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https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Glitter-on-Nail-Polish | How to Apply Glitter on Nail Polish | A glitter manicure is a fun way to spice up your look without too many extra supplies. To start, apply a base coat and a base color as you normally would. Then, apply a second coat of base color. While the polish is still wet, shake glitter onto each nail until they're totally covered. You can use nail art glitter or just regular crafting glitter since either will work fine. Tap the excess glitter off your nails, then wait for the polish to dry completely. Once they're dry, apply 2 layers of clear topcoat to hold the glitter in place. | Clean, trim, and shape your nails. Wipe your nails down with nail polish remover. This will get rid of any old polish, dirt, and oils. Trim your nails down with clippers, then shape them with a file. If you need to, use an orange stick or a cuticle pusher to push back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and base color. Apply a thin layer of base coat to each nail, then let it dry. Follow up with a single coat of your desired nail polish to each nail. Wait for the polish to dry before continuing. Your nail polish can be flat, matte, or pearlescent, but it needs to match the glitter that you will be using. Apply a second coat of nail polish to your first nail. Don't do the other nails just yet. You need the nail polish to be wet in order for the next step to work. If you paint all of the nails now, the polish will dry and the glitter won't stick. Shake some glitter onto your nail. Tilt your nail around as you shake the glitter onto it so that gets evenly coated. Work over a sheet of paper to catch the excess glitter that falls off your nail. You can use nail art glitter, as well as cosmetic-grade glitter or even crafting glitter. If you are using crafting glitter, be sure to use the finest grain you can find. Tap the excess glitter off and let the polish dry. Twist your hand so that your nail is facing the paper. Gently tap your finger with your other finger. This will knock off any loose glitter. Next, flip your finger back over and wait for your nail to dry. This can take a few minutes, so you can move on to your other nails at this point. Repeat the process for your other nails. Work one nail at a time. Apply a thin coat of nail polish, then shake on the glitter. Tap the excess glitter off, then move onto the next nail. Make sure that all of your nails are nails are dry before moving onto the next step. Gently brush the excess glitter off with a soft brush once the polish is dry. Run a soft eyeshadow brush over each nail, starting at the nail bed and finishing past the tip. This will knock off any excess bits of glitter that did not stick and give you a smoother finish. Apply 2 layers of clear top coat, allowing each one to dry in between. Apply a thin layer of clear top coat to each nail. Wait for the top coat to dry, then apply a second layer to each nail. Allow that layer to dry as well. Clean the manicure up. Use a thin brush dipped in nail polish remover to wipe away any nail polish stuck to the skin around your nails. If you notice any roughness along the tips, you can gently sand it away with a nail file. Clean, trim, and file your nails. Wipe your nails down with a gel cleanser first. Trim and shape them as desired with clippers and a nail file. Use an orange stick or a cuticle pusher to push back your cuticles, if needed. Brush on your pre-gel primer and base coat. Apply a thin coat of pre-gel primer and let it air dry for 30 seconds. Brush on a thin layer of gel base coat, then let it cure under a UV lamp for 1 to 2 minutes. If you got any gel base coat onto your skin, be sure to wipe it off with an orange stick before curing it. Apply a thin coat of your desired gel polish and let it cure for 1 to 2 minutes. Don't worry if the polish looks thin now; you will eventually be doing a second coat. Choose a color that is similar to the glitter that you will be using. Brush on another coat of polish, then immediately add the glitter. Apply a thin coat of gel polish to your first nail. While the polish is still tacky, sprinkle your desired glitter over it. Gently pat it down with a fan-shaped brush, then blow off any excess glitter. Don't do the other nails just yet. You can use nail art glitter, cosmetic glitter, or even extra-fine scrapbooking glitter! Cure the polish, then remove the excess glitter. Allow your nail to cure beneath the UV lamp for 1 to 2 minutes. Use an orange stick or a tissue to wipe off any excess glitter. Focus especially on the skin around your nails. Do the rest of your nails, then seal the glitter with clear gel top coat. Apply a medium to thick layer of clear gel top coat to your nail. Allow it to cure beneath the UV lamp for 2 to 3 minutes. The thick top coat will help make your nails smoother. If you want a rough texture, use a thinner layer of gel top coat instead. Wipe your nails with gel cleanser. Gel manicures are usually still tacky after you finish curing them. You can fix this by wiping the nails down with a cotton ball soaked in gel cleanser. File away any roughness on the tips of your nails with a nail file. Clean, cut, and shape your nails. Wipe your nails down with nail polish remover to clean off any existing nail polish, dirt, and oils. Trim and shape your nails with clippers and a nail file. Use an orange stick or a cuticle pusher to push back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and a base color and let them dry. Apply your usual base coat first. Let it dry, then apply 1 to 2 coats of your desired base color. A flat, neutral color, such as buff will work great. You can also go with other colors and finishes as well, including matte and pearlescent. Block off the areas you don't want glittered with pieces of tape. Tap the tape against your skin first to make it less sticky, then lay it down across your nail. You can do it vertically, horizontally, or even diagonally. You can even use multiple strips to create a striped or banded effect! Use circle stickers to create a French tip! For a polka-dot effect, skip the tape and use a tiny brush or a toothpick to make little dots of clear polish instead. Do just one nail for now. Paint a coat of clear polish onto your first nail, then remove the tape. Only do one nail for now. Apply a thin layer of clear nail polish over your first nail, then quickly peel the tape off. The glitter will only stick to the part with the top coat. If you are doing the polka-dot effect, skip this step. Sprinkle loose glitter over the wet polish. You can use special nail art glitter, cosmetic glitter, or even craft glitter. If you choose to use craft glitter, consider getting the finest type you can find; this will give you a smoother look. Wait 1 minute before brushing the excess glitter off. Allow the polish to dry for 1 minute. Next, use the fan brush to gently brush the excess glitter away. Focus on the painted part of the nail that you did not cover with glitter. Repeat the process for the rest of your nails. Remember to work one nail at a time. Apply the clear nail polish, then peel the tape off. Sprinkle the glitter on, pat it in place, wait 1 minute, then brush the excess off. Apply a thin layer of clear top coat over each nail. Be sure to cover the glittered part as well. If you want to, you can use this time to apply tiny nail art gems to complete the look. Be sure to apply them while the top coat is still wet, however, or they won't stick! If you used matte polish as your base coat, you'll need to use a glossy top coat over the glittered part and a matte top coat over the un-glittered (matte) part. Clean your manicure up. If you got any glitter or polish onto your skin, use a brush dipped in nail polish remover to wipe it off. | Clean, trim, and shape your nails. Apply a base coat and base color. Apply a second coat of nail polish to your first nail. Shake some glitter onto your nail. Tap the excess glitter off and let the polish dry. Repeat the process for your other nails. Gently brush the excess glitter off with a soft brush once the polish is dry. Apply 2 layers of clear top coat, allowing each one to dry in between. Clean the manicure up. Clean, trim, and file your nails. Brush on your pre-gel primer and base coat. Apply a thin coat of your desired gel polish and let it cure for 1 to 2 minutes. Brush on another coat of polish, then immediately add the glitter. Cure the polish, then remove the excess glitter. Do the rest of your nails, then seal the glitter with clear gel top coat. Wipe your nails with gel cleanser. Clean, cut, and shape your nails. Apply a base coat and a base color and let them dry. Block off the areas you don't want glittered with pieces of tape. Paint a coat of clear polish onto your first nail, then remove the tape. Sprinkle loose glitter over the wet polish. Wait 1 minute before brushing the excess glitter off. Repeat the process for the rest of your nails. Apply a thin layer of clear top coat over each nail. Clean your manicure up. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-an-Older-Dog-Mentally-Active | How to Keep an Older Dog Mentally Active | To keep your older dog mentally active, try taking it to new places so it can experience different sights and smells. Even just walking it on a different route every day can help stimulate your dog's brain. On days where it's too cold or rainy to go outside, try teaching your dog new tricks to stimulate it, like playing dead, spinning in a circle, or giving high fives. When you can't be at home, leave a few toys and puzzle feeders out to keep your dog busy and entertained until you get back. | Make sure your dog gets lots of interaction. Dogs that are left alone all the time will not be able to stay mentally healthy. A dog that does not have a lot of social interaction can lose its mental acuity because it doesn't exercise its brain. Dogs are meant to have social interaction, as they are pack animals, and they need it to avoid becoming sad, lonely, and destructive. Interaction can come in a lot of forms. It could mean taking your dog for a walk, playing catch, or simply giving it love and attention. The interaction doesn't have to always come from you. If you know you are going to be gone all day, for example, you can take your dog to a doggy daycare. This will give your dog lots of interaction. Some dogs benefit from living in a household with multiple dogs. Having more than one dog at home can give your dog lots of positive interaction while you are away. Play with your dog. There are a wide variety of games that you can play with your dog that will stimulate its brain. Even common games, such as tug-o-war or catch, can give it a lot of stimulation and keep it mentally active. Other games you can play include: Work on advanced training, such as teaching your dog to play dead. Hide your dog's favorite toy and have it find it. Train your dog to identify its toys by name and to get specific toys when you ask for them by name. Stimulate your dog's mind. Toys, such as puzzles, can stimulate your dog while you are away or unable to directly play with the dog. These puzzles use treats or regular dog food as motivation for the dog to complete the challenge. Buy a food puzzle that requires your dog to complete tasks in order to get food. There are a wide variety of these puzzles sold at pet stores or online. The added benefit of these puzzles is that they can be used to slow down your dog's eating. In order to keep your dog's mind stimulated, switch out your dog's toys and puzzles on a regular basis. New toys mean new stimulation and fun. Take your dog somewhere new. If your dog likes to be outside, you should take your older dog to explore a new place. New sights and smells can be invigorating to a dog that only gets to go to the same places all of the time. Taking your dog to a new place doesn't mean that you need to go a long distance. For example, if you normally walk your dog on the same route every day, try switching up that route. New sights and smells in the neighborhood can be just as exciting as the sights and smells a long distance from home. Let your dog meet other dogs. If your dog generally gets along with other dogs, it can be very exciting and fun for it to meet a new dog. This can be stimulating and positive for an older dog. The easiest way for your dog to meet other dogs is at a dog park. While you won't be able to easily control what dogs your dog interacts with, your dog will likely get to meet a lot of other dogs. You can also make a date to meet up with a friend who has a dog. Perhaps you have a friend that has a young dog that needs to be socialized with other dogs. Let your older dog have a fun experience while also helping out a friend with their dog. Teach your dog to do tricks. If you are looking for new ways to stimulate your dog, then you should consider teaching it something new. With rewards-based training you can get your dog to do a wide variety of tricks. Some tricks you might like your dog to do include playing dead, spinning in a circle, or giving you a high five. Teaching your dog to do tricks will take time and concentration from both you and your dog. The key is repetition and positive reinforcement. Use food as a motivation. If your dog is lethargic and unmotivated to play, you can use food to change that. Most dogs will do just about anything to get a treat, including playing or exercising with you. Be careful that you don't give your dog too many treats. Giving treats constantly will not be good for your dog's health, so when you give healthy treats or pieces of kibble you should keep that in mind at meal time. A dog that has gotten a lot of treats should get fewer calories at meal time. Feed your dog a diet high in antioxidants. Giving your dog a diet high in antioxidants can help its brain activity over the course of its life. Just as in humans, antioxidants given to dogs increase their ability to learn and hold information. Dog foods that are high quality and balanced should have a good amount of antioxidants. If you are feeding a low quality food, however, it may not be high in antioxidants. Consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to make sure that your dog's food has enough antioxidants. If it does not, you should switch foods. Give your dog dietary supplements. There are some dietary supplements that can help your dog's mental acuity. For example, adding vitamin E, vitamin C, Vitamin A, and carotenoids to your dog's diet can improve your dog's mental acuity. You should consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements. This is especially true if your dog is on any kind of medication. Talk to your dog's veterinarian about selegiline and clomipramine. These 2 medications may help to improve blood flow to the brain in older dogs. Talk to your dog's veterinarian to see if either of these medications might be options for your dog. Selegiline is prescribed for canine Cushing's and cognitive dysfunction. Clomipramine is prescribed for anxiety and behavioral issues in dogs, such as excessive barking. | Make sure your dog gets lots of interaction. Play with your dog. Stimulate your dog's mind. Take your dog somewhere new. Let your dog meet other dogs. Teach your dog to do tricks. Use food as a motivation. Feed your dog a diet high in antioxidants. Give your dog dietary supplements. Talk to your dog's veterinarian about selegiline and clomipramine. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Register-to-Vote-in-the-United-States | How to Register to Vote in the United States | To become a registered voter, make sure you're a US citizen who will be 18 years or older by election day. If you want to vote in a specific election, look up the registration deadline on USA.gov and apply before then. Check online to see if your state offers registration through an official website. If not, register by sending in a National Mail Voter Registration form or signing up in person at a local DMV or similar public facility. Make sure to fill out the Federal Postcard Application if you plan to vote absentee. | Look up the deadline. Many states set a deadline for registrations by mail or online, which you can look up here. However, many states allow you to vote even if the registration deadline has passed, or allow you to register in person at the county office at any time. You can always show up to the polls and cast a provisional ballot, even if you don't think your registration went through. In most states, the mail-in deadline is based on the postmark (the date you brought it to the post office). Check your eligibility. In order to register to vote in the United States, you must: Be a US citizen Be at least 18 years old by election day. 16- and 17- year olds may be able to register early or even vote in primary elections depending on state law and party rules. Intend to live in the state long-term. Some states require you to have lived in the state for the past 30 days. Meet state criminal record requirements. Many convicted felons incorrectly assume they cannot vote, but only three states remove voting rights permanently for all felons. Look up your state law for details. Register online if you can. As of June 2016, 31 states and the District of Columbia allow residents to register to vote online. Check this table for a link to your state's registration website, if available. In most cases, you will need a valid driver's license or state ID card for the state you are registering in, or the last four digits of your social security number. Even if your state does not have online registration, you may be able to register online using a third-party organization such as Rock the Vote. Some U.S. non-state territories have their own registration websites not listed on the chart. Search for your territory's election committee website. Look for alternatives. If you cannot register online or do not wish to, try one of the methods below instead: Anyone can register in person. This is required if you live in Wyoming or New Hampshire, or in the territories of American Samoa, Puerto Rico, Guam, or the U.S. Virgin Islands and wish to vote in person. You can also contact your local election office in these areas and request an absentee ballot so you can vote by mail. Uniformed service members and US citizens living abroad can register using the Federal Postcard Application (FPCA). In North Dakota, no registration is needed. Just bring an ID to the polls on Election Day. Anyone who does not fall into one of the exceptions above can register by mail. Continue to the next step for instructions. Mail in your National Mail Voter Registration form. Download this form in the language you read best. Print it out and use it as follows: Use the Application Instructions to fill out the Voter Registration Application. Look up your state in the State Instructions section for additional information, and to find the mailing address for your state. Mail the application section to the mailing address listed for your state, with correct postage, or deliver it in person to your local election office. Register in person at designated locations in your state. Anyone eligible to vote can register in person at the following public facilities with the same information: Your state's voter registration office Election offices The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (in most states) Armed Service recruitment centers Public assistance facilities, such as a SNAP benefits center State-funded disability centers Fill out the Federal Postcard Application (FPCA) to vote absentee. If you're active-duty military or are overseas for other reasons during the election and you're not yet registered, you can still register to vote by filling out the FPCA form and requesting an absentee ballot. Fill out this form to register if you're: Active-duty military or a dependent A member of the Merchant Marine Service A member of the Public Health Service Commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration A US citizen living overseas (temporarily or permanently) Consider stating a party preference. In most states, voters have the option to register with a party affiliation. To find out whether this affects how you can vote, look up your state in the national registration form. This only affects primary elections, in which a political party elects a candidate to run in the general election. In many states, you must declare a party affiliation in advance to participate in that party's primary. Wait to receive your voter's card in the mail. You should receive a voter's card in the mail shortly after you send your paperwork or submit the online application. This should come with an address for your polling place, and a sample ballot describing the candidates and issues you will vote on. You will not need a registration card to vote in most states. It's still handy to have, because it will tell you where to go to vote. Contact the local elections office for specific questions. If you have minority language needs or special concerns due to a disability, contact your local elections office for information about voting equipment, materials in a specific language, details on accessing the polling location, or any other questions you may have before the big day. Remember your ID. Some states require you to bring a photo ID to the polls every time you vote. If you registered using the national form, in any state or territory, you must show proof of identification the first time you vote. This can include a current photo ID or a bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government document that shows your name and address. Update your information when it changes. You only need to register again if you change your address or name, or if you would like to switch political party affiliation. In most states, you can change this information online or by filling out a new national form. If you have any questions, contact your local election office. If you recently moved, allow enough time to get a new driver's license or other ID. The address and name on your ID must match the information in your registration. If you are temporarily in another state or abroad, even for a long-term stay, you can vote in your old precinct without registering again. Request an absentee ballot and mail it in before the deadline. | Look up the deadline. Check your eligibility. Register online if you can. Look for alternatives. Mail in your National Mail Voter Registration form. Register in person at designated locations in your state. Fill out the Federal Postcard Application (FPCA) to vote absentee. Consider stating a party preference. Wait to receive your voter's card in the mail. Contact the local elections office for specific questions. Remember your ID. Update your information when it changes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Eyes-Stop-Hurting | How to Make Your Eyes Stop Hurting | If your eyes are hurting, there are a few simple remedies you can try at home to alleviate the pain. Apply a cold compress, which can help soothe swollen blood vessels. If you're suffering pain due to sensitivity to light, try resting for an hour or 2. Cover your eyes or wear a sleeping mask to keep the light out. You can also get rid of pain caused by dry eyes with eye drops. Just apply a few eye drops regularly to keep them moist. Remember to see a doctor if your pain is severe or unbearable, or if it doesn't go away after 1 or 2 days. | Flush your eyes out with eyewash. If you have not already done so, rinse your eyes out with a commercial eyewash or water if that's what you have on hand. f the problem is as a result of a contaminant such as a piece of dirt, this may be enough to solve the problem. Make sure the water and/or solution is at a temperature of between 60 °F (15.6 °C) and 100°F. If using water, use sterile water or bottled water. However, precautions should be taken to ensure that bacteria, other contaminants, or irritants are not introduced to the eyes, which are quite vulnerable to damage and infection. If you need to wash your eye because it came into contact with a contaminant, call poison control (800) 222-1222 and seek medical attention immediately in the case of a chemical burn or if another contaminant contacts your eye. You will be instructed as to whether you should wash your eye. Note the following guidelines for eye washing: For mildly irritating chemicals, like hand soap or shampoo, rinse for five minutes. For moderate-to-severe irritants, like hot peppers, rinse for at least 20 minutes. For non-penetrating corrosives such as acids (like battery acid), rinse for 20 minutes. Call poison control and seek medical attention. For penetrating corrosives such as alkalis (like bleach or drain cleaner), rinse for at least 60 minutes. Call poison control and seek medical attention. Try using over-the-counter eye drops. These are designed to remove itchiness and redness and relieve dryness in the eyes by replacing the layer of tear film that helps keep eyes moist and tears spread evenly throughout surface of eye. Artificial tear drops are available over the counter and in a wide assortment of brands. Trial and error or consultation with your doctor is usually the only way to find the best brand of artificial tears for your particular eyes. In some cases, a combination of a few brands may be even be necessary. In case of chronic dry eyes, artificial tears must be used even if the eyes are symptom free. Directions vary from brand to brand so follow the instructions on the label. Artificial tears can only provide supplemental care and not a substitute for natural tears.These are especially useful for anyone suffering from dry eyes. Preservative free drops reduce the risk of allergy or sensitivity of already dry eyes from further irritation. Over the counter eye drops are administered about four to six times daily or as needed. Rest your eyes. Give your eyes a break and some much-needed by avoiding sources of large amounts of light. You can do this either by sitting in a dark room or by covering your eyes with an eye mask that some use to help sleep. Even an hour or two of darkness will greatly decrease the pain from overexposure to light. If your lifestyle allows it, try to avoid using computer screens or televisions for at least a day. Eye strain from consistently working on a computer, or watching TV can cause dryness and itchiness in the eyes. Most people will feel strain after three to four hours of sustained screen time. See Method 2 for more proactive tips. Use a compress. Cold compresses can be an effective way to get fast relief from eye pain. because it can help to constrict the blood vessels in your eye, which make your eye feel less inflamed. It also helps to treat the pain caused by the injury because it reduces the stimulation of nerve endings in your eye. You can make your own compresses: Get clean spoon and a cup of cold water. Make sure all instruments are cleaned properly as well as your hands to avoid introduction of any bacteria into your eye. Place the spoon in the cup and leave it for about three minutes. Then, remove and place the back of the spoon on your eye. Repeat this method with the other eye. A spoon is useful because metal retains the cold much longer than towels and fabric. Put some ice in a bag or wrap with a clean towel. Gently put your compress on one eye. Leave it there for five minutes. Repeat process with the other eye for five minutes. Do not apply ice directly to your eye as it could damage both your eye and the delicate skin around your eyes. Hold the compress against your eye for minimum of five minutes to a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes. Do not press too hard. Take a break from contact lenses. If you wear contacts, remove them and put on your glasses for a little while. Contacts can cause dryness and itchiness if they are not lubricated enough or if they are not positioned correctly in your eye. After removing the contact, check for dirt or for a rip. Replace the contact if anything seems to be wrong. For contact lens wearers there are special types of lenses that are more "breathable" and allow eyes to dry out less than others. Ask your professional for examples or explanations of these. Contact your doctor. If the pain is so severe that it is hard to function, immediately consult a doctor. Intense eye pain is not something to be taken lightly and can be a symptom of a deeper problem. It is better to play it safe by consulting your physician. Moreover, if the problem has persisted for multiple weeks or even days, the problem is likely deeper than simply a piece of dirt in the eye. Your doctor can help you diagnose the problem and suggest a proper course of treatment. If you can see that your actual eyeball has been scratched or if you experience additional symptoms, like visual changes, vomiting, headache or nausea, then you should immediately visit the emergency room. Observe for eyestrain. Think of how much time you spend staring at a screen everyday. Eye strain from consistently working on a computer, or watching T.V. can cause dryness and itchiness in the eyes. Often eye strain is due to decreased blinking, focusing on a screen that is too close (less than 20 inches away) or not wearing prescribed lenses when they are in fact needed. Eyestrain is on the rise due to the proliferation of screens, including televisions and computers but also more recently, smartphones. Symptoms included a itchy and dry eyes, pain, a sensation of a foreign object being in the eyes, and the feeling of tired eyes. You can take both treatment and preventive measures to deal with eyestrain. Know whether you have an infection. It's possible that your eye pain is due to an infection, such as conjunctivitis, known more commonly as pink eye. If the eye looks pink and slightly cloudy, it is possible that you have contracted pink eye. Symptoms range from eye discharge (pus or increase in tears), pain with light, and fever depending on the agent. Pink eye is a common, yet troublesome disease that can either be treated at home or with antibiotics from a doctor depending on the severity and type of infection. Another possible infection is a stye, which is an infection of the eyelid caused by bacteria from eye makeup or contact lenses blocking the glands of the eyelid. Symptoms are pain with blinking, pain with light, red eyes along with eye pain. Typically, hot compresses for 20 minutes four to six times daily can remove the blockage Determine whether you have allergies. One of the most common conditions causing eye pain and irritation is allergies. If you have allergies, your body treats a normally harmless substance as a threat and responds by releasing excess histamine. This will cause your skin to itch, your throat to swell, and your eyes to become itchy and watery. Itchy eyes are usually not the only symptom of allergies. If your eye pain is accompanied by itchiness in other parts of your body, sneezing or a runny nose, you likely have allergies. Most people suffering from allergies notice that these symptoms are more pronounced during spring or autumn seasons where the pollen count is usually highest. Others may find that there allergies are related to certain animals, such as cats or dogs. Confirm the diagnosis with a physician. It is important to note that your eye care professional be informed of any eye pain to properly diagnose and treat your condition. If your symptoms worsen or become increasingly bothersome, contact your doctor immediately to avoid any serious complications. Take breaks from screens. Avoid working on your computer or watching television for a little while. Instead of watching T.V., try reading a book instead. Force your eyes to focus on something that's not a screen. If you must work with computers for your work, be sure to take plenty of breaks throughout the day. Try the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take your eyes off the computer screen and look at something that is 20 feet (6.1 m) away for twenty seconds. If you're working, do other work during this time, such as making a phone call or filing something. If you can, try to get up and move around for a bit. Lean back and close your eyes for a few minutes. Blink more. Blinking produces tears that refresh and rehydrate your eyes. Most people do not blink frequently enough when working at a computer, which can cause dry eyes. Because many people blink less than normal when working at a computer, dry eyes can result from prolonged computer use. Try to make a concerted effort to be more aware of how much you blink and to do it more often. Consider lighting and contrast. Lower the brightness on your screen. The default setting for many computers is much higher than it needs to be and can cause unnecessary strain. Use a low setting in dark rooms and a higher setting in bright rooms. This way, the intensity of light entering your eye will be consistent. Check the glare on your computer screen as well. Too much glare can cause eye strain because it causes your eyes to have to work harder to see things on the computer. To check this, turn the screen off. This will help you see the reflected light and notice the extent of the glare. When watching TV, keep the room softly lit by using one or two lamps is better for your eyes than having a big contrast between a bright TV screen and darker surrounding environment. Do not look at your phone or work on your computer before bed. The bright screens in contrast with the dark room will cause a large amount of strain on your eyes. This will dry them out further as well as make it hard for you to fall asleep. Adjust fonts and contrast settings on documents. Change the font size setting or zoom in to read documents on the computer. Reading words which are too small will force you to strain your eyes to focus. Find a font size that doesn't force you to move your eyes closer to the screen. Notice as well the contrast setting on your documents and make needed adjustments. Black print on a white background is the most comforting contrast to read documents in. If you spend much of your day reading documents with unusual color contrasts, try to change to black and white. Consider the position of the screen. Be sure to sit far enough away from the screen. Position your computer 20 to 24 inches (50.8 to 61.0 cm) away with the center of the screen 10 to 15 degrees below your eyes. Sit up straight and try to keep this posture through the day. If you wear bifocals, you may have a tendency to tilt your head backwards so you can see through the lower part of your glasses. To adjust for this, you could buy new glasses just for computer work or try lowering your monitor so you don't have to tilt your head back. Use artificial tear drops. Artificial tears, which are available over-the-counter at any drugstore or pharmacy, can help relieve the dry eyes that result from too much screen time. Try to find a lubricating drop that has no preservatives; you can use this as often as you like. If you use a drop with preservative, use to a maximum of four times each day. If you're unsure of which artificial tear drops are best for you and your eyes, consult your doctor. Think about purchasing computer eyewear. There are many eyewear products products which can help those who must look at screens all day avoid eye strain. Many of these change the color of the screen to be more comforting on your eyes. Most lenses in glasses and contacts are designed for reading print and not for screens, so getting something suited for computer work may be a good option for you. This step, however, should be a last resort. The best way to avoid eyestrain is of course to avoid screens. If you absolutely must consistently work with screens, consider purchasing eyewear designed specifically for computer work. Be sure that your contact or eyeglass prescriptions are correct and up to date. Incorrect prescriptions can lead to more work by your eyes, increasing the incidence of eyestrain. Speak with your eye care professional if you are having difficulty with your vision. Determine the type and severity of the pink eye. By understanding your symptoms, you should have a better idea of the severity of the pink eye. Symptoms include redness or swelling of the eye, blurred vision, eye pain, gritty feeling in the eyes, increased tearing, itching of the eye, photophobia or sensitivity to light. Viral pink eye results from a viral infection, such as influenza, and unfortunately has no quick cure. Most people who develop this type of pink eye would have already been suffering from a flu or cold. The best option in treating this form of pink eye is to simply use general home treatments to ease some of the pain. This type of pink eye will generally clear on its own in two to three days but last up to two weeks. Bacterial pink eye is generally caused by the same bacteria that is responsible for strep throat and is the most common type of pink eye. This bacteria lives on the surface of the skin and causes infections due to unhygienic practices such as frequent eye rubbing, improper hand washing or unsanitary contact lens use. This type of pink eye is distinguished by thick, yellow discharge from the eye and can result in rapid vision loss if not treated in a timely manner with antibiotics. Other potential types and causes of pink eye include foreign objects in the eye, chemical exposure, allergies, sexually transmitted infections (chlamydia and gonorrhea). Get the proper treatment. If you're interested in getting rid of pink eye fast, then consult Get Rid of Pink Eye Fast. In general, it's important that you treat the pink eye in a manner that address the type and cause of it. It's best to consult your doctor as to what type of treatment is best for your case. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with antibiotics in the form of eye drops. These drops require prescription from your doctor and are not available over the counter. Some examples of antibiotic eyedrops include Bacitracin (AK-Tracin), Chloramphenicol (Chloroptic), Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan), and others. Always complete the full duration of antibiotic treatment, even though symptoms should subside with in three to five days. If the infection is due to chlamydia, then the doctor will prescribe Azithromycin, Erythromycin or Doxycycline. If the infection is due to gonorrhea, then a Ceftriaxone Intramuscular injection will be completed along with Azithromycin orally. Viral conjunctivitis usually goes away on its own after two to three days and does not need antibiotics or other prescription medication. Treat allergic conjunctivitis with allergy medications, such as antihistamines (like over-the-counter Benadryl). In addition, most eye drops contain a compound known as tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride, which works as a vasoconstrictor and therefore constricts the eye's superficial blood vessels and makes them less noticeable. In some cases, allergic reactions may go away on their own if you avoid contact with the allergen. Clean the eye on a regular basis. Flush the affected eye with cool water regularly in order to stop the infection from becoming worse. Use either a warm cloth or towel to gently rub the area around the eye. Avoid spreading pink eye. Stop the spread of pink eye regularly washing your hands and by avoiding touching your eye. Pink eye is an extremely contagious disease and can be spread easily through hand-to-hand contact. By washing your hands and not touching your eyes, you will lessen the chance that those you come in contact with will contract pink eye. Additionally, let people know that they should be sure to avoid touching their eyes after contact with you. Consult your physician. Call a doctor if the pink eye worsens or is causing you considerable pain. In addition to more accurately diagnosing the type of pink eye, the doctor can prescribe antibiotics and other prescription treatment that are not available over-the-counter. Be sure to follow the doctor's instructions regarding type, dosage and frequency of medication in order to maximize the medication's benefits and effectively treat pink eye. Avoid contact with the allergen. If your eye pain is coming from allergies, your best bet is to remove the allergens or remove yourself from environments in which the allergens are present. If you do not know what this allergen is, consult a doctor. They will be able to conduct a skin test which will accurately tell them what your body is allergic to. Seasonal allergies are common and usually are at their worst during springtime when many plants bloom and release pollen. Look up the pollen count for your area online and stay inside as much as possible on days when the pollen count is high. Avoid mowing the lawn or other yard chores that stir up more pollen. Cat and dog allergies are another common allergen. Direct contact with cats or dogs will affect people with these allergies and can continue to affect them days after initial contact. Food allergies are less common but can cause severe swelling and itchiness of the eyes. Food allergies tend to be more severe so this will also be accompanied by an upset stomach or itchiness of the skin or throat. Use a hypertonic sodium chloride solution. This can help to bring down swelling and pain in the eye. Hypertonic sodium chloride is available over-the-counter and comes in the form of ophthalmic solutions or ointment and it is a good alternative to ophthalmic decongestants. This medication can help to decrease pain, and can also absorb excess fluid in your eye because it contains a high level of salt. Good options include: Muro 128 5% ophthalmic solution : Apply one to two drops to the affected eye every four hours, but do not use it for more than 72 hours in a row. Muro 128 5% ointment : To use this ointment, pull down the lower lid of the affected eye and apply a small ribbon of the ointment to the inside of the eyelid, once daily or as directed by physician. Try an ophthalmic lubricant. Ophthalmic lubricants are most used for corneal ulcerations that occur because your body does not produce enough tear fluid. These lubricants help to moisten and refresh the eye. Most of these lubricants are OTC medications, including Visine Tears Dry Eye Relief, Visine Tears Long Lasting Dry Eye Relief, Tears Naturale Forte, and Tears Plus. Consult the instructions on the packaging of any ophthalmic lubricant before use. Follow the appropriate amount and frequency of dosing. If you can avoid choosing a lubricant with preservatives as some people are sensitive to these preservatives and experience increased redness, burning or itching. Consult your doctor. Your doctor will be able to pinpoint the cause of the allergic reaction and can prescribe more powerful medicine to help lessen your symptoms. If your doctor discovers signs of allergies, he will likely refer you to an allergist. Allergists specialize in treating patients suffering from allergies. | Flush your eyes out with eyewash. Try using over-the-counter eye drops. Rest your eyes. Use a compress. Take a break from contact lenses. Contact your doctor. Observe for eyestrain. Know whether you have an infection. Determine whether you have allergies. Confirm the diagnosis with a physician. Take breaks from screens. Blink more. Consider lighting and contrast. Adjust fonts and contrast settings on documents. Consider the position of the screen. Use artificial tear drops. Think about purchasing computer eyewear. Determine the type and severity of the pink eye. Get the proper treatment. Clean the eye on a regular basis. Avoid spreading pink eye. Consult your physician. Avoid contact with the allergen. Use a hypertonic sodium chloride solution. Try an ophthalmic lubricant. Consult your doctor. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Glue-Gun | How to Use a Glue Gun | To use a glue gun, slide a fresh glue stick into the back of the gun, then plug the cord into the nearest outlet. Give the gun a few minutes to warm up so the glue can soften. Then, aim the nozzle close to the item you're gluing and lightly squeeze the trigger to release the melted glue. You can apply the glue smoothly in dots, swirls or straight lines. A little goes a long way, so use the minimum amount of glue required. Let the glue dry for several minutes, and don't forget to unplug the gun when you're finished! | Consult the owner's manual. Go over the owner's manual for information about safely operating your glue gun. Take note of the different components of the glue gun and how they're supposed to function. The instruction manual should be able to tell you whether your glue gun will begin heating up automatically or needs to be turned on and off, how long it typically takes to warm up, and what materials it's recommended for. Be sure to read through the safety warnings carefully to reduce the risk of accident or injury while using the glue gun. Your manual should also specify exactly what size or type of glue stick you'll need. Inspect the glue gun for signs of damage. Before plugging in or using the glue gun, look over the body to check for cracking, splitting, chipping or any other indications of damage. Make sure you also take a look at the electrical cord to see if there's any frayed or broken wires. It can be very dangerous to operate a glue under under these conditions. Because of their electrical and heating elements, a malfunctioning glue gun can be extremely hazardous to use. Make sure the nozzle is free of old glue residue. There should be a clear path for the melted glue to emerge from the tip of the glue gun. If necessary, remove the nozzle and wipe it down with a piece of aluminum foil to take off dried glue, or use a toothpick to clean out the hole. Your glue gun should always be free of excess residue from past projects before each use. Always make sure the glue gun is unplugged before handling or removing the nozzle. Never use water to clean a glue gun. In the worst case scenario, you may simply have to wait until the glue gun warms up enough for the old stuck-on glue to drip off. Load a glue stick into the back of the gun. Take a fresh glue stick and place one end into the circular opening in the back of the gun. Slide it in until it stops. If there is already a partially used glue stick in the gun, finish that stick before inserting a new one. Your glue gun does not need to be loaded with a new stick for each project. Most glue sticks are uniformly sized and made to fit any glue gun model. Check the instructions or specifications of your glue gun when buying replacement glue sticks just to be on the safe side. Plug the glue gun’s cord into an electrical outlet. Locate an electric outlet in the wall nearest to where you'll be working on your project. Stick the glue gun's electric cord into the socket. The glue gun's heating element will automatically begin to warm the glue stick inside, so don't touch the nozzle or leave the glue gun unattended once it has been plugged in. Ensure you're your glue gun is upright in its stand to avoid accidents. Again, check the electrical cord for any signs of damage or deterioration before plugging it in. An cord in bad condition can present a possible fire risk. Some glue gun models are cordless, giving you more freedom to choose where and how you work. If you can't find one of these, try using an extension cord to increase your range within your work area. Wait for the glue to heat up. Give the glue gun a couple minutes to soften the glue. Once it's been sufficiently melted , the glue will ooze out when you pull the trigger. For most glue guns, the heating process will take around two minutes. Larger and industrial-grade glue guns may require up to five minutes to heat the glue enough to make it easily dispensable. Some glue guns will have on/off switches, while others won't. If your model does, it will need to be placed in the “on” position before it will begin heating up the glue. Otherwise, it will start warming as soon as it is plugged in. Rest the glue gun on the wire support stand at its base when it's not in use. Never lay an active glue gun on its side. Lightly squeeze the trigger to release the melted glue. Aim the nozzle of the glue gun downwards and place it close the item you'll be gluing. Gently squeeze the trigger of the gun until melted glue begins to emerge from the nozzle. Glue directly onto the item's surface, leaving the nozzle in contact. Apply the glue smoothly in dots, swirls or straight lines. Place a piece of scrap cardboard or foil beneath the object you're gluing to catch stray strands of glue. Try gluing a few pieces of throwaway material to get a feel for your glue gun before using it for projects that require precision. If possible, wear a pair of gloves while working with hot glue to protect your hands from the heat and mess. Only use as much glue as you need. Start with a modest amount of glue and then determine whether you need more. A little glue goes a long way. The melted glue will flow fairly quickly once the trigger is pulled, and it can be easy to use too much if you're not careful. Avoid saturating the item you're gluing or applying the glue in messy globs. Glue can set up rather quickly, so only use as much as you need as you go. Attaching Styrofoam letters to diorama will only take a small dot, for instance, while you might want to add more glue in a zig-zag or spiral pattern to securely hold objects with large surface areas or heavy parts. Hot glue is meant to be applied somewhat thickly, but using an excessive amount can cause softer surfaces to grow stiff and may be unsightly. Chances are that if you use too much, at some point you'll need to know how to remove hot glue. Wait for the glue to dry. Remove the nozzle from the item you just finished gluing. If the glue gun model you're using has an on/off switch, flip it to the “off” position and set it aside. Allow the glue to dry for several minutes. The bond between the glued surfaces will solidify as the glue sets up. It can be helpful to hold your items with your hands or a clamp as the glue sets for a tight bond. Keep a glue gun handy for basic repairs. Make a home in your toolbox for a glue gun when performing minor indoor repair jobs. Hot glue works especially well on wood and plastic objects in cool, dry conditions. Whether it's securing a bit of loose panelling or sticking your child's toys back together, glue guns create a fairly strong, flexible bond that will serve just about any general adhesive task. You should not try to hold moving parts or heavy, precarious objects together using a glue gun. Big jobs should always be carried out by contractors using the proper tools. Try a glue gun for creative crafts. The next time you're helping your kids with a school project or putting together homemade holiday decorations, reach for the hot glue gun instead of the Elmer's. It's better for larger variety of surfaces, goes on cleaner and won't cause paper to wrinkle and colors to bleed the way some craft glues do. A small dab of hot glue will help your DIY creations hold up longer. It is difficult to remove hot glue once it has set up. Make sure that the measurements, angles and dimensions of your craft project are perfect before gluing it down. Make alterations to clothing. Hem an ill-fitting pair of pants with a ring of hot glue, or use it to reattach a button that's popped off. Unlike many types of bonding materials, hot glue is actually quite successful on fabrics. It will work best, however, on parts of clothing like buttons, zippers and other functional features. Though it might not provide the permanency of stitching or tailoring, gluing will do the trick for small alterations if you have no other alternative. Repeated washings will eventually deteriorate glue that is used on clothing, especially in warm water. Use hot glue to secure patches, rhinestones and other accessories to clothing. Use a glue gun on delicate surfaces. Because of its thick, gel-like consistency, hot glue works better for sticking thin, easily damaged surfaces together than more liquid adhesives like paste and even superglue. Watery glues can be difficult to apply, require longer to take effect and have a higher chance of damaging sensitive materials than hot glue. Hot glue is also versatile, and will often hold together temperamental objects that don't take well to other types of adhesives. Just make sure any delicate parts are aligned before application. Apply a small amount of glue when working with delicate materials to keep from ruining it. Hot glue works on lace, wicker, paper, cotton and even confectionary items like those used to make candy arrangements and gingerbread houses. | Consult the owner's manual. Inspect the glue gun for signs of damage. Make sure the nozzle is free of old glue residue. Load a glue stick into the back of the gun. Plug the glue gun’s cord into an electrical outlet. Wait for the glue to heat up. Lightly squeeze the trigger to release the melted glue. Only use as much glue as you need. Wait for the glue to dry. Keep a glue gun handy for basic repairs. Try a glue gun for creative crafts. Make alterations to clothing. Use a glue gun on delicate surfaces. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Compress-Photos | How to Compress Photos | To compress a photo, use your web browser to go to imagecompressor.com, which will let you compress up to 20 images at a time. Once you're there, click “Upload Files” near the top of the page. In the window that pops up, select the photos you want to compress and click “Open” to upload them to the Image Compressor website. Then, select a photo and drag the “Quality” slider up or down to increase or decrease the photo's compression. When you've compressed your image to your liking, click “Apply,” then “Download All” to have your photos downloaded to your computer as a ZIP folder. If you don't want to use a website, try using the Photos program on Windows or the Preview app on Macs. | Open the Image Compressor website. Go to https://imagecompressor.com/ in your computer's web browser. This website allows you to compress up to 20 images at once, and you can control the level of compression on each photo. Click UPLOAD FILES. It's a teal button near the top of the page. Clicking it prompts a File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac) window to open. Select photos to upload. Go to the location of the photos you want to compress, then hold down Ctrl (Windows) or ⌘ Command (Mac) while clicking each photo you want to upload. You can upload up to 20 photos at a time. Click Open. It's in the bottom-right corner of the window. Doing so uploads the photos to the Image Compressor website. Select a photo. Click one of the photos in the website's list of thumbnails to select it. Adjust the photo's compression. Scroll down to view the photo's uncompressed version on the left compared with its compressed version on the right, then drag up or down the "Quality" slider that's on the right side of the page to decrease or increase the photo's compression. You should see the quality of the photo on the right side change to reflect your compression a few seconds after you adjust the quality. If you're planning to upload your images, make sure to check the file size the website uses. Files that are too small often look pixelated, and files that are too large can slow the website down. Click APPLY. It's below the "Quality" slider. Doing so applies your compression to the photo. Adjust the compression of other photos if necessary. While Image Compressor will apply a certain level of compression to each photo depending on the photos' individual sizes, you can apply your own compression to each photo by selecting it, dragging up or down the "Quality" slider, and clicking APPLY. Click DOWNLOAD ALL. It's a button below the list of photos near the top of the page. Doing so packs all of the compressed photos into a ZIP folder and then downloads the ZIP folder onto your computer. Extract the downloaded ZIP folder. To view the photos' actual extracted sizes, you'll need to unzip them from the ZIP folder. Go to the ZIP folder's download location, then do the following: Windows — Double-click the ZIP folder, click Extract at the top of the folder, click Extract all , and click Extract when prompted. Mac — Double-click the ZIP folder, then wait for the folder to finish extracting. Find the photo you want to compress. Go to the folder location of the photo that you want to use. Open the photo in Photos. If the Photos program is your Windows default for viewing photos, simply double-clicking the photo will accomplish this. If Photos isn't your computer's default photo-viewing app, right-click the photo, select Open with , and click Photos in the pop-out menu. Click ⋯. It's in the top-right corner of the Photos window. A drop-down menu will appear. Click Resize. This option is in the drop-down menu. Doing so opens a pop-up window. If you don't see Resize in this menu, the photo cannot be compressed any further via the Photos app. Try using the Image Compressor website. Select a size. Click one of the size letters (e.g., S for "small", M for "medium") in the pop-up window. Clicking a letter prompts a "Save As" window to open. You can only select a letter that's smaller than your photo's current size, so S may be the only available size. Enter a file name. Type whatever you want to name the compressed version of the photo into the "File name" text box. You should always avoid replacing the uncompressed photo with the compressed photo, so name the compressed photo something other than its default name. Select a save location. Click a folder location in the left-hand sidebar to select the folder as your compressed file's save location. Click Save. It's in the bottom-right corner of the window. Your compressed photo will be saved in your selected file location. Find the photo you want to compress. Go to the folder location of the photo that you want to use. Select the photo. Click the photo you want to compress to do so. Click File. It's in the upper-left corner of the screen. A drop-down menu will appear. Select Open With. This option is in the File drop-down menu. Selecting it prompts a pop-out menu. Click Preview. It's in the pop-out menu. Your photo will open in Preview. Click File. This is in the upper-left side of the screen. A drop-down menu will appear. Click Export…. It's in the File drop-down menu. Doing so opens a new window. Enter a name. In the "Name" text field near the top of the window, type in whatever title you want to use for your image. By default, the compressed image will have the same name as the uncompressed version of the image. Select a save location. Click the "Where" drop-down box, then click the folder into which you want to save your compressed image (e.g., Desktop ). Change the image to JPEG format if necessary. If the box to the right of the "Format" heading says anything other than JPEG , click the box, then click JPEG in the resulting drop-down menu. Adjust the compression quality. Click and drag the "Quality" slider to the left to lower the image's quality. Click Save. It's in the bottom-right corner of the window. Your image will be copied, compressed, and saved to the folder you selected from the "Where" drop-down menu. | Open the Image Compressor website. Click UPLOAD FILES. Select photos to upload. Click Open. Select a photo. Adjust the photo's compression. Click APPLY. Adjust the compression of other photos if necessary. Click DOWNLOAD ALL. Extract the downloaded ZIP folder. Find the photo you want to compress. Open the photo in Photos. Click ⋯. Click Resize. Select a size. Enter a file name. Select a save location. Click Save. Find the photo you want to compress. Select the photo. Click File. Select Open With. Click Preview. Click File. Click Export…. Enter a name. Select a save location. Change the image to JPEG format if necessary. Adjust the compression quality. Click Save. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Organize-a-Birthday-Party-for-Kids | How to Organize a Birthday Party for Kids | Whether your child is turning 3 or 13, start your planning by choosing a theme they'll be excited about, like pirates, princesses, or superheroes. Send out invitations with the party's start time, end time, and address. Then, buy or make decorations - and don't worry if you're not crafty! All you need are some colored tablecloths and balloons to liven up the space. Choose some activities like capture the flag or a scavenger hunt, and make or order a birthday cake. | Pick a theme with your child. Though it may seem unnecessary, having a theme will help you know what decorations to buy, what food to prepare, and what games to plan. Character parties are popular (think Sponge Bob or Scooby-Doo ), but general themes work, too (pirates, fairies, princesses, cowboys, etc.). Unless they want something that just isn't appropriate, allow them creative freedom. Sit down with your child at the table with a pen and paper and write down all the ideas you both like. Some themes will obviously be more difficult than others. Go with your child to a couple of party stores and see what's available or go online. It'll be easiest to pick a theme based on what you have at your disposal. Most parents aren't Martha Stewart; you certainly don't have to be. Nail down the specifics. There are a few questions you'll have to address: When is the party going to be? How long will it last? Where is it going to be? Is there anything going on communally or culturally that would prevent other children from coming? What time of day works into your schedule? Take your child's age into account. Generally, the younger the child, the earlier the party. You do not have to entertain all day--a few hours is more than sufficient. If you're not having it at home, consult the desired venue to see what times are available. Get invitations (that match the theme! ). Once you have them picked out, it's time to finalize the details. Check your schedule to make sure there are no girl scouts or work meetings during the time you're thinking. On the invitation, put the start and end times, address, what each child should bring (swimsuit, etc.) and if there will be a meal so parents can plan accordingly. As for guests, a good rule of thumb is the child's age plus 1. And if parents can come along, great! It's best to have a couple others to help with monitoring and clean up. Have your invitations in the theme of your party. The other children will probably get excited, too. Your child can hand them out at school (if possible to do it discreetly) or you can give them to the parents if your child is too young (or forgetful!). Your child shouldn't hand them out in front of those not invited -- it might make the others feel bad. Give them to the teacher to put in the take home folder or have your child put them in desks or lockers. Buy decorations. For everything from table cloths to pinatas, a party store is your best bet -- or else you'll end up bouncing around town for days looking to piece it all together. And if they don't have a specific something, ask! They may be able to order it for you. It's always an option to make your own if you're DIY handy. And your child can always help if you want someone to blame the poor penmanship on! As an alternative idea, a few children can come over a bit earlier to make decorations themselves, if they'd like. Plan some games. These are the building blocks of a good child's party, so start thinking up craft projects, look into renting an entertainer, or utilize the facilities at an outside venue. Look in your phone book or online for party rentals or places near you. For younger kids, have a loose schedule to keep things running. Don't be afraid to go super theme-oriented. If you're having a Wild West party, have them pan for gold in the sandbox. Conduct a scavenger hunt with theme-related clues and a final prize. Don't be afraid to go super simple. Nowadays, kids aren't playing the old school games they could be. Instead of having them all plop down in front of the Wii, have them Capture the Flag, play Red Rover, Blind Man's Bluff, or have relay races. For older children, have more free time. The older the child, the less structured the party should be. Kids will likely want to do their own thing at one point or another. If they express this, don't stress. More free time for you and the other parents! Make party favors interactive. Instead of giving them a bag of small toys that will get played with for three minutes and then shoved in a drawer, have them make the party favors themselves! The kids will feel more involved and like they were a part of the party. They could make potato print t-shirts, simple masks, jewelry, fishing rods, badges -- the list goes on and on and on. This requires a bit more forethought, but will pay off in the long run. You could have this be the first activity -- so children that come earlier have something to busy themselves with while the others slowly file in. Any late arriving child can take the necessary materials home with them if they'd like. Let the kids take home the decorations. This is an easy and quick idea if you have something with a general theme, like princesses or baseball. And it allows for minimal clean up! Plan the party food. When it comes to parties, one thing is timeless: cake. Will you bake one or buy one? Or two?! Cupcakes are easy and super trendy as well. Whatever you choose, either get the order in early or go grocery shopping for the ingredients ahead of time. Make the food theme oriented, too! Despite what logic dictates, cake isn't enough. You'll need food food too -- make it easy on yourself and get some pizzas delivered or get a fast food restaurant or catering company to take care of everything. Finger sandwiches and lunch bags with sandwiches and fruit, jellos, or chocolate chip cookies are great choices, too. If it's a nice day outside and you have a grill, kids love hot dogs and hamburgers. Don't forget the buns, mustard, and ketchup! If there will be other parents or adults attending and watching over the kids, have food for them, too. They may not be so keen on chicken nuggets and Sprite. Plan the party drinks. Soda pop, lemonade, and juice are all pretty standard. And if you'll be outside a lot, a cooler filled with bottles of water or cans of soda will surely be appreciated, especially if it's hot outside. And, of course, milk goes great with cake. If it's autumn or winter, have the kids play outside and come in for cider to warm them up. Have glasses (and cutlery in general) that are safe for the kids to use. Things may get broken -- so don't break out your fine china. Be prepared for a mess. Plan the goodbye. Give the other parents your cell phone number on the off chance they're running late, early, or sending someone else to pick up their child. Establish protocol for the safety of every child. As the child leaves, take note. Have them say goodbye to everyone, gather their things, their party favor, and mentally check them off their list. Never let the child leave on their own or with an adult you don't recognize. | Pick a theme with your child. Nail down the specifics. Get invitations (that match the theme! Buy decorations. Plan some games. Make party favors interactive. Plan the party food. Plan the party drinks. Plan the goodbye. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Candle-Wax | How to Remove Candle Wax | To remove candle wax, start by putting the stained item in the freezer for at least an hour so the wax hardens. Then, take the item out of the freezer and use the edge of a credit card to scrape the hardened wax off of it. If you're working with fabric, machine wash it after you scrape the wax off to get rid of any leftover residue. If you're working with a hard surface that won't fit in the freezer, melt the wax using a blow dryer and then wipe it off with a paper towel. | Put the item in the freezer. Pop small items, like a table runner, into the freezer to harden the wax. If you have a chest or deep freezer, you may even be able to freeze large items, like candlesticks, to help remove the wax. If the item is too large to fit in the freezer, wrap ice cubes or ice packs in an absorbent towel and apply them to the wax to cool it. Allow the wax to cool completely. Leave the item in the fridge for up to an hour in order to cool the wax completely. This will make it easier to remove the wax and ensure it doesn't spread further. Chip off the wax. Scrape off the wax using the edge of a credit card, or similar plastic-edged tool. The wax should flake and chip away as you go. Avoid using a metal knife or other object that could further damage your item. Launder or clean the item. Once the wax has been removed, you'll need to clean the item to remove the residue. Treat fabrics with spot lifter and launder them as usual. Put a small amount of all-purpose cleaner on hard surfaces and scrub the area with a small, clean toothbrush. Find and plug in a blow dryer. You can use a blow dryer to reheat and melt the candle wax so that it can be easily wiped up. This method is a great choice for hard surfaces like tabletops and candlesticks. It's not an ideal choice for fabrics, especially if the wax is colored, as melting the wax without immediately soaking it up can cause the stain to spread. Heat the wax until it melts. Set your blow dryer to a "hot" setting and aim it directly at the stain. Keep the blow dryer a few inches from the surface to avoid scorching the material. Try not blow the wax around -- it's easier to wipe up if it's all in one puddle, rather than spread out. Wipe the wax away. Use a cheap cloth or paper towel to wipe away the melted wax. Wax can be difficult to get out of the cloth or towel you use to wipe up the mess, so be sure not to use your nice towels. An old rag or a disposable paper towel will do the trick. You can also use a plastic-edged card to lift away the hot wax. Remove residue with an all-purpose cleaner. If there's a film of wax left over, get rid of it with a little spray cleaner and a sponge. Squirt or spray an all-purpose cleaning fluid onto the area and wipe it up with a damp rag or sponge. If you're working on a fragile surface (for example, a fine wooden tabletop), be sure not to damage your surface with an abrasive cleaner or rag. Repeat if necessary. If any lingering bits of wax remain after wiping and scrubbing, try melting them again with the blow dryer. Then, wipe up the wax and use the spray cleaner again. Repeat until the surface comes clean. Set an iron to medium heat. You can remove dried candle wax by melting it with an iron and soaking it up with paper towels at the same time. It's a great choice for wax that's stuck to fabric or clothing. Be sure not to get wax on the iron, though. Always use caution when handling an iron. If you're unsure whether it's hot or not, flick a little water at it, rather than touching it. Never leave hot irons unattended, especially if they're face down. Layer towels over the wax. As your iron heats, put paper towels on top of the troublesome wax, making sure that they are as large or larger than the iron. Cover the layer of paper towels with a fabric kitchen towel to avoid burning the paper towels. Rub the iron over the kitchen towel. Place the iron on the kitchen towel, then gently rub the iron back and forth as you would if you were ironing clothes. This will gradually heat and melt the wax, which will be absorbed by the layer of paper towels as it melts. To prevent the iron from burning your towel, keep it in constant, gentle motion. Replace paper towels as necessary. Remove the iron and towels to check your progress every couple minutes. If your paper towels start to appear saturated with liquid wax, discard them and replace them with new paper towels. Repeat this process until the wax is fully absorbed. If you allow your paper towels to become completely soaked with wax and continue working, you'll start to spread hot wax around the fabric, rather than soaking it up. Turn off the iron. When you seem not to be making any more progress on your candle wax, you may turn off your iron and discard your paper towels. Be patient -- the process can take upwards of ten minutes. When you've soaked up all the wax you can, there may be a slight discoloration in the fabric if the wax was colored. Apply a spot lifter to the stain before laundering. To get any lingering discoloration out of your fabric, spray a spot lifter onto the stain. Then, wash the item as usual to remove the stain. Hand wash or dry clean delicate items to prevent damaging the fabric. Get a canister of compressed air. You can use compressed air to cool the wax, making it easier to chip or scrape off of a surface. It works well for small drops of wax on hard surfaces, such as a table or counter top, and on soft surfaces like leather, suede, and nubuck. Try this if the wax is too soft and gel-like to easily remove, but not liquid enough to wipe away or soak up. Canned air is available at most office supply stores. Spray the wax with compressed air. Aim the can at the spot and hold down the trigger. The cool, rapidly-moving air should gradually cause the wax to cool and stiffen, becoming more brittle, which makes it easier to chip off. Scrape away the wax. Once the wax has hardened, use the edge of a credit card (or another similar stiff plastic item) to scrape it off. The wax should easily separate from the surface it's attached to, chipping off in brittle chunks. Avoid using metal scrapers that can gouge or scratch the surface you're trying to remove the wax from, permanently marring its surface. Repeat the blowing and scraping processes as needed. You may need to remove the wax in increments, cooling and scraping it repeatedly. Because the amount of compressed air coming from the can only covers a small area, this is best for little drips rather than large stains. Follow up with all-purpose cleaner. When you've scraped as much wax away as you possibly can, you may notice a thin film or residue remaining. Squirt or spray a little all-purpose or upholstery cleaner (depending on the item) onto the area and scrub it with a wet rag. | Put the item in the freezer. Allow the wax to cool completely. Chip off the wax. Launder or clean the item. Find and plug in a blow dryer. Heat the wax until it melts. Wipe the wax away. Remove residue with an all-purpose cleaner. Repeat if necessary. Set an iron to medium heat. Layer towels over the wax. Rub the iron over the kitchen towel. Replace paper towels as necessary. Turn off the iron. Apply a spot lifter to the stain before laundering. Get a canister of compressed air. Spray the wax with compressed air. Scrape away the wax. Repeat the blowing and scraping processes as needed. Follow up with all-purpose cleaner. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Molting-Parrot | How to Care for a Molting Parrot | To care for a molting parrot, mist the bird twice per day with room temperature water to ease discomfort and itchiness. Allow your parrot to rest more than usual, since adequate sleep is important for the development of new feathers. Feed your bird a fresh cucumber slice every day to provide essential nutrients that can help the process along. Once the pin feathers start coming in, avoid petting the bird because its skin will be very sensitive. | Mist your parrot 2 times per day to make it feel comfortable. Misting your bird will provide extra humidity to the bird's cage, which will make it less itchy. Use a mister or spray bottle to mist your bird with room-temperature water. Misting regularly will also soften the hard sheath that forms around the pin feathers, which will make them easier to remove once the new feathers have grown in. Misting or spraying your bird replicates rainfall for the bird. You should do this 2-3 times a week even when your bird isn't molting. Let your parrot rest more than usual. Your parrot may be grumpy or exhibit a twitching behavior while it's molting because it's itchy and uncomfortable. Do not disturb the bird while it's sleeping or resting. Place the bird in a dark area where it won't be disturbed for 12-13 hours per day during the molting process. Be patient with your bird and let it get all the rest it needs. Adequate sleep is important for the new feathers' development. Avoid petting the bird while the pin feathers are coming in. Pin feathers are filled with blood and are very sensitive when they first start growing in. Petting your bird vigorously could damage them and hurt your bird, so avoid doing it. Once the feathers grow in and the hard sheath around the base of the feather flakes off, you can start petting your bird again without hurting it. This will occur towards the end of the molting process. Keep your parrot in a space that's room-temperature. As your parrot's feathers fall out, it will be more susceptible to chilly drafts. Because of this, make sure that the room you're keeping your bird in is room temperature, or generally 70 °F (21 °C). Keep them away from windows or open doors if it's cold outside. Even though parrots are tropical birds, making the room too hot while they molt may cause them additional discomfort. Roll your finger along the parrot's head and neck once the feathers grow. The parrot will naturally remove or shed its old feathers, but some may still remain on spots that it can't reach, like its head and neck. Wait for the feathers to grow in and for the hard sheath around the base of the feather to start to flake. When this occurs, lightly roll your finger along the head and neck of your parrot to remove the flaky sheath. If the sheath is still hard and waxy, it's not ready to come out. If the parrot has a partner, the partner will usually remove old feathers on the parrot's head and neck. However, if it doesn't, you'll have to do it. Loose feathers and flakes may fall out as you do this. It's important to wait until the feathers are developed or you'll hurt your bird. Feed your parrot a slice of cucumber and extra protein daily. As your parrot grows new feathers, it requires more nutrients. Feeding the parrot a slice of fresh cucumber will provide an extra source of nutrients other than its main food. Increase the amount of protein your bird eats by giving it egg food for parrots or hard-boiled egg yolks daily. This will help the bird grow strong and healthy feathers. Wash the cucumber thoroughly before feeding it to the bird to remove any harmful pesticides. Don't feed your parrot more than a single slice of an averagely sized cucumber per day or you may overfeed it. Remove any fresh food from the bird's cage daily so that it doesn't get moldy. Take your parrot to a vet if it molts more than twice a year. If a bird molts more than twice a year, it means that it's not eating the proper diet or its light cycle is off. Make sure that you're feeding your parrot enough food and nutrients while it molts. In addition, most parrots should receive 10-12 hours of sunlight and 10-12 hours of darkness a day. If you're caring for your bird properly and it's still molting more than twice a year, it could be a sign of stress or a more serious medical condition and you should take your parrot to the vet as soon as possible. If your bird is not getting enough sunlight or the right nutrients, it could alter the molting schedule and how often the bird molts. Parrots molt at different times depending on the species, but typically it occurs in the fall after mating season. You can replace natural sunlight with UV-B light bulbs. Take your bird to the vet if a pin feather starts bleeding. Pin feathers are filled with blood and don't clot when they are damaged. This could cause your parrot to bleed out if one of its pin feathers is damaged or broken. If you notice this, the feather must be removed from the follicle by a trained avian veterinarian. If you don't, there's a chance that your bird could die. Once you take your bird home, let it rest as much as it needs. The vet should have stopped the bleeding and the new feather will grow in. | Mist your parrot 2 times per day to make it feel comfortable. Let your parrot rest more than usual. Avoid petting the bird while the pin feathers are coming in. Keep your parrot in a space that's room-temperature. Roll your finger along the parrot's head and neck once the feathers grow. Feed your parrot a slice of cucumber and extra protein daily. Take your parrot to a vet if it molts more than twice a year. Take your bird to the vet if a pin feather starts bleeding. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Access-Your-Work-Computer-from-Home | How to Access Your Work Computer from Home | To access your work computer from home, try downloading Chrome Remote Desktop on both your home and work computer. Then, you'll be able to access your work computer from your home computer and vice versa. However, depending on your job, you may need permission from a supervisor to access your work computer from home. Also, if you have an IT department at work, you may want to call them and ask them to set up a VPN on your work computer instead. | Request to have remote access to your work computer. Many companies require permission to access the VPN. Call your IT (Information Technology) department or visit the IT website of your company to apply for access. Depending on the nature of your job and your company's Internet security policies, the IT department might be able to assist you immediately. If the IT department requires supervisor permission, contact your supervisor and have him/her make the request on your behalf. You will probably need to provide your username and password to request access. Install VPN software on your work computer. Virtual private network software needs to be installed on to your work machine so that you can work from home. Go to your IT website for the link to download the software and the instructions. Installation is usually self-guided. VPN software instructions may be different for Mac and Windows users. Make sure you are reading the correct instructions for your operating system. If the IT department does not configure your work machine for you, the technicians may give you instructions for configuring your computer yourself. Call or email your company's help desk if you have trouble with the install or configuration. Connect to the VPN. Once the VPN software is installed, you may need to activate the VPN. On a PC, Go to Start→Programs , and then find the name of the VPN software you installed. Double click the VPN client to open. You may be prompted to enter your username and password. This will vary based on your company policies. If you are using a Mac, go to your "Applications" folder and click on the VPN software you installed. Your VPN may automatically connect after it is installed. Read the installation instructions or contact your IT department. Enable Remote Desktop on your work computer. Remote Desktop allows other computers to connect to your work computer. For Windows users, click on Start→Control Panel→ System→Remote Desktop. Check the box that says "Allow users to connect remotely to this computer." Write down the full name of your work computer. You will need this later when you connect from home. The name of your computer should be listed under the box you checked. If you are a Mac user, you can go to the Mac App Store and download "Microsoft Remote Desktop" Leave your work computer on when you leave for the day. Your work computer needs to be connected to the network in order to be accessible to a remote computer. Launch the remote access software on your work computer, if required. It depends on how your IT department has configured your network. Check the system requirements of your home computer. Before you install the VPN software on your computer, make sure that your home computer meets the system requirements. The requirements will vary based on your company. Typical requirements include an up-to-date operating system and a certain amount of RAM (hard disk space). Requirements will differ for Mac and Windows users. System requirements are usually available on the IT website. If you have questions about the system requirements, call or email your IT department. Download the VPN client software to your home computer. Load the VPN client software to your home computer just as you did to your work computer. The installation process is usually self-guided. Make sure you follow the directions. If you run into problems,your IT department may have you bring your computer into the office to install and configure the software. If your IT department does not install the software for you, the technicians might give you the software to take home along with installation and configuration instructions. Call or email your company's help desk if you have trouble with the install or configuration. Launch the VPN client software on your home computer. On a PC, Go to Start→Programs , and then find the name of the VPN software you installed. Double click the VPN client to open. You may be prompted to enter your username and password. If you are using a Mac, go to your "Applications" folder and click on the VPN software you installed. Access the Remote Desktop on your home computer. You must now access the Remote Desktop on your home to computer to connect to your computer at work. If you are a Windows use, go to Start→Accessories→Communications→Remote Desktop. Once you have reached the Remote Desktop, type in the name of your work computer then press "Connect." You should now be connected to your work computer and able to work from home. You must be logged into the VPN before connecting through Remote Desktop. If you are using a Mac, download "Microsoft Remote Desktop." If you have trouble locating your work computer on the network, contact your company's help desk. Know that your home computer may be slower than your work computer. The speed of your VPN connection depends on the speed of your internet connection speed at home. The faster your network speed, the faster your VPN connection will be. Keep in mind that information that you send and receive is encrypted. The encryption process slows things down as well. Do not use your VPN for personal web surfing. Your company can see all of your web activity when you use a VPN. It is not a good practice to conduct personal web browsing over VPN. You do not want to get in trouble at work. Simply minimize the Remote Desktop window if you need to do something personal. Try a service like Chrome Remote Desktop. If your company does not have an IT department or a VPN, you can still securely access and share information between computers. Chrome Remote Desktop is a free app that can be used by both Windows and Mac users. If you are not already using Google Chrome, you will need to download Google Chrome web browser before you can use this application. Install Chrome Remote Desktop on the computers you would like to connect. Go to the Chrome Web Store to download the app. Click the blue " + Add to Chrome " button that is in the upper right corner of the window. Click "Add" when prompted. Authorize Chrome Remote Desktop. The first time you open the app, you will be required to authorize it. Authorization allows the app to see your email address, your Chrome Remote Desktop computers, and to send and receive chat messages which will allow the computers to talk to each other. You should not be asked to authorize the app every time you use it. Enable remote access to your computer. Create a Google Account if you do not already have one. Open a new tab in Google Chrome, click "Apps" under the Chrome search bar, and open the Chrome Remote Desktop app. In the "My Computers" box, click "Get Started," and then click "enable remote connections." You will then need to Install the Chrome Remote Host Service. If you are using Windows, enter a PIN (that you choose) and then click "Yes" to install the host service. The host service will download and install automatically. After it has been installed, confirm your Google Account and enter your PIN again. The computer that you enabled should now be listed under "My Computers." You will need administrative privileges to install the host service on the computer. If you are using a Mac, Chrome will begin the downloading an installation.dmg. Click "Save," and then click "chrome remote desktop.dmg" in the download bar. Use your Finder to locate and then double click the "Chrome Remote Desktop.mpkg." Follow all of the prompts to complete the installation, and then return to Chrome and click "OK." Enter and confirm your PIN and click "OK." A systems preference dialog will appear, and you will need to confirm your account and PIN. When you are finished, "Remote connections for this computer have been enabled" should appear. Click "OK" and the computer you enabled should be under "My Computers" now. Access your computer. The computer you are accessing needs to be turned on and connected to the internet. Open a new tab in Google Chrome, click "Apps," and open the Chrome Remote Desktop app. Click "Get Started" in the "My Computers" box and choose the computer you want to access. Enter the PIN you set up for the computer and click "Connect." To end the remote session, place your mouse in the top center of the page, click the drop-down bar, and click "Disconnect." Share your computer with someone else. You can share your computer with a coworker or friend if the Chrome Remote Desktop app is installed on his or her computer. Open the app on your computer, click the "Remote Assistance" box, and click the "Share" button. You will receive a unique access code that you can share with the other person. Once the other person enters the code, he or she is able to see your computer screen. The access code can only be used for one sharing session. Click "Stop sharing" or press "Ctrl+Alt+Esc" (Mac: Opt+Ctrl+Esc) to end the session. Be careful if you are sharing with another person. He or she will have access to all of your files, email, and applications on your computer. | Request to have remote access to your work computer. Install VPN software on your work computer. Connect to the VPN. Enable Remote Desktop on your work computer. Leave your work computer on when you leave for the day. Check the system requirements of your home computer. Download the VPN client software to your home computer. Launch the VPN client software on your home computer. Access the Remote Desktop on your home computer. Know that your home computer may be slower than your work computer. Do not use your VPN for personal web surfing. Try a service like Chrome Remote Desktop. Install Chrome Remote Desktop on the computers you would like to connect. Authorize Chrome Remote Desktop. Enable remote access to your computer. Access your computer. Share your computer with someone else. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Know-if-a-Parakeet-Is-Right-for-You | How to Know if a Parakeet Is Right for You | Parakeets are friendly and social birds that will make a great addition to your home if you can dedicate the right space and time to them. Parakeets generally live for 15 to 20 years so they're more of a commitment than most other pets. Because they're such social birds, you'll need to give them attention and talk to them every day, and they'll need a large cage to fly around and play. You'll also need to clean up after them daily, and they can chew on furniture and leave droppings when outside their cage. However, you can minimize cleanup by laying down newspaper. Parakeets aren't the noisiest birds, but they can be chatty for short periods of time. They're generally not a good idea if you have a busy household or other pets. | Decide if you are ready for a 15-20 year commitment. You'll need to account for a parakeet's lifespan before deciding to get one. A healthy parakeet can live for 15-20 years, which is more than many cats or dogs and most small mammals, but less than larger birds like parrots. If you plan to travel or make lifestyle changes in the future, a parakeet might not be the best pet for you. Determine if you can handle their personality. While personality varies from bird to bird, most parakeets share two values: they are social, and they are stubborn. When a parakeet is let out to play, it will want to socialize directly with you. It will also want to chew and peck around the house, and will leave droppings anywhere, including on the furniture and on you. Parakeets are intelligent and can be hand-trained. Consider if this is something that appeals to you or not. Parakeets cannot be housebroken, so cleanup is a huge part of taking care of the pet. You can put down towels and papers when you let the bird out to play to help minimize cleaning, though. Consider the noise level. Parakeets don't squawk all of the time, but they will make a loud screaming noise at least once a day for several minutes on end, up to half an hour. If there is someone in your home who needs lots of sleep, like a child, or is otherwise sensitive to noise, a parakeet might not be the right pet. Determine how much time you can commit. Parakeets are friendly, social bird, meaning that they need daily attention. You need to be able to commit time every day to cleaning your parakeet's cage, changing out food and water bowls, and socializing with it by playing, talking, and hand-training. The exact amount of time you spend with your bird will depend on your commitments and your schedule, but they should receive at least an hour of social time a day. Prepare to have multiple birds. Parakeets are very social. Unless there is someone in the home in the house to socialize with most of the time, your parakeet will probably want a friend. Think about whether you are ready to keep 2 birds at one time, which will double the noise, social time, and clean-up, but also double the love and affection. Evaluate your household activity. Parakeets are easily stressed, and susceptible to hurting themselves or weakened immunity when anxious. If you move frequently, or have an active household such as one with small children, it may be difficult to keep your parakeet healthy. Consider your other pets. Having a cat, dog, snake, or other predatory pet could be a risk for your parakeet. While many homes have multiple types of pets, it requires very careful attention to every interaction. Think about the demeanor of your current pets. Even a well-trained cat or dog who just wants to play could accidentally hurt your parakeet. If you are going to bring your parakeet into a home with other pets, be sure you have a secure cage with bars too small for the other pets to get in. Do not leave the parakeet out unattended at any point. Measure the space you have to give the bird. While some choose to keep parakeets in small cages, they are typically much happier in larger environments. Make sure you have room in your home for a cage that is large enough to fit your parakeet, it's food and water dishes, multiple toys, and multiple perches, and still give the bird room to fly. The general recommendation is to buy the largest cage you can afford. Factor in your time away. Parakeets aren't birds that can be left alone if you travel or are away from home frequently. Think about whether you have someone you trust to come feed and check on the bird. Avoid getting a parakeet if someone in your home has health issues. Consider if you or anyone in the family has a weak immune system. Birds can carry diseases that don't make them sick but can be passed onto people, such as giardia and campylobacter. If someone in your home has a weak immune system, a pet parakeet may not be appropriate for your circumstances. Add up regular expenses. On top of initial set-up, keeping a parakeet will require you to regularly buy food, chew toys, treats, new bowls, and supplements like mineral blocks. These are not typically high-cost items, but you still need to be prepared to regularly spend money on your bird. Factor in vet visits. Even a healthy-looking parakeet should see an avian vet every year to make sure the bird is doing as well as it looks. On top of that, you may have unexpected vet costs if you notice your parakeet show symptoms of an illness. Be prepared to spend money at least once a year on vet visits, and have a way to pay for unexpected illness. In the U.S., the cost of visiting an avian vet can range from $50 to $200 per appointment, not including medication or off-site work such as lab work, depending upon the vet and the bird's condition. Account for increased heating and air conditioning bills. Parakeets tend to prefer a temperature between 65° F and 80° F (18° C and 26.5° C). If you live in an area where it tends to get very cold or very hot, your parakeet may require you to turn up your climate control systems, which could boost your energy and/or gas bills. | Decide if you are ready for a 15-20 year commitment. Determine if you can handle their personality. Consider the noise level. Determine how much time you can commit. Prepare to have multiple birds. Evaluate your household activity. Consider your other pets. Measure the space you have to give the bird. Factor in your time away. Avoid getting a parakeet if someone in your home has health issues. Add up regular expenses. Factor in vet visits. Account for increased heating and air conditioning bills. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Moroccan-Tea | How to Make Moroccan Tea | To make Moroccan tea, start by boiling 1 cup of water and then pouring 1/4 cup of it into a teapot. Then, add 1 teaspoon of loose gunpowder tea and the rest of the hot water to the teapot and let it steep for 30 seconds before straining the water out. Next, add some fresh mint leaves and sugar to the teapot, as well as 4 cups of hot water. Finally, let the tea steep for 5 minutes before serving. | . Boil 1 cup (240 ml) of water Fill a tea kettle or small saucepan with 1 cup of water, and bring it to a boil on the stove over medium-high heat. You can prepare the full amount of water during this step, but you'll only use 1 cup (240 ml) when activating the tea leaves. The rest of the water may need to be reheated before use. Note that the water should be between 158°F and 176°F (70°c and 80°c). Warm the teapot. Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) of boiled water into the clean teapot. Swirl the water around slightly to rinse and warm the pot. If possible, try to use a Moroccan teapot. Moroccan teapots vary in size, but a small pot typically holds about a half liter (six glasses) of tea, while a larger pot holds approximately a liter (12 glasses); you can also use an ordinary teapot if you don't have a Moroccan one. Flameproof teapots are ideal when available. Add the loose gunpowder tea. Place the tea leaves in the tea pot. You'll need about 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of loose gunpowder tea for every 6 oz (177ml) of hot water. If following the quantities noted in this recipe, add the full amount of leaves. Chinese gunpowder tea is the most conventional, but if you are unable to find this tea, you could prepare a similar version of this drink using other loose green tea leaves or green tea bags. Use at least 2 tea bags for every 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of loose tea if choosing this option. Pour in the remaining 3/4 cup (200 ml) of water. Add boiling water to the tea pot, directly over the tea leaves currently in the pot. Swirl the pot gently to warm, rinse, and activate the tea leaves. Steep briefly. Allow the tea to steep in the hot water for about 30 seconds. For a stronger flavor, you might consider letting it steep for as long as 1 or 2 minutes. Strain the water. Swirl the pot to wash and rinse the tea leaves, then carefully strain the water out through the spout of the tea pot, keeping the leaves in the pot. The drained liquid is not Moroccan tea. This initial portion of water only rinses the leaves. Some tea pots have strainers in them; others do not. If your pot does not have its own strainer, make sure that you pour the contents through a separate strainer to collect the leaves and return them to the pot. Add the next ingredients to the teapot. This includes mint leaves and the sugar. Add them directly to the wet tea leaves in the pot. Try to find a Middle Eastern grocery store. Moroccan mint has a different taste than most other mints. If you are unable to find Moroccan mint, use any spearmint or peppermint. Cane sugar is best. Dextrose will also work if you don't wish to use cane sugar, but you'll need to double the quantities of sugar to ensure sweetness. Fill the pot with the remaining water. If you boiled the water previously and it still feels hot enough, you can add it immediately. If not, boil the remaining 4 cups (1 L) before adding it to the pot. Leave the tea to steep for about 5 minutes. If you have a Moroccan teapot or a heatproof teapot, rather than steeping, set the teapot over low heat and bring the tea to a low simmer. Then, immediately remove from the heat, and allow to steep several minutes more. Pour one glass of tea. Pour it back into the teapot. Do this three or more times. This helps dissolve the sugar. Pour the tea from a high distance. Doing this will help to create a thin layer of foam on the top. When pouring, make sure the tea pellets stay with the tea inside the pot. Only fill the cup two-thirds full; this enables the aroma to develop fully. Enjoy! After pouring the remaining tea, garnish the tea with extra mint (if available). This is an optional step but makes it look fantastic, especially if you have proper Moroccan glasses. | . Warm the teapot. Add the loose gunpowder tea. Pour in the remaining 3/4 cup (200 ml) of water. Steep briefly. Strain the water. Add the next ingredients to the teapot. Fill the pot with the remaining water. Pour one glass of tea. Pour the tea from a high distance. Enjoy! |
https://www.wikihow.com/Solder-Stained-Glass | How to Solder Stained Glass | To solder stained glass, start by wrapping copper foil around the edges of your stained glass. Then, use a roller to flatten the foil on the glass, and brush a coat of liquid flux on the foil so it bonds together later. Next, heat up a soldering iron, and assemble the glass pieces into your desired final design. Finally, use the soldering iron and a coil of solder to bond the copper foil on each piece to the foil next to it. | Turn on your soldering iron and set up your materials. Set out your copper foil, liquid flux, and coil of solder. Plug in your soldering iron, set it on its stand, and allow it to heat up. It's important to have everything set up before you begin the soldering process, because precise timing is very important in this project. Cut a length of adhesive copper foil to fit your glass pieces. Solder won't stick to glass by itself--you need another metal on the surface to hold it in. Adhesive copper foil will wrap around the edge of the glass you want to solder. Measure this by lining up the copper foil along the edge of the glass, leaving about ⁄ 8 inch (3.2 mm) on each end. Then cut the foil carefully with your scissors. You can buy readymade strips of foil from most craft stores. Remove the backing from the strip of adhesive foil. After you cut the foil pieces, you can gently peel the backing off. You should be able to easily strip away the paper backing from the foil, revealing the adhesive side. Place the adhesive side of the copper foil on the edge of the glass. Try to position the edge of the glass directly on the center of the copper foil. Then, press the foil down gently around the edges of the glass. Be careful when wrapping the foil around sharp edges! You can wear heavy-duty craft gloves to protect your hands from cuts. Use a roller to make sure the foil is firmly on the glass. Use a roller or a pencil to roll out any creases, wrinkles, or bubbles in the foil. This is very important because the solder may not bond with wrinkled foil. Repeat until all your glass pieces are lined with foil. Each one of the pieces you plan to use should have foil wrapped all the way around it. Double-check to be sure the foil is firmly stuck on all the glass edges. Brush a coat of liquid flux onto the copper foil. The flux helps the metal in the solder and the foil to stick together permanently. Brush one coat of liquid flux onto all of the copper foil. It doesn't have to be applied perfectly, so long as all the foil is covered. Position your glass pieces for soldering. Assemble your glass pieces into their final design position. Leave a very thin gap (about ⁄ 16 inch (1.6 mm)) between the pieces so the solder will be able to flow into the seam. You can assemble the glass on any hard, heat-resistant surface, but metal work tables are best. Unroll about 4 inches (100 mm) of solder from the coil. This will melt to form the bond between the two pieces of glass. Since most solder contains lead, it's best to wear gloves to prevent accidental poisoning. Hold the coil of solder in your left hand and the soldering iron in your right hand. This can be reversed if you are left-handed. Choose whichever is more comfortable for you. Be very careful picking up the soldering iron--the tip can easily cause serious burns. Place the tip of the unrolled solder above the copper foil. It might be tempting to lie the solder down on the seams between two pieces of glass and use the iron directly on them, but don't do it. Keep the solder at least ⁄ 2 inch (13 mm) above the foil.The best results are achieved by letting the melted solder drop into the seam between the pieces of glass. Touch the tip of the soldering iron to the tip of the unrolled solder. It will immediately begin to melt the solder and the solder will drop into the seam. Be very careful--the soldering iron is extremely hot. Don't worry if solder falls onto the glass. It won't stick. If your solder beads up too much, simply run the tip of the soldering iron through it gently. Move both hands along the seam. Keep your hands in the same position--one holding the solder, the other holding the soldering iron up to it. Move your hands along the seams of the glass while the solder drips down onto it. Move quickly enough so that the melted solder does not bunch up in one area, but slow enough so that the entire seam gets coated with the bead of solder. Remove the tip of the soldering iron when you reach the end of the seam. You should see a continuous line of solder along the intersection of the two pieces of glass. The glass is now strongly and permanently bonded together. Repeat until all the glass is soldered. Solder the rest of the glass, moving in the same direction to prevent dripping. It's okay if it's not perfectly even the first time. The more times you practice this process, the more comfortable you will feel and the cleaner your soldering lines will look. Choose your design. Decide what you'd like to make and how much glass and solder you'll need for it. The amounts of both will depend on what you're trying to make, but if you're a beginner, it's best to start out small with a simple design. Put the glass on a towel on a hard surface. You'll want to brace the glass against something hard, but too much force can cause it to shatter. The towel will keep the glass from sliding around and will catch any small fragments of glass that break off in the cutting process. Score the glass. Using your glass cutter , press down firmly and make one single score, from one edge to the other, where you'd like the glass to break. It's very important to make only one score line in order to get a clean break. Be careful scoring the glass--both the cutter and the glass itself can be dangerous. Snap the glass along the score line. Carefully break the glass along the line you made. The simplest way to do this is by holding the glass with one hand on each side of the line. Make a quick snapping motion and the glass will separate along the score line. Score the glass until you have enough to work with. Continue scoring and breaking glass until you make enough glass pieces to create your project. Most stained glass projects use pieces that fit together like a puzzle. If you are looking for pattern ideas, you can buy stained glass patterns from craft stores or find them online. Wipe the glass. Gently wipe the glass off to get rid of any small shards. You can use a wet sponge or wet paper towels. Be careful disposing of them--small pieces can cause splinters. | Turn on your soldering iron and set up your materials. Cut a length of adhesive copper foil to fit your glass pieces. Remove the backing from the strip of adhesive foil. Place the adhesive side of the copper foil on the edge of the glass. Use a roller to make sure the foil is firmly on the glass. Repeat until all your glass pieces are lined with foil. Brush a coat of liquid flux onto the copper foil. Position your glass pieces for soldering. Unroll about 4 inches (100 mm) of solder from the coil. Hold the coil of solder in your left hand and the soldering iron in your right hand. Place the tip of the unrolled solder above the copper foil. Touch the tip of the soldering iron to the tip of the unrolled solder. Move both hands along the seam. Remove the tip of the soldering iron when you reach the end of the seam. Repeat until all the glass is soldered. Choose your design. Put the glass on a towel on a hard surface. Score the glass. Snap the glass along the score line. Score the glass until you have enough to work with. Wipe the glass. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Dead-Skin | How to Get Rid of Dead Skin | To get rid of dead skin, exfoliate your face and body using abrasive creams or scrubs, like an exfoliating face or body wash. You can also apply a chemical exfoliating product to your face or body, like a glycolic acid peel, which will help eliminate dead skin. If you want to use an all-natural exfoliator, just mix brown sugar and olive oil and then gently rub it into your skin. To prevent dead skin in the future, moisturize your face and body every day and avoid taking long, hot showers. | Soak a towel in warm water. Gently place this on your face and let it sit for one to two minutes. This will open your pores and prepare the skin on your face for exfoliation. Exfoliation is one of the most effective means to get rid of dead skin. Be careful that you use a warm and not scalding hot towel. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser. After using the warm towel, the next step is to wash your face using a mild cleanser (such as Cetaphil) — the same as the one you likely already use on a daily basis as part of good skin care. Cleaning your skin can further help to open the pores and better prepare the skin on your face for effective exfoliation. After washing, gently pat your skin with a dry towel. Be gentle and do not rub too vigorously, to avoid causing any damage to your skin. You may try standing in front of a fan to dry your body, especially hard to reach areas. Try physical exfoliation. There are two types of exfoliation: physical, and chemical. Physical exfoliation is when you physically use a product that scrapes away dead skin cells by the pressure exerted upon them. Examples of tools for physical exfoliation include exfoliating pads and microdermabrasion kits. Skin-care professionals do not recommend microdermabrasion without the consultation of a doctor or dermatologist first, as you could damage or irritate your skin. Skin-care companies such as L'Oreal, Ponds, Clinique, and Neutrogena are now producing at-home microdermabrasion kits. These generally consist of an abrasive cream or scrub with a special tool for application. Sometimes they come with a microdermabrasion cloth with fibres that are rougher than normal and meant to remove dead skin cells. An example is Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion and Peel System. Try chemical exfoliation. There is a variety of chemical exfoliating products available. Your best bet is to consult a professional in aesthetics or a dermatologist for advice in choosing the right product for you. You can also get a chemical peel done by a dermatologist. If you are unable to afford a professional consultation, carefully read the labels of the products and choose one that is suited to your skin type. After washing your face and gently drying it, carefully apply the chemical exfoliating product. Spread it all over your face, being sure to cover the full surface area. Gently massage the chemical exfoliating agent into your skin. Try delicate circular motions with your fingers. Do not rub too hard, as you do not want to damage your skin inadvertently. Many people exfoliate their neck as well. Some examples of chemical exfoliating agents include a glycolic acid peel or a lactic acid peel. The acidic nature of these peels is part of what makes them so effective. Chemical exfoliation tends to work better than physical exfoliation (in particular for long-term results) because it is able to access deeper layers of the skin. Chemical exfoliation works by breaking chemical bonds, which in turn releases dead skin cells and allows them to shed much more easily. Avoid using multiple chemical exfoliators at once since over-exfoliating your face can cause irritation and skin problems. Wash your face with water after you are done exfoliating. Then gently pat it dry. Leave it for about five minutes to air dry and then finish by applying a moisturizing lotion. Moisturizing lotions are recommended as part of general skin care. They help to prevent early signs of aging and give your skin an overall healthy glow. Understand that you can also exfoliate other areas of your body. Basically, all areas of your body are okay to follow this same process of exfoliation (other than sensitive areas and mucous membranes); however, the most common area people use it for is the face and/or the neck. This is because these areas are most visible to the public, and often the highest cosmetic concern for people. Look for exfoliating body scrubs that are made to work on the rest of your body and not your face. Try an all-natural solution using home ingredients. Not all exfoliating solutions are products bought in a store. In fact, it's easy to make your own exfoliating creams, peels, and rubs at home, if you prefer a more natural approach. Below are two easy-to-use recipes: Sugar and Oil Scrub: Combine equal parts brown sugar and any cooking oil (like olive oil, grapeseed oil, etc.) for a highly economical, highly effective skin scrub. Rub into the skin to exfoliate, then rinse with soap and water. Add a tablespoon of honey and a few drops of lemon for extra nutrients. Greek Yogurt and Papaya Enzyme Face Conditioning Mask: Mix 1/2 cup of Greek Yogurt and three tablespoons of mashed up papaya. Apply to face or body, and leave for 15 to 30 minutes. Peel off and rinse face when done. Begin by soaking your feet. Get a bowl of warm to hot water and place both of your feet in it. Let them soak for five to 10 minutes before exfoliating. This will loosen calluses and prepare for the best results. You can add some extra virgin olive oil to the water to increase the softening of your calluses. After soaking them, pat your feet dry with a towel. Try a physical exfoliation brush. Take a brush (you can buy a physical exfoliation brush at a cosmetics store) and rub it in gentle circular motions along the bottom of your foot. Focus particularly on the heel, and on other areas of hard or dead skin; this is an effective way to get rid of loose and/or dead skin. Alternatives to using a brush include a foot file, or the Ped-Egg product that has been marketed as an effective means of physically exfoliating your feet. You can also try an exfoliation cream designed specifically for your feet. Use a pumice stone. If there are dead areas of skin of particular toughness, such as calluses, a pumice stone is an efficient way to shave them down and get rid of the dead skin. Be sure to wash the pumice stone after use and to let it air dry before your next use. Finish by moisturizing the skin on the bottom of your feet. After exfoliating, using a moisturizing agent can help to ensure optimum protection for the new skin and will keep it healthier for longer. Put socks over the moisturizing agent to not slip while walking. Get a pedicure. If you do not want to do this yourself, you can always get a pedicure. During the pedicure they will soak your feet and trim your nails. Some only use a microdermabrasion to work on the hard spots while other will use a razor blade to shave off dead skin. They can also work on any calluses you have on your feet. Use moisturizer liberally. Usually, your skin secretes natural oils to keep it soft, healthy, and moisturized; however, if something removes these oils or interferes with their production, your skin can get dry, flaky, and cracked. To soothe your skin once it dries out, apply a moisturizing lotion, cream, or balm often. These moisturizing solutions work by holding moisture close to the skin with a layer of oil or fat. Consider make lotion application part of your daily routine — for instance, you might try keeping a bottle of hand lotion at each of your kitchen and bathroom sinks so you can apply after each wash. As a very general rule, the thicker the moisturizer, the more it will help your skin regain its moisture. Thus, thick creams, balms, and "butters" are usually more effective than thinner, watery lotions; however, these can sometimes leave you with an unpleasant "greasy" feeling. Try a few options to see what works best for you. Cover up in cold weather. In many parts of the world, winter means cold, dry air outside and hot, dry air (from a heating system) inside. Together, these conditions can be very tough on your skin, causing dryness, cracking, and irritation. One of the best ways to keep your skin safe in the winter is to keep it covered up with long sleeves and other skin- covering accessories. The less of your skin that's exposed to the dry, biting air, the less you'll have to deal with its dehydrating effects. Avoid overuse of harsh abrasives. Stronger abrasives (like pumice stones and stiff brushes) can sometimes be great for eliminating tough, built-up dead skin deposits; however, if used too often (or if used on sensitive skin), these abrasives can leave the skin red and raw, making it vulnerable to dryness and irritation in the long run. If you're noticing pain or redness after exfoliating, take a few days off from your daily routine, then switch to a milder abrasive. For instance, if your stiff-bristled shower brush has been irritating your skin, try switching to a gentle washcloth, which should allow you to exfoliate at a much more manageable pace. Avoid long, hot showers. Hot water, though relaxing, strips away essential oils from your skin and leaves it vulnerable to drying out. To avoid this, simply keep your water temperature warm, not hot, and limit your showers to a reasonable length — about 10 minutes or less. The cooler (and shorter) your shower, the less likely you are to dry out your skin. The same principle applies to baths — shorter and cooler is best. You'll also want to avoid bubble baths and other soap-based soaks (except those known to be "moisturizing"), as these can also strip your skin's natural oils. Pat (rather than scrub) yourself dry after bathing. The back-and-forth action of a towel can remove natural oils loosened by the warm water and irritate delicate skin. Consider switching your soap. Some soaps and cleaning products contain chemicals that can dry out sensitive skin and remove its natural protective oils. Alcohol-based soaps are especially bad. Although it's great for killing germs, alcohol can seriously dehydrate the skin. While good hand hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of disease, you don't need to ruin your hands with harsh soaps to stay clean, so try switching to a milder soap (like Dove "Sensitive Skin") or one billed as "moisturizing" to prevent dry, cracked skin. Instead of washing your whole body with soap, only wash dirty areas like your armpits, your groin, under your breasts, and between your toes. Try a gentle steam bath. For some, spending a few minutes in a steam room or sauna can help soften dry skin, unclog pores, and, most importantly, just feels great. If you have access to a professional-quality steam room, consider spending a few minutes to a half hour or so in the steam room occasionally as part of your weekly routine. Stay safe when using a steam room or sauna — never stay in longer than is comfortable, never raise the heat so high that it's hard for you to breathe or stay awake, and, most importantly, never combine sauna time and alcohol use. | Soak a towel in warm water. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser. Try physical exfoliation. Try chemical exfoliation. Wash your face with water after you are done exfoliating. Understand that you can also exfoliate other areas of your body. Try an all-natural solution using home ingredients. Begin by soaking your feet. Try a physical exfoliation brush. Use a pumice stone. Finish by moisturizing the skin on the bottom of your feet. Get a pedicure. Use moisturizer liberally. Cover up in cold weather. Avoid overuse of harsh abrasives. Avoid long, hot showers. Consider switching your soap. Try a gentle steam bath. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Clinical-Psychologist | How to Become a Clinical Psychologist | To become a clinical psychologist, start by earning a bachelor's degree in psychology. Next, choose an area of psychology that you want to specialize in and pursue a master's degree in that specialization. Then, apply to the doctoral program of your choice to earn a PhD and complete post-doctoral training with a licensed clinical psychologist. Finally, submit your application for a state clinical psychology license. Once you're licensed, you can set up your practice! | Finish your high school courses with at least a 3.0 GPA. To get into a good undergraduate psychology program, you'll need an impressive GPA in high school. Take any psychology classes offered at your school to get a feel for what clinical psychology is all about. Ask the instructor of any psychology classes at your school about the differences in clinical social work, counseling psychology, psychiatry, and clinical psychology, so you can begin deciding which branch of the mental health profession is the right fit for you. If your high school has a psychology club, this will also help with college applications as well as continuing to familiarize you with the discipline. While you can still get into many colleges with a lower GPA, you're likely to have more prestigious options, which in turn will help with graduate school programs. Enroll in an undergraduate psychology program at an accredited university of your choice. Most programs offer general psychology degrees without any kind of specialty until you get to graduate school. Ace your psychology courses and maintain your high GPA. As an undergraduate psychology student, you can expect to study introductory courses, as well as courses heavy of statistical data and research methods. From there, you will additionally choose from upper-division courses that give you overviews of social, developmental, abnormal, and comparative psychology, which will help you in choosing a specific focus for graduate school. If your university offers any type of honors courses track in the psychology department, consider taking those as they'll help distinguish your graduate school applications. Your school may offer either a BA or a BS in psychology for undergraduates. Neither is more advantageous than the other when it comes to graduate school. The important thing is simply to do well. Participate in research projects, internships, and teaching assistant programs as much as possible. Check with your advising office or the psychology department to find out what opportunities are available for you. Since clinical psychology graduate programs are competitive, get as much experience under your belt as you can. Join psychology clubs and stay active with them. This can go on your resume, and programs for clinical psychologists usually require that a resume be submitted with your application. Weigh master’s programs in clinical psychology. The master's degree level is where you are likely to begin seeing specialization come into play. If you already know the area you want to specialize in, look for programs that offer a degree in that specialization. You may seek out a program in developmental, environmental, counseling, or forensic psychology, for instance. You may choose to stay at the same school or find another one with a program you like better. Check all the admissions requirements and make sure you will meet them once you graduate. You should start your search about a year before you graduate with your undergraduate psychology degree. Don't fret if you decide to pursue a graduate program in clinical psychology after nearly completing (or even fully completing) an undergraduate degree in another field. Though all programs require an undergraduate degree, many only require one or possibly two semesters of introductory, research, and statistical courses in psychology. Though, a degree in psychology obviously doesn't hurt to prove you're serious about the discipline. Apply to any programs that appeal to you. Since the programs are so competitive, you should apply to several to help your odds of being accepted to one. Submit everything that the school asks for by the deadline. You may have to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) before you can submit your application. Studies have shown that students applying to doctoral programs who have already completed master's degrees are more likely to finish, so many doctoral programs will consider you a more qualified candidate if you complete a master's degree before applying. Study hard once you enter your clinical psychology graduate program. Collaborate with your professors throughout this time and start preparing your thesis well before you graduate. For those who may be considering the jobs outlook for a master's degree in psychology alone, be aware that American Psychological Association (APA) policy and all state licensing laws reserve the classification of “psychologist” for those who have completed a doctoral program. There are niches for master's graduates in psychology. For instance, a Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, but this niche mostly relates to HR departments for large companies rather than work as a clinical or research psychologist. Apply to doctoral programs. By this time, you will absolutely have a specialization in mind, and you'll need to seek a program that relates to that specialization. This will also require a choice between a traditional Ph.D. program or one of the newer Psy.D. programs. Traditional programs are easier to find at public institutions but are highly competitive. Make sure the program is accredited by the APA, since this is often a requirement for state licensure. You will additionally have to look into whether the program leans more heavily toward clinical/counseling or research/academic in its methodologies. You may, for instance, find a program in abnormal psychology, which is your specialization, but the program may be focused on finding new methods to treat disorders (research work) whereas you are focused on treating those with disorders (clinical work) as your career path. Whereas a Ph.D. will place an equal emphasis on research work as well as clinical work, a Psy.D. will place an increased emphasis on clinical work and less on research. Due to this, you should mostly consider a Psy.D. if your intention is to go into clinical practice such as counseling, designing treatment programs for institutions, etc. where you will work hands on to treat patients. A Ph.D. is still better suited to someone who wants to pursue research and academic work in the field of clinical psychology. As a side note, those graduating with a Psy.D. tend to score lower on the national licensing test, the Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology, than do those with a Ph.D. Your doctoral program will consist of even more specialized training depending on your focus. Based on your interest and specialization, you may work exhaustively in learning to treat specific conditions ranging from phobias to schizophrenia. You may specialize in post-traumatic stress disorders. You may also focus on the best methods for treating specific populations whether it be youths, couples or families, ethnic minority groups, or members of the LGBTQ community. Some programs may not transfer master's-level coursework from any institution other than their own, so keep this in mind when deciding where to apply since certain programs may require repeating similar courses. Commit to and work hard in your doctoral program. You can expect to spend anywhere from five-to-seven years completing your doctoral degree, though there may be overlapping courses that transfer from your master's work to decrease this total time. Doctoral candidates in the field of clinical psychology must usually write and defend a dissertation before completing their studies; however, select institutions that offer a Psy.D. may require a full-scale project such as designing a treatment program. Your program will also likely require a one-year internship in your specialization. APA-accredited institutions are required to provide student-to-internship placement information, so keep this in mind as well. Complete post-doctoral training with a licensed clinical psychologist. Before you can even apply to a state board for licensing, you must complete two years of supervised, professional experience. Use this time to learn from your supervisor and hone your techniques. You will need to know how to do counseling, give psychological tests, perform assessments for mental disorders and help people in crises. Submit the application for a state clinical psychology license. In addition to an application and associated fees, some states may also require a test to obtain your license. A review board will go over your application at length before granting you a license. The specific requirements are determined on a state-by-state basis, and you can find more information regarding your specific state here: Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards Set up your new practice or discuss staying at your post-doctoral supervisor's practice. If you're already working at a practice or research institution you're invested in and passionate about, then you can discuss a permanent position there. However, if you're interested in beginning your own private practice, then you can consult How to Start a Private Practice in Psychology for more information. Regardless, you are now a licensed clinical psychologist. Congratulations! | Finish your high school courses with at least a 3.0 GPA. Enroll in an undergraduate psychology program at an accredited university of your choice. Participate in research projects, internships, and teaching assistant programs as much as possible. Join psychology clubs and stay active with them. Weigh master’s programs in clinical psychology. Study hard once you enter your clinical psychology graduate program. Apply to doctoral programs. Commit to and work hard in your doctoral program. Complete post-doctoral training with a licensed clinical psychologist. Submit the application for a state clinical psychology license. Set up your new practice or discuss staying at your post-doctoral supervisor's practice. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Give-Directions | How to Give Directions | If you need to give someone directions, point out hard-to-miss landmarks in your directions, like bridges, large businesses, churches or synagogues, or anything else which will stand out during the trip. Specify whether landmarks or turns are on the left or right side of the road, and try to give the person an estimate of how far or how long they'll have to travel before their next turn or destination. | Picture yourself going along the route with them. Most people follow directions best when they're given in “route perspective,” which focuses on describing what you'll see along the way and the travel time between these landmarks. If you were in the car or walking alongside the person, think of how you'd point out the route (“Turn right at the big church over here, then we'll go that way for about five minutes…”) and use that to guide how you give the directions. Instead of directing them from beginning to end, think of it as directing them from landmark to landmark. Tell the person about important and hard-to-miss landmarks. Landmarks will give the person an idea of the progress they're making. They'll also let the person know if they're still on the path you advised them to take. Finally, landmarks will draw attention to each segment of the overall route that they're trying to follow. So, for instance: “Go this way for a couple minutes until the old post office with the big metal dome is on your left; then turn left and go for about 5 minutes until you see a McDonald's and Wendy's right across from each other…” Some landmarks to point out include: historic buildings, signs, or monuments; churches, synagogues, or other religious buildings; large businesses like a box store or car dealership; geographical/environmental features like hills or rivers; roadway characteristics like a bridge or a fork in the road. Specify whether something is on the left or right of the road. Don't take for granted that the person knows what side of the road a turn, a landmark, or their destination will be on. To avoid getting the person lost, always specify which side of the street they need to either turn on or look for a landmark on. Make it “look on your left for the gas station with the tiger statue above the sign,” not just “turn when you get to the gas station with the tiger statue.” Provide travel time estimates for the whole trip and each component of it. Specify the how much time the whole trip will take. In addition, specify how much time certain segments of the trip will take. This will give the person an idea of when they need to be ready to take a turn or merge onto a different road. Let the person know that if they're traveling the speed limit, they should be able to arrive at their destination in a certain amount of time. If they'll have to make some turns, tell them how long they'll be on specific roads before they should turn. For example: “The whole trip takes about 10 minutes. You'll turn left here and go for about 3 minutes until…” Create a mental map of the route, and share it. Some people are better at reading maps than others, and these people tend to also do better when given directions that are the verbal equivalent of looking at a map — called “survey perspective.” These are the kind of people who are good at “getting their bearings” and telling which way north is without a compass, and have a good “feel” for estimating that they just drove for two miles. In this case, your directions will sound like the following: “Drive north on Hamilton for a little over 3 miles (4.8 km), then head east on Church Street…” Specify distance from point to point. Include units of distance in every step of your directions. For example, specify how many miles or kilometers the person will stay on a specific road before turning or getting to their destination. City blocks and highway exits are also an acceptable unit of distance to use, even though the exact distance between them varies: “Go two blocks north, then get on the freeway and head west to the fourth exit…” A rough estimate is better than not giving any sense of the distance from one point to another. Refer to the cardinal directions. While it's always a good idea to mention whether something is on the right or left, you should also provide cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) when you explain a route to someone in survey perspective. And even people who do better with route perspective (following landmarks) often have a vehicle or smartphone equipped with a digital compass, and many road signs (like U.S. interstates) indicate a cardinal direction. So: “Turn right at the the light onto 5th street and go south for half a mile, then merge onto route 35 South…” Draw a map. If you're having trouble verbally communicating directions to someone who understands directions better in map format, just sketch out the route for them. A map will allow the person to visualize where they're going. You'll also be able to include details, such as the location of landmarks, on your map. In addition, the map will give the person something to hold on to so they don't forget your directions. The rudimentary map doesn't need to be to scale, but you should write in general mileages and use a general map orientation (that is, with north to the top). Explain the route based on where the person is coming from. Before you start giving directions, you need to ask the person where exactly they're coming from. This is important, as the specifics of your directions will depend on which way they are headed. This isn't an issue if a stranger stops you on the street, but it is important to know whether your mother-in-law will be leaving from her house or her office in the next town over. Give the simplest route. While it may seem tempting to give someone directions to your favorite shortcut, this could wind up doing more harm than good. Instead, give the simplest directions that are least likely to confuse the person. This way, you'll minimize the chance that the person you're giving directions to will get lost. When considering the simplest route: Favor routes with less turns, even if they take a bit longer. Focus on routes where the person can stay on one road for a long time. Pick routes that avoid confusing intersections, roundabouts, or bypasses. Share the safest route. If there are several alternatives available and some of them are particularly dangerous, give the safest route. As someone who is not familiar with the area, the person you're advising won't know the dangers they'll be driving through. Whether it's treacherous terrain, narrow roads, or high crime neighborhoods, take threats to the person's safety into account. The winding back road may save you five minutes versus using the highway, but you've driven that road many times and know all the curves and twists — and they don't. Don’t suggest routes you haven’t taken. Focus only on routes that you are familiar with. Otherwise, you may wind up giving incorrect directions that could get the person lost. A good rule of thumb is to give directions for routes that you are most familiar with, rather than trying to describe a shortcut or another route you don't know as well. Skip “Well, my buddy goes this way…” and stick with “I've gone this way many times, even if it takes a few minutes longer…” Warn the person about confusing parts of the route. If there is a particularly tricky part of the route you're providing, tell the person in detail. In addition, tell them when (time or distance) to expect the confusing part of the route. Some points of confusion could include: Roads that merge with little notice Turns that are very slight Roundabouts Speak slowly and clearly. When giving directions, don't rush. Enunciate every word you say. Take time to explain important factors like potential hazards or detours. If you don't speak slowly and clearly, the person may get confused or may miss an important piece of information. Avoid using words, phrases, or names that only locals will know. Use the names of roads as they're marked on street signs and road maps. Avoid using road names only used by locals. In addition, don't refer to people's homes as landmarks. Any examples you use should be ones that can be recognizable to someone from outside your community. Even if all locals know the highway as the “Parkway East,” refer to it as “I-376 East,” which is what the road signs read. Don’t assume the person knows anything about the area. Even if you think they might be a bit familiar with the place, give directions as if the person knows nothing of local landmarks, main roads, or even the names of roads. Provide all of the information they need to get to their destination. They can always let you know if you're giving more detail than is necessary. Avoid things like “Remember where Joe's old house was? You'll turn right after that” and go with “You'll turn right at the stoplight onto 11th Street, which comes about half a block past where Joe used to live.” Ask the person if they have any questions. Be direct and ask "Do you have any questions about the route?" Asking will allow the person to clarify any part of the route they might not fully understand. In addition, it will give them the opportunity to ask you for the location of any other places they may be interested in visiting. Request that they repeat the directions to you. Suggest that the person summarize the directions you've just given to them. This way, you'll be able to make sure that they understood you completely. Then, if they did misunderstand or mis-hear you, you'll be able to correct them. If they seem to be struggling with the directions you've given in “route perspective” form, consider trying “survey perspective” instead — that is, replacing visual landmarks with mileages and north, south, etc. | Picture yourself going along the route with them. Tell the person about important and hard-to-miss landmarks. Specify whether something is on the left or right of the road. Provide travel time estimates for the whole trip and each component of it. Create a mental map of the route, and share it. Specify distance from point to point. Refer to the cardinal directions. Draw a map. Explain the route based on where the person is coming from. Give the simplest route. Share the safest route. Don’t suggest routes you haven’t taken. Warn the person about confusing parts of the route. Speak slowly and clearly. Avoid using words, phrases, or names that only locals will know. Don’t assume the person knows anything about the area. Ask the person if they have any questions. Request that they repeat the directions to you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Coconut-Oil | How to Use Coconut Oil | Use coconut oil when you're sautéing, pan-frying, or roasting instead of your usual vegetable or canola oil. For a tasty treat, add a spoonful of coconut oil to a cup of tea or coffee, or drop a tablespoon into your favorite smoothie mixture before blending it. You can also use coconut oil in baked goods, like cookies or cakes, to create a richer flavor. Because of its excellent moisturizing properties, use the oil on your skin and hair for a dose of hydration. | Use coconut oil for sautéing, pan frying, or roasting. Since it has a high smoke point and mild flavor, coconut oil is a great choice for a variety of cooking methods. If you're sautéing or pan frying, use an equal amount of coconut oil as whatever other fat the recipe calls for (butter, olive oil, vegetable oil, etc.). To roast vegetables with coconut oil, melt 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of the oil—or whatever amount your recipe calls for—over low heat in a small saucepan, then drizzle it over your veggies on the roasting pan. Season and roast the vegetables according to your chosen recipe. Stir coconut oil into coffee, hot tea, or hot chocolate. Simply make your hot beverage of choice as usual, then stir in 1 tsp (5 ml) of coconut oil before adding any cream or sweetener. The hot liquid will quickly melt the congealed oil. The coconut oil will create a bit of an oily texture (especially on the surface) and impart a mild flavor to the beverage. If you don't care for the results, try replacing half of the coconut oil with unsalted butter (or just cut back on the coconut oil and don't substitute anything else). Is it worth making your morning coffee a bit oily by adding coconut oil? It might be. It's possible, but not certain, that coconut oil may help reduce cholesterol, burn fat, kill harmful bacteria, and improve brain function, among other benefits. Blend coconut oil into your favorite smoothie recipe. Just spoon in 1-2 tbsp (15-30 ml) of coconut oil with the other ingredients and blend them together. Congealed coconut oil may leave small chunks in your smoothie—if this bothers you, melt the coconut oil on the stovetop using low heat, then drizzle it into the smoothie ingredients before blending. Coconut oil tastes great with smoothies that use bananas and other tropical fruits. Substitute coconut oil for other oils when baking. If your baking recipe calls for another liquid oil, like canola or vegetable oil, use an equal amount of melted coconut oil. You probably won't notice any difference in flavor or texture. If you want to substitute coconut oil for a solid fat like shortening, butter, or margarine, use a 1:1 ratio of congealed coconut oil and the other solid fat, but add only 75% of the amount called for in the recipe. For instance, instead of 4 tbsp (60 ml) of butter, add 3 tbsp (45 ml) total of coconut oil and butter—1.5 tbsp (~23 ml) of each. Spread coconut oil on toast or pancakes instead of butter. Coconut oil will soften to a spreadable consistency as it approaches 76 °F (24 °C), at which point you can easily spread it onto a muffin or corn-on-the-cob. It provides a nice change of pace to the taste of butter! Or, try melting 1-2 tbsp (15-30 ml) of coconut oil and drizzling it over your popcorn! Buy coconut oil that is organic, extra virgin, and unprocessed. Use a coconut oil that is as natural and unadulterated as possible. Avoid jars with terms like “bleached,” “hydrogenated,” “refined,” or “deodorized.” The term “cold-pressed” is a good thing to see on the label, though, as this is a natural process for extracting the oil. Look for this coconut oil at stores that sell natural food and health products. It typically comes in a glass jar and looks like a whitish gel or paste. Massage in 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of coconut oil after washing your face. Wash your face with a gentle soap, rinse it with warm water, and pat it dry with a towel. Scoop about 1 tsp (5 ml) of the gelatinous coconut oil on your first two fingers, then massage it into your skin using circular motions. Repeat this process daily. Your body warmth will melt the oil and it will absorb into your skin. Coconut oil works best if you have dry or normal skin. If you have oily skin, choose a different natural product, like argan oil or sunflower oil. Use melted coconut oil in a moisturizing face mask. Melt 1 tbsp (15 ml) of coconut oil over low heat on the stove, then stir it together with half of a mashed banana and a pinch of turmeric. Use your fingers to apply the mask to your face, leave it for 15 minutes, rinse it away with cool water, and pat your face dry. Repeat daily if desired. This mask may help both moisturize your skin and reduce acne breakouts. Bananas may help add moisture, while turmeric may offer anti-inflammatory properties. Scoop about 1 tbsp (15 ml) of congealed coconut oil onto your fingers. If you have short hair, you may only need half of this amount. Buy organic, extra virgin, unprocessed coconut oil from a health food retailer for this application. Store the coconut oil in its glass jar at a temperature below 76 °F (24 °C); this will keep it in its congealed form. Melt the coconut oil over low heat, or in your hands. Put the scoop of oil in a small saucepan and place it over low heat on the stove. Let it cool enough that you can comfortably handle the oil. Alternatively, you can melt small amounts of the coconut oil in your hands while you massage it into your hair. Massage the oil into your hair, section by section. If you have long hair, divide it into sections with a comb and hair clips. Then, dip your fingers into the melted oil and use your fingertips to massage it in from the roots to the tips of the hair in each section. If you're using unmelted coconut oil, scoop up just enough to work into the section of hair you're working on, rub it between your fingers for 15-30 seconds until it melts, and massage it in with your fingertips. Wait at least 30 minutes before shampooing out the coconut oil. If possible, wait at least 2 hours before washing out the coconut oil—this will give it more time to absorb into your hair. When you're ready, just use your typical shampoo to wash your hair, then rinse and dry as normal. You can even keep the coconut oil in overnight. Just make sure you put a towel down on your pillow so it doesn't end up stained. You might also want to put on a shower cap overnight. Remove stains with coconut oil and baking soda. Thoroughly mix equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda—for instance, 1 US cup (240 ml) of each. Apply the mixture to stains on carpeting, walls, and other surfaces with a cloth, leave it for 5-10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth. Like any stain remover, this may cause damage or discoloration to some surfaces. Test it on an inconspicuous area—like the corner of the carpet under the end table—before applying it to the stain. Make a coconut oil furniture polish. Melt 4 tbsp (60 g) of coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Mix in 4 tbsp (60 ml) of white vinegar and 2 tsp (10 ml) of lemon juice, then add it to a spray bottle. Shake the bottle, spray a light coating of the mixture on your wood furniture, and buff it off with a clean, soft cloth. Test the cleaner on a hidden area of the furniture first, just in case it reacts with the finish and causes staining or discoloration. Use the mixture right away, since the coconut oil will congeal if it cools below 76 °F (24 °C). Clean and condition leather with straight coconut oil. Scoop a fingertip-sized amount of coconut oil onto a clean cloth. Work it into the leather item using a circular rubbing motion, leaving behind only a thin, shiny film of oil. Add more coconut oil to a clean section of the cloth as needed. Test the coconut oil on a small spot of the leather first. There's a small chance it may discolor your favorite leather jacket or sofa! Lift away sticky residue by rubbing on coconut oil. Scoop a small amount of coconut oil onto a cloth and rub it into the sticky spot. The oil should cause the sticky residue to release and lift away. Wipe the area with a damp cloth if needed. Try this on a sticky spot on your carpet, or to remove tacky residue left behind by a price tag or other sticker. Like always, test the coconut oil on an inconspicuous area first. | Use coconut oil for sautéing, pan frying, or roasting. Stir coconut oil into coffee, hot tea, or hot chocolate. Blend coconut oil into your favorite smoothie recipe. Substitute coconut oil for other oils when baking. Spread coconut oil on toast or pancakes instead of butter. Buy coconut oil that is organic, extra virgin, and unprocessed. Massage in 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of coconut oil after washing your face. Use melted coconut oil in a moisturizing face mask. Scoop about 1 tbsp (15 ml) of congealed coconut oil onto your fingers. Melt the coconut oil over low heat, or in your hands. Massage the oil into your hair, section by section. Wait at least 30 minutes before shampooing out the coconut oil. Remove stains with coconut oil and baking soda. Make a coconut oil furniture polish. Clean and condition leather with straight coconut oil. Lift away sticky residue by rubbing on coconut oil. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Stray-Dogs-Away-from-Backyard | How to Keep Stray Dogs Away from Backyard | To keep stray dogs away from your backyard, make sure your trash is tightly bagged and canned, and that you're not leaving pet food outside, which can attract dogs. You can also sprinkle black or cayenne pepper around your yard, which dogs dislike. Additionally, try planting marigolds in your yard, as dogs don't like the smell. Alternatively, purchase liquid fence at a home improvement store and spray it around the perimeter of your yard to create a barrier that dogs won't want to cross. | Don’t leave your pets’ food outside. A sure way to attract stray dogs to your yard is to leave your own pets' food outside where strays can smell and get to it. Most strays will be hungry and looking for food. If you feed your pets outside, make sure you bring leftover food into the house once your pets are finished. Keep trash tightly bagged and canned. Strays might also look for food by digging through your trash. Bag all of the trash that you take outside and make sure your garbage cans' lids are replaced tightly after you put bags of trash in them. Garbage cans that have locking handles are probably your best bet, because they also prevent strays from trying to pop off garbage can lids that are less secure. Plant marigolds. Dogs dislike the smell of marigolds, so planting some in your yard or garden can encourage strays to stay away from your yard. Marigolds also repel certain types of bugs and pests, so planting them can pull the double duty of repelling stray dogs as well as other critters. Spay any female dogs that you own. When a female dog goes into heat, her scent will attract male dogs from miles around. To prevent this, you can spay your dog. Spaying your dog will also reduce your dog's risk for cancer and mammary tumors. Install a fence. The best way to create a barrier to your yard is to put up a fence. Most strays won't jump a fence to get into your yard (although some might) and it also prevents your own animals from getting loose or coming into contact with unknown animals. The size of your fence will depend a lot on the size of the strays wandering into your yard, as well as the size of your own animals. If you're not crazy about the idea of looking at a fence all day, or if it's just simply not a financial possibility for you, you can also try liquid fence. Liquid fence is a spray that you can purchase for just over ten dollars at most home improvement stores. The scents in the spray repel dogs and can therefore create a barrier to your yard without the cost of installing an actual fence. Install a sonic dog repellent device. A sonic repellent device works by emitting high-frequency sounds that dogs can hear but humans can't. Some versions are motion activated so when a stray dog (or other animal) wanders into your yard, the device emits a sound that will drive the strays away. Keep in mind that this is not a good choice if you have dogs or other pets of your own. If you let them into the yard, they'll set off the device and have to deal with those high-pitched sounds themselves. Set up a motion-activated sprayer. Like a motion-activated sonic device, a motion-activated sprayer will turn on when strays enter your yard. Spraying dogs with water is a eco-friendly option for keeping strays out of your yard. If you have pets (or kids) of your own, keep in mind that they'll get sprayed, too, so you might want to try a different option if this is an issue for you. Spray the edge of your yard with vinegar. Dogs are repelled by the smell of vinegar, so spraying the edge of your yard with white or apple cider vinegar can help create a barrier that keeps strays out. Just pour some vinegar into a spray bottle and walk the perimeter of your yard, spraying the grass as you go. Keep in mind that depending on the size of your yard, you'll be able to smell the vinegar after you spray it. You might not want to use this method right before you're going to be using your yard. Sprinkle black pepper or cayenne pepper on your property. Sprinkling small amounts of black or cayenne pepper in your yard will make it less appealing to strays. Dogs use their keen sense of smell and taste to assess most situations. If they come across a patch of black or cayenne pepper, and either sniff or lick at it, they'll learn to stay away from your yard. Use very small amounts of pepper for this. However annoying strays are, you don't want to cause permanent damage to them by leaving out huge mounds of pepper that can burn their noses or mouths. Avoid confrontation. If a stray dog does get into your yard, avoid confronting it. Don't try to chase it out of your yard on your own, and do not try to touch it. Strays are likely to carry diseases and can be more aggressive than domesticated dogs. Call Animal Control or ASPCA. If a stray does get into your yard, call your local animal shelter or police department's animal control unit. Animal control officers and animal shelter employees are specially trained to deal with stray and/or aggressive animals. They can remove the stray from your yard without any injury to themselves or the strays. Use a trap. If Animal Control can't get to your home right away, you can purchase a trap that you bait with food. If a stray wanders back into your yard, and ends up in the trap, you can keep the stray contained until an Animal Control officer or someone from an animal shelter can come get the stray. These traps are generally pretty humane and won't injure the strays in any way. Call the dog’s owners. Sometimes strays aren't homeless dogs at all – they're just free-roaming dogs that might be owned by your neighbors. See if you can figure out who the owner is – you might be able to see the owner's phone number on the dog's collar or you might recognize the dog. Once you know who the dog belongs to, contact the owner and let them know that their dog is frequently in your yard and ask them if they can keep their pet better contained. | Don’t leave your pets’ food outside. Keep trash tightly bagged and canned. Plant marigolds. Spay any female dogs that you own. Install a fence. Install a sonic dog repellent device. Set up a motion-activated sprayer. Spray the edge of your yard with vinegar. Sprinkle black pepper or cayenne pepper on your property. Avoid confrontation. Call Animal Control or ASPCA. Use a trap. Call the dog’s owners. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Smooth-Legs | How to Get Smooth Legs | To get smooth legs, start by using a loofah and exfoliating cream in the shower to remove dead skin cells. Next, grab a fresh razor, apply shaving cream, and shave up your legs, against the grain, to get the closest shave. Don't forget the areas around your ankles and knees! Then, rinse your legs with cool water, pat them dry, and follow up with a thick layer of lotion to keep your skin soft and hydrated! | Get the water going. Make sure the shower (or bath) is warm to open pores, which will give you a closer shave. Avoid using hot water, which can dry out your skin and increase risks of razor burn. Take your usual shower, or bath, to allow the leg hair to soften. You want to give your legs a solid 5 minutes or so taking in the hydration. So go about your routine, shampooing, conditioning, and hit your legs last. And if your shower doesn't have a nice ledge to prop your foot on, hop out of the shower and start shaving while your legs are still wet. Exfoliate your legs. Use a loofah and an exfoliating cream to remove dead skin cells and align your hairs. This is very important ; exfoliating reduces your likelihood of getting ingrown hairs. It will help your skin be clear and your leg hairs will be as exposed as possible for a close shave. You can use an exfoliating body wash or, if you're feeling crafty, you could make your own sugar scrub ! Just scrub it on, taking your time, wherever you want to shave and rinse it off. Apply shaving cream. Squirt a nice, plump dollop into your hand and lather up on your legs as if it were shampoo. Be sure to cover every spot, including down to the ankle. Create a light layer over your leg; too thick a layer can clog your razor. If you don't have shaving cream, you can always use soap, conditioner, shampoo, body wash, or shower gel. However, do note that shaving cream is best -- especially the moisturizing kind with aloe or jojoba. Gels are great for reducing cuts and nicks, but lotions take the crown when it comes to hydrating. The only time you should not be using shaving cream is if it comes built-in on your razor. Otherwise you have to, have to, have to use some type of protection for your skin against the blade. Use a fresh razor to shave your legs. Most run-of-the-mill razors are good for about 5 times, depending on how well you take care of them. But your best shave will be when the razor is brand spanking new. Shave up your legs, against the grain for a close shave. For a shave that has minimal risk of bumps and burn, shave with the grain. And you're best off taking short strokes; the razor becomes more ineffective as the strokes get longer, leading to more missed hairs. Rinse the razor under a stream of water after each stroke. Be sure to tackle around the ankles and knees, adding extra shaving cream as necessary on these tricky spots. Rinse your legs with cool water. Cool water will close the pores (keep this is mind for the hair on your head, too!). Pat your legs dry, taking care not to rub them vigorously. Take the time now to inspect your legs. If there's a place you missed, you can go back and do it now. The worst is finding a patch when you're already out and about! Apply a thick layer of lotion. Use a thick moisturizer, such as body butter, if you have particularly dry skin. Rub in a generous amount, concentrating on the ankles and knees once again to keep them supple. This stage should also not be skipped -- you just took a blade to your legs, for Pete's sake! Give them back some moisture by rubbing on some lotion. Try getting a wax. While it hurts a lot more than shaving (unless you cut yourself badly, of course), the results last much, much longer. You'll have smooth legs for weeks -- none of this one or two day crap you get with shaving. If you find shaving to be a drag, waxing may be your best bet. And good news! Many women say it gets less and less painful each time you do it. So bite the bullet now -- it'll pay off later. Don't want to break the bank? Make your own at-home sugar wax and do it yourself! Experiment with depilatory creams. Technology is getting better and better and, thankfully, depilatory creams are, too. It used to be that they reeked like roadkill in a broken refrigerator and didn't really work, anyway. Now there are creams that smell like a field of daisies and can get your legs hairless down to the root. And it's much cheaper than getting a wax at a salon! If you have sensitive skin, this probably isn't the way to go. There are harsh chemicals that eat away at your hairs -- obviously not the best route for skin that's delicate. Invest in an electric epilator. They're a little expensive and a little painful, but it's a possible alternative. Electric epilators are devices that yank out the hairs from the root in groups, like a large, super-effective pair of tweezers. And because the hair is being taken out at the root, your legs are smoother for a lot longer than they would be if you just shaved. If you're serious, consider laser hair removal. If none of these options trips your trigger and you've got a wad of cash you need to get rid of, why not do laser hair removal? Sometimes it's painful and usually more than one round under the beam is necessary, but imagine never having to worry about shaving again. Bliss! Sometimes it's not always permanent -- you may have to go back for fix-ups, kind of like taking your car to the mechanic. While this method sounds almost magical, there are definite drawbacks that need to be considered before taking action. Talk to your dermatologist beforehand. | Get the water going. Exfoliate your legs. Apply shaving cream. Use a fresh razor to shave your legs. Rinse your legs with cool water. Apply a thick layer of lotion. Try getting a wax. Experiment with depilatory creams. Invest in an electric epilator. If you're serious, consider laser hair removal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Edit-Videos | How to Edit Videos | To edit a video, you'll need special software that usually comes pre-installed on your computer, like iMovie or Windows Movie Maker. Once you know which software you plan on using, open it to start a new project, and import the film clips you want to use. Then, drag and drop the clips into your timeline in the order you want them to appear. When your timeline is complete, trim the clips and splice them together using the cut tool. You can then add titles, effects, and transitions to make your video more polished and professional. | Choose the right editing software. There are a lot of video editing programs out there, ranging from professional programs with tons of features (Avid, Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro) to free programs that come pre-installed on most computers (iMovie, Windows Movie Maker). While free software is becoming more robust every year, you should think about buying a professional program if you plan on doing more than a few home-movies or simple presentations. Almost all programs have free trials that allow you to test them out before buying. Currently, Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro are considered "industry standard" programs. You'll need to know them to become a professional video editor. Learn the basics of your editing interface. While different programs have different features, the basics of most software are pretty similar. Even simple programs have a lot of tools and buttons, but there are three main parts to every video program that you must know: The Timeline: This is where you order, edit, and trim your footage into the final video. Sometimes known as a "sequencer" or "storyboard editor" this is where you do the majority of your work. Most programs show both audio and video in the timeline. It is usually near the bottom of your window The Preview Screen: This is where you watch the draft of your movie while you edit. It usually starts out as a black box with play, rewind, and stop buttons underneath it. It is usually in the upper right quadrant. The Library/Collection: This is where all of your imported audio, video, and pictures are sorted, allowing you to drag and drop them into your timeline for editing. It usually comes with a search function and some labeling tools. It is usually on the left side of the window. Other sections might include audio controls, a "toolbox," special effects, a place to add titles, and a second video screen to check imported footage. Know the essential tools for editing. Though each program has different names for them, there are only a handful of tools that are mandatory for basic editing. Hover over an icon to see what it is named in your program. Pointer: Usually a standard mouse click icon, the pointer can do everything from trimming footage to moving and deleting clips to adding sound effects. Razor/Cut: Usually designated by a straight razor icon, this chops the footage in your timeline into two separate clips wherever you click. Zoom: Allows you to make closer, more accurate cuts to your video by zooming into the timeline Rolling Edits: Usually two or three separate tools, these make changes to a clip and then move all other clips to make room for your new change. Ex. If you shorten a clip, it automatically lines up the clips following it with the new length. Play around with your program to learn about other features. Before starting any project you should tinker with your software and learn as many tools as you can. Import some old footage and make a quick practice video, then browse the internet for free tutorials or tips. The internet is a fantastic place to learn how to edit, and there are countless videos and tutorials for even highly specific editing questions. Enroll in a class at a local college or art studio to get detailed instruction if you feel lost. Organize your footage. Whether you are making a simple home-movie or the next blockbuster, well organized footage is crucial to prevent loss, streamline your editing process, and help other team members jump into the project without confusion. Though it may be a hassle at first, thoroughly labeling and filing your video footage will save countless headaches later on. Organize folders by project and the date it was shot. Ex. My_Movie_Project_3-22-15 Organize clips by scene and take. Ex. My_Movie_Project_Scene1_Take4 Consider advanced organization software like Adobe Bridge if you are working on large scale projects and need complex labeling and meta-data functions. Open your editing software and create a new project. Depending on your footage several options will appear here, but standard digital video quality will be 720x480 or 1080x720 (High Definition) at 29.97 frames per second. These settings are called NTSC standard and are used primarily in North America. If you are in doubt, ask the cinematographer or director what settings they shot the video on. If you're still lost, look up your camera's settings on the internet -- it should tell you what sort of video you are editing. Many modern programs will automatically conform project settings to your footage, eliminating this headache for less experienced editors. Import your footage. Though all programs are different, you can usually bring your film clips into the project under File-->Import. This does not make your movie or order your clips, it simply tells the program which videos you will be editing and allows you to access them. Some programs let you drag and drop footage from another window into your editing window. Importing footage allows for Non-Linear-Editing (NLE): the process of editing video out of order without changing the original footage. All modern editing is Non-Linear. Arrange clips by dragging and dropping them into your timeline. Start building the skeleton of your movie by ordering your clips and choosing which shots you like the most. You can always drag clips into new spots after you place them, so feel free to experiment. Start working on a few minutes of the video at a time to prevent becoming overwhelmed. Splice the scenes together. Once you have the scenes in order you need to trim the beginning and ends so they line up cohesively. While sometimes this is as easy as eliminating the initial "Action!" you'll have to make artistic decisions here too. To splice, find the "razor" or cut tool to break the footage up into smaller parts, then delete the parts you don't like from the timeline. Many programs let you drag the beginnings and ends of clips to shorten or lengthen them. Never permanently delete any footage-- you never know what will come in handy, even if only for the "blooper reel!" Add transitions, effects, and titles once you're happy with the footage. Though these are essential to most movies, they can only be effective once you have the footage completely organized and cut. Most programs have dedicated windows and menus for titles and transitions, and you should play around to see which fit your project. The most common transitions are "fade-ins" and "fade-outs," which is when the image slowly appears or disappears from the screen. For more complicated special effects, transitions, or animations, editors often rely on separate post-production programs like Adobe After Effects. Adjust the color and sound of your movie to your liking. Not all movies need to take this step, but if you want to look professional you'll need to balance audio and video so that the shots all look alike and there are no jarring volume shifts. Luckily, many programs have an "auto color-correct" function and "volume equalizer" built in. For a professional looking film you'll need to do this manually, or hire someone who knows how. Stop and watch your movie at various points. You may have to repeat this step five, ten, or even fifty times depending on the project, and it will feel tedious. Invite friends, coworkers, or other crew members to watch the project with you and give feedback. Take notes every time you watch it about what you want to fix. Taking a few days away from the project before watching can help glean new insights. Streamline your workflow by learning hotkeys and shortcuts. The best editors spend less time doing the actual edits than thinking creatively about the edit itself. Print out a list of your program's hotkeys and shortcuts and learn to use them effectively. Make templates for your favorite effects and titles so you can use them instantly. Learn how to use Multi-Cam editing, which allows you to easily cut between multiple cameras shooting the same scene. Know how to use different types of cuts. Editing is the art of telling a story through cuts, or the juxtaposition of one shot before another. You should experiment with different types of cuts and transitions to find what works for your video. No matter what you use, usually the best cuts are the ones that feel seamless. Hard Cut -- an immediate cut to another angle, usually in the same scene. This is the most common cut in film. Smash Cut - An abrupt shift to completely different scene. Jump Cut -- An abrupt cut made within the same scene, often of a slightly different angle. J-Cut -- When you hear the audio from the next shot before you see the video. L-Cut -- When you see the video from the next shot before you hear the audio. Action Cut -- A cut in the middle of an action, like someone opening a door, that "hides" the cut in the action. Think about your creative goals while editing. Though extremely technical, editing video is an art form and your paintbrushes are cuts, colors, and sounds. When you make an edit, ask yourself if that choice supports the creative goals of the movie. Discuss the following with the film's director frequently while you work: Pacing -- how quickly does the scene need to progress? Comedies are often fast so a lot of jokes can be fit in. Thrillers or dramas, however, tend feel slower to build tension. Perspective -- do you want to highlight one particular character or many? In Scorsese's classic Goodfellas, for example, every shot concerns or includes the narrator Henry Hill, while movies like The Lord of the Rings often cuts to large group scenes. Themes -- is there a certain style or idea that the director has in mind? Are there certain lines of dialogue, images, or colors that should be prominently shown every chance you have? Use longer shots and make less cuts to build tension or highlight key moments. When the viewer is asked to watch the same image or camera angle for a long period of time, it slows down the scene and give us more time to get into the moment. This is helpful when establishing drama or calling attention to a moment's importance. One recent example is the editing in 12 Years a Slave, where very long takes gave the viewer a feeling for the slow, difficult years the protagonist endured. Use shorter shots and frequent cuts to give a scene a quick pace and energy. Comedy and action in particular benefit from rapid-fire editing and very short shots. Cut between every line of dialogue or each action to give a scene urgency, as viewers feel like they are "along for the ride." Moving too quickly through edits can feel frantic, but this may work if the scene is high-pressure or nervous, like in scenes from the sci-fi film Snowpiercer. Study other editors and films. Just like any other creative endeavor, watching and critiquing other artists is essential to becoming a good editor yourself. Study your favorite scenes, TV shows, and movies with an eye towards shot selection, shot length, and frequency of cuts. Ask yourself why an editor made the decision they made-- how does it help advance the video? What examples of editing do you like or admire? A good place to start might be recent Oscar winners for Editing or Vimeo's "Best Of" videos. When you see something you like, try to emulate it to learn how it was done. | Choose the right editing software. Learn the basics of your editing interface. Know the essential tools for editing. Play around with your program to learn about other features. Organize your footage. Open your editing software and create a new project. Import your footage. Arrange clips by dragging and dropping them into your timeline. Splice the scenes together. Add transitions, effects, and titles once you're happy with the footage. Adjust the color and sound of your movie to your liking. Stop and watch your movie at various points. Streamline your workflow by learning hotkeys and shortcuts. Know how to use different types of cuts. Think about your creative goals while editing. Use longer shots and make less cuts to build tension or highlight key moments. Use shorter shots and frequent cuts to give a scene a quick pace and energy. Study other editors and films. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Replace-Countertops | How to Replace Countertops | To replace countertops, first detach all energy supply lines and remove the sink, range, and old countertops. Next, cut your new countertops to the correct size, set the countertops down, and cut out the shapes of the appliances. After that, bolt the countertop pieces together, slide them against the wall, and scribe the backsplash. Then, sand the countertop down to the scribe line, caulk the miter joints, and screw the countertops to the cabinets. Finally, use caulk to secure the countertops, sink, and range, and use contact cement to add laminate strips to the edges. | Detach the water and gas supply lines. First, turn off the lines by finding the shutoff valves under the sink and range or by turning off the main valve in the basement. Use pliers to twist the ring-shaped nuts to remove the drain pipe and p-trap. Place a bucket under the pipes to catch any water left in them. If you have a garbage disposal unit attached to your sink, don't forget to unplug the cord from the outlet. Loosen the mounting screws and caulk to remove the sink and range. Look underneath the sink or range to find screwed clamps securing these features to the countertops. Use a screwdriver to loosen these, then slice the caulk around the top of the sink or range with a utility knife. Once finished, push the sink or range from the bottom to lift it off the countertop. Make sure the unit is off to the unit if you're removing an electric range. Disconnect the power wires in the metal box behind the range to pull the range out. Slice through the caulking on countertops with wall backsplashes. If your countertop has a backsplash secured to the wall, it'll also have caulking. Hold your utility knife vertically. Run the tip through the caulking all the way to the other end of the backsplash. Detach the fasteners on the old countertops. Remove the drawers and cabinet doors and look at the underside of your countertop. Locate the screws fastening the wood supports and cabinets. Undo these screws to free the countertop and move it from the wooden supports. Stubborn countertops, particularly older ones installed incorrectly, need to be pried off the countertops with a pry bar. Pry up 1 inch (2.5 cm) and then move 12 inches (30 cm) down the length of your countertop until you reach the end. Then you can use a larger pry bar to lift the entire countertop. You may also slip a reciprocal saw between the countertop and cabinets to cut screws and nails. To avoid damaging the countertops, be careful and work as slowly as possible. Avoid cutting into the countertop from above when using a saw. Many marble or granite countertops are only put on with adhesives rather than screwed in. Measure the space required for the countertops. Run a tape measure along the space where the countertop will rest. If you have your old countertops on hand, they may serve as a useful guide. Note the dimensions the countertops need to be. When building around a corner in your room, plan on connecting 2 countertops cut diagonally. Adjust your measurements to fit these pieces. Cut the countertops to size. Put on safety goggles and a dust mask first to protect yourself from flying shards and material particles. For synthetic countertops like laminate, use a fine-tooth handsaw or jigsaw to fashion the countertops. Placing masking tape over the cutting lines can reduce splintering. To save time, order the countertops pre-cut. Measure your space before placing the order. You may still need to make some cuts to fit the countertops once you have them. Trace the sink and range space on the countertop. You may want to set the countertop in place first to get a better idea of where these features need to go. Flip the sink or range over, then use a pencil to trace around their perimeter. Trace a second outline ⁄ 2 in (1.3 cm) inside the first one on all sides. Your sink or range may have come with a template to be used when sketching the outline. If it doesn't, use posterboard or cardboard to trace your own sink or range template. The trace lines can be hard to see against dark countertops. Place masking tape first and trace over it to make the lines more visible. Cut out the sink or range space. Get your saw and put on your safety gear again. The part you want to cut is the second, smaller outline. Drill holes large enough to fit your saw blade in each corner of your countertop. Cut all the way around the outline and clear away the excess material. File down the cuts until they’re smooth. A metal file or sander works well. Go across each cut, filing in one direction only. Be sure to get the inside of the countertop where you cut the space for the sink or range. When the edges feel smooth and safe to the touch, you're ready to move on. Check to see that the countertops fit over the cabinets. Place the countertops on the wooden supports or measure their front edges. If they're not high enough, the front will overhang and block the cabinet doors. You'll need to add build-up strips. Measure and cut build-up strips out of wood. These strips are easily made at home with 1 in × 2 in (2.5 cm × 5.1 cm) lumber. Measure along the countertop's back and sides. The build-up strips run from back to front and need to be installed every 2 ft (0.61 m) along the countertop's length. Some countertops come packaged with these strips, so you won't have to make them yourself. Lay the build-up strips on top of the cabinets. Start at one end of the cabinet structure where the countertop will rest. Measure 2 in (5.1 cm) from the end and lay the first strip. Its ends should rest on the front and back edges of the cabinet. Continue laying these strips every 2 ft (0.61 m). Remember to keep the end strips 2 in (5.1 cm) from the cabinet's edge. Fasten the strips in place with screws. Drill a hole in both ends of the strips, directly over the cabinet frame. Place 1 ⁄ 4 in (3.2 cm) drywall screws in each hole. Turn the screws with a cordless screwdriver to secure the strips in place. Fit the countertop pieces together. Lay them on top of the build-ups and ensure they connect smoothly. In particular, pay attention to where 2 pieces of countertop meet. Make any adjustments you need by reducing the size of the build-up strips or the countertops themselves. Bolt the countertop pieces together. Pre-cut countertops should come with miter bolts to fasten the countertop pieces together. Place the miter bolts in the miter joins on the undersides of the countertops, then twist the end of the bolt to secure everything in place. If you cut the countertops yourself, make miter joints first to fit the countertops together. These can be tricky to make, so consider hiring a professional. Another way to connect countertop pieces is to get an aluminum joining strip from the store. Cut it to size, then screw it to the side of the countertop. Slide the other countertop piece into the joining strip's groove. Slide the countertops back against the wall. Make sure the countertops are securely bolted together first. Push them all the way back and gauge how much of a gap remains between the countertop and wall. Most likely, you'll notice a gap that needs to be fixed. Scribe the backsplash. Lay masking tape over the top of the backsplash. Get a scribing tool, and find the largest gap between the countertop and wall. Lay the tool flat against the wall and adjust the pencil end so the tip is on the edge of the tape. Keep the scribing tool at this length and draw the line all the way across the tape. The countertop should be as level and close to the wall as possible. You may need to add shims under the counter or scribe and sand the cabinet's sides to do this. Sand the countertop down to the scribe line. Undo the bolts underneath the counter. Pull the pieces out and get an 80-grip belt sander. Wear down the back part of the counter to the line you traced. Hold the sander flat at all times. Repeat sanding until the countertop is flat against the wall. Reattach the bolts to hold the countertops in place. Push them against the wall and measure them again with the scribing tool. You may need to sand 1 or more times to eliminate unsightly gaps larger than ⁄ 16 inch (4.8 mm). Caulk the miter joints to secure the countertops together. You'll need to undo the miter bolts one last time. Slide the countertops apart. Apply a bead of silicone caulk along the miter joints on the countertop edges. Then push the countertops together and secure the bolt in place one last time. When using aluminum strips instead of miter joints, you won't need to do this, so enjoy skipping the extra work. Screw the countertops to the cabinets. The easiest way to do this is to drill up through the build-up strips. Apply the screws so they enter but don't exit the countertop. For extra support, place small angle brackets along the build-up strips. Screw the brackets into the countertop and the cabinets to hold them in place. 1 ⁄ 4 in (32 mm) drywall screws are commonly used for this. Double-check the thickness of your countertop and build-up strips and get longer or shorter screws as needed. To prevent any damage to the countertops, measure the countertop depth first. You can then measure that far down from the tip of your drill bit and place a piece of tape there to show you when to stop. Place caulk along the backsplash. Finish sealing the countertop by securing the backsplash to the wall. Squeeze a bead of caulk into the gap and move the caulk gun all the way across the backsplash in one motion. Moisten a rag and use it to smooth out the caulk. Silicone latex caulk is the best choice since it's both water-resistant and paintable. Seal the sink and range in place with caulk. Flip these objects over and find your tube of silicone caulk. Spread a bead of the caulk all around the edge of the sink or range. When finished, carefully pick up the object and lay it into the hole you cut earlier. Wipe away any excess caulk with a rag. Cut the laminate side strips to fit the countertop’s edges. These strips should be included with the countertop. If they haven't been pre-cut, measure the length of the free edges of the countertops. Snip the strip to size with a pair of scissors. Use contact cement to glue the side strips in place. Brush a layer of contact cement over the backs of the side strips. Wait about 20 minutes for the glue to feel dry to the touch. Press the strips to the countertop's edges to hold them in place. It helps to place a towel over the countertop to avoid getting the glue on it. File down the laminate strips. Before you begin, place a towel over the countertop to avoid damaging it. Hold a metal file flat against the towel and carefully wear down the excess on the strips. Take your time getting the strips to blend in so you avoid scratching your new countertop. | Detach the water and gas supply lines. Loosen the mounting screws and caulk to remove the sink and range. Slice through the caulking on countertops with wall backsplashes. Detach the fasteners on the old countertops. Measure the space required for the countertops. Cut the countertops to size. Trace the sink and range space on the countertop. Cut out the sink or range space. File down the cuts until they’re smooth. Check to see that the countertops fit over the cabinets. Measure and cut build-up strips out of wood. Lay the build-up strips on top of the cabinets. Fasten the strips in place with screws. Fit the countertop pieces together. Bolt the countertop pieces together. Slide the countertops back against the wall. Scribe the backsplash. Sand the countertop down to the scribe line. Repeat sanding until the countertop is flat against the wall. Caulk the miter joints to secure the countertops together. Screw the countertops to the cabinets. Place caulk along the backsplash. Seal the sink and range in place with caulk. Cut the laminate side strips to fit the countertop’s edges. Use contact cement to glue the side strips in place. File down the laminate strips. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Out-of-a-Gym-Contract | How to Get Out of a Gym Contract | Ending a gym contract can be a long and frustrating process, but you can get out of your contract by knowing your rights and sending a notarized letter. Next time you go to the gym, ask the front desk for a copy of your contract. Once you have the contract, look at the cancellation policy and note any loopholes that might let you leave mid-contract. In addition to analyzing your contract, research your country's laws that regulate gyms and look for legal reasons to exit. For example, you may be able to end your contract if you are injured and can't work out or you moved over 25 miles away. When you have a legal excuse, send your gym a notarized letter that formally requests your gym cancellation and explains your reasoning. If you need to find a notary, do a quick internet search for local notary publics. | Request a copy of your contract. Contracts contain pertinent information about the terms of your gym membership. When signing a contract of any kind, you should always request a copy of the legally binding form for your records. If you did not receive a copy of your gym contract or have since lost the document, request a copy from your club or gym. Your club or gym should not deny this request. Read the fine print. Gym contracts contain clauses that state the company's cancellation policy. In order to comprehend what the process of severing your contract entails, you will need to carefully read and decipher your gym's cancellation policy. Note any technicalities that may prevent you from terminating the contract and any loopholes that may allow you to leave mid-contract. Every gym's cancellation policy is slightly different. If you are confused by any part of the contract, ask for clarification. Know your rights. The majority of countries have laws that regulate gyms. These laws may provide you with a valid reason to sever your contract. Study the specific set of laws that regulates your gym. Often, you may legally terminate your contract if: You are still within the grace period of your contract. You are injured and can not work out. You may need a doctor's note to show to your gym. You have moved over 25 miles away and can't transfer membership to another branch. The facility has never or no longer offers the services presented to you prior to signing up or listed in your contract. In the United Kingdom, you may legally terminate your contract if you have lost your job or source of income. You can access these laws online by searching “gyms” and “[your state or nation] law.” In the United States, health clubs and gyms are regulated by the individual states. In the United Kingdom, health clubs are regulated by national laws. Provide your basic information. In order to terminate a contract, many gyms require members to submit a notarized letter of cancellation. This is a letter signed by an official notary public. When writing the letter, be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number. You must also list your gym account number. Formally request to cancel your membership. To prevent any potential misunderstandings, clearly state the terms of your cancellation in the letter. State the date by which you intend to cancel your membership. Provide a brief account of your reason(s) for canceling your membership. Acknowledge the gym's cancellation policy and your adherence to it (are you within your right to cancel, will you pay the cancellation fee or are you eligible for a waiver, etc.). "I am writing to inform you that I intend to [cancel or not renew] my gym membership on [enter date]." "I wish to [cancel or not renew] my membership because [enter reason(s)]." "Under the terms of my contract, I need to [cancel or renew] my membership within [enter time limit]. As stated in the contract, I will [return my [membership card, clean out my locker, etc.]" Ask for confirmation and additional information. In closing, request that the company notify you when it received your statement. Ask the company to confirm that you are following the correct procedure. If you are not following the correct procedure, ask them to provide you with additional information. "Upon receiving my letter, please notify me." "If I am not complying with your terms of cancellation, please inform me of the correct procedures." Notarize and submit your letter. Find a local notary to sign your letter of cancellation. Fill out the envelope with the gym's address and your return information. Post the letter. A quick internet search will provide you with a list of notary publics near you. Freeze your contract. If you are temporarily away from home, injured, sick, or too busy to work out, consider freezing your gym contract instead of canceling it. Meet with a gym manager to discuss the possibility of temporarily freezing your membership. Explain your situation and your desire to renew, or unfreeze, your membership at a later date. Consider freezing your contract if you have: Moved into a building with a gym. Started traveling regularly for work. Transfer the membership to another person. Rather than going through the hassle of canceling your membership, consider transferring your membership to someone else. Today, online forums take the stress out of finding a person to assume your contract. Once you have sold your membership, you and the buyer will need to work with gym staff to transfer the contract. Transferring your membership to another patron typically costs between 0 to 50 dollars. Begin this process by finding an online service that provides individuals with a virtual space to sell, transfer, and buy memberships. A quick internet search will provide you with a list of reputable services. Once you have selected a service you are comfortable with, follow the instructions on the site to create your posting. Hire a cancellation service. Many people do not have the time, patience, or energy to jump through all of the hoops required to cancel their gym membership. Instead of begrudgingly paying a steep gym membership fee every month, hire a third-party cancellation service to terminate your contract. For a fee, these experienced companies take the hassle out of ending your gym membership. Prior to paying for this service, research the company you intend to use. To assess a company: Find its physical address Read reviews on other sites Read through its terms and conditions carefully. Dispute your monthly payments. It is preferable to pay for the fees of your gym membership with a credit card. When you pay with a credit card, you have the option to dispute charges. If a your gym continues to charge you for a membership you have cancelled or is overcharging you, contact your credit card company and explain why the charge is unfair. While investigating your claims, the credit card company may freeze your payments. If it finds that your claims are justified, they may reverse the payment. | Request a copy of your contract. Read the fine print. Know your rights. Provide your basic information. Formally request to cancel your membership. Ask for confirmation and additional information. Notarize and submit your letter. Freeze your contract. Transfer the membership to another person. Hire a cancellation service. Dispute your monthly payments. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Organize-Your-Day | How to Organize Your Day | To organize your day, start by writing down everything you want and need to do that day. Then, estimate how long each activity will take you and cut any activities that you don't have time for. Next, come up with a schedule for the day, starting with the things that are non-negotiable, like work, school, or meetings, and fitting in the rest of your activities after that. To save yourself time and make your day more efficient, schedule similar tasks or errands that are in close proximity so they're back-to-back. | Write down what you do. Grab a notebook and a pen that you will carry with you for a few days. Write down any activities you engage in, including work, errands, taking care of yourself, and having fun. Include how often you usually do these actions (daily, weekly, monthly). This may include things like: Commuting. Working. Sleeping. Cleaning your house. Grooming. Shopping for groceries. Include any aspirations. If there are other things that you'd like to do, but never seem to get around to, include these on your list. As you organize your day, you will figure out how to include these new activities into your routine. These might be things like: Working out. Prepping healthy meals. Playing guitar. Hanging out with friends. Determine how long each activity takes. Once you have a list of your activities (including aspirational ones), and how often you complete each task, you must reflect on how long each activity takes. Try your best to be realistic. Include the time it takes to get to where you need to be. Include the time it takes for you to get ready for each activity. Include the time it takes for you to wrap up. If you'll be working out, for instance, you may need to shower and change when you're done. Cut unnecessary activities. There is only so much time in every day. This means you must pick and choose which activities are most useful to you. This life change is two-fold: it will involve breaking some time-wasting habits, and learning to say "no." Common time-wasting habits include social media, checking email too often, watching television, and gossiping. When you engage in these types of activities, consider setting a timer for yourself. When the time is up, you must get back to work. If your boss, friends, spouse, and family are all asking things of you, it can be hard to keep up! Whenever you are asked to complete a project or do a favor, stop to consider whether or not you truly have the time to do the task well. Sometimes, you will need to say, "I just don't have time for that today." Select a planner. Get a planner that will be able to fit in all of the things you need to do. This could be a digital planner (like a Google calendar) or a physical one that you write in. The important thing is for you to be able to keep your planner with you all the time. A planner helps you to stay on track. Pencil in things that are non-negotiable. Begin organizing your day by writing down tasks that are set. This can include things like work, childcare, school, meetings, or other classes. Remember to include time to get ready for these tasks and to commute. Fit other tasks into your schedule. Once you have the non-negotiable items written down, you can look for gaps. For instance, you might have a little time before or after work, or on your days off. Begin to fill in any other things you need to do, such as working out, hanging out with friends, or doing errands. Make your day efficient. In order to maximize your time during the day, keep an eye out for ways to make tasks more efficient. Group similar actions together, or pair errands that occur in close proximity to one another. If you work near the grocery store, do your shopping before or after work. If you workout as soon as you get up, you only need to shower once. Instead of meeting with a friend over coffee, go for a “walking meeting” to get exercise while you talk. Give yourself a time buffer. Avoid scheduling things too closely together. You never know when a meeting will run a bit long, or when you will hit traffic. As a good rule of thumb, give yourself an extra 15-20 minutes between items on your agenda. It is always better to be early than late! Use your planner every day. Creating a plan is useless if you don't follow it. Keep your day planner with you at all times. Anytime a new task presents itself, jot it down in your planner. Make it a habit of regularly checking your planner for deadlines, appointments, and other tasks. Before long, this will be a natural part of your daily routine. Create a bedtime routine. Doing the same tasks each night before bed will help you stay organized the following day. As an added benefit, a consistent routine can help you to fall asleep! Give yourself 15 minutes to complete a few tasks before bed. Choose your clothes for the next day. Check the weather forecast and select appropriate items. Arrange the things that you will be using the next day (watch, bag, shoes, socks, makeup, books, accessories, etc.). Pack your lunch. Look at your planner and see what you need to do the next day. Add any necessary items to your “to-do” list. Plan the week ahead. In addition to checking in with your planner each day, make it part of your routine to sit down before the start of your week (for many people, this will be Sunday) and formulate a plan for the week ahead. Just like before, pencil in any non-negotiable tasks first. Then work to schedule all other in the time you have available. Look for any deadlines, meetings, or other appointments. Stay flexible. Despite your meticulously organized schedule, things will not always go according to plan. Meetings can run longer than scheduled, traffic can be worse than you thought, or your kids can get sick. The important thing is to try to be flexible when this happens, and come up with creative solutions. Keep healthy snacks (such as raw almonds) in your bag or desk at work in case you have to skip lunch. Keep a notebook (or tablet computer) with you so that you can get a little work done while you wait somewhere. Find out if there is the possibility of working from home, or video conferencing into a meeting, if you cannot be there in person. | Write down what you do. Include any aspirations. Determine how long each activity takes. Cut unnecessary activities. Select a planner. Pencil in things that are non-negotiable. Fit other tasks into your schedule. Make your day efficient. Give yourself a time buffer. Use your planner every day. Create a bedtime routine. Plan the week ahead. Stay flexible. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Encourage-Your-Cat-to-Drink-More-Water | How to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water | To encourage your cat to drink more water, start by offering a variety of bowls and glasses of clean fresh water throughout the house. Make sure you avoid placing the bowls near your cat's food bowl or litter box, since some cats are particular about where they drink their water. Additionally, you could try bottled water or adding ice cubes to the water to see if they have a preference. You may also want to consider switching to wet food or incorporating wet food into your cat's diet to help it stay hydrated. | Offer a variety of bowls and glasses. Your cat may simply be picky and have her own bowl or glass preferences. She may want a bowl or glass made from stainless steel, ordinary ceramic, or plastic. To see what your cat likes, put out a variety of styles to see if one appeals more to your cat. You might also experiment with depth of the bowls. Your cat may prefer a deep bowl or a shallow bowl. It's just a matter of personal preference. Place the bowls throughout the house. Avoid keeping water bowls in only one place since it may discourage your cat from drinking. Instead, put bowls near the sink, on the kitchen counter, near your bed, in the bathroom, or just all over the house. This will encourage your cat to explore and remind her to drink water. Make sure the bowls are located in areas your cat is likely to be. For example, if your cat spends hours napping on the windowsill, place a cup of water next to this spot. You can also place a bowl near the bathtub to see if your cat is interested. Keep the bowls and water clean. Clean the bowls out with soap and water every other day, taking care to rinse them well. Once a week, run them through the dishwasher to sterilize them. Change the water at least once or twice every day and check to make sure that nothing has fallen into the bowl throughout the day, especially if it's near the kitchen. Your cat may not be drinking much water if her bowls are dirty. Some cats can be very picky about having clean water and will show their displeasure by not drinking. Pay attention to where your cat drinks. The water bowls should be in an appealing place far from your cat's food or litter box. While some cats don't care if their water is close to the litter box or food bowl, others are particular about having them close to the water. Make sure your cat can see you move the water to a new location, away from the food or litter box. This way, she won't fear that her water has been removed. Run the tap. Though this isn't the most water-saving friendly approach, some cats love drinking from the tap. Your cat may be excited and curious by the movement, making her want to drink. If she doesn't seem interested right away, you can move her up to the sink and show her how fun it is to drink from the tap. Since you probably don't want to run the tap constantly, make this part of your morning or evening routine so your cat knows to expect it at those times. Consider using a drinking fountain. If you find that your cat loves running water, buy a drinking fountain. This will keep the water flowing all day, making drinking more exciting. Your cat may love to stare at, play, and drink from the fountain. Don't throw away the regular water bottles when you introduce the fountain. Keep both options available so your cat can decide which she prefers. Cat drinking fountains can be a bit pricey, costing over $50 in most cases. However, if you're worried about your cat becoming dehydrated, then it may be worth the investment. Add flavors to the water. Pour a little tuna or chicken broth into your cat's water. You can also add some juice from wet cat food. Just a spoonful or two of flavoring mixed into the water may be enough to trick your cat into drinking the water, especially if your cat normally likes wet cat food. However, realize that not all cats like the taste of flavored water. You can also try to trick your cat into drinking water by crushing up catnip in the water bowl. Let your cat see you crush a bit of catnip in the bottom of her water dish so she knows it's there. Offer bottled water. Buy a plain bottled drinking water and see if your cat prefers that to the water out of the tap. Your cat may dislike the tap water because of the chlorine or excessive minerals in it. Try offering room temperature bottled water as well as chilled bottled water to see which temperature your cat prefers. Give your cat more wet food. While wet food is richer and more expensive, it does contain more moisture than dry cat food. If you're concerned your cat isn't drinking enough, completely switch to wet food or incorporate some into her regular dry meals. Ask your vet before making any dietary changes. Do not add water to your cat's dry food in an attempt to make her drink water. Not only will this make his food much less appealing and soggy, but it can cause the food to spoil, making your cat sick. Add ice cubes to the water. Some cats really love cold water and the ice cubes also give her something to play with. At first, add just one or two ice cubes to each bowl. This way, your cat isn't shocked by the change in temperature. If your cat likes the flavor, freeze broth into ice cubes and place them in the bowl. You may even want to have your cat watch you put the ice cube in her water. Eventually, she may be more excited and mentally stimulated about drinking her water. Serve smaller, more frequent meals. Lots of cats tend to drink after they eat, much like humans, so try feeding your cat more than once or twice a day. Break those meals into several smaller ones to encourage your cat to drink more often throughout the day. It may take time for your cat to adjust to the new feeding schedule, but it may keep your cat hydrated. If you want to offer more frequent meals, you must be available for feeding. | Offer a variety of bowls and glasses. Place the bowls throughout the house. Keep the bowls and water clean. Pay attention to where your cat drinks. Run the tap. Consider using a drinking fountain. Add flavors to the water. Offer bottled water. Give your cat more wet food. Add ice cubes to the water. Serve smaller, more frequent meals. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sneak-a-Pad-or-Tampon-to-the-Bathroom-at-School | How to Sneak a Pad or Tampon to the Bathroom at School | You can easily sneak a pad or tampon to the bathroom at school without anyone noticing. Keep your supplies in a spare pencil case, small makeup bag, or wallet so no one will see them. Keep some in your locker and some in your bag so you'll always have easy access to your supplies. If you're in class when you need to go to the bathroom, you can just stop by your locker on the way. You can also hide a pad or tampon up your sleeve, down your sock, or in your shoe. If you need to transfer one from your bag, use the sound of your bag ruffling to disguise the sound of the plastic wrapper. | Keep your items in something easy to carry. Make sure that you always have a few pads or tampons in your bag or in your locker. For some girls, a makeup case is something that they already carry around. For other girls, you may want to use a pencil case. Make a period kit and put it in your locker. Put emergency supplies in it, just in case your period starts unexpectedly. Your period kit should have a few pads, about 4 tampons and backup clothes in it. You don't need to have pants in your locker (although you might want to keep some in your gym locker). Use a ziplock bag or other plastic bag. It will keep your items safe and together. Know your backup sources. If you are caught unawares, know that some schools have tampon vending machines in their bathrooms. You might also have a very-well-prepared friend that can lend you one. Nurses' offices often have supplies. Even some female teachers may have a supply. Use the sound of your bag moving to disguise the sound of plastic. Pads and tampons can come in noisy wrapping. When you're searching for them in your bag, move the rest of your bag around to create noises that will disguise the sound of you hiding your pad or tampon. The clatter of pens and keys are a good distraction from the sound of plastic. Ball up your pad or tampon in your hand, or slip it up your sleeve. You will find that there are many places on your body that you can hide something small. Tampons, especially applicator-free ones, are discreet when your fist is closed. They might be more difficult to keep in your sleeve, but you can usually hold them in place with a finger or two. Slide your pad or tampon into a boot or sock. Since your feet are under your desk, this is more discreet than putting it in your pocket. Slide your bag or whatever your items are in between your legs. Reach inside and slide your pad or tampon into your shoe or sock. It might be a good idea to bend down to put something away when doing this, or else come back up with an item, so that you have an excuse for reaching into your bag. Get excused from class, then stop by your locker. If you keep your items in your locker, you won't have to worry about taking them out of class. Try to keep your emergency supplies for emergencies, and bring new supplies to school when you know that you've started your period. Bring a small bag or makeup case with you. Bringing a bag might be more visible, but you may just not want to deal with digging around for your hygiene products in the middle of class. A pencil case can work as well. Take something else with you. If you need to come back for your items, take something else with you, like a water bottle or a wallet. That way, you can pretend that you are refilling your water bottle, or getting something from the vending machine. Some people actually keep pads or tampons hidden in water bottles. Panty liners and applicator-free tampons will also fit easily inside of a wallet. Sandwich your pad inside your phone case. If you have a phone case with a flap that closes, you can squeeze your pad into that spot. Reach into your bag with your phone in your hand, slide the pad in, and put your phone in your pocket. Go to the bathroom between classes. This way, you will be able to bring items in a backpack or bag without it being noticed. Even if you think you don't have to change, stop by the bathroom anyway. There's nothing worse than sitting in class and feeling you're having an emergency. Use a menstrual cup. Menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, and you don't have to change them. All you have to do is empty them. Menstrual cups are great for the environment as well as your hygiene. Keep hygiene items in your pocket. Most pockets are big enough to fit a pad or tampon. If you come to school with items already hidden on your person, you don't have to worry about sneaking them out of class. Layer your pads. Put on two in the morning and when one is saturated, go the bathroom and peel off the first one and throw it away and presto - fresh pad underneath. Be careful not to let the adhesive stick too much to the pad underneath, as it might rip off some of the absorbent material. It's best to stagger them a bit, with one in front and one in back. If you have pads with wings, you can place the top pad on top of one of the wrappers so you don't have to worry about the two pads sticking together and can have a wrapper to dispose of the top one. Just fold the wings over the wings of the bottom pad and it should stay in place, even with the wrapper on underneath. | Keep your items in something easy to carry. Make a period kit and put it in your locker. Know your backup sources. Use the sound of your bag moving to disguise the sound of plastic. Ball up your pad or tampon in your hand, or slip it up your sleeve. Slide your pad or tampon into a boot or sock. Get excused from class, then stop by your locker. Bring a small bag or makeup case with you. Take something else with you. Sandwich your pad inside your phone case. Go to the bathroom between classes. Use a menstrual cup. Keep hygiene items in your pocket. Layer your pads. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Grasshoppers | How to Get Rid of Grasshoppers | To get rid of grasshoppers, try knocking them off plants into a bucket of soapy water. If you prefer a less hands-on approach, spray a hot pepper wax insect repellent on your plants since the insects can't stand the taste and won't eat the leaves. Similarly, you can try a pesticidal soap or garlic spray to control the grasshopper population. If these remedies don't work, natural insecticides with Neem as the active ingredient will kill grasshoppers. Finally, if you have chickens, allow them to graze on the grasshoppers as a tasty treat. | Get some chickens. They love the tasty little hoppers, and have prodigious appetites. They eat loads of grasshoppers and will save your garden from destruction. Many cities and towns allow keeping these birds with permits. Not only do you get pest control, you get fresh eggs (if you have hens) and an occasional pot pie! Use a hot pepper spray repellent. Hot pepper wax insect repellent is the key. It's in all the garden catalogs, and soon it could be on all your plants. Insects can't stand the taste, and therefore do not eat the leaves! Be careful when using this repellent on edible plants, as it could burn your mouth if the plants aren't washed properly. Pesticidal soap and garlic spray are also viable options for grasshopper control. Squish them. Head to the grasshopper hangouts at dusk or dawn, and move more slowly as the air cools down. Knock them off the leaves into a bucket of soapy water where they'll drown, or just knock them on the ground and step on them. Do it soon. Pesticides become less effective as grasshoppers get older—plus, they've likely reproduced by then. Look for neem oil. Natural insecticides with neem as the active ingredient will kill grasshoppers. Neem trees are common in the Indian subcontinent and are prized in the villages where they occur. The leaves are a natural disinfectant and insecticide. Toothpaste made with neem extract is available in the U.S. Try Ecobran. There's a product called "Ecobran" that only affects grasshoppers and their close relatives. It doesn't affect other insects or birds. Ecobran uses carbaryl, an organophosphate. It is a good product for small landowners fighting grasshoppers, easy to use, and has minimal impact on beneficial insects compared to other formulations of carbaryl. | Get some chickens. Use a hot pepper spray repellent. Squish them. Do it soon. Look for neem oil. Try Ecobran. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Scale-a-Fish | How to Scale a Fish | Before you scale your fish, rinse it in cold, running water for several minutes to get rid of the slime and loosen the scales. Put your fish on something you can discard easily, like newspaper or cardboard, while you scale it. To start, use your non-dominant hand to hold the fish by the tail, keeping the fish flat on your work surface. Hold the knife in your dominant hand at a 45-degree angle, and put the blunt edge up against the fish's skin near its tail fin. Then scrape the side of the fish from tail to head with long, even strokes. | Rinse slime off the fish with cold water. Before you start trying to scale the fish, rinse it well under cold water. This removes the slime on the scales. Fish can be slippery and difficult to hold, especially when they're still slimy. Rinse it off so you can grip the fish firmly, or hold the fish with a dry cloth or towel. This reduces the chance of slipping, especially when handling a sharp knife during filleting. Let the water run for several minutes to loosen the scales. After you've removed the slime, keep rinsing the fish. You can hold it yourself, or leave the fish sitting under the running water while you take care of other things. This will help loosen the scales on the fish. Be sure to rinse both sides thoroughly. Place the fish on a protective layer. Lay down some sort of protection that will catch the scales when you remove them. Scales are very messy, so you don't want them to get everywhere. Choose something you can throw directly in the trash. That way, cleanup will be a snap. Newspaper, parchment paper, and cardboard are all good choices. Hold the fish firmly by the tail in your non-dominant hand. Keep the fish flat on the surface, but grab hold of the tail so it won't slip around when you start removing scales. You may want to put on a pair of disposable gloves to protect your hands. Scales and fins can be sharp. Take a knife in your dominant hand and turn it to the blunt edge. To remove scales, use the blunt edge of the knife instead of the sharp edge. Hold the blunt edge at a 45 degree angle. Place the blunt edge right up against the fish's skin near it's tail fin. Scrape the side of the fish from the tail to the head. Rake the backside of the knife along the side of the fish, moving from its tail to its head. Make long, even strokes. You'll need to apply a little pressure, but not much. As you scrape, the scales will start popping off. It's going to get a bit messy! Continue until that side of the fish has no remaining scales. Flip the fish over and repeat on the other side. Rinse away any remaining scales with cold water. After you have removed all the scales you can with the knife, hold the fish under cold running water. The water should help get rid of any scales that are still on the fish. Keep rinsing until no scales remain. Remove the skin prior to cooking. Cut the fish open. Use a knife to remove all of the skin, including the scales. Try to cut the fish as close to the skin as possible so you don't waste any fish. That way, you can bypass the scaling process completely. Cook the fish before removing the skin. You can cook the fish with the scales and skin still attached. After your fish is done, remove the skin. It will be loosened by the heat and you can cut it off pretty easily. The scales will come off with the skin. This works for all types of cooking methods. Use a fish scaler instead of a knife. A scaler is a special tool made just for scaling fish. It has jagged metal edges and looks sort of like an extreme hair brush! Use the scaler instead of a knife, scraping along each side of the fish from tail to head. You can buy fish scalers online or in stores that carry kitchen accessories. | Rinse slime off the fish with cold water. Let the water run for several minutes to loosen the scales. Place the fish on a protective layer. Hold the fish firmly by the tail in your non-dominant hand. Take a knife in your dominant hand and turn it to the blunt edge. Scrape the side of the fish from the tail to the head. Rinse away any remaining scales with cold water. Remove the skin prior to cooking. Cook the fish before removing the skin. Use a fish scaler instead of a knife. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Know-if-Your-Girlfriend-Really-Loves-You | How to Know if Your Girlfriend Really Loves You | To tell if your girlfriend loves you, pay attention to how often she wants to be around you, since people in love usually want to spend a lot of time with their partner. When you hang out together, listen to the tone of her voice, as she'll probably use a sweet, compassionate tone if she cares about you. You should also notice if she asks how you're feeling or how your day was on a regular basis, which is another sign that she loves you. If she compliments you and makes you feel good on a regular basis, you shouldn't worry about her feelings for you. When you're not around, pay attention to how much she trusts you, since a girlfriend that loves you won't need to keep checking in to see where you are or who you're with. | Be aware of the difference between falling in love and staying in love. While there are many complicated feelings associated with falling in love with someone, it is usually a very passive and emotional experience. But staying in love can be incredibly difficult and requires a more active and involved approach to the relationship. Think of “love” as a verb, or an action you have to continue to reinforce and support as you move forward in your relationship. Consider how your girlfriend actively contributes and cultivates her relationship with you, and if your relationship is just as good, if not better, than when you first fell in love. Through action and words, your girlfriend can reinforce and commit to the relationship every day, even in small or seemingly insignificant ways. Consider how you both deal with conflict in your relationship. Most couples with poor conflict resolution skills engage in Fight, Flight, or Freeze behaviors. So, they fight and stay mad, sometimes holding grudges or resentment for months or years. They take flight and avoid uncomfortable or difficult issues by sweeping them under the rug. Or, they freeze up emotionally and shut down, blocking out any attempts at communicating or discussing the issue. Successful couples who are committed to the relationship for the long term will try to work on solving any problems and letting them go. They will focus on taking care of the issue, rather than attacking each other or freezing each other out. In a healthy, loving relationship, both partners should be able to forgive and forget, as any lingering resentment that is not addressed and dealt with can lead to further drama or conflict down the line and will work against sustaining the relationship for the long term. Think about if you both have similar priorities and life goals. This is an important step to committing on a practical level to being with your girlfriend and will be an important step for her commitment to you. Opposites may attract, but they rarely make for a good long-term relationship, and compatibility in your tastes and preferences, as well as your values, priorities, and life goals, will help to create a deep and lasting connection between you and your girlfriend. Determine if you and your girlfriend have the four dimensions of intimacy. Authors Ronald Adler and Russell Proctor II identified four ways we can feel closely connected with our significant other: physical, emotional, intellectual, and shared activities. Complete the following exercise to see if you and your girlfriend have all four dimensions of intimacy: List the four dimensions in a vertical line. Write Partner A and Partner B on top of the list of dimensions. Next to each dimension, rank whether it is a “Must” have, a “Should” have, or a “Could” have for your relationship. Pass the list to your partner, and have them rank the dimensions. Or, mark down how you think your partner would prioritize these dimensions. The more “must-must” and “must-should” combinations between you and your partner, the greater the possibility of an intimate and long term relationship. Since no relationship is static, especially a healthy, loving one, the rankings of each dimension may evolve to be even more compatible over time. Understanding each other's priorities, especially in these core areas, will help to ensure long term success in a relationship and staying in love. Ask your friends and family how they feel about your girlfriend. If the people closest to you are encouraging you to break up or get away from your girlfriend, this may be an indication the person is not for you. Though it's important to trust your own instincts and feelings, it's usually a positive sign if your friends and family support your relationship with your girlfriend and think you have long term potential together. Listen to the tone of her voice when she talks to you. Compare how she talks to you with how she talks to others. If your partner uses a sweet, caring, and compassionate tone when talking to you, it's likely she considers you a special person in her life and cares deeply about you. Notice if she wants to spend the majority of her time with you and calls you frequently. Investing time in a relationship is a major indicator of long term commitment, especially if your partner is trying to balance other commitments like school, work, or family. Someone who truly cares about you will use whatever available time they have to spend some alone time together. Love triggers the release of serotonin in your brain, and it is believed that high levels of serotonin can cause you to think constantly about a partner. So the more your partner calls you or talks to you, the more they are thinking about you, which is a (chemical) indication of their feelings of love for you. Think about if she asks about your day when she sees you. While this may seem like a small gesture, it will show she is interested in even the minor details of your life. These check ins will also keep the lines of communication between you open and build a practical, supportive element to your relationship. Look for signs that she respects your opinion and your judgement. Perhaps you have opposing political views or different ways of making the best risotto. Regardless of these differences, she should still open to listening to your perspective and treat your views with respect and interest. If your partner truly cares about you, they should be willing to hear your opinions and ideas, and engage in a civil, respectful discussion about subjects you may not agree on. She should also be comfortable with including you in decisions, from mundane things like where you should eat dinner to high-stake questions like whether she should accept a new position at work. Though she may not always take your advice, she should still be interested in hearing what you have to say and take it into consideration. Notice if she avoids keeping tabs on you or asking you constantly where you are. Partners who truly care will give you the benefit of the doubt and will not snoop around on your cellphone or check your credit card bills to determine where you've been or who you've been with as they will be committed to trusting you. This kind of trust shows true caring, and is a big sign of a long term commitment. Consider if your girlfriend makes you feel good about yourself. A partner who cares about you will boost your self-esteem and sense of self. They should provide positive reinforcement and make you feel loved. This doesn't mean your relationship will always be a bed of roses, but overall, you should feel like your girlfriend gives you self-confidence and support, rather than negative thoughts or low self-esteem. If you are with someone who makes you feel good, you will not only want to spend more time with them, but also regard yourself more positively during the times that you are apart from them. Create an intimate, private setting. Declarations of love, whether from you or from her, might be harder to do in a crowded room, so make dinner at home or take her to a secluded spot in the park where you can have a deep conversation about your feelings. This will also put you both at easy and make you both more comfortable with talking honestly and openly. Be honest and straightforward. By being blunt and straightforward, you will have the best chance at knowing exactly how your girlfriend feels about you. Don’t be afraid to show emotion. Your girlfriend may need some encouragement to tell you about her feelings for you, so don't be shy about displaying your emotions. If you feel strongly about her, indicate this to her so that she feels comfortable enough to share how she feels about you. | Be aware of the difference between falling in love and staying in love. Consider how you both deal with conflict in your relationship. Think about if you both have similar priorities and life goals. Determine if you and your girlfriend have the four dimensions of intimacy. Ask your friends and family how they feel about your girlfriend. Listen to the tone of her voice when she talks to you. Notice if she wants to spend the majority of her time with you and calls you frequently. Think about if she asks about your day when she sees you. Look for signs that she respects your opinion and your judgement. Notice if she avoids keeping tabs on you or asking you constantly where you are. Consider if your girlfriend makes you feel good about yourself. Create an intimate, private setting. Be honest and straightforward. Don’t be afraid to show emotion. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-Sagging-Sofa-Cushions | How to Fix Sagging Sofa Cushions | To fix sagging sofa cushions, start by unzipping the cushions, or opening them with a thread cutter if they don't have zippers. Then, if your cushions have loose stuffing, add polyester fiberfill and distribute it evenly with your hands to plump up the cushions. Alternatively, wrap quilt batting around cushions that have pillow-like stuffing to give them more body. Finally, zip your cushions back up or sew them back together, then put them back on your sofa. | Unzip your cushions. Most sofa cushions, even cushions that are attached to the frame of the couch, have zippers that can be unzipped. Inside, you will see a couch cushion. If your sofa cushions have no zippers, you could open the pillow with a thread cutter. Add more stuffing your couch cushions. You should use either quilt batting or polyester fiberfill. Both polyester fiberfill and quilt batting can be purchased at a craft store or at a large store that sells home goods, like Walmart. Insert more foam, spreading it around to make it smooth and even. You can put it around the current couch cushion but inside the pillowcase. If it is badly worn, you may need to replace the foam. If your cushions are filled with loose stuffing, stuff them with polyester fiberfill. You do not need to take any of the current stuffing out of the pillows. Use your hand to distribute it evenly. If they are more like pillows, you can wrap them with quilt batting. Take the pillow out of the pillowcase and wrap it in the quilt batting. You can use an adhesive spray (purchased at a craft store) to secure the quilt batting to the current pillow. If you have just a cushion inside the pillowcase, you can still add loose stuffing. Spread the polyester fiberfill evenly around the pillow to make sure that the pillow is not lumpy. When you stuff the cushions, use your hand to spread the stuffing evenly around. Zip them up again. Put pillows back in the cushion covers and zip. Give them a good fluff and put them back on the couch. They should be plumper, more aesthetically pleasing, and more comfortable. If you opened your pillows with a thread cutter, you should sew the pillow back together again at the end of the stuffing process. Unzip the cushion. If the cushion does not unzip, open it with a thread cutter. Take out all of the stuffing inside the pillow and set it aside. Find a needle, thread, and four buttons. Sew the four buttons onto the sofa cushions, two on the front and two on the back. Use the same piece of thread to sew on all four buttons, so that all four buttons are cinched by the thread. You can also use more or fewer buttons depending on the size of the pillow. A throw pillow might require just two buttons, but a large sofa cushion might Retrace the thread several times over. You want the cinching to be strong between the buttons so that it lasts a long time. Refill the pillows. Feel free to also add more polyester fiberfill or quilt matting if you desire. Make sure that the padding is evenly and thoroughly distributed inside the cushion. Zip the cushion. Sew it back together, if you used a thread cutter to open the cushion. Fluff the pillow and put it back on the sofa. Support your couch cushions. You can buy “sofa savers” for sofas online or at home goods stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond. Put these supports underneath your couch cushions to give them more support and firmness. Cut a piece of plywood to fit underneath the sofa cushions. Measure the space underneath the sofa cushions and cut a piece of plywood to those dimensions. Place it underneath the cushions. You will feel more support underneath the cushions, and the couch should sag less. Repair the springs. Flip the couch over and expose the springs underneath the couch. To repair the springs of your sofa, you will need to wear glasses and use a pair of pliers. If you see any springs that are bent out of place (i.e., they look different from the rest of the springs), bend them back with the pliers gently. Flip over your cushions often. Flip over your sofa cushions frequently to prevent the stuffing being worn down repeatedly in one place. Move the cushions around on the sofa and flip them over once a week, or every time you clean the house. Repair your jute webbing. The jute webbing of your couch is the bottom layer of upholstery. The springs press down on this layer and can make it worn and saggy with frequent use. If your couch is sagging because the bottom layer of upholstery is worn, you should bring your couch to an upholstery expert to repair it. Luckily, this problem is easy to fix for an upholsterer. Cover the pillows with a blanket or a piece of fabric. If you don't have the time or resources for any other solution, your sofa cushions will look more full and plump if you cover them with a thick blanket or piece of fabric. You can tuck it into the sides and back of the couch, too. | Unzip your cushions. Add more stuffing your couch cushions. Zip them up again. Unzip the cushion. Find a needle, thread, and four buttons. Refill the pillows. Zip the cushion. Support your couch cushions. Cut a piece of plywood to fit underneath the sofa cushions. Repair the springs. Flip over your cushions often. Repair your jute webbing. Cover the pillows with a blanket or a piece of fabric. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-Like-a-Pirate | How to Dress Like a Pirate | To dress like a pirate, wear a loose, poofy white shirt and tuck it into a pair of tight black leather pants or leggings. If you can, add some patches or rips to your shirt and pants since pirates often wear faded, worn-out clothes. For your shoes, go with pointy black boots or brown sandals. You can also layer a red or black jacket over your outfit if you're worried about getting cold. | Have the right face. If you want to pull off the pirate look, you'll need to be convincing from the neck up. The right clothes won't take you very far if you don't have the face and head of a pirate. Here's what you do: Have a nice tan, or apply makeup that is a few shades darker than your skin to give yourself a tanned look. You spend all of your time on the deck of a ship, so it's only natural that you would have a sun-kissed complexion. Have rosy cheeks. Both male and female pirates are busy sword fighting, sparring, and running around the deck, so they should have a flushed look to their cheeks. Gently apply some blush for the look you want. Have smoky eyes. All pirates should have eyes that are lined in dark eyeliner to create a smoky effect. Both genders should also apply dark eyeshadow to emphasize their look. Pirate hair should be wavy and should look natural, like it dried in the sun. Wear the right clothes. Having appropriate attire will help you achieve the pirate look you are going for. Not only do you need the face of a true pirate, but you should wear the shirt and pants of true sea dog to capture the essence of a pirate. Here's what you do: Whatever you wear, remember that you've spent many years aboard a ship and don't have time to buy new clothes, and that you do your laundry in salty water aboard a ship. Therefore, your clothes should have a faded, lived-in look. The more patches and rips in your outfit, the better. Both men and women can wear loose white poofy shirts that they can tuck into their pants. They can have untied drawstrings hanging from their collar. Men should reveal their chest hair, and lady pirates can show a little bit of cleavage. You can layer a red or black jacket over the white top. Pirates can get cold at night on the windy seas. Men should wear tight leather pants, or ripped black jeans. Women can also wear tight leather pants, or a poofy red skirt and black laced leggings with an interesting pattern. The leggings can have rips in them too. For shoes, wear either pointy black boots, ragged brown sandals, or even bare feet, if it's appropriate. Have the right props and accessories. The right props and accessories can help accentuate your outfit and show that you really put a lot of thought into your pirate look. You don't have to be weighed down by too many items, but a few key additions will help complete your ensemble. Here are some things to consider: A pirate hat (also known as a tricorn hat) is a must. This three-cornered hat will add mystique to your look. A leather belt. Bonus points if you have a place to store your sword. A plastic sword. A plastic gold or silver sword that is not dangerous should be tucked into your belt. Be careful with this prop and make sure everyone around you knows it's not real before you whip it out. A parrot to keep on your shoulder. This will really impress the public. A fake parrot is best. A bag of gold doubloons to sling over your shoulder. It should make noise as you clink the coins together, and they can occasionally spill out. This will show that you've had a successful time pillaging and plundering out on the sea. An empty bottle of rum. Pirates love their rum, so you should bring out a bottle of rum filled with a non-alcoholic beverage such as root beer that looks like rum so you can take swigs from it periodically. If you're at a party or another place where it's appropriate to drink, and you're of legal age, drink from a real bottle of rum. A few key temporary tattoos. A tattoo of a skull and crossbones or of an anchor placed on your bicep, neck, or forearm will help complete your look. The right jewelry. A true pirate should wear a thick gold necklace and sliver and gold loop earrings. If you're a man and don't have your ears pierced, clip-ons will do. Have the swagger of a true pirate. To pull off your look, you have to be completely confident. If you act like your look is perfectly natural instead of being self-conscious, then people will take you seriously and will be convinced you're a real pirate. Here's what to do: Don't act like you're wearing a costume. When people compliment you on your outfit, look confused and brush them off. Walk around with confidence. Strut your stuff, walk with confident strides, and pose with your hands on your hips. Don't cower in a corner with your hands folded, because that's not what a real pirate will do. Wherever you are, march around looking in all directions, as if you're preparing for a sword fight that you'll win any minute. Act like a pirate. To pull of your pirate look, you'll have to have the attitude of a true pirate as well. You can't slip up and talk like a regular person, and should remember to be capturing the attitude of a pirate at all times. Here's how: Be slightly aggressive at all times. Scowl, growl, and be surly. Slur your words. Pirates are tipsy, so don't forget to slur everything you say, and never talk too quickly. Refer to yourself as "me." As in, "Me needs another swig of this here rum." Say "yer" or "ye" instead of "your." As in, "Ye need to get yeself together, ye mangy rat." The occasional "Ahoy!" or "Blimey!" will go a long way. | Have the right face. Wear the right clothes. Have the right props and accessories. Have the swagger of a true pirate. Act like a pirate. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Drinking-Coffee | How to Stop Drinking Coffee | To stop drinking coffee, try gradually reducing how much coffee you drink every day until you don't need it anymore. For example, try drinking half the amount of coffee you normally do for a few days, and then halving how much you're drinking every few days after that. You can also quit cold turkey, but keep in mind that you may be tired and experience headaches for the first few days. To ease the transition, eat more protein and avoid meals that are high in carbs so you have more energy. | Choose a good time. You probably don't want to quit right before finals or when you've got a big deadline coming up. Find a time when you can have a full week without extra responsibilities. Mark your calendar so that you stay accountable to yourself. If you are always busy and can't find a low-stress week, you may need to wean yourself off, instead of quitting cold turkey. Vacation can be a great time to quit coffee. You'll be away from your routines and have time to rest. Tell your family that you’re quitting. Let them know you may be a bit sluggish for a few days. Some people become a little absent-minded or grouchy when they first quit drinking coffee. If they know you're in the process of detoxing, they won't take it personally. If other people in your household drink coffee, ask if they can avoid making or drinking it around you. Your family can help you stay on track. Ask for their support. Tell them that if your resolve weakens, they should encourage you to stay away from coffee. Let everyone at work know. You don't want your coworkers to think you've suddenly lost your work ethic, but you may be moving slowly for a few days. Tell your coworkers (and even your boss) that you're in the process of quitting coffee. They'll likely understand and be sympathetic. If your workplace offers free coffee throughout the day (for example, if you work in a restaurant or a busy office) let your coworkers know that you'll be avoiding it. Bring something with you to replace coffee you would otherwise be drinking. Seltzer water or lemon water is great to sip on throughout the day and keeps you hydrated. Keep pain relievers handy. Caffeine withdrawal often causes headaches for anywhere from one to three days. Take pain relievers as needed to get through the headaches. Make sure to drink plenty of water with them as well. Always check the labels of pain relievers. Some contain caffeine, which won't help you in your plan to quit coffee! Eat a high protein diet. Protein provides a gentle energy boost throughout the day. Meals high in carbohydrates can make you sleepy. When carbs lower your energy level, you'll be tempted to reach for the coffee as a pick-me-up. Avoid the temptation by avoiding meals high in carbohydrates. Meats, dairy and legumes are excellent sources of protein. Carbohydrate-heavy foods include processed grains like white flour and white rice. Sugary foods will cause the same energy crash. Avoid triggers. You likely have specific times you are used to having coffee. It may be with breakfast or as a ritual before getting some late-night work done. You may associate certain situations with coffee. Perhaps you always have coffee when you spend time with a certain friend, or when you attend a morning meeting. It may not be possible to avoid all triggers. If you know you'll encounter a trigger, plan ahead. Bring some tea or lemon water to your morning meeting. Take your friend to a cafe where you can get something other than coffee. Nap when you need to. Of course, it's not always possible to nap in the middle of the day. However, you may feel the urge to nap in the first few days of quitting. If you can squeeze in a 20-minute nap, go for it! Try quitting right before the weekend. That way, you'll have two days that you can nap before you have to return to a full workday. Track your usual coffee intake. Take a couple of days and drink the amount of coffee you typically drink. Take note of how much you consume, including number of cups and the sizes of each cup. Once you have a solid baseline, prepare yourself to start the process of quitting, when you'll drink less. Drink extra water as you begin to quit. Being hydrated helps ease caffeine withdrawal. Drink half that amount the next day. If you normally drink one cup of coffee per day, drink half a cup. If you normally drink four cups, drink two. If you want to drink the same amount of coffee but less caffeine, you can replace half of the coffee with decaf coffee. If you're not sure how much coffee you normally drink, simply pour yourself half a cup every time that you would normally pour yourself a full cup. Continue drinking that amount for three more days. This will get your body used to a lower amount of caffeine. Drink extra water during this step to help your body detox. After a few days at this lower level of caffeine, you should not feel any withdrawal symptoms. If you do feel any withdrawal symptoms after a few days, stay at this level of caffeine intake until the symptoms (drowsiness, headache, shakiness) go away. Halve your intake of coffee again. If you'd gotten down to half a cup per day, now only drink a quarter of a cup. If you went from four cups to two, now go from two to one. You may now be drinking very little coffee. If you still want to have something hot to sip on, fill your mug with decaffeinated coffee to add volume. Decaf contains caffeine, but the amount (only a few milligrams per cup) is generally considered negligible. You may want to stay at this level of coffee intake for a few days as well. Switch to only decaf. This time, you won't drink any regular coffee at all. Many people enjoy drinking decaf, since it satisfies the psychological need for coffee. You can choose to replace all of your daily coffees with decaf, or to refrain from coffee altogether. Choose good decaf that you like. Dedicated coffee drinkers often complain that decaf doesn't taste as good as regular. If you choose a high quality decaf, you likely won't taste the difference! Blend the decaf with an herbal substitute. If you're trying to quit coffee altogether, you'll want to replace the decaf as well. Start by drinking decaf mixed with a coffee substitute. Dandelion root and chicory are common substitutes for coffee. Many brands offer “coffee style” instant beverages made from these plants. You can drink them just as you would coffee—adding cream and sugar if you like. Eventually, replace all of the decaf with your coffee substitute. You may decide to go without the substitute completely if you don't care for it very much. Decide what you enjoy about coffee. People decide to quit coffee for different reasons. You may love the taste, but want to ditch the caffeine. Or, you may want something healthier that still has stimulant properties. Look for an alternative that suits your needs. For a similar taste without the caffeine, you can try chicory, dandelion root, or decaf coffee. If you like your coffee sweet and creamy, you may opt for hot chocolate or chai lattes. Some coffee shops offer decaffeinated chai. These are high-fat, high-sugar choices. If you're looking for something that offers a stimulant effect, you can try green tea, black tea, or yerba mate. Herbal teas such as chamomile, mint, and rooibos have zero caffeine. Look for a replacement with antioxidants. Coffee is a main source of antioxidants in many diets, and looking to stop coffee consumption means that you will need to find a new source of antioxidants for daily health. Decreasing your daily coffee intake may mean increasing the amount of tea you drink and/or the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat. Teas such as white and green tea have antioxidants that can replace those in coffee, but they also have caffeine. If you are trying to eliminate caffeine along with coffee, you may want to opt for whole fruits and veggies, or whole natural juices. Swap one of your coffees for a substitute. Rather than decreasing the amount you drink incrementally, try drinking the same amount, but swapping some cups out for a coffee substitute such as tea or water. If you drink more than one cup of coffee per day, only substitute for one of them. If you normally drink one cup of coffee per day, drink a little less of it daily and then have some of your preferred coffee replacement. Make sure you have your substitute handy at all times. Keep some tea bags at your desk, or in the car. If you don't have your substitute handy, you're likely to opt for a coffee when it's convenient. Choose a substitute that you genuinely like. If you can't stand the taste of green tea, you're not likely to stick with it. Repeat this for two to three days. Get used to drinking one cup less coffee per day. At the same time, you're getting used to the substitute of your choice. This will help turn your new beverage choice into a habit. If you develop any caffeine withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, take a caffeine-free pain reliever as needed. Replace all of your coffees with the substitute. Once you're ready, make the switch. By now, you should not be having withdrawal symptoms. You may find that you drink less of your substitute drink than you did of coffee. That is perfectly normal. You can always switch substitutes if you need to. You may eventually want to quit caffeine altogether, or do without all of the sugar in hot chocolate. Once you've quit coffee, quitting another beverage will likely not seem as hard. | Choose a good time. Tell your family that you’re quitting. Let everyone at work know. Keep pain relievers handy. Eat a high protein diet. Avoid triggers. Nap when you need to. Track your usual coffee intake. Drink half that amount the next day. Continue drinking that amount for three more days. Halve your intake of coffee again. Switch to only decaf. Blend the decaf with an herbal substitute. Decide what you enjoy about coffee. Look for a replacement with antioxidants. Swap one of your coffees for a substitute. Repeat this for two to three days. Replace all of your coffees with the substitute. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Pre-Approved-for-a-Car-Loan | How to Get Pre Approved for a Car Loan | To get pre-approved for a car loan, start by checking your credit score, correcting any errors on your report, and using your score to anticipate what kinds of lenders you may be able to get. As you begin looking for lenders, start with your own bank or credit card company since they already have a relationship with you and may offer a competitive rate. Then, get information from a few other lenders in order to compare rates. Once you find a lender you like, complete the application and agree to the terms of the loan. | Check your credit score. You are entitled to one free copy of your credit report each year so you can keep up to date with your credit score. Go to annualreport.com and order your free report before you start shopping for a car loan. You also can order your report by calling 1-877-322-8228. This number is toll free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your credit score determines the kind of rates you can get on your car loan, as well as the total amount of your loan. Other factors, such as your age, level of education, and the length of time you've been employed also may be taken into account. Knowing your credit score ahead of time allows you to be selective about the lenders where you apply for financing. For example, if you have a credit score over 700, you should stay away from "bad credit" lenders. You don't have bad credit and while they will approve you, you'll likely get a better rate elsewhere. Correct errors on your credit report. If there is anything on your credit report that is false or has been inaccurately reported, take steps to get the error corrected before you start applying for car loans. Errors could have a negative effect on your score. Depending on how soon you need to get a car, the error may not be corrected before the lender runs your credit – but you can always explain the issue to them and they will take it into account. Set a budget. Your car payment itself should be between 5 and 10 percent. On top of that you'll have costs for fuel, insurance, and maintenance to consider. Overall, your total transportation costs should be at most between 18 and 20 percent of your total monthly income. For example, if you make $2,000 a month, your car payment shouldn't be more than $200 a month. You may want to adjust that amount downward if you anticipate doing a lot of driving and having higher fuel costs. Play around with your budget based on the type of car you want to buy. If you are getting a newer car, you won't have to worry as much about maintenance, especially if it's still under warranty. Likewise, if you get a hybrid car you won't spend as much on fuel. In those cases, you could potentially handle a slightly higher car payment. You can use loan calculators online to figure out how much of a loan you could potentially get based on your credit score, credit history, income, and other factors. Start with your own bank. When you first start looking for potential lenders for a pre-approved loan, you typically will have the best luck working with a bank or credit card company with whom you already have a relationship. If you've had a checking and savings account with the same bank for several years, find out if they offer pre-approved car loans. Credit card companies can be a good option as well, provided your card isn't maxed out and you have a good history of paying your bills on time. Get information from multiple lenders. When you're looking for a pre-approved car loan it pays to shop around. Check the general offers available from several different lenders so you can make sure you're getting the best possible rate. There are a number of online lenders who will complete the entire process online. If you don't like making a bunch of trips or spending time waiting at a bank, that might be a better option for you. Online lenders also may have lower rates because they have lower overhead expenses. Gather information for your application. The loan application typically won't take more than a few minutes to fill out. Things will go more smoothly if you make sure you have handy all the information you might need before you start. Generally you'll need to provide basic identification information, such as your Social Security number, driver's license number, name, address, and date of birth. You also may be expected to provide information about your car insurance company. You also will need information about your employer, including any jobs you've had for the past five years or so along with your rate of pay. Gather information about any other income you want the lender to consider as well. If you have moved within the past couple years, you should expect to provide your previous address. You also may need other financial information, such as the names and balance information for credit cards or other debts, or the name of the bank where you have a checking or savings account. Complete a loan application. Typically you can go into a physical branch of the bank or lender and fill out a paper application in person. Many lenders also give you the option of filling out and submitting an application online. If you complete your application online, you may be able to find out if you're pre-approved within just a few minutes. In-person decisions might be just as fast, or they might take a little longer. Speak to a lending agent. If at any time you have any questions or issues with your application, look for a number you can call to speak to the lender. You also may want to speak to a lending agent if there's an issue on your credit report you want to explain. If you have troubled credit, going into a local branch in person and applying for the loan will give you a chance to talk to someone face-to-face and explain your situation.You may be able to get approved for a loan this way, even if you would have been denied if you applied online. It also may be a good idea to go in and speak to someone if you got denied online, but you have an explanation that you believe weighs in your favor. Compare offers. The better your credit, the more options you'll have if you want to get pre-approved for a car loan. The good news is that a large number of inquiries typically won't harm your credit score, assuming they're all for car loans. Normally it's not a good idea to have a lot of inquiries on your report within a short period of time, and this can hurt your score. However, if you're looking for a loan product such as a car loan or a mortgage, the credit bureaus recognize that you'll want to shop around for the best rate. If you got a better offer from one lender but prefer a different one, take the better offer to your preferred lender and see if they're willing to match it. The worst they can say is no. Check your loan agreement. Many pre-approved car loans have specific requirements that the car you buy must meet. If you're buying a new car, these probably won't be a problem. For example, some lenders limit you to a car less than seven years old with fewer than 70,000 miles. You also may be limited to certain dealers. Typically lenders restrict you to major dealerships, and you won't be able to buy a car at a small, independent used car lot. Choose your car. With most pre-approved car loans, there's no requirement that you have the car you want picked out before your loan is approved. Typically you'll have 30 days to find a car after your pre-approval. If the deadline is nearing and you still haven't found a car, contact your lender. Usually they'll want to run your credit again before they extend that time period, which may result in different terms. However, if you contact them before the 30 days is up, they may be willing to work with you. Negotiate with the dealer. With a pre-approved car loan, you are at an advantage with the dealer once you find the car you want. As long as it falls within your lender's requirements, you already know that financing won't be a problem. By bringing your own financing, you're also saving the dealer on costs associated with setting up financing for you. Ask the dealer if they offer any discount for this. If you're buying a used car, make sure you get it inspected and understand any issues the car has or may have had in the past. Check the car's history and find out how many owners it's had, if it's ever been in an accident, and how often maintenance was performed. Compare your pre-approved rate to dealer financing. While pre-approved car loans often will give you the best rate, the dealer may have special offers available – especially if you have good credit. Avoid telling the car dealer the monthly payment you prefer. You may end up with a deal for a lower monthly payment, but with other terms that aren't as favorable for you. Present your blank check. Depending on your lender, you may have to go to a bank branch in person to complete the car loan process after you've picked out your car. Your loan agreement will have information on how to get your loan finalized. In most cases, you'll be issued a blank check to pay the dealer for the car. You'll write in the full amount of money you're paying for the car, then pay the bank back that amount of money according to the terms of your loan agreement. You can write the check for any amount up to the total amount for which you've been pre-approved. If you end up purchasing the car for less than the maximum amount, your loan will only be for that amount. Maintain full coverage insurance. Most lenders require you to carry full coverage – both liability and collision – insurance on your car while it's financed. For the remainder of your loan, the lender retains a lien on your car. If you violate any of the terms of your loan agreement, including not maintaining proper insurance coverage, the lender may decide to repossess your car. | Check your credit score. Correct errors on your credit report. Set a budget. Start with your own bank. Get information from multiple lenders. Gather information for your application. Complete a loan application. Speak to a lending agent. Compare offers. Check your loan agreement. Choose your car. Negotiate with the dealer. Compare your pre-approved rate to dealer financing. Present your blank check. Maintain full coverage insurance. |
https://www.wikihow.tech/Tag-Someone-in-a-Facebook-Comment | How to Tag Someone in a Facebook Comment | Type @ followed by a friend's name in a comment box, then tap/click on the friend's name to mention them in the comment. | Open the Facebook app. It looks like a white F on a blue background. If prompted to sign in, type in your username and password, then click Log In. Scroll down to a friend's post to comment on. Posts will appear in your timeline or on the friend's main page. Tap Comment. It is right below the post. Type “@” followed by the name of a friend. A drop down list of search results will appear as you type. If your friend's name appears in the list before you are done typing, tap on the result to automatically add the friend to the post. Complete your post and tap Post. Your comment will appear in the post's comment section, and your friend will be notified of the comment the next time they visit Facebook. Open Facebook. If prompted to sign in, type in your username and password, then click Log In. Scroll down to a friend's post to comment on. Posts will appear in your timeline or on the friend's main page. Click on the comment box. It is right below the post's comments with the text “Write a comment” Type “@” followed by the name of a friend. A drop down list of search results will appear as you type. If your friend's name appears in the list before you are done typing, click on the result to automatically add the friend to the post. Complete your post and hit the Enter key. Your comment will appear in the post's comment section, and your friend will be notified of the comment the next time they visit Facebook. | Open the Facebook app. Scroll down to a friend's post to comment on. Tap Comment. Type “@” followed by the name of a friend. Complete your post and tap Post. Open Facebook. Scroll down to a friend's post to comment on. Click on the comment box. Type “@” followed by the name of a friend. Complete your post and hit the Enter key. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Area-of-a-Kite | How to Find the Area of a Kite | To find the area of a kite using the 2 diagonals, measure the length of the diagonals. Label these 2 lines x and y. Multiply the lengths of x and y, then divide the result by 2 to get the area of the kite. If you have the area and the lengths of 2 sides, multiply the length of side a times the length of side b, then multiply that by the sin of the angle, or C. | Set up the formula for the area of a kite, given two diagonals. The formula is A = x y 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {xy}{2}}} , where A {\displaystyle A} equals the area of the kite, and x {\displaystyle x} and y {\displaystyle y} equal the lengths of the diagonals of the kite. Plug the lengths of the diagonals into the formula. A diagonal is a straight line that runs from one vertex to the vertex on the opposite side. You should either be given the length of the diagonals, or be able to measure them. If you don't know the length of the diagonals, you cannot use this method. For example, if a kite has two diagonals measuring 7 inches and 10 inches, your formula will look like this: A = 7 × 10 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {7\times 10}{2}}}. Multiply the lengths of the diagonals. The product becomes the new numerator in the area equation. For example: A = 7 × 10 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {7\times 10}{2}}} A = 70 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {70}{2}}} Divide the product of the diagonals by 2. This will give you the area of the kite, in square units. For example: A = 70 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {70}{2}}} A = 35 {\displaystyle A=35} So, the area of a kite with diagonals measuring 10 inches and 7 inches is 35 square inches. Set up the formula for the area of a kite. This formula works if you are given two non-congruent side lengths and the size of the angle between those two sides. The formula is A = a b sin C {\displaystyle A=ab\sin C} , where A {\displaystyle A} equals the area of the kite, a {\displaystyle a} and b {\displaystyle b} equal the non-congruent side lengths of the kite, and C {\displaystyle C} equals the size of the angle between sides a {\displaystyle a} and b {\displaystyle b}. Make sure you are using two non-congruent side lengths. A kite has two pairs of congruent sides. You need to use one side from each pair. Make sure the angle measurement you use is the angle between these two sides. If you do not have all of this information, you cannot use this method. Plug the length of the sides into the formula. This information should be given, or you should be able to measure them. Remember that you are using non-congruent sides, so each side should have a different length. For example, if your kite has a side length of 20 inches and a side length of 15 inches, your formula will look like this: A = 20 × 15 sin C {\displaystyle A=20\times 15\sin C}. Multiply the side lengths. Plug this product into the formula. For example: A = 20 × 15 sin C {\displaystyle A=20\times 15\sin C} A = 300 sin C {\displaystyle A=300\sin C} Plug the angle measurement into the formula. Make sure you are using the angle between the two non-congruent sides. For example, if the angle measurement is 150 ∘ {\displaystyle 150^{\circ }} , your formula will look like this: A = 300 sin ( 150 ) {\displaystyle A=300\sin(150)}. Find the sine of the angle. To do this, you can use a calculator, or use a trigonometry chart. For example, the sine of a 150 degree angle is.5, so your formula will look like this: A = 300 (.5 ) {\displaystyle A=300(.5)}. Multiply the product of the sides by the sine of the angle. This result will be the area of the kite, in square units. For example: A = 300 (.5 ) {\displaystyle A=300(.5)} A = 150 {\displaystyle A=150} So, the area of a kite, with two sides measuring 20 inches and 15 inches, and the angle between them measuring 150 degrees, is 150 square inches. Set up the formula for the area of a kite, given two diagonals. The formula is A = x y 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {xy}{2}}} , where A {\displaystyle A} equals the area of the kite, and x {\displaystyle x} and y {\displaystyle y} equal the lengths of the diagonals of the kite. Plug the area of the kite into the formula. This information should be given to you. Make sure you are substituting for A {\displaystyle A}. For example, if your kite has an area of 35 square inches, your formula will look like this: 35 = x y 2 {\displaystyle 35={\frac {xy}{2}}}. Plug the length of the known diagonal into the formula. Substitute for x {\displaystyle x}. For example, if you know one of the diagonals is 7 inches long, your formula will look like this: 35 = 7 y 2 {\displaystyle 35={\frac {7y}{2}}}. Multiply each side of the equation by 2. This will remove the fraction in the formula. For example: 35 = 7 y 2 {\displaystyle 35={\frac {7y}{2}}} 35 × 2 = 7 y 2 × 2 {\displaystyle 35\times 2={\frac {7y}{2}}\times 2} 70 = 7 y {\displaystyle 70=7y} Divide each side of the equation by the length of the diagonal. This will give you the length of the missing diagonal. For example: 70 = 7 y {\displaystyle 70=7y} 70 7 = 7 y 7 {\displaystyle {\frac {70}{7}}={\frac {7y}{7}}} 10 = y {\displaystyle 10=y} So, the length of the missing diagonal of a kite, given an area of 35 square inches and one diagonal of 7 inches, is 10 inches. | Set up the formula for the area of a kite, given two diagonals. Plug the lengths of the diagonals into the formula. Multiply the lengths of the diagonals. Divide the product of the diagonals by 2. Set up the formula for the area of a kite. Plug the length of the sides into the formula. Multiply the side lengths. Plug the angle measurement into the formula. Find the sine of the angle. Multiply the product of the sides by the sine of the angle. Set up the formula for the area of a kite, given two diagonals. Plug the area of the kite into the formula. Plug the length of the known diagonal into the formula. Multiply each side of the equation by 2. Divide each side of the equation by the length of the diagonal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Own-Animation | How to Make Your Own Animation | To make your own animation, try using an online animation program like Moovly or Animatron. Regardless of what program you use, come up with a script and storyboard before you get started so your animation is all mapped out. You should also draw some character sheets or make models so you have something to reference when you're making your animation. If you want to try something simple for your first animation, give stop-motion or flipbook animation a try. | Open Moovly. Go to https://www.moovly.com/ in your computer's web browser. Keep in mind that Moovly is only free for 30 days, during which time you cannot download a video. If you want to be able to download your animation, try using Animatron. Scroll down and click Start making your movie now. It's a red button near the middle of the page. The animator interface will open and a pop-up window will appear. Enter your name and email address. Type your first name into the "First name" text box, then type your email address into the "Email" text box. If you'd rather sign up with a social media account, tap the Facebook , Google , or LinkedIn option and follow the on-screen prompts. Check the "I accept" box. It's below the "Email" text box. If you want to view the privacy statement or the terms and conditions, click the Privacy Statement or the Terms & Conditions link respectively to open the related document in a pop-up window. Click Submit. This is at the bottom of the pop-up window. Navigate through the tutorial. Click through each of the prompts until the tutorial closes. At this point, you can begin animating. Select a group of templates. Click the Moovly Libraries heading in the upper-left corner of the page, then click the title of the template you want to use. Drag an item onto the canvas. Click and drag the item you want to animate onto the white canvas in the middle of the page, then drop it there. Resize and reposition the item. You can click and drag one of the item's corners to resize it, and you can move the item around by clicking and dragging it on the canvas. Click Add animation. It's a box at the bottom of the page. A pop-up menu will appear. Select an animation category. In the pop-up menu, place your cursor over the type of animation you want to apply to the selected item. This will prompt a pop-out menu to appear next to the current menu. For example, to move the character, you might select the Move & Transform category. Select an animation. Click the animation that you want to apply to your selected item. If you selected the Move & Transform option, for example, you might click Move left to move the character to the left. Change the animation's speed. You can click and drag the end of the animation's white bar in the timeline to the left to speed up the animation, or you can drag it right to slow down the animation. Add other objects. Click and drag other objects that you want to animate onto the canvas, then animate them as you please by using the Add animation menu. Add a clip. Once you've added enough objects to one clip, you can create a blank clip by clicking Add clip on the lower-left side of the page. You can then add more objects and animations to this clip in order to continue your story. Confirm your email address. Now that you've created your animation, you'll need to confirm your email address in a new tab in order to save it: Open in a new tab the inbox for the email address you used to create your Moovly account. Open the "Activate your Moovly account" email. Click the activation link in the email. Create a password, then click Continue. Publish your animation. While you can't download animations from Moovly without paying for the premium version of Moovly, you can publish animations to Moovly's servers: Open your Moovly dashboard if it isn't already open. Click Publish. Click Moovly Gallery. Click OK, I agree. Enter a title and description, then click Publish. Copy the link at the bottom of the "Publishing your project" window if you want to share the animation with other people. Open Animatron. Go to https://www.animatron.com/studio in your computer's web browser. Animatron's free version will allow you to create and download up to 10 seconds of animated video in standard definition. Click Sign Up. It's on the upper-right side of the page. A pop-up window will appear. Enter an email address. Type a working email address into the "EMAIL ADDRESS" text field. You can also select Facebook , Twitter , or Google to sign up with your Facebook, Twitter, or Google login information. Click CREATE ACCOUNT. It's below the text field. Verify your account. Do the following: Open your email inbox. Open the "Please confirm your account at Animatron.com!" email. Click the blue ACTIVATE YOUR ACCOUNT button. Enter your account details. Type your preferred name and password into the appropriate text fields, then click the "What do you do?" text box and select an answer based on your occupation (e.g., Business ). Depending on your answer, you may also need to answer a follow-up form. Once you've filled out the whole form, click CREATE MY FREE ACCOUNT at the bottom of the page. Click START CREATING. It's a red button on the upper-right side of the page. Skip the introduction section. To do so: Click CONTINUE twice. Click LITE at the top of the page. Click Cancel in the top-right corner of the tutorial window. Select an animated set. Click one of the animated set options in the left-hand column. Select a background. Click the background you want to use at the top of the left-hand column. Depending on your selected set, there may be only one background to use. Move the playhead to the point where you want to insert a character. Click and drag the vertical bar on the timeline to the point at which you want to add your first animated character. Add a character. Click one of the animated characters in the left-hand column. Position the character. Click and drag the character to the point where you want to place them. You can also resize your character by clicking and dragging in or out one of the corners of the selection box that's around the character. Open the "Appear" menu. Click the white box with overlapping circles to the left of the timeline to do so. This will only appear when a character is selected. Select an appearance animation. Click one of the appearance animation options (e.g., POP IN ) in the menu at the bottom of the page. You can also click the MOVE tab on the left side of the timeline to see movement animations. Click APPLY. It's below the selected appearance option. Add more characters and appearance animations. You can add more characters and movements to your animation by moving the playhead to the section where you want to place a character, selecting a character, and adding animations to that character via the "Appear" menu. Save your animation. You can save your animation as a 10-second standard definition video by doing the following: Click DOWNLOAD on the upper-right side of the page. Click Video... in the drop-down menu. Click CONTINUE , then click CONTINUE WITH RESTRICTIONS. Click RENDER. Click the Download link when it appears. Learn about different animation concepts. There are too many different micro-components of animation to address in this article, but several common (and important) concepts can be found in online forums, courses, and guides, as well as in any animation or art resources found at your local library. Common concepts to study include the following: Color — Knowing which colors pair well and which combinations to avoid will help you create a more pleasant animation (or, if you're going for dissonant imagery, create a distressing animation). Composition — This refers to knowing how to fill the screen with your animation in an efficient, aesthetically pleasing manner. Perspective — Knowing how to demonstrate the dimensions of an image will deepen your animation. Anatomy — Proper understanding of anatomy can help you create structurally accurate animations. It can also help you figure out which anatomical rules you can break while maintaining a believable animation. Script your animation. First, write down everything that you want to happen. This doesn't just mean dialogue; you should include actions and facial expressions as well. You need to have a clear idea of exactly what's going to happen before you start. Make some storyboards. Storyboards are the next step: these are drawings that show major actions and scenes throughout your animation. They tell the story overall and look much like a comic book. Draw some character sheets or make character models. You'll want to have a reference to look at as you draw your frames so that the character looks consistent and real from pose to pose. Draw your characters from every different angle and with a number of different expressions. You should also draw out what they'll be wearing, especially if what they're wearing changes between scenes. Make your animation sketch. This is a single drawing on a single piece of paper that shows all of the major stages of movement in a single frame. This will often result in a picture that looks like conjoined quintuplets, but it's designed to make sure that your key frames are correctly aligned and that your motions look natural. Try using squash and stretch. Squash and stretch is when you exaggerate motions to help the human brain perceive them as real. A common example would be when you imagine a ball. It's much more interesting to see a ball squish down to the floor a little when it lands, instead of just seeing a normal sphere. This helps the viewer feel the motion that the ball is making. Master facial expressions. Animation is at its best when the viewers are emotionally connecting with the characters. This is much easier if you get your characters making faces that convey real emotions, instead of largely static faces. Practice drawing emotions on faces. You should focus on the motions of changing emotions too, not just the poses of sad-angry-laughing and so on. Implementing subtle facial expressions—eyebrow movement, twitching of the corner of the mouth, and even eye (specifically pupil) movement—along with body language (e.g., standing up straight versus loosening up) will convey adequately a wide range of character emotions. For example, if a character transitions from surprised to angry, they might start with raised eyebrows, wide eyes, and an open mouth and then transition to having a frown, narrow eyes, and bared teeth. Draw the key frames. The key frames are the major stations of the movement that the character makes. For example, if you're animating a character turning from left to right, the key frames would show the character facing left, then the character facing the camera, and then the character facing right. Check for flow. Flip between the key frames to see how the movement looks. It's a good idea to check for flow any time you finish making a change to your document. Create the in-betweens. The in-betweens are all of the small movements between the key animations. Start by drawing the image that should go directly between two key frames, then make the image that goes between the key frame and the first in-between. Keep doing this until you have the appropriate number of frames to illustrate the movement (this will differ depending on what your purpose is with your animation). You'll want to check for flow again after doing this. Clean up the drawings. Clean any sketch lines and stray marks that distract from the movement of the character. You may even choose to ink the frames of animation, depending on what you plan to do with your work. Process the animation. Add and stitch the images together using a computer program like Photoshop, GIMP, or Pixlr in order to create the final video. Experiment with different forms of animation. Traditional animation isn't limited to a pen-and-paper medium. Common examples of more accessible animations include the following: Flipbooks Stop-motion GIF Machinima (video game-based animation) | Open Moovly. Scroll down and click Start making your movie now. Enter your name and email address. Check the "I accept" box. Click Submit. Navigate through the tutorial. Select a group of templates. Drag an item onto the canvas. Resize and reposition the item. Click Add animation. Select an animation category. Select an animation. Change the animation's speed. Add other objects. Add a clip. Confirm your email address. Publish your animation. Open Animatron. Click Sign Up. Enter an email address. Click CREATE ACCOUNT. Verify your account. Enter your account details. Click START CREATING. Skip the introduction section. Select an animated set. Select a background. Move the playhead to the point where you want to insert a character. Add a character. Position the character. Open the "Appear" menu. Select an appearance animation. Click APPLY. Add more characters and appearance animations. Save your animation. Learn about different animation concepts. Script your animation. Make some storyboards. Draw some character sheets or make character models. Make your animation sketch. Try using squash and stretch. Master facial expressions. Draw the key frames. Check for flow. Create the in-betweens. Clean up the drawings. Process the animation. Experiment with different forms of animation. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Martial-Art | How to Choose a Martial Art | If you want to choose the best martial art class for you, think about your overall goals. For instance, if you want to learn all-purpose self-defense, try taking Jiu Jitsu classes. If you want to get more active and build muscle, opt for Kung Fu or kickboxing, which involve intense sparring. Choose a style like Taekwondo or Naginata if you want to gain more self-control and discipline through martial arts. Whichever style you choose, be sure to sit in on a class beforehand to make sure you like the instructor and class dynamic. | Learn Jiu Jitsu for self-defense. Most often, people take up a martial art for self-defense purposes. Daniel LaRusso did so. He was being bullied. Are you being bullied? Or are you afraid of being harassed in the future? Every single martial art will teach you how to defend yourself. Your goal will be to find a martial art that emphasizes defense techniques and breaking holds. In many ways, Jiu Jitsu is this martial art, because it uses the opponent's strength and force of attack as a weapon against him, thus enabling a stronger or bigger attacker to be subdued. When in a self-defense situation, Jiu Jitsu will help you dodge frontal attacks, escape from holds, and get the upper hand quickly. Remember that every martial arts form addresses self-defense. Some are more confrontational than others. Jiu Jitsu is a happy medium. Get physically fit with Kung Fu. The second most popular reason why people practice martial arts is to exercise, to transform fat into muscle, and to increase their coordination. All martial arts do this well, but depending on your own fitness goals, you might choose one martial art over another. Kung Fu is a great all around body workout. Since Kung Fu utilizes low stances and powerful blocks, it tends to provide a full body workout. This is also one of the most disciplined forms of martial arts. While Kung Fu works all of your muscles, there are martial art styles that emphasize upper body or lower body strength and flexibility. If you'd rather work on your upper body strength, you might choose the Western Boxing style or perhaps Shotokan Karate from Japan. Alternatively, if you want your legs to be in better shape, you might choose a martial arts style with a greater emphasis on leg strength and agility like Taekwondo. Build your self confidence with Naginata. Naginata today is a martial art and an art form that teaches etiquette, respect, and self-confidence. Martial arts like Naginata build confidence because they unlock potential, build muscle, and teach you new skills. Many people who first enter the dojo suffer from low self esteem or simply don't believe in themselves. Maybe that's why you've chosen to consider martial arts for yourself. If so, you'll want to find a program and a teacher that will build you up rather than tear you down. Naginata instructors focus on encouraging positive feelings and experiences. Positive reinforcement will be a key aspect of your decision making process. Try Taekwondo to practice discipline and self-control. Taekwondo is the world's most popular martial art. This probably owes much to its addition to the Olympics in 1988. Many consider Taekwondo to be an artistic form and as such you must have great self control. You must discipline yourself to make every movement fluid, graceful, and deliberate. Because so much emphasis is placed on movement and form, many find Taekwondo to be a great way of teaching discipline and self-control (to children or anyone). Martial arts are regimented and hierarchical experiences and as such demand a high level of discipline and self-control in order to succeed. During your training, you may encounter instruction that runs counter to your preconceived notions. “Wax on, wax off,” Mr. Miyagi told Daniel in The Karate Kid. Daniel was confused because he couldn't comprehend how waxing a car could possibly relate to learning martial arts. Only later did he discover that the teacher knew better. Follow your teacher as best as you can. Listen to his instructions. Practice frequently. While this discipline will help you become a better martial artist, it will also transfer to your everyday life. Prepare to fight in the ring with kickboxing. In the 1970s, American karate martial artists became frustrated with the strict guidelines placed on competitions. They wanted to make full-contact. This faction splintered off and created kickboxing. Competitors use sparring, kicks, punches, blocks, and shadow boxing to prepare for matches. Because its origins lie within full contact and competition, kickboxing makes for a great martial arts form for those interested in getting in the ring. Some martial arts don't emphasize ring fighting. Traditional styles of Kung Fu such as Wing Chun or Hung Gar are not designed to teach you to fight in the ring. You can and will learn exceptional self defense in these systems, but it will take a good long while before your basics are solid enough to have any impact in a combative situation. Consider your cultural interests. If you have a respect for or interest in a certain culture, learning more through one of their martial arts can be a great experience. Study Krav Maga if you're interested in Israel. Study Taekwondo if you're curious about Korean culture. Try Sumo to get a better understanding of Japanese culture. If that is part of your goal, choose a school taught by a native of that culture, or someone who trained directly under someone of that culture. The instruction will feel more “authentic” and you wil most certainly pick up other aspects of their culture in the process — like language, mannerisms, history, and philosophy. Find a martial arts studio that is near you. In most cases, you'll probably land on a form of martial arts based on what is available in your area. If it is difficult or time consuming to get to your dojo, you'll just have one more excuse to not follow through. Search online and in the phone book for martial arts studios. Choose an affordable school. Rarely do martial arts schools advertise their price of instruction in the phone book. Prices could be determined on a monthly basis, over several months, or by how often you train each week. In some cases, the price is negotiable depending on how many people will be taking classes with you (family package deals, for example). There are instructors who charge as little as $50 a month for instruction, and there are those who garner $50 or more for a single one-hour session. It is up to you to determine what you feel is a fair and manageable price for instruction. After some research, you will know who is asking too much. Another good way to save money is to look for classes that do not operate out of a storefront. There are many successful schools that operate in community centers, church basements, YMCAs and recreation halls. Just because a school does not have a fancy storefront does not mean the quality of instruction is inferior. Call and inquire about trial periods, attire required, and membership/class fees. Look out for hidden fees. Some places charge more per class after you've attended a certain number of them. Sit in on classes. A great way to get a feel for a martial arts style and a particular school/instructor is to attend a couple of classes before settling on a specific place and style. You'll get a chance to see the space, meet with other practitioners, and visit the instructor. Talk to the other students. See what they like about the program and what they dislike. Some of the more tenured martial artists in attendance may even have experience about other programs, which will help you narrow down your decision. Decide whether or not the teaching style suits your personality. If you are looking to learn practical martial arts, does the class encourage or allow beginners to get involved in sparring or "free-play" or is this reserved for more advanced students who have spent more time and money at the dojo? Do you want a trainer — someone who will motivate you to push? Do you want someone who will build your self-esteem? Do you want to work one-on-one or in a large class? A Martial Arts instructor's teaching style will differ based on your goals and the setting you are in. Realize also that beginner sparring, even if encouraged, should be more restricted than the more experienced students because beginners do not usually have sufficient control of their strikes to effectively reduce the chance of injury. Evaluate the community at the school. Take note of the students at your school and the way they interact with each other and their seniors. Are they friendly and receptive? Are they respectful? Would you consider them to be friends? You're going to be spending significant amounts of time with them, so it is important to understand their personality, as well. You'll also be putting your safety in their hands; if that makes you uncomfortable, keep looking. Check the teacher's qualifications. Don't worry so much about degrees and certificates; there are no universal grading standards and no universally-recognized governing body in martial arts. What's important is: Who did this person learn from? How long did he or she study with this person? How long has he/she practiced this art? Does the teacher have any experience as a teacher, or is he or she simply a skilled martial artist? Just like great football players can make bad coaches (and vice versa), great martial artists are not necessarily great teachers. Be aware when looking at your local schools that many teachers will tell you that their school/system is the best. There are many martial artists that are very loyal to their arts and will be negative if you express interest in another art. Be careful if this happens; they probably are not the best instructors if they do not show respect for others in this way. Pick a school that fits with your schedule. You may need to set aside a significant amount of time each week to dedicate to your training. Most arts have exercises or forms you can practice at home to keep it all fresh in your mind; if you only practice at class, your progress will probably be stunted. Make sure that you dedicate enough time to attend classes and practice at home. Remember, martial arts are about discipline. Don't enter into a program without accepting this. Otherwise, you won't follow through with the program. Join and get started. Now is usually better than later. Jump right in and get started. You've done your due diligence. You've decided on one particular form of marital arts over another. You know what to expect. Have fun! | Learn Jiu Jitsu for self-defense. Get physically fit with Kung Fu. Build your self confidence with Naginata. Try Taekwondo to practice discipline and self-control. Prepare to fight in the ring with kickboxing. Consider your cultural interests. Find a martial arts studio that is near you. Choose an affordable school. Sit in on classes. Decide whether or not the teaching style suits your personality. Evaluate the community at the school. Check the teacher's qualifications. Pick a school that fits with your schedule. Join and get started. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Cool-at-a-Pool-Party | How to Be Cool at a Pool Party | To be cool at a pool party, choose the right outfit and have a cool and casual attitude. When you're deciding what to wear, choose something that you'll feel comfortable in so you'll look and act more confident. Pick a color and style that you love and makes you happy. You can also have something to wear besides a bathing suit, such as a t-shirt or coverup dress that you can throw on over your suit. When you arrive to the party, try to arrive a few minutes after it's supposed to start and don't be the last person to leave so you look cool and casual. Be confident and have fun by joining in on any games at the party or talking to people you haven't met before. | Wear what you feel comfortable in to swim. If you don't feel comfortable in what you're wearing, that will show. Pick something in a color and style you love, and your confidence will shine through. Maybe you love an awesome tankini and shorts, or maybe you like to rock a one piece. Maybe you like short shorts or maybe you prefer board-length shorts. Just pick whatever makes you happy. Try a bright color to really stand out, such as turquoise or hot pink. Patterns can also add pizazz to your outfit. You could try polka dots, stripes, or even a funky plaid suit. You could also go classic and simple with a one-piece black suit. Keep makeup simple. If you want to wear makeup to the pool, keep it simple. Most of it is probably going to wash off anyway, so you might as well go light. Skip the foundation altogether, if you use it, and just go with a primer. Any makeup you wear should obviously be waterproof so it doesn't run all over your face. Try a waterproof mascara and a waterproof lipstick in a light color. Go for a messy look with hair. Once again, if you're getting in the pool, you don't want a super fancy hairdo. You can go for a messy, wavy look by spraying in a texturizer that adds waves. You can also twist your bangs up and then pin them back out of your face. Throw your hair up in a ponytail if that's more your style. If your hair is super short, just go for a wild, natural look, as it will soon be getting wet. Wear something besides a bathing suit. When you arrive and leave, it's best to have something besides just your bathing suit on. Plus, there are likely to be games and food, and you'll want to have some clothes on for that. However, you can keep it simple. Throw on a t-shirt over your swim shorts or a coverup dress over your bathing suit, and you're good to go. Add a pair of cool sandals and shades to complete the look. Arrive and leave for ultimate coolness. While getting to class early will win you points with the teacher, being the first person to a pool party probably won't earn you any cool points. Try arriving just at the party's start time or a few minutes afterwards. Similarly, if you're the last person to leave, you might be perceived as not knowing when it's time to go (uncool), so try leaving when you notice that the party is starting to thin out. Be confident. Nothing is quite as cool as confidence. Confidence just means you believe in yourself and what you can do. At a party, confidence might look like approaching new people, trying a new cannonball, or joining in with the games instead of hanging back on the sidelines. If you're feeling a bit shy or unsteady, just remind yourself how cool you are. You could say (in your head), "I'm an awesome singer, and people want to be my friend because I'm funny." Be yourself. Being yourself may, at times, seem contradictory to being confident if you're naturally shy. However, it's more an extension of being confident. Cool people are secure in who they are, and they have no problem letting other people see that. Don't be afraid to just be yourself. For instance, if someone cracks a joke you find funny, giggle to your heart's content. Don't be so shy that you hold back. Have fun. Cool people don't let anything get in the way of having some fun. Get up and dance to the music, or start a cannonball contest. Invite people to have a limbo contest. Just have a good time, and invite others to do the same. Keep in mind, your fun shouldn't come at anyone else's expense. Don't make fun of people, or create a huge mess or inconvenience. Meet new people. Don't just hang out with your same-old group of friends. Try mingling to meet some new people. If you're a bit shy, take a friend along with you while you mingle. That way, you'll have someone comfortable by your side, but you'll also be meeting new people. As you wander around the party, look for places you can introduce yourself to new people. When you see an opening, walk up and say, "Hi, I'm Jess. I don't think I've met you before." Strike up a conversation. You can start with something about the party, such as "It's a great day for a party, don't you think?" or "I really like the decorations. What do you think?" Take a break if you need to. Not everyone is okay being around other people for hours at a time. If you feel like you're getting overwhelmed, look for somewhere to take a quiet break. If you're at someone's house, you can ask if there's somewhere you can sit for a minute. You could say you just want to get out of the sun for a minute. It's much cooler to take a break than to start getting irritated in the middle of a party because you're tired of people. Bring a gift. If it's a birthday party, of course it's nice to bring a gift for the birthday person. It doesn't need to be expensive. However, it should be thoughtful, meaning you think about what the person likes and find something they would like. Even if it's not a birthday party, it's nice to bring a gift for the host to say "Thank you!" You'll look cool if you make the host happy. For instance, you could bring a bouquet of flowers or cool gadget. It's also a good idea to thank the host both when you arrive and when you leave. A simple, "Thank you so much for inviting me!" is all you need. Grab a bag for the basics. You'll probably need a bag for things like a towel, your keys, and your mobile phone. You might also want a change of clothes, and you'll definitely want your sunscreen. A hat might be a good idea, too, just in case you get tired of the sun. Slather on the sunscreen. Burned skin and the possibility of sun cancer are decidedly not cool. If you think wearing sunscreen is "uncool," consider applying it before the party. You can also take a bathroom to reapply it partway through. Use a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher with broad spectrum protection. | Wear what you feel comfortable in to swim. Keep makeup simple. Go for a messy look with hair. Wear something besides a bathing suit. Arrive and leave for ultimate coolness. Be confident. Be yourself. Have fun. Meet new people. Take a break if you need to. Bring a gift. Grab a bag for the basics. Slather on the sunscreen. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Hold-a-Violin | How to Hold a Violin | To hold a violin, start by placing the broad end onto your collarbone and shoulder with the neck of the violin facing outward. Next, lower your chin until it touches the chin rest, and then angle your head to the left so that you're looking 90 degrees from the instrument. Finally, pivot the violin toward the center to create a line extending from your nose outward for the correct holding position. When you're playing, keep the angle of the violin relatively steady so that the strings remain parallel to the ground. | Sit down in a straight-backed chair or stand up straight. It doesn't matter if you choose to sit or stand, but it does matter that you keep your core engaged and that you sit up or stand up straight. You want to feel like you have power up through your body. Don’t slouch. Slouching can lead to decreased speed and eventual pain. When sitting, both feet should be flat on the ground with the same positioning as if you were standing. Position your feet. If you're standing, position your feet a comfortable distance apart. They should be slightly less than shoulder-width apart, with your left foot a bit in front of the right. Place your weight fairly evenly between your two feet. When moving while playing, you may shift the weight between your feet. Place the violin on your neck and shoulder. You should rest the broad end of the violin onto your left collarbone with the neck of the violin facing outward. It should feel like a relatively natural, stable position. Place your chin on the chinrest. Lower you head straight down until it touches the chin rest. This may feel slightly less natural, but you also shouldn't be straining yourself too dramatically. Your chin should only drop, not stretch. Angle your head properly. Now that your chin is on the chinrest, angle your head a little to the left so that you are looking 90 degrees from your violin. You want to angle your head in such a way that the chin rest runs along your jaw and ends at your chin. Pivot the violin toward the center. It should create a line that extends from your nose outward. This is the correct way to hold a violin. If this is your first time holding a violin it might seem difficult, but get in the habit of doing it this way. Otherwise you will develop bad habits that will make it difficult to progress in the future. Keep the angle of the violin relatively steady while playing. When you play, the angle of the violin will fluctuate from left to right depending on the type of music and your comfort level. However, the angle should not deviate too much more than 20 degrees. Hold the violin straight with the strings parallel to the ground. The violin has a tendency to drop with bad posture, so check your posture if you notice the violin dropping constantly. To help with this, tie a rope from the ceiling and attach it to the scroll of the violin. Make sure that the rope is short enough that it is taut when the violin is in the proper position. Position your left hand at the end of the violin's neck, before the struts. Hold the neck between your left thumb and forefinger, as if you are pinching it. You don't need to hold it too tightly or you will cramp your hand. Curl your forefinger onto the top of the neck. The remaining fingers should not touch the violin. The violin should rest on that knuckle lightly. The weight of the violin should be distributed evenly between this knuckle and your collarbone. Establish a straight line from your left wrist to your forearm. Do not twist your wrist. This positioning will change depending on the type of music being played and which strings you are using. This is the basic 1st position. Grasp the bow. You need to hold the bow at the end of the bow. Don't choke up on it like a baseball bat. Hold it with your right thumb and fingers. Your forefinger should rest on top of the bow's pad and your pinky finger should sit on a screw. Now you are ready to play. | Sit down in a straight-backed chair or stand up straight. Don’t slouch. Position your feet. Place the violin on your neck and shoulder. Place your chin on the chinrest. Angle your head properly. Pivot the violin toward the center. Keep the angle of the violin relatively steady while playing. Hold the violin straight with the strings parallel to the ground. Position your left hand at the end of the violin's neck, before the struts. Curl your forefinger onto the top of the neck. Establish a straight line from your left wrist to your forearm. Grasp the bow. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Wash-a-Bra | How to Wash a Bra | If you want to wash your bra in the washing machine, close the clasps before you put it in so the hooks don't catch in the machine and get damaged. To protect the bra from jeans and rougher items, consider placing it in a mesh lingerie bag. When you put the bra in the machine, make sure you wash it with similar colors, use a mild detergent, and set the machine to a gentle spin. After the cycle is done, air dry the bra instead of putting it in a drier to prevent the straps from getting stretched and losing their elasticity. | Fill a sink with warm water and add some mild detergent. Unless you are washing a great number of hand-wash items, you will only need between 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon of detergent. If you do not have a sink, you can use a bucket instead. Be sure that you are using an alcohol-free detergent intended for hand washing garments. If you do not have any mild detergents at home, you can easily make one of your own: Combine 1 cup (240 milliliters) of hot water, 1 teaspoon of baby shampoo, and 1 to 2 drops essential oil (such as lavender or chamomile). Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water, then add your homemade detergent. Dilute some liquid castile soap with water, and add it to a sink or bucket filled with warm water. Mix the detergent into the water. Do this by swishing your hand around in the water. Keep doing this until you get some bubbles and foam. Do not get concerned if there is not a lot of foam; too many suds will not only not clean better, but wastes detergent, and makes rinsing a longer process. Add the bras in. Try to wash similar colors together, especially cotton bras, as dark colors can discolor light colors. Bras made of synthetic materials can typically be washed together without fear of "bleeding". Let the bras sit in the soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the detergent to dissolve any oils or dirt. For particularly dirty bras, leave them in the water for one hour. Swish and squish the bras. This helps loosen and dirt and oils. The water will be pretty murky by now. Drain the dirty water and rinse the bras with clean water. Do this until the water runs clear. Consider rinsing them in the bathtub, which will give you more space. Repeat the soapy water bath and rinsing for very dirty bras. If your bras have not been washed in a while, you may need to give them another soak in fresh, soapy water; do not use the old, dirty water again. Be sure to rinse the bras well, until there is no soap left. Press the bras between two towels to remove any moisture. Lay the bra down on a towel, and cover it with another towel. Press down on the bra and towel. Do not squeeze or wring the bra. Reshape the cups and let the bra air dry. You can either hang the bra up or you can lay it down on a clean, dry towel. If you choose to hang the bra to dry, do not hang it by the straps, as this will cause them to stretch. Instead, drape the bra by the middle over a clothesline or a drying rack. You can also clip the band of the bra to a hanger. Close the claps and hooks. If you do not close your bra, the hooks will often catch on other items in the wash and may rip them, or the hooks may deform. Straps can sometimes tangle on other laundry items, which may put stress on them. If your bra does not have any closures (such as a sports bra), then do not worry about this. Put the bra in a mesh lingerie bag. This will prevent the bra from getting tangled in other items. It will also protect it from rougher items, such as jeans. It can also be handy for sorting later. Put the bra into the washing machine with similar colors. If you are washing your bra at the same time as the rest of the laundry, make sure that you are not mixing colors. Wash white bras with other white clothes. Be sure to wash light-colored bras (such as beige and pastels) with other light-colored clothes, and to wash dark-colored bras (such as navy and black) with other dark-colored clothes. Mixing colors can cause dyes to bleed, which results in faded and murky colors. Consider putting the bra in with fabrics with other lightweight items. Try to wash your bras with lighter-weight items, such as t-shirts, underwear, socks, and pajamas. Jeans and towels are much heavier than bras and could damage them. Wash the bra using a mild detergent and a gentle cycle. Be sure to use cold water, as hot water can weaken the fibers and cause the straps to become less stretchy. Do not use any strong detergents; strong detergents can eat away at the fibers and make the fabric weaker over time and can deteriorate the fabric. Reshape the bra cups once the cycle is done, if needed. Take the bra out of the mesh bag, and press on the inside of the cup until it pops back out to its original shape. This is typically more needed for padded or shaping bras. If the bra is soaking and dripping wet, do not wring or twist them; instead, put the bra between two towels, and press down on the towels to remove any excess moisture Air dry the bra. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat will cause the bra straps to stretch and lose their elasticity. You can air dry the bra by draping it across a drying rack or clothesline. You can also clip the band of the bra to a hanger, and hang it up to dry. Do not hang the bra by the straps; this will cause the bra straps to stretch too much. If you do not have any spare hangers, clotheslines, or drying racks, you can lay the bra out flat on a clean, dry towel. If you must use a dryer, ideally use the "no heat" setting. Be sure to keep the bra in its mesh bag to prevent any tangling. Putting a bra in a hot or warm dryer will not likely do immediate harm. If this does happen, there is usually no reason to panic. This is not ideal treatment, but rarely causes a bra to become unusable. | Fill a sink with warm water and add some mild detergent. Mix the detergent into the water. Add the bras in. Let the bras sit in the soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. Swish and squish the bras. Drain the dirty water and rinse the bras with clean water. Repeat the soapy water bath and rinsing for very dirty bras. Press the bras between two towels to remove any moisture. Reshape the cups and let the bra air dry. Close the claps and hooks. Put the bra in a mesh lingerie bag. Put the bra into the washing machine with similar colors. Consider putting the bra in with fabrics with other lightweight items. Wash the bra using a mild detergent and a gentle cycle. Reshape the bra cups once the cycle is done, if needed. Air dry the bra. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-a-Beehive | How to Get Rid of a Beehive | Before getting rid of a beehive, dress in light-colored, protective clothing, thick leather gloves, and use something to cover your face. Avoid wearing dark colors, since this can aggravate bees. In the early morning or evening, when the bees are least active, spray the entry hole of the hive liberally with a strong insecticide. Once you no longer see bees flying in and out, physically remove the hive and dispose of it in a plastic bag so new bees can't move in. | Confirm that you’re dealing with a beehive. Technically speaking, only certain kinds of bees, including honey bees, create beehives. Beehives are waxy (not made of paper-like material), can vary widely in size, and are usually built into an opening of an existing structure (like a tree or house). Wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets, as well as bumblebees and carpenter bees, all build different kinds of nests that aren't actually hives. Honey bee hives typically house 10,000-50,000 or more bees. Check a reliable online guide to help determine what type of bee or stinging insect you're dealing with, and if the nest is in fact a beehive. Leave the beehive alone if the bees aren’t bothering you. Bee populations are currently in decline, for reasons that are not fully understood. So, if the bees in the hive are not bothering you, but are simply in the garden pollinating your flowers, leave them alone. They don't sting unless they feel threatened. However, always call a professional if you're allergic to bee venom. If you're allergic, a bee sting may cause swelling of the throat or lips, and can in rare cases be fatal. Likewise, if the beehive is attached to your home, you should always take action and have it removed. The bees will probably work their way into your home, and the expanding hive can cause major structural damage over time. Bees pollinate a large percentage of the food crops humans eat, along with thousands of varieties of flowering plants. So, unless you have a good reason to live without bees, try to learn to live with them. Hire a beekeeper to relocate a troublesome hive. Because honey bee numbers are on the decline, local beekeepers may be willing relocate your hive to their beekeeping operation for free or a nominal fee. And, if they don't provide that service themselves, they probably know of someone who does. Look online or in a phone book. Search for beekeepers or apiaries in your local area. Ask at locally-owned markets or general stores—especially if they sell local honey—for leads on local bee wranglers or beekeepers. Call your local farmer's market or plant nursery, as they probably deal with beekeepers. Call an exterminator if relocation or DIY removal aren’t viable options. In some cases, you simply won't be able to find anyone who's willing to relocate the hive for you. If you really need to get rid of the beehive, extermination is your only choice. Unless you're sure you can safely handle the job yourself, play it safe and call a professional exterminator. Don't assume a hive is small based on what you can see. Beehives can extend deep into walls, trees, chimneys, roofs, etc. Removing a large or hard-to-reach hive can be very dangerous and requires great skill, training, and experience. The cost of hiring a either a beekeeper or an exterminator varies widely based on numerous factors. Generally speaking, expect to pay somewhere between $100 and $1000 USD. Plan ahead for the extermination, hive removal, and any home repairs. Before you grab an insecticide and douse the beehive, take the time to prepare for the complete process. This is especially important if the hive is built into or onto your house. You should: Prepare to do repairs following the removal of a large honey bee hive from a home. Walls or structure may need to be cut away to gain access. Plan to bee-proof to avoid further infestation in areas where the hive and honey can't be removed (for instance, behind stucco and brick). Consider evacuating those with allergies, children, pets, and the elderly from the immediate area where a hive is active. Wait for late evening or early morning, and (ideally) late winter. Bees are normally asleep (and thus in the hive) in the late evening and early morning, so these are the best times to spray the hive. In terms of seasons, the best time to remove a beehive is late winter to early spring. During this time the beehive population is smallest. Bees are less active at night, and will likely all be at the hive then. However, it's harder to see and effectively kill bees at night. If you do want to spray at night, use a flashlight with red cellophane covering it—bees can't see red light. Put on protective gear like long sleeves, gloves, and a bee veil. Dress appropriately for exterminating a beehive. Clothing is a very important part in the process of removing beehives. Light colored clothing with a smooth texture is best for removing bees. Dark colors and rough clothing are more likely to agitate bees. Choose heavyweight clothing that covers your arms and legs. You may want to invest in a white beekeeper's suit. Wear gloves that offer substantial protection for your hands. Professionals usually prefer leather gloves when removing beehives. Professionals use a beekeeper's veil, which offers great protection while not hindering your vision. Buy one online or at an agricultural supply store. Don't wear heavy scents like perfume, cologne, or scented deodorant. The bees may confuse your scent for that of flowers. Choose an insecticide that’s intended for killing bees. While you can find homemade recipes for eradicating beehives online, your best bet is to use a commercial insecticide. Go to a home center and pick out an insecticide spray that is marketed for use on bees. Instead of a spray, you can instead buy an insecticide dusting powder. The application process will be quite similar regardless. Spray the insecticide right into the main entry hole of the beehive. All beehives have a main entry hole that is usually easy to locate. Hold the nozzle of the spray can right up to the opening and spray for several seconds, until you estimate that you've saturated the entire hive interior. If you're using an insecticide dust, stick the tip of the applicator into the hole and squeeze the bottle to inject the dust into the hive. If you can't find or can't access the main entry hole, spray the insecticide all over the outside of the hive. This will do the job eventually, but it will likely take several more spraying applications over a few days. Repeat the process daily until there’s no more hive activity. Check the hive the day after spraying it. If you don't see any bees enter or exit over a period of 5-10 minutes, the hive is almost certainly eradicated. Otherwise, spray your chosen insecticide into the hole again and check the following day for activity. Don't start removing the hive until all the bees are dead. Otherwise, they'll become very aggressive when you tear into their home! Also, if you're unable to remove the entire hive, any remaining bees may be able to rebuild it. Remove all of the empty hive, or at least as much as you can. Once the spraying is done and you don't see any bees flying in or out of the hive, physically remove the beehive as soon as you can. Removing the beehive prevents other bees from moving in. If the hive is attached to a tree limb or underneath a carport, for instance, it should be fairly easy to pull it all down by hand. If it extends deep into a hollow tree or the side of your house, however, you may have to resort to some fairly significant demolition. Bring in a professional if you aren't certain you can handle the job yourself. Wear the same safety gear as when you sprayed the hive. There could still be a few angry bees left lurking deep in the hive! Dispose of the hive in a heavy duty trash bag. Use a contractor-grade trash bag or 2 thick trash bags to to dispose of the beehive. Once you place the beehive (whole or in pieces) in the trash bag, securely tie the bag. Place it in the trash container and put it out for trash pickup. Securely bag up the hive as soon as you can, so other bees aren't tempted to move in. Never try to collect any honey from a hive after you've sprayed it with insecticide! Scrub away any remnants of the hive, especially against your home. It's important to clean the area once the beehive is removed. Beehives are full of bacteria, and any remaining hive structure and bee corpses will rot and smell foul. Scrub the area with soap and water for the best results. Make sure all of the hive and honey is removed whenever possible. Honey and dead bees may attract other bees, wax moths, or ants. Do not leave sections of a hive within the structure of your home. Even if you seal it off so bees can't get back in, the hive will rot and smell bad. Also, the wax will eventually melt and can damage the wiring or structure of your home. Seal off the area so a new hive can’t be built there. If you leave the area open, future swarms of bees may build beehives in the same spot. If the hive was in a tree trunk, for instance, use expanding spray foam, caulk, or even concrete to block off the opening. If the hive was against your home, garage, or other structure, patch up any damage and seal any openings in the area. Hire a professional to repair the structure if you're not capable of doing it yourself. Unfortunately, large beehives can cause major structural damage to homes. That's why it's important to deal with a beehive that's against your home as soon as you notice it. | Confirm that you’re dealing with a beehive. Leave the beehive alone if the bees aren’t bothering you. Hire a beekeeper to relocate a troublesome hive. Call an exterminator if relocation or DIY removal aren’t viable options. Plan ahead for the extermination, hive removal, and any home repairs. Wait for late evening or early morning, and (ideally) late winter. Put on protective gear like long sleeves, gloves, and a bee veil. Choose an insecticide that’s intended for killing bees. Spray the insecticide right into the main entry hole of the beehive. Repeat the process daily until there’s no more hive activity. Remove all of the empty hive, or at least as much as you can. Dispose of the hive in a heavy duty trash bag. Scrub away any remnants of the hive, especially against your home. Seal off the area so a new hive can’t be built there. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Diagnose-the-Cause-of-a-Swollen-Abdomen-in-Cats | How to Diagnose the Cause of a Swollen Abdomen in Cats | To diagnose the cause of a swollen abdomen in your cat, keep an eye out for symptoms like frequent urination, lethargy, or lack of appetite, which could be signs that your cat has an infection or parasite. Also, check your cat's litter box to see if it's suffering from diarrhea, which could indicate a serious viral infection, such as FIP. If you spot these symptoms, take your cat to the vet right away, since conditions like FIP can be fatal. At your appointment, your vet will run tests, such as bloodwork and X-rays, to diagnose the cause of your cat's swollen abdomen. | Look for signs of malnutrition. Cats who have malnutrition often have a distended belly. A distended belly may appear as if it bloated or sticking out. It may look to have very little fat or muscle covering it. Malnutrition is common in cats who: Eat food prepared at home. Are kept on a vegan or vegetarian diet. Lack enough Vitamin E, copper, zinc, and potassium. Eat food that contains a lot of vegetable oil. Observe to see if the cat is simply overweight. Typically, a cat will need about 30 calories a day per pound of weight. If your cat consumes more than this, they may become obese. Consult your vet and/or the nutritional information on the back of your cat food packaging. You can use a cat body condition score chart to determine if your cat is overweight, such as the one found here: https://www.wsava.org/sites/default/files/Body%20condition%20score%20chart%20cats.pdf. Notice signs of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). FIP is a potentially fatal condition that starts as a viral infection and is common in areas or households with a high cat population. In addition to a distended abdomen, diarrhea is one of the most common signs of FIP. FIP can be confirmed through blood tests that test liver enzyme levels, bilirubin levels, and globulin levels. Wet FIP can also be diagnosed by obtaining a sample of the abdominal fluid. Look for signs of infection, virus, or parasites. There are a wide variety of communicable diseases that may cause a swollen abdomen in cats. While most cases are minor, some might lead to serious problems for the affected cat. Look for symptoms of: Pyometra, which is an infection in a female cat's reproductive system. Pyometra may manifest in lethargy, lack of appetite, or frequent urination. Intestinal worms. The most common symptom of intestinal worms may be rice-like objects in your cat's fecal matter or around their anus. Identify signs of cancer or a tumorous growth. These are perhaps one of the most serious causes of a swollen abdomen in cats, and you should seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect it. Some of the most common symptoms of cancer or tumors are abnormal skin growths and/or loss of appetite. Look for signs of metabolic or digestive issues. Metabolic and digestive issues (like diabetes and colitis) may be one of the most common causes of swollen abdomen in cats. Common signs include change in appetite, weight change, and/or a decline in energy level. If you suspect your cat has a metabolic or digestive issue, you may need to have your vet run blood tests to confirm or rule out these conditions. Explain the timetable of your cat's swollen abdomen. Give your vet a sense of when and/or how quickly your cat developed a swollen abdomen. This is important information your vet will need when they diagnose your cat. Inform them if: Your cat developed a swollen abdomen overnight or over the course of several days. Your cat developed a swollen abdomen over the course of several weeks or months. Discuss your cat's eating patterns. Your cat's appetite is likely connected to their swollen abdomen. This is because an infection in the abdomen or other problems in the digestive system will impact whether your cat wants to or even has the appetite to eat. Let your vet know if your cat: Is eating less. Is eating more. Has a complete lack of appetite. Throws up after eating. Has been started on a new food recently. Allow your vet to run bloodwork. Bloodwork is essential in helping to arrive at a diagnosis about what is causing your cat's swollen abdomen. Without bloodwork, your vet won't have basic information about your cat's immune system and more. Bloodwork may: Give your vet information about your cat's immune system. If your cat has an infection, like pyometra, they will have elevated white cell counts. Ask your vet to run diagnostics. Take your cat to a board certified internal medicine specialist for an endoscopic exam and biopsy. The vet may have to run a variety of diagnostic tests to arrive at a proper diagnosis. Some diagnostics that might shed light on a swollen abdomen include: X-rays. An X-ray might help your vet locate any cancerous growths or infected organs. An ultrasound. An ultrasound will give your doctor a lot of information and may help rule out or confirm the diagnosis of cancer. In addition, it will let the vet know if there is an accumulation of fluid in or around the abdominal cavity. A biopsy. If your vet locates a growth or infected area within your cat's abdomen, they might need to take a biopsy. | Look for signs of malnutrition. Observe to see if the cat is simply overweight. Notice signs of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Look for signs of infection, virus, or parasites. Identify signs of cancer or a tumorous growth. Look for signs of metabolic or digestive issues. Explain the timetable of your cat's swollen abdomen. Discuss your cat's eating patterns. Allow your vet to run bloodwork. Ask your vet to run diagnostics. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Beef-Gravy | How to Make Beef Gravy | To make beef gravy with cornstarch, gather 2 tablespoons of pan drippings and pour them into a small saucepan. In a separate dish, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of water until a thin paste forms. Then, turn the heat on low and whisk the cornstarch mixture into the pan drippings. Slowly pour in 2 cups of beef stock, mixing the gravy with the whisk continuously to combine. When the gravy is your desired consistency, turn the heat off and mix in salt and pepper to taste before serving! | Pour 2 Tbsp (30 ml) pan drippings into a small saucepan. After you finish cooking a roast, steak, or other cut of beef, remove 2 Tbsp (30 ml) of the beef drippings inside the pan. Transfer these drippings to a small saucepan. Keep the gravy ingredients warm by placing the saucepan on the stove. Set the temperature to low or medium-low heat. Remove as much liquid as possible but avoid the fat. Note that this type of beef gravy requires you to prepare a cut of beef before you can prepare the gravy. Combine the cornstarch and water. In a separate dish, whisk together the 2 Tbsp (30 ml) of cornstarch with 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water. Combine until a thin paste forms. Use cool water. The exact temperature does not matter, but it should be slightly cooler than room temperature. Add the cornstarch slurry to the drippings. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan of beef drippings, whisking well to combine. Continue whisking over low heat until the gravy begins to thicken notably. Slowly stir in beef stock. Pour roughly 2 cups (500 ml) of beef stock or beef broth into the saucepan, whisking it in gradually yet thoroughly. Alternate back and forth between adding stock and whisking it in. You should be able to maintain the consistency fairly well if you add the stock gradually. If the gravy starts to become thinner than you would prefer, stop adding the stock and let simmer, stirring frequently, to evaporate some of the liquid off. This step will take at least 5 minutes. You could also use water, milk, cream, or some combination of liquids instead of the stock. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the seasonings into the gravy and give a quick stir to incorporate them into the liquid. The salt and pepper should be added according to your own preferences. If you are uncertain about how much to add, try adding 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) ground black pepper and 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) salt. Serve immediately. Remove the gravy from the heat and ladle it into a gravy boat or other serving dish. Serve alongside your meal. Pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup. After preparing a roast, steak, or other cut of beef, pour the drippings from the pan into a measuring cup. You could also use a fat separator, if you have one. If not, a large glass measuring cup works best. Use a measuring cup that holds at least 2 cups (500 ml) of liquid. Note that this recipe for beef gravy can only be prepared if you cooked a roast, steak, or other cut of beef that produced adequate pan drippings. Skim the fat. Remove the fat from the top of the pan drippings using a spoon. Reserve 2 Tbsp (30 ml) and discard the rest. Transfer the 2 Tbsp (30 ml) of reserved fat to a small saucepan and set aside. Add broth or stock to the drippings. Pour enough beef stock or beef broth into the removed drippings to create 2 cups (500 ml) of liquid. If desired, you could use water, milk, or cream instead of the stock, but beef stock or broth will create a stronger beef taste. Combine the flour and reserved fat. Add 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of flour to the fat in the saucepan and cook over medium heat until smooth. Stir the flour and fat together until thoroughly blended. The combination of fat and flour is referred to as a roux. For a thicker gravy, use 2 Tbsp (30 ml) of flour. Gradually add the drippings. Slowly pour the combination of pan drippings and broth into the roux, whisking continually to prevent lumps of flour from forming. If possible, whisk and pour at the same time to maintain more even control over the consistency of the gravy. If this is too difficult, however, you can alternate back and forth between adding the drippings mixture and stirring it in. Thicken the gravy. Bring the gravy to a boil and stir until it thickens. Do not cover the saucepan. Season the gravy. Add salt and pepper to the gravy, as desired, in order to season it. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings. If you are uncertain about how much to use, try adding 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) salt and 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) ground black pepper. Serve warm. Pour the beef gravy into a gravy boat and serve with your meal. Heat 2 Tbsp (30 ml) butter in a small saucepan. Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat and let the butter melt completely. Proceed to the next step as soon as the butter is melted. Do not allow too much smoking or sizzling to occur after the butter melts. You could also use a medium skillet instead of a small saucepan. Note that this version of beef gravy can be prepared even if you do not cook a roast or other cut of beef. As such, it is perfect for use with mashed potatoes or pre-cooked beef dishes. Cook the onion in the butter. Add the chopped onion to the melted butter in the saucepan and stir continually for several minutes. Use a heat-resistant flat spatula to stir the chopped onion. Cook the onion for 2 to 3 minutes or until it becomes tender and translucent. Do not let the onion brown or burn. Add the remaining butter and flour. Add the remaining 2 Tbsp (30 ml) butter to the pan and let it melt. Immediately after it melts, stir in the 1/4 cup (60 ml) of flour. The combination of butter and flour, or flour and any other fat, is referred to as a roux. This is an essential component of forming a thick gravy or sauce. Make sure that the onion, butter, and flour are thoroughly mixed. There should be no visible clumps of flour remaining. Mix the water and beef bouillon. In a separate dish, combine boiling water and beef bouillon granules. Stir the granules into the water until dissolved. You could use 3 beef bouillon cubes instead of 3 tsp (15 ml) beef bouillon granules, if desired. Add the beef-flavored liquid to the roux. Slowly stir the beef-flavored liquid into the butter, flour, and onion in the saucepan. Whisk the ingredients in as you pour to prevent lumps from forming. If you cannot pour and whisk simultaneously, alternate back and forth between pouring a little of the liquid in and stirring the liquid into the roux. Try to maintain a smooth consistency as you add the liquid. Cook until thickened. Bring the gravy to a boil over medium heat and let it cook for several minutes. Stir the gravy occasionally as it cooks. Do not cover the saucepan. Serve warm. Ladle the gravy into a gravy boat or other serving dish. Serve alongside the rest of your meal. Finished. | Pour 2 Tbsp (30 ml) pan drippings into a small saucepan. Combine the cornstarch and water. Add the cornstarch slurry to the drippings. Slowly stir in beef stock. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately. Pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup. Skim the fat. Add broth or stock to the drippings. Combine the flour and reserved fat. Gradually add the drippings. Thicken the gravy. Season the gravy. Serve warm. Heat 2 Tbsp (30 ml) butter in a small saucepan. Cook the onion in the butter. Add the remaining butter and flour. Mix the water and beef bouillon. Add the beef-flavored liquid to the roux. Cook until thickened. Serve warm. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Echium | How to Grow Echium | Echium are shrubs that produce tall crowns with small, bell-shaped flowers. To grow your own echium from seeds, you'll want to plant them in early spring after the last frost when they'll have the best growing conditions. Plant the seeds somewhere they'll get 6 to 8 hours of sunlight a day and use well-draining, loamy or sandy soil. Water your soil, then dig small holes 2 to 4 inches apart. Plant the seeds in the holes and cover them with a quarter-inch of soil. Keep the soil moist for the first 3 weeks. After that, you only need to water the seeds when the soil gets dry. | Go with a giant viper’s bugloss if you have space for a large plant. Echium pininana , also known as giant viper's bugloss and tower of jewels, produces a 12 ft (3.7 m) crown festooned with small, bell-shaped flowers. It's a good option if you have a lot of space and need a focal point in your garden. A giant viper's bugloss requires enough space to accommodate its height and at least 3 ft (0.91 m) of room to spread its roots. Because it's so tall, it needs protection from the wind, so the best planting spot would be by a wall or fence. Since the flowering spike doesn't grow until the second year, the plant needs to survive winter. While it might be able to handle 1 or 2 nights just below freezing, it's not the best choice for colder climates. Choose a mid-sized option if you don’t have room for a tree. Echium candicans , or pride of Madeira, resembles the tower of jewels, but it's smaller, with a maximum height of 4 ⁄ 2 to 8 ft (1.4 to 2.4 m). If that's still too big, Echium vulgare , or common viper's bugloss, tops out at around 3 ft (0.91 m). Like their larger cousin, pride of Madeira and viper's bugloss are biennials, which means they typically flower in their second year. These species are slightly more frost-tolerant than giant viper's bugloss, but they still need protection during extended periods of freezing temperatures. Plant a low-growing species if you want ground cover. If you need to take up horizontal space rather than make a vertical statement, go with Echium plantagineum or a cultivar of Echium vulgare known as blue bedder. Both of these varieties reach maximum heights of 1 to 2 ft (30 to 61 cm). Like other species, these varieties prefer milder winters and need protection during extended periods of freezing temperatures. However, it's easier to protect them with horticultural fleece than it is covering a 12 ft (3.7 m) giant. Echium plantagineum is toxic to livestock, so it's not suitable if animals graze near your planting area. Additionally, some echium species are classified as invasive in parts of Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Consult your county, province, or state agriculture department about any local environmental concerns. Make sure your plants will get at least 6 to 8 hours of sun. Whether you go with a tower of jewels or a low-growing blue bedder, all members of the echium family require full sun. Before choosing plants for your garden, observe the amount of sunlight it receives. Ideally, the planting area should receive at least 8 hours of sun from the morning through the early afternoon. If you live in a hot climate, your plants will appreciate a little shade from the intense late afternoon sun. Members of the echium family are better suited to soil beds, especially larger species. However, they can be grown in large containers. They still need plenty of direct sunlight, so the pots need to be kept outside during the growing season. Use well-draining, loamy or sandy soil. Waterlogged soil will kill any species of echium. If you have dense clay soil, you'll need to dig it out at least 3 ft (0.91 m) deep and amend it with sand, loam, or equal parts garden soil and perlite. Echium varieties actually prefer poor soil conditions, so there's no need to add fertilizer. Since they're drought-tolerant, species of echium have become popular landscaping choices in dry climates, such as the western United States. Sow seeds in early spring after the threat of frost has passed. If you sow seeds in the early spring, you'll have a shot at seeing flowers in late summer that same year. Even if your plants don't bloom until their second year, they'll still produce spiky silver leaves that will add interest to your garden. You can find echium seeds online or at a garden center. If winter temperatures don't routinely fall below 40 °F (4 °C), you can also sow seeds in late summer, but you won't see blooms until the following year at the earliest. For cold climates, you may have to sow seeds indoors, then transplant seedlings after the threat of frost has passed. Dig out the soil and, if necessary, amend it. Prepare the planting area by tilling the soil and removing any weeds. If your soil is dense or compacted, rake in sand, loam, or a mixture of equal parts garden soil and perlite. The roots of larger species will spread deep, so dig at least 2 to 3 ft (0.61 to 0.91 m) into the soil. Scatter seeds thinly, or around 2 to 4 in (5.1 to 10.2 cm) apart. Water the soil bed well, then broadcast your seeds. Check your package's instructions for specific spacing requirements. For larger species, you might have to transplant seedlings once they sprout so they have enough space to thrive. Freely broadcasting seeds is quick and easy, but you could also dig small grooves in the soil bed, then sow the seeds in these grooves. That way, it'll be easier to distinguish echium sprouts, which will shoot from the grooves, from undesired weeds. Cover the seeds with about 1⁄4 in (6.4 mm) of soil. Echium seeds need light to germinate, so you don't want to bury them with a thick layer of soil. Instead, lightly scatter a dusting of soil over the seeds after broadcasting them. Water the planting area regularly for 2 to 3 weeks. Keep the planting area moist, but avoid drenching the soil, or runoff might wash away your seeds. The seeds will sprout within 3 weeks, and you can then start watering the bed less frequently. During heavy downpours, cover seeds and seedlings with garden cloches or a tarp to keep them from getting washed away. Dig a hole that’s 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball. To provide support, the hole's depth should be equal to the size of the root ball. It also needs to be 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball so the roots have room to spread. After planting, you'll fill in the hole with loose soil, which will provide air circulation and room to grow. If your soil is dense, amend it with loam or sand before planting. Massage the root ball gently before planting it. Water the seedling or shrub thoroughly, then remove it from its container. Gently massage the roots with your fingertips to loosen them. Massaging the roots will encourage them to spread out and establish themselves in their new home. Plant the root ball and cover it with loose soil. Place the root ball into the hole, then use your hands or a garden trowel to bury it. Fill in soil up to where the roots meet the stem. The roots need drainage, air circulation, and room to grow, so keep the soil loose instead of packing it. If you have a smaller species of echium, place individual plants about 20 in (51 cm) apart. If you're planting a larger species, space individuals about 50 in (1.3 m) apart. Keep the soil moist for around 3 or 4 weeks. Water thoroughly after planting, but don't flood the planting area. Water the bed frequently and avoid letting the soil dry out until the plants establish themselves, which will take a few weeks. You'll know the plants are established when you start seeing new growth. Water only when the soil is dry once the plants are established. After a few weeks of sowing seeds or transplanting seedlings, start watering your plants less frequently. Regular rainfall should provide enough water, but check the soil regularly during dry spells. Stick your finger about 2 in (5.1 cm) into the soil, pull it out, and water the bed if it's so dry that no dirt sticks to your finger. You're better off watering echium less frequently, since they don't like soggy soil. If you haven't had rain in 2 or 3 weeks and the leaves are slightly wilted, your plants need water. Otherwise, there's no need to fuss over them. Pack the soil as a taller species grows to offer it support. When your towering jewel or pride of Madeira starts producing its spike of flowers, gently pack the soil around the base so it doesn't topple. If it starts to lean, you might need to tie it to a stake for support. Keep in mind choosing a planting spot near a wall or fence can help protect taller plants from the wind. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooms and control reseeding. To deadhead your plants, pluck fading flowers from the central spike before they have a chance to drop a seed. For some species, deadheading can also extend the flowering period from 2 months to 4 months. All echium species self-seed, which means they drop seeds after their flowers fade. A single plant can produce around 2,000 seeds, and your echium might take over your entire garden if you allow them to freely self-seed. Check for slugs regularly, and remove any that you find. Species of echium aren't prone to many diseases or pests, but they are susceptible to slug and snail infestations. Every few days, hold back foliage and examine your plants' stems. Look for slugs, snails, irregular holes in the stems, or slime trails. Remove any organisms you find. If you have an infestation on your hands, purchase pesticide pellets labeled for slugs and snails at your local garden center. Scatter the pellets thinly around your plants according to your product's instructions. If you find an infestation is getting out of control, you may need to apply an insecticide soap. Follow the product packaging instructions to make sure you use the insecticide safely and correctly. Protect plants with horticultural fleece during the winter. During extended periods of freezing temperatures, cover your echium garden with horticultural fleece, which you can purchase at a garden center. To provide sunlight and air circulation, remove the cover during the daytime if temperatures rise above freezing. It's not easy to cover taller species. If you live in a colder climate, you could transplant your taller echium to a large container, then store it inside for the winter. Sow seeds annually for continuous blooms. Since echium species typically bloom in their second year and die after flowering, sow seeds or encourage self-seeding annually. That way, you'll have a continuous crop of blooming plants year after year. An echium dies after it flowers. If you want to encourage self-seeding to sow next year's crop, give the central spikes a gentle whack when the flowers are spent. You can always pull or transplant excess seedlings once they sprout. | Go with a giant viper’s bugloss if you have space for a large plant. Choose a mid-sized option if you don’t have room for a tree. Plant a low-growing species if you want ground cover. Make sure your plants will get at least 6 to 8 hours of sun. Use well-draining, loamy or sandy soil. Sow seeds in early spring after the threat of frost has passed. Dig out the soil and, if necessary, amend it. Scatter seeds thinly, or around 2 to 4 in (5.1 to 10.2 cm) apart. Cover the seeds with about 1⁄4 in (6.4 mm) of soil. Water the planting area regularly for 2 to 3 weeks. Dig a hole that’s 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball. Massage the root ball gently before planting it. Plant the root ball and cover it with loose soil. Keep the soil moist for around 3 or 4 weeks. Water only when the soil is dry once the plants are established. Pack the soil as a taller species grows to offer it support. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooms and control reseeding. Check for slugs regularly, and remove any that you find. Protect plants with horticultural fleece during the winter. Sow seeds annually for continuous blooms. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Ball-Jointed-Doll | How to Make a Ball Jointed Doll | To make a ball-jointed doll, you'll first need to make a prototype out of foam or foil. Cover it in paper clay and sculpt its features to make it more realistic. Make the limbs, torso, and head separately, and cut holes for every joint where the balls will go. Remember to carve tracts for the elastic to go inside, which will hold your doll together. Once you've finished your prototype, use it to make a cast out of silicone. After you've pressed your mold, assemble the pieces and balls by threading elastic through them. | Learn as much as you can about ball jointed dolls. Read online articles about bjds (ball jointed dolls). Familiarize yourself with how they are constructed and strung together. If possible, try to handle a bjd in person. Lastly, be familiar with the metric system, especially if you plan to sell your sculpt. Ball jointed dolls are always measured in centimeters. Their eyes are always measured in millimeters. If you plan to sell your sculpt, use these as your primary measurements. Ball jointed doll forums and social media groups are great places learn more about these dolls. Choose the size of doll you want to make. There are 3 main sizes of bjds: yoSD, MSD, and SD. SDs are typically 55 to 57 cm (22 to 22 in) tall. They are sometimes called SD10. SD13 are typically 57 to 60 cm (22 to 24 in) tall. You can also get them larger: 65 to 72 cm (26 to 28 in). MSDs are typically 42 to 44 cm (17 to 17 in) tall. Yo-SDs are typically 26.5 cm (10.4 in) tall. SD stands for "Super Dollfie," MSD stands for "Mini Super Dollfie," and "Yo SD" stands for "Yo Super Dollfie." The larger your doll is, the more expensive it will be to cast. Decide whether you want a child-like or mature-looking doll. Most SD dolls tend to have mature proportions with full breasts or defined muscles. Some of them can have softer, more child-like bodies, such as the dolls made by Volks. MSD dolls tend to have child-like, but you can get mature ones too, like the Fairyland MiniFee. Most yoSD dolls have childlike features, but you can make one that is more mature and slender. Mature yoSDs are usually known as mature tinies. Decide between a realistic or stylistic style. Bjds are closely related to Dollfie Dreams, which look like anime characters. As such, even realistic bjds have slightly longer legs, bigger busts, and narrower waists than the average human. Some sculptors like to make their dolls even more stylized, with long, slender, willowy bodies. A great example are Dollzone and Doll Chateau dolls. Consider making an anthro or animal doll. They tend to be yoSD sized with childlike proportions. Cats and rabbits are the most popular. Draw a full-sized, anatomical sketch of your doll from the front and side. One of the things that makes a bjd different from other dolls is that they are anatomically correct. This means that male dolls have penises and female dolls have vaginal slits. The sketch needs to match the size of the doll you are making in centimeters/inches. The genitals do not have to be realistic or highly-detailed. They can be a simple bulge or slit. Add the joints in the arms, legs, and head. A basic bjd will have joints in the following area: ankles, knees, thighs/hips, wrists, elbows, and arms/shoulders. It will also have 1 or 2 joints in the torso, as well as a joint in the neck/base of head. A torso joint is typically in 1 of the following areas: ribcage/waist, under-bust, or hips (underwear line). Some dolls are double-jointed in the elbows and knees. This means that the joint is a separate piece that fits into the knee and elbow sockets. The thighs fit into sockets in the hips, and have a vertical slit for the elastic so that the doll can sit. Some dolls have a separate joint in the upper thigh. This joint is a clean, horizontal line. Add a sketch for the core, if desired. You don't have to do this, but you can if you want to. The core will simply help you figure out how big to make the hollow parts of the doll. You can draw the core on tracing paper, then tape it over your sketch, or you can dry the core directly onto your sketch. Ensure that your doll will fit other companies' eyes, wigs, and shoes. Bjds come bald and without eyes. While you can make wigs and eyes yourself, these can be time consuming, difficult, and expensive. Most people just buy the eyes, wigs, and shoes from various bjd companies. To make your shopping easier, ensure that your doll fits the standard sizes. BJD eyes are sold in even sized numbers ranging from 6 mm to 24 mm. BJD wigs are sold in inches based on the head circumference. A 7.5 wig will fit a doll with a 7 ⁄ 2 in (19 cm) head. BDS shoes are sold in mm sizes. Your doll's foot needs to be small enough to fit inside the shoe. Build an armature and core out of foam or aluminum foil. Carve foam into shapes for the head, torso, and limbs. Make the head, limbs, and torso separate pieces, but don't add any joints yet. Wrap foam with plastic wrap, and aluminum foil with masking tape. Leave 2 to 5mm between the core and the outline of your anatomical sketch. You can use straws for the arms and legs. Regular drinking straws will work for yoSD and MSD dolls. Large or "boba" drinking straws will work better for SD dolls. Cover your core with clay and add rough hip and shoulder sockets. Use paper clay to build over each of your core pieces (torso, head, arms, and legs). Do not include any details, but do add sockets into the torso for the shoulder and hips. Add 2 round balls to the head to make room for the eye sockets. Make sure that they match the size of the eyes you want your doll to wear. Let the clay dry, then cut it apart and remove the core. Allow the paper clay to dry completely. Once it has dried, use a dremel rotary tool or a craft blade to slice the torso and limb pieces along the sides. Cut the head apart along the crown. Remove the core from inside the paper clay shell. The head will be in 2 separate pieces: a head and head cap. The cut should go around the forehead, above the ears, and the back of the nape. If the eye socket balls remained in the head, be sure to pull those out too. Save the core pieces for casting. Reassemble the torso and limb shells with glue and more clay. Use super glue to reassemble the cut pieces, sans core. Smooth over the seams with more paper clay to make them nice and strong. Do not reassemble the head and head cap. These will remain separate. Add more paper clay onto the doll's body and refine it. Use more paper clay to sculpt over the doll's torso, limbs, and head. This time, pay attention to the details, such as muscles, facial features, and genitals. Reference anatomical draws as much as possible. Sculpt the hands and feet with rounded tops. You can build these from scratch or work over an armature. BJD hands and feet at solid through, so you don't need to cut these apart. Make the tops of the wrists and ankles rounded so that they can fit into the ankle and wrist sockets. Cut the doll apart along the joints, making them angled. Use a dremel or craft blade to slice the doll apart at the torso, knees, and elbow. Next, cut the tops of the lower arms and legs off at a slight angle. Do the same for the bottoms of the upper arms and thighs. This will allow the doll to move their arms and knees more freely. The angles need to slant away from the elbows and knees. Sculpt new joints and sockets. Add balls to the tops of the lower arms and legs, then cover them with plastic wrap. Add some clay to the bottoms of the upper arms and thighs, then squish the balls against them to create sockets. Add some balls to the tops of the upper arms. Make them perpendicular to the arm rather than right on top. This will allow the arms to hang straight down. Make the top of the bottom torso piece taper in a little, then soften the inside edge of the upper torso piece. This allows them to fit together like stacked bowls. Add stringing holes to the balls and sockets. Add a stringing hole to the top of the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee balls. Add a hole to the top of the neck too, if it got covered up. Make sure that the holes are the same size as the channels inside the limbs. Work while the clay is still wet. If the clay dried, use a dremel to make the holes. Cut stringing slits into the balls, including the ankle and wrist balls. The slits need to run from the stringing hole to the bottom edge of the ball where it touches the limb. Make the slits run in the following directions: Upper thighs: center-front of the thigh ball. The slit needs to be long enough so that the doll can sit while strung. Knees: back-center of the knee balls Shoulders: inside the arm, where the ball fits into the socket. Elbow: center-front of the inside arm. Feet: across the entire ball, running parallel to the length of the feet. Hands: across the entire ball, from palm to the top of the hand. Add magnet and stringing holes to the head and head cap. When you pull the head cap (top of the head) away, you'll see a set of magnets: 1 above the forehead and 1 above the nape. You should use a dremel to drill similar holes into your doll's head and head cap so that you can insert magnets. Don't add the magnets yet. You will add them after you cast the doll. A bjd's head will also have a small hole in the bottom where the neck joint is. This hole is the same size as the neck hole. It also has a vertical slit that is wide enough for the elastic and S-hook. Add hook bars to the ankle and wrist balls. You can do this by inserting a piece of wire perpendicular to the slit, or you can add some clay to the top of the slit. This will allow the hook to latch onto the hands and feet. Let the clay dry, then prime and sand the doll. Coat the doll with a few layers of surface primer. Let it dry, then sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. Do this a few times until you get the finish that you like and you can no longer see the clay. Test the stringing and work out any kinks. While not completely necessary, this will save you a lot of grief in the future. String your doll using the last method or an online tutorial. Make sure that the joints fit and move properly. The doll should be able to stand on its own. Use loose stringing for this part. If you make it too tight, you risk breaking the clay. Build the mold box out of Lego bricks, and fill the bottom with clay. You will need 1 mold box for each piece that you cast, but smaller pieces, like yoSD dolls, hands, and feet can fit into a single mold box. Make the walls taller than the piece when it is laying down on its side. Fill the bottom of each mold box with stone or ceramic clay (not paper clay) to prevent leaks. Don't let the clay dry. Set the pieces into the mold boxes. Press the pieces halfway into the clay. Feet should be placed on their sides, and hands should be placed flat so that all fingers are visible. The head and head cap need to sit flat on the clay. BJDs have seams running down the sides of each piece, so set them into the clay accordingly. Place different sized marbles into the corners of the box. This will allow you to align the mold pieces during casting. Fill the mold boxes with silicone and let it set. Buy high-quality casting silicone from a casting shop or an online store. Mix together Parts A and B, then pour them into the mold. Let the silicone set. Use a good-quality silicone from a casting supply store. Do not use cheap silicone from the home improvement store. Remove the silicone, reverse it, and fill the second half. Take everything out of the mold box. Set the silicone mold into the box with the cavity facing up. Place the piece back into the silicone mold. Coat the top of the mold with mold release, then fill the rest of the mold with more silicone. Let the silicone set. Insert the core into the molds. Take everything out of the molds. Insert your straw cores into the molds. When you get to the torso and head molds, insert straws into the cores where the stringing holes are, then set them into the molds. Secure the molds with rubber bands. Cover Styrofoam core pieces with plastic wrap or masking tape, or the resin will sink into them. Cast the doll in urethane resin. Bjds come in all sizes, shapes, and colors, but there is one thing that they all have in common: they are made from urethane resin. Purchase the resin from a casting supply store, then tint it the color you want using resin dye. If you want the doll to be made from "French" resin, purchase a semi-translucent urethane resin. Most dolls are skin-toned, ranging from fair to tan to dark, but some are white. You can also try a fantasy color, such as gray or purple. Let the resin cure, then de-mold the pieces. How long the resin takes to cure depends on the type that you used. This can be a few minutes to a few hours. Once the resin has cured, remove the pieces from the molds, then take out the core pieces. If a piece came out warped, you may have to re-cast it. Ask a casting company to cast your doll for you if you can't do it yourself. Most bjd companies won't cast dolls for other people, but there are lots of other companies that will. Visit some bjd sculpting communities, and research what casting companies are willing to cast bjds. Be aware that casting companies typically have a minimum requirement of 10 dolls. If you are serious about this, consider doing a pre-order. A pre-order is where other people purchase the doll from you. Once the company casts the dolls and ships them to you, you will have to ship the dolls to your customers. Sand the doll's seams and do any extra drilling. Be sure that you wear a respirator mask for fine dust particles when you sand the pieces. You can sand the pieces with a dremel or sandpaper. Start off with a rough grit, and finish with a finer grit. If a stringing hole got filled, you will have to drill it with a dremel. Check the S-hook bars in the ankle and wrist bars to ensure that they haven't been filled in. Add silver neodymium magnets into the doll's head cap. Purchase these magnets online in a size that matches the holes that you made. Glue the magnets into the holes with super glue. Make sure that the polarities are correct. Do not use regular magnets. They are not strong enough. Hook small S-hooks over the bars on the wrist and ankle balls. Buy some small S-hooks from an online bjd shop or a hardware store. Make sure that they are small enough to fit inside the stringing channels, then hook them over the wrists and ankles. Have a large S hook ready for the head. Cut and tie round, white elastic for the arms and legs. Measure the distance from the left wrist to the center of the chest, double it, then cut a piece of elastic according to that measurement. Next, measure the doll from the top of the neck to the bottom of the torso, double it, and cut another piece of elastic. Tie both pieces of elastic into loops. The thickness of the elastic depends on the size of the doll and the stringing channels. The bigger your doll is, the thicker the elastic needs to be. Bjds use round (not flat) elastic that is white in color, which you can find in online bjd stores. String your doll with the elastic. Thread the shorter piece through the arms and latch it onto the S-hooks. Fold the larger loop in half. Latch it onto the large S-hook, then pull it down through the neck and torso. Pull each half through each leg, then latch it onto the S-hooks too. Use a pipe cleaner or a bjd stringing tool to string your doll. You can find bjd stringing tools in online bjd stores. If you are confused about stringing your bjd, look up video tutorials online or ask a fellow hobbyist to assist you. Give your doll a faceup, eyes, wig, and clothing. You can give the doll a faceup using an online tutorial, or you can commission a fellow hobbyist to do it for you. Purchase clothing, shoes, eyes, and a wig for your doll from a bjd supply. The wig should fit comfortably over your doll's head, but you will need to insert the eyes using poster tack or silicone ear putty. A faceup refers to the blushing, lip color, lashes, and eyebrows applied to a doll's face. Do not use polymer clay to set the eyes, or you will stain the resin. Be careful what supplies you use for your doll's faceup. Specific brands are recommended for a reason; other brands may melt the resin. If you know how to sew, you can make your doll's clothes yourself. Some people sell bjd patterns, but they may not fit your doll. | Learn as much as you can about ball jointed dolls. Choose the size of doll you want to make. Decide whether you want a child-like or mature-looking doll. Decide between a realistic or stylistic style. Draw a full-sized, anatomical sketch of your doll from the front and side. Add the joints in the arms, legs, and head. Add a sketch for the core, if desired. Ensure that your doll will fit other companies' eyes, wigs, and shoes. Build an armature and core out of foam or aluminum foil. Cover your core with clay and add rough hip and shoulder sockets. Let the clay dry, then cut it apart and remove the core. Reassemble the torso and limb shells with glue and more clay. Add more paper clay onto the doll's body and refine it. Sculpt the hands and feet with rounded tops. Cut the doll apart along the joints, making them angled. Sculpt new joints and sockets. Add stringing holes to the balls and sockets. Cut stringing slits into the balls, including the ankle and wrist balls. Add magnet and stringing holes to the head and head cap. Add hook bars to the ankle and wrist balls. Let the clay dry, then prime and sand the doll. Test the stringing and work out any kinks. Build the mold box out of Lego bricks, and fill the bottom with clay. Set the pieces into the mold boxes. Fill the mold boxes with silicone and let it set. Remove the silicone, reverse it, and fill the second half. Insert the core into the molds. Cast the doll in urethane resin. Let the resin cure, then de-mold the pieces. Ask a casting company to cast your doll for you if you can't do it yourself. Sand the doll's seams and do any extra drilling. Add silver neodymium magnets into the doll's head cap. Hook small S-hooks over the bars on the wrist and ankle balls. Cut and tie round, white elastic for the arms and legs. String your doll with the elastic. Give your doll a faceup, eyes, wig, and clothing. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Say-Hello-to-Your-Crush-(for-Girls) | How to Say Hello to Your Crush (for Girls) | Saying hello to your crush can seem scary and intimidating, but if you can find the right moment and gather up the courage to do it, you'll be surprised at how easy it can be. Look for the right moment when they're free to talk so they're not distracted, like in between classes or during lunch. You should probably wait until they're alone so you don't feel the pressure of having other people watch. Then, work up the courage to talk to them by giving yourself a quick pep talk. Remind yourself that they're a normal person just like you are, and it's no big deal to go up to them and say hello. When the moment seems right, take a deep breath, walk over to them, and try saying some direct like, “Hey, how are you?” If they seem interested in talking to you, you can keep the conversation going from there. | Gather the courage to talk to your crush by giving yourself a pep talk. The thought of going up to your crush to say hello might be making you nervous. To help yourself find the courage to go up to them, remind yourself that your crush is a person just like you are, and talking to them shouldn't be any different than talking to anyone else. Put on a smile, take a deep breath, and focus on showing confidence. Count to three if you notice yourself hesitating to talk to your crush. Once you get to three, go right up to them! Give a quick hello when you pass them in the hallways. If you see your crush while you're walking somewhere and don't have time for a real conversation, say hello and then their name so they know you're talking to them. Smile as you say hello and try to make eye contact, showing that you're friendly and would like to talk some other time. For example, if you see your crush as you're walking to your seat, say, “Hey, Adam!” with a smile and keep walking. Speak loudly and clear enough so that your crush hears you. Not only does making eye contact make you look more confident, but it also helps spark a connection between the two of you. Go up to your crush when they're free to talk to avoid interrupting them. Going up to your crush to say hello can be nerve-racking, but if you see a moment when they're waiting outside of class or chatting with 1 or 2 people, go up to them! There's no need to overthink the timing, and being proactive about it will make you feel more confident and in control. Avoid going up to them if they're talking on the phone. Wait until they’re alone to talk to them in more depth. If you don't mind talking to them when they're with their friends, great! Otherwise, wait for them to be alone, like when they're at their locker or waiting for a class to start. This puts less pressure on you and makes the conversation flow more naturally. If you just want to say a quick, “Hi, how are you?” instead of a longer conversation, it's okay to talk to them when they're around others. You might say something like, "Hi Jack, I wanted to ask you how your soccer game went last weekend! Did you guys win?" Ask them for their social media handle or phone number. If the conversation goes well or you just want to continue talking to them, ask for their phone number if you don't already have it. You could also add them on social media like Instagram or Snapchat to talk to them there too. After talking about interesting books, you might say, “What's your phone number? I'll text you the names of a few other books I think you might like.” Add something on to your text besides just “Hello” to start a conversation. If you're texting your crush, avoid sending a text that just says “hey.” This doesn't tell your crush anything specific about why you're talking to them and is hard to respond to. Even adding on a simple, “how are you?” after your hello is a better conversation starter. You could say, "Hey! Did you write down the homework for English today? I forgot to!" or "Hi Tyler, your science project looked awesome!" Ask your crush a question about their day to keep talking to them. Say your hello and then ask them something like, “How was the concert practice?” or “How did your English quiz go?” These questions begin a natural conversation and help you get to know your crush as you're texting them. Asking questions is a good way to show your crush that you're interested in what they have to say. You might ask, “Are you feeling better?” if your crush has been sick, or “What did you think of the field trip today?” if you went on a class trip. Text them a funny meme as your hello to make them smile. Find a meme that says hello for you, showing a picture of an animal or TV character. Find a meme that just says hello, pick one that demonstrates how you're feeling, or choose one that talks about something that might have happened during the day. This is a cute way to say hi to your crush and start a conversation without having to put in too much effort. For example, pick out a meme of Joey from "Friends" with the caption, “how you doin?” or a simple meme of a cute sea animal saying hi. Funny memes are also a great way to show your creative side. Reach out to your crush on social media if you know their handle. Find your crush's profile on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or another form of social media to follow them. Send them a message or tag them in a post you think they might like to start up a conversation. For example, you might tag them in the comment section of a funny video so they'll get to watch it, saying, "This totally reminded me of you!" or something similar. Talking to your crush through social media while also texting them is okay. Avoid talking to them too late at night or too early in the morning. While it's totally okay to text your crush outside of school hours, make sure you think about what time it is before talking to them. You don't want to wake your crush up with your text by sending it too early or too late. Pick a time where they're likely to be free and have time to talk, such as in the afternoon after school or the early evening. Give your crush a compliment to let them know what you like about them. Say hello and then compliment your crush, saying something like, “You did a great job in the basketball game last night!” or “Your Spanish presentation was great!” Simple compliments will help start a conversation while hinting that you like them. For a more direct compliment, you might say, “That shirt looks great on you!” Other compliments might be, "You have a great singing voice!" or "I really like the stickers on your laptop!" Bring up something you have in common for an easy conversation starter. This could be a class you both take or a sport you're both interested in. If you already know of something you have in common with your crush, this is a great way to start a conversation after you say hello. Ask about a friend you both have in common or a show you both watch. You might say, “We have that history test coming up, how are you going to study for it?” or "Are you going to Sam's birthday party this weekend?" Talk about an event coming up to spark conversation. Maybe there's a pep rally coming up or a play that's going to take place. Bring up an activity that you might both be interested in that's happening soon. This is a great way to continue talking, and you might even end up making plans to see each other at the event. For example, say, “Did you hear about the fundraiser happening this weekend? It sounds like fun!” or “I'm playing in the basketball game tomorrow, you should come!” Ask them questions about their family or hobbies to get to know them better. After saying hello, start asking them open-ended questions to keep the conversation going. You might ask about their siblings, what they do on the weekends, or who their favorite musicians are. By asking questions, you'll show that you're interested in their life while also getting to know them more. Ask something like, “What did you do over the weekend?” or “I'm out of Netflix shows, what're you currently watching?” Avoid questions that lead to yes or no answers to keep the conversation going. Comment on things around you if there's an awkward silence. If you find yourself in an awkward silence after saying hello, look around for something to comment on, such as your crush's backpack, clothing, or an activity happening around you and say something nice. This will help you start up a conversation quickly without the silence lasting too long. For example, you might say, "The buttons on your backpack are cool, where did you get each of them?" or "It looks like they're playing frisbee outside! Have you ever played?" Avoid trying too hard to keep talking if they text you one-word replies. If you text your crush and they respond with just one word like "Cool" or "K," this either means that they're super busy and just don't have time to talk right now, or they're not super interested in talking. Instead of trying to keep asking them questions to continue the conversation, send a simple emoji as a response or wait a little while to see if they want to talk then. If they respond with "Good" and don't say anything else, you might send an emoji of a smiley face. If they respond to the emoji, great! If they don't, try texting them the next day. | Gather the courage to talk to your crush by giving yourself a pep talk. Give a quick hello when you pass them in the hallways. Go up to your crush when they're free to talk to avoid interrupting them. Wait until they’re alone to talk to them in more depth. Ask them for their social media handle or phone number. Add something on to your text besides just “Hello” to start a conversation. Ask your crush a question about their day to keep talking to them. Text them a funny meme as your hello to make them smile. Reach out to your crush on social media if you know their handle. Avoid talking to them too late at night or too early in the morning. Give your crush a compliment to let them know what you like about them. Bring up something you have in common for an easy conversation starter. Talk about an event coming up to spark conversation. Ask them questions about their family or hobbies to get to know them better. Comment on things around you if there's an awkward silence. Avoid trying too hard to keep talking if they text you one-word replies. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Your-Dog%27s-Teeth | How to Clean Your Dog's Teeth | To clean your dog's teeth, be sure to use a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste, as human toothpaste is highly toxic to dogs. Get your dog accustomed to having its mouth touched by massaging its lips with your finger for 30 to 60 seconds each day for a week, and then move on to touching its teeth and gums once per day for another week. Once your dog is comfortable having its teeth touched, put some toothpaste on the toothbrush and place it on the upper teeth at a 45-degree angle. Massage the teeth with the toothbrush in small, circular motions, and use your other hand to lift your dog's lip as necessary. Once you've brushed the top teeth, hold your dog's bottom lip and brush the outsides of its bottom teeth in the same circular motion. You should brush your dog's teeth at least 3 times per week, or daily if you can. | Buy a dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Do not use human toothpaste or toothbrushes to clean your dog's teeth. Human toothpaste contains high amounts of fluoride, which is poisonous to dogs. Visit your local pet supply or pet grooming store to purchase dog toothpaste and a toothbrush. You can also make your own doggie toothpaste by mixing baking soda with water. Mix a tablespoon of hot water with two tablespoons of baking soda. To add freshness to the paste, add a pinch of cinnamon to the mix. Choose a calm time. Bring your dog to the bathroom, or an area away from noise and commotion, and close the door. Also, choose a space that has good lighting so you can inspect your dog's teeth thoroughly. Bring some doggie treats with you so you can reward your dog for good behavior throughout the process. Massage your dog’s lips. Get your dog accustomed to having its teeth brushed by massaging your dog's lips with your finger, first. Massage your dog's lips in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once per day for a week. This step is especially important if your dog has an adverse reaction to its mouth being touched. If your dog has an adverse reaction, stop what you are doing. Try again after a minute. Reward your dog with a treat for good behavior. Begin to touch the teeth and gums without the brush. The following week, move on to touching your dog's teeth and gums with your finger. Wrap your finger in gauze. Lift and hold your dog's upper lip. Gently rub your finger in a circular motion over your dog's upper teeth. Do this for 30 seconds. Hold down your dog's lower lip and apply the same circular motion to its bottom teeth for 30 seconds. Practice doing this once a day for a week. Remember to give your dog a treat for good behavior afterwards. Place toothpaste on your finger. Introduce the toothpaste to your dog by placing some on your finger. Let your dog smell and lick the toothpaste from your finger. By doing this, your dog will get used to the taste and texture of the toothpaste. You can do this either before or after you massage your dog's teeth with your finger. Touch the toothbrush to the teeth. Introduce the toothbrush by touching the front, side, and back teeth with the brush. Touch both top and bottom teeth with the brush. Do this for 30 seconds on both top and bottom teeth once per day for a week. Make sure to reward your dog for good behavior afterwards. Let your dog lick toothpaste from your finger. Once your dog is familiar with the whole process, you can begin to brush its teeth. Before you start, place a dab of toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it off. Then, place more toothpaste on the toothbrush. Hold the upper lip. At a 45-degree angle, place the toothbrush on its upper teeth while holding its lip. Massage the teeth with the toothbrush in small, circular motions, just like you practiced. The sides of the teeth that touch the lip will have the most plaque and tartar build-up. Focus on these areas. Only work on small areas at a time, lifting your dog's lip as necessary. When removing tartar and plaque, use downward strokes for the top teeth. Hold down your dog's bottom lip and massage the outsides of the bottom teeth in the same circular motion. Use upward strokes to remove tartar from the bottom teeth. Brush the inside of the teeth. Once you have cleaned the outsides of the teeth, attempt to brush the insides of the teeth. Your dog might resist. If it does, don't fight your dog, but cease from brushing. Only small amounts of tartar accumulate on the insides of the teeth. Therefore, it is not as important as the sides of the teeth. Don't forget to reward your dog for good behavior afterwards. Brush at least three times a week. It is recommended that you brush your dog's teeth daily, but at least three times a week. Since smaller dogs are more likely to develop dental issues, it is recommended that you brush their teeth every day or at least five times a week. Healthy gums are pink, not cherry red or white, and show no signs of swelling or bleeding. Purchase chew toys. Nylon, rubber, or toxin-free rawhide chew toys are also a great way to keep your dog's teeth and gums strong and healthy. Chewing on a toy can help massage the gums and scrape away soft tartar. Reward your dog with treats that are specially formulated to keep your dog's teeth healthy. Chew toys and soft chews should not replace regular brushing. Consult your vet. Have your vet examine your dog's teeth to rule out any existing infections or diseases. Ask your vet about the dental care your specific dog's breed needs. Some dogs, especially smaller dogs, are more prone to dental diseases and infections, like gingivitis and gum disease. Your vet can recommend a teeth-cleaning regimen that caters to your dog's needs. Take your dog to the vet immediately if it is suffering from any of these symptoms: inflamed or swollen gums, loose or decayed teeth, tooth pain, i.e., pawing at the mouth, lumps in the gums, i.e., mouth tumors, or fluid filled blisters under the tongue or near the corners of the jaw, i.e, salivary cysts. | Buy a dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Choose a calm time. Massage your dog’s lips. Begin to touch the teeth and gums without the brush. Place toothpaste on your finger. Touch the toothbrush to the teeth. Let your dog lick toothpaste from your finger. Hold the upper lip. Brush the inside of the teeth. Brush at least three times a week. Purchase chew toys. Consult your vet. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Break-in-Birkenstocks | How to Break in Birkenstocks | To break in Birkenstocks, slowly increase the amount of time you wear them each day while making adjustments to the sandals to better fit your feet. When you first start wearing your Birkenstocks, walk in them for 30 to 45 minutes on the first day to avoid straining your feet before the cork material of the footbed has shaped to them. Over the next few weeks, wear your new shoes for 1 to 2 hours daily to let the footbed loosen up and shape to your foot. As you wear them, you should begin to notice an outline of your feet as they break in. If your shoes feel too tight or loose, add extra holes to the strap to adjust them to your feet. Additionally, if you notice any uncomfortable parts, sand them down with fine grit paper. | Walk in them for only 30-45 minutes on the first day. Going longer can put more strain on your feet before the cork material of the Birkenstock's footbed has shaped to them. If they start hurting before 30 minutes is up, take them off anyway. Wearing socks may help ease the stiffness of walking in them the first couple times, and then start to transition to going barefoot. Wear your Birkenstocks for 1-2 hours daily for the next few weeks. Walking in them each day will allow the footbed to loosen up and better shape to your individual foot. If you can, try to increase the length of time you walk in them each day to speed up the process. Follow this method to make sure your Birkenstocks are well and truly comfy to use prior to taking long walks in them. This is especially important if you're planning a vacation involving lots of walking. Look for your foot’s impression in the footbed to see if they’re breaking in. As you wear them, you should begin to notice an outline of each of your feet in the Birkenstocks growing darker. This is showing how they're becoming better formed to the shape of your feet each time you wear them. Committing to consistently walking in them at first is the only surefire method for making them more comfortable to wear. Flex the shoe gently to soften up the footbed when first getting them. Birkenstocks may initially feel very stiff when first taking them out the box. Use your hands to bend the shoe back and forth in both directions, then grab the front and back to twist them in opposite directions at the same time. You can also roll it against the floor or bend it against a heavy piece of furniture for the same effect. Hammer down uncomfortable parts of the footbed to soften them up. The toe bar is often where people complain their Birkenstocks are too stiff or uncomfortable. Take a small mallet and carefully but firmly tamp down on the footbed to loosen up the cork where it's bothering you. Give it several hits, pressing the footbed with your fingers to test how soft you're making it, and keep going until you feel it'll be easier for it to form to the shape of your foot. Try not to hammer too much, or you might weaken the supporting nature of the footbed. Add extra holes to the straps to make it looser or tighter on your foot. If you're finding that the sandal isn't able to be fit to the shape of your foot, adding an extra hole to the strap may help in securing your foot better, and adding a degree of comfort when you walk. You can heat up a pin or screw to pierce through the leather to make a new hole in the strap. Then work the buckle's prong through the hole to widen it and make it easier to use. Sand down any uncomfortable parts of the Birkenstocks’ straps. If there's a section of the strap that's uncomfortable when it rubs against the top of your foot or chafes it when you walk, sandpaper can help. Using a fine grit paper, rub down any problem areas on the underside of the strap to make the contact points more comfortable. Be careful not to sand them too much, or you may end up making them more uncomfortable or damaging the shoe. Place your foot in the completely unbuckled sandal. Line up the arches and contours of your own foot with the ones built into the Birkenstocks, and let the toe bar rest underneath all your toes (where they connect with your foot). Rest your heel so it fits comfortably into the cup at the back. Neither your heel or toes should be extending beyond the length of the footbed. Grab a larger size in this case. Align your heel and toes to the edge of the sandal. Make sure you have enough clearance around the perimeter of your foot, about a ⁄ 4 inch (0.64 cm) of space for your heels and toes, and an a ⁄ 8 inch (0.32 cm) for the sides of your feet. You'll want to leave yourself a little bit of room for your foot to move around in the Birkenstocks while you're walking around. Tighten the straps so you can fit one finger underneath. With your foot properly aligned with the footbed, begin strapping up the sandals. When you go to tighten the buckle, adjust it so your foot is secured snuggly, but not too tight. You can test this by seeing if you can still wiggle a finger under the strap at your ankle. Support from the sandal will come from your foot resting properly on the footbed, not from how tight the straps are. Readjust the straps while walking if you still feel discomfort. Although you may have adjusted properly while at home, while out walking the natural movement of your foot may have it rubbing against the sandal uncomfortably. If something is bothering you, a strap on the sandal, such as the ones going over the top of your foot or your toes, may not be properly tight or loose enough. Make any of these changes while you're walking so they'll be ready for the next time. You may need to fasten the straps differently between your feet depending on their shape or size. | Walk in them for only 30-45 minutes on the first day. Wear your Birkenstocks for 1-2 hours daily for the next few weeks. Look for your foot’s impression in the footbed to see if they’re breaking in. Flex the shoe gently to soften up the footbed when first getting them. Hammer down uncomfortable parts of the footbed to soften them up. Add extra holes to the straps to make it looser or tighter on your foot. Sand down any uncomfortable parts of the Birkenstocks’ straps. Place your foot in the completely unbuckled sandal. Align your heel and toes to the edge of the sandal. Tighten the straps so you can fit one finger underneath. Readjust the straps while walking if you still feel discomfort. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-Painful-Shoes | How to Fix Painful Shoes | If you need to fix painful shoes, cut a piece of moleskin to size and apply it to the spot where the shoes are rubbing against your skin. Laying an insole in the bottom of your shoe can also help make your shoe more comfortable. If your shoes are slipping off your feet when you walk, apply an antiperspirant or anti-friction stick to your feet so your shoes won't cause blisters. | Prevent blisters, chafing, and cutting by sticking pieces of moleskin inside your shoe. Purchase some moleskin from a shoe store (or the shoe repair section of a drug store) and take out one sheet. Place the sheet behind the offending strap or heel and trace it with a pencil. Cut the shape out using a pair of scissors and peel off the backing. Stick the moleskin onto the strap or heel. This will also work on other areas that cause chafing. If the area is inside your shoe, cut out a small circle or oval that is slightly larger than the area getting chafed. Peel off the backing and stick the moleskin to the offending area. You can also stick the moleskin directly onto your foot, and peel it off at the end of the day. Prevent friction and blisters by applying an anti-friction stick to your feet. You can purchase one at a drugstore. Apply the balm directly onto your skin, where the chafing and blistering is likely to occur. You probably do not want to apply this to existing blisters. Instead, consider buying some blister treatments instead. They look like oval band-aids and go over the blister. They help cushion the blister and keep it clean so that it does not get infected. Consider using an antiperspirant stick to reduce sweating. The sweat and moisture created by chafing can cause or worsen blisters. An antiperspirant reduces the moisture, which may reduce blistering. Keep your foot in place and prevent chafing and bruising with an insole. When your foot slips around from side to side, blisters can form along the front and back of your foot, where the material rubs against your skin. If you find your foot moving around inside a wedge heel or similar style, place a gel or padded insole inside the shoe to reduce movement. Ease pain in the ball of your foot with some ball-of-foot cushions. If the ball of your foot is aching at the end of the day, your shoe may be too hard; this is especially common in high heels. Purchase a set of ball-of-foot cushions and stick them in the front of your shoes, right where the ball of your foot sits. They are usually shaped like ovals or eggs. If you have a pair of heeled sandals that have a strap between the toes, consider getting a heart-shaped cushion. The rounded parts of the heart will fit to either side of the toe strap. Use some silicone gel dots or adhesive foam tape to ease excessive pressure in smaller areas. Both can be purchased in a shoe store or a drug store. The silicone gel dots are clear and easily disguised, but the foam tape can be cut to just the right shape and size. Use silicone heel cups or arch-supporting insoles to sooth aching heels. If your heels ache, it may be because the back/heel area of your shoe is too hard. It could also be because your shoes do not give your feet enough arch support. Try putting in a silicone heel cup or an arch support insole. Both can be trimmed down to the right size, and have adhesive on the back so that they don't slip around. Arch supporting insoles are usually labeled as such; if you are having troubles finding some, look for something that is thicker in the middle of the insole—right where the arch of your foot would go. Placing an insole in a tight shoe may make your feet feel overcrowded and uncomfortable. If this happens, try a thinner insole Prevent scrunched toes in high heels by asking a shoe cobbler to trim the heel down for you. Sometimes, the angle between the heel and the ball-of-foot is too great, causing your feet to slide forward and squish your toes against the front of the shoe. Reducing the heel height might fix this. Do not attempt to do this on your own; seek out a shoe cobbler to do it for you. Most high heels can be trimmed down up to 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) by a shoe cobbler. Know how the wrong size can hurt and how to fix it. Shoes that are too large can hurt just as much as shoes that are too small. Large shoes won't offer you enough support and cause your foot to move around too much, leading to chafing and scrunched toes. Shoes that are too small will leave your feet feeling cramped and aching at the end of the day. Fortunately, it is possible to stretch shoes out a little bit; it is also possible to fill shoes in to make them smaller. Keep in mind that some materials are easier to stretch than others. Try putting in an insole if your shoe is too large. They will provide extra cushioning inside your shoe and prevent your foot from wriggling around too much. Use a heel grip if your shoe is too big and your foot slides forward too much. A heel grip is an oval-shaped cushion with adhesive on one side. It can be made from gel or foam covered with moleskin. Simply peel the backing off the heel grip, and stick it to the inside of your shoe, right where the heel is. It will add extra cushioning to the back of the shoe, which will prevent your heel from getting chafed and keep your foot in place. Fill out large toe boxes with some lambs' wool. If your new loafers or work shoes are too large and your toes keep sliding forward and getting scrunched, try filling out the toe area with some lambswool. This breathable, airy material will be more comfortable and less-likely to wad up, like tissue. You can also try using some cotton balls. Stretch out your shoes with a shoe tree. A shoe tree can either maintain the shape of your shoe or stretch it out, depending on the length or width of the tree. Insert the shoe tree into your shoe in between wearings. This technique works best for leather and suede, but will not work on rubber or plastic. Stretch out your shoes using a shoe stretcher. Spray your shoe with some shoe stretching spray, then tuck the stretcher into you shoe. All shoe stretchers are going to be a little bit different, but most will have a handle and a knob. The knob will adjust the length and the handle will adjust the width. Keep turning the handle and knob until the shoe material is snug, then leave the stretcher in the shoe for six to eight hours. Once the time is up, turn the handle and knob the other way (to make the shoe stretcher smaller) and pull the stretcher out of your shoe. This is a great option for too-small loafers and work shoes. There are different types of shoe stretchers available, including ones for high heels. A two-way stretcher might be the most useful, as it can stretch both the width and the length of your shoe. Some shoe stretches have attachments for ailments like bunions. Insert these attachments before using the shoe stretcher. Shoe stretchers can only break in shoes and loosen them so that they do not feel so snug or tight; they cannot make your shoe whole size bigger. Shoe stretchers work best on natural materials, such as leather and suede. They may work on certain types of fabric, but will not be very effective on synthetics and plastics. Ask a cobbler to stretch out your shoe for you. Doing so will give your toes more room to move, which may reduce squeezing and soreness throughout the foot. Stretching only works with shoes made of leather and suede, however. If you have an expensive pair of dress shoes that you don't want to ruin by stretching yourself, this is a good alternative. Use ice to stretch out shoes that are too snug in the toe area. You can do this by filling two Ziploc bags partway with water and sealing them tightly so that there is no air left inside the bags and the water doesn't slosh out. Plop each bag into the toe of each shoe and stick both shoes into the freezer. Leave the shoes there until the ice freezes, then take them out. Pull the bags out of the shoe, then slip the shoes on. The shoes will conform to your foot shape as they warm back up. This helps stretch shoes out to some extent because water expands as it freezes. This will only work on natural materials, such as leather, suede, and fabric. It may not have much effect on plastics and pleather. Keep in mind that if your leather or suede shoes become damp, you may see some staining. Consider wrapping your shoe with a towel to protect it. Buy some specialized socks. Sometimes, wearing the right type of sock with your shoe is all that you need to fix painful shoes. These types of socks offer support to your feet, wick away moisture, and help prevent chafing and blisters. Here are some types of specialized socks that you might be able to find, and what they can do for you: Athletic socks are tighter in the arch area. This helps offer arch support, and makes them ideal for athletic and running shoes. Moisture wicking socks will help remove sweat from around your feet. This will help keep your feet dry and prevent blisters. Running socks have extra padding on the underside, This will help absorb the impact your foot makes when you run. Toe socks are like gloves, but for your feet instead. They cover each toe separately, and may help prevent blisters between toes. Consider the material. Some materials, such as cotton, soak up sweat too easily, which can lead to blisters. Acrylic, polyester, and polypropylene help remove sweat, leaving your feet dry. Prevent painful flip-flops by cushioning the thong part. Flip-flops can be comfortable and easy to wear. When the thong starts to dig in between your toes, however, they can become painful. Here are some tricks you can try to make flip-flops less painful: Use silicon flip-flop inserts. They are shaped like ball-of-foot cushions, except that they have a little cylinder that sticks up near the front. Place the insert in the front of your flip-flop, then slip the thong part into the cylinder. The cylinder will help prevent the thong from digging in between your toes. Wrap the thong area with some adhesive moleskin. The will be especially effective on plastic or rubber flip-flops. It will help cushion your foot and soften any sharp edges. Wrap some fabric around the thong. You can even continue wrapping the fabric around the straps for a colorful, personal touch. Secure both ends of the fabric to the shoe with a drop of shoe glue. Know how to treat painfully-smelly shoes. You can use micro-suede insoles to absorb odor-causing sweat, or you can stick some tea bags into the shoes while you are not wearing them. The tea bags will absorb the odor. Discard the tea bags the next day. Consider taping your third and fourth toe together using skin-colored medical tape. This helps lessen pain in the ball of your foot. The reason this works is because there is a nerve between those two toes. That nerve splits when you wear heels and put pressure on it. Taping those toes together pulls some of the strain away. Break in stiff shoes by wearing them for short periods. If your new shoes are painful because they are stiff, you can help soften them up by wearing them around your home. Be sure to take breaks often and take the shoes off when they become too painful. Over time, the shoes may loosen up and become more comfortable to wear. Use a hairdryer to stretch and break in stiff shoes. Turn a hairdryer on to the lowest setting and point the nozzle into the shoe. Warm the shoe up from the inside for a few minutes, then turn the hairdryer off. Put on two pairs of socks and slip the shoe on. As the shoe cools back down, it will conform to the shape of your foot. This method is best used for shoes made from natural materials; it is not recommended for plastics and other synthetic materials as it may damage them. | Prevent blisters, chafing, and cutting by sticking pieces of moleskin inside your shoe. Prevent friction and blisters by applying an anti-friction stick to your feet. Consider using an antiperspirant stick to reduce sweating. Keep your foot in place and prevent chafing and bruising with an insole. Ease pain in the ball of your foot with some ball-of-foot cushions. Use some silicone gel dots or adhesive foam tape to ease excessive pressure in smaller areas. Use silicone heel cups or arch-supporting insoles to sooth aching heels. Prevent scrunched toes in high heels by asking a shoe cobbler to trim the heel down for you. Know how the wrong size can hurt and how to fix it. Try putting in an insole if your shoe is too large. Use a heel grip if your shoe is too big and your foot slides forward too much. Fill out large toe boxes with some lambs' wool. Stretch out your shoes with a shoe tree. Stretch out your shoes using a shoe stretcher. Ask a cobbler to stretch out your shoe for you. Use ice to stretch out shoes that are too snug in the toe area. Buy some specialized socks. Prevent painful flip-flops by cushioning the thong part. Know how to treat painfully-smelly shoes. Consider taping your third and fourth toe together using skin-colored medical tape. Break in stiff shoes by wearing them for short periods. Use a hairdryer to stretch and break in stiff shoes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-the-Right-Garden-Hose | How to Choose the Right Garden Hose | Choosing the right garden hose will depend on what you need it for and how much you want to spend. Vinyl hoses are great if you live in a mild climate and want something that's lightweight and easy to handle. If you live in a harsher climate and want a more durable hose, a rubber hose or reinforced hose may be a better option. Just keep in mind that these usually cost more. Sprinkler or soaker hoses are great for lawn watering since they have evenly spaced holes where water shoots out. If you let your kids play in the sprinkler or if you have a pet that will drink from the hose, consider getting a hose with antimicrobial protection, which will prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria. | Choose a vinyl hose for easy handling. If you live in a mild climate and plan to use the hose to water your lawn or garden, vinyl is a suitable option. Vinyl hoses are light and easy to handle. They often cost less than rubber or reinforced hoses and are a good choice for basic watering needs. Pick a rubber hose for more durability. Rubber hoses are heavier and harder to handle than vinyl hoses, and they also cost more money. However, they are better suited for extreme weather conditions and will last longer than a basic vinyl hose. Opt for a reinforced hose for commercial purposes. If you plan to use the hose commercially, or if your yard has a lot of equipment, furniture, or sharp objects, choose a reinforced hose. One that is made up of several layers with a mesh covering on the outside can help protect against snags and punctures. Look for an industrial hose if you’ll be using hot water. Industrial hoses are constructed of rubber and include an abrasion-resistant covering. They offer a high burst strength and can be used with extremely hot water. Choose a sprinkler or soaker hose for regular lawn watering. These hoses will “leak” through evenly spaced holes to provide water to the surrounding garden or lawn. Sprinkler hoses lay on the ground with the perforated side facing up and shoot water into the air. Soaker hoses lay on the ground with the perforated side facing sideways or down and allow water to trickle into the soil. Pick an expandable hose for light watering needs. Expandable (or pocket) hoses stretch out when water is run through them, then shrink to a small size when not in use. They are great for light watering and fit well in small spaces. Be aware, however, that they need to be fully drained after every use. They may also be more susceptible to punctures and tears. Select a hose with antimicrobial protection. Many garden hoses provide the right environment for mold, yeast, bacteria, and fungus to grow. If you plan to fill a swimming pool, let your kids run through the sprinkler, or drink from the hose, it's important to select a hose with antimicrobial protection. Choose the length based on the size of your property. Garden hoses range from 10 feet (3.0 m) to over 100 feet (30 m) in length. If you have a small lot and simply need to water your grass or flowers, a short hose, such as one that's 25 feet (7.6 m), should work well. If you have several acres of property, you'll need to opt for a longer hose, like 100 feet (30 m). You can also connect two garden hoses together to reach a farther distance. Let your pressure needs determine the diameter. A hose with a ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) diameter will deliver about 9 gallons (34 L) of water per minute. This is sufficient for basic lawn and garden watering. A hose with a ⁄ 8 inch (1.6 cm) diameter will deliver about 17 gallons (64 L) of water per minute. A hose diameter of ⁄ 4 inch (1.9 cm) will deliver about 23 gallons (87 L) of water per minute. The wider the diameter, the less pressure is lost over distance. Look for cast brass fittings. Solid, crush-proof fittings are a must for your garden hose. Choose cast brass, rather than stamped brass, to ensure that you won't need to replace the hose due to damaged fittings. Cast brass fittings also indicate that the hose is high quality. Pick a brass nozzle to reduce leaks. Attaching a nozzle to the end of the hose changes the way that water is delivered. The nozzle can be twisted to produce a fine spray or a strong stream of water. For the most flexibility in your watering, choose an adjustable nozzle. A brass nozzle will fit better and last longer than a plastic one. Bend the hose to see if it kinks before purchasing it. While you're in the store, unroll about 2 feet (0.61 m) of hose and bend it in half. Though many hoses are advertised as kink-free, most of them are not. Test several hoses to find one that simply bends, rather than kinks. Store your hose on a reel to reduce damage. Coil your hose on a reel to prevent bends or kinks from forming. Reels can stand alone on a cart so that you can tote it around your property, or they can be mounted to the wall. Reels are available at the same places you will find garden hoses. Drain the hose before the first frost. If you live in an area where temperatures dip below freezing, it's important to drain all the water from your hose before the cold weather hits. Allow gravity to empty the hose by placing one end on an elevated surface, like a picnic table, and the other end on the ground. Bring your hose indoors during the winter. Cold temperatures can cause the hose material to shrink, which may produce cracks. To prevent this from happening, store your hose indoors during the winter rather than leaving it outside. A garage or basement is a good place to keep the hose until warm weather returns. | Choose a vinyl hose for easy handling. Pick a rubber hose for more durability. Opt for a reinforced hose for commercial purposes. Look for an industrial hose if you’ll be using hot water. Choose a sprinkler or soaker hose for regular lawn watering. Pick an expandable hose for light watering needs. Select a hose with antimicrobial protection. Choose the length based on the size of your property. Let your pressure needs determine the diameter. Look for cast brass fittings. Pick a brass nozzle to reduce leaks. Bend the hose to see if it kinks before purchasing it. Store your hose on a reel to reduce damage. Drain the hose before the first frost. Bring your hose indoors during the winter. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Paint-Cabinets | How to Paint Cabinets | To paint cabinets, start by stripping any old paint off of them using a chemical paint stripper. Then, sand the cabinets with a fine- or medium-grit sandpaper so the primer and paint stick to them better. Next, apply a thin layer of bonding primer to the cabinets, and let it dry completely. Finally, paint the cabinets with water-based latex paint using a brush and roller, and let them dry for 24 hours. | Remove your cabinet doors and label them. Use a screwdriver to take the doors and drawers off of the cabinet frames. Rip off a piece of painter's tape and label it with a letter or number. Put another piece of tape with the same label on the frame where you took the door off. Label each door differently so you know where each of them goes. Put your cabinets in an open space, like a garage or basement to keep them out of the way. Make sure to empty out your cabinets and store the contents in another room while you're working. Keep all the hardware and hinges from your cabinets in resealable plastic bags for each cabinet. That way, they won't get lost or mixed up. Strip old paint off the cabinets if they were previously painted. Work in a well-ventilated area with a piece of cardboard underneath you. Starting at the top of the cabinet or frame, paint a layer of paint stripper on the surface. Let the stripper sit for at least 45 minutes. Use a plastic paint scraper to gently remove the paint in long strokes. Scrape all of your cabinets until the surface is flat and even. Wear thick work gloves while working with paint stripper so your skin doesn't get irritated. You may need to use paint stripper multiple times if your cabinets have multiple coats. Clean the cabinets with a degreaser. Spray a chemical degreaser on a cleaning rag or shop cloth until it's damp. Rub your cabinets with the cloth along the grain to remove any stuck-on oil. Clean all sides of your door and frame so the primer can stick to your cabinets. If you're painting kitchen cabinets, spend some extra time cleaning any cabinets that are near your cooking surfaces since they'll have more oil and grease on them. Smooth out any holes or dents in wood or laminate with wood filler. If you have large holes or dents that you want to hide under your paint, fill them with a synthetic wood product. Squeeze the wood filler into the spot and smooth it out with a flexible plastic scraper. Allow the wood filler to dry for a 30 minutes before moving on. Wood filler can be purchased at your local home improvement or hardware store. Put down a drop cloth and tape the edges around your cabinet. Lay a sheet on the floor and countertops so you don't spill any paint or primer on them. Once your surfaces are protected, surround the edges where your cabinet meets a wall with painter's tape. Press the tape onto the wall firmly so paint doesn't get underneath it. Wrap appliances in plastic wrap if you're working on cabinets near them. Painter tape protects against paint and is easy to remove without damaging your walls. Use a fine to medium grit sandpaper to roughen the cabinet surfaces. Find 100-grit sandpaper to remove the finish currently on your cabinets. If your cabinets are made of wood or laminate, sand with the grain so they don't get marked up. Apply light pressure just to roughen up the surface so primer and paint adhere better. Wipe away any dust with a dry paintbrush. Use a sanding sponge or palm sander to get a better grip. Paint a thin layer of bonding primer on your cabinet frames and doors. Bonding primer will hold onto any cabinet material you have. Start by painting the more detailed areas with a paintbrush before working on larger areas with a roller. Paint along with the grain to make a smooth, even surface for your paint. Cover the entire surface with the primer and let it dry completely. Primer doesn't have to look perfect; it just has to cover the surface. Don't use wall primer since it is meant to fill the pores in your drywall for a mechanical bond. A bonding primer holds onto your cabinets with a chemical bond. Remove your labels before you prime your door, but keep them close by so you don't lose them. Prop your doors on small painting tripods to keep them off of your work surface. Use a water-based latex paint for the most durability. Latex paints dry quickly and can easily be cleaned with water. In addition, latex doesn't give off the harmful fumes found in oil-based paints. Visit your local paint store to see what options they have available to use for your cabinetry. Make sure the paint is 100% acrylic for the best durability and adhesion. Use an angled brush to paint in tight, detailed areas. Pour your paint into a container where you can easily move around a paintbrush. Use the brush to work in tight corners and along the edges of your doors. Spread out any pools of paint with the bristle tips of your brush to feather it. Let one side of your cabinet doors dry completely before flipping them over to paint the other side. For wood or laminate cabinets, paint along with the grain to hide your brush strokes. Apply paint with a roller for larger surface areas. For larger areas, use a 4–5 in (10–13 cm) foam roller. Coat the roller in a thin layer of paint in a rolling tray. Work in a W-shaped pattern on your surface so the paint coats it completely. Make sure you can't see the primer underneath your paint or else you'll need to apply another coat. Go back over areas you've already painted to smooth out the paint. Otherwise, the foam from your roller might leave small bumps on your cabinets. Allow the paint to completely dry. Give the paint at least 1 day to set. Don't put anything back in your cabinets while the paint is still wet. When the first sides of your cabinet doors are dry, flip them over and paint the other side. Thin your paint with water. Use a water-based latex paint for the most protection for your cabinets. Latex paint, however, is too thick to put directly into your paint sprayer. Start by emptying your paint into a large bucket and mix in 1 US qt (950 ml) of water for every 1 gallon (3.8 L) of paint. Stir the paint and water together thoroughly. Test the viscosity of the paint with a viscosity cup provided with your paint sprayer. Fill the cup with your paint and time how long it takes for it to drain. Latex paint should take between 20-30 seconds to drain for it to work in your sprayer. Filter the paint into the sprayer with a paint strainer. Filtering the paint makes sure that no viscous material gets into your sprayer. Set the filter on the top opening of the sprayer tank and slowly pour the paint through the filter. Fill it three-quarters full before letting the paint drain into the tank. Keep filtering the paint until the tank is full. Paint strainers can be purchased at your local painting or home improvement store. Test the sprayer on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard. Hold the sprayer about 8 in (20 cm) from the scrap piece to test your paint. Make sure it sprays with a steady and constant stream so it applies evenly to your cabinets. If you need to adjust the amount of paint that comes out, turn the dial on the trigger clockwise or counter-clockwise to increase or decrease the flow respectively. Wear a respirator while working with a sprayer so you don't breathe in any paint. Hold the sprayer 8–10 in (20–25 cm) from your cabinets while painting. Squeeze the trigger on your sprayer to release the paint. Keep the sprayer the same distance away from the cabinets while you're painting them to ensure an even coat. Overlap your spray by ½ of the spray pattern so you don't miss any spots while you're painting. Make sure your other surfaces are covered with plastic or drop cloths so you don't get paint on them. Rotate the nozzle wings to change spray direction in between coats. Turn the nozzle on the front of the sprayer from horizontal to vertical or vice versa. Make sure to use a different spray pattern than what you used for your first coat. That way, your cabinets will have the most consistent and even coats. Let your cabinets dry completely before applying the second coat. Clean the sprayer out within 2 hours of using it. Empty out the sprayer tank and rinse it out completely so paint doesn't dry inside of it. Fill the tank back up with warm soapy water before screwing it back onto your sprayer. Spray the water through the machine for 1 minute to clean the inside. | Remove your cabinet doors and label them. Strip old paint off the cabinets if they were previously painted. Clean the cabinets with a degreaser. Smooth out any holes or dents in wood or laminate with wood filler. Put down a drop cloth and tape the edges around your cabinet. Use a fine to medium grit sandpaper to roughen the cabinet surfaces. Paint a thin layer of bonding primer on your cabinet frames and doors. Use a water-based latex paint for the most durability. Use an angled brush to paint in tight, detailed areas. Apply paint with a roller for larger surface areas. Allow the paint to completely dry. Thin your paint with water. Filter the paint into the sprayer with a paint strainer. Test the sprayer on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard. Hold the sprayer 8–10 in (20–25 cm) from your cabinets while painting. Rotate the nozzle wings to change spray direction in between coats. Clean the sprayer out within 2 hours of using it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Ask-a-Friend-to-Return-an-Item-They-Borrowed | How to Ask a Friend to Return an Item They Borrowed | It can be hard to know how to ask a friend to return an item they borrowed, but if you're polite and direct, you can avoid any awkwardness. For instance, you could say something simple like, “I've been really wanting to watch that DVD I let you borrow. Could I grab that from you next time we meet up?” Alternatively, casually ask them a question about the item. For example, you could say, "Do you still have my hat? I was thinking about wearing it this weekend." If they still don't return it, keep following up with them via text or social media so they don't forget. | Be forward about asking for it back. Be bold and come out with your request. Even if they've had it a long time, just assume they have intended to return it, and say, "I'd like to get my copy of X-Men back when we meet next." With that direct approach, embarrassment or common courtesy will likely cause them to return your item. Ask a question about it. By inquiring about the item you'll be less confrontational. It suggests uncertainty, and allows your friend to be confident in their reply, as if they were the one who decided to return the item. Try a few of the following approaches: "Are you done with my copy of Twilight? I'd like to have it back when you're done." ”Hey, I'm looking for my hat, do you still have it?” ”Would you mind giving the video game back to me?” Send a message regarding the item. A message allows you to be direct without having to confront your friend. It's easily less personal. There is possible misinterpretation, so be careful with your wording. Facebook allows you a great way to send a message. Send a private message with just enough information to let your friend know you'd like the item back. Shoot your friend a quick email. Nothing extravagant is needed. Just ask for your item back. Text your friend. Ask for the item and include their favorite emoticon to make it less harsh. Constantly bring it up. Whenever you talk to your friend, bring it up. No matter the conversation, steer everything back to the loaned item. Your friend will quickly get the hint. Shame your friend playfully. Sometimes a bit of ribbing might be enough to prod a reaction. If some of the more subtle, painless approaches haven't worked, you may need to ratchet up your approach. Post on their Facebook wall. Be playful, and you'll likely get some other friends joining in. If you have art skills, make a digital missing-poster of your item. Joke about calling your friend's mother. There is nothing worse than maternal pressure. Be sure to let your friend's mother know not to be too harsh. Ask to borrow it back. Technically, you're not borrowing it since it's yours, but it could be funny to ask in such a way. Play it up by begging a bit, "Could I borrow it back? Pretty please? I need it! I've always wanted one like that.” Be sarcastic. A slight bit of embarrassment can be minimized if sarcasm is used. Find a way to bring irony or humor to the situation. ”You've had it forever. Is there any tread left on the tire?” ”I'm pretty sure the shirt you borrowed won't be in fashion by the time you give it back.” ”How many times have you beaten the game I lent you by now?” "It's been so long since you borrowed it I forgot if it's a DVD or a VHS." Visit your friend. Go on a social call to your friend's house and act as if the visit is unrelated to the loaned item. Eventually get around to talking about the loaned item, or about something related to your loaned item. A movie: “Remember that Halloween dance scene in Karate Kid?” A tool: “My yard is a mess. I'll have to weed eat for days.” A clothing item: “What I really need is a black scarf to complement this outfit.” Mention its presence during conversation. Note the object in the room, something close enough to be picked up. When calmly talking about the item, mention you had the same item once. Maybe even say how much you enjoyed having it. Pretend you forgot it. When you're near your friend and see the item, say, "You know what? I think this one is mine! Did I leave it here?" Playing dumb is often a good way to be less threatening. They won't be able to deny the truth. They'll likely mimic your feigned ignorance. | Be forward about asking for it back. Ask a question about it. Send a message regarding the item. Constantly bring it up. Shame your friend playfully. Joke about calling your friend's mother. Ask to borrow it back. Be sarcastic. Visit your friend. Mention its presence during conversation. Pretend you forgot it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cure-a-Gout-Attack | How to Cure a Gout Attack | To cure a gout attack, start by removing any clothing or bedding around the affected limb and elevating it on a cushion. Next, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to the limb for 20 minutes.You can continue applying ice in 20-minute intervals, as needed. To ease the pain and swelling in the limb, try taking over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory pain killers, like naproxen. You can also talk to your doctor about stronger medications, like proton pump inhibitors and corticosteroid tablets, to treat gout attacks. | Check the joint for intense pain, swelling, or redness. Usually gout causes severe pain in one joint, like the base of your big toe, or joints like your ankle, wrist, or elbow. Affected joints will swell and the skin may look red or inflamed. Any joint can be affected by gout, and sometimes two or more joints can be affected at one time. Note if it is painful to walk. Putting any pressure on the affected joint will be very painful if you are experiencing a gout attack, and even the weight of a sheet or a blanket can hurt the affected joint. You may also have limited mobility or be unable to move the affected joint at all. Sometimes, gout is mistaken for other forms of arthritis. If you are not sure if you are suffering from gout, you should get checked by your doctor to confirm your diagnosis. Treat the gout attack as soon as possible. If you experience sudden, intense pain, you should call your doctor immediately. If left untreated, gout can lead to worsen pain and joint damage. You should seek immediate medical care if you have a fever and a joint is hot and inflamed, as these are signs of a possible infection. If left untreated, a gout attack can last several days, but usually goes away completely within 7-10 days. Some people only ever experience one gout attack in their lifetime, while others may experience a gout attack weeks, months, or even years after their last attack. Uncover and elevate the affected limb. Remove all surrounding clothing or bedding from the limb so it is open to the air. Raise the limb by sliding a cushion under the limb. Avoid knocking around or damaging the affected limb when you elevate it. Apply an ice pack to the limb. It's important to keep the affected limb cool to ease any pain or swelling. Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a towel before applying it to the limb. Continue to apply the ice pack for 20 minute intervals. Only apply the ice pack to your limb for 20 minutes at a time. Do not apply it directly to your skin or for longer than 20 minutes at a time as this could damage your skin. Touch the affected limb to make sure the temperature of the affected limb has returned to normal before reapplying the ice pack. Get a prescription for anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs). Many people who suffer from gout will have a supply of NSAID tablets ready at home in case an attack occurs. The painkillers will ease most gout attacks and soothe your symptoms within 12-24 hours. There are several types and brands your doctor may prescribe, including diclofenac, indomethacin, and naproxen. Most people can take these drugs without any complications, but some side-effects may occur, including: Bleeding from the stomach. This is more of a risk if you are over 65 years old or have a stomach ulcer. If you have either of these risks, you avoid taking these tablets and talk to your doctor about other possible medications. Some people with asthma, high blood pressure, certain kidney problems, and heart failure may not be able to take anti-inflammatory painkillers. If you are taking medication for other conditions, they could interact negatively with anti-inflammatory painkillers. Talk to your doctor if you are on other medications before taking the painkillers. Take one anti-inflammatory painkiller at a time. Follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor and don't take too many painkillers at once. Continue to take this medication throughout the attack and for 48 hours after the attack has finished. Ask your doctor for proton pump inhibitors (PPI). NSAIDs should be prescribed together with PPIs, which reduces the risk of the NSAID causing indigestion, stomach ulcers, and bleeding from the stomach. These medications will also protect your stomach if you have already taken aspirin and then experience a gout attack. Aspirin plus an anti-inflammatory medication will increase the risk of stomach bleeding. PPIs will help to counteract this risk. Your doctor may also try interleukin-1 inhibitors (IL-1) to control pain. IL-1 may rapidly reduce pain for those who do not respond to NSAIDs. Try colchicine if NSAIDs are ineffective. Colchicine is a medication that is derived from the Autumn crocus plant. It is not a painkiller, but it works to reduce the ability of the urate crystals that inflame your joint lining, thereby reducing some of the inflammation and pain during a gout attack. Colchicine will be prescribed by your doctor and can be an effective treatment for gout if taken in the first 12 hours of the attack. But it should only be used at low doses as it can cause side effects like nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Always follow the recommended dosage. For most people, this means no more than 2-4 colchicine tablets a day. Talk to your doctor about corticosteroid tablets. These are a type of steroids for people that do not respond to other treatments and are unable to take an NSAID or a colchicine. A short course of steroid tablets provides relief but can't be used long-term in high doses as they can cause side effects such as: Weight gain Osteoporosis, or thinning of your bones Bruising and thinning of your skin Muscle weakness Increased vulnerability to infection Corticosteroids can also exacerbate diabetes and glaucoma, an eye condition that can cause blindness if left untreated. Do not use corticosteroids if you have impaired kidney function, impaired liver function, or a risk of heart failure. | Check the joint for intense pain, swelling, or redness. Note if it is painful to walk. Treat the gout attack as soon as possible. Uncover and elevate the affected limb. Apply an ice pack to the limb. Continue to apply the ice pack for 20 minute intervals. Get a prescription for anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs). Take one anti-inflammatory painkiller at a time. Ask your doctor for proton pump inhibitors (PPI). Try colchicine if NSAIDs are ineffective. Talk to your doctor about corticosteroid tablets. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Panograph | How to Make a Panograph | To make a panograph, start by setting a camera to manual mode and adjusting the settings to your liking. Then, find something interesting to take photos of, like a building or landscape, and take a photo of the bottom left corner of it. Next, move your camera slightly up and to the right, and take another photo. Keep doing this until you've captured the entire subject over a series of photographs. Finally, upload your photos to a photo editing software, like GIMP, and arrange them so they all line up to reveal a complete image of the subject you were photographing. | Find something interesting to shoot. As you'll need to take multiple pictures to create a panograph, you'll need to choose something relatively stationary to be the focus of your image. Look for large buildings, interesting architecture, or open landscapes which will remain mostly still for the 20 or so minutes you'll need to capture every picture. Pick something that has 1 or 2 obvious focus points that your eye will be drawn to. This will give you a clear starting point when assembling the panograph. A landscape or building with clear lines or sharp edges will be easier to put together when you're finished. Set your camera to a fully manual mode. If any setting on your camera is set to automatic, it will change as you move your camera around to take photos and make your panograph inconsistent. Disable any automatic settings on your camera, either by setting the camera to a manual mode or disabling each automatic setting yourself. Most DSLR cameras will be easily able to switch to a fully manual mode by adjusting the dial on the top. The manual mode will normally be indicated by the letter M. If you are taking pictures with a smartphone, you may need to download a custom photograph app in order to set it to a manual mode. Look at the app store on your chosen device to find a photography app with a manual mode that works for you. Adjust the settings on your camera. Point your camera at the central or focal point of your panograph, and use it set the white balance, focus, f-stop, shutter speed, and zoom on your camera. Take a few test pictures and adjust the settings further until your first picture looks the way you want it to. If you're unsure how to adjust any of these settings or don't know what they do, check the instruction manual for your camera or learn more about taking photographs. Make sure you don't adjust any of the settings while taking pictures for your panograph. Zoom your camera in to make a panograph made up of more pictures, or keep it zoomed out as far as you can go. Choose a place to stand while taking pictures. In order to construct a good panograph, the perspective has to stay the same while the camera tilts around the capture the scene. Choose a point with a good view of the main focus of your panograph, looking through the viewfinder on your camera to make sure it provides the framing that you want. Make sure you choose a place you can stand comfortably for 20 minutes or so. Don't pick somewhere with a lot of traffic, or anywhere unstable or dangerous. To keep the camera perfectly still, lock it to a tripod placed on the perfect spot. Loosen the ball head and use the handle to rotate the camera around the scene slightly as you take photographs. Take the first photograph. Standing in your chosen perspective point, rotate your body and tilt the camera to the left and downward. Pick a starting point for your panograph that will make up the first picture in the bottom left corner. Without adjusting the settings, take the first picture for your panograph. The settings on your camera might feel off, or the picture you take might be slightly out of focus. Don't worry about this, as the settings are designed to draw your eye to the focal point of the panograph. You can choose a different starting point for slightly different effects. Start in the center and work outwards in a spiral for a more circular or spherical image. As long as you capture every part of the area you want to make into a panograph, it'll turn out great. Rotate slightly to the right and take a second photo. Keep looking through the viewfinder on your camera and rotate it slightly to the right. You should still be able to see a small amount of the content of your first image on the left side of the frame. Snap the second picture, again without adjusting the settings. Make sure that around 1/4 to 1/3 of the left side of your first picture is included in the right side of your second picture. This will ensure that there is plenty of overlap when you go to construct your panograph. You can frame different points in the center of each picture you take to draw focus to them, as long as you can still overlap each image at the end. Work in a pattern to capture the entire scene. Continue rotating your camera slightly to the left and taking another picture until you reach the point you want to be the bottom right corner of your panograph. Tilt the camera up slightly, so it still overlaps with the previous picture, and begin working back across the scene in the other direction. Repeat this process until you've captured everything you want in your panograph. Its better to have too many pictures than too few. Capture more images than you think you'll need to ensure you cover the entire scene and don't miss even a tiny point. The number of photos you need to take will depend on how zoomed in your camera is and the size of the area you need to capture, so there's no perfect number of photos you need to take. Any pattern of taking photos will work, as long as it's something you can easily follow. Choose a photo editing software to use. Assembling all of your photos into a single panograph will use a bit of computing power and some special tools, so a good photo editing software is a must. Choose something such as Photoshop or GIMP, which allow multiple layers of photos, easy rotating and transforming, as well as the ability to edit the opacity of your images. You may be able to construct your panograph in a software like Paint or Paint.net, but it will be very difficult. Photoshop is a professional photo editing software, so it works very well but is also quite expensive for casual users. GIMP is a free photo editing software with many of the same capabilities as Photoshop, so it's a great option for making a panograph. Import the photos into your photo-editing software. Transfer all of the images you captured from your camera onto a folder on your computer. Open your photo-editing software of choice and import all of the photos into a single document. Keep each of the photos on separate layers so that you can move and edit them more easily. In Photoshop, select “Files”, “Scripts”, and then “Load Files into Stack”. This will bring up a window where you can browse for images you want to import. Select OK once all of your images are selected to bring them into a new file. In GIMP, press select “Files” and then “Open as Layers” to select images to import from a file browser. Set the opacity of each layer to 50%. One of the benefits of working digitally is that you can see through the images to line them up perfectly. Select all of the images in your photo editor and change their opacity to be around 50%, so you can just see what's underneath them. Set the layers themselves to be opaque, rather than editing the opacity of the images. The former will only change the way they appear, whereas doing the latter will permanently edit the images themselves. In Photoshop, you can select all of the layers by selecting the first one, then holding down the Shift key as you select the last one. Edit the opacity of the layers by clicking on the “Opacity” drop-down menu and lowering the slider to 50%. In GIMP, you must select each of the layers and edit their opacity individually. One by one, click on each layer and lower its opacity with the toolbar above the “Layers” tab. Increase the size of your canvas. Importing the photos will have set the size of your canvas to the size of your largest photo. As you're combining the photos, you'll need a much bigger area to work with. Click and drag to expand the corners of the canvas, or adjust the size of the canvas in the image settings. In both Photoshop and GIMP, select “Image” and then “Canvas Size” to increase the canvas size. Make the canvas 3 or 4 times bigger than it is currently. This will give you plenty of room to work with, and you can crop the image once you're done if you want to remove some excess white space. Overlap the images to create a single picture. Choose an image to use as a starting point and begin assembling your images like a puzzle. When you find parts of a picture that have the same features in them, rotate, resize, and move the images around until they perfectly overlap. Repeat this process until you have a single image. Depending on how big your panograph is and how many pictures you took, this may take a while. Work slowly and patiently to get the best results. If you run out of space, increase the size of the canvas rather than trying to move the images around. You can always crop the image when you're done. Reset the opacity of the images. Once your panograph has been assembled at 50% opacity, you can reset the opacity to full to see how it looks. Select all of the layers and turn the opacity back up to 100% to make your images fully opaque. If you like the way your panograph looks when it is slightly transparent, you could leave it like that. Play around with different opacities on different layers until the image looks the way you want it to. Move the layers forward and backward to change the focus. With the images at full transparency, the lines between each of the individual pictures might become more obvious. Reduce these or alter their placement by bringing more prominent or interesting images to the front. Move the individual layers around to change the look of your panograph. If you have an object that you want to be a clear focal point, bring an image with that object to the very front of the panograph. This will make clear, distinct lines around it that make it stand out. In both Photoshop and GIMP, you can move layers to the front of the canvas by dragging them towards the top. You can also move layers backward by dragging them closer to the bottom. If you're using a different photo editing software, you may not be able to adjust the positioning of each image once you've set it into place. If you find your panograph looks too crowded, you could try deleting images from it entirely. Find dense spots in the panograph and delete different layers around it. Make sure you don't delete anything that leaves a blank spot in the middle of your picture though! Flatten the pictures into a single image. Take a look over the panograph and make any final adjustments you want to make. Flatten all of the layers into a single image, which will make the file size smaller and the image much easier to move around. In Photoshop, select all of the layers, right-click on one, and select “Flatten Image” from the menu that appears. In GIMP, you can right-click anywhere in the “Layers” and select “Flatten Image” from the menu that appears to flatten all of the layers into one. If you want to continue editing your panograph, you can skip this step, although it will make subsequent steps more difficult. Alternately, you could save a copy of the Photoshop or GIMP file somewhere before flattening the image. Apply any final color correction to your panograph. Select the flattened image in your photo editor and apply any final adjustments to the brightness, contrast, saturation, or anything else you want to edit. Play around with all of the adjustments in your editing software until your panograph looks exactly the way you want it to. In Photoshop, select the layer your panograph is on and go to the“Image” menu in the top bar. From the drop-down menu that appears, choose “Adjustments” and select the parameter you want to edit. A pop-up box will appear to let you adjust the image accordingly. In GIMP, select your panograph layer and go to the “Colors” menu in the top bar. From the drop-down menu that appears, choose the parameter you want to edit and alter it in the pop-up that appears. Save and export the finished picture. Once you've perfected your panograph, it's time to export it into a more manageable picture. Save or export the file, as a PNG or something similar to maintain the high quality, to a location on your computer where you can easily find it. In both Photoshop and GIMP, go to the “File” menu in the top bar and choose “Export” from the drop-down menu that appears. Choose a file type such as PNG to maintain the high quality of your image, and press “Export” to save the image to a chosen location. | Find something interesting to shoot. Set your camera to a fully manual mode. Adjust the settings on your camera. Choose a place to stand while taking pictures. Take the first photograph. Rotate slightly to the right and take a second photo. Work in a pattern to capture the entire scene. Choose a photo editing software to use. Import the photos into your photo-editing software. Set the opacity of each layer to 50%. Increase the size of your canvas. Overlap the images to create a single picture. Reset the opacity of the images. Move the layers forward and backward to change the focus. Flatten the pictures into a single image. Apply any final color correction to your panograph. Save and export the finished picture. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Survive-a-Plane-Crash | How to Survive a Plane Crash | If you're worried about your plane crashing and you want to give yourself the best chances of survival, book a seat in the tail of the aircraft, near an exit, or on the aisle to allow for a quick escape. Once on the plane, listen carefully to the pre-flight safety speech, and count the number of seats between you and the exit row so you could find the door even if it's smoky and loud. If a crash does occur, brace yourself against the seat in front of you, exit the plane as quickly as possible, and get at least 500 feet upwind of the wreckage. | Dress comfortably. You'll need to be able to stay warm if you survive a crash. Even if that is not a consideration, the more of your body is covered during impact, the less likely you are to receive serious injuries or burns. Wear long pants, a long-sleeve t-shirt, and sturdy, comfortable, lace-up shoes. Loose or elaborate clothing poses a risk, as it can get snagged on obstacles in the close confines of a plane. If you know you're going to be flying over cold areas, dress appropriately, and consider keeping a jacket on your lap. Cotton or wool clothing is also preferable as it is less flammable. Wool is preferable to cotton when flying over water, as wool does not lose its insulating properties to the degree cotton does when wet. Wear sensible shoes. Although you may want to be comfortable or professional-looking on a flight, sandals or high heels make it hard to move quickly should there be an emergency. High heels are not allowed on the evacuation slides and you can cut your feet and toes on glass or get flammable liquids on or in your sandals if you wear them. Sit in the tail of the aircraft. Passengers in the tail of the aircraft have 40% higher survival rates than those in the first few rows, in the event of a crash. Because a quick escape gives you the best chance for survival, it's best to get seats as close as possible to an exit, on the aisle, and in the back of the plane. Yes, it's actually statistically safer to fly economy than first-class. Save money and stay safer. Read the safety card and listen to the pre-flight safety speech. Yes, you may have heard it all before, and you'll probably never need it, but if you keep your headphones on during the pre-flight instructions or ignore the safety card, you'll be missing out on information that could be vital in the event of a crash. Don't assume you know it all already, either. Every type of airplane has different safety instructions. If you're sitting in an exit row, study the door and make sure you know how to open it if you need to. In normal circumstances the flight attendant will open the door, but if they are dead or injured, you'll need to do it. Count the number of seats between your seat and the exit row. Find the exit closest to you, and count the number of seats that it'll take to get to it. If the plane crashes, it could be smoky, loud, or confusing in the cabin afterward. If you need to escape, you might have to feel your way to the exit, which will be a lot easier if you know where it is and how far. You might even write down the number in pen on your hand, so you'll have a quick reference if you need to. Keep your seat belt on at all times. Every centimeter of slack in your seat belt triples the G-Force you'll experience in the crash, so keep your seat belt properly tightened at all times you're on the aircraft. Push the belt down as low over your pelvis as possible. You should be able to feel the upper ridge of the pelvis above the upper edge of the belt, which helps to brace you in an emergency much better than your soft stomach. Leave your belt on, even if you're sleeping. If something happens while you're out, you'll be glad to have the restraints in place. Assess the situation. Try to determine what surface the plane will land on so you can customize your preparations. If you're going to be landing in water, for example, you'll want to put your life vest on, though you need to wait to inflate it until you're out of the plane. If you're going to be landing in cold weather, you should try to get a blanket or jacket to keep you warm once outside. Plot out the general course you'll be on ahead of time, so you'll have some idea of where you are when the plane crashes. If you're flying from Iowa to California, you can be fairly certain you won't be landing in the ocean. Use the time before the crash to find your exit. If the plane is going to crash, you almost always have several minutes to prepare before impact. Use this time to once again review where the exits are. Prepare your space as much as possible. If you know you're going to crash, return your seat back to its full upright position and stow away any loose items that could become hazardous, if at all possible. Zip up your jacket and make sure your shoes are tied tightly to your feet. Then assume one of two standard brace positions used for surviving a plane crash and try to remain calm. In either position, your feet should be flat on the floor and further back than your knees to reduce injuries to your feet and legs, which you will need in order to successfully exit the craft after impact. Place your legs as far under the seat as possible to avoid breaking your shin bones. Brace yourself against the seat in front of you. If the seat in front of you is close enough to reach, place one hand palm-down on the back of that seat, then cross the other hand palm-down over the first hand. Rest your forehead against your hands. Keep your fingers unlaced. It's also sometimes recommended that you put your head directly against the seat in front of you and lace your fingers behind your head, tucking your upper arms against the sides of your head to cradle it. Bend forward, if there's no seat in front of you. If you don't have a seat close in front of you, bend forward and put your chest on your thighs and your head between your knees. Cross your wrists in front of your lower calves, and grab your ankles. Try and remain calm. It can be easy to get swept up in the pandemonium immediately preceding and following a crash. Keep a cool head, though, and you're more likely to get out alive. Remember that even in the worst wrecks, you do have a chance of survival. You'll need to be able to think methodically and rationally to maximize that chance. Put on your life jacket but do not inflate it, in the case of a crash in water. If you inflate it in the plane, when it starts to fill up with water, the life jacket will force you upwards against the cabin roof and it will be very hard to swim back down, leaving you trapped. Instead, hold your breath and swim out, once you're out, inflate it. Put your oxygen mask on before assisting others. You've probably heard this on every commercial flight you've been on, but it's worth repeating. If the integrity of the cabin is compromised, you have only about 15 seconds or less to start breathing through your oxygen mask before you are rendered unconscious. While you may feel an impulse to first help your children or the elderly passenger sitting next to you, you'll be no good to anyone if you don't remain conscious. Also, remember that you can put somebody else's oxygen mask on even if they're unconscious. This might help save their life. Protect yourself from smoke. Fire and smoke are responsible for the largest percentage of crash fatalities. The smoke in an airplane fire can be very thick and highly toxic, so cover your nose and mouth with a cloth to avoid breathing it in. If possible, moisten the cloth to provide extra protection. Stay low as you escape, to duck under the level of smoke. It might not seem like a big deal, but passing out due to smoke inhalation is one of the most dangerous things that can happen during this critical period. Get out of the airplane as quickly as possible. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), 68 percent of plane crash deaths are due to post-crash fire, not injuries sustained in the crash itself. It's critical to get out of the aircraft without delay. If fire or smoke is present, you will generally have less than two minutes to safely exit the plane. Make sure the exit you choose is safe. Look through the window to determine if there is fire or some other hazard outside of an exit. If there is, try the exit across the plane, or proceed to another set of exits. Listen to the flight attendants’ post-crash instructions. Flight attendants undergo rigorous training to make sure they know what to do in the event of a crash. If a flight attendant is able to instruct or assist you, listen closely and cooperate to increase everyone's chances of survival. Ditch your stuff. Don't try to rescue your belongings. It's common sense, but still some people don't seem to get it. Leave everything behind. Rescuing your belongings will only slow you down. If you end up needing to salvage supplies from the plane crash site, worry about that later. Right now, you need to make sure that you get clear of the wreckage and find some safe cover. Get out now. Get at least 500 feet (152.4 m) upwind from the wreckage. If you're stranded in a remote area, the best thing to do usually is to stay close to the aircraft to await rescuers. You don't want to be too close, though. Fire or explosion can happen at any time after a crash, so put some distance between you and the plane. If the crash is in open-water, swim as far away from the plane wreckage as possible. Stay in one place, but pay attention to what needs to happen. While it's essential to stay calm after a crash, you also need to recognize when you need to act and do so swiftly. Help out people who are struggling and tend to people's wounds using basic first aid available. Attend to your own wounds if at all possible. Check yourself for cuts and other abrasions, and apply pressure if necessary. Stay in one place to reduce the chance of exacerbating internal injuries. Negative panic is a strange inability to react assertively and appropriately to the situation. For example, a person may just remain in his or her seat instead of heading toward the exit. Watch out for this in your fellow passengers or traveling companions. Call Emergency Services and wait for rescue. You stand a much higher chance of surviving if you just stay put. Don't wander off and look for help, or try to find something close by. If your plane went down, there will be people on the way quickly, and you want to be there when they arrive. Just stay put. | Dress comfortably. Wear sensible shoes. Sit in the tail of the aircraft. Read the safety card and listen to the pre-flight safety speech. Count the number of seats between your seat and the exit row. Keep your seat belt on at all times. Assess the situation. Prepare your space as much as possible. Brace yourself against the seat in front of you. Try and remain calm. Put on your life jacket but do not inflate it, in the case of a crash in water. Put your oxygen mask on before assisting others. Protect yourself from smoke. Get out of the airplane as quickly as possible. Listen to the flight attendants’ post-crash instructions. Ditch your stuff. Get at least 500 feet (152.4 m) upwind from the wreckage. Stay in one place, but pay attention to what needs to happen. Call Emergency Services and wait for rescue. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Friends-With-a-Boy-(Girls) | How to Make Friends With a Boy (Girls) | If you're a girl who wants to make friends with a boy, follow him on social media to learn about his interests and give you something to talk about. That way, you can start a conversation with him about things you have in common, such as TV shows you like, sports, or mutual friends. If you don't know him very well, consider joining a group of club he goes to so you have an opportunity to start talking to him. Once you've had a few conversations, invite him to hang out together doing something you both enjoy. It might be a little nerve-wracking, but it's perfectly find to ask him something like, "Do you want to hang out and watch a movie sometime?" | Find out his interests. Make sure that you speak about his(or her) interest and not only yours. Ask mutual friends about the boy's hobbies or favorite past times. Snoop on his social media to find out his favorite music, movies, and television shows. Pay attention to any sports he plays at school or when he is around friends. For example, you may ask his mutual friends, “What is his favorite thing to do outside of school?” or “Can you tell me what his favorite television show is?” Follow him on social media. Find him on social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and Facebook. Follow him so you can get to know him better through social media. If he follows you back, this can help to build your friendship. You can also use social media to learn more about his interests as well as a direct line of communication. This may help you feel more comfortable with talking to him and help your friendship blossom. Focus on interests you have in common. People are generally attracted to others with similar backgrounds and it will be easier for him to connect with you if he sees these similarities. Think about interests you have in common with the boy, such as a favorite television show or sport. Then, use these shared interests as icebreakers for your first conversations. For example, you may find out that you both like action movies. Or you may discover that you share a common interest in video games. Do not pretend to like things the boy likes just to become friends with him. You will likely find at least one thing you have in common with him so you do not have to fake it. Approach him in a group setting. If you have not had a lot of interaction with him, you may feel more comfortable getting to know him within a group. If you have mutual friends, ask them to help facilitate an introduction when you're all together. If you do not have mutual friends, you could consider becoming involved in a group or club that he attends. This will not only aid in increasing your interaction with him, but will also create an instant common ground that may feel more natural. Maintain open body language around him. When you are around the boy, try to project an open, friendly demeanor. Avoid aggressive body language such as clenching your fists and crossing your arms. Instead, maintain open body language by keeping your arms relaxed at your sides and smiling or nodding at him. When you chat with the boy, you should also maintain eye contact with him to show him you are engaged in what he has to say. Invite him to do something with you. Although it can be nerve-wracking, spending one-on-one time together is a great way to strengthen friendships. Decide on an activity that you will both enjoy and invite him to join. When you invite him, try to find a balance between being open and specific. For example, if you know he enjoys bowling, ask him if he would like to go bowling soon. Not providing an exact date allows for flexibility, while specifying the activity shows you have taken note of his interests and takes the pressure of planning off of him. Keep your interactions with him positive. Your brain associates positive experiences with good feelings, so try to keep your conversations and shared activities upbeat and fun. Soon, he'll associate spending time with you with enjoyment and will want to spend more time with you. Be reliable. Do your best not to make promises you can't keep. When making plans, try to choose a date and time that you know you can keep. Keep in touch and be communicate with him consistently. Failing to do so may make you seem “flaky” which, in turn, may make him feel that you don't care about him. Open up to him. Once you are more comfortable, ask for his advice on a personal matter or consider disclosing personal experiences with him. Trusting him with personal matters can help bring an intimacy to your relationship that only the closest friends have. For example, you may have a one-on-one hang out with him where you tell him about issues you are struggling with at home or at school. You may tell him about how you find it hard to get along with your parents, for example, or that you are having trouble in a subject in school. Be a good listener. Another way you can build a meaningful relationship with the boy is by being a good listener to him. Pay attention when he speaks to you and ask thoughtful questions to show him you are engaged. Maintain eye contact and nod when he speaks. Try not to interrupt him when he speaks and encourage him to keep talking by saying, “Tell me more,” or "I'm so interested in what you have to say." You can also ask thoughtful questions like, “How did that make you feel?” or “Why do you think you reacted in that way?” Act trustworthy and honest around him. Show him that you can be a good friend by being trustworthy and upfront about what you think. If he tells you a secret or confides in you, tell him you will not tell anyone what he told you. Keep any personal information he tells you to yourself, unless he is okay with you sharing it with others. Trust can be difficult to earn and must be maintained, but it truly the foundation to all successful friendships. You should also try to be honest with him so he knows you are not pretending or lying to him. Tell him how you feel and what you think honestly and openly. Experience new things together. Trying something new can be scary, but consider inviting him to participate. Not only will it help ease the anxiety associated with the unknown, but can also prevent your friendship from going stale. For example, if you've both never gone camping before, you may invite him to go with you so you can experience something new together. | Find out his interests. Follow him on social media. Focus on interests you have in common. Approach him in a group setting. Maintain open body language around him. Invite him to do something with you. Keep your interactions with him positive. Be reliable. Open up to him. Be a good listener. Act trustworthy and honest around him. Experience new things together. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-More-Testosterone | How to Get More Testosterone | To increase your testosterone levels with food, make sure to get a balanced diet that includes plenty of lean proteins, leafy vegetables, and healthy fats and cholesterol. One great way to get healthy fats and essential vitamins is to eat unsalted nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, peanuts, or sunflower seeds. Your body also needs essential minerals like zinc to produce testosterone, so go for zinc-rich foods like shellfish and dairy products. Other good testosterone-boosting foods include oatmeal, eggs, and cabbage. It's also important to avoid foods that inhibit testosterone production, so stay away from sugary treats and sodas. You may have heard that some supplements can boost testosterone, but don't try them without talking to your doctor first. | Alter your eating habits. How much testosterone your body produces has a lot to do with diet, so it's important to become aware of exactly what you're eating. A good testosterone-friendly diet includes plenty of healthy fats, green leafy vegetables, protein and cholesterol (it's not all bad!). Low-fat diets should be avoided when trying to boost testosterone. For example, minerals such as zinc and magnesium help to get testosterone production started, while a healthy level of cholesterol allows your Leydig cells to actually make testosterone. In addition, veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage work to lower the levels of estrogen (a female hormone) in your body, thus boosting testosterone levels. Get some nuts. Incorporating a handful or two of walnuts or almonds into your daily diet is a great, easy way to increase testosterone levels. Also try branching out to brazil nuts, cashews, peanuts and other nuts high in monounsaturated fats, as men who regularly consume these fats have higher testosterone levels than men who don't. Seeds, such as sunflower and sesame seeds, also provide high levels of monounsaturated fats, in addition to protein, vitamin E and zinc, all of which boost testosterone. For the healthiest option, go for the unflavored, unsalted versions of nuts and seeds. Eat oysters and other zinc-rich foods. Zinc is one of the most important minerals your body needs for the production of testosterone. In fact, increasing your zinc intake can significantly raise testosterone levels in as little as six weeks. If you're looking for a quick fix, six oysters is all the boost your body needs to produce more testosterone, as oysters contain loads of zinc. But if shellfish isn't your thing, you can also increase your zinc intake by eating protein-rich meats and fish, along with raw dairy products such as milk and cheese, all of which contain high levels of zinc. If you're finding it difficult to increase your zinc intake through diet alone (especially as a vegan or vegetarian) you can help the process along by taking a zinc supplement. The recommended intake for adults is no more than 40 mg per day. Start the day with oatmeal. The health benefits of oatmeal are well-known - it is high in fiber and low in fat - but now there is one more reason to start your day with a bowl of oats: a 2012 study has shown that oatmeal is linked with increased levels of testosterone. The study found evidence that compounds in oats called avenacosides can limit the level of sex-hormone-binding globulins in the system, thus increasing testosterone levels. Oatmeal has also been shown to improve sexual performance. It loaded with L-arginine, an amino acid that reacts with nitric oxide to relax blood vessels. When those blood vessels expand, blood flow is increased mightily. Eat up to 3 whole eggs per day. Eggs are basically a testosterone-producing superfood. Their yolks contain high levels of HDL (a.k.a. the "good" type of cholesterol) which forms the building blocks of testosterone production. In addition, eggs are high in protein and loaded with zinc - two more testosterone producing essentials. Don't worry about your arteries - eating "good" cholesterol will not raise your blood cholesterol levels (unlike "bad" cholesterol such as triglycerides) so you can eat up to three whole eggs a day without compromising your health. Eat cabbage. Cabbage (along with other leafy green veg such as spinach and kale) can do wonders for your testosterone levels. It contains a phytochemical called indole-3-carbinol (IC3) which has the dual effect of increasing male hormones while decreasing female ones. Specifically, a study conducted at Rockefeller University Hospital showed that estrogen levels were reduced by up to 50% in men who took 500 mg of IC3 a week, thus making existing testosterone levels much more effective. The most effective way to increase your IC3 levels at home is to eat plenty of cabbage, so try making cabbage soup , cabbage rolls , cabbage juice , or good old cabbage and potatoes. Reduce your sugar intake. Scientists have found that obese men are 2.4 times more likely to have low testosterone than their counterparts, so it's important that you attempt to shed any extra pounds in order to increase testosterone. The fastest way to do this is to cut as much processed sugar from your diet as possible. If you are an avid soda drinker, that should be the first thing to go. Sodas are filled with processed sugars and empty calories, which lead to insulin resistance and weight gain. Just by cutting your daily can of soda from your diet, you could be eliminating a ton of calories. Fructose is a type of sugar found in processed foods and fruit juices. It is believed to be one of the major factors behind modern-day obesity. To decrease your fructose intake, cut out processed food and drinks, along with refined carbohydrates found in breakfast cereals, bagels, pretzels, waffles etc. Take vitamin D3. It's technically a hormone, but a really important one at that. Studies show that people who regularly take D3 supplements actually have higher testosterone levels. Stay away from supplements that aren't backed up by scientific evidence. While they may be in vogue, they certainly don't help you produce more testosterone. These are the things you should stay away from: Vitamin C. Unless you have diabetes, you won't benefit much from taking this supplement to boost your testosterone. While it may be beneficial in boosting testosterone in diabetic rats, that's about the extent of the scientific evidence. You're most likely getting enough vitamin C from your diet. ZMA. ZMA is a supplement blend of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6. Recent studies have found that ZMA has absolutely no effect on the production of testosterone in men. Unless you know you have deficiencies in any one of these categories, steer clear. Do your research. Research supplements that claim to help raise testosterone levels. If you're unsure, be your own advocate and make an informed decision. Just because it's out there on the internet does not make it true. Develop an exercise plan and stick to it. If you're hoping to increase your testosterone levels, diet isn't the only thing to consider. Exercise is an equally important part of increasing testosterone levels, which is why you should come up with an effective, yet sustainable fitness plan designed to maximize testosterone production. Specific types of exercise, such as weightlifting, actually cause the body to produce more testosterone. Exercising decreases your chances of being overweight and, as discussed above, being overweight can negatively impact testosterone levels. If you're not sure where to begin, it may be a good idea to enlist the services of a personal trainer who can develop an exercise plan specifically tailored to your current fitness level, along with your desired outcome. Start lifting weights. If you want to boost testosterone, you should begin to lift weights, as weight-lifting is the most effective form of exercise for increasing testosterone production. However, for best results, you will need to lift heavier weights with fewer repetitions, and it's probably best to avoid the weight machines altogether. Stick with free weights and follow the advice below: Lift large muscle groups. Studies show that lifting larger muscle groups, which require complex, compound movements, is much more effective for producing testosterone than working just one or two smaller muscles. For this reason, you should stick with weight exercises such as bench presses , squats, deadlifts , and shoulder presses. Try to work out with high volume. The type of exercises you perform will mean nothing if you don't have enough volume. You should be doing at least 3 to 4 sets of each compound exercise, using a weight you can only lift 5 times per set. The volume of your workout is determined by this formula: reps x sets x weight = volume. However, when it comes down to a choice between more repetitions or more sets, you should choose more sets every time. Focus on high intensity. Push yourself hard in the gym - only by pushing yourself to your physical limit will you maximize your testosterone production. Increase intensity by performing each exercise more slowly and by resting for no longer than two minutes between sets Try high intensity interval training. High intensity interval training, or HIIT, is another form of exercise which can actively increase testosterone levels, in addition to improving fitness and speeding up the metabolism. HIIT involves performing an exercise in a short, intense burst then following it up with an easier, recovery exercise. This process is then repeated several times throughout the workout. This type of exercising can be adapted for most types of exercise - you can perform HIIT on the treadmill, the elliptical, in the swimming pool, etc. Just use the following formula: perform the high-intensity exercise for approximately 30 seconds, then follow it up with approximately 90 seconds of slower recovery exercise. Repeat this 7 more times for best results. Even 20 minutes of this type of exercise can reap huge rewards - so there's no excuse for not finding the time. Do some cardio. While cardio exercise won't have a huge impact on testosterone production, it can still have a positive impact on overall testosterone levels. As a result, you should try to incorporate some running, swimming, spinning or other aerobic exercise into your fitness plan. Cardio is one of the best ways to burn fat, so incorporating a little running or swimming into your weekly exercise plan will help you to shed any extra pounds. This is good news, as being overweight can negatively impact testosterone. When you're stressed, your body releases a chemical called cortisol which, amongst other things, inhibits testosterone production. Cardio exercise is also a great form of stress-relief so it can reduce your body's cortisol production, thus increasing testosterone. However, cardio should be practiced in moderation - there's no need to become a long-distance runner. In fact, a study conducted by the University of British Columbia found that male runners who ran more than 40 miles (64 km) per weeks had lower levels of testosterone than short-distance runners. Allow your body to recover between workouts. Despite the importance of exercise, it is imperative that you give your body the time it needs to recover between workouts. Otherwise, your exercise regime may be having a negative effect on your testosterone levels. A study conducted by the University of North Carolina found that over-training can decrease men's testosterone levels by up to 40%. Therefore, it is very important that you take at least two days off from intense exercise per week, and that you avoid working the same muscle groups in two consecutive training sessions. On days when you're not exercising intensely, just try to be more active than usual. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or bike to work, use a standing desk instead of sitting down all day. These small changes help to keep your body moving, which is good news for testosterone levels. Get enough sleep. Sleep is a very important factor when it comes to testosterone levels. This is because your body uses the time you're asleep to produce more testosterone. Therefore, you should do your very best to get at least 7 to 8 hours sleep a night. A study conducted at the University of Chicago found that men who spent less than 5 hours sleeping for 7 consecutive nights produced 10% to 15% less testosterone compared to when they were fully rested. In addition to decreased testosterone production, being sleep deprived also increases the amount of cortisol (the stress hormone) in your system, and high levels of cortisol negatively impact testosterone levels. Not getting enough sleep also interferes with your growth hormones, which can prevent you from building muscle when you work out. You should also try to improve the quality of your sleep by turning off all computers and electronics an hour before bed, avoiding caffeinated drinks late in the evening, and having a hot shower before bed. Avoid stress. Many experts believe that stress is one of the major contributing factors in the widespread fall in testosterone levels in modern day men. This is because the hormone which causes stress - cortisol - has been found to have an inverse relationship with testosterone. In other words, when cortisol levels are high, testosterone levels are low, and vice versa. It is believed that cortisol, which puts your body in "fight or flight" survival mode, conflicts with testosterone-related behaviors such as aggression, competition and mating. This is why the two cannot co-exist harmoniously. In order to maximize testosterone levels, it is important to minimize stress in any way you can. Consider trying deep breathing techniques , meditation , yoga or visualization. Cut back on the booze. Alcohol can have a negative impact on your testosterone production. Binge drinking can negatively affect the endocrine system, which, in turn, prevents the testes from producing testosterone. In addition, alcohol raises cortisol levels and inhibits growth hormones - bad news for testosterone. Unfortunately, beer is the worst type of alcohol when it comes to healthy testosterone. This is because the hops used to make beer are full of estrogen (the female hormone). So you might switch to drinking liquor instead, or nothing at all. When drinking, it's best to cut yourself off after two/three drinks, as this will limit the damage to your testosterone levels. Reduce your caffeine intake. Caffeine needs to be taken in moderation, otherwise it can produce cortisol, which negatively impacts testosterone levels. In addition, consuming too much caffeine late in the day can disrupt sleeping patterns - and less sleep means less testosterone. However, recent studies have shown that consuming caffeine before a workout can actually boost your performance - so if you're really craving a cup of coffee, have one before you pump iron. Indulge in things you enjoy. Luckily, increasing your testosterone levels doesn't have to be all work and no play. There are several enjoyable things you can do to boost your testosterone. Watch more sports. Researchers at the University of Utah have found that the testosterone levels of sports fans are linked with their favorite team's performance. The testosterone levels of the research subjects increased by up to 20% when their team won, but decreased by the same percentage when their team lost. Therefore, you should feel completely justified in watching more sports - as long as you're sure your team will win! Have more sex. You probably know that testosterone is what fuels men's sex drive, but did you know that it also works the other way around? That's right; having sex can actually increase your testosterone levels. And not only that - just the act of having an erection, or getting turned on by an attractive person is enough to boost testosterone. Enjoy the great outdoors. Getting outside and enjoying the sunshine can be hugely beneficial to testosterone. In fact, exposing yourself to those vitamin D filled rays for just 15 to 20 minutes a day can increase testosterone levels by a whopping 120%. If you can sunbathe naked, the results are even higher. Just don't get caught. Address high blood pressure levels. Studies have found that men with high blood pressure are 1.8 times likelier to have low testosterone than their counterparts. There are specific diets than you can start on — such as the DASH diet — in order to decrease your high blood pressure and improve your testosterone levels. Other factors such as reducing stress, cutting out booze and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help to reduce blood pressure. And if all else fails, blood pressure medication can help to keep your hypertension under control. See your doctor to figure out the best course of action for you. Avoid xenoestrogens. Xenoestrogens are chemicals that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, which is bad news for your testosterone levels. Unfortunately xenoestrogens (like other endocrine disruptors) have infiltrated almost every part of daily lives and are impossible to avoid completely. Here are some ways you can limit your exposure: Avoid heating food in plastic containers. If you're heating up leftovers, make sure to transfer your food to a plate before popping in the microwave. Most plastic containers contain phthalates (a type of xenoestrogen) which can be transferred to your food when the plastic is heated. If possible, store your food in glass containers instead. Limit exposure to pesticides and gasoline. Both of these contain xenoestrogens, so try to limit your exposure as much as possible. If you come in contact with either, wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Eat organic produce. Non-organic foods are often sprayed with pesticides and pumped with hormones which mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Choose organic product when possible, or at least wash fruit and veg thoroughly before eating and avoid meat and dairy products which come from cows that have been treated with hormones. Use natural grooming products. Items such as shampoos, soaps, toothpastes and deodorants can introduce xenoestrogens to the body, so consider making the switch to more natural versions of these products. See your doctor. If you believe you may be suffering from a condition called low-testosterone, consult with your doctor. Your doctor can check your testosterone levels by ordering a blood test. If your levels are low, your doctor can prescribe medicine that will help your body produce more testosterone. Keep in mind that testosterone levels are highest in the morning, so it is best to get your levels checked early in the day. | Alter your eating habits. Get some nuts. Eat oysters and other zinc-rich foods. Start the day with oatmeal. Eat up to 3 whole eggs per day. Eat cabbage. Reduce your sugar intake. Take vitamin D3. Stay away from supplements that aren't backed up by scientific evidence. Develop an exercise plan and stick to it. Start lifting weights. Try high intensity interval training. Do some cardio. Allow your body to recover between workouts. Get enough sleep. Avoid stress. Cut back on the booze. Reduce your caffeine intake. Indulge in things you enjoy. Address high blood pressure levels. Avoid xenoestrogens. See your doctor. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Solar-Panels | How to Choose Solar Panels | There are a few things to consider when you're choosing solar panels to suit your needs. If efficiency is important to you, go for monocrystalline panels. For a more environmentally friendly and cheaper option, choose polycrystalline panels. Thin-film and amorphous panels are even cheaper but they also degrade faster and may need repairing over the years. You'll also need to choose an inverter to convert your solar energy into electricity. Central inverters are the most reliable, especially under harsh weather conditions, while string inverters are a more affordable option. Micro-inverters generally last longer and will keep working even if one panel fails, but they're also the most expensive option. | Choose monocrystalline solar panels for efficiency. Monocrystalline solar panels are the best at converting light to energy because of their high silicon purity. That being said, monocrystalline solar panels are often the most expensive—this option is best if you want the highest productivity and price tag. Monocrystalline solar panels cost between $300-700 USD per panel. Monocrystalline solar panels also produce the most waste when they're manufactured. If you're buying solar panels to go green, another material may suit your needs better. All solar panels are made of silicon. The higher the silicon purity, the better your panel will work, which is why monocrystalline panels are ideal. Go with polycrystalline solar panels for an environmentally-friendly option. Polycrystalline solar panels utilize all of the silicon material they're manufactured with, making them the "greenest" panel option. Polycrystalline solar panels are also cheaper than monocrystalline panels, though they are not quite as efficient. Polycrystalline solar panels usually cost between $200-500 USD per panel. Polycrystalline solar panels do not do as well in warm temperatures. Hot climates with temperatures regularly above around 80 °F (27 °C) are not suitable for polycrystalline panels. Buy thin-film solar panels for the most budget-friendly option. Thin-film panels are cost-efficient to make and are usually the cheapest option. They also, however, degrade faster than other panels. Choose thin-film if you need a simple solar panel that may need more repairs over the years. Polycrystalline solar panels usually cost between $175-300 USD per panel. Thin-film panels usually need the most space and are less practical for smaller homes. They may need up to twice as much room as a mono- or polycrystalline solar panel with the same energy output. Buy amorphous solar panels for smaller homes. Amorphous solar panels are a subset of thin-film solar panels. Generally, they are smaller than other thin-film panels. Through a process called "stacking," which involves multiple layers of amorphous silicon cells, these panels can reach high levels of efficiency, around twice as high as other thin-film solar panels. Amorphous solar panels are more expensive than other thin-film panels. Amorphous solar panels generally cost between $200-400 USD per panel. Do research on solar panel manufacturers. The solar panel industry has grown a lot in the past few years. Currently, there are already many good and reliable solar panel manufacturers out there. However, there have also been many manufacturers that instead offer cheap and low-quality solar panels, many of which are from China. Although it is also important to note that many of the top solar panel manufacturers are also from China. This means that we should not judge a solar panel's quality based just on the country of origin. Look at Bloomberg's Tier 1 Solar Panel list. Each year, Bloomberg New Energy Finance publishes a tier 1 list of solar panel manufacturers as a way to guide investors on which solar panel manufacturers are good to invest in terms of solar projects. Although this list is not a direct indication of quality, we can still use this to separate the good quality solar panels from the low-quality ones. Choose central inverters for their track record. Central inverters are the oldest and most common solar inverter type. These inverters are also usually the most reliable option, as they function well in harsh climates and have been researched the most by environmental scientists. Central inverters can cost between $1500-2400 USD. Pick string inverters for the least expensive option. String inverters are a newer form of central inverters that connect a group of small panels together so they function as one. They are also usually cheaper than central inverters and the most budget-friendly inverter choice. String inverters may cost between $1400-2000 USD String inverters work best on houses with a flat roof. Compared to power optimizers and microinverters, string inverters are an older technology. Buy power optimizers if you want to use your panel in partial shade. This type of solar inverter is embedded into the solar cell, which helps them work in shady locations. Choose power optimizers if your home receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight with periods of partial shade in-between. Power optimizers may cost $2000+ USD, depending on the strength of the device. Like all solar panels, power optimizers will not work in perpetually cloudy environments. Choose microinverters for long-term use. Microinverters generally last longer than other solar panel types. Unlike other inverters, which stop working if a single panel fails, microinverters keep working with a broken panel. Because of their long lifespan, however, microinverters are also the most expensive option. Microinverters can cost up to $2300-2500 USD. Microinverters are often easiest to install. Pick a ballasted mount if you live in an area with low wind. Solar panels on a ballasted mount are attached to the roof at an angle several feet or meters above the roof. Ballasted mounts are efficient because they do not penetrate the roof and receive more direct sunlight. Because this design makes them more vulnerable to being blown away, however, they do not work well in windy climates. On the whole, ballasted systems tend to be the cheapest mounting option. They can cost between $50-100 USD per panel. Ballasted systems generally cover the whole roof, which can make maintenance or remodeling hard. Buy a mechanically-attached mount for the most secure option. Solar panels on a mechanically-attached mount are attached tightly to the roof at a slight or no angle. Because mechanically-attached mounts are mounted to the roof beams, they fare well in harsh weather. They also take up less space and are ideal if you need access to your roof often. Because mechanically-attached mounts are smaller, they're usually easier on the roof. Mechanically-attached mounts may cost between $75-125 per panel. Pick a hybrid for the benefits of ballasted and mechanically-attached mounts. Hybrid mounts are attached to the roof like mechanically-attached mounts but may be slightly raised or angled like ballasted mounts. This keeps them secure to the roof while receiving more direct sunlight like ballasted mounts. Choose a fixed mount if you cannot place your panels on the roof. Fixed mounts follow the sun throughout the day. This orients their panel positioning to absorb as much sunlight as possible. If your solar panel is on the ground and receives some shade each day, fixed mounts can help your system convert more energy. Fixed mounts can cost between $160-200 per panel. Choose a solar panel based on the type of building you're using it in. Depending on whether you're using the solar panels in a residential, commercial, or industrial building, some solar panels may fit your needs better than others. Let the company you're purchasing solar panels from know what kind of building you're using solar panels in so they can help you find the right option. If you're buying solar panels for an industrial building, for example, you may want monocrystalline panels for their efficiency at converting energy. Determine your electrical usage needs before purchasing solar panels. If your building expends a lot of energy, an expensive solar panel that generates more energy may help you save more in the long-term. Consult your past 2 or 3 energy bills to decide whether the solar panel's price or efficiency is a better investment. If your electricity bill is high every month and you plan to live in your house for a long time, for example, you may choose a monocrystalline solar panel. If you do not use as much electricity, however, a thin-film solar panel may fit your needs. Set a budget before shopping around for solar panels. Between the panel material, solar inverter type, and other factors, the cost of a solar panel can add up over time—if you're not careful, you may end up overspending. Decide how much you're willing to spend beforehand so you don't put too much money into your panels without realizing it. Shop around at several different solar panel companies to compare deals before purchasing a system. Check to see if you qualify for government rebates for buying solar panels. Some countries offer government-issued tax rebates for solar panel installation. If your country offers this program, you may be able to reduce the net cost of your solar panel. Consult a financial advisor to discover solar panel tax rebates in your country. Depending on your country, you may receive between 30-50% off of your net cost in rebates. | Choose monocrystalline solar panels for efficiency. Go with polycrystalline solar panels for an environmentally-friendly option. Buy thin-film solar panels for the most budget-friendly option. Buy amorphous solar panels for smaller homes. Do research on solar panel manufacturers. Look at Bloomberg's Tier 1 Solar Panel list. Choose central inverters for their track record. Pick string inverters for the least expensive option. Buy power optimizers if you want to use your panel in partial shade. Choose microinverters for long-term use. Pick a ballasted mount if you live in an area with low wind. Buy a mechanically-attached mount for the most secure option. Pick a hybrid for the benefits of ballasted and mechanically-attached mounts. Choose a fixed mount if you cannot place your panels on the roof. Choose a solar panel based on the type of building you're using it in. Determine your electrical usage needs before purchasing solar panels. Set a budget before shopping around for solar panels. Check to see if you qualify for government rebates for buying solar panels. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Put-Griptape-on-a-Skateboard | How to Put Griptape on a Skateboard | To put griptape on a skateboard, start by taking off any old griptape and thoroughly cleaning your board. Then, center some new griptape over your skateboard deck and peel back the paper guard on the back of the griptape at one end. Then, carefully press the end of the griptape onto your board, making sure there aren't any bubbles. Work your way down your board, peeling back the paper guard as you go, until the deck is completely covered. Finally, trim off the excess tape with a knife or box cutter. | Buy griptape. Look for brand names that are dedicated to grip tape, such as Alien Ware, Speed Demons, Mob, Black Magic, Grizzly, and Jessup. Set your skateboard on a flat, clean work surface. This can be the ground, a table, or any other comfortable space. Remove any existing griptape. Peeling off the old tape is simple, but it takes time. Using a hair dryer can help. Pull it slowly and carefully away from the deck. If you are too rough or hasty, the tape may rip and tear, making the job harder. Clean your skateboard completely. Rid the deck of dust, dirt, rocks—anything that could ruin the tape's adhesive. You'll need it to be as clean as possible, so that your new griptape sticks to your skateboard longer. Consider taking your board to a skate shop. Many skate shops will put griptape onto your board for you, although it may be cheaper to do it yourself. At the very least, consider visiting a skate shop and asking for help if you are still unsure about the process. Center the griptape over your skateboard deck. Start by lining up the tape with the board so that you know the correct length and won't have it stuck on crooked. It's difficult to correct mistakes once it sticks. Make sure the grip surface is longer and wider than your deck—you will cut the excess tape away when you are done. If you have a design on your grip, arrange where you want it to be. Some people don't like the "classic" grip, and they go for different ways of gripping. For example: you can cut your grip in half before attaching it so that you have a line of grip-less space across your board, or you can draw a "silhouette"and cut it out so that you have a icon on your board. Imagine you have a grip tape that has a drawing/design on the center of it, and you don't want it to be in the center of your board. Just center the drawing where you want it to be (e.g. the nose or the tail). You'll probably have a part of your deck with no grip, but you'll also have a big extra piece of grip hanging off the other side. Cut this piece out and use it to fill the "missing grip area". Peel back a few inches of the paper guard and place it on one end of the board. Smooth out any small bubbles by pressing and pushing in the direction that you are lining the tape. If there are large bubbles that could eventually create a crease, you will want to pull back on the grip tape extremely carefully to remove these. Make sure that the adhesive doesn't stick to anything else. Use two hands! This is a slow and patient process, and you don't want to rip the tape. Carefully smooth the entire grip onto the deck. Start slowly from one end of board and move your way across, pushing down on the tape so that you remove any air bubbles. Some brands already have small holes in their griptape to reduce the risk of air bubbles, but you should probably flatten the tape just to be safe. Flatten the griptape against the edges of the board. You can always pull the grip tape up and try again. Try not to do this more than once or twice, or else the grip tape may lose its sticky backing. Make sure that the grip is in line with the board. Make sure that the griptape covers the entire surface, unless you are leaving exposed wood in some areas for stylistic reasons. Some of the griptape may extend past the edges of the deck, but do not worry—you will trim this excess away with a knife or razor. Scrape the sides. You'll notice that you have "extra" grip on the edges of the deck. Grab a screwdriver, a metal file, or another blunt object, and scrape it around the sides of the board until the griptape develops a white edge. This is a way of sealing the edges of your griptape. If you do this correctly, you'll have a white outline of your deck on your grip—this outline marks out the area where you should cut away the excess grip tape on the side of your skateboard. Make sure to use long strokes instead of short, aggressive ones—otherwise, you might tear up the sides. Also be careful not to file off the polish on the edge of your board. Use a knife or a box cutter to trim off any excess tape. Most boards have curved edges from sanding, so you want to trim the tape past the curve along the edge. Make long and steady cut motions for the best result. Remember to hold the blade in a slight angle towards the edge of the skateboard so you don't get a small line of grip sticking out. Use the outline of your grip for reference: you need to cut along the sides of the deck, and around the nose and tail of the board. Make sure to keep all fingers out of the way at all times, as the razor blade can easily slip from the material. Use two hands to make it easier. You do not want it to accidentally dig into the deck of your board! Flatten out air bubbles. Once the board is completely taped, inspect it for small air bubbles. Use a knife or a razor blade to make small incisions into the grip tape; this should release any bulging air bubbles. Smooth over the incision so that the grip tape sticks smoothly to the deck. Poke holes to screw the trucks on. If you don't yet have trucks on your board, use a screwdriver to poke eight holes in the griptape where the screws for the trucks will go. If you already have trucks on your board, you can wait to poke these holes until you replace the trucks, or you can poke the holes as follows: Take a second deck of the same size with no trucks on and use it as a "guide" for where to poke the holes. Mark the spots with a pencil or poke a small hole. You can now use a razor blade to cut a hole around the screw, big enough to unscrew the trucks. Unscrew each one and put them back so it looks "cleaner". If you don't have a second board, try to guess where the holes go. Try "following" the screws and poking using a needle. If you poke the center of the deck, the needle won't go far; if you poke the screw, if will go further and you will know where the hole must go. Neaten up the edges. Your first attempt might look a little butchered, so go around and trim up the ridges. Run the Stanley knife, box cutter, or razor blade around the outer edge of your skateboard to remove any extra scraps. Most of the imperfections will not be too noticeable as the deck wears over time. Take a small piece of extra grip or sandpaper and lightly rub the edges where the grip sticks to the board. This may prevent the grip from peeling off the board later. Add any last-minute stylistic touches. While you have the knife out, you can cut a little triangle (or another shape) between the screw-holes on one end of the board. Some skaters do this to more easily identify the nose or tail of their board. Cut out a circle or a hexagon to give your board some special looks and give it interesting riding characteristics. If you want you can use paint markers or colored sharpies to draw designs or patterns on the grip tape. Be creative! | Buy griptape. Set your skateboard on a flat, clean work surface. Remove any existing griptape. Clean your skateboard completely. Consider taking your board to a skate shop. Center the griptape over your skateboard deck. Peel back a few inches of the paper guard and place it on one end of the board. Carefully smooth the entire grip onto the deck. Make sure that the grip is in line with the board. Scrape the sides. Use a knife or a box cutter to trim off any excess tape. Flatten out air bubbles. Poke holes to screw the trucks on. Neaten up the edges. Add any last-minute stylistic touches. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Your-Mother-in-Law-to-Move-out-of-Your-House | How to Get Your Mother in Law to Move out of Your House | If you need your mother-in-law to move out, you'll want to ask her calmly while being clear about your wishes. Talk to your spouse first and figure out when you want their mother to move out so you can present a united front to your mother-in-law. Sit down with her and explain the plan you've agreed on. For example, say something like, “We've decided that we'd like you to move out before the summer. We still want you in our lives, but we need space to focus on our own family.” Make sure you reassure her that you love her and you'll still see her, since it will probably be a lot for her to take in. You can also offer to help her find a place to live, which should soften the blow. | Ask your spouse to sit down with you. Tell your spouse that you'd like to have a serious conversation about your mother-in-law, and ask him or her when a good time would be. Letting your spouse know in advance that you want to have a serious talk will keep them from feeling blindsided when you do sit down to talk. Don't avoid the talk for too long, as doing so builds resentment. In addition, if you want too long, your stress could come out as you snapping at your spouse because they're the person you can take it out on. Tell your spouse what you want. You want your mother-in-law to move out, and you need to be upfront about that. Remember, though, your spouse may not want to hear it, especially if they enjoy having their mother around. You could say, "I love your mother, I do. I think it's time that we have our own space, though. I think it's time to ask your mother to move out." Don't forget to give your partner some breathing room before launching into why. Bring up any extra work. Make a list of everything extra you do because your mother-in-law is in the house. This step isn't to be petty. It's to show your spouse that it really is taxing for his or her mother to be there. Your spouse may not even realize how much of a burden it is putting on you. You don't want to blame your spouse for the extra work. Rather, you just want to bring his or her attention to it. For example, you don't want to say, "Your mother is so much work!" Rather, you might say, "I'm working longer hours with her in the house. I love her, and I like doing things for her. However, there's only so much of me to go around. You may not realize how much extra I do because she's here, so here are some of the things I do for her." Talk about the stress. You also need to discuss what stress she brings to the household. It could be intentional stress, such as her criticizing your choices, or could be non-intentional, such as her constant presence putting a damper on your sex life. Once again, try to bring it up in such a way that you're not blaming your spouse for it. Try using "I" statements instead of "You" statements. As an example, you could say, "I enjoy spending time with your mother. Sometimes, though, it puts stress on us as a family. It makes me upset when she criticizes the children, and we don't get to be intimate as often as we used to." Discuss finances. Another important topic to bring up is how your mother-in-law is affecting your finances. If this point is your main point of contention, then maybe you can discuss ways it can be alleviated. If finances are the only reason you want your mother-in-law to move out and you can afford the extra expense of having her there, you might not get very far with this argument. Agree on common goals. The point of this discussion is to make sure you're on the same page. Discussing your mother-in-law moving out is a sensitive topic, but if having her around is hurting your family and your marriage, it's a discussion you need to have. As you have the discussion, you need to agree on what some common goals could be. Of course, when agreeing on common goals, you may need to compromise. For instance, one compromise could be buying a house that has an apartment in the back. Try to set up dates for your goals. If your goal is to have your mother-in-law move out, by what date will she need to move out? Discuss how you can help her to move out. Maybe you can help her find a place or assist with finances if you are able. Understand where your spouse is coming from. When it comes to having parents in your house, emotional baggage is involved. Your spouse may feel like they aren't doing their duty to their parent if they ask them to move out. The best you can do is come up with a compromise you can both live with, which may include assisted living if you can't continue to care for an elderly mother-in-law by yourself. Sit down together with your spouse and mother-in-law. This conversation isn't one you can have alone with your mother-in-law. In fact, it's probably better if your spouse leads the conversation, as she may take it better coming from him or her. If your spouse isn't on the same page as you, this conversation isn't going to work. You're going to need to work together. Bring up what you've decided. Now is the time to discuss the goals you've come up with together. You need to lay them out in as polite a way as you can, but there's no way you can hide the fact that you're asking her to move out. It's best to give her more than one option if you can, and try to end on good news, if possible. For example, you could say, "We've decided that we've liked you to move out. We've really loved having you here, and we still want you in our lives. However, we need space to figure out our own family." Include a time frame and the help you're willing to offer. "We'll help you find a place, but we'd like you to choose one by the end of the summer. We want you to stay close by, though, because we like having you around." Be compassionate. Just because you're at your wit's end doesn't give you permission to be mean. Your mother-in-law deserves your respect and kindness, even when you're asking her to do something difficult like move out. Reassure your mother-in-law of your love. Let her know that just because you're asking her to move out doesn't mean you don't care for her and want her to be a part of your family. You just want space to make your own family. Give her enough time. You don't want to push your mother-in-law out the door in a month. Give her an ample amount of time to find an new living arrangement, especially if money is an issue. Three months is a good amount of time, but a half a year may be better. Find a place for her to live. One way to help make the transition easier is to find options that are within budget for her if she will have trouble doing this herself. Go and view them yourself before you take her to see if they're her taste. Make it close to you. That way, she won't feel like you want her out of your life completely. Don't decide for her. Even if she needs some help with care, it should still be her decision where she lives, unless she can't decide at all. Consider a house with a backyard apartment. Many families are in mult-generational housing, which can take on many forms. One option is having a separate apartment for your mother-in-law, so she has her own space. If that's the option you choose, you'll need to find a new house that has this option. In this instance, she'll still be close by, but you can have more separate lives. It can also help alleviate the guilt your spouse may feel about abandoning his parent. Look at assisted living. If you are being the caregiver for your mother-in-law, the next option may be independent or assisted living. These options allow your mother-in-law to have some independence, while still getting the care she needs. The problem is these options can be very expensive. Nonetheless, if your mother-in-law has exhausted other options, Medicaid will often pay for some form of assisted living. Use home health aids. One option for a mother-in-law who has declining health is to use home health aids. You can hire home health aids to simply be with your mother-in-law to give you a break, or you can use them for more hands-on care that you can't handle. However, this option can be costly to use on a regular basis, so you need to consider your financial situation before deciding on a home health aid. It may be possible that your mother-in-law can pay for the aid, but many elderly people are not keen on outside help, even when they need it. Think about adult day care. Another option for older adults is adult day care. Adult day care is much like day care for kids. Your mother-in-law goes to a center during the day, where she'll be provided with meals, activities, and sometimes, physical therapy. Once again, though, it can be expensive, and your mother-in-law might not be very amenable to the idea. The plus side is it frees up your days to do things outside the home, if you've been staying home caring for your mother-in-law. Ask family for help. If your spouse has other siblings, they may be able to provide some help, even if they can't invite your mother-in-law to live with them. Asking for help can be difficult, but it can take some of the burden off of you and your family. For instance, your family may be able to stay with your mother-in-law once in a while to help spot you. They may also be able to invite your mother-in-law for short stays, such as a week or two, to give you a break. Church friends and other close friends may also be willing to offer some relief by giving you an afternoon off. Family may be willing to chip in a bit financially. If $100 would make a difference in how you feel about having her there, maybe some family members would be able to help out, since they can't take her themselves. Ask for space. If your mother-in-law is independent, ask her if you can have some alone time with your spouse so that you can grow your marriage. Suggest that she give you an alone night once a week by letting you go out with your spouse or by having her go out. Another option is simply taking a break yourself. That is, when you feel yourself getting stressed, get out of the house. Go take some time for yourself away from your mother-in-law. | Ask your spouse to sit down with you. Tell your spouse what you want. Bring up any extra work. Talk about the stress. Discuss finances. Agree on common goals. Understand where your spouse is coming from. Sit down together with your spouse and mother-in-law. Bring up what you've decided. Be compassionate. Give her enough time. Find a place for her to live. Consider a house with a backyard apartment. Look at assisted living. Use home health aids. Think about adult day care. Ask family for help. Ask for space. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Recognize-Tetanus-(Lockjaw) | How to Recognize Tetanus (Lockjaw) | Tetanus, or lockjaw, is a serious infection that can enter the body through a cut or wound and spread to the rest of your body in as little as 3 days. If you get a deep puncture wound from a dirty source, get a tetanus booster immediately. Some of the early signs of tetanus include headaches and stiffness in the jaw. As the infection worsens, you may have a fever, muscle spasms, trouble swallowing, or an irregular heartbeat. If you suspect that you have tetanus, see a doctor or go to the hospital as soon as possible so you can be given a dose of antitoxin to stop the spread of the infection. Once you recover, you can still get reinfected, so get the vaccine as soon as your symptoms disappear to reduce the chance of lockjaw returning. | Identify the early signs of tetanus. First, you'll feel a headache and a muscular stiffness in the jaw. It will be difficult to open and close your mouth. This is why the condition is commonly known as "lockjaw." Symptoms usually set in about eight days after infection, although the onset has been known to range from three days to three weeks. A shorter incubation period signals a more heavily infected wound. Also, tetanus-infected wounds take longer to incubate when they are father from the central nervous system. Seek urgent treatment if you experience tetanus symptoms within fewer than eight days of exposure. On their own, a headache and a slightly stiff jaw should not terrify you. This could mean a lot of things. However, it wouldn't hurt to check with a doctor if you're worried. Watch for progressing symptoms. As tetanus worsens, you'll experience a stiff neck, and you'll have trouble swallowing. Other symptoms may include: Painful hardening of the abdominal muscles Spasms in the jaw, chest, and abdomen. These spasms can cause painful, hyper-extended back arching, or opisthotonos. Sweating and fever Irregular breathing and heartbeat Be aware of the complications. Advanced cases of tetanus can severely impair your breathing with spasms in your throat and vocal cords – and these spasms can cause fractures and muscle tears. Muscular stiffness may cause the spine and other long bones to fracture. You may experience high blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat. Untreated tetanus can cause pneumonia, blood clots in the lungs, and even a coma. Despite the innovations of modern treatment, 10-30% of tetanus patients die from the condition. The mortality rate is highest in unvaccinated people and people over 60 years old. Your chances might be better if you're vaccinated, you have a strong immune system, and you're relatively young. This does not mean that you shouldn't be worried! See a doctor. If you think you might have tetanus, admit yourself to a hospital as soon as possible. In most cases, you will need to be hospitalized to treat a tetanus infection – especially if it is severe. Get an immediate dose of antitoxin. If possible, get treated with a prophylactic dose of human tetanus immune globulin (TIG) (or equine antitoxin). This should begin to halt the spread of tetanus through your system. You do not need to wait for severe symptoms to seek treatment. If you have not been vaccinated and you think that you've been exposed to tetanus bacteria: consider getting the antitoxin. Ask your doctor about antibacterial drugs. Penicillin, chloramphenicol, and other antimicrobial agents are commonly used to treat tetanus. You may also be given drugs to stabilize your muscle spasms. Know what to do in a severe case. In very severe tetanus infections, drug treatment might be coupled with tissue debridement: the surgical removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue. You should only go this route if it is recommended by a licensed and trusted physician. Be absolutely certain that the infection has spread too far to treat otherwise. Get the vaccine once you recover. Be aware that even after you've recovered from tetanus, you can still get reinfected at any point. Get the vaccine as soon as possible after the symptoms disappear. This will reduce the risk of lockjaw coming back. Continue to re-up with booster shots every ten years (at least) to keep yourself protected. Know how tetanus spreads. The Clostridium tetani bacteria enter the body through cuts and broken skin. C. tetani lives in soil, dust, and animal feces. When these bacteria enter a deep flesh wound, the spores may produce a powerful toxin, tetanospasmin, which actively impairs your motor neurons – the nerves that control your muscles. There is an incubation period of 3-21 days before symptoms begin to appear. The incubation period varies according to the distance the infected wound is from the central nervous system. For instance: an infected cut on the finger will have a longer incubation period than a cut on the neck. Be quick to treat deep, penetrating wounds. The bigger and more severe the injury, the easier it will be for C. tetani to enter your body. Be careful when traveling. Tetanus infections occur all over the world. However, they are most common in hot, wet climates where the soil is rich with bacteria. Tetanus usually does not spread from one person to another. Nonetheless: be careful what you touch when you are walking around with an open cut or wound. If you are traveling in the developing world, you may not have access to the same caliber of tetanus treatment as you would in your home country. Get vaccinated. Ask your doctor about the "Dtap" booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis. You can usually prevent infection through proper immunization with the tetanus vaccine. This is how tetanus has been largely eradicated from the developed world. In the United States, nearly all modern cases of tetanus occur in adults who were not vaccinated as children, or who have not received a vaccination in the past ten years. | Identify the early signs of tetanus. Watch for progressing symptoms. Be aware of the complications. See a doctor. Get an immediate dose of antitoxin. Ask your doctor about antibacterial drugs. Know what to do in a severe case. Get the vaccine once you recover. Know how tetanus spreads. Be careful when traveling. Get vaccinated. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Tooth-Abscess | How to Treat a Tooth Abscess | To treat a tooth abscess, it's important to make an appointment with your dentist right away, since you'll probably need antibiotics to clear up the infection. If the abscess is serious, it may also need to be drained in order to heal properly. In the meantime, try rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water solution after each meal. You can also take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxyn to manage pain and fever associated with the infection. | Make an appointment with your dentist. If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, your first action should be to make an appointment with your dentist right away. Symptoms of a tooth abscess include fever, pain when chewing, a bad taste in the mouth, lingering bad breath, swollen neck glands, redness and swelling of the gums, discoloration of the tooth, swelling of the upper or lower jaw, or an open, pus-filled sore on the side of the gum. A tooth abscess is not necessarily painful; a severe tooth infection will eventually kill the pulp inside the root of the tooth, at which point the tooth will lose sensation. This does not mean you are okay, now. The infection is still active, and if left untreated will cause further, serious damage. Depending on the type of bacteria involved in the infection and your immune system, an abscess can even cause facial deformities due to the constant accumulation of pus in the tissue. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Do this after meals to keep any particles from further irritating the abscess. It may also bring temporary pain relief to the area. Mix 1 tsp (5 g) of salt into 1 cup (250ml) of warm (not hot) water, and swish it around in your mouth to rinse, then spit out the water and repeat. Remember that a saltwater rinse can NOT cure a tooth abscess, even if it makes it feel better. You still must be seen by a dentist because the symptoms may be aggravated severely by an anaerobic infection, which expands quickly. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain and fever. Medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol,) naproxen (Aleve,) ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can help relieve your tooth pain while you wait for your appointment. Take medications only as directed, even if doing so does not completely alleviate your tooth pain. Note that these medications are also fever-reducers, and may mask a fever that the infection is causing. When using these medications, keep an eye out for any other symptoms that might indicate that the infection is worsening. Seek emergency medical treatment if severe symptoms become present. It is possible for a tooth infection to spread rapidly, and affect not only other teeth, but your entire body, as well. If you experience any of the following symptoms, go to an emergency room right away: visibly increased swelling of the abscess, the jaw, or the face, swelling that spreads across the face or down the neck, skin discoloration, fever, vertigo, lack of energy, eyesight problems, chills, nausea, vomiting, or increasing or intolerable pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications. Visit your dentist to have the abscess examined and drained. The dentist will most likely try to drain the abscess first by making a small incision, ideally after administering anesthesia around the painful area, and allowing the pus to flow out. Your dentist will then investigate further to determine what other treatment may be needed. Keep in mind that in some cases, anesthesia is not needed because patients may not feel any pain at all. Sometimes some of the pus has already come out through a small hole in the gum called a dental fistula. Get a root canal. Your dentist may recommend a root canal, performed in either her office, or by a specialist. During a root canal, a dentist will drill into the tooth and remove the diseased pulp, completely sterilize the entire canal of the tooth, and then fill and seal the tooth's inner chambers and cap the tooth using a filling, inlay or even a crown when there is not enough dental substance. Teeth that have undergone this procedure can, with proper care, remain intact for the rest of your life. Have the tooth pulled. In some cases, a root canal is not possible or feasible, and you will need to have the tooth pulled instead. A simple tooth extraction only takes a few minutes. The dentist will first numb the area with a local anesthetic, and then cut away any gum tissue that surrounds the tooth. She will then use forceps to grasp the tooth and rock it back and forth to loosen it, before finally pulling it out. Be sure to care for your tooth socket properly after an abscess. Your dentist will give you detailed after-care instructions, and it important you follow them all. These include: using gauze to control the blood loss in the first day, letting a blood clot form in the tooth socket, and keeping your mouth clean while the socket heals. Call your dentist immediately if you have problems, such as bleeding that won't stop, or if the pain does not subside after several days, or comes back. Take all antibiotics that are prescribed by your doctor. Antibiotics are a critical part of the treatment for an abscess, and are necessary to ensure that the infection is completely gone and does not come back. They can also help to prevent severe pain, such as from a dry socket. Remember that a tooth abscess is a serious, life-threatening condition. It is important get it treated properly. If you do not have dental insurance, try to find a free or reduced-cost dental clinic near you, and remember that any dentist should be able to simply pull your tooth for under $100. If the abscess is visible, meaning that you can see and touch a bump on your gums next to one of your teeth, then your dentist will not be able to pull the tooth out right away. You will need to take antibiotics for at least two days first to reduce the risk of bacteremia. Don't hesitate to go to the emergency room right away if you develop signs of major infection. They may not be able to fix your tooth, but the hospital is obligated to treat the infection, even if you don't have insurance. | Make an appointment with your dentist. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain and fever. Seek emergency medical treatment if severe symptoms become present. Visit your dentist to have the abscess examined and drained. Get a root canal. Have the tooth pulled. Take all antibiotics that are prescribed by your doctor. Remember that a tooth abscess is a serious, life-threatening condition. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Your-Air-Filter | How to Clean Your Air Filter | To clean your dry air filter, start by removing the filter from its housing and taking it out of the car. Then, vacuum the filter using the hose attachment to remove residue and dirt. Finally, wipe the filter with a dry cloth before returning it to the car. If you have an oil filter, spray it with mild soap and water after you've removed it from the car. When the cleaner has soaked in, put the filter under running water and rinse it clean. Allow the filter to air dry overnight, then re-oil it and return it to the car. | Locate the air filter. The dry air filter will be made of paper or cotton gauze. Dry air filters tend to get dirty faster but they are also easier to clean than oiled air filters. The dry air filter will be under the hood of your car, on top of the engine. The filter will be housed in a rectangular or round box. If you cannot locate the air filter under the hood, refer to the instructional manual that came with your car for this information. Take it out of the car. You may need to remove the lid of the housing to take out the filter. There may be wingnuts or clamps that you need to remove. Use a screwdriver to remove the wingnuts or remove the clamps with your fingers. Then, pull the filter out of the housing. Pull the filter out carefully as it will likely be covered in dirt and dust. Vacuum the filter. Hold the filter with one hand and use the hose attachment on the vacuum to remove dirt and dust. Run the vacuum over the filter to suck up all the residue on the filter. You can also do a quick vacuum of the filter housing to remove any dirt or dust. Wipe off the filter with a dry cloth. As a final clean, use a dry cloth to wipe the filter to remove any remaining dirt or dust. You can also wipe the inside of the filter housing with the cloth. Do not scrub or rub the filter. A simple wipe should be fine. Put the air filter back in the car. Once you are done cleaning the air filter, put it back in the housing. Make sure the air filter sits properly and securely in the housing. Then, replace the lid on the housing. Find the air filter. Oiled air filters are made of loose layers coated in a sticky oil. This allows the filter to catch any debris or dirt in the engine. The oiled air filter will be located under the hood of your car, on top of the engine. It will be housed in a rectangular or round box with a lid. If you're having a hard time locating the air filter, refer to your user's manual for the car. It should note where the air filter is located. Remove it from the car. You may need to unclamp the lid using your fingers or use a screwdriver to remove the wingnuts on the lid. Pull the air filter out carefully, being mindful of any dust or dirt on the filter. Spray the filter in cleaner. Look for a cleaner made for cleaning car parts or specially formulated for the air filter. You can also use mild soap and water to clean the filter. Spray the entire filter with the cleaner. Let it soak into the filter for 10 minutes. You can find cleaner for air filters online or at an auto body shop. Rinse the cleaner off. Once the cleaner has soaked into the filter, but has not dried completely, place the filter under running water at a low pressure. Rinse off the filter, allowing the water to loosen and remove any remaining debris on the filter. Let the air filter air dry. Shake off any excess water and let the air filter air dry on a clean towel. The air filter may need to dry overnight. Let it dry completely before you re oil it. Re oil the filter. After the air filter has dried, you will need to re oil it so it can work properly. Apply filter oil to the filter. Follow the estimated amount of oil for your filter type on the label. Let the filter oil absorb into the filter for five to ten minutes. You can find filter oil online or at your local autobody shop. Some cleaning kits for air filters come with filter oil. Place the filter back in the car. Slide the air filter back into the housing on top of the engine. Then, secure the clamps or the wingnuts on the lid. Clean the air filter regularly. Maintain the air filter in your car by cleaning it every 5,000 miles. You can also get in the habit of cleaning the air filter every time you do a big clean of your car or check under the hood. Keeping the air filter clean will ensure it works properly. Replace the air filter after 15,000 miles. Over time the air filter can become worn out and needs to be replaced. If the air filter has been in your car for 15,000 miles or more, it may need to be replaced. If you notice the air filter is not working properly, despite cleaning it, it may be time for a replacement. You can buy replacement car air filters online or at your local autobody shop. Have a professional check the air filter. If you are uncomfortable getting under the hood of the car, you may have a professional mechanic do this during a tune up of your car. The mechanic can inspect and clean the air filter for you, for a fee. | Locate the air filter. Take it out of the car. Vacuum the filter. Wipe off the filter with a dry cloth. Put the air filter back in the car. Find the air filter. Remove it from the car. Spray the filter in cleaner. Rinse the cleaner off. Let the air filter air dry. Re oil the filter. Place the filter back in the car. Clean the air filter regularly. Replace the air filter after 15,000 miles. Have a professional check the air filter. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Show-a-Shy-Boy-that-You-Like-Him | How to Show a Shy Boy that You Like Him | If you want a shy boy to know you like him, try to use subtle body language signals to get his attention, like smiling when he looks at you, brushing against his arm, or making eye contact when he's talking. You could also ask him for help with something, like a hard question on a math test, then flirt with him while he's helping you. If you're feeling brave, just go for it and tell him how you feel! If you're nervous about talking face-to-face, go through and "like" a few of his social media posts to let him know you're interested in what he has to say. | Use your body language. Using your body language to show him you like him means that you use subtle signals, such as facing him or touching his arm, that will hopefully catch his attention. Try to sit by him when you can, and when you're talking with him make sure that you have your whole body facing him. Don't cross your arms while you're talking as this creates a defensive position. Don't forget to smile when you're talking to him. Realize, though, that some boys won't really be paying enough attention to notice your body language. He may feel too nervous around you to be paying any attention to subtle signals. Compliment him. Giving him a compliment will show him that you are paying attention to him. You can think about things he is really good at, or something you really like about how he dresses and compliment that. Giving him a compliment every now and then may give him the confidence to tell you that he likes you. For example, you could say, “Hey! I just wanted to let you know that I think your outfit makes you look really nice today.” If he plays a sport, you can tell him how good he is at it, for example, “I saw your soccer game yesterday. That was a really awesome goal you scored!” Don't overdo it. A compliment every now and then is OK, but giving a compliment multiple times a day may make him feel uncomfortable. Make eye contact. A shy guy may be reluctant to look you in the face, but if you can, try to make eye contact with him. If you do catch his eye, flash a quick smile, and hold the eye contact for about 3 seconds. Then get on with whatever you were doing. If you are able to do this, he'll get at least an inkling of an idea that maybe you're into him. Making eye contact doesn't mean staring. If you make eye contact for too long he may get embarrassed. Engage him in conversation. It may be that you are only around this shy boy in front of his or your friends, so you may not get to spend much time talking to him. When you are together, try to focus your attention on talking to him without ignoring everyone else. Ask him questions about things he likes, or what he thought about a new movie that came out. Try to ask questions that will require more than a “yes” or “no” answer. For example, don't say, “Did you like the game on Friday?” instead say, “Tell me what you thought about the game on Friday.” If you are in a group don't ignore everyone, just casually try to engage him in conversation while everyone else is talking. If you are alone this will be easy. He may seem as though he has nothing to say, but if you keep coming up with new things to talk about he'll (hopefully) come out of his shell a bit. Flirt with him. One of the most common ways to show someone that you like them is to simply flirt with them. When most people think of flirting, they think of doing it in person, but if that seems to scary, you can also try flirting with him over text message, email, or chat. When flirting via text, use emojis. One of the most common emojis used when flirting is the winky face, which keeps things light and fun. Try to make a bit of physical contact when flirting in person. For example, if you are sitting next to each other you can subtly let your knee touch his knee, or you can brush some imaginary dirt off of his shoulder. When flirting, don't forget to smile! Flirting is supposed to be light and fun. If you are being very serious he probably won't think that you are flirting. Tease him just a little bit. With shy guys you definitely don't want to over-do this. However, teasing him just a little bit might show him that you are interested. When you tease him, be sure to smile and laugh, and maybe gently touch his arm to let him know that you aren't trying to be mean at all. Ask him to help you with something. Most boys like to be reminded of their masculinity. Getting him to help you with something may help him feel courageous enough to make a move. When asking him to help you, try to think of something that will make him feel tough. For example, ask him to lift something a bit heavy. Don't be unrealistic here, and make sure that you choose something he can actually lift. You could say something like, "Hey Josh, I'm trying to put these big heavy books back up on the shelf, but they're too heavy for me. I know you're strong, could you help me?" Decide how you’ll tell him. Telling a shy boy that you like him is tricky because, in a face-to-face encounter, he might get too embarrassed and react differently than he really wants to. You can tell him face-to-face, but make sure that you do it when you two are alone, and well out of sight of any of his or your friends. When you tell him, try to keep it casual. If you're not certain that he likes you, or you're afraid he will get embarrassed, you can make it light-hearted and easy. For example, instead of saying “I really like you, and I want to be your girlfriend,” you can say, “I was thinking that since we get along so well, and have so much fun together that maybe we should go to the dance together next Friday.” This will give him a way to agree that he likes you without actually having to say it out loud. If you are friends on social media, you can tell him via chat, you can tell him over email or text, or you can even just write him a letter. However, if you are worried that he maybe doesn't like you back, he might show what you have written to his friends. Hopefully he won't do this, but be aware that spilling your feelings in written form leaves a record of what you've said. Be sweet. When you tell him you like him, try to be friendly and sweet to him. Realize that for a shy boy, talking to a girl he likes is probably one of the scariest things in the world. He might react strangely to your confession, even if he does like you too. Try to be ready for this possibility, and if he does react weirdly, or says something defensive try to stay friendly. You can say something like, “OK, don't worry about it. I just wanted to see what you thought. Let me know if you want to talk about it more some time.” This has the added benefit that if he truly doesn't feel the same, then you have easily and gracefully left the conversation without embarrassing yourself too much. Being sweet and friendly may also encourage him to feel less afraid to talk to you. Be patient. If you tell him face-to-face, you'll get some sort of reaction right away, though the reaction he gives you may not be the one he meant to give you. If you write him a text or an email, you may not get any reaction at first. There are lots of reasons that he may not respond to you right away. On the other hand, if you wrote him weeks ago on social media, and you know he's seen your message, then he may just be afraid of hurting your feelings. Give him a few days to respond. He may need some time to think about what he wants to say, or he may just be really busy. Maybe he doesn't get on social media everyday or doesn't check his email often. If he hasn't responded after a week or two, consider taking him aside to ask him about it. Tell him it's no big deal if he's not interested, but you just wanted to make sure he got your message. Observe how he acts when you’re around and when you’re not around. Of course, it may be hard to find out how he acts when you're not there, but try to observe him from afar. If you see him across the lunch room, see how he is acting with his friends. Is he talking a lot or is he quiet? If he's very talkative around other people, but quiet around you, there's a good chance that he feels nervous about saying the wrong thing in front of you. If he is a quiet person all the time, it may be hard to tell this way. Look for other ways to know if he likes you too. Think about whether or not he seems nervous around you. When you're around does he avoid looking directly at you? Is he sweating? Is he defensive if someone teases him? If he is not normally like this, but seems to be when you're around he may be worried about doing or saying the wrong thing in front of you, especially if he is shy. If a boy likes you, he's more likely to seem as though he is nervous or anxious when you are around. If he isn't really in to you, he will be more stand-offish. Read his body language. A shy guy is likely to be fidgeting with his hair or his clothes when you are around or he may cross his arms in front of his chest. Shy boys are more likely to feel nervous around their crush, so they may seem defensive, when in fact they are actually very interested. You may find that your shy boy often tries to be around you, but not really near to you. For example, he may find excuses to hang out with your group of friends, but he'll always try to sit as far away from you as possible. Don't take this as a sign that he doesn't like you. Think about his social media behavior. If you are friends on social media, think about how he treats you. Did he find you and friend you? Is he constantly liking everything you post? If so, there's a pretty good chance he is interested in you, but hasn't gotten up the courage to do anything about it. You can also try to hint to him that you're interested by friending him (if you're not already friends), and showing appreciation for his posts by liking them or making a comment. Don't overdo it though! You don't need to like every single thing he posts, rather just a few to show him that you are paying attention. | Use your body language. Compliment him. Make eye contact. Engage him in conversation. Flirt with him. Ask him to help you with something. Decide how you’ll tell him. Be sweet. Be patient. Observe how he acts when you’re around and when you’re not around. Think about whether or not he seems nervous around you. Read his body language. Think about his social media behavior. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Overcome-an-Addiction | How to Overcome an Addiction | To overcome addiction, choose a specific date to quit in the near future to allow yourself time to mentally and physically prepare. Next, start building a support system by seeing a therapist, talking to friends and family, and seeking out support groups in your area. As your quit date approaches, identify your triggers and start tapering off your habit, since quitting cold turkey can be challenging and even dangerous. Remember to celebrate your accomplishments and forgive yourself if you slip up as you move into the next chapter of your life! | Write down the harmful effects of your addiction. It might not feel good to acknowledge all the ways in which your addiction is harming you, but seeing the list on paper will help you resolve to stop as soon as possible. Take out a pen and a piece of paper and brainstorm a list that includes all the negative effects you've experienced since your addiction started. Address why you became addicted in the first place. Ask yourself what it's preventing you from doing or what the addiction is doing for you. Think about how your addiction has affected your physical health. Are you at greater risk for getting cancer, heart disease, or another illness as a result of your addiction? Maybe the addiction has already taken a noticeable physical toll. List the ways in which it has hurt you mentally. Are you embarrassed about your addiction? In many cases addictions lead to shame and embarrassment, as well as depression, anxiety, and other mental and emotional issues. How has your addiction affected your relationships with other people? Does it prevent you from spending time with people you love or having enough time to pursue new relationships? Some addictions take a big financial toll. List the amount of money you have to spend feeding your addiction every day, week and month. Determine whether your addiction has affected your job. What daily annoyances are caused by your addiction? For example, if you're a smoker, maybe you're tired of having to leave your office every time you need to light up. Make a list of positive changes you want in your life. Now that you've detailed all the negative effects of your addiction, think about how much your life will improve once you've kicked the habit. Create a picture of your life post-addiction. How do you want it to look? Maybe you'll feel a sense of freedom you haven't had in years. You'll have more time to spend on people, hobbies, and other pleasures. You'll be able to save money again. You know you're doing everything you can to stay healthy. You'll feel immediate physical improvements. You'll feel proud and confident again. Write down your quitting commitment. Having a list of solid reasons to quit will help you stick to your plan in the long run. Your reasons for quitting must be more important to you than continuing your addictive behavior. This mental hurdle is tough, but it's a necessary first step to quitting any addiction. No one can make you quit but yourself. Write down the true, solid reasons you're stopping this habit. Only you know what they are. Here are a few examples: Decide you're quitting because you want to have the energy to live life to the fullest again. Decide you're quitting because you're running out of money to support your habit. Decide you're quitting because you want to be a better partner to your spouse. Decide you're quitting because you're determined to meet your grandchildren one day. Set a date to quit. Don't set it for tomorrow, unless you're pretty sure quitting cold turkey will work for you. Don't set it for more than a month from now, because you might lose your resolve by then. Aim for a date in the next couple of weeks. This will give you enough time to become mentally and physically prepared. Consider picking a date that's meaningful to you, to help motivate you. Your birthday, father's day, your daughter's graduation day, etc. Mark the day on your calendar and announce it to those close to you. Build it up so that you won't be likely to back down when the day arrives. Make a firm commitment to yourself that you're going to quit by that date. Take any medical or physical support you may need. Some addictions can be life-threatening if they're stopped incorrectly. Seek personal and professional support. It might not seem like it now, but you're going to need all the support you can get during your journey to overcome addiction. Because so many people battle addictions, there are many wonderful institutions in place that serve as support systems, helping you stay motivated, providing tips for success, and encouraging you to try again if you have a false start. If possible, consider finding a therapist or mental health professional in your area as they will be able to help you create the best treatment plan (like inpatient or outpatient care or continued therapy) and support network for your needs. Research in-person and online support groups designed to help people with the specific type of addiction you're battling. Many resources are free. If you want to wean yourself from a substance, you should seek the advice of a general practitioner first so you can understand and be prepared for any withdrawal symptoms. Make an appointment with a therapist skilled in helping people through addictions. Find someone you're comfortable with so you'll be able to rely on him or her in the months to come. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt techniques and life skills training are amongst the techniques that have been proven successful for those seeking to overcome addictions. A therapeutic setting ensures that you will have privacy and that the treatment will be based on your particular needs and goals. Seek support from your closest loved ones and friends. Let them know how much this means to you. If you're addicted to a substance, ask them not to use it in your presence. People who have long-term success with overcoming addictions often have a support group of family and friends who encourage them on a daily basis. Identify your triggers. Everyone has a certain set of triggers that make them automatically want to indulge their habits. For example, if you're struggling with an alcohol addiction, you might find it difficult to attend a certain restaurant without feeling a strong urge to drink. If you're addicted to gambling, passing a casino on the way home from work might make you feel compelled to stop. Knowing your triggers will help you face them down when the time comes to quit. Stress is often a trigger for all kinds of addictions. Certain situations, like parties or other social gatherings, might act as triggers. Certain individuals can be triggers. Start ramping down your addictive habit. Instead of quitting immediately, start by decreasing your use. For most people, this makes it easier to quit. Indulge less frequently, and gradually continue reducing it as your day to quit for good approaches. Get your environment ready. Remove reminders of your addiction from your home, car and workplace. Get rid of all the objects that goes along with the habit, as well as other items that remind you of the habit. Consider replacing the objects with items that help you feel positive and calm. Fill your refrigerator with wholesome food. Treat yourself to a few good books or DVDs (provided they don't contain content that could act as a trigger). Place candles and other aesthetically pleasing items around the house. You might want to try redecorating your bedroom, rearranging the furniture, or just buying a few new throw pillows. Changing your environment will give you the feeling of having a fresh start. Stop the addictive behavior as planned. When the big day arrives, keep your promise to yourself and quit. Those first few days are going to be hard. Keep yourself busy and stay positive. You're on your way to an addiction-free life. Fill your time. If you need distractions, try exercising, taking up a new hobby, cooking, or hanging out with friends. Joining a new club, sports team, or other kind of community group will help you make new friends and start a new chapter of your life in which addiction is not a part of. Positive social interactions can stimulate the release of neurochemicals which elicit feelings of happiness and satisfaction without the need for drugs. Exercise releases endorphin chemicals like the ones released in addiction, which is why sometimes you'll hear the term "runner's high". Exercise could open a lot more windows for new and improved health and could lessen the blow of withdrawal by giving you something else to feel good about. Keep clear of your triggers. Stay away from the people, places and things that make you want to go back to your old habits. You might need to construct a completely new routine for a while until the edge wears off a bit. Don't give in to rationalizations. The physical and mental pain of addiction withdrawal is real, and you'll likely start telling yourself it's okay to take up the habit again. Don't listen to the voice telling you to start back up and don't give up on yourself when it feels hard. Every bit of pain will be worth it in the end. Common rationalizations include the idea that "it's a free country" or "we all have to die sometime." Resist taking on this defeatist attitude. Go back to your list of reasons for quitting to remember why you're doing this. Think about why quitting is more important than staying addicted. Visit support groups and your therapist each time you feel in danger of relapsing. Don't let a relapse be the end of your journey. Everyone slips up from time to time. That doesn't mean you should give in and return to your addictive habits in a full-blown relapse. If you have a slip up, go back over what happened and determine what changes you can make if it happens again. Then get back on your feet and start again. Relapses are steps forward in the process and you shouldn't consider them as failures. It takes time for new habits to fully kick in. Keep a plan in place rather than giving up. Don't let guilt and shame take over if you slip up. You're trying your best, and all you can do is keep at it. Celebrate your accomplishments. Do something nice for yourself when you meet the goals you've made, no matter how small. Kicking an addiction is incredibly tough work, and you deserve to be rewarded. | Write down the harmful effects of your addiction. Make a list of positive changes you want in your life. Write down your quitting commitment. Set a date to quit. Seek personal and professional support. Identify your triggers. Start ramping down your addictive habit. Get your environment ready. Stop the addictive behavior as planned. Fill your time. Keep clear of your triggers. Don't give in to rationalizations. Don't let a relapse be the end of your journey. Celebrate your accomplishments. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-a-Love-Triangle | How to Deal with a Love Triangle | To deal with a love triangle, it can help to consider your options so you can make the best decision for your own happiness. Remember that you don't have to stay in a love triangle, but you also don't have to leave. You may not feel like you can leave the love triangle for a variety of reasons. Maybe you can't leave because of financial security, or maybe you feel like the victim in the situation. But whether you choose to leave or stay, it's still a choice that only you can make. You can always make the choice to move on from the relationship. While you may feel terrible when you do it, the pain won't last forever. | Examine your place in the love triangle. There are two primary forms of love triangle: the "rivalrous" and the "split object." In the rivalrous, you are one of two people competing for the exclusive love of the third person. In the split object, you are the person whose affection is divided between two lovers. Split-object relationships can also be imaginary. This occurs when someone imagines that they're in love with a romantic partner they've never met, or idealizes a relationship from their past. You may not have initially chosen your role in the rivalrous love triangle. You may instead consider yourself a victim of another person's adultery. While this may have initially been true, if you've decided to try to stay within the relationship, you are actively choosing a role. It will help you to be honest about this. Discuss what happened. While talking about or hearing about a love triangle is difficult, it is important to be open and honest. Do all three people know about the triangle? While being honest about a love triangle may be difficult, it is ultimately recommended by most experts. Lack of honesty within a relationship can be corrosive and damaging to everyone in the triangle, including yourself. Consider the purpose the love triangle serves in your life. All chosen relationships serve some purpose in your life, even if it's not a healthy purpose. It's important to determine the purpose of your participation. Does your love triangle give you the attention you desire or distract your from your life choices or other relationships? Professional counseling may help you better understand the way a love triangle is serving your psychological needs. Choosing to continue a split object love triangle can provide the illusion of security, that you won't be left alone. However, sometimes a split object love triangle allows a person to fulfill more of their sexual or emotional identity than is possible with only one person. Only you can truly know the difference. Choosing to continue a rivalrous triangle prevents you from developing more genuine intimacy. A rivalrous triangle thrives on interpersonal drama, rather than trust. Knowledge of a betrayal, or the act of betraying another person, may also generate unexpected sexual excitement. Of course, this won't always be the case, but people are psychologically complex. It's helpful to be as honest as possible about your role within the love triangle. Consider your options. Remember that you do not have to stay in a love triangle, but neither do you have to leave. You have options, and you have choices: you can act according to what you think will be best for you. If you aren't the one who initiated the love triangle, it can be difficult to not feel like a victim. However, to remain in the psychological position of a victim will ultimately cause more harm than good. Victims often think in terms of "shoulds" and "rights" - "It wasn't right that she flirted with him, when she knew we were married." "He should understand that I'm exhausted because of the kids and my work schedule!" While there may be some very good reasons for explaining what should have happened, and what actions might have been "right", love doesn't operate on objectively logical basis. It will help you to set these reasons aside while you make your own decisions about how to live. You may not be able to leave for reasons of financial insecurity, cultural taboo, lack of social supports, or other reasons. However, if you can leave a love triangle, it's often easier to do so than to stay. You may choose to seek help in making this decision. Even someone who's left a relationship due to a love triangle may benefit from professional counseling. If you're the target of emotional, sexual or physical abuse as a result of the love triangle, this is called domestic violence. Seek help from a trusted friend, your health care provider, a crisis shelter, a counseling center, or the court system. If you are in danger, contact your local police. Take responsibility for your decision. It may be painful, but being in a love triangle does not make you a bad person. You may choose to stay in the love triangle. While unconventional, polyamory may be the option that works best for you, and that is fine. The important thing about remaining in a love triangle is that it's chosen by all three parties - but the same thing is true of two-person relationships as well! Consensual non-monogamy is a valid option. Whether you choose to leave or stay, remember that this is a choice you made, not one that's forced upon you. While finding yourself in a love triangle might not have been your choice, you have control over your response to it. Explore the reasons behind your feelings. Common emotional responses to being in a love triangle include confusion, guilt, division of love, constant pressure and loneliness. These are valid responses, and they don't make you a bad person. Feelings do not have to be justified. They are not right or wrong. Feelings can change over time, so before you decide to act on your feelings, take some time to consider the consequences of your actions. When the pain you feel upon trying to leave the love triangle is greater than the pain you feel for staying, you may take this to mean that this person is "the only one" for you. But that's not likely the case. Remember that the pain of leaving is not a reliable indication of true love. Your painful feelings might be based on fear of being alone, or memories of the relationship the way it used to be. Direct your emotions appropriately. It's easy to blame the third party, whether that person is the unassuming partner of your beloved, the interloper to an existing relationship, or even a faithful, monogamous spouse. However, it's likely that your anger is based in rationalization of your own actions. Your anger may also be covering up shame, guilt, confusion, and other hurt feelings. Write your feelings in a journal, where you are safe to explore your emotions without hurting another person. It's okay to cry, or to hit something soft, when your feelings are overwhelming. This doesn't mean that you're wrong, weak or bad. It just means you're human. You're allowed to take time apart from the person with whom you're angry. Sometimes a short walk around the block will suffice. Other times, you may need a weekend or more apart. Don't believe everything you think. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness are common among all parties involved in a love triangle. When these feelings arise, don't allow them to consume you. Instead, notice that they're present, and let them go. Remember that it's your actions that matter in dealing with a love triangle. Your feelings are likely to change, but your actions can impact yourself and others forever. A lot of anger comes from mourning events that have not yet come to pass. For example, thinking about lonely holidays yet to come, or being alone in old age, can be the source of much suffering. Remember that none of us can actually predict the future, and no matter what it looks like now, your life circumstances are still a work in progress. Explore the factors that contributed to the love triangle. The single largest predictor of affairs is opportunity, according to experts. If you don't want to participate in another love triangle, you may wish to look the factors that tend to encourage them. People whose work involves a great deal of travel away from home and family report higher levels of extramarital activity. Work-related travel often causes a person to miss their partner as and provides an opportunity to meet new people. Situations that reduce self-control, such as drinking or drug use, frequently increases the likeliness of participating in a love triangle. Move on from your relationship. While it is difficult to move on from a relationship, it is possible. You'll want to recognize that the relationship is over and while you will feel terrible, the hurt won't last forever. Don't prolong the pain by not accepting that your relationship is over. Focusing on the future by not ruminating on the past will help you to move forward. Seek counseling. Talking to someone about your problems can make you feel better. Therapists are professionally-trained listeners. Seeing one can help you get to the root of your problems, overcome emotional obstacles, and make positive changes. If you feel you may have an addiction to sexual relationships, consider joining a 12-step program or a mental health therapist to help you better understand your behavior. If you find yourself feeling violent as a result of a love triangle, immediately seek professional help from a therapist. | Examine your place in the love triangle. Discuss what happened. Consider the purpose the love triangle serves in your life. Consider your options. Take responsibility for your decision. Explore the reasons behind your feelings. Direct your emotions appropriately. Don't believe everything you think. Explore the factors that contributed to the love triangle. Move on from your relationship. Seek counseling. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fold-a-Traditional-Origami-Swan | How to Fold a Traditional Origami Swan | If you want to fold a traditional origami swan, fold a square piece of paper in half diagonally so it makes a triangle, then unfold the square again. Fold in 2 edges to meet at the center crease so that the paper makes a kite shape. Turn the paper over, then fold the sides of the kite shape into the middle crease again. Take the bottom point of the kite and fold it up to the top point, then fold a small portion of the thinnest point and fold 1-2 cm back down. Fold the paper in half again along the middle crease, then pull up the thinnest point of the triangle to unfold the swan. | Get a square piece of paper , turn it over so that the colored side is at the bottom. Fold the piece of paper in half diagonally, so that it looks like a triangle. Unfold your triangle so that it looks like a square again. Take the two edges across from the center crease and fold them to that crease. It should make a kite shape. Turn your paper over. Take the sides of your kite shape and fold those into the middle crease again. The kite should be thinner with triangular designs on one side. Without turning the paper over , take the bottom point of the kite (the thinnest part) and fold it up to the top point of your kite shape, with the thin point along the middle crease. Take the tip of the thin point and fold down a small portion of the point down, the portion should look like a triangle that is only about 1 or 2 centimeters (0.4 or 0.8 in) tall. The triangle formed by the previous step that was a triangle, should now look like a very tall trapezoid. Remember that middle crease at the very first step? Fold the crease in half again. Except with the design side on the top. Tightly holding the base of the triangle , pull up the thin point of the triangle to a desired height. It could be straight up, or at a sharp angle. Pull the little part out to resemble a beak. Decorate as desired. Finished. | Get a square piece of paper Fold the piece of paper in half Unfold your triangle Take the two edges across from the center crease Turn your paper over. Take the sides of your kite shape Without turning the paper over Take the tip of the thin point Remember that middle crease at the very first step? Tightly holding the base of the triangle Pull the little part out Decorate as desired. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Appeal-a-Medical-Bill | How to Appeal a Medical Bill | To appeal a medical bill, first call the office that sent you the bill and ask to speak to the billing department. Once you reach the person you need to talk to, tell them about the errors you found in your bill or ask them to clarify charges that are unclear. It's helpful to take some notes during this conversation, such as the name of the person you're talking to and what they tell you. After making this call, you should send a follow-up letter to the billing department to make sure your appeal is being addressed. In this letter you should include information from your phone conversation as well as the date of your bill and the billing identification number. | Review your bill. As soon as you receive a medical bill in the mail, it is important to review the bill for inaccuracies, such as being billed for a procedure that you did not receive or for excessive costs (discussed below). If the bill is for services that you received and the bill was not submitted to your insurance company, you should immediately submit the bill to your insurance company. If you received the bill because your insurance company refused payment, you need to review your insurance policy. If you do not have insurance, you should immediately request an itemized bill, as discussed below. Review your insurance policy. If you have insurance and your insurance refused to pay your medical bill, you need to review your policy to determine what your plan covers. Typically, an insurance company will notify you or the medical provider submitting the bill of the reason that coverage was denied. This information may be conveyed in the bill you received, in a letter from your insurance company, or you may need to contact the medical provider and ask what reason they received for the denial. You should then review your policy to see whether your medical treatment is covered by insurance. Check whether the bill is for a co-pay or a coinsurance amount that you are required to pay under your plan. For example, under some plans individuals are required to pay for a percentage of the total cost of the procedure. Determine whether you have a deductible that you must meet before the insurance company begins paying on claims. Some deductibles can be thousands of dollars and you would be required to pay that amount. Determine whether the physician or the procedure was excluded under your insurance policy. For example, some insurance companies will only cover treatment from in-network medical providers. If you see someone outside of the plan, you may be responsible for the entire cost of the treatment. Determine whether there was a mistake or an intentional refusal to pay. Once you have reviewed your policy, you should have a pretty good understanding of whether your medical treatment should have been covered by insurance. If you feel that you were improperly denied coverage, you need to determine if your coverage was denied because of a mistake, such as an incorrect billing code, or if the insurance company is intentionally denying your claim. In order to make this determination, you need additional information from your medical provider. Request an itemized statement. Generally, when you receive a bill from a hospital or medical provider, your bill will indicate the date of the procedure, the place of the treatment, and the medical provider. In order to challenge a medical bill, you need to request a bill that details every charge, individually. This will include charges for every medication your received, test that was run, and service that was provided. Medical providers are legally required to provide you this document. If the statement contains codes that you don't understand, call the billing office for the provider that sent the bill and ask for an explanation. You can often find the explanation for codes online by conducting a search for the billing code or abbreviation followed by “CPT.” Review the itemized statement for errors. Once you receive the statement and determine what each code means, you need to review the itemized bill for errors. Go through each item individually and highlight anything that looks suspicious. Some of the most common billing errors include: Double billing, which means you were charged twice for the same service or treatment. Typos in the billing codes or in the dollar amounts. A charge for a test, service or treatment that was ordered but never performed. Inflated charges for medications or supplies. A mistake in the amount of days you were at the hospital. Most hospitals charge for the day you were admitted but not for the day you were discharged. A mistake in billing you for a private room instead of a shared room. Research the cost of charges that seem excessive. If you came across costs that seemed very high, you should compare the cost of the service on your bill to other providers in your area. There are free websites that allow you to easily compare the cost of services. Healthcare Bluebook offers a free online cost estimator. Contact the place that sent you the bill. Once you have gathered your information, examined the detailed bill, and researched the excessive costs, you should call the office that sent you the bill. When you call the office, ask to speak to the billing office and tell the person that you have a question about your bill. Once you are on the phone with the billing office, explain that you are calling about a bill that you received. Confirm whether the bill was submitted to your insurance company, and if so, verify the reason that coverage was denied. Tell the person that you reviewed your itemized bill and have some questions about the charges. If you found mistakes, explain the mistakes that you found. If a charge was excessive, ask the person to explain the charge and explain why you think it is excessive. Most often, unless there was a simple coding mistake, the billing person will not be able to correct your problem immediately. If there was a coding problem, ask them to correct the problem and resubmit the bill to your insurance. If you do not have insurance, ask them to send you a corrected bill. Take good notes of all conversations. From the first phone call that you make about disputing the bill, you need to take detailed notes about: who you spoke to, including his or her name and contact information; what he or she said; and what, if anything, he or she was going to do next. Follow up with a letter. You want to follow up your conversation with a detailed letter that specifically states that you are disputing the bill. Your letter should also reference the conversation that you had with billing office, including the date of the call, the name of the person with whom you spoke, and any action that he or she was planning to take. You should fax the letter and mail it, return receipt requested, to the billing office that sent you the bill. By sending a letter, you ensure that if the bill is sent to collection, the bill must be noted as disputed. Your letter should include the following: Your name, address, and contact information. The date of the bill and any billing identification number. A detailed explanation of why you are disputing the bill. If you are disputing a billing error or code, set forth the specific code and the reason why it is incorrect. If you are challenging an excessive charge, explain what the cost of comparable services in the area. Detail any conversation that you have already had with the billing office. Be specific on how you want them to rectify the situation. Negotiate the amount you owe. If after reviewing your bill, researching the costs of comparable services and your insurance coverage, you feel that you may owe the medical provider a fee for services, you can try to negotiate for a lower cost. Sometimes medical providers will bill insurance companies at a higher range of the cost of care but are willing to accept less money for a patient. Most often, a doctor does not handle any of his or her own billing and therefore you should not be worried that negotiating the cost of services will impact the medical care that you receive. Speak with the billing office and explain your financial situation and that you are going to have to pay for the care out of pocket. Ask whether they would be willing to reduce the bill. Ask if you could pay your bill on a payment plan. Consider hiring a medical billing specialist. If you have a very large bill that you are unable to pay, you may want to consider hiring a medical billing advocate who will negotiate on your behalf with medical providers. These advocates will dispute the bill, raise any errors and negotiate for a lower fee. Generally, these advocates charge $35 to $200 an hour. Some advocates take a percentage of the amount that they save you in the bill. Decide whether to file an appeal. If after reviewing the itemized bill and speaking with the medical provider, you determine that charges were not for a billing or processing error but rather a refusal of payment by your insurance provider, you will need to appeal directly to your insurance provider to overturn their decision. You then have to determine whether you want to file an appeal. If you think that you have a strong argument to be made on why your insurance company should pay your claim, you can move forward with the appeal. If your policy clearly states that the procedure wasn't covered and you can't prove that the procedure was medically necessary, your time may be better spent negotiating directly with the medical provider for a reduced cost for services. Request a letter explaining why payment was denied. If you have not already received a letter from your insurance company explaining why it denied payment, you should contact the insurance company, ask them to review your case and request a written explanation of why coverage was denied. Even though you may already have this information from speaking with your doctor's office, you want to have written confirmation from your insurance provider. Examine the denial letter. The denial letter will explain the insurance company's specific reason for why coverage was denied and the provision in your policy that supports its determination. The letter may also indicate what information the insurance company may need to overturn its decision. Lastly, the letter should detail the insurance company's appeals and grievance process, including the date by which you need to submit your appeal and where and how to send your formal appeal. Talk with your medical provider's office to let them know you plan to appeal the denial. If you decide to move forward with the appeal, you should inform your medical provider. The medical provider is under no obligation to wait for the outcome of your appeal. He or she is entitled to be compensated for services rendered. You have three options on how to handle your outstanding bill. Delay paying the bill until the appeal has been decided. If you choose this option, you should ask your medical provider not to send the bill to collections. However, your doctor can choose to send the matter to collections. Establish a payment plan, where you are paying enough of the bill so that it isn't sent to collections. Pay your bill and seek reimbursement by your health plan if you win the appeal. Ask your plan for a copy of everything they used in their denial. If you decide to move forward with the appeal, request that the insurance company provide you with all of the information it relied on in making its denial. This will allow you to craft a stronger and more tailored appeal. Draft your appeal letter. Your appeal letter should be well organized, persuasive and fact based. You want to specifically address the reasons why your claim was denied and provide specific reasons and evidence why the insurance company was incorrect. You want to make sure that you submit your appeal by the deadline and in the manner that the company established for appeals. Specifically, your letter should include: Your name, address, and contact information. The letter should be addressed to the specific person or department that handles appeals and the correct address. Provide specific information from your plan that supports why the insurance company should overturn its decision. Identify your plan, insurance number, and the your insurance claim number, if you were assigned one. Include a copy of your insurance card. A statement that identifies the decision that you are appealing. A description of where you are in the appeals process. A description of how you want the case to be resolved. An explanation of why you are appealing, including all relevant facts and supporting information. A courteous closing statement and your signature. Appeal until all appeals are exhausted. Generally, once you submit your appeal the insurance company will indicate how long it takes to review and respond. If they deny your appeal, ask whether there is another level of appeal and what additional information that they require. You should exercise all of your appeals options until the insurance company either pays your bill or there are no other appeals options left. Consider filing a lawsuit. Once you have exhausted all of your appeals, your last option is to file a lawsuit against the insurance company. There are two types of claims that people make against insurance providers. The first is for breach of contract where you try to prove that the company did not follow the terms of your policy. The second, and more difficult claim, is to file a lawsuit alleging that the insurance company acted in bad faith. A dispute or disagreement over coverage will not typically support a bad faith claim. If you intend to file a lawsuit, you should speak with an attorney. | Review your bill. Review your insurance policy. Determine whether there was a mistake or an intentional refusal to pay. Request an itemized statement. Review the itemized statement for errors. Research the cost of charges that seem excessive. Contact the place that sent you the bill. Take good notes of all conversations. Follow up with a letter. Negotiate the amount you owe. Consider hiring a medical billing specialist. Decide whether to file an appeal. Request a letter explaining why payment was denied. Examine the denial letter. Talk with your medical provider's office to let them know you plan to appeal the denial. Ask your plan for a copy of everything they used in their denial. Draft your appeal letter. Appeal until all appeals are exhausted. Consider filing a lawsuit. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-a-Used-Shipping-Container | How to Buy a Used Shipping Container | If you want to buy a used shipping container, search online to find used shipping containers for sale. It's useful to know what type of shipping container you would like and what your budget is before you start shopping. If you find multiple units for sale, make a spreadsheet to compare the containers to help you decide which one you want. Call the seller and, if possible, view the container in person before making your final decision. | Ensure you can store the shipping container on your property. If you live in a city, you'll likely need a permit from the housing authority to keep the shipping container on personal or business properties. If your home or office is in a highly-trafficked area or residential location, ask your city, county, or neighborhood association about getting a permit. If you live on an agricultural property or somewhere that does not get a lot of traffic, you likely don't need a permit. Pick between a “Standard” and “High Cube” shipping container. “Standard” containers are usually 8 ft 6 inch (2.59m) tall, while “High Cube” containers are 9 feet (2.7 m) 6 in (2.90m) tall. High Cube containers are slightly more expensive, but they seem a bit more roomy since you have an extra foot of space. You can make your decision based on personal preference and sizing requirements. These are the most common sizing options, though custom containers are available for additional costs. Choose a unit that is between 6 ft (1.83m) and 40 ft (12.2m) long. You can find used shipping containers in a wide variety of sizes, though 20 ft (6.1m) or 40 ft (12.2m) units are the most common for personal or business spaces. Make your decision based off of the size of your space and how big of a space you'd like. Sometimes you can find extra-wide containers, which measure up to 48 feet (14.6m) in length. For example, you can choose a standard 40 ft (6.1m) shipping container for a comfortable home option for 2 or so people. Select an “A-grade” container if you want a nearly-new option. “A” grade shipping containers are in the best condition, and their price tag is usually a little higher as a result. These containers may only be used once or a few times to be considered “used.” Select this option if price is not an option and you want the best looking shipping container. ”A-grade” containers often have a fresh paint job, no or minimal dents, and ultimate waterproofing protection. Choose a “B-grade” container if you don’t mind a few dings and dents. “B-grade” shipping units likely have been used several times but are still in great shape. These may have a few cosmetic imperfections but otherwise are completely weatherproof and durable. This is a great option if you want a sturdy container but don't want to break the bank. ”B-grade” containers may have a few dents on the outside and minor rusting in some spots. Opt for a “C-grade” container for an economical option. “C-grade” shipping containers are the cheapest option, but they may not be in the best of shape. These containers may not be completely waterproof and have many exterior imperfections. If you choose a “C-grade” unit, you may have to do some work on it to make it an office space or home. These containers may work better as a storage solution. However, make sure any holes are covered, as water could get inside and ruin your items. Decide on your container type based on what features you desire. Choose features such as 1 door, double doors, windows, flooring, air conditioning, heating, shelving, internal locking system, and/or outdoor locking options. Since you are buying used, you may not be able to get every feature on your list, but this can help steer you in the direction of the best unit. For example, you can search for “A-grade” storage units that have double doors, air conditioning, and flooring. However, you may only find a used “A-grade” container with double doors and air conditioning. In this case, you'll have to do the flooring yourself. Search online for used shipping containers for sale. This is the easiest way to find a used shipping container for sale. Look up keywords like, “Used shipping container near me,” and browse units for sale. You can find shipping containers for sale through container companies or individual people. It's helpful to have a budget in mind when you shop so you can narrow down your options. When browsing options, keep in mind your location in proximity to the container. You'll have to factor in cost to transport the unit as well. If it's more than a few miles away, it could cost a lot. Make a spreadsheet if you want to easily compare units. While this is not required, it can be really helpful when browsing lots of shipping containers. Use a program such as Excel to keep track of the shipping containers you are interested in. Make a column for the height, length, cost, features, distance, and seller information. Then, plug in your information as you search for options. For instance, you can write “Standard, 40 ft (12.2 m), $3,700 (£2845.56), 5 mi away, Craigslist. Call the seller when you find a container you like. After you narrow down your options, dial the contact number listed online, and ask if the unit is still available. If it is, set up a time to come look at the shipping container. Pick a time that works with both of your schedules, and be prepared to buy the shipping container that day. When you call, you can say something like, “Hi there, I'm interested in the “B-grade” shipping container advertised on your website. Is it still available?” Meet with the seller to inspect the container’s condition. When you meet the seller to see the unit, be sure to do a thorough inspection of the shipping container. This way, you can ensure it is exactly as described online and there aren't any dealbreakers. Go around the outside and inside of the shipping container looking for imperfections or inconsistencies. Check door seals and handles to make sure they are well intact. To check this, open the door completely and shut the door securely. You want the door to completely seal without letting any air in. If you have any problems doing this, the lining of the seal may be messed up and need repair. This is especially important if you want to convert the container into a home or office space. This may not be a dealbreaker for you, but it's something to consider when totaling your expenses. You can also open and close the door from the inside to ensure it seals right from both directions. Look for any surface rust around the container. Do a surface inspection around the entirety of the container, and in particular, check for rust around the door frame and top of the unit, as this is where water may be able to get in. Rusty spots often signal weak metal, which can result in holes over time. Choose a shipping container with minimal rust if you can. If you want your unit to be as waterproof as possible, choose a unit with little rust. Inspect the inside of your shipping container for any signs of light. Go inside the shipping container and close the door behind you. Look around all of the walls and along the ceiling for any sign of light peeking through. Light can only get through from a hole in the container, and if light can get through, so can water. If you find substantial holes in the unit, you'll have to patch them before you convert the container. If there are a few small holes, that's an easy fix with some putty or caulking. If you find many holes or a few large spots, you may want to reconsider this storage unit. Negotiate the price of the shipping container with the seller. Oftentimes, sellers need to get rid of space quickly to prevent old shipping containers from piling up. As a result, you can usually talk them down in price to take the container off their hands, based on the imperfections you find. If they won't budge in price, ask for free delivery instead, if you are buying from a company. For instance, ask the seller if they'll take the container for $200 (£153.81) less than the asking price due to the exterior rust. Purchase your shipping container from the company or individual seller. Once you've agreed upon price, pay with either cash or card, depending on the seller's preference. If you are buying from a company, they likely accept either method. If you're buying from an individual, they'll likely prefer cash. Arrange for delivery with the company if possible. After you handle payment, it's time to bring your unit home! If you're buying from a company, they likely have a delivery service available, and they can go over the next steps with you after you check out. You may have to pay a delivery fee in addition to the cost of the unit. Find a delivery company online if buying from a private seller. To find a delivery company, search online for something like “storage unit delivery service near me,” and browse your options. Call the companies you're interested in and ask for a pricing quote, based off of your location and the size of the unit. Then, schedule a time and date for the delivery based on your schedule. Some companies will give you various price quotes. You can go with the quote that best fits into your budget. | Ensure you can store the shipping container on your property. Pick between a “Standard” and “High Cube” shipping container. Choose a unit that is between 6 ft (1.83m) and 40 ft (12.2m) long. Select an “A-grade” container if you want a nearly-new option. Choose a “B-grade” container if you don’t mind a few dings and dents. Opt for a “C-grade” container for an economical option. Decide on your container type based on what features you desire. Search online for used shipping containers for sale. Make a spreadsheet if you want to easily compare units. Call the seller when you find a container you like. Meet with the seller to inspect the container’s condition. Check door seals and handles to make sure they are well intact. Look for any surface rust around the container. Inspect the inside of your shipping container for any signs of light. Negotiate the price of the shipping container with the seller. Purchase your shipping container from the company or individual seller. Arrange for delivery with the company if possible. Find a delivery company online if buying from a private seller. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Thong | How to Make a Thong | To make a thong, start by measuring the circumference of your waist and the distance between your belly button and the top of your hips on your backside. Then, cut 2 pieces of lace fabric that are each half as long as the circumference of your waist. Next, cut 2 pieces that are each as long as the second measurement you took. Once you've cut out the pieces of fabric, pin the waistband and crotch pieces and use a needle and thread to sew the pieces together. | Measure yourself. Take a measuring tape and measure the circumference of your hips, or wherever you desire the thong to rest, to determine the length of the band for your thong. Gather your materials. Purchase lace trim that is as long as the measurements for the waistband and two times the measurements for the crotch. Depending on the width you desire for your thong, the lace should be about two inches wide. You will also need a piece of cotton fabric for the lining that is about three square inches. Make sure the cotton fabric is similar to the color of lace you choose. Cut your lace. You will divide your lace into four pieces, two for the band of your thong, and two for the crotch of your thong. Taking your hip measurements, divide by two, then cut the lace into two pieces for those measurements. Next, you'll cut your crotch piece by taking your crotch measurements and cutting two equal strips to be the length of the measurements. For example, if you measured 38 inches for your hips, you'll divide by two and you'll come out with 19 inches for each strip. Then if you measured 10 inches for your crotch piece, you'll just cut two 10 inch pieces of lace. Pin the waist band together. Before you begin sewing, you'll need to pin your lace together. First, pin your hip pieces together by laying one on top of the other and then place one pin vertically on each end. Pin your crotch pieces together. Lay your crotch pieces on top of each other, but instead of two vertical pins, you'll create a line of horizontal pins through the middle of the lace. Start at one end of your lace and place pins horizontally going across the fabric. As you start to reach the other end of your lace, begin pointing pins toward the bottom corner of your fabric, creating a down diagonal. Sew the waist band together. Using a sewing a machine, or a needle and thread if you are courageous, sew both pieces together. For the best stitch, you'll want to use a serger or a zigzag stitch. Taking the waistband, sew both ends together, allowing the stitch to hang over the lace, meaning you shouldn't have any extra fabric sticking out past the stitch. Sew the crotch piece together. This piece will be sewn a bit differently as you'll be sewing through the middle of your pieces rather than the end. Follow the pins that you placed through your thong, sewing through the middle and then down the diagonal towards the bottom corner. This will create a wider piece for the front of your thong that meets with the waistband. Line the seams up and sew. Taking your crotch piece, line up the wider side with one side of your waistband, both with the insides facing out and sew along the top of the crotch piece and the bottom of the waistband using a zigzag stitch. Then, do the same with other side of the crotch piece to the other end of your waistband. You should see a continuous seam, meaning you matched the seam of the crotch piece up with each seam on the waistband. Add a cotton lining. This isn't necessary, but it is good for hygiene purposes and comfort. Taking your cotton fabric, cut a piece that fits nicely inside the crotch of your thong, and sew along three sides of the fabric, leaving the highest side (the side that will be more in the front of the thong) open. Admire the finished product. After you've finished sewing, turn your thong right side out and try it on. Because the lace is stretchy you shouldn't have had to add any extra material. If you decide the bands are too thick or not thick enough, consider buying lace trim that is less than or more than two inches wide. Gather your materials. For this type of thong, you will need a piece of fabric about 10 inches by 12 inches that is somewhat stretchy. You'll also need some elastic for the waistband and leg holes in your thong. Pick a color you want to match your fabric because this elastic will show. If you find that elastic is uncomfortable, you can always try substituting it for some stretchy lace, although it may not attach quite as well to your underwear. Cut out a triangle pattern for your thong. Before you cut your fabric, you'll want to create a pattern for your thong that feels most comfortable to you. A good starting point is to cut a triangle out of a piece of paper with the two longest sides at 9 inches and the top, shortest side at 7.25 inches. Hold the triangle up to yourself and decide if it needs to be bigger or smaller, and then cut it to fit the dimensions you would like for your thong. When making your thong, the tip of the triangle should point down, so cut your fabric with that in mind. Cut your fabric triangle. Once you have decided on the dimensions for the pattern for your thong, lay the paper pattern over your fabric, trace a triangle onto your fabric, and then cut it out. If you are using a very stretchy fabric you can cut the exact dimensions of the pattern, but if your fabric has only a little stretch to it you may want to cut a slightly bigger piece so you have more fabric to work with. Cut three elastic pieces. You will need elastic for the waistband, the back of your thong, and for the two sides of your thong. The elastic for the sides should be one inch shorter than the side length of the triangle (you will stretch it as you sew) and the piece for the back should be about 8 inches, but you can adjust for your comfort. Measure your waist and cut elastic. Elastic for the waistband needs to be about one inch shorter than your hips or waist measurement, depending on where you plan to wear your thong. Use a measuring tape to measure waist or hips, and then cut a piece of elastic one inch less than that measurement. Depending on where you want your thong to sit will determine if you use your hip or waist measurements, and will also determine the length of your back elastic. If you want a higher thong, you'll need more back elastic and less elastic for your waistband, but if you want your thong to sit on your hips you'll likely need more elastic for the waistband and less for the back elastic. Pin elastic to the sides of your thong. Take your elastic and place it on top of your fabric at the edge, on the two longest sides of your thong (the sides that point downwards to make a V). Then, place a pin at the top of the side elastic and one at the bottom. You'll then want a pin in the middle of the fabric, so pull the fabric from both sides to stretch it out, and place a pin in the elastic towards the middle, while fabric is still stretched. When you let the fabric go your fabric may crumple up a bit, but once you sew the elastic into it and put it on, it will stretch to fit. Sew elastic to sides. Once you have finished pinning, using a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch, sew along the elastic, pulling and stretching the fabric as you go so that it lines up evenly. Connect the back elastic. After you have sewn the elastic to the sides of your fabric, you'll want to connect your back elastic to the front of the thong by attaching one end of the back elastic to the bottom point of your triangle, and sewing a small seam, making sure the elastic is in the back of the fabric. Attach the waistband to the back and sew. Before you sew your waistband to your thong, you'll want to sew the ends together, making a nice circle with your waistband. Then, sew the loose end of the back elastic to the waistband, making sure the back elastic is inside the waistband. Line up your waistband and triangle. Fold the waistband in half, with the back elastic resting on the fold of the waistband. The opposite fold will be the center of your thong -- place a pin there. Then, take the center of the top of your triangle and line it up with that pin, connecting it with another pin. Your elastic waistband should be on top of your triangle fabric, to match the sides of the triangle. Sew the thong together. Sew along the elastic, connecting the waistband to the top of the triangle fabric and making sure to stretch the fabric as you go. Then, cut any extra threads and try your thong on, admiring your finished product! | Measure yourself. Gather your materials. Cut your lace. Pin the waist band together. Pin your crotch pieces together. Sew the waist band together. Sew the crotch piece together. Line the seams up and sew. Add a cotton lining. Admire the finished product. Gather your materials. Cut out a triangle pattern for your thong. Cut your fabric triangle. Cut three elastic pieces. Measure your waist and cut elastic. Pin elastic to the sides of your thong. Sew elastic to sides. Connect the back elastic. Attach the waistband to the back and sew. Line up your waistband and triangle. Sew the thong together. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Croup | How to Treat Croup | To treat croup, try to keep your child as calm as possible by cuddling them, singing a lullaby, or reading to them, since agitation will make it harder for them to breathe. Additionally, you can help ease their cough by using a cool-mist humidifier or sitting with your child by a steamy shower. Make sure your child stays as hydrated and rested as possible, and consider using over the counter medications to help with their fever. However, avoid cough medicine and decongestants, which do not help symptoms of croup. | Try to keep your child calm. Croup makes it harder for your child to breathe due to an inflamed airway. If your child is overly-excited or crying, this will make the symptoms worse, and it will become even harder for them to breathe. Attempt to keep your child as calm and still as possible. Try holding and cuddling your child if they are upset. If it helps, try singing a lullaby, reading a favorite book, or watching a soothing film. The goal is to keep them as peaceful as is possible when they feel poorly. Try giving your child a favorite toy and encouraging them to play gently with it. Or, attempt to play a quiet game with your child to keep them still and calm. Use a humidifier to moisten the air. Many parents and doctors claim that moistening dry air will reduce a child's cough and make it easier for them to breathe. A cool-mist humidifier will add moisture to dry air and may reduce your child's symptoms. Before putting the child to bed, run a hot shower and sit in the bathroom with your child for 10 minutes; the steamy air may soothe their cough. Use cool air to treat stridor. Stridor is a raspy, tight sound that occurs when your child inhales. Many parents have discovered that cool air can help alleviate stridor. If the weather is decent, take your child outside for a short time. If your child enjoys the car, them for a short ride with the windows down. They will get the cool, fresh air, and the car ride may soothe them. Hold your child in an upright position. When your child lays down, it is harder for them to breathe; holding them in an upright position may ease their respiration. Hold your child on your lap and keep them seated upright. If your child is not an infant, use pillows to prop them up as they sleep. However, this is not safe for infants as the pillow can pose a suffocation risk. Try placing babies in an infant seat to see if this helps their breathing. Encourage your child to rest as much as possible. This may be difficult when they are not feeling well, but sleep and rest is essential to healing. Read to the child or let them watch tv or movies. You can also play soothing music, use a white-noise machine, or rock them to help them fall asleep. If your child is having a really hard time sleeping, encourage them to rest as much as possible while they are awake. Try to keep them still to prevent them from overexerting themselves. Consider sleeping in the same room as your child. It might make them feel better to have you close, and you will also be able to monitor their breathing to ensure it doesn't worsen. Give plenty of fluids to your child. It is crucial to keep your child hydrated, and warm, clear fluids may help to loosen any mucus that is stuck in your child's throat. Warm, clear fluids, like tea and broth are best. For babies, water, breast milk, or formula is best. Consult their pediatrician for tips to ensure they don't get dehydrated, which can happen rather quickly. You can also give your child a frozen fruit pop, but keep in mind it doesn't have enough liquid to be considered a “fluid.” Try over-the-counter medications to help reduce a fever. These may also help if your child has other pains such as a headache or sore throat. Pain-killers and fever reducers may help your child to feel more comfortable. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) or children's ibuprofen (if your child is over 6 months old). Make sure to follow the dosing instructions, and buy products that are designed for your child's age. Do not give aspirin to children under 12, as this can cause a rare but potentially fatal disease called Reye syndrome. Skip the cough medicines or decongestants. These will not help to ease the symptoms of croup and can cause serious side-effects. Cold medicines should also be avoided in children who are under the age of 2. Visit a doctor if the symptoms lasts longer than 48 hours. Most cases of croup are able to be treated at home, but if your child is still sick after 48 hours, has a stridor, or if their symptoms worsen, call your doctor. Most cases of croup are caused by a virus, so antibiotics will not be effective. However, your doctor may be able to prescribe medicines to ease your child's breathing and treat their symptoms. Ask whether a steroid (glucocorticoid) would be beneficial for your child. These steroids help to reduce inflammation in the airways and make it easier to breathe. Inquire if a nebulizer treatment (breathing treatment) would be beneficial. A nebulizer vaporizes the medicine which the child then breathes in through a mask. This is a common treatment for children with croup. Ask your doctor if blood tests or x-rays are necessary. These tests would help to confirm the diagnosis of croup and to make sure your child doesn't have another illness with similar symptoms. These are rarely necessary, but if your child's condition is worsening, discuss these tests with your doctor. Usually, using steroids or other medications to ease breathing and treat the cough is sufficient to help your child begin to feel better. Croup will usually resolve on its own, so treating the symptoms is enough. However, blood tests and x-rays are an option if your child does not seem to be getting better. Know when to seek immediate medical attention. If your child is dehydrated or has very labored breathing, they need immediate medical help. Signs of dehydration include reduced urination, few or no tears when crying, a dry or sticky mouth, or sunken eyes. If your child has these signs, or if they are having extreme difficulty breathing, take them to the emergency room or call for paramedics. Seek immediate medical attention if your child has bluish tinges to lips or fingernails, cannot swallow due to a swollen throat, or if they show signs of retraction (their neck or chest muscles pull in when they breathe). | Try to keep your child calm. Use a humidifier to moisten the air. Use cool air to treat stridor. Hold your child in an upright position. Encourage your child to rest as much as possible. Give plenty of fluids to your child. Try over-the-counter medications to help reduce a fever. Skip the cough medicines or decongestants. Visit a doctor if the symptoms lasts longer than 48 hours. Ask your doctor if blood tests or x-rays are necessary. Know when to seek immediate medical attention. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Leg-Cramps-at-Night | How to Get Rid of Leg Cramps at Night | If you get leg cramps at night, try getting rid of them with gentle stretching. One stretch you can do is to sit with your cramped leg extended out and the other bent. Wrap a towel around the ball of your foot with your cramped leg and pull both ends towards you. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds and repeat it 3 times. Another stretch is to place your hands against a wall and take a step forward with your non-cramping leg so that your cramping leg is straight out behind you. While keeping the foot of your extended leg flat on the floor, slowly lean forward and hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. If you need more help managing your leg cramps, you should consult your doctor for their advice. | Use a towel to stretch your calf muscles. Sit with your cramped leg out in front of you and wrap a towel around the ball of your foot. Grab both ends of the towel and pull it towards yourself so that you feel a stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times. This stretch works by compressing the leg and effectively massaging it. Be careful not to overstretch and cause greater injury to your leg. Stop stretching if you start to feel pain in your calf. Lean forward in a sitting position to stretch your inner calf. In a sitting position, extend the leg that has the cramp in it and keep the other leg bent, then lean forward so that your knee approaches your chest. Take hold of the bottom of the toe from the extended leg and pull it toward your body as much as you can. If you're unable to completely perform this stretch, simply lean forward and stretch your hands towards your toes as far as you comfortably can. Lean against a wall to stretch out your calf. Lean forward and place your hands on a wall, then take a step forward with your non-cramping leg and extend the other leg straight out behind you. Keeping the toes and heel of your extended leg flat on the ground, slowly transfer your weight onto your bent leg until you feel the stretch in your cramping calf. Hold this stretch for 15-30 seconds. You should repeat this stretch until the cramp in your calf dissipates. You can also perform this stretch before you go to bed as a preventive measure to better ensure you don't get leg cramps during the night. Lie down and lift your legs to stretch your hamstrings. Lie flat on your back and bend the knee in your non-cramping leg, so that your foot is flat on the floor. Then, extend and raise your cramping leg and pull it towards you while keeping it straight. Hold this stretch for 10-15 seconds. Make sure you pull your leg at the back of your thigh instead of at the knee to make sure you're adequately stretching your hamstring. If you can't completely extend your cramped leg as you raise, simply extend it as far as you comfortably can and until you start to feel a stretch. Avoid sleeping in tight bedsheets. Tight bedsheets or covers can cause you to unconsciously point your toes downward while sleeping, which can trigger calf cramps. Stick with looser bedsheets to minimize the chance of your feet getting stuck in 1 position for too long and causing cramps. You can also avoid distorting your toes by hanging your feet over the end of the bed when you sleep so that your toes are pointing down. Apply a hot compress to the cramped area of your leg. Applying heat to the cramped area can do a lot to loosen tight muscles and relieve pain. Use an electric heating pad, a warm towel, or even a warm water bottle wrapped in cloth to relax your muscles and ease your cramps. If you choose to use an electric heating pad, be sure not to fall asleep while it's on to avoid the risk of a fire starting. Make sure your heating pad has an automatic shutoff. You might also be able to use heat to relax away your cramps by taking a nice warm bath. n Make sure to check your leg for swelling before you do this. If your leg is swollen and you are also having pain and cramping, then you may have a blood clot, or deep vein thrombosis. In this case, seek medical attention and do not apply a heating pad. Make sure you’re wearing properly fitted shoes. Leg cramps can sometimes be caused by ill-fitting footwear, especially among people who have flat feet and other structural problems. To avoid leg cramps caused by footwear, be sure to only wear shoes that properly fit you and that are designed to compensate for any structural issues you have with your feet. You may need to get shoes specially fitted and made by a podiatrist. These will cost more than store-bought shoes, but they may help to stop your leg cramps. Sole inserts for shoes are unlikely to help. People who suffer from nighttime leg cramps should also avoid wearing high heels, as these shoes have been linked to leg cramps. Try drinking 8 fl oz (240 mL) of tonic water if stretches don’t help. Tonic water contains quinine, which some people have reported as helpful for nighttime leg cramps. However, quinine is not FDA approved for treating leg cramps, and tonic water only contains a small amount. The very small amount of quinine in tonic water is unlikely to cause any side effects. Increase your intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. There's some evidence that suggests nighttime leg cramps may be caused by nutrient deficiencies, especially low levels of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. This may be more of a problem for athletes. To avoid such deficiencies, make sure you are getting adequate amounts of these minerals from food or supplements. Good sources of these minerals may include milk, bananas, oranges, apricots, grapes, cabbage, broccoli, sweet potatoes, yogurt, and saltwater fish. Be aware that the research on the causal connection between mineral deficiencies and leg cramps has been mixed, so increasing your consumption of these minerals may not by itself alleviate your night leg cramps. It is best to follow a balanced diet to get adequate amounts rather than to change your diet drastically. If you don't want to take a magnesium supplement, try adding magnesium or Epsom salts to your bath water. Ask your doctor about taking magnesium supplements if you’re pregnant. Pregnant women are generally more susceptible to having leg cramps, especially during the second and third trimesters. Talk to your doctor if you're pregnant and experiencing leg cramps to determine whether taking magnesium supplements is right for you. Pregnant women are more likely to benefit from magnesium supplementation, which is critical to normal bodily function. For older or non-nursing adult women, studies show that magnesium supplements are far less conclusive. Be sure not to begin to take any supplement without your doctor's approval, especially if you are pregnant. Your doctor may determine that you can consume an adequate amount of magnesium simply by changing your diet. Consume at least 2.2 litres (0.58 US gal) of water a day to avoid dehydration. Dehydration can sometimes worsen leg cramps, so make sure to drink plenty of water each day. Women should aim to drink about 2.2 litres (0.58 US gal) a day, while men should drink about 3 litres (0.79 US gal) of water a day. If you're not sure whether you're drinking enough water, check the transparency of your urine. Clear urine signals adequate hydration, while yellowish urine or urinating infrequently signals less adequate hydration. Avoid drinking too much alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption robs the body of water, making the possibility for cramping that much worse. Ask your doctor if you should take calcium channel blockers. Calcium channel blockers keep calcium from entering various cells and blood vessel walls in the body. Though they are primarily used to treat high blood pressure, they can also be used to help with nighttime muscle cramps. You will need to take your blood pressure regularly if you take this medication. If your doctor feels you should be on calcium channel blockers, they will give you a prescription along with specific dosage information. The side effects of calcium channel blockers may include drowsiness, increased appetite, weight gain, and breathing difficulty (within the first few doses if you have an allergy to the medication). Note that people taking calcium channel blockers should not eat grapefruit, drink grapefruit juice, or consume alcohol while on the medication. Watch out for diuretics. Diuretics that are used to treat high blood pressure may also help get rid of excess water in the body. This unfortunately can result in dehydration, a common cause of night leg cramps. If you take one of these drugs and experience leg cramps at night, talk to your doctor about taking a diuretic. Recognize that some hypertension drugs may cause leg cramps. Thiazide diuretics, used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, may deplete key electrolytes in the body, paving the way for possible cramping. ACE-inhibitors may also cause an electrolyte imbalance and lead to muscle cramps. Talk to your doctor if you have an abnormal blood pressure reading while taking an anti-hypertensive medication. They may recommend changing the dose or taking you off of the medication. Consider swapping out statins and fibrates for other medicines. Used to control high cholesterol, statins and fibrates may interfere with muscle growth, causing a decrease in muscle energy. Ask your doctor whether it's prudent to swap statins and fibrates with vitamin B12, folic acid, and vitamin B6. This may be an option if your cholesterol is borderline rather than high. Tell your doctor if your leg cramps started just as you began taking a new medication. More often than not, they can find other medicines to treat high cholesterol. Ask your doctor if you may be able to control your cholesterol levels with diet. Also, make sure that you are only taking 1 medication if it is needed to control your cholesterol. Commonly prescribed statins include Lipitor, Lescol, and Crestor. Commonly prescribed fibrates include Bezalip, Lipidil, and Lopid. Consult your psychiatrist if you experience leg cramps while taking antipsychotics. Drugs that are used to treat depression, schizophrenia, and other mental conditions can induce fatigue, lethargy, and weakness, sometimes resulting in leg cramps. Talk to your doctor if you believe you may be experiencing leg cramps as a result of antipsychotics and see if you can be prescribed a different medication. This class of drugs includes Abilify, Thorazine, and Risperdal. Some antipsychotics can cause serious side effects. If you're experiencing muscle spasms and other impacts on your physical movement, such as twitching or difficulty walking, from antipsychotics, tell your doctor immediately. | Use a towel to stretch your calf muscles. Lean forward in a sitting position to stretch your inner calf. Lean against a wall to stretch out your calf. Lie down and lift your legs to stretch your hamstrings. Avoid sleeping in tight bedsheets. Apply a hot compress to the cramped area of your leg. Make sure you’re wearing properly fitted shoes. Try drinking 8 fl oz (240 mL) of tonic water if stretches don’t help. Increase your intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Ask your doctor about taking magnesium supplements if you’re pregnant. Consume at least 2.2 litres (0.58 US gal) of water a day to avoid dehydration. Ask your doctor if you should take calcium channel blockers. Watch out for diuretics. Recognize that some hypertension drugs may cause leg cramps. Consider swapping out statins and fibrates for other medicines. Consult your psychiatrist if you experience leg cramps while taking antipsychotics. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Protect-White-Shoes | How to Protect White Shoes | To protect your white shoes, try pre-treating them to prevent stains and cleaning them regularly so they look fresh. Spray a thin layer of stain repellant onto your shoes before wearing them. After the stain repellant is dry, repeat the process with water repellant to protect your shoes if they get wet. If your shoes are made from canvas or leather, rub off any dirt with a sponge or wipe. You'll need to use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to remove dirt from patent leather shoes. Try to avoid wearing white shoes on days that are damp or snowy, since grime and moisture can easily turn your shoes a much darker color. Store them out of direct sunlight, which can cause your shoes to look faded. | Choose a stain repellent formulated for your type of shoes. Before wearing your white shoes, you can apply a stain repellent to them to keep them clean. Shake the bottle, then spray a thin, even layer over the entire shoe. Repeat on the other shoe. Don't forget to spray the soles and laces too, if applicable. If your shoes are made out of leather or suede, purchase a leather stain repellant. If your shoes are made of canvas or mesh, most types of stain repellents will work, such as Scotchguard. Apply a water repellent to protect your shoes from rain and snow. Once the stain repellent has dried completely, you can use a water repellent to further protect your shoes. Shake the can or bottle, then spray the entire shoe in a thin, even layer. Repeat on the other shoe and let the product dry thoroughly before wearing them. If the stain repellent you used is also a water repellent, you can skip this step. Repeat the process every few weeks. Once applied, the stain and water repellent will only last for a few weeks. Make sure to reapply the repellants every few weeks to ensure your shoes stay stain-free. Avoid using the washing machine or dryer. Though you may be tempted to throw your dirty shoes in the washing machine, it's better to avoid this. You shouldn't attempt to dry them using the dryer, either. The heat and agitation of the machines can cause the material can break down and wear your shoes out faster. Use a cleaning eraser sponge on canvas or leather. If your shoes have dirt or grime on them, you can easily get rid of it. Simply rub the spot with a magic eraser sponge or wipe until it's completely removed. Try a little rubbing alcohol for patent leather shoes. For patent leather shoes, dip a cotton swab or clean cloth in rubbing alcohol. Then, use it to scrub and remove the stain. Wipe away any excess rubbing alcohol with a paper towel or cloth when you're done. Buff out stains on suede shoes with an emery board. If you have small stains or spots on your white suede shoes, don't panic! Just take an emery board (also called a nail file) and gently rub it back and forth over the stain. It'll be gone in no time. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and grime from suede shoes. Clean rubber shoes with dish soap and water. If your rain boots or rubber flip-flops are covered in mud or grime, it's easy to get them looking like new again. Just squirt a little dish soap into a bowl of water and dip a rag in the mixture. Wipe down the rubber with the rag, then rinse the shoes with plain water. Remove salt stains from any type of shoe with vinegar and water. Mix 1 part water with 1 part white vinegar in a small bowl. Dip a clean rag into the mixture, then use it to scrub the salt stains away. Wipe the shoes with a rag dampened with water, then soak up excess moisture by blotting them with a dry rag. Let your shoes air dry out of direct sunlight. While your shoes may dry faster outside on a sunny day, the heat and light can damage the fabric or material. Instead, you should let your shoes dry indoors. Stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb the excess moisture, if you wish. Avoid wearing white shoes on rainy days. If you know it's bound to rain or snow, choose a shoe that won't get dirty quite so easily. The moisture, grime, and salt can turn your shoes from white to dingy in no time. Save your white shoes for days when the weather is fair. Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes to absorb odors. When your shoes start to smell bad, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda directly onto the insole of the shoe. The baking soda will absorb moisture as well as odors. Just dump out the baking soda before you wear the shoes again. Store your shoes out of direct sunlight. Too much sun exposure can lead to discoloration and fading. When you're not wearing your white shoes, keep them inside. Store them in a cool, dry place, such as your closet. Polish leather shoes regularly. To keep your shoes looking their best, you can apply some white shoe polish after cleaning them. Dip a soft cloth in the polish, then apply it to the shoe in small, circular motions. Be sure to coat all the leather evenly, and allow the polish to dry completely before storing or wearing the shoes. | Choose a stain repellent formulated for your type of shoes. Apply a water repellent to protect your shoes from rain and snow. Repeat the process every few weeks. Avoid using the washing machine or dryer. Use a cleaning eraser sponge on canvas or leather. Try a little rubbing alcohol for patent leather shoes. Buff out stains on suede shoes with an emery board. Clean rubber shoes with dish soap and water. Remove salt stains from any type of shoe with vinegar and water. Let your shoes air dry out of direct sunlight. Avoid wearing white shoes on rainy days. Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes to absorb odors. Store your shoes out of direct sunlight. Polish leather shoes regularly. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Establish-an-Emergency-Contact-for-Your-Dog | How to Establish an Emergency Contact for Your Dog | To establish an emergency contact for your dog, choose someone who knows your dog well and has enough space in their home for your dog in case of an emergency. You should also consider whether they have any children or pets that might not be compatible with your dog. Once you've chosen someone, ask them to be your emergency contact, and draw up an informal pet protection agreement. The agreement should state that your emergency contact can legally assume responsibility of your pet in case of an emergency. Have both parties sign that agreement, and make a copy for both of you to have on file. | Make a list of suitable family and friends. Write a list of your trusted family, friends, and neighbors to see who might be willing to become your dog's emergency contact. Think carefully about who may be able to assist you. An emergency contact may have to enter your home if you are hospitalized, incapacitated, or unable to return home. Make sure that you trust them to do this. The person should be able to provide for all of your dog's needs. For example, if you have an energetic or high-energy breed, you may not want to choose someone who lives in an apartment. Instead, you may want to ask someone who lives in a house or has a fenced yard. You should exclude people who are allergic or afraid of dogs. If they have pets, make sure that your dog is compatible and friendly with them. If the potential emergency contact has or is expecting children, carefully consider if they will be able to suddenly assume responsibility for your dog as well. Consider whether your dog is good with young children, too. An emergency contact should already know your dog, and your dog should be comfortable around them. Do not choose someone if your dog acts nervous, aggressive, or shy around them. An emergency contact should live close enough that they can reach your home quickly in case of an emergency. Ask them to be your emergency contact. To ask, you should call or meet with your candidate. Tell them that you are trying to prepare in case of an emergency, and ask them if they would be willing to take in your dog. Emphasize that this in case of an emergency only. You can say, “I am trying to find an emergency contact for my dog in case something happens to me. I was wondering if you would be willing to do that. I'm not asking you to dog sit; this is really just to make sure that Fido is taken care of in case the worst happens.” You might also want to give them an idea of what taking care of your dog is like. You can say, “Fido is a very sweet and quiet dog, and he is house-trained. You would have to walk him twice a day though because he has a ton of energy.” Determine how much they are willing to help you. Your emergency contact may take in your dog for a few days if there is an accident, but they may not agree to adopt your dog long-term or in the event of your death. You should make sure you understand the circumstances that somebody is willing to take in your dog. You should ask: “How long would you be able to take my dog in for?” “If there was a natural disaster, do you think that you would be able to take in my dog? Or would you have to evacuate as well?” “If I died, do you think you would be able to adopt my dog permanently?” Consider having multiple contacts. Depending on the circumstance, you may want to have a few different options for emergency contacts. If one contact is unavailable, another may be able to help in their place. This will ensure that someone is able to care for your dog in case of an emergency. If someone takes in your dog but is suddenly unable to continue care for them, they can contact the other emergency contacts. When you choose your contact, you should let them know who else may be able to help. Locate safe havens in case of a natural disaster. If you are evacuated for any reason, you may not be able to take your pet with you, as many disaster shelters will not take pets, and your normal emergency contact may have to evacuate as well. In addition to finding a local emergency contact, you should find a friend or family member outside of your local area who can take in your pet. You should also look for emergency vets, kennels, and boarding facilities where you can take your dog. Find out in advance which hotels accept dogs, as you may be able to evacuate to one of these instead. Many shelters will fill up during a natural disaster or emergency. If you have advance warning, you should plan for your dog's evacuation early. Sign an agreement. A pet protection agreement is an informal, written document that states that your emergency contact is responsible for your pet if you are unable to care for them. Both you and your contact must sign it. This will help ensure that your contact is able to legally assume responsibility for your dog. While you do not need a lawyer for it, you may still want one to look over it for you. Getting the document notarized can help in case a dispute arises. It can make the document more legally binding. This agreement might state, "If there is a situation in which I am hospitalized, incapacitated or unable to return home, I designate John Doe to arrange for the feeding and care of my dog until I am able to return home again." Tell a trusted contact or two about the agreement. Store it somewhere safe but obvious in the event that you are unable to direct them to it. You both should have a copy of this agreement. Name a caretaker in your will. You can set provisions in your will to leave your pet to a designated caretaker, and you can even set aside money to that caretaker to provide for your dog after your death. Make sure you have talked about this extensively with your emergency contact before you do so; they should be fully committed to adopting your dog. You should then contact your lawyer about including the caretaker in your will. If you cannot find someone willing to adopt your dog after your death, you can name a charitable organization that will rehome your dog. This will ensure that your dog does not go to a kill-shelter after your death. Some states allow you to establish a trust that immediately provides money to a trustee for your dog's care in the event of your death. Talk to a lawyer to see if this is an option for you. Inform your vet. Once you have decided who your contact is, you should make sure that your vet knows. Call your vet, and tell them that you have established an emergency contact. Tell them that this person is responsible for your dog if something happens to you. This will help your vet continue caring for your dog in your absence. When telling your vet, you should say, "Hi, I just want to notify you that I have chosen an emergency contact for my dog. Her name is Mary Smith, and she lives at 123 Main Street. If anything happens to me, she can make medical decisions for my dog on my behalf. Thanks." Place a sticker on your window. Emergencies can occur when you are not home. To let emergency responders know that there is an animal in the home, you can place a sticker on your window. On this sticker, you should also write both your name and number and the contact information of the pet's emergency contact. You can buy the stickers online or at a pet store. The ASPCA provides free stickers through their website. Carry a note in your wallet. In case something happens to you, you can inform responders that you have a pet in need of care at your home. The best way to do this is to stick a note in your wallet that states your dog's name, any medications that they need, and the name of their emergency contact. Responders can reach the contact, and let them know that they should take your pet. Give the contact a key to your house. If there is an emergency and you cannot reach your home, your contact should be able to enter your house to take care of your pet. It is important that you give your contact your house key. If you have a security system installed, they should have the password to turn it off. Put together an emergency kit. To make things easy for your emergency contact, you should put together a kit that has everything your dog might need in an emergency. These items can be stored in a special toolbox, duffle bag, plastic storage crate, or trunk. Tell your contact where the kit is located so that they can grab it in an emergency. You should include: Medications A week's worth of food A bag of treats A week's worth of clean bottled water First-aid kit Copy of your dog's medical records An extra leash Write down instructions. You should make sure that there are written instructions for your contact so that they know exactly how to provide for your dog. You might want to include these written instructions in the emergency kit, or you can post it on your fridge. You might also consider giving your contact the instructions in advance, so that they are prepared if an emergency strikes. Be sure to include: How often and how much the dog eats How often they need to be walked When the dog needs to take medications Who their vet is Any medical problems How often they need to be groomed Where your dog's crate, carrier, bed, toys, and food/water bowl are located in the home. Check in with your contact. If the worst does happen, you should stay in touch with your emergency contact. As soon as you are able, call them to make sure that your dog is taken care of. You might even ask your contact to send you pictures or videos of your dog so that you can have peace of mind while you recover from the emergency. You may also want to make sure that the contact is updated on your situation. You can say, “I will be in the hospital for another week. Are you ok taking care of Max for that long?” If your contact is suddenly unable to take care of the dog, let them know where they can take your dog while you recover. This can be another emergency contact, a vet, or a boarding facility. Be sure to thank them for their help. | Make a list of suitable family and friends. Ask them to be your emergency contact. Determine how much they are willing to help you. Consider having multiple contacts. Locate safe havens in case of a natural disaster. Sign an agreement. Name a caretaker in your will. Inform your vet. Place a sticker on your window. Carry a note in your wallet. Give the contact a key to your house. Put together an emergency kit. Write down instructions. Check in with your contact. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Squid | How to Cook Squid | To cook squid, start by heating 1/2 a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Then, add chopped pieces of squid to the pan and let it cook for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds, add any seasonings you'd like to use and let the squid cook for 25 more seconds before removing it from the heat. If you want to make fried calamari, heat 1-2 cups of oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the squid in it for 2-3 minutes. | Know that whole squid are cheaper and tastier than pre-cut calamari. There are a lot of parts to a squid that are thrown out when a squid is pre-prepared. It may seem gross at first, but prepping a whole squid requires nothing but a sharp knife and a willingness to get your hands dirty. Pinch between the eyes and body and pull the head out of the mantle. This is probably the grossest part of the whole process, and you get it done first. Hold the squid firmly by the body, or mantle. Squeeze gently above the eyes and pull towards the tentacles so that you have two parts -- the head and tentacles and the mantle. This may get messy, so do it over the sink when possible. Chop the head off the tentacles by cutting beneath the eyes. Discard the eyes and head, keeping the tentacles for later. If you want to save the ink, which is great in stews or pasta, it is attached above the head and is a silvery sack with black liquid inside. Cut it away and drain the ink into a bowl to use later. Be sure to be careful in this step so you do not lose the ink or stain your clothes or furniture. Remove the beak from the tentacles by pinching it out from the center. The hard mouth of the squid sits in the middle of the tentacle cluster. Feel around for a small, seed like beak at the base of the tentacles. It can be popped out by squeezing out in the direction of the tentacles. Cut any extra long tentacles back so that they are all roughly even length and then set the tentacles aside-- they are ready to cook and serve. Pull off the two fins. You can trim them back with a knife as well, but pulling them off will weaken the skin, which you need to remove later. Pull back the fins (they look like wings on the body) then pinch them with your thumb and forefinger until have a good grip. You can then easily pull them off the body of the squid. Pull out the hard piece of cartilage, or quill from inside the body of the squid. You should be able to feel it easily in the mantle of the squid along the belly, and it will slide out easily. It may break inside the squid, so make sure to feel for any hard bits before you begin cooking. Use the back of your knife to squeeze any remaining viscera out of the squid body. Starting at the tip, use the back of your knife to push the remaining gunk out of the mantle. If you're feeling adventurous, it is often easier to just reach in with your hands or a spoon and simply scoop it all out. Remove the membrane. The membrane is the gel-like, purple skin covering the squid. Cut the tip off the mantle and use it to get some skin loose, then pull it away. If you are having trouble, scrape the blade of the knife at an angle along the skin, almost like you were gently whittling. Rinse the squid in cold water when you're done. Cut the mantle into your desired shape. If you want calamari, cut the mantle horizontally so that you have rings of squid. For most other servings, cut along one edge of the squid to open it up into a flat piece and then cut into squares. You can also score the fish for faster cooking. Make small slices halfway into the flesh with your knife at an angle so that the squid is ridged. Pat your rings of squid dry with a paper towel. Calamari requires thin rings of squid. If you start with the body of the squid, simply pat it dry and then cut horizontally across the body with a sharp knife -- turning the tube of seafood into 1/2" rings for cooking. 1 lb of fresh squid usually equals 1/2 lb of calamari, which is generally enough for one person. Consider soaking the rings in a buttermilk bath for tenderness and richer flavor. This will make a heavenly fried calamari, but you can skip the step if you don't have time. To make your own buttermilk mixture, if you don't have any handy: Mix 2 cups of milk with the juice of one large lemon. You can also add a dash of hot sauce too for flavor. Let the mixture sit for 4-5 minutes. You should see it thickening. Soak the calamari rings in the buttermilk mixture for 3-4 hours before moving on. When ready, remove the rings and drain any excess liquid. Mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper in a medium sized bowl. You can also add any other spices you desire, such as a teaspoon of paprika, chili powder, or cayenne. Whisk together well. Coat the rings of calamari in the flour mixture. Coat the rings so that each of them is completely covered in flower. You may need to work in small batches, and you'll likely need to add more flour if you start running out. Heat up 1/2" oil to medium-high heat on the stove top. You may need 1-2 cups of vegetable oil in order to have enough, as it should almost coat the rings when they cook. If you have a thermometer, get the oil up to 360℉. You can also use a deep-fryer set to 360℉. If you don't have a thermometer, wait until the oil is shimmering throughout. Cook the calamari in small batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the rings once as they cook, removing them when the flesh underneath the breading is no longer shiny or translucent. Make sure you don't crowd the pan, adding only enough pieces to fill the bottom without touching or overlapping. Adding too much will drastically lower the temperature of the oil, leading to greasy, unappealing calamari. If you want crispier calamari with a smoother inside, heat the oil to 400℉ and cook the squid for no more than a minute or a minute and a half. Pan fry cut squid with some seasonings for a quick, delicious meal or appetizer. Squid only needs to cook for 30-45 seconds, and it's tender, mild flavor works with a variety of spices. Start with cleaned tentacles and the body of the squid flattened and cut into 1-2" squares. Heat up 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a pan on medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot so that the squid cooks quickly. Leaving the meat in the oil for too long will make it tough and rubbery. Cook any aromatics in the oil for 1-2 minutes. Aromatics are simply small vegetables and herbs that soften under heat and are used in cuisines worldwide. Toss them in the hot oil and give them a few minutes to get tender before moving on. Some good ideas (listed per squid being cooked) include: 1-2 clove garlic, minced. 1/4 cup diced white onions. 1/3 cup diced chili peppers. Add a small batch of squid and cook for 30 seconds. You do not want to fill the pan, or you'll lower the temperature too fast and ruin the cooking process. Put enough pieces in so that they have room to move and stir frequently. If you have a large sauce-pan, 1 whole squid should be perfect. Add any seasonings and toss for another 10-25 seconds before removing. You only want the squid to cook until it is white and no longer translucent (partially see-through). Then, add your spices and mix everything up well before serving immediately. You can mix it into pasta or simply eat it as is. Try out: 1 tablespoons of soy sauce and a handful of chopped coriander A pinch of salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Salt, black pepper, and the squid's own ink. | Know that whole squid are cheaper and tastier than pre-cut calamari. Pinch between the eyes and body and pull the head out of the mantle. Chop the head off the tentacles by cutting beneath the eyes. Remove the beak from the tentacles by pinching it out from the center. Pull off the two fins. Pull out the hard piece of cartilage, or quill from inside the body of the squid. Use the back of your knife to squeeze any remaining viscera out of the squid body. Remove the membrane. Cut the mantle into your desired shape. Pat your rings of squid dry with a paper towel. Consider soaking the rings in a buttermilk bath for tenderness and richer flavor. Mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper in a medium sized bowl. Coat the rings of calamari in the flour mixture. Heat up 1/2" oil to medium-high heat on the stove top. Cook the calamari in small batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Pan fry cut squid with some seasonings for a quick, delicious meal or appetizer. Heat up 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a pan on medium-high heat. Cook any aromatics in the oil for 1-2 minutes. Add a small batch of squid and cook for 30 seconds. Add any seasonings and toss for another 10-25 seconds before removing. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Move-to-Germany | How to Move to Germany | To move to Germany, start by applying for the the right type of visa based on your reason for moving, such as work, study, or training. Additionally, make sure to apply for health insurance through Germany's Government Health Insurance system if you're not covered by your employer. You should also check online classifieds if you're planning on renting a place to live, or contact a real estate agent if you want to purchase a home. Then, plan your moving date and book your flight as far in advance as possible to ensure you get the best rates. | Obtain a valid passport. In order to do any international traveling, you'll need a passport from your country of citizenship. Processing time for a passport can take several weeks or even months, so be sure to start this process well in advance if you don't currently have a valid passport. To visit Germany, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your expected departure date. If your passport is expiring soon and you're planning to move there, consider renewing your passport now, especially if you intend to maintain the citizenship of your origin country. Determine what type of visa you need. Germany has a few different types of visas, and the one you need depends on factors such as your reasons for moving to Germany and your education. However, citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland do not need any sort of permits to visit, live, or work in Germany. For citizens of other countries, the different types of visas include: Work visas are for academics, doctors, engineers, mathematicians, IT specialists, and people in the life sciences. These people are entitled to the EU Blue Card, which is a work and residency permit. Job seekers' visas allow you entrance in to Germany for six months with the intention of finding employment. However, you must apply for the EU Blue Card in order to start working. Studying visas are for people who have been accepted to a German university or wish to attend one. Training visas are for training or vocational courses that will last at least two years. Internship visas are for internships with German companies, but these cannot last longer than one year. Research visas are for highly qualified professionals who wish to pursue work with a research facility. These visas can be extended for as long as the individual meets the requirements. Self-employment visas are for freelancers or people who want to start a manual trade or retail business in the country. Know if you need a Schengen visa. A Schengen visa is a special visa that's required for citizens of certain countries to enter the Schengen Area, a 26-member group of European nations to which Germany belongs. If you want to enter the Schengen Area and don't have your other visa in place yet, you will need a Schengen visa before you're allowed to enter the country. If you plan to move to Germany before getting your more permanent visa, a Schengen visa will allow you to stay in the country for 90 days and get your affairs in order. Citizens of the Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, and the U.S. do not need a Schengen visa to visit Germany for up to 90 days, and can apply for residency and work permits after arrival in Germany. If you don't have your work or other visa and are unsure of whether you need a Schengen visa to enter Germany, check the Schengen Visa Info website. Understand the different types of residency permits. If you want to move to Germany but aren't eligible for a visa that grants you temporary residency, or you want to extend your residency when your visa runs out, there are residency permits you may be eligible for. These include the: Residence permit, which generally now comes in the form of the electronic residence title (the elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel) Settlement permit, which can be applied for after five years of holding a residence permit. Family reunification permit, which is for people who want to live with a spouse or partner who's living in Germany. Asylum and refugee seekers permits, which require you to have a clean criminal record and means of supporting yourself. Get health insurance. To take up permanent or long-term temporary residence in Germany, you will have to get health insurance. If you are working, ask if your employer can set you up with it. Otherwise, contact a few insurance companies to see what kinds of rates they offer. Most people in Germany are with the Government Health Insurance System, but there are also private health insurance companies that offer more comprehensive care packages. However, premiums for private health insurance can range anywhere from $115 a month to over $1,000. If you get a job that has employee status, you will automatically be covered by Germany's statutory health insurance fund (Krankenkasse), as long as you make less than about $4,600 per month. Statutory health insurance guarantees medically necessary health benefits for all subscribers. Students in Germany are eligible for the Krankenkasse for a fee of about $65 a month, so if you're going to Germany for school, insurance will be much cheaper than if you had to get private insurance. If your partner is covered by Krankenkasse and you yourself have little income, you will be covered by your partner's benefits. For artists and writers, there is a separate organization you can join called the Künstlersozialkasse, and they will actually pay half your monthly health insurance contributions if you're accepted as a member. Find a job. Unless you are moving to Germany for a new job, a transfer, or for studying or training, you will need to find employment to support yourself, pay your bills, and cover your living expenses. It's important to understand the work culture in Germany, because while many work days are over at 4 p.m., there is a strong emphasis on efficiency. German salaries are among the highest in the world, but don't be surprised if you're taxed at a rate of 50 percent. If you're looking for a job after you've made the move, you can check local classified ads, check official job listings, walk around town to see if there are any vacancies being advertised, visit local job fairs, or go to a labor office (Arbeitsämter). If you haven't made the move and want to line up work for when you arrive, check the internet, newspapers and magazines, try a recruitment agency (Arbeitsvermittlung), or contact the chamber of commerce where you'll be living. Apply for a job. The manner of application will depend on the job, but you may be able to send your application by email. Along with your resume, prospective employers will also want to see: Copies of your certificates, degrees, or diplomas. Have the original documents available for inspection if required Proof of training or courses you've taken References A passport photo attached to your resume in the upper right corner Find somewhere to live. Before or after you move to Germany, you will have the option of purchasing or renting a home or apartment. When it comes to rentals and purchases in Germany, homes don't come furnished, so you will have to provide your own furnishings. Rentals in Germany can either be Kaltmiete (cold rent), meaning you have to pay for heat and utilities separately, or Warmmiete (warm rent), meaning heat and possibly some other utilities are included in the rent. To find a rental before or after you arrive, check online classifieds. Be sure to ask lots of questions and look at many photos before signing any sort of rental contract if you won't see the place in person first. Never pay any money or fees in advance of signing a lease. If you want to purchase a home once you're there, your best bet is to hire an estate agent to help you find a home, negotiate a sale on your behalf, and walk you through the purchase process. Locate a temporary residence in Germany if necessary. When you first arrive in Germany, you will need a place to stay if you weren't able to secure permanent housing before your trip. Depending on your situation, you may have several options available to you, including: Staying with friends or relatives. Staying in hotels, hostels, or Airbnbs while you get settled and look for a place to live. Setting up a temporary accommodation before you arrive. Plan your moving date. Moving to a new country requires a lot of planning, and there are many things you have to do before you can leave. If you're moving for a job or education, your moving date can coincide with your start date. If you're just moving for an adventure, you can decide how much time you want to give yourself to prepare. Things you'll have to get in order include: Getting all your paperwork and documentation Arranging a place to live Notifying your friends, family, employer, or landlord about your departure Booking your flight Determining what to do with your stuff Book your flight, organise your drive or arrange passage by sea. You can arrange your travel as soon as you have your moving date set. The sooner you arrange your travel the better, because you might be able to get better rates if you book in advance. Determine what to do with your property. If you own property in the country where you currently reside, you will have to decide what to do with it. The two major options are selling and keeping the property: Selling the property may take time, so you will want to start this process well in advance of your move. Keeping the property means you'll have somewhere to live if you ever move back, but in the meantime you will have to figure out what to do with the property. You can choose to leave it vacant (this may require extra insurance), you can rent it out to someone, or you can let friends or family live there. If you are currently renting a place, make sure you give your landlord the required notice before vacating and moving. Decide what to do with your possessions. Moving to a new country is a big step, and while you will require many of the same things there—such as furniture, kitchen accessories, and clothing—it may be more expensive to ship all your stuff there than it would be to buy new replacements once you arrive. If you are going to sell your stuff, consider having a garage sale to help fund the purchase of new household items for when you arrive in Germany. Be warned that you are better off buying new appliances in Germany, especially if you don't live in Europe already. The voltage in Germany is double what it is in North America, for instance, so even if you use an adaptor to make your plug fit into the wall, appliances and electronics made in North America are not suited for that type of voltage. If you want to keep your belongings but don't want to take them with you, you can rent a storage locker in your current country of residence to safeguard your possessions. Learn some German. Moving to a new country is difficult, but even knowing a few words or phrases will be an immense help, and will make the experience less stressful. Not only that, but the people you meet will be much more sympathetic if you make an effort to speak to them in German, even if they're bilingual and speak the same language you do. Ways you can learn some German include: Taking classes Listening to audiobooks or CDs Going through a German phrasebook and bilingual German dictionary Speaking with German people Give your current employer notice of your departure. Depending on where you work or what kind of contract you have, you may have to give your employer anywhere from two weeks' to several months' notice that you'll be leaving your job. Be sure to ask for a letter of reference in case you need someone to vouch for your skills or credentials. Open a bank account. Once you arrive in Germany, take your passport and residence certificate to the bank of your choice to open an account. You don't have to close the bank accounts in the country where you currently live. In fact, it's a good idea to keep at least one account and one credit card open (this way your credit won't be affected if you decide to move back). Exchange some of your money before you leave for Germany, as it will be beneficial to have Euros for when you arrive in Germany. Set up your utilities. When you move in to your new place in Germany, you will likely have to set up things like heating and energy for your home, unless you're renting a place that includes these things. Otherwise, setting up utilities will be much easier if you speak any German or have any German-speaking friends who can help you. If you're on your own, it's best to visit the various offices in person to set up your utilities, so that you can find someone who speaks English. The utilities you might need include your: Phone Cable /Satellite TV and internet Heating and energy Water Get to know your new location. It's a good idea to get yourself a map in case you get lost, but one of the best ways to get to know your new neighbourhood is to simply get out there and explore. Germans love walking, and many take a walk on a near-daily basis, especially Sundays when most shops are closed. Walking around any city, you'll find the closest grocery stores, malls, doctors, pubs, cafés, and other necessary amenities. If your city has a public transit system, get to know the routes and schedules, and explore the city by bus or train as well. Make new friends. Moving away from friends and family to live in a new city can be difficult, but feeling at home in the new city will be much easier after you make a few friends. Good ways to meet new people include: Volunteer with an organization Make a local café or pub your regular place Meet people through work or school Join a local team or club Partake in hobbies that you enjoy | Obtain a valid passport. Determine what type of visa you need. Know if you need a Schengen visa. Understand the different types of residency permits. Get health insurance. Find a job. Apply for a job. Find somewhere to live. Locate a temporary residence in Germany if necessary. Plan your moving date. Book your flight, organise your drive or arrange passage by sea. Determine what to do with your property. Decide what to do with your possessions. Learn some German. Give your current employer notice of your departure. Open a bank account. Set up your utilities. Get to know your new location. Make new friends. |
https://www.wikihow-fun.com/Fake-Vomit | How to Fake Vomit | If you want to make fake vomit, take some leftovers from dinner, chew it about 20 times, and spit it into a plastic Ziplock bag. Make the vomit look even more convincing and gross by adding a little water, milk, Vaseline, or thousand island salad dressing. Alternatively, mix together orange juice, milk, and a handful of chewed-up saltine crackers. For those who are more squeamish, simply thin out some canned soup with water or milk. Once you have your fake vomit, fake being sick by telling your parents that you don't feel well, then going to the bathroom and pretending to "puke" your fake vomit into the toilet. | Use leftovers from your dinner. After dinner, take some leftovers from dinner and chew the food about 20 times. Then, spit it into a plastic sandwich bag. Make sure you have a lot of leftovers to make your fake vomit with, but not so much that it'll be obvious all the leftovers are gone. If you only have a small amount of leftovers from dinner, it would be best to leave them alone and instead make the 'vomit' from other things in your kitchen. Use some water to help thin out the chewed-up food and make it look more vomit-like. Other additions that make fake vomit look gross include thousand island salad dressing, Vaseline, and milk. Be careful with using Vaseline, though, as it may not smell convincing enough to be added to your 'vomit'. Alternatively, you could use breakfast cereal or whatever it is that you plan on eating for breakfast. You might be able to make it a more convincing show early the next morning. Mix orange juice, milk, and crackers together. The most accurate-looking fake vomit concoction you can make without much effort is a mix of orange juice, milk, and chewed-up saltine crackers. Mix equal parts of milk and chewed-up crackers, but use orange juice sparingly. Massage the bag to mix it thoroughly and make it look gross. If you can do so without being caught, put your mixture into the same kind of mixer you use to mix cookie batter. However, these machines can be quite noisy, so be careful. Be cautious with putting orange juice into your mixture. It could make the vomit look fake. Instead of using orange juice, you could use some lemonade. Due to its distinct smell and yellowish-clear color, it could be even more convincing. Use uncooked canned soup. If you don't have any leftovers to use for your fake vomit recipe, start looking through the cupboards for cans of soup that you could use for your concoction. Good candidates include clam chowder, beef stew, pea soup, or other fairly chunky soups that will look like they've already been swallowed. Like the leftovers, try to thin the soup out some with some water or some milk. You probably don't need to use all of the can of soup, maybe less than half a can. Store the vomit in a plastic bag or a jar and hide it in your room. Look for some soup you know probably won't be used up or noticed. For example, if you only have that cream of onion soup because your great-aunt came over for Christmas Eve a couple years ago, use that because no one else will notice that it's gone. If you're using expired canned soup, that is even better because it will look more realistic. If anyone will notice that the canned soup was used, don't use it at all. Use oatmeal and food coloring. Get an empty bottle and fill it 3/4 with water, then add a few drops of different colors of food coloring to make a gross, brownish, dark color in the mixture. Add a pinch of chewed up leftovers to the mixture for extra texture and grossness. The mixture should be mostly water. If you add too much oatmeal, it's going to look like oatmeal. If your parents look closely and know you haven't eaten oatmeal recently, you'll be caught. Make spoiled milk vomit. If you want to go really gross with your fake vomit, you can do some planning ahead of time. Pour some milk into a glass and hide it in your room, preferably in a corner far from your bed so you won't have to smell it. Wait several days until it spoils and gets all chunky and gross. It'll usually take between three and five days. Chocolate and strawberry look best. Before it spoils, you might want to add some chewed up food and other stuff, just so you won't have to add it later. You'll want to be around it as little as possible. Hide the vomit in your room until the coast is clear. Keep your fake puke in a plastic bag or a jar and hide it somewhere in your room. Make sure it's safe in a container, because you don't want to spill it somewhere and have a disgusting mess on your hands. If your puke is discovered before you get ready to 'reveal' it in the toilet, just play it off like it's a science project, or an "experiment." . Fake getting sick first thing in the morning As soon as you get up, start complaining that you feel sick. Don't eat breakfast, or try chewing food with a horrible look on your face, as if you can't imagine eating something. Just start acting like you feel terrible. Make sure that your parents know you're "not feeling well." The morning is the best time to fake it. If you're throwing up, you won't be sent to school in the morning. If you fake it too early, like the night before or in the middle of the night, it's more likely that you'll be caught. Take your fake vomit into the bathroom. When you get a chance, slip away into the bathroom with your fake vomit in a plastic bag. Make sure you lock the door so you don't get caught fumbling with a plastic bag full of the fake stuff. If the vomit had dried, shake a bit of water around to get it moist again. Now kneel down in front of the toilet and start groaning. Make a big scene. When you get into the bathroom, start groaning and making retching sounds. As you make the sound quickly pour the vomit into the toilet as if you were vomiting. Dispose of the container as soon as possible. Turn slightly away from the toilet, groan and breathe slowly as if you had just been sick. Don't dump your fake vomit on the floor. If you think you might get in trouble for pretending to get sick, imagine how much trouble you'll be in if you faked getting sick and made your parents clean up rotten milk and soup off the carpet. Brush your teeth immediately after fake vomiting. It's possible to get caught immediately after dumping your fake puke, if it looks like you haven't puked. After you dump it out, start brushing your teeth, which is something you might normally do after throwing up. Open the door and let your parents see the puke in the toilet, just before you're flushing it down. The reason why you should brush your teeth is because usually, people get bad breath while they're sick, so parents may ask to smell your breath. If they do, tell them you brushed your teeth. Keep selling it. For the most part, you shouldn't have to do much more after your parents see a toilet full of "vomit". You'll be able to stay home from school that day. But, that doesn't mean you can suddenly turn around and start doing cartwheels. Act like you're pretty wiped out and tired, head to bed, and relax throughout your day off. If your parents call you from work, put on a groaning and tired voice. Say you are still feeling awful but not as much as in the morning. Don't overdo it. The suggestion of puke doesn't need to be overdone. If you want to stay home from school, you might even be able to get away with it just by saying that you puked and not necessarily showing it to anyone. Don't over think it. You don't have to prove that you're sick by taking a mouth full of disgusting soup and milk combo and fake puking on the floor. If you want to fake throwing up in front of someone for fun, do it in one quick motion (like a muscle spasm), leaning forward. Puff up your cheeks like you're about to puke. Repeat about 3 times, then pretend to swallow. Do this a few times, more dramatic each time. Finally, in two more retches, spit out the mixture. | Use leftovers from your dinner. Mix orange juice, milk, and crackers together. Use uncooked canned soup. Use oatmeal and food coloring. Make spoiled milk vomit. Hide the vomit in your room until the coast is clear. . Take your fake vomit into the bathroom. Make a big scene. Brush your teeth immediately after fake vomiting. Keep selling it. Don't overdo it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tie-an-Ascot | How to Tie an Ascot | To tie an ascot, start by draping it around your neck, with one end about six inches longer than the other. Grab the long end, cross it over and in front of the short end, then tuck it back under the short end. Now that you've created a loop, pull the long end all the way through, then straighten it out. To make your ascot look polished, reposition the long end so it's right on top of the short end, with both ends about the same length. | Drape the ascot around your neck and inside your collar. Make sure the ascot is on the inside of your collar directly touching your skin. The two open ends should be resting on your chest. Some ascots come with a pre-sewn loop on one side. If you are using an ascot with a loop, simply thread the long end of the ascot through the loop and skip to Step 4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet1.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} If you are wearing a button-up shirt, you will need to unbutton at least the top button. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet2.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-1Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","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>"} Pull one end about six inches lower than the other. Cross the long end over and in front of the short end. If you want a tighter, more secure knot, wrap the long end around the short end a second time. Tuck the long end up and under the short end at the base of the neck. Be sure not to make the folds too tight. Pull the long end all the way through and straighten it out. Reposition the ascot so that the long end is directly on top of the short end. The ascot should be positioned straight in the center of your chest just like a normal tie. The two ends should now be about the same length. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet1.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} If you are using an ascot with a pre-sewn loop, your ascot will only have one tail down your chest. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet2.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-6Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","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>"} Clean up the fold. Use your fingers to straighten and smooth the fold that you created at the base of your neck. Add a safety pin or decorative pin to the middle of the knot in the ascot if you want the knot to be extra secure. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-7Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-7Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-7Bullet1.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-7Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","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>"} Tuck both ends of the ascot into your waistcoat. If you are not wearing a waistcoat, you should tuck the ascot into whatever V-shaped neck of clothing you are wearing on your torso, such as a blazer. The focus of an ascot is the bib that forms around the neck, so just make sure that this part is exposed. Choose your ascot as you would a tie. Your ascot should stand out in your outfit, and therefore should contain different colors or patterns. Patterned ascots are currently very popular among men that want to add a sophisticated spark to their outfit. Sass up your suit. Every man walking around the financial district of your town is wearing a standard black suit, so how do you stand out? By adding an ascot! Personalize your suit to fit your style by using your ascot as a statement piece. Any color or pattern can be used to jazz up your standard black and white suit. Create a casual, preppy look. If a suit isn't your thing, sport an ascot with casual apparel to relax the class a bit. Shirt : Short or long-sleeve button-up shirt. Choose a light, solid-colored shirt to help make your ascot stand out. You can also wear a polo shirt on top, just make sure that the material does not clash with your silk ascot. Unbutton your top at least one button to allow room for tucking your ascot into your shirt. You won't always need a jacket, but when you do, add a V-neck blazer over your shirt. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet1.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","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>"} Pants : Sport jeans with your ascot. A dark wash pair of denim jeans is perfect for a polished look that transitions well from day to night. For an even more casual look, you can rock some lightly destroyed jeans, but try to maintain a dark wash. Light wash jeans tend to clash with the fancy look of an ascot. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet2.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","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>"} Shoes : Here's where you can get creative depending on the time of day or type of event you are building an outfit for. For a formal, nighttime event, wear black or brown leather dress shoes. For a daytime affair, opt for a more casual look with a pair of topsiders, cloth or brown leather. You can choose a colored pair of topsiders that compliments your ascot, but be sure that your ascot and shoes aren't exactly the same color and don't have clashing patterns. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet3.jpg\/aid1098881-v4-728px-Tie-an-Ascot-Step-11Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":322,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"510","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>"} | Drape the ascot around your neck and inside your collar. Pull one end about six inches lower than the other. Cross the long end over and in front of the short end. Tuck the long end up and under the short end at the base of the neck. Pull the long end all the way through and straighten it out. Reposition the ascot so that the long end is directly on top of the short end. Clean up the fold. Tuck both ends of the ascot into your waistcoat. Choose your ascot as you would a tie. Sass up your suit. Create a casual, preppy look. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-Dramatic-Monologue | How to Write Dramatic Monologue | A dramatic monologue is a great way to draw your audience in and shed some light on your character. To write a good monologue, you'll want to start with a compelling opening statement to grab the audience's attention, like “I am just like my father.” Then, have your character work through whatever issue they're having out loud. Keep in mind that a monologue, while spoken by 1 character, is usually addressed to another character, so you should plan to have a 2nd character on stage during the scene. A good monologue usually ends with a call to action that keeps the play moving. For example, you might have your character resolve to avenge his father's death at the end of his speech. | Be aware of the purpose of a dramatic monologue. Unlike a typical monologue, a dramatic monologue should have an outpouring of feeling from the speaker. As well, it should advance the story or narrative by clarifying the speaker's intentions, wants or beliefs, or altering the speaker's relationship with the other characters. A dramatic monologue usually occurs when a character is facing an extreme crisis, a dramatic moment in the plot, or a “do-or-die” situation where simple actions can no longer suitably convey the immense feeling or desire the character is dealing with. An effective dramatic monologue should express the goal, agenda, or backstory of the speaker. It can also try to enlist the support of other characters or the audience, or attempt to change the hearts and minds of the audience or the listener. A dramatic monologue can be used in theater, poetry and film. Understand the role of the dramatic monologue in theater. A dramatic monologue in theater is an uninterrupted speech made by a character and is an expression of the character's inner thoughts and feelings. A monologue differs from a soliloquy in that a soliloquy is literally a character talking to him/herself. A dramatic monologue has an implied audience, as the character will usually be speaking to another character in the monologue. You are likely familiar with the famous soliloquy in Shakespeare's Hamlet, (“To be or not to be…”) but the play also has a number of dramatic monologues, including one by the ghost of Hamlet's father. Addressing Hamlet in the dramatic monologue, the ghost begins by identifying himself (“I am thy father's spirit”) before revealing to Hamlet that he was murdered by his brother, Hamlet's uncle, and the crown was stolen from him: The serpent that did sting thy father's life Now wears his crown. Thy uncle, Ay, that incestuous, that adulterous beast, With witchcraft of his wit, with traitorous gifts-- O wicked wit and gifts, that have the power So to seduce! -- won to his shameful lust The will of my most seeming-virtuous queen. Shakespeare uses a dramatic monologue to provide Hamlet's motivation to kill Claudius and to give Hamlet's father an emotional presence in the play through a direct address to Hamlet and by extension, to the audience. Understand the role of a dramatic monologue in poetry. A dramatic monologue in poetry, also known as a personal poem, shares many characteristics with a theatrical monologue. There is an implied audience, there is no dialogue, and the poet speaks through an assumed voice, like a character. The monologue is dramatic in that is is meant to be read to an audience. In poetry, a dramatic monologue allows the poet to express a point of view through a certain character. Robert Hayden's Night, Death, Mississippi is a good example of a dramatic monologue in poetry, as the poem adopts the voice of an aging KKK member, listening to the sound of a lynching outside but too old to join the other KKK members. With a stanza such as: Christ, it was better than hunting bear which don't know why you want him dead. Using the device of the dramatic monologue in the poem, Hayden is able to create powerful emotion through taking on the disturbing and violent voice of a character. Look at several examples of dramatic monologues. There's a wealth of great monologues in poetry, plays, novels, and film that can serve as models for your own dramatic monologue. It may be useful to look specifically at: Robert Browning's poem “My Last Duchess”. Madame Ranevsky's monologue in Chekhov's The Cherry Orchard. The Indianapolis monologue in Spielberg's Jaws. Jules' shepherd monologue in Tarantino's Pulp Fiction. Analyze a monologue. Try to do more than read it over and instead, consider how it is working from a craft perspective. You may ask questions such as: To whom is the speaker addressing in the monologue? What does the speaker want from the addressee or receiver of the monologue? Why is the speaker performing the monologue at this point in the story? How does this monologue affect the overall plot and/or development of the speaker, as well as the other characters in the scene or in the story? What kind of language or description is the speaker using? What gives the speaker a unique or distinct voice? If we look at Jules' shepherd monologue in Tarantino's “Pulp Fiction” as an example , the monologue occurs at the very end of the film, in the climax of a scene: the robbery of a diner. Jules: Well there's this passage I got memorized. Ezekiel 25:17. "The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of the darkness. For he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know I am the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon you." The speaker is the character Jules Winnfield, a hit man played by Samuel L. Jackson. In previous scenes in the film, we are shown Jules and his partner, Vincent Vega (John Travolta) carrying out a hit on a group of college kids who stole money from their boss, Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames). During the hit, one of the kids shoots at Jules and Vincent, but, by some miracle, none of the bullets end up killing either men. Jules takes it as a sign from a higher power and during this dramatic monologue, explains that he is reconsidering his stance on killing others, or being “the tyranny of evil.” The dramatic monologue occurs at a key character moment for Jules, and the receiver of the monologue, a robber named “Honey Bunny”, becomes a stand in for all of the other people Jules has killed in the past. The monologue ends with Jules putting down his gun and allowing the robbers to leave unharmed, a major moment of character development. In terms of language use, Jules quotes a passage from the Bible, Ezekiel 25:17, which is a throwback to the earlier scene where he kills the college kids. Using Biblical language and then analyzing the more formal, poetic language of the Bible with curse words and casual slang like “my righteous ass” and “tryin'” instead of “trying”, Jules' character expresses himself with a distinct tone and style in the monologue that is consistent with his speech and voice in previous scenes in the film. Consider how the dramatic monologue will serve your story. Think about which character or characters' development could be furthered in your story by a dramatic monologue. Though your main character or one of your principal characters will likely go through the most character development, or be changed or altered by a conflict or event in the story, they do not necessarily need to be the speaker in the dramatic monologue. For example, the ghost monologue in Hamlet is serving the overall story in two ways: it relays key information to the play's protagonist (Hamlet), thereby setting him up to fulfill a revenge plot to get back at his murderous uncle and also adds to the feeling of unnatural occurrences or not quite reality in the play. So, though the ghost is not a major character, having the ghost as the speaker of the monologue still serves the overall story and furthers the action of the main character in the play. Comparatively, Jules' monologue in “Pulp Fiction” serves to further character development in the story by allowing one of the main characters to express their emotions and explain the way his understanding of his work and of himself have evolved. The monologue illustrates the character's progression from the beginning of the story to the end of the story and lets the viewer know a change or shift has occurred for that character. Determine where you are going to place the dramatic monologue in your story. Once you have identified the purpose of the dramatic monologue in your story (to relay information to the audience? to create dramatic tension? to signal a character shift or change?), you will need to figure out how it will fit into a scene. If it is a monologue that will show character development, you may want to place it towards the mid point or climax of the story or towards the end of the story. If it is a monologue that is going to spoken by a minor character to relay information to a main character or add to the theme or mood of the story, you may want to place it earlier in the action of the story. For example, the ghost monologue in Hamlet occurs early in the play, Act I, Scene 5. By the time the ghost appears, Shakespeare has already established Hamlet as a the main character as well as his unease or melancholy nature, and the “foul” or troubled state of the kingdom of Denmark. The monologue then moves the story forward as it causes Hamlet to take action, thereby furthering the overall plot. Comparably, Jules' monologue takes place in the last scene of the film, and functions to show that Jules has changed or shifted. The previous scenes all served to illustrate Jules' journey as a main character and prepares the audience for his moment of realization. The monologue resolves the conflict he struggled with throughout the rest of the film, so it is placed at the end of the film as a moment of resolution. Create a first draft. Remember that with a first draft, you are trying to get a feel for the character's voice and the way they might express their desires or concerns. Don't put pressure on yourself to create a perfect first attempt, as you will be rewriting, editing, and redrafting it. Remember to: Use your character's voice. Keep in mind the language, description, and tone of that character. Focus on sensory details like taste, touch, sound, etc. to engage the audience's empathy or emotion for the character by engaging their senses. Use the present tense. This is happening now and should have a sense of urgency. Start with a compelling beginning sentence or phrase. While it is ideal to have a hook beginning, a catchy line or phrase that will engage the viewer's attention, make sure the monologue fits within the current scene or has enough build up to justify its presence in the scene. You could begin the scene with a short introduction to the speaker, such as in the ghost monologue: “I am thy father's spirit.” You could then have the speaker and the other character(s) have a conversation or dialogue to build up the monologue, such as in the diner scene with Jules' monologue, where Jules asks if the robber (Tim Roth) reads the Bible before launching into the monologue with a Biblical passage. Move into rising action or tension. Create a build up to a reveal or explore the speaker's motive or desire. It should be clear what the speaker is trying to communicate to the listener. In the ghost monologue, the ghost (speaker) starts a dialogue with Hamlet and over the course of the dialogue, the ghost says lines like "Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder". Gradually, the ghost's motive for speaking to Hamlet becomes clearer. In Jules' monologue, he recites a passage from the Bible that will frame his larger point about the “tyranny of evil”. The passage also has a double meaning as it was used by Jules in an earlier scene right before he killed the college kids. This is a callback to the previous scene but it places the same passage within a different moment in the character's journey. The context for the passage has changed for Jules and as a result, it has also changed for the audience. Create a climax. Just as in the story as a whole, the climax of the monologue should change the scope of the story and be a pivotal point for the speaker's development or for the character listening to the speaker. In the ghost monologue, the climax occurs once the ghost has detailed how he was poisoned by his own brother, Hamlet's uncle, and his crown and queen was stolen from him. This is a game changer for Hamlet (and by extension, the audience), as it then moves Hamlet to avenge his father's death and also allows the audience to have sympathy for the wrongful death of Hamlet's father. In Jules' monologue, the climax occurs when Jules notes that the listener (the robber) is “weak” and he is the “tyranny of evil” but, despite this evil, he is “tryin' real hard to be the shepherd”. This climax indicates the robbers will likely live instead of die, and also illustrate the reason why Jules decides to give up his life as a hitman and be a “shepherd” rather than be an active part of the “tyranny of evil.” Finish with a resolution. End the monologue with a moment of realization from the speaker and/or the listener and then let the larger story continue or end. The ghost monologue ends with a call to action for Hamlet to avenge his murder. In the rest of the scene, Hamlet acknowledges this new information about his murderous uncle and responds to the ghost's call to vengeance by vowing to get even. At the end of Jules' monologue, he punctuates his desire to be a “shepherd” rather than part of the “tyranny of evil” by cocking his gun and placing it on the table, thereby allowing the robbers to leave the scene unharmed. Place the monologue within the larger story or piece and consider how it works. Now that you feel you have a solid draft of the monologue, consider how it functions within the rest of the story. Ensure the monologue flows well within the larger story. There should be enough build up or dramatic tension in the moments before the monologue occurs to justify the need for a dramatic monologue. The audience should be prepared, rather than surprised or confused, by the monologue. Read the monologue aloud to yourself. Does the monologue sound natural? Does it sound like something the character would say? Check the timing of the monologue. Does it take too long to get started? Should it end sooner? What can be cut from the draft? Look for places where the monologue sounds redundant or the same point is stated in different ways. Read the monologue out loud to others. Feedback from a live audience can help you identify issues or edits you may have overlooked. Ask your listeners if they understood the overall message or purpose of the monologue. If you are writing a dramatic monologue for a play or film, it may be useful to have two people act out the scene with the monologue. Have someone read the monologue back to you. Listening to someone else interpret your words is a great way to see if your message is clear, the character voice is believable, and there is enough detail in the monologue. Continue revising. Many of the most celebrated monologues are the result of many, many drafts and revisions. Don't be afraid to kill your darlings, which is a phrase in literature that means don't be precious about removing words or terms that seem out of place or there for the sake of style, rather than substance. | Be aware of the purpose of a dramatic monologue. Understand the role of the dramatic monologue in theater. Understand the role of a dramatic monologue in poetry. Look at several examples of dramatic monologues. Analyze a monologue. Consider how the dramatic monologue will serve your story. Determine where you are going to place the dramatic monologue in your story. Create a first draft. Start with a compelling beginning sentence or phrase. Move into rising action or tension. Create a climax. Finish with a resolution. Place the monologue within the larger story or piece and consider how it works. Read the monologue aloud to yourself. Read the monologue out loud to others. Continue revising. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Exponential-Function-Given-a-Rate-and-an-Initial-Value | How to Write an Exponential Function Given a Rate and an Initial Value | To write an exponential function given a rate and an initial value, start by determining the initial value and the rate of interest. For example if a bank account was opened with $1000 at an annual interest rate of 3%, the initial value is 1000 and the rate is.03. Then, rewrite the time variable of t/h as t/12, since the money increases by 3% every 12 months. Finally, plug in the values and write your exponential function as f(t)=1,000(1.03)t/12. | Consider an example. Suppose a bank account is started with a $1,000 deposit and the interest rate is 3% compounded annually. Find an exponential equation modeling this function. Know the basic form. The form for an exponential equation is f(t)=P 0 (1+r) where P 0 is the initial value, t is the time variable, r is the rate and h is the number needed to ensure the units of t match up with the rate. Plug in the initial value for P and the rate for r. You will have f(t)=1,000(1.03)t/h.
Find h. Think about your equation. Every year, the money increases by 3%, so every 12 months the money increases by 3%. Since you need to give t in months, you have to divide t by 12, so h=12. Your equation is f(t)=1,000(1.03). If the units are the same for the rate and the t increments, h is always 1. Understand what e is. When you use the value e as the base, you are using the "natural base." Using the natural base allows you to pull the continuous growth rate directly from the equation. Consider an example. Suppose a 500 gram sample of an isotope of Carbon has a half life of 50 years (the half life is the amount of time for the material to decay by 50%). Know the basic form. The form for an exponential equation is f(t)=ae where a is the initial value, e is the base, k is the continuous growth rate, and t is the time variable. Plug in the initial value. The only value you are given that you need in the equation is the initial growth rate. So, plug it in for a to get f(t)=500e Find the continuous growth rate. The continuous growth rate is how fast the graph is changing at a particular instant. You know that in 50 years, the sample will decay to 250 grams. That can be considered a point on the graph that you can plug in. So t is 50. Plug it in to get f(50)=500e. You also know that f(50)=250, so substitute 250 for f(50) on the left hand side to obtain the exponential equation 250=500e. Now to solve the equation, first divide both sides by 500 to get: 1/2=e. Then take the natural logarithm of both sides to get: ln(1/2)=ln(e. Use the properties of logarithms to take the exponent out of the argument of the natural log and multiply it by the log. This results in ln(1/2)=50k(ln(e)). Recall that ln is the same thing as log e and that the properties of logarithms say that if the base and the argument of the logarithm are the same, the value is 1. Therefore ln(e)=1. So the equation simplifies to ln(1/2)=50k, and if you divide by 50, you learn that k=(ln(1/2))/50. Use your calculator to find the decimal approximation of k to be approximately -.01386. Notice that this value is negative. If the continuous growth rate is negative, you have exponential decay, if it is positive, you have exponential growth. Plug in the k value. Your equation is 500e. | Consider an example. Know the basic form. Plug in the initial value for P and the rate for r. You will have f(t)=1,000(1.03)t/h.
Find h. Understand what e is. Consider an example. Know the basic form. Plug in the initial value. Find the continuous growth rate. Plug in the k value. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Gray-Hair | How to Prevent Gray Hair | If you want to try to prevent gray hair from appearing on your head, start by talking to your doctor about taking daily vitamins, like B12 or zinc. Try doing a weekly hair mask with egg oil, which contains anti-oxidants to stop your hair from prematurely aging. If you smoke, consult with your doctor about quitting since cigarettes are known to cause premature aging and damage your hair and skin. Leave time for relaxation in your life because stress can cause hair loss, and when the hair grows back it can have a lighter pigmentation. | Get enough vitamins. Vitamins (including B12) are essential for hair and skin health. When you have a deficiency, your hair can prematurely begin to lose some of its pigment or even fall out (it may fall out if you have a zinc deficiency), making you gray or bald (you'd want to avoid both). Vitamins are found in animal products such as beef, fish, eggs and chicken, as well as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy. Consider taking multivitamin supplements if you're concerned about going gray too early, especially if you suspect that you aren't consuming enough beneficial vitamins and micronutrients through your diet. Taking supplements isn't a magic potion guaranteed to keep your hair colorful, but it may give you a little extra time before it turns gray. Vegans are more likely to have a B12 deficiency because it's hard to get enough B12 through food other than animal products. Vegans should pay special attention to their B12 intake, through supplementation if necessary. Vegetarians can get B12 from milk and egg products. Massage with egg oil. Massage your scalp twice a week with egg oil and leave it on overnight. Egg oil contains anti-oxidant xanthophylls like lutein and zeaxanthin which arrest premature aging (graying) of hair and even reverses early stage grey hair. A tip for leaving it overnight is to cover your bed with a plastic sheet; it may be uncomfortable but it saves a ton of time when you want to clean your bed! Stop smoking. Smoking tobacco has been tied to going gray before the age of 30. If you're a smoker and you're concerned about going gray, it's one of many good reasons to take measures to stay away from cigarettes starting right now. If you just smoke occasionally, the habit might not be difficult to break on your own. If you're a heavy smoker, you probably need some support to quit. Either way, it's never too soon to get started. Any other form of tobacco use is equally harmful. Smoking also causes hair to look prematurely dull and brittle. Damaged hair can fall out more easily than healthy hair. Smoking also ages your skin prematurely and may even make its color look off (in some cases even the persons skin will turn gray). Smoking furthermore ruins your teeth making them weak, lose color, causes gum disease as well as enamel damage and will cause premature loss of teeth. Take good care of your hair to prevent hair loss. While unhealthy hair doesn't turn gray any sooner than healthy hair, unhealthy hair is more likely to fall out. When new hair grows back in , it often has less pigment than the original hair, especially as you start to get older. Think about how you can change your hair care routine to keep your hair strong and undamaged so it won't fall out. If you bleach your hair, always keep it dyed, or use a chemical straightener, your hair might be more prone to falling out. Hair extensions are known to cause hair loss, especially if they're put in improperly. Using a hair dryer, curling iron or straightener every day is damaging to hair, even when you use a heat protectant. It's better to let it air dry and go natural. Even brushing your tangles out, especially when your hair is wet, can cause hair loss and breakage. Be gentle with your hair and use a wide-toothed comb instead. Try other natural remedies to keep your hair vibrant. While there are no conclusive studies to show that natural supplements can prevent gray hair, there are several remedies popular in India and other areas that are said to stop it in its tracks. If you decide to add a supplement to your daily diet, consult with a doctor or nutritionist first to make sure it's a healthy choice for you. Here are some popular options: Blackstrap molasses Black sesame Chlorophyll supplements Nettle leaf Seaweed Amla (an ayurvedic herb) Don’t get anxious about your stress. Probably the most popular myth about gray hair is that it starts growing in more quickly when you're stressed. You've probably heard harried parents say “You're going to give me gray hair!” to their misbehaving children a million times. The truth is, stress itself does not cause hair to grow in gray, so you can stop worrying that your job, family, lack of sleep and other issues are going to sap away your gorgeous color. However, if you're so stressed out that your hair is actually falling out, that's cause for concern, since when your hair grows back in it could be lighter in pigment. If you're that stressed out, it's time to take measures to get some help. Consider talking to a therapist, meditation , and other practices that will help you feel happy and healthy again. Forget the idea that plucking a gray hair will cause multiple grays to sprout. That's an old wives' tale that has no factual basis. If you have a prominent gray hair and it annoys you every time you notice it, feel free to pluck it out without worrying that you'll cause a mini explosion of grays. However, plucking grays isn't a great long-term solution. Firstly, when you pluck, you can damage the hair follicle and prevent hairs from growing back. Secondly, the plucked follicle is gray and will always be gray; it won't come back in your other color. And thirdly, eventually you'll have too many to pluck, so you'll need to find a better solution. Set aside your worries about dyeing your hair turning it gray. If you went through a long phase of dyeing your hair every color under the sun, you might have had someone tell you that dyeing your hair turns it gray prematurely. This isn't true at all, so cast your worries aside. However, excessive dyeing and bleaching can damage hair, which can cause it to fall out and grow back in a lighter pigment. Feel free to let your hair get some sun. The sun will lighten your hair, but it doesn't make your hair turn gray. Hair turns gray naturally due to the loss of melanin, which gives hair its pigment. Outside factors like sun exposure don't make a difference when it comes to grayness. Use a mask for temporary coverage. When your roots are just starting to grow in gray, there are powder, gels and other products you can use to temporarily mask the gray. Choose a product that comes in a color that matches your color. In most cases you'll apply it to the roots once you hair has been washed and dried, then shampoo it out next time you wash your hair. . Use a permanent dye If you're not a fan of your new gray look, you may want to dye your hair permanently. Keep in mind you'll need to touch up the roots often, too. There are a variety of options and hundreds of colors to choose from, so do a little research before dyeing your hair to decide what look will be right for you. You may want to make an appointment with a colorist who has been professionally trained to dye gray hair. He or she can help guide you to a choice that you'll be happy with. You may instead want to save some money and use a boxed hair dye. Be sure to read reviews online before choosing a product. Buy a type of dye that specifies it's for use on gray hair. Go natural. Many women and men are embracing their gray hair and letting it grow in as it naturally does. Instead of trying to hide it, why not be proud of your hair? Gray hair can be just as eye-catching as any other color if you style it in a way that shows the world you're still in the game. To keep it looking bright and healthy, look for shampoos, conditioners and other hair products designed especially for gray or white hair. | Get enough vitamins. Massage with egg oil. Stop smoking. Take good care of your hair to prevent hair loss. Try other natural remedies to keep your hair vibrant. Don’t get anxious about your stress. Forget the idea that plucking a gray hair will cause multiple grays to sprout. Set aside your worries about dyeing your hair turning it gray. Feel free to let your hair get some sun. Use a mask for temporary coverage. . Go natural. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Rope-Harness | How to Make a Rope Harness | To make a rope harness, start by wrapping the rope around one of your upper thighs and tying it with a bowline knot. Then, wrap the long end of the rope around your other leg and tie it. Make sure you leave a small loop between your legs for the rope to go. After you've tied the rope around both of your legs, there should be a crosspiece of rope connecting them. Loop the long end of the rope around your back and pass it through this crosspiece. Repeat this until you run out of rope. At this point, you should tie the long end and short end of the rope in a square knot. Finally, tie a few more knots on each side of the rope to secure you in case the first one comes loose. | Wrap the rope around your upper thigh. First, wrap the end of the rope around one leg, starting between the legs and winding around the outside of your figure to meet the rest of the rope at the upper thigh. The rope should rest comfortably beneath your rear. Pull the end through so that you have about two feet of slack to tie the knot. Make sure to use a rope that is thick enough to support your weight. If possible, use a dedicated climbing rope that is designed to hold up against the shock of a fall. Consider using climbing webbing. Tie a bowline knot to secure the first leg. If you made the first loop around your right leg, then use your left "steady" hand to form a small loop in the long side of the rope that runs between your legs. Hold the loose end of the rope in your right hand. Then, pull the loose end up toward you through the loop, and wrap it around the base of the loop. Thread the end of the rope back through the loop. Finally, pull the ends in opposite directions to tighten the knot. Think of the loop as a "rabbit's hole," and the long end coming off the loop as a "tree". Imagine that the loose end of the rope, which you're holding in your right hand, is the "rabbit". The rabbit comes up the hole, runs around the tree, and goes back down the hole. The loose short end of the rope serves to secure your leg. The long end will loop around the other leg, and will eventually become the "crosspiece" to which you clip the carabiner. Tie another bowline around your other leg. Wrap the long end of the rope around your other leg, but be sure to leave room for a small "rabbit's hole" loop where the rope goes between your legs. Tie the bowline and tighten the knot. You should now have a sturdy "crosspiece" that runs across the front of your pelvic area. The crosspiece should be about 2 inches long with the knots toward the inside of the leg. Take the long end around your back and through the crosspiece. Make sure that the rope sits comfortably in the small of your back, above your seat. Strengthen the harness. Wrap the rest of the rope around your back and through the crosspiece in the same direction. Continue until you run out of webbing. Three or four wraps of rope around your waist should provide plenty of support. Pull the rope tight, but not so tight that it constricts your movement. Try to keep the rope strands parallel – don't let them cross over and become tangled. Tie the two ends together with a square knot. Connect the short loose end that protrudes from the first bowline knot to the end of the long length of rope that you've wrapped around your waist. Back up both sides. Tie overhand knots, square knots , fisherman's knots , or another sturdy knot. The goal here is to make your harness extra secure, and to provide a bit of insurance should your other knots come loose. Clip in the carabiner to the crosspiece. Clip it as if someone walked up to you and clipped it down onto your harness – then pull the gate out front. This will make it easy to clip things into your carabiner. If you are rappelling, you want the opening end of the carabiner to lie against you, not the cliff. Be sure to lock the carabiner. If your carabiner does not lock, then you'll need to be especially careful. Consider simply looping the climbing or rappelling rope through the crosspiece – but make sure that there are two "points of contact." Check that your harness is secure. Pull up on your crosspiece to make sure that it feels strong enough to hold your weight. Make sure that you cannot fit more than two fingers between your thighs and the rope loops. Tug the rope that is coiled around your waist, and ensure that it will not slip off easily. Double-check all of your knots. If you are climbing or rappelling, then the rope should have two "points of contact" with your harness at all times – at least two spans of rope. If you are belaying, then the carabiner should lock through two points of contact. Be thorough! Do not put your full weight onto this harness until you are absolutely sure that it will hold up. . Anchor to something sturdy Tie the climbing or rappelling rope to something that will hold your full weight without bending or breaking. Look around you for solid anchors: Trees more than eight inches in diameter. Check that the tree is well-rooted: that it is sturdily attached to the ground, and not in loose soil. Rocks: large, sturdy boulders and outcroppings. Do not tie your anchor to porous rock that might flake or chip away. The frame of a vehicle. Make sure that the vehicle is in park with the parking brake on. Chock the wheels by placing rocks, bricks, or wedges to stop them from rolling. | Wrap the rope around your upper thigh. Tie a bowline knot to secure the first leg. Tie another bowline around your other leg. Take the long end around your back and through the crosspiece. Strengthen the harness. Tie the two ends together with a square knot. Back up both sides. Clip in the carabiner to the crosspiece. Check that your harness is secure. . |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-TV-Writer | How to Become a TV Writer | If you want to become a TV writer, start by staying updated on what's on TV right now so you can get a sense of what's popular. As you watch, take notes on the dialog to get a feel for how it flows naturally, and to see which non-verbal actions work best. For example, if you're writing comedy, it's often the eye-rolling, pulling funny faces, or odd walks, that convey the character's real meaning, instead of spoken words. When you're ready to write, try reading reference books like The Screenwriter's Bible, taking TV writing classes online, and maybe joining a screenwriting club so you can learn screenwriters' terminology and techniques. | Major in entertainment writing. Look for colleges that offer writing degrees in screenwriting, film and television, or cinema and media production. TV writing is a specific type of writing and majoring in English or creative writing may be too broad. Be specific when choosing a writing program and make sure it includes classes specific to television production. Film classes will help you understand characters, plot, and what translates well from the page to the screen. These classes will also give you an understanding of how films are made. Theater classes will give you an in depth look at working with actors on a script. These classes often require you to work with others and teach you how to work within a team. This will help prepare you for the larger project of TV writing. Television writing and production classes will be some of the most beneficial you can take. These classes will cover how to create scripts, what to expect in your job search, and career options. Take Writing for TV classes. You do not have to seek a degree to take these classes. Classes are offered online or in person, depending on where you are. Look in your area for TV writing classes sponsored by colleges, writing groups, or media companies. If you live in an area without access to in person classes, online classes are just as beneficial. Either option will allow you to meet new people who share your interest and make connections for the future. Read books about TV writing. Reference books will help you understand formatting as well as the creative aspect of TV writing. The Screenwriter's Bible by David Trottier or Crafty TV: Thinking Inside the Box by Alex Epstein are good books to start with. TV scripts are not formatted the same way as books or essays so researching is essential. Study TV shows. Watch current TV shows with the purpose of educating yourself. Ask yourself what in the writing makes the show work. How does the dialogue convey (or not) what the characters are trying to communicate? What role does non-verbal communication play in the show? How is the plot moving forward in this specific show as well as the rest of the season? How does the writing convey character development? Research screenwriters you admire. Use the Internet to find out who writes the shows you enjoy and research them. Watch or read interviews with screenwriters to find out how their career began and grew. If comedy is an area that interests you, Carol Leifer has written for Saturday Night Live , Seinfeld , and Devious Maids among other shows. She describes her experiences in her memoirs How to Succeed in Business Without Really Crying: Lessons From A Life in Comedy as well as in numerous interviews. If you are a fan of Grey's Anatomy , Scandal , or How to Get Away With Murder , Shonda Rhimes has given several interviews discussing her career. She discusses her transition from film to television and often has advice for aspiring writers. Choose a network TV show you love to watch. Writing for a show and characters you are connected to will come across as more authentic than writing for a show just because it is popular. Do not write an original show idea. Show executives want to know if you can write in a preexisting world without drastically changing the show's dynamic or losing your unique voice. An established show is better than a brand new one since it will likely still be on the air when your script is ready to send out. Write a typical episode. This is not the time to drastically change the path of the show or showcase your new ideas. Stay true to the characters and storyline to prove that you can work within the established world of the show. Think about the storyline the show revolves around. If it is a mystery, do not solve the mystery in your episode. Similarly do not write an episode in which two characters finally become a couple if the show revolves around their romantic tension. It is also best to not kill off any characters in your spec script. Do not revisit or rewrite the show's history. You should keep your script within the confines of present day for the show. Your script should be free of flashbacks and mythology. Refine your writing. Edit your script, then edit it again. Watch the TV show you are writing an episode for and then go back to your script to make sure the writing stays true to the show. Is the dialogue believable for the show? Are your stage directions realistic within the confines of the series? Seek out editors. Family and friends are not ideal as they are often too close to you to be honest. Look for writer's groups, either online or in person, to exchange ideas and editing services with. These groups will help you hone your craft. They will also help you learn to accept rejection gracefully. Begin a second script. You will need at least two speculative (spec) scripts to break into the entertainment writing business. For television this will be two episodic screenplays of a TV show. This is how you will show executives and showrunners your writing ability and it is essentially your resume. You also want to make sure you have one ready to send in immediately if it is requested. Get an agent. An agent can help get your script into the right hands. Agents will list on their website specific instructions on how to submit your writing. The Writer's Guild of America is a reputable resource for finding agencies. Almost all agents will require a query letter. This is a letter in which you sell your writing and yourself to the agent. Some require a specific format so check their website. All are looking for something that stands out so make sure your letter highlights the best parts of you and your writing. An agent shouldn't charge upfront to represent you. Most agents' fees are 10-12 percent after they broker your deal. If an agent asks you to pay a fee just for representation, move on to another agency. Send your script to TV showrunners and executive producers. You can look up information online about how to submit your script to them as they have specific, individual instructions. Many do not accept scripts, depending on legal issues with their current shows. The ones that will accept them usually have instructions on their company site for submitting episode manuscripts. Apply for a job as an assistant. Becoming a writer's or producer's assistant is an excellent way to get your foot in the door of TV writing. You will not make much money, but you will be exposed to a TV show from the off camera point of view. This will allow you to read scripts, see how writers and producers work in real time, and make numerous connections within the industry. Check out the job opportunities section on the home page of the production company you are interested in joining. Network as often as possible. Search online for workshops, conventions, or meet and greets in your field. Join media groups online and follow them on social media. The more connections you make, the better your chance of getting a foot in the door. | Major in entertainment writing. Take Writing for TV classes. Read books about TV writing. Study TV shows. Research screenwriters you admire. Choose a network TV show you love to watch. Write a typical episode. Refine your writing. Seek out editors. Begin a second script. Get an agent. Send your script to TV showrunners and executive producers. Apply for a job as an assistant. Network as often as possible. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Washing-Machine-Filter | How to Clean a Washing Machine Filter | To clean your washing machine filter, start by turning your machine off and unplugging it. Next, find your filter, which will either be in the bottom right corner on the outside of the washer, the bottom right-hand corner of the inside of the machine, or underneath the agitator. Remove the cover and pull the filter out of place. Once out, use a paper towel to remove any lint or excess detergent. If the lint screen is removable, take it off and place it in a bowl of hot water for 10 minutes. Otherwise, hold the filter under hot running water until the residue is gone. When the filter is clean, replace it and put the outer cover back. | Turn off and unplug your washing machine. Before trying to locate and remove your filter, it is important that your machine is disabled. Start by turning all of the buttons to a neutral position or hit the 'off' button, if your machine has one. Switch the power off from the wall socket and unplug your washer. Make sure that you leave the plug in a safe location where it cannot get wet during the cleaning process. You should also put down old towels in front of your washer to soak up any possible water build up that may come free once the filter is removed. Find your washing machine filter. For front-loading machines, the filter will be in the bottom right corner on the outside of the washer. If you have an older top-loading washer, your filter will also be in the bottom right-hand corner of the machine. However, most top-loading washers, such as Siemens, have self-cleaning filters located underneath the agitator. The agitator is the device located directly in the center of the machine that rotates back and forth during the wash cycle. Self-cleaning filters still need to be cleaned every 3 to 4 months. If the filter is located in the bottom right-hand corner of the machine it will have a rectangular or circular cover over it. If you are unable to locate your filter, consult the owner's manual. Remove the cover of your filter. Most covers can be removed by pulling it away from the machine. However, some washers come with childproof covers, which can be harder to remove. To remove these covers, use a thin object, such as a screwdriver, to pry the cover off. Once you can grab the cover, turn it counter-clockwise until you can remove it completely. If your filter is located underneath the agitator, remove the agitator first. Take the cap off of the agitator and put your hand inside the shaft until you feel a wing-nut screw. Twist the screw counter-clockwise until it is removed and you can lift the agitator out of the machine. After you have removed the agitator, lift the filter cover out of position. Take out your filter. Once you have removed the cap to the filter, it will easily pull out of place. If it gets stuck, try to manipulate it by moving it around as much as you can. This should loosen up any lint or detergent that may be causing it to stick. As you remove your filter, you should see a layer of wet lint mixed with detergent. In some washers, the draining hose will be located directly in front of the filter. If the drain hose blocks the filter from coming out, remove it and then pull out the filter. Use a paper towel to remove any lint from the filter. Residue on the filter is caused by a build up of excess detergent mixed with lint. To remove it, use a clean paper towel to wipe the screen. If the layer of lint is on the thicker side, you can use a small brush, such as an old toothbrush, to remove the debris. Remove the screen from the filter and soak it in hot water for 10 minutes. If you can remove the lint screen, take it off and place it in a bowl of hot tap water. Allowing it to soak will remove any lingering lint, fabric softener, or detergent that couldn't be cleared with the paper towel. If you cannot remove the screen from the filter, hold the filter under hot running water until all of the residue is removed. Inspect the inside of the machine for excess lint. Before replacing the filter check the inside of the machine for any loose lint. If there is lint in the drum of the washer use a paper towel to remove it or scrub it with a wet sponge. If the filter was in the bottom right-hand corner of the machine, inspect and remove any lint from the drainage hose. The hose will be located either in front of where you removed the filter or directly next to it. Replace the filter and the outer cover. Once you are certain your filter is free from all residue, go ahead and put it back in the machine. If you removed the drainage hose, make sure to put it back before securing the cover. If the filter was under the agitator, begin by placing the filter back in its spot and secure the cap. Place the agitator back over the filter and secure the wing-nut and the cap of the agitator. Run your empty washer to test for leaks. Before resuming your regular washes, check to make sure that you have placed the filter and cover back on correctly by running it through a small cycle. Keep your washer empty while you run the cycle. If your washer is leaking, the filter is not on correctly. If you had to remove the draining hose, check that it is properly secured, as the leak could also be coming from there. Clean your filter at least 4 times a year. It is recommended that you clean your filter every 4 months. The filter will collect hair, coins, and tissues, so it is important to it clean regularly. Even if you don't have time to do a thorough clean every few weeks, it's not a bad idea to check your filter for any possible build up. Cleaning your filter regularly will also prolong the life of your washing machine. Identify problems right when they occur. Don't wait until your washer decides to stop working mid-cycle to figure out what's wrong with it. There are many signs you may be missing that indicate the filter needs to be cleaned. If you notice excessive vibrations, wet clothes after the final spin, or problems with the water draining, the filter may be clogged and you should check it right away. Wipe the door seal out after every use. If you neglect the door seal, even if you clean your filter regularly, anything stuck in the seal may get trapped in your filter during the next wash. Depending on how long it has been since you last cleaned the seal, the residue can clog your filter making it harder to clean and potentially reduce the life of your filter. Use a rag to wipe the exposed area of the seal. The door seal is a rubber piece that is located right inside the washer door. It is the part that keeps water from escaping when the washer is full. | Turn off and unplug your washing machine. Find your washing machine filter. Remove the cover of your filter. Take out your filter. Use a paper towel to remove any lint from the filter. Remove the screen from the filter and soak it in hot water for 10 minutes. Inspect the inside of the machine for excess lint. Replace the filter and the outer cover. Run your empty washer to test for leaks. Clean your filter at least 4 times a year. Identify problems right when they occur. Wipe the door seal out after every use. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Convince-Your-Parents-to-Let-You-Get-a-Cat-(Teens) | How to Convince Your Parents to Let You Get a Cat (Teens) | Before trying to convince your parents to let you get a cat, prepare a care schedule so you can show them you're ready for the responsibility of pet ownership. Additionally, if possible, begin saving some money to put towards a cat. When you're prepared, pick a time to sit down with your parents and talk through how you would care for and afford a cat. Be sure to give your parents some time to think about their answer, don't pressure them or they may say no! | Ask your parents why they don’t want a cat. Once you understand your parent's concerns, you can come up with ways to address them. Listen carefully to what your parents say. Don't interrupt, and ask lots of follow-up questions. You might ask, “I know that you don't want me to get a cat. Can you please explain why?” If they say that you won't clean up after the cat, ask, “Why do you think that?” Make a weekly cat care schedule. This is especially important if your parents think you won't have time to take care of a cat. Write down all your commitments for every day of the week. Think about school, homework, extracurricular activities, and chores. Then, figure out how you can fit in cat care. Show your completed schedule to your parents. Cats require about an hour of play and attention each day. You'll need to scoop the litter box daily and change it every week or so. You should feed your cat twice a day, make sure they always have fresh water, and clean their water bowl daily. Research the cost of adoption and care. A cat can be expensive. Besides the cost of the cat itself, someone will need to pay for trips to the vet, food, toys, and medicine. Know the numbers so you can start saving money and present the facts to your parents. Getting a cat from a shelter is the cheapest option. You'll probably pay $50-$100. Between medical expenses, food, and supplies, it can cost around $705 per year to own a cat. Save money to pay for your cat and cat-related expenses. Start saving your money as soon as possible. Spend less of your allowance, get a job, or ask your parents if you can earn money doing extra chores around the house. Your parents may be able to help you out with the expenses. However, you should contribute as much as you can to the cost of the cat. Create a presentation or speech about the benefits of cat ownership. Do some research about the benefits of owning a cat. List all the reasons why you think a cat would be a good addition to the family. Spend some time thinking of ways to address your parent's concerns. You can deliver this information during a conversation with your parents, or make a powerpoint presentation or a written report. For example, if your parents are afraid that they'll be stuck doing all the cat care, you can point out that you've been really responsible caring for other pets in the past. If your parents are worried about messes, talk about how you'll prevent messes and address them when they occur. You could mention that adopting a cat from a shelter is a charitable act because it gives a needy cat a home. Practice your presentation or speech ahead of time. If you made a presentation, run through it a few times until it feels easy. If you're just having a traditional conversation, plan out what you want to say beforehand and practice in the mirror. That way, you'll remember to discuss all your key points. If a family member has an allergy, then having them consider getting a hypoallergenic cat might be a good idea. There is a variety of hypoallergenic cat breeds. If your family has no access to any hypoallergenic cats somehow, then maybe getting a cat might not be the best idea. As awesome as cats are, cat allergies can be pretty troublesome. If a family member has a cat allergy, you probably won't have much luck convincing your parents to let you get a cat, unless you can get a hypoallergenic cat. Consider a different pet instead, if this is the case for you. If you're really passionate about cats and you are unable to have one as a pet, try volunteering at your local shelter to spend time with the kitties there. Pick an appropriate time to talk. Make sure your parents have time to talk. If they're frazzled and running late to work, hold off until things are calmer. Catch your parents when they're in a good mood, because they'll be more likely to listen to what you have to say. Start by expressing appreciation for all your parents do for you. Don't act like you deserve a cat. It'll just make your parents shut down. Instead, approach the situation with an attitude of gratitude. Your parents will be more open to your argument. You might tell your parents, “I want to start by saying that I'm super thankful to have parents who support me and work hard to give me some amazing things.” Present your research to your parents. If you made a presentation, now's the time to whip it out. Otherwise, go through the key points you planned out earlier. Remember to talk about your plan for care, why you want a cat, and how you plan to address their concerns. Offer to pay for as much as you can. You may not be able to pay for everything, but offering to contribute to the cost of a cat shows you're serious about getting one. Imagine you only have $50, but a cat costs $100. You could say, “Mom, I really want a cat, but the ones at the shelter cost about $100. If I pay for $50, could you cover the other half?” Or, you could offer to pay for the initial cost of the cat and ask your parents to help you out with the annual expenses. Make a deal to get better grades or do more chores. Maybe if you get straight A's next quarter, your parents will let you get a cat. Or, offer to do extra chores from now on. Whatever you and your parents agree to, stick with it. It'll show you're ready for the responsibility of being a cat owner. You could say, “If I get an A in math next quarter, which will take a lot of work because it's one of my hardest subjects, will you let me get a cat? I want to show you how committed I am.” Remain calm during the conversation. If you lose your temper, your chances of convincing your parents will be slim. Try to stay calm and avoid getting defensive, even if your parents give you a firm no. If you feel yourself getting riled up, take a few deep, slow breaths. If you can't calm down, ask your parents if you can finish the conversation later. Give your parents a few days to think before answering. If you pressure your parents for a quick response, they're more likely to say no. Instead, give them a few days to think about their answer. Say, “Don't answer right away. I'd appreciate it if you'd take a little while to think before getting back to me.” Be respectful if your parents say no. Saying something like, “You always say no!” or “I never get anything I want!” definitely won't help your case. If you get a no, accept it for now and try asking again later. Responding maturely now increases the chance that your parents will change their minds in the future. Ask your parents why they said no. Maybe you can figure out ways to turn that no into a yes! Do what they ask without complaining. Showing you're responsible can be majorly helpful in convincing your parents to let you get a cat. Start by doing your chores or making your bed when they ask without whining or groaning. Don't wait, either. Do what they ask right away. Stay calm during arguments. When arguments arise, handle them as calmly and maturely as possible. Avoid yelling, whining, or interrupting your parents. Listen carefully to what your parents say, and be willing to compromise. If you want to go out with friends but your dad wants you to stay home for family night, don't launch into a dramatic refrain of “It's not fair!” Instead, offer to spend half the night with the family, and half the night with your friends. Keep your promises. When you commit to something, follow through. If you told your mom that you'd finish your homework before going over to your friend's house, make sure you do. If you can keep your promise to babysit your sister or make your curfew, you're parents will be more convinced that you can keep your promise to take care of your cat. Take initiative when things need to get done. If you see a sink full of dirty dishes or crumbs on the floor, don't wait for your parents to pester you. Clean up the mess without being asked. You'll show your parents just how responsible you can be. Do nice things without being asked. Help your little sister with her homework, fold some laundry, or make dinner for your family. These little acts of kindness will show you're mature and can handle a cat. Don't parade around saying “Look at how good I'm being!” Quietly doing nice things for your family will be much more meaningful, and shows greater maturity. | Ask your parents why they don’t want a cat. Make a weekly cat care schedule. Research the cost of adoption and care. Save money to pay for your cat and cat-related expenses. Create a presentation or speech about the benefits of cat ownership. Practice your presentation or speech ahead of time. If a family member has an allergy, then having them consider getting a hypoallergenic cat might be a good idea. Pick an appropriate time to talk. Start by expressing appreciation for all your parents do for you. Present your research to your parents. Offer to pay for as much as you can. Make a deal to get better grades or do more chores. Remain calm during the conversation. Give your parents a few days to think before answering. Be respectful if your parents say no. Do what they ask without complaining. Stay calm during arguments. Keep your promises. Take initiative when things need to get done. Do nice things without being asked. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Search-Property-Records | How to Search Property Records | You can find many property records by searching online. In the US, try searching for the zip code in the Public Records Online Directory to find a property's tax records. Alternatively, go to the local Tax Assessor's office and give them the owner's name or property address. Property deeds are often available online. Try searching for “Recorder of Deeds,” with the name of the county. Or, go to the county or city office and ask where you can access physical records of property deeds. If you're looking for the property's value and build year, search real estate record websites, like Realtor or Trulia, or do an online search for the property address. | Find the correct office. Each town or municipality should make property tax information public. In most places, the office will be the Tax Assessor's office. To find the correct office, call city hall. Many towns and municipalities have put their property tax records online. In the U.S., you can visit http://publicrecords.netronline.com/ to find links to government websites. Click on your state or enter your zip code. Gather helpful information. You'll need to search for property records using any of the following information, which you should gather ahead of time: The owner's name. The property's address. In some offices, you can search by a range of addresses, e.g., 1100-1199 Central. Most searches will not recognize the street type, such as Ave. Blvd., St., etc, so leave those out when you search. The parcel number. This number might be on the deed or another document and is often the most effective way to search. Keep in mind that some addresses may have more than one parcel. Search for tax records. You might be able to search a computer or you might need to look in books. Ask someone at the office to help you find what you are looking for. Since property tax records are public, staff should be willing to help. The county website may not allow you to search using the owner's name. If you find the property, though, the owner's name will generally appear in the record, allowing you to verify that you have the correct property. If you know the street name but not the property's street numbers, you may still be able to search by inputting the street name and looking through the resulting records until you find the corresponding owner's name. Review the information contained in the record. The property tax record should contain the total tax assessed, the assessed value of the land and any buildings, and any exemptions. The tax record may change if a sale is significantly higher than the last sold value. It may also change if the tax is being reduced due to entitled classes of people who own the property, such as senior citizens or a disabled individual. Identify the county where the land is located. In the Unites States, deeds are recorded in county offices, so you first need to identify the county where the property is located. If the parcel straddles more than one county, identify which county contains most of the parcel. Find out the name of the owner. You can generally search for deeds by the owner's name. If you don't know the name, stop into the tax assessor's office and use the address to get the name of the owner. Visit the appropriate county office. Deeds are kept in the county Recorder of Deeds office. This office might go by another name, such as Register of Deeds or Commissioner of Deeds. In some counties, the clerk of court will keep land records. Find the appropriate office by looking in your phone book or stopping into your county or city office. Ask where you need to go. Many counties now provide their records online. Find the website by searching for your county's name and “Recorder of Deeds.” Search for the deed. There might be computers located at the office. In some offices, you'll be able to get a PDF of the deed by searching on the computer. However, other offices will tell you what book and page the deed appears in. You then have to go through the leather-bound volumes to find the deed. Ask staff how you can get a copy of the deed. Typically, you'll need to pay to make copies. The amount will vary by office. Review the deed. A deed will be notarized and contain a wealth of information about a piece of property. Check the following: The legal description of property. Generally, this will be a metes and bounds description that reads something like, “A certain tract of land situated in Piscataquis County, on the right descending bank of the Piscataquis River, north 45 degrees east 100 feet to a rock outcropping….” If the description has been recorded in a plat it will show the plat subdivision and the phase of building. A plat map will show the property boundaries and location within the subdivision, along with the length and width of the lot. Any liens or mortgages on the property. Any encumbrance, such as an easement. For example, someone might have a right to use the property's driveway. A lis pendens notice if the property is in foreclosure, or has another relevant lien against it. Find real estate records. When a house is put on the market, there should be an online listing. You can use the listing to find out the price and other information, such as the year the house was built or the lot size. Realtor.com and Trulia.com are two well-known websites you can use for free. You can also search a real estate agent's individual website, or check on their social media accounts. Use free websites. Some websites will provide basic property information for free. Be careful. Some websites, such as peoplefinders.com, advertise “free” searches. However, they will charge you before you can access the information. Search for “free property records search” and carefully review the websites. Search for property records using paid websites. There are plenty of websites that gather information from counties and townships and then sell it to the public. Always research how much it will cost to run a search and just what information you will be getting. You can get this information yourself by stopping into the Tax Assessor or Recorder of Deeds offices. However, you might want to use a website to save you time. | Find the correct office. Gather helpful information. Search for tax records. Review the information contained in the record. Identify the county where the land is located. Find out the name of the owner. Visit the appropriate county office. Search for the deed. Review the deed. Find real estate records. Use free websites. Search for property records using paid websites. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Salute-Like-a-Soldier | How to Salute Like a Soldier | To salute like a soldier, start by standing up straight and facing the person or flag you're saluting. Then, raise your right hand up to your eyebrow, keeping your bicep parallel to the ground and your forearm at a 45-degree angle. Next, hold the salute until you're told "At ease," or until the last note is played if you're saluting a song like the National Anthem. Finally, lower your hand back down to your side. | Stand up straight. Use your best posture when saluting. Don't hunch over or let your shoulders droop. Stand with your arms straight and flat at your side and fingers pointed at the ground. Face the flag or person you are saluting. Turn your head and eyes toward the person or flag you are saluting. If you are saluting a person, it is respectful to maintain eye contact. The person of lower rank should initiate the salute. By initiating the salute, the officer is not implying he is in anyway inferior to the superior. It is just a showing of respect and camaraderie. Bring your right arm up to the correct position. Bring your arm up so the bottom of your bicep is parallel to the ground. Your arm should remain straight, so your elbow is in a straight line with your shoulders. A well-executed salute is a crisp, singular movement. Once you use a salute on a daily basis, it will become reflexive. Raise your hand up to your brow. Keep the outer edge of the hand barely canted downward so that neither the back of the hand nor the palm is clearly visible from the front. The hand and wrist are straight, the elbow inclined slightly forward, and the forearm is at a 45-degree angle to the ground. Keep your fingers and thumb straight and in line with each other. Modify the salute as appropriate for the headgear you are wearing. While the basic steps of the salute are quite similar, there are some small adaptations that you should make depending upon whether you are wearing headgear or glasses. When wearing headgear with a visor (with or without glasses): At the command "arms," you will salute with your right hand, touching the tip of your index finger to the rim of the visor, slightly above your right eye. If you are not wearing glasses and are wearing no headgear, or headgear without a visor, you will use the same precise movements, only you will touch your finger to the forehead, beside the outer edge of your right eyebrow. When wearing glasses, with no headgear or headgear without a visor: This time, you will touch the tip of your right forefinger to your glasses. Touch the part of the frame where the temple piece of the frame meets the right edge of the right brow. Hold the salute. You should hold the salute until the commanding officer gives the "At ease" order. During the National Anthem or other appropriate songs, you should hold the salute until the last note. Accompany the salute with an appropriate greeting. Saying "Good morning, Sir," or something along those lines is encouraged when you salute a superior. Perform the salute, then greet the soldier while holding the salute. If you are reporting to the officer, you should identify yourself and state that you are reporting. For example, "Sir, Private Jones reports." Lower your hand. Bring your hand directly down to its natural position at your side when dropping the salute. Do not slap your leg or move your hand out to the side. Any flourish in the salute is improper. If you perform a salute that is at all showy or lazy, it can be perceived as being a greater insult than not performing a salute at all. Recognize the appropriate personnel by saluting. It is important to know who you are required or expected to salute. Always salute the President of the United States. Perform a salute to any commissioned and warrant officers. Salute all Medal of Honor recipients, regardless of rank. Salute officers of friendly foreign nations. Perform a salute during appropriate events. Perform a salute during the National Anthem. You should also salute during renditions of "To the Color," "Hail to the Chief," or other foreign national anthems are played. To an unfurled national flag outdoors. Perform a salute when the flag is about six feet away, and hold the salute until the flag is six feet past you. Salute during appropriate ceremonies. This includes military funerals, change of command ceremonies, and reveille and retreat ceremonies when the flag is raised and lowered. Perform a salute during the sounding of honors. Salute during the Pledge of Allegiance. Salute when rendering reports. When you see officers in official vehicles. Do not perform a salute when it is not practical or against regulations. Do not salute indoors unless reporting to a superior officer. Do not salute when your hands are occupied or it is impractical to salute. In such instances, a greeting can be used in place of the salute. Do not salute when operating a moving vehicle. Use good judgment in public areas. Salutes are unnecessary if you encounter a superior officer on a train or at a bus station. Soldiers on a work detail or playing a game should not stop their activity to perform a salute. Do not salute an NCO (non-commissioned officer). Salute British soldiers with your palm facing away from your body. The hand should almost be touching the hat brim. British army and air force soldier perform this solute, however, the navy salutes with the palm turned down at a 90-degree angle. Use a two-fingered salute to recognize Polish military. Polish military perform a salute identical to the more common hand salute, however, the ring and pinky fingers are not extended. Use a Zogist Salute to recognize Albanian troops. This gesture is also used to salute flags in Mexico and parts of Latin America. The Zogist Salute is performed by extending the arm in front of the body and bringing the hand to the chest in a chopping motion. The hand is held against the chest with the palm facing down and parallel to the ground. | Stand up straight. Face the flag or person you are saluting. Bring your right arm up to the correct position. Raise your hand up to your brow. Modify the salute as appropriate for the headgear you are wearing. Hold the salute. Accompany the salute with an appropriate greeting. Lower your hand. Recognize the appropriate personnel by saluting. Perform a salute during appropriate events. Do not perform a salute when it is not practical or against regulations. Salute British soldiers with your palm facing away from your body. Use a two-fingered salute to recognize Polish military. Use a Zogist Salute to recognize Albanian troops. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-a-Levi%27s-Style-Number | How to Find a Levi's Style Number | To find a Levi's style number, check the lower left-hand corner of the label on the back of your jeans and look for a 3 digit number starting with 5. Alternatively, look at the care tag on the inside of the waist, which should include the style number. If your jeans don't have either of these tags, you can determine the style number by examining the color tab to figure out what collection your pants belong to. For example, red and white color tabs are mostly used on 501s, while a blue tab is used to identify jeans in the premium line, Levi's Made and Crafted. For jeans with no tags or tab, contact a Levi's historian online to get more information. | Look for the label on the back waistband of your jeans. The leather or cardstock label should feature the Levi's symbol of 2 horses pulling at a pair of jeans. In fact, this iconic label is known as the Two Horse patch. The company was called “The Two Horse Brand” from 1873 until 1928, when it trademarked the Levi's name. In the 1950s, the leather patch was replaced with heavy cardstock to decrease the manufacturing cost per pair. Check the lower left-hand corner of the Two Horse label for the style number. Although some very early pairs of jeans did not have a lot number or style number on the label, it should be included on any jeans manufactured after the late 1930s. The style numbers are 3 digits and usually start with 5. The opening 5 in the style number indicates that the jeans are Levi's highest quality. The two horses are meant to symbolize the strength of the jeans' rivets. Look at the tag inside the jeans for the style number if the label is faded. In modern Levi's, the style number is often included on the care tag inside the jeans. The presence of a care tag can also help you date your jeans, since they started being added in the 1970s. Compare your jeans to other Levi's. Although the leg opening and fit of Levi's jeans changes slightly to adapt to trends, their style remains fairly consistent. Examine your jeans carefully and compare them to other styles to see which they resemble most closely. The classic 501 is known as the Original Fit, and features a straight leg and classic fit. The 505, or Regular Fit, has a straight leg and a loose fit, and are the style that Mick Jagger wore on the cover of the Rolling Stones' album Sticky Fingers in 1971. The 517 features a casual boot cut, and fits slightly slimmer through the leg. Check the color tab. The red tab with the white Levi's logo (or a simple trademark symbol) is immediately identifiable, but this is mostly used on 501s and their denim jackets. Other style numbers might use different colored tabs, so check to see what your pair has. In the 1960s, Levi's used an orange tab to label their fashion denim, including bellbottoms, shirts, hats, and accessories. Orange tabs are still sometimes used in vintage reproductions. A dark-colored tab with an orange carrot is the signature of Levi's Fresh Produce line from the 1970s. A blue tab denotes Levi's premium line, Levi's Made and Crafted. A silver tab was used starting in the late 1980s for Levi's baggy jeans. Try to determine the date of your Levi’s. Levi's jeans have undergone numerous changes since they were introduced in 1873. Look for small details that can help you determine when they were made. In 1941, Levi's dropped the rivet from the crotch of their jeans because it had a tendency to get too hot when the wearer sat beside a campfire. During WWII, Levi's backed the war effort by removing rivets and decorative stitching from their jeans. The stitching on the back pockets, known as the arcuate, was painted on instead. Jeans made after 1971 will have a lowercase “e” on their red tab. Prior to this, the logo had an uppercase “e.” Check with Levi’s historians if your vintage jeans don’t have a label. Levi's have a huge following all around the world. Some people specialize in the history of denim, especially the Levi's brand. Contact a historian if you can not determine the style number on your own. Search local directories to see if there are any vintage shops near you which might specialize in Levi's denim. Check the historian archives on Levi's website. http://www.levistrauss.com/unzipped-blog/tag/historian/ Find forums online that center around vintage fashion. Browse their resources for Levi's-specific information or use the message boards to ask questions about your jeans. | Look for the label on the back waistband of your jeans. Check the lower left-hand corner of the Two Horse label for the style number. Look at the tag inside the jeans for the style number if the label is faded. Compare your jeans to other Levi's. Check the color tab. Try to determine the date of your Levi’s. Check with Levi’s historians if your vintage jeans don’t have a label. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Virgin-Pina-Colada | How to Make a Virgin Pina Colada | To make a virgin piña colada, add 4 ounces cream of coconut, 4 ounces pineapple juice, and 2 cups of ice to your blender. Blend this mixture until it is creamy and then garnish with a pineapple slice and maraschino cherry. For a banana piña colada, blend 4 ounces of coconut cream, 8 ounces of pineapple juice, and 2 cups of ice until it smooth. Then, add 8 ounces of freshly chopped pineapple chunks and 2 bananas and blend again. This recipe makes 2 portions and should be about the texture of a smoothie. Serve and enjoy! | Put the cream of coconut, ice, and pineapple juice in a blender. This drink comes together quickly when you add all the ingredients at once. Reserve the pineapple slices, though - those are for the garnish. Blend until the ice is crushed. It might take several pulses to get the creamy texture of a classic piña colada. Pour it into two glasses. You can use hurricane glasses for a festive feel. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry. Float the pineapple rings on top of the drinks and put the cherries in the middle of the rings. Finished. Blend the ice, pineapple juice and coconut milk. Pulse the blender until the mixture is nice and smooth. Keep going until it's rich and creamy. Add the bananas and pineapple chunks. Pulse again to blend the mixture together until it has a smoothie-like texture. Pour it into two glasses. Since this banana piña colada is almost like a smoothie, you could pour it into two tall glasses. Add a couple of straws to make it easier to drink. Garnish with sliced pineapple. The drink will look more festive if you place a few pineapple rings on the edge of the glasses. Blend the ice, coconut cream and pineapple juice. Keep pulsing until it's completely smooth and creamy. Add the berries. You can use strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or a combination of all three! Blend the berries with the creamy base to create a colorful drink. Pour it into two glasses. Use clear glasses so you can appreciate the pretty color of your fruity piña colada. Garnish with a few sliced berries on top. Enjoy your drink with a straw. | Put the cream of coconut, ice, and pineapple juice in a blender. Blend until the ice is crushed. Pour it into two glasses. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry. Finished. Blend the ice, pineapple juice and coconut milk. Add the bananas and pineapple chunks. Pour it into two glasses. Garnish with sliced pineapple. Blend the ice, coconut cream and pineapple juice. Add the berries. Pour it into two glasses. Garnish with a few sliced berries on top. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Occupational-Therapist | How to Become an Occupational Therapist | To become an occupational therapist, you'll need to enjoy working with people and helping others who are suffering from injuries or illnesses. Also, do well in school and plan on eventually getting your master's degree since you'll need it to practice in an entry-level position. Once you complete your program and pass the exam, you'll be able to work as an occupational therapist through a government agency, a non-profit, a hospital, or your own private practice. | Gain a degree. A career in occupational therapy requires a master's degree for entry level, although many people also earn a doctoral degree. Therapists must pass an initial certifying exam given by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, and be licensed by their state. Each state has its own continuing education requirements. The American Occupational Therapy Association offers more information for potential students on its website at www.aota.org. Every occupational therapy program has different requirements, but most will require you to have previous coursework in biology and/or physiology in order to apply. Biology, psychology, and sociology are among the most common undergraduate majors to have for those planning to enter an occupational therapy program. Verify the requirements for your occupational therapy program of choice before you finish your undergraduate work. That way, you can be sure to complete all the preliminaries you need by the time you earn your bachelor's degree. Complete an accredited occupational therapy program. Most programs are two years in length and result in a master's degree, but longer, more extensive doctoral programs are also available. All require both Level I and Level II Fieldwork to obtain clinical experience. Fieldwork is supervised and usually lasts for roughly 24 weeks. The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc., has a complete list of accredited occupational therapy programs. This list is available on their website. Note that some schools offer dual programs that result in the simultaneous completion of a bachelor's and master's degree. These programs usually take five years to complete. Additionally, there are online programs available through some schools. Pass the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapists exam. All states require occupational therapists to have a license, and prospective therapists must have certification from the NBCOT in order to obtain a license. Apply for a license in your state and pay any necessary fees. Specific requirements and fees vary by state and may change from year to year, so you should look up the requirements from the occupational therapy licensure board for the state you plan to work in. Some states only require prospective occupational therapists to pay a fee and complete the NBCOT exam, as well as the prerequisites necessary to take the exam. For instance, in New York, you must have completed an accredited Occupational Therapist Program earning an entry-level master's degree or post-baccalaureate certificate, finished at least six months of supervised field work, and passed the NBCOT with a score of 450 or higher. Other states require prospective occupational therapists to pay a fee, complete the NBCOT exam, and pass a state-specific written exam or questionnaire. First-time license applicants in Texas, for example, take an online, open-book Jurisprudence Exam that covers rules and regulations specific to the state. A few states also grant leeway to applicants who were previously licensed in another state. Occupational therapists must still apply for a new state license before working in a different state, but some states permit previously licensed applicants to work under limited conditions while the application process progresses. In California, applicants can work in association with a California-licensed therapist up to 60 days after applying for a state license. In New York, applicants can work under the same conditions up to one year. Fees vary by state, but first-time applicants usually end up paying a couple hundred dollars. In Texas, the fee as of 2012 was $140, but in New York, the fee was $294. Work through a government agency. Occupational therapy jobs can be found in the public sector at the federal, state, and local levels, but these jobs are most common at the state and local levels. Use an online database of government positions. Do a search for "occupational therapist" positions and browse through the results until you find one located in a state that you can practice in or wish to practice in. Contact local and state agencies directly. If there is a specific agency you wish to work at, call your local branch and inquire about current or future positions. The most common government agencies and offices in need of occupational therapists are state hospitals, state nursing homes, branches of the military, offices of veterans' affairs, and public schools. Work through a non-profit. Most therapy-oriented non-profits are charities run for those who cannot otherwise afford proper care. These charities usually work with patients to relieve pain and evaluate future needs. Search in the phone book or online for charitable occupational therapy opportunities in your area. You can find job openings using most major job search websites or by searching through the Yellow Pages for existing occupational therapist offices or charities. Consider a career with children. Most non-profit occupational therapy jobs involve working with children, especially when those children have chronic and costly medical conditions or come from low-income families. Prepare to make home visits. While many non-profits work from a centralized location, some also offer home visitation services for patients who must struggle in order to leave the house. Work for an agency, hospital, or clinic. As the population ages there's an increased need for occupational therapists to help older adults age safely in their homes, by managing chronic disease, and adapting to low vision, cognitive issues, and other changes associated with aging. Set up your own private practice. Occupational therapists often operate as doctors do, working in their own private practices through private hospitals or from an independent medical office. Take business courses. You do not need a business degree, but having one wouldn't hurt, either. At the very least, you should take a few entrepreneurial courses and business finance or accounting classes to gain an understanding of the business side of things. Essentially, you'll be running your own business, so you need to have a thorough understanding of what that entails. Find out about state and local regulations. Aside from needing to be licensed as an occupational therapist, you will also need to meet zoning regulations, building codes, and various health and safety codes. Determine your field of specialty. A general occupational therapist will work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, but you can also specialize in pediatric or geriatric care. Get the word out. Once you start your practice, you will need to attract patients. One of the best ways to do so is by forming professional relationships with area doctors who may be willing to refer in-need patients to your office. Know how often you need to renew your license. Regulations vary by state, but most states will require occupational therapists to renew their licenses every two years. In Texas, therapists must renew their licenses every two years after the year the license was first issued. In California, a license must be renewed every two years based on the holder's year of birth. Someone born in an even year will always renew in an even year, but someone born in an odd year will always renew in an odd year. In Pennsylvania, licenses always expire in odd-numbered years. Similarly, in Virginia, licenses always expire in even-numbered years. States will usually send out notifications to let you know that your license needs to be renewed, but you will be responsible for renewing it even if the notice does not arrive. Continue your education. Each state has its own requirements for continuing education. Usually, renewal of a license requires a therapist to complete a certain number of Professional Development Units (PDUs). In California, practitioners must complete 24 PDUs. These PDUs usually involve things like performing professional services, attending workshops and classes, making presentations, doing fieldwork supervision, and publishing academically. In Texas, continued education must include 30 credit hours of courses and practical experience that goes beyond standard practice. Practitioners must also retake to Jurisprudence Exam. Pay the necessary fee. Renewal fees vary by state. You can look up the renewal fees for your state online or by contacting the division of professional licensing for your state via telephone. In Texas, renewal fees total $242. In California, the fee is only $150. Some fees are even lower, however. For instance, Pennsylvania only charges a $55 fee for renewal. | Gain a degree. Complete an accredited occupational therapy program. Pass the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapists exam. Apply for a license in your state and pay any necessary fees. Work through a government agency. Work through a non-profit. Work for an agency, hospital, or clinic. Set up your own private practice. Know how often you need to renew your license. Continue your education. Pay the necessary fee. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Funnel-or-Cone-from-Paper | How to Make a Funnel or Cone from Paper | To make a funnel or cone from paper, start by tracing a wide triangle onto a sheet of paper. Make sure the two shorter sides are the exact same length, then cut the triangle out. Next, take one of the far corners and roll it into the center so the paper's edge is touching the middle of the triangle. Hold that in place, then use your other hand to bring in the opposite corner, rolling it overtop so it wraps around the other corner. Fold the loose edges into the cone's opening, then secure it with a strip of tape along the cone's inside seam. | Make a paper disk. The height of your cone will be determined by the radius of your circle. The larger the radius, the taller the cone. You can print the template in the document above, and trace the shape onto the paper you want to use. If you choose to make your own disc, do your best to make the shape as round as possible. Improper measurements will have a big effect on your cone's result. It's a good idea to put extra effort into making the circle as round as possible. For your disk shape, you can also use a compass, or trace a round object, such as a lid or container. Draw a triangle wedge. Use the template to cut out two sides from the circle to make your wedge. To draw your own wedge, make a mark in the center of the disc. Draw out two straight lines from the center point to make a wedge with your ruler. If the lines are closer together it will make a smaller wedge which will result in a cone with a broad bottom. Use a compass protractor to pinpoint the centre of your disc if you're unsure where to place your dot. If you're using a protractor tool to outline the disc to begin with, it can save you time to make the centre dot before you trace the disc around it. You can also draw your own triangle wedge using a ruler and pencil. Cut the triangle wedge out of the circle. To make a cone with a small bottom, cut out a larger triangle wedge. Use scissors or a precision knife to cut out your wedge as straight as possible. If you run into any cutting mishaps, you will probably need to start over again. Bring the cut sides of your disc together. For your cone shape, bring one cut end of your disc over to the other in a cone shape. Hold it together and make sure the lower ridge of both sides overlap evenly. With this, your disc should have the desired cone shape you're looking for. Unfurl the paper and try again if the sides don't meet properly at first. Don't make firm creases in your paper. Your cone should be rounded. Tape the inside of the cone closed. Once you tape the two sides side by side so that the paper makes a cone. Tape the inside of the cone by bridging the two sides so that they slightly overlap and bridging the overlap with tape. With that done, your cone should be ready to go. One straight piece of tape will give your cone the best stability. Multiple pieces of tape inside will make a mess. It is helpful to have one hand applying the tape while the other holds the shape of the cone. Cut out a wide triangle. If the common disc method isn't to your liking, you can make a cone shape starting out with a paper triangle. In order for it to be rolled properly into a cone, there must be one long side, and two shorter sides of equal length. The bigger the triangle, the bigger your cone will be. Take care to make your measurements and cuts as accurate as possible. Slight errors can make your cone lopsided, or, worse still, too short to tape around. Similarly, you can make the same process work with a half-circle. A half-circle will result in a smoother top. If you don't want to make measurements yourself, triangle templates are available. Make sure you're using a template with one long side and two shorter sides of equal length. Roll the far corners of your paper into the centre. Take one of the far corners and roll it into the centre so that the paper's edge is touching the middle of your triangle. With your other hand, bring the other corner and roll it overtop so that it wraps around the other corner. When this is complete, you should have a general shape of a cone in place. If you're having difficulty rolling the corners together, it may be that you didn't cut your triangle out wide enough. The far corners are the opposite ends of the wide triangle. Hold the first corner roll in place while you roll the other corner. One hand should be used for each corner. Make adjustments to your cone. Unless the rolls were perfect, chances are you'll have to shift the paper around a bit in order to make the cone even. Tighten the rolled folds as necessary. If you think you rolled the two corner folds unevenly, feel free to try again. If there are excess lengths of paper jutting out from the cone shape, it may be that your original sheet wasn't an even shape. If this is the case, you can keep moving forward by cutting off any excess with a precision knife. So long as you have an even base for your cone, people won't be able to notice mishaps you had in the process of making it. It's a fairly quick process, so it pays to do it a few times until you get it right. Fold the loose edges into the cone's opening. Excess flaps of paper should be folded into the cone. This makes the cone look smother, and also helps the folds hold their form. If the rolls have been done correctly, there should at least be a triangular end that should be folded inward. If for whatever reason you don't have enough paper to fold over, you can get over this issue by running a strip of tape across the base, from the outside to the inside of your cone. Try squeezing or loosening your grip on the cone if the folding slot isn't apparent enough. Tape the cone. Although folding your loose edges should stabilize the cone's shape, taping the seam inside the cone will help ensure it holds. Take a strip of tape and line it up along the seam. If you think there's still a risk of it falling apart, take additional strips and line them across the top and middle of the seam. With taping done, you should have a functional cone. The loose edge can be taped down as well. Choose the right paper. If you have a solid idea what you're making a cone for beforehand, it helps to consider the material you'll be using. Certain types of paper suit certain projects better than others. Printer paper is fine for purely decorative cones. It offers a lot of potential to be coloured or drawn on. A thick construction paper is best if you're making party hats. Parchment paper is a good choice if you're making a funnel to bake with. Cut off the tip for a funnel. If you're making a cone for the sake of baking, a funnel is needed. Take a pair of scissors and cut the tip off. From that opening, you'll be able to control the pour of icing or syrup by squeezing the funnel. If your funnel hole isn't big enough, you can try to cut it again. Keep in mind, however, that the higher you cut up the cone will result in an exponentially bigger funnel hole. It's best to keep your funnel cutting careful and restrained. Draw a pattern on your cone. If you're making a decorative cone or a party hat, it's fun to add a pattern. Take your favourite pencil crayons or markers and draw something. Patterns (like jagged edges or swirls) are best for a cone, but you can also draw words on it. For the sake of a party hat or dunce cap, writing a word (like "Happy Birthday") can help to specify the cone to the given occasion. Draw a pattern in with pencil first if you're worried about making mistakes. It may be easier to draw your pattern on the paper before you make it into a cone. Look up ideas for added inspiration. There are countless ways you could go about decorating a paper cone. Although you should try coming up with ideas yourself, it can be inspiring to look up creative projects other people have done. Experiment with different cone-making techniques. Decorate your cone with a fresh type of material. The possibilities with home crafts are endless. | Make a paper disk. Draw a triangle wedge. Cut the triangle wedge out of the circle. Bring the cut sides of your disc together. Tape the inside of the cone closed. Cut out a wide triangle. Roll the far corners of your paper into the centre. Make adjustments to your cone. Fold the loose edges into the cone's opening. Tape the cone. Choose the right paper. Cut off the tip for a funnel. Draw a pattern on your cone. Look up ideas for added inspiration. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Structure-a-Dissertation | How to Structure a Dissertation | In general, structure a dissertation by opening with a short introduction explaining your research, and follow that with your literature review. In the methodology section, restate the purpose of your study, describe any participants, and describe how you conducted your research. Follow that with the results of the research, divided into chapters. Conclude your dissertation by describing the importance of your findings, and how those findings relate to the questions you set out to answer. | Start your dissertation content with a short introduction. This introduction should present the scope of your research, while it also establishes the need for your research. It should expand upon the abstract's summary. The introduction should include any context or background information that the reader needs in order to understand your research. Writing the introduction after the rest of the content can sometimes be a good way of ensuring the introduction covers everything. Write the literature review. The literature review should be beneficial to both the layman and the expert. It should cover the literature related to your concept, link literature similar to your own, and demonstrate the issues related to your chosen research. If your research improves upon or clarifies a specific flaw in previous research, be sure to highlight the importance of your original content. The literature review should also pinpoint wherever previous research conflicts. Demonstrate why your dissertation has merit. A dissertation should be written because there is a knowledge gap of some kind in the industry. Explain how your dissertation fills the gap, and why the information is even needed. The dissertation should prove to be original. Given their respective experience, your advisors should be able to provide considerable guidance on the dissertation topic choice, and how to prevent a certain degree of redundancy. Consider if your dissertation really interests you. The work will take a considerable amount of time and losing interest will make research difficult. Restate the purpose of your study. The purpose of the methodology section is to demonstrate the manner in which data was collected. As such, the majority of the following sections will fill in necessary details. The explanation does not have to be elaborate, but it should prepare the reader for the upcoming, detailed methodology. Describe any participants. If applicable, the description of any people who take part in your study should be extremely thorough. Each person should be identifiable within the research. Further, how people join and leave the study should be noted. If people were selected at random, or if they were family members, is important to the study. Be sure to consider various ethical concerns (e.g. risk and consent of participants) if people are involved in your research. Explain all tools related to measurement. If you have developed a new method of measurement, something like a survey or questionnaire, explicitly state every single detail about it. If an already established metric is being used, be sure to reference it where applicable. Once the tool(s) are noted, be sure to capture all pertinent information, such as the following: Describe the format of captured data. Identify all scores obtained by the tools. Note which techniques were used to administer the measurements. Describe your research design. Break down all the details of how it will take place from beginning to end. Define all variables and all scenarios so that anyone wishing to do so could reproduce your procedures and entire study. Include potential reasons the research validity could be threatened. For instance, a study related to happiness could be affected by weather or a participant's family problem. Breakdown the finite details so there are no holes if someone were to attempt duplication. List the results of the research. It is not necessary to include all results discovered through the research. Only the most relevant to the dissertation's scope and research are necessary. Do not interpret the research. If there are significant findings or data, that should be left for the later portion of the dissertation where everything is explained. Cross-reference text with pertinent visual aids (i.e. figures, graphs, tables). Divide results into chapters. The dissertation should be organized so that chapters are focused on a specific question. The questions could be wide-ranging, based on a thought-process, an aspect of your methodology, or other issue related to the research. Be sure the chapters not only address t he questions, but answers them. Develop your argument. Once the research is done, the chapters should support a central idea you're attempting to make. They should support what you are attempting to prove through your detailed research and methodology. Help support your argument by avoiding debatable statements related to the chapter's questions. A few examples follow: Debatable – Approximately 60% of the voters supported the referendum. Non-debatable – Microprocessors are smaller today than they were 10 years ago. Conclude your dissertation. Present the importance of your findings within the context of your overall research. Without a solid conclusion, it could appear that the research is poorly conducted, or perhaps the author doesn't understand the results of the dissertation. Be sure to clarify how the conclusions relate to the questions posed prior to research and related results. Pose directions for further research. Inevitably, your research will not be perfect. As such, you should propose how to solve the flaws in future research. There could be unanticipated results upon which you could suggest related future research. There may also be anticipated results that didn't materialize. You can suggest a more narrow focus of your research that someone in the future could follow to answer the unanswered question. Gauge the effectiveness of your dissertation. It's important for the conclusion to also lay out the strengths and weaknesses of the research. Display where limitations exist, and why those limitations may affect the results. The purpose of focusing on limitations is to display the command you have over your research, why there may have been difficulties, how important the limitations are to your arguments, and justification for the choices made during your research. You know the limitations better than any. Be sure to clearly propose corrections to current limitations in future research. Discuss your dissertation with your committee. Ultimately, the dissertation is structured how your advisor and committee decide. Ensure you understand what your field and your department require in a dissertation. You may also want to read approved dissertations from past students to gain a better understanding of how to structure a dissertation in your field. Find out if there is a word limit, and which parts of your dissertation (e.g. references, tables, abstract) are included in the word-count. Determine which material should be included or excluded. There may be specifics on what is acceptable. Ask which materials are less important in the committee's opinion, and should be demoted from main content to appendices. Create a title page. The title page may be specific to your university, maybe even your department or discipline. In general, however, it should be in all capital letters, with centered margins. Exclude page numbers, but the following attributes are usually a part of the dissertation title page: The dissertation title is at the top. The dissertation statement or purpose, which includes the degree for which the dissertation will be submitted, follows the title. The name of the person submitting the dissertation, and the date of submission, are the final pieces. Construct your abstract. The abstract should summarize the dissertation and explain why the research is significant. Include your study's background first. Next, breakdown both the methods and findings of the research. Finally, clearly explain all conclusions to the research. Each section should have enough words to provide sufficient information, but the overall length of the abstract should be no more than 350 words. Because the abstract needs to be a high-level summary, avoid using quotes or references in this section. The only exception is if you base your dissertation upon another's work. In that situation, it's appropriate to mention the work upon which yours rests. One recommendation is to include a note or two devoted to each portion (e.g. introduction, methodology, conclusion) of the subsequent dissertation. Include acknowledgments after the abstract. On the page following the abstract, thank those who made your dissertation possible. Sometimes this section acknowledges only a handful of individuals; sometimes it's more than a page long. From inspiring people to proof-readers, all manner of people can be thanked in whatever method desired. The dissertation acknowledgements are not necessarily mandatory, but they provide a great opportunity for the writer to really thank those who have influenced and aided in the arduous dissertation process. Present a full table of contents. Following the acknowledgments, start the content page(s) on a new sheet. Include both the sections of your dissertation and its sub-sections. It should also include the acknowledgement page. Center the words TABLE OF CONTENTS at the top of the page. Make sure you right align the page numbers. Cite all of your references. Sometimes a bibliography is used, where all references, even those uncited, are listed. There are multiple possible structures in which the sources can be cited. Be sure to clarify beforehand whether your references should be in APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago style. Finish with any appendices. The point of appendices is to include material that may not directly tie into your research, or information that has been referred to in the results of the dissertation. The appendices should be supplementary in nature, and not superfluous. Exceedingly large items like questionnaires and robust tables are perfect appendix inclusions. Appendices aren't typically included in word counts. Be sure to ask the committee or your advisor to clarify. | Start your dissertation content with a short introduction. Write the literature review. Demonstrate why your dissertation has merit. Restate the purpose of your study. Describe any participants. Explain all tools related to measurement. Describe your research design. List the results of the research. Divide results into chapters. Develop your argument. Conclude your dissertation. Pose directions for further research. Gauge the effectiveness of your dissertation. Discuss your dissertation with your committee. Create a title page. Construct your abstract. Include acknowledgments after the abstract. Present a full table of contents. Cite all of your references. Finish with any appendices. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Turn-Sunburn-Into-a-Tan | How to Turn Sunburn Into a Tan | If you want to turn your sunburn into a tan, start by cooling your skin with a cold compress or a cool shower or bath to reduce swelling and redness. You can also apply aloe vera gel to your skin to get the same effects. Once you've cooled your skin down, consider using a topical steroid ointment every few hours to help heal your damaged skin. Alternatively, you can fill a spray bottle with vinegar and mist your skin with it to help restore its pH balance. Apple cider vinegar is believed by many to work best. While your skin is healing, make sure to drink plenty of water to keep it hydrated. | Cool sunburned skin. The easiest way to soothe a sunburn is the most obvious way: Apply something cool to the skin. This won't just feel great, but it also will reduce redness, swelling, and pain. There are many ways to do this. Take a cool shower or bath. Use a cold compress such as ice or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel. Rub the skin with an ice cube. Take breaks between applications to avoid damaging your skin. Apply cucumber slices on your skin. Cucumbers cool and moisturize irritated skin. Simply cut thin slices from a refrigerated cucumber and lay them across the affected area. The wider the cucumber, the better. If you don't have cucumbers, you can use a potato because it contain lots of water and also is moisturizing for the skin. If you're having a hard time getting the cucumber slices to stick, try moistening your skin with a little oil or lotion. It acts like a glue. Apply aloe vera gel. Aloe is one of the few natural ingredients widely known to provide relief from sunburns. Rub aloe vera gel, or a gentle lotion containing this ingredient on the affected skin as soon as you notice redness or feel pain. Repeat several times per day to keep pain and irritation at bay. If you have an aloe plant, you can slit the leaves down the middle and squeeze them onto your sunburn to get a 100% natural soothing effect. Apply a topical steroid ointment. Steroids are a type of drug that can reduce pain and swelling when they come in contact with the skin, making them perfect for sunburns. There are many different types of steroid ointments available over-the-counter. Hydrocortisone cream is one common choice. To apply, gently rub a pea-sized amount over the burned skin, reapplying every few hours as needed. Note that topical steroids are not the same kind of drugs infamous for being abused by athletes. These are anabolic steroids. Over-the-counter steroids are perfectly safe for use (except in some cases for very young children). Bathe in a tea bath. According to some, the tannic acids in black tea can soothe burned skin and prevent peeling.To do this, first boil a pot of water. Steep five or six tea bags in the hot water for about five to ten minutes. Let the tea cool to room temperature. (Cool it in the fridge to reduce your wait time.) When it's cool, apply it to the burnt area with a rag or spray bottle and let it sit for half an hour. Alternatively, just hold one of the wet tea bags against the skin. Most sources recommend a black tea such as Earl Grey for this. Bathe in an oatmeal bath. Although it may seem like an odd choice, oatmeal can be a helpful tool for dealing with sunburns and promoting healing. It has healing properties such as normalizing the skin's pH level and soothing itchy and irritated skin. Try running a cool bath and mixing in two to three cups of plain (unsweetened) rolled oats. Soak in the bath for 20 minutes before rinsing off or proceeding to one of the other treatments. You can add 3/4 cup of baking soda to the bath as well for extra moisturizing power. Spray vinegar water on the skin. Although it may seem strange, vinegar helps restore the pH balance of the skin, which helps soothe and heal the skin after a sunburn. First, take a cold shower. Next, fill a spray bottle with vinegar and gently mist the burnt skin. Let the vinegar mixture sit for about an hour. After, rinse it off or take another cold shower. The smell can be unpleasant during the hour-long waiting period, but your sunburn should be less likely to peel. Most types of vinegar should work, but according to some sources, apple cider vinegar works best. Avoid balsamic vinegar. The added sugar and coloring might irritate the skin. Apply moisturizer. To put a little life back into dry sunburned skin, apply a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to the affected areas. Most daily lotions should work well for this task. You also can try using a few drops of a neutral oil such as baby oil, olive oil or canola oil. Try to use a product without added fragrances or scents. The chemicals in these can sometimes irritate inflamed skin. Drink water. Sunburned skin is extra dry and inflamed, so ensuring your body has a good supply of water can help keep it protected. Stay hydrated inside and out to prevent too much skin from peeling and flaking off. Mayo Clinic recommends about 9 to 13 cups of water a day. Water also can help with headaches, which are sometimes caused by sunburns. Apply whole milk to the skin. The fat in dairy products can help moisturize burnt skin by reducing pain and preventing peeling. Whole milk is usually the cheapest most convenient way milk to use. Try soaking a rag in whole milk and holding it against your burn in 20 minute intervals as a cold compress. Alternatively, add whole milk to a cool bath and let yourself soak. Don't use low- or non-fat milk for this. Without the fat, the milk loses much of its moisturizing properties. Whole-fat plain Greek yogurt also has the same effect when used as a lotion.Don't use sugary sweetened yogurts, which can get sticky and might irritate the skin. Put potato paste on the skin. The starch inside potatoes contains lots of water, so laying it against the skin is a great way to re-moisturize skin that's dried out from a sunburn. Grate a potato to turn it into a starchy paste. Then, rub this mixture against the skin and let it sit.Wash off with cold water after 20 minutes. You can also use a food processor to make your paste. If you do, cut your potato into small pieces first. Trying to grind up a whole potato at once can be too much for some processors. Rub coconut oil on the skin. While many natural oils will moisturize and soothe dry skin just as well as commercial lotions do, coconut oil is an even better choice. In addition to providing moisture and giving burnt skin a healthy glow, it also gently exfoliates, removes dead skin and promotes healing. Coconut oil is available in solid blocks from many health food stores and specialty grocers. It will liquefy from the heat of your hands. | Cool sunburned skin. Apply cucumber slices on your skin. Apply aloe vera gel. Apply a topical steroid ointment. Bathe in a tea bath. Bathe in an oatmeal bath. Spray vinegar water on the skin. Apply moisturizer. Drink water. Apply whole milk to the skin. Put potato paste on the skin. Rub coconut oil on the skin. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deposit-Cash | How to Deposit Cash | To deposit cash, find an ATM that's linked to your bank, and deposit cash in it. If your bank isn't linked to ATMs that accept cash deposits, you can still deposit cash by filling out a deposit slip and giving it to the bank with the money you want to deposit. Alternatively, if you use an online bank, you may be able to deposit the cash at a traditional bank and then transfer the funds into your online bank account. | Check that the preprinted information is correct. Lots of information on the slip is already printed. Your name, address, bank name and address, and your account number should all be on the deposit slip already. Before depositing cash, check to ensure this information is present and correct. If the information is not present or incorrect, talk to a representative of the issuing bank. If you did not receive deposit slips when opening your account, contact the bank where you have the account. Many banks offer unnumbered deposit slips in their lobbies (in which case you will have to fill in your account number manually). Write the date on the slip. There should be a space to the left of the deposit slip for you to write the date of your deposit. This will help the transaction proceed smoothly and prevent confusion. Indicate the amount of cash you’re depositing. Locate the line on which you are expected to total your cash. Typically, the cash deposit line is the first line on the right side of the deposit slip. It has a small black triangle next to it, along with the word “CASH.” Total the amount of cash you're depositing and write it on this line. If you're depositing checks along with cash, you can write the totals of your checks on the subsequent lines. Total your deposit slip. When you're done filling the slip out, add up your cash and check deposit amounts. Write the grand total at the bottom of the deposit slip. For instance, if you deposited two checks worth $50 and $100 in cash, you'd write $200 at the bottom of the deposit slip. Use an online bank with a physical location. Some online banks also offer walk-in locations where you can deposit cash. If you're near enough to this physical location, depositing cash is similar to the process by which you'd deposit it at a traditional bank. Use a money order. Money orders are like checks, but they are guaranteed by a public or private service like Western Union or the Indian Postal Service. Visit the money order service of your choice, then pay for the money order. From there, deposit it according to the instructions prescribed by your bank. The specific process by which you can deposit a money order vary depending on the online bank you use. Generally, you can scan or take a photo of the money order, then send the image to your online bank. In some cases, you might need to mail the money order to the bank. Check your online bank's policy regarding money orders before you get a money order. Transfer the funds online. If you use an online bank as well as a traditional bank, make a deposit at your local branch of the traditional bank. Then, transfer the funds to your online bank over the internet. The specific method by which you can accomplish this varies depending on the banks you use. Generally, however, you'll have to set up an account online with your traditional bank, then select an “electronic funds transfer” or some similar formulation. You will then be prompted to provide the routing number for the online bank you wish to transfer the funds to. If you exclusively use an online bank, open a bank account at a local bank. Look for one with the lowest monthly fees. Use a wire transfer service. Wire transfer services allow you to move money electronically from one account to another. They are provided by most major traditional banks. To deposit cash into your online account using wire transfer services, deposit the cash at your traditional bank. Request a wire transfer and fill out the bank's transfer form. Requirements for using wire transfer services vary from bank to bank. Depositing cash in your online bank via wire transfer may result in a brief hold time before the money is available. There are often fees involved in using a wire transfer service. Ask about these fees before depositing cash using a wire transfer. If you exclusively use an online bank, the only way to move cash from the physical bank to your online bank is to open an account with a traditional bank. Look for one with the lowest monthly fees. Put cash on a reloadable prepaid debit card. Instead of depositing cash in a bank, purchase a reloadable prepaid debit card. This card works the same way a regular debit or credit card does, and allows you to make purchases up to the amount deposited on the card. The process by which you deposit cash onto the card depends on the terms of the card. Some cards allow customers to deposit cash at the checkout register of certain big box stores. Cards that were obtained at banks usually require you to add more money to the card at the issuing bank. Before purchasing a reloadable prepaid debit card, ask the issuer how to deposit cash onto the card. If you find the process too difficult, consider another option for depositing cash. Reloadable prepaid debit cards are available online, at big box stores, and at many banks. Deposit cash through an ATM. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are machines that distribute and, in some cases, receive cash so that you can access your bank account even when the bank is closed. Banks that are not linked to ATMs that allow deposits will not be able to accept cash deposits. Find a bank with access to a large ATM network. To find an online bank with a large ATM network, contact several banks and ask the bank representative, “Do you offer access to a large ATM network?” If the answer is “No,” look for another way to deposit your cash. Most online banks do not accept cash deposits via ATM. Cash deposited through an ATM might be put on hold for several days. Do not send cash through the mail. While many banks – both traditional and online – allow you to deposit checks by mail, you should never send cash by mail. Most banks disallow this, but even if you encounter a bank that does, do not deposit money in this manner. The risk of your money getting lost is too great. Convert your money to a money order instead. | Check that the preprinted information is correct. Write the date on the slip. Indicate the amount of cash you’re depositing. Total your deposit slip. Use an online bank with a physical location. Use a money order. Transfer the funds online. Use a wire transfer service. Put cash on a reloadable prepaid debit card. Deposit cash through an ATM. Do not send cash through the mail. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-a-Guinea-Pig | How to Catch a Guinea Pig | To catch a guinea pig in its cage, start by herding it into a corner of the cage. Then, drape a towel over it to calm it down, and try picking it up. You can also place some food in the middle of its cage to help lure it out of hiding so you can pick it up. Or, you can hold a treat in your hand and wait for your guinea pig to come and eat it. | Put food in the cage and let your guinea pig go for it on its own. Put some veggies in the middle of your guinea pig's cage and let it come out and munch without your interference. It will smell you nearby, and start to associate your scent with the scent of food. Don't put your hand in yet or try to grab it — getting your guinea pig to stop hiding from you is all about building trust slowly. Some good veggies to choose from include carrots, broccoli, cucumber, or tomatoes. Place food on your hand to entice it towards you. After a few days, start putting food on your flat palm and let your guinea pig investigate the offering. It may be skittish at first, but eventually, it will overcome its fear for a tasty reward. Keep doing this every day until your guinea pig doesn't hesitate before you try to handle it. Pick up your pet from the front with each hand under the chest and rump. To avoid startling your guinea pig, pick it up by reaching slowly underneath its front side to cradle its chest, then use your other hand to support its backside. Moving slowly and in front of the guinea pig stops it from being surprised when you hold its chest, and holding its rump makes it feel more comfortable. Never grab, squeeze, toss, or mishandle a guinea pig. This is a surefire way to make it distrust you. Monitor your guinea pig for health problems if it hides or refuses to come out. If it doesn't come out when tasty treats are available, it could be a sign that your guinea pig is sick, especially if it is normally sociable and trusts you. Rodents and small animals tend to hide and stay quiet if they are injured. Try to find it in the cage, and inspect its body from outside the bars. Look for scratches, broken limbs, puffed-up fur, and irregular breathing patterns. Bring your guinea pig to a vet if you believe it's been hurt or is sick. Cover the guinea pig in a towel before trying to grab it. Guinea pigs are prey animals and can get skittish when they encounter new things. Herd your guinea pig into a corner of its cage and drape the towel over it. The darkness under the towel will help it calm down so you can easily grab them. Locate your pet guinea pig in the home by listening for it carefully. If your guinea pig has escaped into the house, it's usually easiest to find it and lure it out with its favorite foods. Turn off any distracting noises and listen carefully for anxious teeth grinding and the pitter-patter of your pet's feet. Once you're pretty sure you know where it is, you can start luring it out of it's hiding spot. If your guinea pig has somehow ended up in the wall or a place you can't reach, try luring it out with food before you start moving furniture and tearing up the home — they are easily scared by loud noises and it may go even deeper into its hiding place. Cut up your guinea pig's favorite foods nearby to release the scent. Guinea pigs, like many animals, navigate the world mainly through smells. If you cut up your pet guinea pig's favorite foods into chunks near its hiding spot, it may smell the foods and be enticed by the aroma. If your guinea pig doesn't have any particular favorite foods, opt for carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, or broccoli. Unlike picky humans, guinea pigs love veggies. If veggies don't seem to work, try chopping some fruits instead, but don't give your guinea pig too much fruit as they only need a small amount every day. Hold some food in your hand to entice the guinea pig to walk up to you. Place some food in the palm of your hand with your fingers flat against the ground. If your guinea pig can smell and see the food, it should come running up and take some out of your hand — this is your opportunity to catch it. This is especially effective if you can see your guinea pig. If you can't, leave the food near where you last heard it and sit far away so it doesn't get scared by you. Calmly walk up to it once it starts snacking and gently pick it up with the palm of your hand. Pick up the guinea pig gently so you don't scare it away again. Avoid any sudden movements that could spook your pet and send it running away. Slowly and gently pick up your guinea pig under its belly and rump with the palms of your hands, then soothe it as you put it back in its cage. Your guinea pig will probably be anxious and scared from its big adventure, so be sure to give it plenty of treats and affection. Tie a piece of carrot, or another guinea pig favorite, to the end of a fishing line. To catch a lost guinea pig out in the world or one that is cautious around people, you won't be able to entice it with food in your hand. Tie a piece of carrot or another favorite treat, to the end of a fishing line at least 10 ft (3.0 m) long. Later on, you'll slowly pull the treat closer to you so you can catch it in the net. While carrots are generally loved by guinea pigs, feel free to use any other veggie or snack if they don't take to it. Broccoli is a good alternative as it is very easy to tie a string around the head. Place the food end of the string near the guinea pig and grab a net. Slowly and calmly walk up to the guinea pig's general location and place the food end of the string on the ground. Walk back to the length of the string and pull it just enough to make the string slightly taut without moving the food. Grab a net at least 5 ft (1.5 m) across and wait. Get a net that has holes small enough that a guinea pig can't escape. Opt for a mesh net if you would rather not risk it escaping at all. If you can't see the guinea pig or the end of the string from your hiding spot, it's essential that you tighten the string, as this allows you to feel when the string is being pulled from the other end. If the string is loose, you won't know when the guinea pig takes the bait. Pull the string slowly towards you once you see or feel the guinea pig. Stay very still and slowly pull the string towards you as soon as you feel the guinea pig pull the string or when you see it munching. This entices it to keep following the food towards you. Stay still and don't make noises so it doesn't get spooked as it gets closer. Pull the food towards you in tiny increments, maybe 1 in (2.5 cm) at a time. Any sudden movements could startle the guinea pig. Drop the net on the guinea pig when it gets very close to you. When the guinea pig is within 2 ft (0.61 m), drop your net on top of it. Don't throw the net or make sudden movements, instead raise the net slowly above the guinea pig as it eats its snack, and drop it from above. The guinea pig may freak out for a second, but this gives you a second or two to pick it up and carry it with you. If you find a lost guinea pig out in the wild, give it a little cage or box with bedding, water, and some food while you look for its rightful owner. Your local humane society can help you if you are not able to take care of it. Bring a pet guinea pig straight back to its cage and comfort it — it was probably pretty stressed and frightened being in a strange place. Tie a long piece of string around a stick and cut it to the size of a box. Grab a string or fishing line at least 20 ft (6.1 m) long and tie one end tightly around a tall stick. Then, place the stick under one edge of a box with the bottom cut off — if the box balances, you don't need to cut the stick shorter. If the box tips over and doesn't balance on the stick, cut 1 in (2.5 cm) away until it stays on its own. The box should be tipped to the side with a large opening for the guinea pig to crawl into. The bottom should be cut away so you can trap the guinea pig. Opt for a box at least 2 ft (0.61 m) wide and.75 ft (0.23 m) tall, or two times as large as your target guinea pig. Set up the box with bait near the guinea pig, raising one edge with the stick. Once you've made sure the box stands on its own with an edge raised by the stick, bring it out to where you think the guinea pig is. Place it on the ground and set up the stick once again. Then, place a few different offerings at the end of the box touching the ground. While one piece of fruit or veggies is usually enough to entice a guinea pig, it's best to make a mix of different foods to better lure it into the trap. Use a mix of carrots, broccoli, and tomatoes for an easy and effective option. Find an obscured hiding spot nearby to watch the box. Walk away from the trap, keeping the string or fishing line loose so you don't accidentally spring the trap too early. Find a spot where you are obscured from sight but you can still see the box. It may take a short while for the guinea pig to come out of its hiding spot, so be patient but don't make too much noise. If you can, set up a remote camera pointed towards the box and step away to an even further distance. You will still be able to see the box and know when to pull the string, and the guinea pig may come out quickly as it won't be able to sense you nearby. Pull the string as soon as you see the guinea pig go for the food. When the guinea pig is tucked away in the trap munching on the bait, pull the string sharply to yank the stick away from the box. The box will fall flat against the ground, trapping the guinea pig. Move quickly towards the box so it doesn't burrow or chew its way out. It's best to wait until the guinea pig is towards the end of the box touching the ground. If you pull the stick while it's just barely under the trap, it's more likely that it will escape. If the guinea pig manages to get out of the trap, wait for a few minutes before you attempt to trap it again. It may take several attempts, but if you pull the string as it's eating it'll have less time to react. Place a piece of cardboard under the box and pick it up. If you pick up the box by the sides, the guinea pig will simply run away as soon as it sees an exit. Slide a piece of cardboard larger than the bottom of the box underneath and lift it by this piece. The guinea pig will have no means of escape, and you can bring it back home or start looking for its owner. If you are catching a lost guinea pig, look for its owner before you take it home for yourself or take it to your local humane society. This is similar to how you catch a spider by placing a glass upside-down over it, then sliding a piece of paper underneath so it can't escape. | Put food in the cage and let your guinea pig go for it on its own. Place food on your hand to entice it towards you. Pick up your pet from the front with each hand under the chest and rump. Monitor your guinea pig for health problems if it hides or refuses to come out. Cover the guinea pig in a towel before trying to grab it. Locate your pet guinea pig in the home by listening for it carefully. Cut up your guinea pig's favorite foods nearby to release the scent. Hold some food in your hand to entice the guinea pig to walk up to you. Pick up the guinea pig gently so you don't scare it away again. Tie a piece of carrot, or another guinea pig favorite, to the end of a fishing line. Place the food end of the string near the guinea pig and grab a net. Pull the string slowly towards you once you see or feel the guinea pig. Drop the net on the guinea pig when it gets very close to you. Tie a long piece of string around a stick and cut it to the size of a box. Set up the box with bait near the guinea pig, raising one edge with the stick. Find an obscured hiding spot nearby to watch the box. Pull the string as soon as you see the guinea pig go for the food. Place a piece of cardboard under the box and pick it up. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Champagne | How to Choose Champagne | To choose a Champagne, consider the price you are willing to spend for the occasion. For a small dinner party, a more expensive Champagne or Cava might work. For a larger celebration, a sparkling wine like Prosecco, costing about $20 per bottle, may be a better option. If you can, go to a winery to sample different Champagnes. If you can't, choose French Champagne or Cava for a drier wine and American sparkling wines for something sweeter. | Choose a region. Sparkling wines are made throughout the world and are known by many names. By understanding the country of origin, you can appreciate the flavor profiles each type of sparkling wine embodies. Vintners in Champagne, France, a region in the northeastern corner of the country, produce the most commonly known sparkling wine. Only certain approved grape varieties, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, are allowed in Champagne according to French law. French Champagne is commonly drier than other sparkling wines. Prosecco is an increasingly common sparkling Italian wine. Known for its fruity aroma and large bubbles, Prosecco is often blended into mixed drinks. The main grape used to produce Prosecco is Glera, and it has been cultivated since Roman times. Spanish sparkling wine is known as Cava. Typically dry, many agree that Cava often has a flavor profile similar to Champagne, but for a fraction of the price. Sparkling wine is a common term used to describe any non-Champagne carbonated wine. Despite the non-specific nature of its name, many sparkling wines, particularly those from California, are known for their high quality and good value. Decide whether you prefer dry or sweet Champagne. Champagnes and sparkling wines vary regarding how much residual sugar remains in the finished product. This determines how sweet or dry the resulting wine tastes. Brut champagne, a common option, is defined as having less than 15 grams of sugar per liter. In other words, it will not taste sweet at all. Extra brut is drier than brut, and brut zéro is the driest choice. Surprisingly, the flavor of extra dry Champagne is between a sweet and a dry choice. It has a slightly sweet flavor profile, and it is also a good option for pairing with a variety of foods. For a dessert option or sweet choice, consider a champagne labeled “sec” (sweet) or “demi-sec” (semi-sweet). Moscato is a popular dessert choice for sweet, sparkling wine. Consider the color. Depending on the type of grape used in production, as well as other factors, champagnes and sparkling wines vary in color from white, to pink, to red. Color can affect flavor and how “heavy” the wine feels in the mouth as well. Champagne made from all white grapes is known as “Blanc de Blancs” or “white of whites.” These wines are usually delicate and taste lighter on the palate than those made by adding red grapes. They are often served as an aperitif. ”Blanc de Noirs,” or “white of blacks,” refers to wines made with black grapes (e.g., Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier). These wines are still light in color, but not as white as Blanc de Blancs. They can range in color from straw or golden yellow to light pink, and their flavor is a little heavier than a Blanc de Blanc. Rosé wine, which has increased in popularity lately, is typically dry with a berry aroma and a pink or coral color. An unconventional choice for a sparkling wine is a red one, such as a sparkling Shiraz from Australia or a sparkling Malbec from Argentina. Think about food pairings. The crisp acidity and effervescent nature of Champagnes and sparkling wines make them a perfect partner for a variety of dishes. Depending on the type of grape used in production, each kind of Champagne or sparkling wine has optimal food pairings. The lighter quality of Blanc de Blancs compliments foods such as seafood, creamy cheeses, and vegetarian dishes. Blanc de Blancs are sometimes served at the beginning of a meal as an aperitif or while appetizers are being served. Heavier foods, such as roasted duck or turkey, pair well with Blanc de Noirs. Other options with Blanc de Noirs include pork tenderloin and aged cheeses. Sparkling rosés are a versatile choice, as they pair nicely with a range of dishes, including Mexican food, holiday hams, and garlic foods. Grilled and/or spicy foods are enhanced by pairing them with a sparkling red, such as Shiraz or Malbec. Consider the occasion. The type of event and the number of guests present should definitely factor in to how much you decide to spend per bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine. An intimate dinner or small gathering will enable you think about selecting an exclusive bottle or two of Champagne (ranging upwards of $100 per bottle). Well known producers of these high-end Champagnes include Dom Perignon, Louis Roederer Cristal, and Krug. For a larger party or wedding, sparkling wine may be a better option because of a wider variety of price points. Although a quality Champagne can be purchased for approximately $40, many well regarded Proseccos or Cavas are available for less than that. If a large quantity is being purchased, ask the merchant whether a bulk discount is available. Determine whether the wine will be mixed into another drink. If the Champagne or sparkling wine is going to be added to a cocktail or punch, consider purchasing a less expensive American sparkling wine. Decide on a bottle size. Price varies depending on the amount of Champagne being purchased. A typical bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine is 750 milliliters. Smaller, half-bottle sizes of expensive brands enable you to sample them without making the financial commitment to the regular size bottle. A 1.5 liter Magnum may be a fun option for a party. But remember, although a Magnum has double the amount of sparkling wine found in a typical bottle, it is usually more than twice as expensive due to material and shipping costs. Visit an assortment of wine shops and grocery stores. Due to increasing popularity and demand, Champagnes and sparkling wines are widely available. Grocery stores and mass marketers may have limited selection, but their wines will typically be more reasonably priced because they'll sell more popular wines at a higher volume. Local liquor stores usually have a section devoted to Champagne and sparkling wine. The staff may be able to offer suggestions, and the wines may be classified by country of origin. Wine stores are your best option for truly learning about the different types of sparkling wines available. Many wine stores offer tastings and classes. Develop relationships with local merchants. Once you have found a reputable local wine seller, invest the time in getting to know them and their products. Staff at these stores are usually quite enthusiastic about sharing their information with others. Explore online retailers. Occasionally, online retailers may be your best option for sourcing rare, hard-to-find varieties or very high-end brands. Check the laws in your state, however, as some forbid buying alcohol by mail. Seek out local wineries. Each of the 50 states currently has at least one winery, and local vintners offer a variety of tours, tastings, and events which can be helpful as you explore the world of sparkling wines. | Choose a region. Decide whether you prefer dry or sweet Champagne. Consider the color. Think about food pairings. Consider the occasion. Determine whether the wine will be mixed into another drink. Decide on a bottle size. Visit an assortment of wine shops and grocery stores. Develop relationships with local merchants. Explore online retailers. Seek out local wineries. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Bat-in-Cricket | How to Bat in Cricket | If you're right-handed, hold the cricket bat with your left hand near the rounded tip of the bat, called the toe, and your right hand higher on the handle. If you're left-handed, reverse these positions. Stand with your non-dominant shoulder towards the bowler, or the person pitching the ball, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. When the bowler pitches the ball, swing the bat backwards in a straight line, then use your top hand to control the bat as you swing it forward to hit the ball. | Grip the cricket bat properly. If you're right-handed, place your left hand on top of the handle towards the toe (the rounded tip of the cricket bat) with the right hand under it; left-handers place their hands the opposite way. The thumbs and forefingers should form a "V" between the outside edge and center of the bat that points towards the toe of the bat. Batting gloves should be worn to protect your fingers if they get hit by the ball. Assume the proper stance. If you're right-handed, stand sideways in the crease (the "safe" area in front of the wicket) with your left shoulder towards the bowler (who "pitches" the ball); left-handed batters do the opposite. Look straight over your shoulder towards the bowler; do not tilt your head. Spread your feet about 12 inches (30.5 cm) apart and bend your knees slightly with your weight distributed evenly on both legs. Rest the toe of the bat on the ground behind your feet near the wicket; your top hand will rest on the inside of the thigh nearest the bowler. Shift your weight to your back foot for longer pitches. Shifting your weight away from the bowler enables you to adjust to a ball that bounces higher off of the pitch and takes longer to reach you. Shift your weight to the foot closest to the bowler for a full pitch (one that bounces close to you). Move to meet the ball. Try to hit the ball before it spins. If the bowler is bowling spin, you can advance forward and hit the ball before it spins. You can play a front foot shot for a spin bowler; this gives you the advantage of a full-toss delivery and the chance to face the ball before it bounces and spins. Swing the bat properly. When the ball is pitched, roll the shoulder facing the bowler down slightly and swing the bat backwards in a straight line. Use your top hand for control as you bring the bat forward to meet the ball. The back-swing provides the power for the shot; a good swing clears the top of the wicket. Decide whether to attempt to score a run or continue batting. A successful batsman knows when to try to score and when to remain in position and defend the wicket. If there is no time to switch places with the non-striker and score a run, stay put and prepare for the next shot. Select the right cricket bat. Bats differ in length, weight, and handle type; the right bat for you depends partly on your height and partly on personal preference. There are different bats depending on the type of ball you are using The proper length depends upon your height. Get into your batting stance and hold the cricket bat next to your front leg. The top of the cricket bat should be situated just at the top of the players pelvis (The top of your hip). The proper weight depends upon personal preference. Heavier bats provide more power, but lighter bats provide a faster swing. Take practice swings with cricket bats of different weights until one feels comfortable and controllable. The proper handle depends upon personal preference. Bats with oval handles are stronger, but round handles are easier to grip, especially with your bottom hand. Round handles also provide additional lift when you hit the ball. Prepare the cricket bat by having it knocked in. Bats are made from willow, a soft wood that is initially hardened by a mechanical press. Additional hardening improves its performance and protects against cracking. While you can knock a bat in yourself, it is recommended that the process of strengthening the surface by denting and leveling it out be done by a professional. Rub 1 tsp. (5 g) of raw linseed oil on the bat, coating the surface evenly to promote elasticity and protect against cracking. Apply the oil either with your fingers or a cloth, using a clean cloth each time (the oil is combustible, so dispose of the cloths immediately). Let the oil soak in overnight, then oil the bat 2 additional times before beginning the actual knocking in process. Dent the middle of the cricket bat. Use a hardwood bat mallet designed for this purpose (a cricket ball may also be used). Continue hitting the surface until it is level and the dent has disappeared. This will take about 10 minutes using a bat mallet, and about 10 to 15 sessions are needed to complete the process. | Grip the cricket bat properly. Assume the proper stance. Shift your weight to your back foot for longer pitches. Shift your weight to the foot closest to the bowler for a full pitch (one that bounces close to you). Try to hit the ball before it spins. Swing the bat properly. Decide whether to attempt to score a run or continue batting. Select the right cricket bat. Prepare the cricket bat by having it knocked in. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Add-Meaning-to-Your-Life | How to Add Meaning to Your Life | To add meaning to your life, stop focusing on what you don't have and start expressing gratitude for the things you do have, such as good friends, a comfortable bed, or a pet. Being charitable adds meaning to your life as well, so think about the things you love to do and find a way to do them as a volunteer for a non-profit organization. You can also find meaning through your work by thinking about how it helps others--for example, a babysitter helps parents by giving them the freedom to leave home without their children. | Discover your purpose. Feeling as though your life has a purpose, that you have an impact and you are making the most of your abilities and your time, can infuse your life with meaning. This may require you to try your hand at many different things. If photography appeals to you, borrow a camera or take a class and see how you feel. Or maybe you are interested in helping others and are good at communicating — try tutoring to see if teaching helps you feel fulfilled. Other exercises that can help you find your purpose: Picture yourself in old age, reflecting on your life. What sort of life would you have liked to live? Would you feel satisfied with a life spent traveling all over the world, but not necessarily raising a family? Or would you feel proud and content if you had a big, healthy family? Write down your strengths and talents. In what ways could you put these to use? In your job? As a volunteer or a friend? Each night for a week, take a moment to write down events and activities that gave you energy, pleasure, and a sense of purpose, and which events and activities did not. Go over the list at the end of the week and try to think of ways to maximize the enjoyable, energizing things in your life. Figure out what is important to you. Everyone has different priorities; figuring out what is important to you is essential to living a life that is meaningful. Make a list of five things that are important to you, then consider whether the way you are currently living your life aligns with these things. If not, how could you change it to better incorporate the things that are important to you? You may want to list things like family or health. Or you may list things like creativity, growth, helping others, freedom, curiosity. If "creativity" is at the top of your list, but you work as an accountant, you may want to think about a job change, or find ways to incorporate creativity into your life (like taking a painting class, writing in your free time, acting in a community play, etc.). Write down the reasons why you feel you need to add more meaning to your life. Why do you feel you need to do this? Have you experienced a big life event? Maybe you feel like you are stuck in a rut. Whatever the reason, write down your reasons for wanting to add meaning to your life. You can write them on paper or type them on your computer. This will help you understand why it is important for you, and also help you organize your thoughts. Understand the importance of purposeful living. Having a sense of purpose increases quality of life, and may even help you live longer. Be aware that meaning is not the same as happiness. You may be happy, but not be living a meaningful life. On the other hand, living a meaningful life does not necessarily mean you will be happy. That's not to say that being happy is not important, but instead, that you should not expect finding meaning to mean finding happiness. Set a goal for yourself. Think about something you have always wanted to do. Maybe you want to get into the habit of jogging, or maybe you want to write a novel. Regardless of what it is, setting a goal to complete this dream will help you feel purposeful. If your goal is to run a marathon, then you can set that as your ultimate goal. However, it is important to break that goal down into more specific, manageable goals. There is plenty of evidence that suggests that breaking a big goal down into smaller, actionable steps makes you more likely to achieve that goal. Keep a journal of your progress. This will help you when you are feeling less motivated because it gives you an opportunity to re-motivate yourself, and to see how far you've already come. Change the way you think about your career. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “whatever your life's work, do it well.” If you have a job that you don't find meaningful, then focus on being the best at your job. This, in and of itself, can add meaning because it requires you to go to work each day with a goal in mind. You can also try to look for small ways that your jobs allow you to help others or even just yourself. For example, if you work at a day care, you are helping not only the children you care for, but also the families of the children by allowing them time to go to work or take care of personal things. If you're a teacher, not only do you help other people learn, but you also learn many things about many topics too. Become aware of the things for which you are grateful. It may sound silly, but taking the time to write down or at least notice things you are grateful for can help you feel like your life is more meaningful. Expressing gratitude for you have, instead of worrying about what you do not have, can help you refocus and connect with the world around you. Connecting with nature, other people, or a higher power can help bring meaning to your life. For example, maybe you are grateful for you comfortable bed, maybe you are grateful that you don't have to get up early in the morning, or that you have a friend you can call at any time of the day or night. Try to practice becoming mindful of the great things you have on a regular basis. Even if it is just noticing something that makes you feel grateful for a few extra seconds each day. Cultivating gratitude reminds us that, even when bad things happen or don't go the way we planned, there are still good things in our lives. Eliminating that feeling that you should always have more can help you see what is truly meaningful in your life. Seek help. Sometimes, we may get very caught up in our own thoughts, which can make it difficult to find solutions. If you are having a difficult time, you can talk with a mental health professional who can give you an unbiased perspective. You can also talk with a trusted friend or family member, they may have had similar experiences or just suggestions about things you can try. Don't let the stigma that often surrounds therapy discourage you from trying it. Nearly everyone can benefit from being able to talk about their fears and worries with an unbiased person. Build close relationships. This can be with family or friends you already have, but it can also be with new people. Either way, take the time to build close relationship with others. This is one great way to add meaning to your life because these relationships are deep, and provide benefit to you as well in the form of love and support. Some ways to strengthen your relationships include: Become a great listener. Instead of waiting for your turn to talk, or checking your phone while someone is speaking, turn your focus onto that person and what he is saying. Show you are listening by nodding, asking follow-up questions, and repeating things back to them (like "So, what you're saying is..."). Learn healthy ways to express your emotions. Knowing how to manage your anger can help prevent you from yelling, snapping, or engaging in abusive behavior with others. Show that you are trustworthy. When you say you are going to do something, follow through and do it. Tell the truth, be consistent, and if you're wrong, own up to it. Work through problems in your current relationships. Sometimes having close relationships with people can be very challenging. There can be many reasons why they are difficult, but one reason is that people who are close to you often challenge you to open up, or to reflect on your beliefs. Despite the stress that these relationships might bring from time to time, research has shown that, unless they are physically or emotionally abusive, they are important for developing a sense of meaning. Consider family or couples therapy to help you work through problems with family or significant others. A therapist can act as a mediator and help you communicate in healthy, productive ways. Learn to set boundaries. Setting healthy boundaries is a way to protect yourself and improve your sense of self. Communicate assertively. Being assertive doesn't mean aggressive — it means you are stating your needs while still respecting the needs of others. Be compassionate. The Dalai Lama said: "Compassion is what makes our lives meaningful." Sometimes this is easy, but many times it is a challenge. When you see someone suffering or doing something that annoys you, try to put yourself in his shoes. Think about how you would feel or behave if you were facing the same situation. Hopefully by doing this, you will be encouraged to act, either by trying to help the suffering person or showing understanding. This also applies to your attitude about yourself. Sometimes, you will make mistakes, and that is OK. Try to be as compassionate towards yourself as you would be to someone you really care about. Compassionate actions activate the pleasure center of your brain, so you feel great whenever you help someone else. Compassionate people also make better friends, parents, and spouses, so showing compassion can help improve your relationships. Make donations. Although this may not at first seem like a way to be grateful, donating time, money to help support an organization, or donating goods (like giving canned foods to a soup kitchen) is a way of demonstrating that you appreciate what you have. You can be charitable in many ways. You can donate your time, your money, your talents, or simply a few minutes of your time to a friend in need. However, understand that you can't just donate an hour of your time once a year. Research shows that you need to be charitable on a regular basis to receive the positive benefits of doing so. Try doing something you love as a volunteer activity. Again, this helps you to put your own life in perspective, especially if you volunteer with people, animals, or situations that are far worse off than you've ever been. For example, if you love animals, volunteer as often as you can at the local shelter. If you love children, see if you can volunteer at a local foster home or community center. Search for a new career. Perhaps you have already tried changing your attitude about your current job without results. It may be time for you to look for other job options. Before ending up in another job that feels meaningless to you, take the time to write down the things you value in life. For example, you might value kindness, or you might value generosity. You might value helping people, or making people laugh. Write down every single thing that comes into your mind. Doing this can help you identify thins you might enjoy doing. Consider the activities you wouldn't mind doing for free. For example, if you enjoy volunteering in soup kitchens, why not turn it into a career helping the homeless. There are many non-profit organizations who require people to organize housing, develop advocacy programs, and/or provide counseling. It may also be possible to do an internship in a position you think you might be interested in. This will help you decide whether or not the job is right for you without making huge life changes. Be courageous. Reflecting on your daily habits is scary. It requires you to really be honest with yourself about how you live your life. You may have to make big changes to get to that sense of purpose, and it is a journey that you will spend your whole life on. If you decide that what you really want to be doing with your life is something that requires big life changes (e.g. moving around the world, investing a lot of your savings, or shaking up your daily routine), then you really have to try and look past your fear. Fear often keeps us from doing what we really want to be doing. Building confidence and acknowledging your fears can help you build courage. | Discover your purpose. Figure out what is important to you. Write down the reasons why you feel you need to add more meaning to your life. Set a goal for yourself. Change the way you think about your career. Become aware of the things for which you are grateful. Seek help. Build close relationships. Work through problems in your current relationships. Be compassionate. Make donations. Search for a new career. Be courageous. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Ride-a-Penny-Board | How to Ride a Penny Board | Before riding a penny board, perfect your stance by practicing on a flat surface. Try placing your left or right foot just behind the 2 screws connecting the front wheels to your board and balance. However, if you can't hold your balance, try moving your foot that's on the board forward or back until you feel comfortable. Once you feel confident, kick off gently with the ball of the foot that's on the ground, and continue pushing off with the ball of your foot every few feet to gain speed. | Wear the right shoes. Close-toed, flat-soled shoes are the best for riding on a penny board. You want to ensure that your toes aren't exposed in case you trip or fall. The flat sole will let you feel and grip the entire board. Canvas shoes like Vans or Chuck Taylors work well. Place your penny board on a flat surface. This is important if you've never learned how to ride a skateboard. Placing your board on a flat surface will allow you more control when standing, preventing it from sliding around. Stand on a patch of gravel or patch of grass to lock the board in place. Although it will be more painful if you fall, on gravel, these surfaces will hold you steady while you learn to stand on the board. Hold onto something for balance. If you are near a handrail or a wall, hold onto it to help you balance. Place your left or right foot on the board. Place your foot just behind the two screws that connect your front trucks to your board. This is the foot that you won't use for kicking and it will always be in front of your other foot to for balance. Your body should be facing forward. Some skaters will ride mongo, which means you push with your front foot (usually dominant foot). Mongo pushing involves keeping the foot on the back of the board, not the front. Regular skaters will lead with the left foot and face right when moving forward. Goofy skaters lead with the right foot and face left when moving forward. Put the ball of your other foot on the ground. Place it as if you are going to kick. Practice picking this foot up and down while you find balance on the board with your other foot. Balance on your board with one foot and get a feel for how easily your board wobbles. Knowing how far you can lean before losing your balance will help you when ridging and turning, If you feel your board wobble too much, tighten your trucks. The trucks are the metal parts of your board that connect to the wheels and deck. Use a unit tool designed for skateboards to adjust the trucks. With your tool, turn the kingpin to the right until you feel a tightness. Adjust your front foot. Move your front foot around on the board until you feel comfortable. If you are having a hard time balancing, try placing your foot closer to the center while you kick with the other. Shift your dominant foot back using the ball and heel of your foot until you feel your entire foot pressing down on the board. The farther back you move your front foot, the more shifting you may have to do when actually riding with both feet on the board. Try to keep your foot positioned so that the front of your shoe covers at least the bottom two screws in the front. Because the penny board is so small, for an average adult there isn't really a natural way to stand with your feet so close together. Switch to a coasting position. Turn your front foot at a 45-degree angle to the board. Place your back foot behind the back truck at a 90-degree angle to the edge of the board. The back foot will be perpendicular to the board. Place your foot where the lip curve meets the flat body of the board. When shifting and turning your front foot, lift up your heel and turn on the ball of your foot. Goofy skaters will have the right foot positioned at the front; regular skaters will have the left foot at the front. Move the penny board to a flat, long stretch of asphalt or concrete. Make sure there isn't any traffic when you are practicing, since you will have less control than usual when you first start riding. It's best to find a quiet street or empty parking lot to practice in. Look for somewhere where you will have room to push a few times. Make sure the area you are skating on doesn't have large cracks, bumps, or rocks. Because the penny board is small, it's a bigger challenge to balance on in comparison to normal-sized skateboards. If you want to do tricks on your board, consider switching to a larger board that will be more stable. Face forward. Place your front foot on the board behind the front screws and find your balance. Lift your other foot off of the ground and make sure you feel comfortable on the board. Adjust your foot as needed, moving it forward or back until you feel confident and comfortable. Ensure both of your feet are facing straight forward. Kick off from the ball of your foot that's on the ground with a light step. Don't go too fast too soon. Keep most of your weight on the leg and foot that's on the board. Focus your weight on the big front toe. Keep your knee slightly bent. Kick by placing the ball of your foot on the ground and pushing every few feet to gain speed. Don't allow your foot to touch the ground for too long, or your may lose your balance. With your kicking foot, push off with the ball of your foot, like you're kicking dust backwards. Make longer strides when pushing. A long, smooth stride will keep you consistent and make balancing easier. Start coasting. Once you've gained enough speed and you feel comfortable, place your pushing (back) foot on the board. At this point, turn your feet and body sideways, twisting your neck to see where you are going. Your front foot should be at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot should be perpendicular to the board. If you need to adjust your front foot, slide it forward or backward using the outer edge of your foot. Place your back foot where the lip of the board meets the body, right where the four back screws are. Keep your knees bent slightly and center your gravity in the middle of the board. Extend your arms out to help you stay balanced. Practice moving between positions. Transition between pushing and coasting until you feel comfortable and confident in your balance. Practice extensively before you try penny boarding in busier areas. Keep playing around with the placement of your feet and the bend in your knees. Make small adjustments until your coasting stance feels natural. Experiment with placing your front foot. You want your front foot at an angle between 45- and 90-degrees to the board as you coast. You will be facing sideways, and you should choose an angle that gives you optimal control on your terrain. You might find, as you begin, that it even feels comfortable to keep your front foot mostly straight. Finding a comfortable placement for your front foot is important because it steers your penny board and keeps it situated under you. Get a feeling of your turning ability. Understand that you will have limited ability to turn while your trucks are tight. If you are still practicing kicking and coasting on the board, it is better to keep the trucks tight until you feel confident in your balance. Turning on your penny board involves shifting your weight either forward on the balls of your feet, or back on your heels. By pressing down on either edge of the board, you lean on your trucks causing you to turn. Loosen your trucks slightly. This will allow you to gain more flexibility in your turns. Take your tool and and locate the kingpin, which is the large nut in the center of your truck. Turn the nut to the right to tighten, and to the left to loosen. Tighter trucks create less wobble, making you feel like you have more stability for balance. However, if your trucks are really tight, you'll have to lift your board up to turn. Since the penny board is small, you may find it easier to loosen your trucks slightly as turning will be much easier. Looser trucks allow the shifting of your weight to better compress the bushings on one side. The bushings are the colored rubber parts on your trucks. The bushings allow the hanger, the large “T” shaped part of your truck, to pivot creating a turn. Don't make your trucks too loose as this will not only make it harder to balance, but if your trucks are too loose, the nut could get dislodged if you hit rocky terrain. Gain more speed by kicking. Keep kicking consistently until you reach an adequate speed before your turn. If you're going too slow, you may not have the momentum to make the turn. Too fast and you are likely to fall. If you are going too fast, you'll feel your board start to wobble. These are called speed wobbles and it makes it hard to turn your board as it may slip out from under your feet. When learning how to ride a penny board, keep your turns wide by making large carves. Take your time turning. If you're in an open area, slowly shift your weight to begin your turn and move in a large arch. Place your back foot further up the lip for a sharper turn. Keeping your back foot perpendicular to the board, slid it up the lip. It can be on the very back of the deck to help you turn at a sharper angle. The sharper you turn, the more you should bend your knees to keep your balance. To do a kick turn, a sharp turn where you lift the front wheels off the board and pivot, make sure your back foot is on the tail. Place most of your weight on your back foot and press down, while swinging the board around with your front foot. Place more on weight on your front foot. This is to carve in the direction of your turn. Your front foot will guide the board left or right on your turn. As the plastic deck tips, the wheels will turn in the direction that you are pointing the deck. Guiding your turns with your front foot is known as carving. This is how you normally turn your board. You will still shift the weight of your back foot for a carving turn as well, but your front foot does most of the steering! | Wear the right shoes. Place your penny board on a flat surface. Place your left or right foot on the board. Put the ball of your other foot on the ground. Adjust your front foot. Switch to a coasting position. Move the penny board to a flat, long stretch of asphalt or concrete. Face forward. Ensure both of your feet are facing straight forward. Kick by placing the ball of your foot on the ground and pushing every few feet to gain speed. Start coasting. Practice moving between positions. Experiment with placing your front foot. Get a feeling of your turning ability. Loosen your trucks slightly. Gain more speed by kicking. Place your back foot further up the lip for a sharper turn. Place more on weight on your front foot. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Bathe-Your-Pitbull | How to Bathe Your Pitbull | If you need to bathe your pit bull, place a towel or a non-skid mat in your tub, then bring the dog into the bathroom and shut the door. Fill the tub with 3-4 inches of warm water and coax or carry the dog into the bathtub. Once the dog is in the water, use a handheld showerhead or a pitcher to wet the dog from the neck down. Wash the dog's face with a washcloth, then apply shampoo all over the dog, from its neck to its tail. Work the shampoo into a lather, then rinse the soap away thoroughly. Dry the dog, then reward it for finishing the bath! | Get in the right frame of mind. Pit bulls are known to be stubborn, so you will have to be firm and consistent when getting them used to bathing. Set aside enough time for the bath, since you will be less stressed if you are not pressed for time. Maintain control of the situation and let your pit bull know that you are in charge. It is easier if you can get your pit bull used to baths when they are young. Introduce your dog to the bath routine. If your dog runs away and hides when it is bath time, you will need to approach the situation with a calm demeanor and incorporate lots of rewards and treats. Be calm; talk with your pet in a reassuring voice. If you are low key and not agitated, your dog is more likely to remain somewhat calm as well. Coax your pit bull into an empty tub and reward them with a treat. It is useful to do this for a few times a day in the week leading up to the bath. Let your pit bull just spend time in an empty tub. Select an appropriate shampoo for your pit bull. Do not use human shampoo for your dog, because ingredients in them (like fragrance) can irritate your pit bull's skin. Read all instructions on the shampoo to see whether it needs to be diluted. You can also check the label to see how long the shampoo should remain on the dog before rinsing. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on shampoos that would work well for your pit bull. Put on old clothes. Odds are, you will get as wet as your dog during the bath. If you have on old clothes, or even a bathing suit, you will be happier after the bath. Gather your supplies and prepare the bathtub. The whole bathing process will go more smoothly if you have everything you need and aren't rushing around trying to find extra towels or dog shampoo. Have extra towels nearby and lining the floor, so no one slips during or after the bath. Place a non-skid mat in your tub so your dog doesn't slip and get hurt during the bath. Keep your dog's brush and shampoo within reach, so your pet doesn't escape the tub while you go searching for the shampoo. Stock some treats in the bathroom to use as rewards during the bath. Take your dog for a long walk or run. After vigorous exercise, your dog won't have as much energy to resist a bath. Additionally, if they are hot and sweaty, they may welcome a bath. Brush your pit bull thoroughly. Although brushing your pit bull should be a regular part of your grooming routine, it is also important to brush your pit bull right before bath time. This pre-bath brushing will help remove any dead hair. Matted hair will hold onto water and not dry well, resulting in irritated skin. By brushing before the bath, you can eliminate this issue. Bring your dog into the bathroom and shut the door. You want to make it as difficult as possible for your dog to escape the bath, so closing bathroom doors will help you in this endeavor. Remove your dog’s collar and put a leash or tether on your dog. A leather collar can shrink when wet and irritate your dog's skin. You can replace it with a temporary nylon collar. Leashing your dog will keep them in place and help prevent them from escaping. This will help keep things less messy, and it can prevent injury from a wet dog running around the bathroom or house. If your dog tends to bite when in the bath, consider using a muzzle at bathtime. Protect your dog’s ears and eyes. Water can irritate the delicate membranes in a dog's eyes and ears. Keep this in mind as you're bathing your pit bull. Because pit bulls are prone to ear infections, you need to keep their ears dry. Place a cotton ball in each of your pit bull's ears to keep out water. Be sure the cotton balls are large enough not to be caught or lost in the ear canal. Avoid spraying water directly on your pit bull's head. This will help keep your dog's eyes, mouth, and ears dry during the bath as well. Fill the tub with three or four inches of warm water and start the bath. Like people, dogs want to be comfortable; keep this in mind when setting your water temperature. Saturate your dog’s skin. Use a detachable shower spray nozzle or pitcher to completely wet your dog's skin from the neck down (thus avoiding the eyes and ears). Use a washcloth to gently wipe off your pit bull's face, head, and around the ears. Work in the shampoo from neck to tail. Gently massage in the shampoo and distribute it thoroughly. Some dog owners like to use rubber bath brushes or massage gloves for applying shampoo. They can help distribute the shampoo more evenly and stimulate circulation. Rinse thoroughly, since any soap left on the skin can be irritating. Watch the water as it goes into the tub, and rinse until it runs clear. Rinse your dog's head first, making sure to cover their eyes with one hand to prevent water from getting in them. If your dog is really muddy or dirty, you can repeat the shampoo step. Dry your dog and reward them for finishing the bath. After you've both survived the bath, you can relax and enjoy your fresh-smelling pit bull. Use your hands to squeeze or pat away excess water from your pit bull's body. Gently remove the cotton balls from your pit bull's ears, and dry them to remove any lingering water. Wrap your dog in a large, absorbent towel to thoroughly dry them. Some owners use a pet dryer or blow dryer on a low setting, but you must take care to watch the heat so your dog isn't burned. Give a few treats and kisses for their good behavior in the tub. You can also crate your dog on a towel to help them dry without getting water all over the house. | Get in the right frame of mind. Introduce your dog to the bath routine. Select an appropriate shampoo for your pit bull. Put on old clothes. Gather your supplies and prepare the bathtub. Take your dog for a long walk or run. Brush your pit bull thoroughly. Bring your dog into the bathroom and shut the door. Remove your dog’s collar and put a leash or tether on your dog. Protect your dog’s ears and eyes. Fill the tub with three or four inches of warm water and start the bath. Saturate your dog’s skin. Work in the shampoo from neck to tail. Rinse thoroughly, since any soap left on the skin can be irritating. Dry your dog and reward them for finishing the bath. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Coconut-Candy | How to Make Coconut Candy | To make coconut candy squares, you'll need shredded coconut, white sugar, corn syrup, water, butter, salt, baking soda, and a small cake pan. Combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the mixture boils. Then, add the butter, remove the mixture from the heat source, and stir in the remaining ingredients. Pour the mixture into the pan and let it set for a few hours. Then, just cut the solid into small squares and enjoy! | Gather your ingredients. To make these delicious coconut candy squares, you will need: 1 1/2 cups of shredded coconut 2 cups of white sugar 1/2 cup of light corn syrup 1/2 cup of water 2 tablespoons of butter 1/4 teaspoon of salt 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda Prepare a 9x13" cake tray. Before you begin, line a 9x13" cake tray with aluminum foil and spray the foil with a non-stick cooking spray. Set it aside while you prepare the candy mixture. Combine the sugar, water and corn syrup in a saucepan. Place the saucepan over a medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves. Bring the contents of the saucepan to the boil. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature of the mixture -- you want it to reach 240 °F (116 °C). Add the butter and continue to boil. Once the mixture reaches 240 °F (116 °C), add the butter and stir until it's melted and combined. Allow the mixture to continue boiling (without stirring) until it reaches 260 °F (127 °C). Remove from the heat and add remaining ingredients. Once the mixture reaches 260 °F (127 °C), remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the shredded coconut, baking soda and salt, stirring well to combine. The mixture may foam a little at this point. Pour the coconut mixture into the prepared cake tray. Use a spatula to smooth the mixture into an even layer, then leave to set for several hours at room temperature. Once set, cut into small squares and enjoy! Gather your ingredients. To make these chocolate-covered coconut candies, you will need: 1 3/4 cups of confectioners' sugar 1 3/4 cups of shredded coconut 1 cup of chopped almonds 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips Combine the coconut, almonds, sugar and milk. Combine these ingredients in a large bowl until they form a sticky mixture. Use your hands to divide the mixture into 1 inch (2.5 cm) balls, then place them on a greased cookie sheet and leave to chill in the refrigerator for approximately 20 minutes. Melt the chocolate chips. While the coconut candies are chilling, place the chocolate chips in a microwaveable bowl and microwave on high power for one minute. Stir the chocolate, then continue to microwave for 10 to 20 second intervals until the chocolate is completely melted. Dip the coconut candies in chocolate. Once the coconut candies of hardened, dip them into the melted chocolate, then allow the excess to drip off. Place the chocolate-covered candies on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper. If you like, you can sprinkle some extra shredded coconut or flaked almonds on top, to decorate. Allow the chocolate to set before devouring! Gather your ingredients. To make this traditional Jamaican treat, you only need a few simple ingredients: 2 brown coconuts 1 cup of fresh ginger, diced 2 cups of golden brown sugar, packed 3 cups of water Prepare the fresh coconut. Take your fresh brown coconuts and use a screwdriver to poke holes through the eyes of the nut. Drain the coconut water from the center of the coconuts -- use or discard as you wish! Use a hammer to crack the coconuts open and use a butter knife to pry the coconut meat from the shell. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the brown outer layer from the meat, then use a knife to dice the coconut. Tip: You can make it easier to remove the coconut meat from the shell by baking the drained coconut in a 400 degree F oven for 10 minutes. Allow the coconut to become cool to the touch before cracking with the hammer. Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan. Combine the diced coconut, diced ginger, brown sugar and water in a heavy bottomed-saucepan and place over a medium heat. Bring to the boil. Stir the mixture continuously with a large spoon until it boils and the sugar starts to caramelize. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens to prevent the sugar from sticking to bottom and sides of the saucepan. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature -- you want it to reach approximately 295 °F (146 °C). Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet. Once the sugar has caramelized nicely and the mixture becomes very difficult to stir, turn the heat down to the lowest setting. Working quickly, spoon drops of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with waxed paper, using about two tablespoons of mixture per coconut drop. Allow the drops to cool and harden before eating. Gather your ingredients. To make this traditional Nigerian dessert, you will need: One fresh brown coconut 200g of confectioners' sugar (approximately 1 3/4 cups) Prepare the coconut. Use a screwdriver to puncture holes in the eyes of the coconut and drain the coconut water, setting it aside for later. Use a hammer to crack open the coconut, then use a butter knife to pry the meat from the shell. Use a fine grater to grate the coconut meat into long, thin strips. Make sure to grate along the meat, rather than across it. Tip: You can make it easier to remove the coconut meat from the shell by baking the drained coconut in a 400 degree F oven for 10 minutes. Allow the coconut to become cool to the touch before cracking with the hammer. Combine the ingredients in the pot and add water. Place the coconut water, grated coconut and confectioners sugar into a saucepan and stir to combine. Add just enough water to cover the coconut mixture, then place a lid on the saucepan and set to a high heat. Bring the mixture to the boil. Once the coconut mixture starts to boil, remove the lid and stir continuously until most of the water evaporates. Reduce to a low heat and continue stirring while the sugar starts to caramelize. Keep stirring until the coconut pieces start to brown. As the sugar caramelizes, the coconut mixture will start to stick together and the coconut pieces will turn brown. Once this happens, take the saucepan off the heat and spoon the coconut mixture onto a plate. Be careful not to touch the coconut, as it will be extremely hot! Once the coconut has cooled, you can serve it as a dessert or keep it for a sticky sweet snack. | Gather your ingredients. Prepare a 9x13" cake tray. Combine the sugar, water and corn syrup in a saucepan. Bring the contents of the saucepan to the boil. Add the butter and continue to boil. Remove from the heat and add remaining ingredients. Pour the coconut mixture into the prepared cake tray. Gather your ingredients. Combine the coconut, almonds, sugar and milk. Melt the chocolate chips. Dip the coconut candies in chocolate. Gather your ingredients. Prepare the fresh coconut. Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to the boil. Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet. Gather your ingredients. Prepare the coconut. Combine the ingredients in the pot and add water. Bring the mixture to the boil. Keep stirring until the coconut pieces start to brown. |
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