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https://www.wikihow.com/Know-if-Your-Hamster-Is-Dying | How to Know if Your Hamster Is Dying | To know if your hamster is dying, keep a close eye on it to make sure it's eating every day and being active at night. If your hamster stops eating, or if it acts lethargic all day and all night, take it to a vet since it could be a sign that something is wrong. Also, if your hamster has diarrhea along with these symptoms, it could be a sign that it has a serious infection that can be fatal within 48 hours if left untreated. Make sure you take your hamster to the vet as soon as possible if you think something is wrong so it can receive the treatment it needs. | Spend time with your hamster every day. It is important to spend time with your hamster every day so that you know her normal behavior. A change in your hamster's behavior is an important indicator that she is sick. If you don't spend time with your hamster regularly, you might not recognize important changes in your hamster's behavior. Get into a routine, so that you spend the same part of the day with your hamster. This will help you get accustomed to how the hamster is acting during the same period of time every day. Observe your hamster’s eating habits. A healthy hamster will eat regularly throughout the day. Although hamsters will sleep during the day, they will wake up frequently to eat. Be careful to note if your hamster is eating and how much he is eating. If your hamster is eating less, but still eating, keep very close watch over his eating over the next day or two. If your hamster stops eating altogether, you should take your hamster to the veterinarian right away. Observe your hamster’s activity. Hamsters are normally very active, especially during the night. Your hamster will likely sleep during much of the day, so do not worry if your hamster sleeps a lot when the sun is out. If your hamster appears lethargic all the time and does not want to play, then she might be sick. If your hamster begins to act much less active and playful than in the past, pay close attention over the next couple of days. If the hamster's activity levels do not return to normal, take your hamster to the veterinarian. Hamsters will naturally hibernate when the temperature stays cold for a long time. If you think your hamster is hibernating, indicated by what appears to be a very deep sleep and extremely shallow breath, warm up the area and make sure there is food and water on hand for when the hamster awakens. Check for diarrhea. A common illness in hamsters is called “wet tail” and is accompanied by diarrhea. It can be evidence of a very serious infection. Check the base of your hamster's tail for a wet, mucus-like substance. If your hamster has diarrhea, accompanied by changes to eating and activity levels, it may be wet tail. Wet tail can be fatal within 48 hours. Therefore, you need to take action immediately and see the veterinarian. If the veterinarian finds a case of wet tail, he might prescribe antibiotics, anti-diarrheal, or give fluids. Look at the hamster’s skin. Changes to your hamster's skin can be indicative of health problems. In particular, look for signs of infection, like redness, swelling, and abscesses. Red, flakey skin can be a sign of an infection or of other skin diseases. Check for dehydration by lifting the loose skin (the scruff) over the hamster's shoulders. Let go and it should snap straight back into place — this is normal. If the hamster is dehydrated the skin "tents" or stays in a peak. This is a serious sign and you should get the hamster checked by a vet. Your hamster may scratch more when she has a skin problem. This can help tip you off to the fact that one exists. However, it can also cause infection if the hamster is picking at her skin. Look at the hamster’s fur. Normally, a hamster's fur should be be full and shiny. As hamsters age, their fur will thin. This is normal. However, if your hamster starts to lose fur all at once, he might be sick. Wet, matted fur around the hamster's belly and tail can be signs of an infection. Look at the hamster’s face, mouth and eyes. In particular, look for a runny nose, red or inflamed eyes, and puffy cheeks. Hamsters often get a runny nose when sick, and are particularly vulnerable to catching colds. These are often not the most deadly of sicknesses, but if they persist, see a veterinarian. Your hamster has pouches in his cheeks to carry food around. If you notice that these pouches look full for a long time, it may be that they are infected. | Spend time with your hamster every day. Observe your hamster’s eating habits. Observe your hamster’s activity. Check for diarrhea. Look at the hamster’s skin. Look at the hamster’s fur. Look at the hamster’s face, mouth and eyes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Bandana-Bracelet | How to Make a Bandana Bracelet | To make a bandana bracelet, start by laying it out as a square on a flat surface, with one corner pointing at you. Then fold it into a triangle by pulling the bottom corner up to the top corner. Next, take a couple of inches from the top and fold it down, one fold at a time, until you reach the bottom. If you want it thicker or thinner, start back at the triangle and change the width of your folds. When it's just right, wrap it around your wrist. Tie it off, tuck in the ends, and you're bandana braceleted. | Open up the bandana. Lay the bandana on a flat surface. Spread the edges outward until the bandana is a large square. Smooth any folds so that the bandana lies flat. Turn the bandana so that one corner is facing you. This will make it easier to fold into a bracelet. Fold the square bandana into a triangle. Take the bottom corner of the bandana in your fingers and bring it to meet the top corner. Smooth the center fold and you should have a nice triangle shape. If you don't want your bracelet to be as thick you can cut your bandana across the fold line to create two triangles. Once folded, the half bandana will look very similar but it will feel a lot less bulky. Fold the top corner down. Take a couple inches of fabric from the top corner and fold it down over the rest of the bandana. You can fold the section slightly larger or smaller depending the width you want your bracelet to be. Continue to fold over the width of the bandana until you reach the folded part of the triangle you made. Begin wrapping the bandana. Start by placing the folded bandana on your wrist. Leave a little more length hanging on the left side than the right, if wearing it on your right hand. Take the right side and wrap in under your wrist, then pull it over the top of your wrist. If you have a flat surface to work on, you can also lay your wrist on the folded bandana. Leave a little more of the length of the bandana on your right side. Fold the right end over your wrist. Then, fold the right end underneath your wrist again so the end is sticking out on the right side again. Wrap the other segment. Hold the part that went over your wrist with the hand that is wearing the bandana. Then grab the left piece with your free hand. Wrap the left end of the bandana under your wrist, then over the top of the wrist. Grab the ends. Hold on to the left end with your left hand. Use your fingers on your right hand to grab the right end. If you have to, use your teeth to grab it and move it to where your fingers can hold the end in place by pressing it to your palm. If you're with a friend, have your friend grab the ends and tie them for you. Tie the ends into a knot. Bring the left end over the right end, then wrap it underneath. Pull the left end down while holding the right end in place to tighten the knot. Knot the ends twice to help keep your bracelet from coming undone too easily. Adding a second knot may make difficult to untie, and you may have to even cut it off to remove it. If you want to keep the bracelet on permanently, adjust the bracelet to a comfortable size and tie a second knot. Wrap the left end around the right again and pull the end through the loop, then pull both ends until tight. You could also use a hair pin, safety pins, or rubber bands to hold your bracelet ends in place. Put a pin through the left end, then through the right end and fasten the pin to keep them together. Or wrap a rubber band around the left and right ends to keep them held together. Either of these methods will work if you have such items handy. Tuck the unwanted ends. Take the remaining tips of fabric sticking out from the knot or pins and tuck them underneath the bracelet. You can also trim off the ends with scissors if you prefer. Cut a 1.5 inch strip from the edge of the bandana. Use scissors to cut a small slit about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) from a corner of the bandana. Hold the bulk of the bandana in one hand and pull the corner until the fabric rips. The strip will tear away in a straight line. Keep going until you have removed the strip from the rest of the bandana. Soak the strip in a bowl of water. Take a small bowl or cup and fill it halfway up with water. Put the bandana strip in the water. Move it around slightly The fabric may be a bit resistant to water, so give it a couple minutes to soak. Remove the bandana strip and squeeze out the excess water. Twist the strip. Twist each end with your fingers. Twist one end away from you, and twist the other end toward you. Eventually you will meet in the middle and have one long twisted piece of fabric. Wrap the strip around your wrist. Hold one end in your right hand. Use your fingers and hold the bandana in place against your palm. Wrap the bandana around with your wrist with your left hand. Wrap the strip around a second time. Bring the bandana around your wrist again. Stop when the end in your left hand reaches your palm again. Adjust the tightness of the bracelet. You might want to leave a little slack in the bracelet so it fits comfortably on your wrist. Just be sure you don't make it too loose so that it falls off easily. Once you tie the knot you won't be able to adjust it, so find a comfortable fit first. Tie the ends with a double knot. Keep the right end in place with your right fingers and your palm. Bring the left end over the right, then underneath. Wrap the left end around your finger and pull the right end through to make the knot. Try resting your arm against a table to help hold the bracelet in place if you are tying the knot yourself. You may also need to use your teeth to grab and hold pieces. You may want to ask a friend to help to tie the knots if possible. Having an extra set of hands will make tying the bracelet much easier to do. Cut off the excess. Use the scissors to trim the excess off the ends. You can leave the knot on top or tuck it underneath the bracelet if you want. | Open up the bandana. Fold the square bandana into a triangle. Fold the top corner down. Begin wrapping the bandana. Wrap the other segment. Grab the ends. Tie the ends into a knot. Tuck the unwanted ends. Cut a 1.5 inch strip from the edge of the bandana. Soak the strip in a bowl of water. Twist the strip. Wrap the strip around your wrist. Wrap the strip around a second time. Adjust the tightness of the bracelet. Tie the ends with a double knot. Cut off the excess. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Yellow-Armpit-Stains | How to Remove Yellow Armpit Stains | To remove yellow armpit stains, pretreat the fabric by soaking it in cool or warm water. Next, mix your chosen cleaning agent, such as baking soda, Oxiclean, or laundry detergent, with warm water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste mixture directly to the stain, covering it completely, then scrub it into the fabric with an old toothbrush. Let it sit for an hour, then wash the fabric as you normally would with hot water. | Choose your preferred stain removal remedy. There are multiple ways to get out those yellow stains. Whether your choice is based on a friend's raving review, or because you already have the product in your cabinet, decide which remedy is the best fit. Choose from the following products then look to the subsequent steps for each individual product. Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) OxiClean (baking soda and hydrogen peroxide) Vodka Dish Detergent White Vinegar Crushed Aspirin (kept safely away from children) Pretreat your stain by soaking in cool or warm water. Thoroughly moisten the stain by pouring the water over the fabric or sponging it on. Stains are actually created by perspiration reacting to the aluminum found in most deodorants and antiperspirants. The combination of the protein found in your sweat combining with the aluminum creates the yellow stain. As the stain is protein based, immediate exposure to hot water sets in the stain. However, hot water is best for actually removing the stain. After submerging in cool water and treating with the remedy of your choice it is advised to wash in hot water to purge the remaining soils. Mix water with the cleaning agent in a separate container. No matter which of the previous products you have chosen, in order to activate the cleaning agents you must mix with warm water. Ratios and mixing specifications for each of the products are listed below. OxiClean, vodka, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, and dish detergent should all be mixed in a container at a 1-1 ratio. Baking soda should be mixed to water at a 3-1 ratio. Aspirin pills must first be crushed. Use 3-4 pills and then mix into a bowl of warm water. See How to Remove Sweat Stains With Aspirin for more specific instructions. Keep aspirin out of reach of children, and be careful not to inhale any of its particles as it's being crushed. Mix until the product has completely combined with the water, either creating a liquid or a paste. After the ingredients have been properly combined you will discover which form your solution has taken. Baking soda will produce a paste. Vodka, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, and aspirin will dissolve into a liquid. You will be soaking the garment or stained area in this mixture, so be sure to have a large enough container for the task. OxiClean and dish detergent will dissolve into water with the given 1-1 ratio. However, you can also create a paste by using more OxiClean or detergent at a 3-1 ratio. Some prefer the paste solution, believing it fights harder against tough stains. Spread a thick layer of paste onto the stain. Make sure you have completely covered the stain before proceeding. Thoroughly scrub the paste into the garment using a toothbrush or a nailbrush. You may need to apply more paste as the fabric absorbs the solution. You will start to see the stain fade away. Although the baking soda paste works well on its own, you can also try pouring vinegar over the stain while you scrub. The vinegar will immediately bubble up, so use caution. Baking soda is a base while vinegar is an acid, so the two combined produce an explosion of sorts in the form of bubbles. This reaction's abrasive qualities helps eliminate residue while the bubbles lift the stain out of the fabric. Let the stain sit for an hour. This will give the cleaning agents enough time to settle in and break up the chemicals causing discoloration. If the stains are especially bad, let the treatment sit overnight. Wash as usual in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Some materials do not react well with heat, either shrinking the garment or fading the color. Check the garment's tags for washing instructions. Repeat steps as necessary. Tough stains may not completely fade after the first treatment. Scrub more paste into the stain, let sit and wash again until the discoloration has completely faded. If using OxiClean or detergent paste, try soaking tough stains in the liquid form as well. This will increase the stain-fighting power. Follow the steps in the section below. For extremely tough stains, create one of the paste solutions to use in combination with the soak. Mix baking soda or higher proportions of OxiClean, detergent or crushed aspirin with water in order to create a paste. Scrub the paste into the stain with a toothbrush or nailbrush as described above. Let sit for an hour. Pour liquid solutions into a bucket or container large enough to soak the stained garment. You really only need to soak the stained portion, but you can submerge the entire garment if you like. For lesser stains, soaking may not be necessary. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and apply to stained areas. Generously spray and allow the solution to soak in before washing as usual. If you have sensitive skin you may want to wear rubber gloves for the following steps, as the cleaning agents contain strong chemicals. Stay away from bleach products when soaking clothing, as the chemical oxidize dyes which could lead to discoloration. The items listed in this article do not contain bleach and should be fabric safe. Let the fabric soak. Soaking time really depends on how light or dark the stain. Lighter stains may only need to sit for 15 to 30 minutes, while dark stains can sit for a few hours, possibly even overnight. Monitor your garment. If the stain fades quickly, remove from the soak. If the stain barely fades in an hour, leave overnight. If a garment has been stained for a long period of time, it will be harder to remove. Try to treat your armpit stains as soon as they appear. Wash as usual in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Some materials do not react well with heat, either shrinking the garment or fading the color. Check the garment's tags for washing instructions. Use an aluminum free deodorant or antiperspirant. Stains are actually created by perspiration reacting to the aluminum found in most deodorants and antiperspirants. The combination of the protein found in your sweat combining with the aluminum creates the yellow stain. Tom's of Maine makes an aluminum free line of deodorant. Wear less deodorant or antiperspirant. Caking on the deodorant or antiperspirant could lead to worse discoloration. Try to use sparingly. Excess deodorant will only cling onto your clothing and create more stains. Take preventative measures. Before wearing, after washing, turn the garment inside out. Sprinkle baby powder liberally over armpit areas and iron. This works best for cotton or cotton blend fabrics. Wear a less expensive undershirt. To keep stains away from nicer dress shirts, use an undershirt as a buffer zone between your sweat and the garment. Treat your stain every time you wash. Wash stained garment immediately after wearing and pretreat with a stain removal product, such as OxiClean or Spray and Wash. Fresh stains are far easier to treat than old ones. By consistently treating the stain, you keep the garment clean and prevent it from settling into the fabric. | Choose your preferred stain removal remedy. Pretreat your stain by soaking in cool or warm water. Mix water with the cleaning agent in a separate container. Mix until the product has completely combined with the water, either creating a liquid or a paste. Spread a thick layer of paste onto the stain. Thoroughly scrub the paste into the garment using a toothbrush or a nailbrush. Let the stain sit for an hour. Wash as usual in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Repeat steps as necessary. For extremely tough stains, create one of the paste solutions to use in combination with the soak. Pour liquid solutions into a bucket or container large enough to soak the stained garment. Let the fabric soak. Wash as usual in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Use an aluminum free deodorant or antiperspirant. Wear less deodorant or antiperspirant. Take preventative measures. Wear a less expensive undershirt. Treat your stain every time you wash. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Go-Back-to-School | How to Go Back to School | To get ready to go back to school, pack your backpack the night before so you're not rushed in the morning. Make sure you include everything you'll need for your first day, like pens, notebooks, binders, and your lunch. Also, pack a planner so you can write down any homework assignments or projects you're given in your classes. If you want to save yourself even more time in the morning, pick out your back-to-school outfit the night before your first day. | Get in some back to school shopping. Create a budget and a list before diving into a shopping spree. Use social media or just ask your friends if they want to have a clothing swap if your budget is tight. You don't have to get expensive pieces like jackets or designer tops. Focus on smaller accessories that make it easier to switch up your look. If you're lucky to have your birthday fall close to the start of school, ask for gift cards or make a wishlist of clothes you'd like so your family and friends know exactly what to get you. Think about the main outfits you'd need throughout the school year. Do you need gym clothes? Should you get a new winter coat? Repurpose your wardrobe. Look through your closet and see if you can find new ways to wear your clothing. You could layer older pieces with something new to create an entirely new outfit. For example, if you have a favourite pair of shorts you could still wear it in the fall if you layer it with a sweater and tights. You could also wear a summer dress with leggings, a cardigan, and boots. If you're a guy, wear your favourite short sleeve shirt under a sweater so that the collar gives you the right touch of flair. Find a new style. Style can go beyond a wardrobe change. The start or school gives you an opportunity to reinvent your look. Rather than change your wardrobe, try changing your hair colour or style. You can also change your makeup and nail color. Make a statement with bold colours. Find inspiration from celebrities or look on social media sites if you don't know where to start. You can also mimic the look of an older student or family member that you admire. Pinterest is a great site to search for style as it allows you to save images and follow influencers. Whether you're just getting a trim or going for a completely different hair style, make sure you find a hairstylist that you trust. Don't be afraid to ask them questions about what look suits the shape of your face and texture of your hair. You do not have to trim anything off your hair if you learn how to create different styles. For example, learn different braids or style your bangs.Research or ask a stylist which hair products work best for your hair. For example, gel is great for hold but gives you a wet look. Clean out your backpack. Relieve the stress from your shoulders and back by keeping your backpack clean and organized. Pack up the night before so that you don't feel rushed in the morning. Make sure you look over the next day's lesson before you pack. Clean out any food or gym equipment so that your bag doesn't smell. Keep food and liquid in separate compartments and containers to make sure they stay fresh and protected. Pick up supplies. Go over what you can still use from the year before and make a list of the essentials. Check with your teachers, older students, or online for tips on specific brands that may be worth their price. Create your list based on what makes your life easier. Just because something looks good, doesn't mean that it's worth the price. For example, a binder with your favourite band on it may be twice the cost of a waterproof binder that has extra compartments for your pens. Use a timetable or scheduler. Whether you download an app or use a physical scheduler, learn how to follow a scheduler so that you don't miss any important deadlines. Staying ahead of projects, presentations, and exams lets you balance your school work with your social activities. Planners and schedulers give a quick snapshot of your schoolwork. Understand how much time you need for projects, papers, and studying so you can keep your grades up. Cramming and last minute work is a surefire way to increase your stress level and lower your GPA. Read reviews and forums to ensure you download the best scheduling app for your needs. Learn anti-stress and anxiety techniques. School can bring stress and anxiety on a variety of levels. Remember that you're not alone. Talk to your friends, family, and your teachers about how you're feeling. Take advantage of any counseling and stress management resources your school offers. Contact older students who have gone through the same process to ease your mind about the upcoming school year. You can also reach out to other students outside of your social group. Understand that it may take time and effort but establishing a solid support system of peers is an essential way to relieve stress. Be confident. Understand that you do not have to change your personality or do anything that you don't want to. Avoid peer pressure by focusing on your studies and being comfortable in your own skin. Get plenty of rest. Summer time is a great time to have longer days with warm weather and free time. Your new schedule may be a shock to your system so don't underestimate how tired your body will be as you change from easy late nights to early morning class. Sleep early during school nights because you don't want to be grumpy and lackadaisical in class. If you need to take a nap, limit it to 90 minutes at most to make sure you're able to do your homework and still fall asleep at a decent hour. Stay organized. The first couple of weeks back can be very hectic as you try to settle in to your classes and extracurricular activities. Prepare your lunches, outfits, school bag the night before. Use the weekend to map out your week. Balance your social life. You may put a lot of pressure on yourself to do well in your studies. Having a strong support system and an outlet for stress can help you get through the school year. Check in with friends and family to let them know how your transition back to school is going. If there is anything causing your stress, they may be able to provide help or at least someone you can vent to. Be disciplined and responsible. It may be easy to think that transitioning back to school will come within time but you have to understand that only you can can make a smooth transition. Continuing to stay up late or follow your holiday schedule will make it more difficult to transition back to school. Your friends may have easier schedules or may not have as many responsibilities as you do. Let them know that you have to limit your time with them now that school has started. Eat healthy. Food plays a major role in how much energy you have during the day. Stay away from junk food and replace them with fruit and vegetables. Keep your mind and body healthy to get yourself through what can be a stressful transition. Allow yourself to fail. The transition may be more difficult than you anticipated. It's okay to get a low grade on your first assignment or find it difficult to make new friends. Ask yourself what you can do differently to assure that you won't repeat it. Everything is school can be a learning experience especially failure. Talk to your teachers. Teachers know that this is a difficult time of year and understand that you are not the only one going through the transition. Teachers can not only help you develop effective study habits and work habits but they can also help you if you're finding it difficult to make friends. Learn the rules. Your school may have changed a few small things or you may be in a new school completely. Know the rules so that you don't find yourself in trouble for small infractions. For example, there may be rules about using a mobile phone or the length of your skirt or shorts, so make sure to check. Have fun in the last few days of your holiday. Make sure to enjoy the remainder of your holiday. Creating lasting memories will help you when you're stressed or anxious during the transition back to school. It may also allow you to build your social circle and concentrate in school as you have gotten the holidays out of your system and are now looking for other things to occupy your brain. Establish a routine. Make a habit of homework, early nights, and early mornings. It's easy to feel overwhelmed if your life feels chaotic and out of order. Ask parents, friends, and teachers to help you with your routine if you don't know where to start. Better yet, let everyone know your new routine so they know when you've fallen off track and can remind you what your routine should be. Create a central calendar with your family. Your calendar should not just include your activities. Including the activities of the entire family gives you a snapshot of when your parents can help you best especially if you have other siblings. It also will remind your parents when you have important exams or due dates so they can support you in anyway they can. | Get in some back to school shopping. Repurpose your wardrobe. Find a new style. Clean out your backpack. Pick up supplies. Use a timetable or scheduler. Learn anti-stress and anxiety techniques. Be confident. Get plenty of rest. Stay organized. Balance your social life. Be disciplined and responsible. Eat healthy. Allow yourself to fail. Talk to your teachers. Learn the rules. Have fun in the last few days of your holiday. Establish a routine. Create a central calendar with your family. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Your-Hair-Out-Long | How to Grow Your Hair Out Long | If you're already trimming your hair every 8-10 weeks, the next best way to grow your hair out is to stop using hair dryers, straighteners, or curlers, and leave your hair down whenever possible. Avoid shampooing your hair more than 3 times a week, and pat your hair dry instead of wrapping it in a towel. Try taking biotin supplements to maximize hair growth. | Cut down on your use of hot styling tools. While they may make your hair look good for a few hours, hot styling tools like hair dryers, hair straighteners, and hair curlers can weaken your hair and hinder hair growth. Try to reduce your use of these tools or cut them out of your hair care routine. Do minimal hair styling, with minimal hair products, so your hair can stay healthy and grow out. If you decide to use hot styling tools, set them to a low heat setting, no higher than 325 degrees Fahrenheit, and apply a heat protectant spray, gel, or cream before you use the tool on your hair. This will help to protect your hair from drying out and breaking off. Leave your hair down whenever possible. Pulling your hair back into a ponytail or a tight updo can lead to breakage and damaged strands. Rather than using clips, pins, and hair ties in your hair, go for a more relaxed look. Let your hair flow long and over time, it will grow out long and healthy. Use shampoo only two to three times a week. Reduce your shampoo use to only two to three times a week so you do not dry out or overwash your hair. This will allow your hair to stay strong and healthy, leading to better long term growth. If your scalp gets oily or itchy due to underwashing, you can increase the amount of times you shampoo during the week. Alternatively, you can use dry shampoo to clean your scalp and hair in between washings. When you shampoo your hair, you should massage the shampoo into your scalp and try not to rub your hair with the shampoo. To keep your hair healthy, you should focus on conditioning your hair every time you shower. Conditioner is great for strengthen your hair, as it replaces the lipids and proteins in your hair shafts. You can also use a conditioning treatment to give your hair an extra boost, such as a treatment that contains natural ingredients to encourage hair growth and soothe your scalp. Rinse out your conditioner using cold water, which seals the cuticle. Pat your hair dry after a shower. Avoid wrapping your wet hair tightly in a towel as doing this can cause breakage and put stress on the strands of your hair. Instead, use a dry towel to pat your hair so you do not tear, pull, or rip at your wet hair. If you can't break your towel wrapping habit, use thin towels and soft microfiber towels. These towels are made of material that is light on your hair and soaks up the water in your hair without damaging it. Get your hair trimmed once split ends appear. Though it may seem like the wrong move when you are trying to grow out your hair, getting your hair trimmed once you develop split ends can actually encourage hair growth. Split ends start as dry, brittle parts of your hair and if they are not trimmed, can work their way up the strands of your hair. If you leave your split ends for too long, when you do go to your hairdresser, she may be forced to trim a significant amount of length off you hair to get rid of the split ends. Make sure you see your hairdresser every 10 to 12 weeks for a trim. Schedule appointments ahead with your hairdresser so your hair stays healthy and free of split ends. If your hair grows quickly and you have very damaged ends, then you may want to get trims every 6 to 8 weeks. Switch to silk pillowcases. Though it may seem luxurious, sleeping on silk pillowcases can actually encourage hair growth. Pillowcases made of cotton or linen can pull and tug at your hair, leading to breakage when you move around while sleeping. The soft, slick texture of silk will not create any unwanted friction, keeping your hair smooth, long, and knot-free. Alternatively, you can sleep with a silk scarf wrapped around your hair. Use a hair mask. Encourage your hair to grow long by applying a hair mask once or twice a week. Make your own natural oil mask or purchase over-the-counter hair masks at your local drug store. To make a hair mask at home, combine 1 cup coconut oil with 1 tablespoon macadamia oil, almond oil, and jojoba oil. Massage the mask into damp hair and let it sit for ten minutes. Then, shampoo and condition your hair to remove the mask. Do a castor oil treatment. Castor oil is a natural substance that can encourage hair growth. Applying a castor oil hair mask can lead to hair that grows longer and healthier. Begin by massaging your scalp with 1 cup of castor oil. Allow the oil to fall from your scalp onto the strands of your hair. Once your scalp and hair are covered, use a plastic shower cap on your head to keep the oil in place. Spread a towel on your pillowcase before you go to sleep so you do not get oil all over your pillow. Let the oil sit on your scalp and hair overnight. Wash and condition your hair the following morning to remove the oil. Apply a hot oil scalp massage. A hot oil massage can help to breakdown any oil or dirt on your scalp and stimulate hair growth from the roots of your hair. Use natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, and argan oil. Heat the oil by placing the bottle or tube in a bowl of warm water. Make sure you test the oil before you apply it to make sure it isn't too hot. It should be at a comfortable temperature that is not burning to the touch and will not damage your scalp or your hair. Use your fingers to gently massage your scalp with the warm oil in slow, circular motions. You can do this after you have taken a shower. You can also ask a friend or partner to massage your scalp for you. Make sure you massage the oil in your scalp for fifteen to twenty minutes. After fifteen to twenty minutes, shampoo your hair well to remove the oil. To limit shampooing, it's a good idea to do your oil treatment on the same days you already plan to wash your hair. Pack your diet with foods that are high in protein. Boosting your protein intake can help to promote healthy hair growth and prevent any hair shedding or hair loss due to diet. Your diet should have a balance of meat, fish, beans, nuts, and whole grains. If you do not eat meat, make sure you get enough protein through soy based foods, as well as beans, nuts, and grains. The key to an effective high protein diet is to choose your protein sources wisely. Cut out processed meats or full fat dairy products, as these are not healthy sources of protein. Include a high amount of healthy carbs in your diet, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Integrate hair-boosting supplements into your diet. Certain multivitamins and supplements, such as Biotin and Viviscal, are known to promote hair growth. These products contain vitamin C and vitamin B, which are key vitamins for hair growth. Talk to your doctor before you take any supplements to check that you are taking the proper dosage and that the supplements will not conflict with any medications you are currently on. Vitamins like biotin can work differently on people, and some people even experience side effects. Focus on stress relieving activities like yoga and meditation. Pulling your hair out when you're stressed isn't just a turn of phrase; stress can affect your cortisol levels and lead to reduced hair growth. Lower your cortisol levels by doing stress relieving activities like yoga , meditation , and deep breathing exercises. This will lead to a more peaceful life and a fuller, longer head of hair. | Cut down on your use of hot styling tools. Leave your hair down whenever possible. Use shampoo only two to three times a week. Pat your hair dry after a shower. Get your hair trimmed once split ends appear. Switch to silk pillowcases. Use a hair mask. Do a castor oil treatment. Apply a hot oil scalp massage. Pack your diet with foods that are high in protein. Integrate hair-boosting supplements into your diet. Focus on stress relieving activities like yoga and meditation. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Teaching-Cover-Letter | How to Write a Teaching Cover Letter | If you need to write a teaching cover letter, address your letter to a specific person, like the head of the hiring committee or the principal of the school. In the opening sentence, say what position you're interested in applying for, and include how you found out about the teaching position. Mention something that attracts you to that specific school, like a quality they emphasize in their mission statement. In addition, include the reason you're interested in the job and how your previous experience makes you a good candidate. | Choose a standard font style. Using an over ornamental or fancy font style will make your letter look unprofessional. Stick with Arial or Times New Roman at a size of 11 or 12. Include your name and address. In the top left of your letter include your name and address. Even if you are sending the letter in an email, this is a good idea in case the letter gets printed out, all the information will be there. Some cover letter writers will include this info centered in the header with their name in a slightly larger font. You do want your cover letter and resume to stick out, but adding too much flare can detract from the content of your letter. It may also make you seem unprofessional. Use your discretion. Put the name and title (Principal, Chair, Dean) of the person you are sending the letter to. Skip a line after your own address and then include the receiver's information as well as the address of the school. Address the letter to a specific person. Avoid starting your letter with “To Whom it may concern.” Instead, if you know who is in charge of the hiring committee, address the letter directly to them. If the job is for an elementary or high school position, you might address it to the principal or assistant principal. If you are applying for a job at a college, address your letter to the Chair of the department you are hoping to teach in. If you can find these names online, don't be afraid to call the school office and ask. Say what position you are interested in applying for. Schools may be reviewing resumes for multiple jobs. Start off by telling them what job you are interested in. ”I'm interested in applying for the 4th grade Math Teacher position.” I am writing today to express interest in the Adjunct Literature Professor position in your department of English.” Tell them how you found out about the teaching position. If you heard about from someone who already works at the school, include that information. Letting them know you found out about the job from their website can show you have an interest in that school in particular. Say something about the school. Do a little research about the school. Read the mission statement. Mention something that attracts you to this particular school. "I know that one of Douglas Elementary's key missions is to incorporate issues of diversity and social justice into your curriculum. This is already something I try to bring into my own classroom on a regular basis, and I am excited by the prospect of working with other like minded educators and seeing what they have to teach me." Include the reason you are interested in the job. This only needs to be a few sentences. Was there something about this position that took your attention over others you've seen? What is it about the experience you're hoping to gain or challenges you're hoping to face that excites you about the job? Start by mentioning how your previous experience makes you a good candidate for this position. “I believe that my Masters Degree in Special Education, as well as my three years of classroom experience make me an excellent candidate for this position.” If this is your first teaching job be sure to include any relevant internships or student teaching experience. If you were a teacher's aid in college you can mention that here. List your credentials. Briefly explain any degrees you hold. This doesn't need to be a recounting of your academic history, just your degree and perhaps the school where you got it. Feel free to mention any honors or awards you received. Tell them what you think you can bring to this position. This is your chance to tell them a bit about you as a teacher. Include examples from classes you've taught. You may mention classes you've taken in the past. Mention the types of students you’ve worked with. Let them know if you have experience with students with special needs. Include the grade levels you've taught or any special classes you've been a part of. "I have had the opportunity to work with several students with learning disabilities." "I received special training (be specific about where and when) to help me understand and aid students with severe trauma." If you have any supplemental training such as dealing with students with emotional disorders include that here. If you speak more than one language or are proficient in American sign language be sure to include that information along with any certifications you hold. Allude to your passion for teaching. This is a good thing to keep in mind throughout, but adding a few sentences in your third paragraph about why you love teaching or what initially drew you to the profession will give administrators a sense of who you are and what you can bring to a classroom. "My passion for teaching began the summer of my sophomore year of college when I spent the summer as a camp counselor and was given the opportunity to teach a class focusing on local plant life." Include a brief example or specific moment from a class you were in that inspired you. Talk about a past experience where you felt like you really helped a student or group of students. Why was it important to you? Mention any areas you are specifically interested in. If you are passionate about literacy or physical education, let them know. Include any skills outside of teaching that might be relevant. If you've coached little league or been a mentor to a young person. If you have proficiency using Microsoft Word or Photoshop you can mention this as a skill you can teach your students or use to help create classroom materials. Use active language. Using words like coach, facilitate, foster, guide and support when describing your classroom culture or teaching style will make you sound more dynamic. Keep it short. They've just read all about your credentials. Close the letter gracefully in a few sentences. Thank the person. Thank them for taking the time to review your resume. "Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and review my CV. I look forward to hearing from you." Express interest in an interview. Tell them you look forward to the possibility of getting to meet with them. "I am available to meet at your convenience." Say you are interested in learning more about the school. Mention something specific. “I look forward to the possibility of getting to talk with you further about your award winning math team.” End the letter with “Sincerely”. Skip a few lines and write “Sincerely” at the bottom of the letter on the left. Be sure to capitalize “Sincerely” Put a comma after the the word. Type and sign your name. Skip five or six lines after sincerely and type your full name. Print the letter out put your signature in the space between Sincerely and your typed name. | Choose a standard font style. Include your name and address. Put the name and title (Principal, Chair, Dean) of the person you are sending the letter to. Address the letter to a specific person. Say what position you are interested in applying for. Tell them how you found out about the teaching position. Say something about the school. Include the reason you are interested in the job. Start by mentioning how your previous experience makes you a good candidate for this position. List your credentials. Tell them what you think you can bring to this position. Mention the types of students you’ve worked with. Allude to your passion for teaching. Mention any areas you are specifically interested in. Include any skills outside of teaching that might be relevant. Use active language. Keep it short. Thank the person. Express interest in an interview. End the letter with “Sincerely”. Type and sign your name. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Certified-Translator | How to Become a Certified Translator | If you want to get certified as a translator by the American Translators Association, you first need to check what languages they offer certifications in. If they have the language you want, see that you meet their preliminary requirements by being a member of their organization and providing a reading proficiency test in both your source and target languages. You also need to fulfill their education or experience criteria, which you can do in a number of ways. One way is to hold a bachelor's degree and have 2 years of translation work experience. Other ways to meet this requirement are to have a bachelor's degree from an approved translation and interpretation institute or to be currently certified by the Fédération Internationale des Traducteurs. Once you've determined that you're eligible, you need to pass their certification exam, which includes things like comprehension and writing. To increase your chance of passing, you may want to take a practice test beforehand. | Check the languages on offer. The American Translators Association offers generalized certification programs for translators and is widely recognized, both nationally and internationally. You can obtain a qualification for translating into English and for translating from English into your target language. Certification is available for translating into English from Arabic, Croatian, Danish, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish. Certification is also available in translating from English into Chinese, Croatian, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and Ukrainian. Check that you meet their preliminary requirements. The ATA has strict eligibility requirements which must be met. The ATA website explains the system and requirements in more detail but there are two core criteria which must be met prior to making your application. You must be a member of the ATA to apply for certification but you can become a member at the same time as making your test application. You must provide a reading proficiency test in both your source and target languages from the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.) Fulfill the conditions for accreditation. Eligibility requirements for becoming certified by the ATA are a combination of education, experience, and assessed proficiency. To be eligible to apply you must meet one of the following criteria: To be currently certified by the Fédération Internationale des Traducteurs. To hold a bachelor's degree from an approved translation and interpretation institute which is on the approved list of the ATA Education and Pedagogy Committee. To hold a bachelor's degree and two years proven work experience as a translator. To have at least five years proven work experience as a translator. Take the Test. This is a challenging three-hour exam that will cover: comprehension of the source-language, translation techniques, and writing in your target language. You will be graded on your grammar and choice of words as well as the overall quality and accuracy of your translation. To give yourself the best chance of success on the ATA test, make sure you have hit the level of at least 'Advanced-Low' on the ACTFL scale before attempting the ATA certification examination. Take advantage of the practice tests which are available from the ATA website. Candidates are provided with three passages. Passage A might be a newspaper editorial, an essay, a non-fiction book. Passage B may be technical, scientific or medical in content. Passage C may be a financial, business or legal document. Candidates must translate two written passages. A is compulsory and candidates can choose either B or C. Use your accredited status to progress your career. Once you receive your certification you will also receive an ATA-certified translator seal, and a professional services listing in the ATA Directory of Translation and Interpreting Services. This will enable you to market yourself to employers as a professional who is approved to industry standards. The ATA seal will document your certification number which you can use on your documents. Once your name is listed on the ATA Directory of Translators and Interpreters any individual or company seeking a professional translator will be able to find you and see your contact details. Check your eligibility. Court and legal translating are set apart from general translating duties due to the high ethical standards required to deal with defendants, litigants, victims, and witnesses in civil and criminal cases. You can become a certified Federal Interpreter in Spanish - or a State Interpreter in any of 20 languages. Eligibility requirements for state interpreters vary from state to state so check with your own court interpreting program. Eligibility requirements for federal interpreters are to have native-like mastery of English and Spanish as well as to be able to perform three modes of interpretation at speed: consecutive interpreting, simultaneous interpreting, and sight translation of documents. The sensitivity and complexity of interpretation in court settings means you must work rapidly and precisely. Sit the federal interpreter test. To be a federally certified interpreter, you must pass a two-part (English and Spanish) written and oral exam. The FCICE handbook tells you how to prepare for the written and oral examinations with specific advice on error detection and the ability to use synonyms. A good tip for success is to take the online FCICE self-assessment test. Be honest with yourself about your true skill levels. This will arm you with knowledge about the areas you need to work on to make sure you ace the test. The FCICE website offers candidates full-length practice examinations. Take advantage of them to give you insight into the questions you will need to answer on the test. Sit the state interpreter test. You must pass a two-part test which can be taken in your area. Test requirements and fees vary from state to state so it is vital to consult the specific requirements for your area. Take advantage of the practice tests on the NCSC website to help you prepare, identify your specific skill gaps and take steps to remedy them. A great tool are the self-study resources and toolkits on the NCSC website. These outline study materials, reference materials, consecutive and simultaneous dictionaries for your target language. Use your accredited status to progress your career. Once you have qualified you will be nationally recognized as a professional interpreter in a legal setting. These skills are transferable to different geographic areas and areas of expertise. It will show your commitment and ethics and will ensure that anyone you deal with will be assured of your competence and ethical standards. Federal court interpreter certification is recognized at the national level by both state and federal courts. State court interpreter certification is subject to reciprocity requirements that vary by state. Check your eligibility. If your interest is in working in the scientific or medical field, then the International Medical Interpreters Association offer certification through their Certified Medical Interpreter program (CMI. If you can meet their requirements you can sit a test which examines your written and oral translation and interpretation competency. You must prove you have completed an approved medical interpreter educational program. A registry of approved training programs is posted on the IMIA website.. You must prove your source and target language skills via a Bachelor, Masters, Ph.D., or any other degree from an institution of higher education or ACTFL qualification (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). Sit the test. The knowledge areas that will be tested in the oral and written examinations will cover professional training, experience, and conduct. You will be tested on medical terminology, your role and responsibilities, ethics, competence, knowledge of legal issues and regulations. You can take the exam in the method that best suits you. Either online via your home computer or at one of the many accredited test sites across the country. Use the help and tools included in the CMI Candidate Handbook to focus on improving your weak spots to get you through the test – do you need to learn more about regulations, or legal issues? Use your accredited status. Obtaining this certification provides you with a professional credential that crosses state lines and can be used to obtain work in specialist medical agencies. It demonstrates that you are professionally competent to provide both in-person and remote (virtual) translation and interpretation in medical settings. You will receive your CMI credential in the specific languages for which the oral exam is passed (for example CMI-Spanish, or CMI-Korean). Now you are certified you will not have to have your skills tested by each medical facility that you are contracted to. | Check the languages on offer. Check that you meet their preliminary requirements. Fulfill the conditions for accreditation. Take the Test. Use your accredited status to progress your career. Check your eligibility. Sit the federal interpreter test. Sit the state interpreter test. Use your accredited status to progress your career. Check your eligibility. Sit the test. Use your accredited status. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Burn-Tummy-Fat | How to Burn Tummy Fat | To burn tummy fat, start by increasing your physical activity to at least 2 ½ hours of cardio each week. Include 1 to 2 days of high intensity interval training that alternates between short bursts of high intensity cardio and moderate level exercise. For example, you could sprint for 2 minutes, do five minutes of jogging, and then, repeat this cycle for a total of 20 to 30 minutes. Finally, add strength training to your workout routine 1 to 2 days a week to increase your metabolism. | Eat smaller portions. If you want to lose excess tummy or visceral fat, you'll need to lose weight overall. It's impossible to spot treat and only lose weight in and around your stomach. Eating smaller portions can help you lose the extra weight. There are a variety of ways to cut back on your portions, overall food intake and daily calorie intake. Monitoring this will help you lose weight. Use a food scale or measuring cups to make sure you portion out the correct sizes for each food and your total meal. You can also try eating off of smaller plates and bowls or serving yourself smaller amounts. Counting calories is another way to cut back on your portions and overall food intake. Cutting out about 500 calories daily will generally result in about a 1-2 pound weight loss per week. Choose lean protein sources. Focusing on healthy, leaner protein sources can help you lose weight and decrease the amount of excess stomach fat that you have. Leaner protein sources are lower in fat and calories. They can help fill you up and keep you satisfied without adding too many calories to your day. Protein sources that are higher in fat — like fatty meat or full fat dairy — not only come with extra calories and fat, but also have been linked to some negative side effects. If you consume high quantities of these higher fat proteins, you may increase your risk for high cholesterol levels. Choose leaner sources of protein like: poultry, fish, legumes, tofu and low-fat dairy products. Also make sure to eat the appropriate portion size which is about 3-4 oz of protein per serving. Eat enough fiber. Eating enough fiber daily will help you maintain your overall health but also help you lose weight and decrease your visceral fat stores. Fiber is found in a wide variety of foods. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are great sources of fiber. Aim to eat about 25-38 g of fiber daily. Consume 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Fruits and vegetables are a great source of fiber, but also many essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Aim for 1/2 cup of fruit or 1 cup of vegetables or 2 cups of leafy greens per serving. Go for 100% whole grains. In addition to fruits and vegetables, whole grains are another great source of fiber as well as protein and many B vitamins. A serving is about 1 oz or 1/2 cup. However, you may want to limit the amount of grains you eat, as low carb diets help you lose excess faster than low calorie or low-fat diets. Add healthy fats to your diet. According to some studies, adding heart healthy fats like Omega-3 fats can help you fight excess weight and visceral fat. These heart-healthy fats can also help improve blood pressure, improve blood vessel function and lower triglycerides. Examples include: olive oil, flaxseed, nuts, seeds, olives, avocados, salmon, tuna and mackerel. Avoid unhealthy fats like trans fat or high amounts of saturated fat. Both of these have been shown to have negative effects on your overall health (especially your heart and arteries). These fats are found in processed foods, processed meats, full fat dairy and fatty cuts of meat. Limit simple processed carbohydrates. Simple and very processed carbohydrates (like sugar and white bread) have been linked to increased risk for heart disease, obesity and visceral fat storage. Limiting these foods can help you decrease your excess tummy fat and improve overall health. Simple carbohydrates refers to those types of carbs that are simple in their chemical nature. Sugars of all sorts fall into this category. When they are highly processed as well, they have fewer nutrients. Examples include: white bread, cake, cookies, ice cream, plain pasta, white rice, candy, sweetened beverages, pastries and cereals. These all contain high levels of highly processed, simple carbohydrates and refined sugar. Instead of eating these foods, if you choose to have a grain (like bread, rice or pasta), choose 100% whole grains. As mentioned before, they are much higher in fiber and other beneficial nutrients. In addition, they've been shown to help decrease excess fat. Include 2 1/2 hours of cardio each week. Cardio exercise plays a more important role when you're trying to decrease your stomach fat. Include at least 150 minutes or 2 1/2 hours weekly. Some experts even recommend doing 60 minutes daily specifically for decreasing visceral fat. Activities that will count as moderate-intensity cardio include: fast walking, jogging, using the elliptical swimming or doing an aerobics class. Make one to two days high intensity interval training. HIIT exercises or high intensity interval training can also help decrease excess stomach fat. HIIT is a type of cardio that alternates between short bouts of very, very high intensity activities and more moderate-intensity activities. It gets your heart up very high, however the overall exercise session lasts for a short period of time. In addition to decreasing fat mass, HIIT workouts also burn a lot of calories and help keep your metabolism raise for several hours after completing the workout. Examples of a HIIT style workout would be: sprinting on an incline for two minutes, followed by five minutes of jogging on a flat surface and then repeating this cycle for a total of 20–30 minutes. Increase your baseline activity. Increasing how much you move and walk throughout the day can support your desire to lose weight and decrease your stomach fat. Baseline activities are things you do in your typical day. For example, folding clothes, toweling off after a shower, walking to your car, and cleaning. These can increase your activity level when they are done with enthusiasm and vigor. These activities do not burn many calories or raise your heart rate much by themselves, however at the end of the day, the benefits of many of these activities can add up to support your weight loss. Think about your current day and schedule and find areas where you can move more or take more steps. You might start taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away, squatting down to the floor to pick things up and put them away, toweling yourself off energetically, or doing jumping jacks during commercial breaks. Include one to two days of strength training each week. Although cardio has the most impact on decreasing levels of stomach fat , adding in strength training can still provide with you a variety of health benefits. Strength training can help you increase and maintain lean muscle mass, improve bone density and decrease your risk for osteoporosis and increase your metabolism. Include weight training, isometric exercises or a yoga or pilates class a few times a week to help you reap the benefits of strength training. Do not only do abdominal exercises as spot training does not work. You need to lose excess fat everywhere from your body and tone your entire body for you to notice a decrease in the size of your abdomen. Sleep seven to nine hours nightly. Multiple studies have shown that those people who do not sleep well or enough are at a higher risk of a variety of health conditions including obesity and higher rates of visceral fat. It's typically recommended to sleep at least seven to nine hours per night. Try going to bed earlier or waking up later if you can. It's also recommended to turn off all electronic devices that produce light or noise so that you can get a sound and restful sleep. Manage stress. Studies have also shown that those people with low-grade or chronic stress are predisposed to being overweight and storing that weigh around their mid sections. Stress releases a hormone called cortisol. This seems to have an effect on how you're able to lose weight and where your body choose to store excess energy or fat. Manage stress the best you can. There are a variety of techniques and things you can do to de-stress and relax like: reading a book, journaling, meditation, exercising or talking to a supportive friend or family member. If you're having increased difficulty managing stress, consider speaking to mental health professional. They will be able to guide on more specific methods for stress management. Give up smoking and alcohol. In addition to changing diet and increasing exercise, it's also recommended to stop smoking and drinking alcohol as both of these behaviors can lead to excess abdominal fat. Quit smoking cold turkey or talk to your primary care doctor about prescription smoking cessation medications or ask for a referral to a smoking cessation program. The quicker you can kick the habit, the better. Limit alcohol as much as possible or keep it a minimum. Women shouldn't have more than one drink daily and men shouldn't have more than two drinks per day. | Eat smaller portions. Choose lean protein sources. Eat enough fiber. Add healthy fats to your diet. Limit simple processed carbohydrates. Include 2 1/2 hours of cardio each week. Make one to two days high intensity interval training. Increase your baseline activity. Include one to two days of strength training each week. Sleep seven to nine hours nightly. Manage stress. Give up smoking and alcohol. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sculpt-Clay | How to Sculpt Clay | To sculpt with clay, start by choosing a standard clay if you're glazing or firing your sculpture in an oven. Alternatively, pick a polymer, air dry, or oven bake clay if you don't have access to a kiln. Next, knead the clay to make it more pliable and to remove any air bubbles. Once it's ready, try pinching or rolling it to make shapes. You can also use textured objects to create patterns, or press glitter or pebbles into the clay for decoration. | Choose polymer, oven bake, or air dry clay if you don’t have a kiln. These clays don't require a kiln to bake them, meaning they are an ideal way to start learning about sculpting clay at home. These clays work well for creating small sculptures, ornaments and pinch pots. If you are looking for a bright colored clay, polymer will be your best option. Air dry clay is a good option for all ages as it requires no use of heat. These 3 varieties of clay have a similar appearance to kiln-baked clay once they are dry. Select standard clay if you want to glaze and fire your sculpture. Glazing can be a tricky process but produces a unique and beautiful finish. If you plan to glaze your sculpted clay you will need to use standard clay. This requires the use of a kiln. Contact a local pottery or university ceramic department to rent some space in a kiln. Standard clay can come in a variety of natural shades. Choose one which most suits the style of your sculpture. Cover your work surface with newspaper. Working with clay can be messy so you will need to protect your workspace. Spread newspaper over your workspace so that the whole surface is covered. If you are sculpting clay with young children, consider working outside or over a wipeable floor. Wear old clothes. Clay can sink into the fibers of clothes and is hard to get out. It is likely that you will get clay on your clothes while sculpting so wear something that you don't mind getting dirty. If you have long hair, tie it back into a bun or a ponytail Decide what you would like to sculpt. If it is your first time sculpting clay, a smaller object will be an easier choice. Small boxes, pots, or animal ornaments are all easy and fun options. If you are confident sculpting clay, consider more complex options such as human or animal figurines, or a larger decorative pot. Draw inspiration from objects and nature around you. Take pictures of things you might like to try sculpting. Knead the clay using your palms. Place the clay on a hard surface that is covered with newspaper. Knead the clay to make it more pliable and to remove any air bubbles. Use a knife to cut your clay in half and then place one half on top of the other. Press the 2 pieces of clay together using the palms of your hands. Once again cut the clay in half and repeat the process of pushing the halves together. Repeat this process until all the clay has an even texture and there are no air bubbles. This can take up to 50 kneads. Try to use your palms instead of your fingertips when pushing the clay down. Try the pinch method for an easy first project. This ancient and popular method of sculpting clay is achieved by pinching it with your fingers. Use your fingers to pinch or push sections of the clay to create your desired shapes. Pinch pots can be used to help create different structures, such as heads, cars or animal bodies. Try shaping a simple bowl using the pinch method: Take a fist-sized piece of clay and roll into a ball. Place the ball down on your hard surface and push it down slightly so that it has a flat bottom and can stand by itself. Gently push your thumb into the middle of the bowl to create a small dent. Don't press any further than your first knuckle. This hole makes the opening of the bowl. Place your thumb inside the bowl and your index finger outside the bowl. Pinch them together and pull them up to create the sides of the bowl. Keep pinching and pulling the bowl until you are happy with its shape and size. Roll lumps of clay to create coils. Break the clay into lumps of the same size. Choose a lump size that is appropriate for the size of the item you are hoping to sculpt. Roll each lump on the table into a ball. Slightly press down on each ball and roll it back and forth using the palms of your hands. Roll the coil in different spots until it is an even width. Stop rolling once the coils are your desired width and length. If you are wanting to make a vessel from your coils, note that a longer coil will make a wider structure and a shorter coil will create a narrower structure. Coils are useful for creating many sculptures and details such as caterpillars, eyebrows or patterns. Stack clay coils to create a vessel. This method is good for forming the body of objects such as pots, vases or figurines. The length of your coils will determine the width of your creation. Use this method to help you sculpt your coils into your desired shape: Pinch the ends of each coil together and shape the coil into the shape you want. For example, if you want a heart-shaped vase you would shape each coil into a heart shape and pinch the ends together. Place the coils on top of each other to form a stack. Put gentle pressure on the top of the coil stack to help the coils join together. Gently press on the side of the structure to smooth out the walls. If you're stack isn't stable, start again and use thicker coils. Roll and trim clay into slabs. Flat slabs of clay can be fused together to make different objects, such as a box or a house. Cut your flat shapes into different shapes to create unique objects Roll a lump of clay using a rolling pin, until the whole slab is an even height. Cut the slab into your desired shapes using a knife. When making a cube, cut the slab into 6 squares of the same size. Place a ruler over the clay to help you make slabs that are the same size. Make small cuts along the edges of the slabs to roughen them up. This will help the slabs join together. Place the rough edges of your slabs together. Gently push the edges of the slabs together with your hands to help them fuse. Repeat this process until all of the squares are joined together to make a cube. Join your shapes together. Rough the edges of your individual coils, slabs or pinch pots, by making small cuts (using a knife) along the sides that you will be attaching to other pieces of clay. Gently push the rough edges of different objects into each other to fuse them together. For example, fuse a coil onto the side of a pinch pot to add decoration. Be creative and express your personal style in your creations. If you are using standard clay, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the rough edges before pressing them together. Use textured objects to create patterns in the clay. Clay can be sculpted with just your hands, but using tools can create fun and different patterns. Try scraping the prongs of a fork across the clay, this will create a 3 pronged pattern. Press the bottom of a teaspoon onto the clay surface to create small surface dents. Or use the tip of a knife to carve out patterns, such as noughts and crosses or waves, into the surface of the clay. Experiment and be creative with using different household objects to create patterns. Consider pressing decorations, such as glitter or rocks, into the clay. The moldable surface of clay means you can easily place small objects onto its surface. If you are using kiln or oven bake clay you will need to make sure that the objects can withstand high heat. Small rocks are a safe option for all types of clay. Simply push the small rocks into the clay until they are secure. Glitter is a fun and sparkly option for polymer and air-dry clay. Sprinkle the glitter over the sculpture and lightly push it into the surface of the clay. Paint your sculpture after it has dried. The type of clay you are using will depend on how long it takes to try. Follow the instructions on the packet to dry the clay. Once the clay is completely dry, consider adding details or patterns to the sculpture with paint. If you are painting small patterns, use a small brush. If you are wanting to paint the entire sculpture, use a larger brush. If you are using oven-dry clay, wait for your sculpture to cool before you try to paint it. Be creative with your patterns. Try polka dots, flowers or zig-zags. Cover the table with newspaper before painting. Leave the paint to dry for 24 hours before moving the sculpture. Improve yourself by watching videos or attending a pottery class. If you're enjoying working with clay and want to extend your skills, consider attending a local pottery class. Many schools or community centers offer night classes for all ability levels. There is also an abundance of online videos that can help you improve. Try searching YouTube for "Clay sculpting techniques". | Choose polymer, oven bake, or air dry clay if you don’t have a kiln. Select standard clay if you want to glaze and fire your sculpture. Cover your work surface with newspaper. Wear old clothes. Decide what you would like to sculpt. Knead the clay using your palms. Try the pinch method for an easy first project. Roll lumps of clay to create coils. Stack clay coils to create a vessel. Roll and trim clay into slabs. Join your shapes together. Use textured objects to create patterns in the clay. Consider pressing decorations, such as glitter or rocks, into the clay. Paint your sculpture after it has dried. Improve yourself by watching videos or attending a pottery class. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Understand-Slope-(in-Algebra) | How to Understand Slope (in Algebra) | To understand slope in algebra, think of it as the measure of how steep a straight line is. The slope is equal to rise over run, where the rise is the vertical distance between 2 points and run is the horizontal distance between 2 points. So, if the slope is equal to 3/2, you would need to go up 3 and over 2 on a graph to get to each new point. Then, when you connect each of those points, you would see the slope and how steep it is. | Define slope. The slope is a measure of how steep a straight line is. A variety of branches of mathematics use slope. In geometry, you can use the slope to plot points on a line, including lines that define the shape of a polygon. Statisticians use slope to describe the correlation between two variables. Economists use slope to show and predict rates of change. People also use slope in real, concrete ways. For example, slope is used when constructing roads, stairs, ramps, and roofs. Visualize a line’s “rise over run. ” The term “rise” refers to the vertical distance between two points, or the change in y {\displaystyle y}. The term “run” refers to the horizontal distance between two points, or the change in x {\displaystyle x}. When learning about the slope of a line, you will often see the formula slope = rise run {\displaystyle {\text{slope}}\;={\frac {\text{rise}}{\text{run}}}} For example a slope of a line might be 2 1 {\displaystyle {\frac {2}{1}}}. This means that to go from one point to the next, you need to go up 2 along the y-axis, and over 1 along the x-axis. Locate the slope of a line in an equation. You can do this using the slope-intercept form of a line's equation. The slope-intercept form says that y = m x + b {\displaystyle y=mx+b}. In this formula, m {\displaystyle m} equals the slope of the line. You can rearrange the equation of a line into this formula to find the slope. For example, in the equation y = 3 x + 1 {\displaystyle y=3x+1} , the slope would be 3 {\displaystyle 3}. You can still think of this slope in terms of rise over run if you turn it into a fraction. Any whole number can be turned into a fraction by placing it over 1. So, 3 = 3 1 {\displaystyle 3={\frac {3}{1}}}. This means that the line represented by this equation rises 3 units vertically for every 1 unit it runs horizontally. Assess the steepness of the line. The larger the slope, the steeper the line. A line is steeper the more vertical it rests on a coordinate plane. For example, a slope of 2 (that is, 2 1 {\displaystyle {\frac {2}{1}}} ) is steeper than a slope of 0.5 ( 1 2 {\displaystyle {\frac {1}{2}}} ). Identify a positive slope. A positive slope is one that moves up and to the right. In other words, in a positive slope, as x {\displaystyle x} increases, y {\displaystyle y} also increases. A positive slope is denoted by a positive number. Identify a negative slope. A negative slope is one that moves down and to the right. In other words, in a negative slope, as x {\displaystyle x} increases, y {\displaystyle y} decreases. A negative slope is denoted by a negative number, or a fraction with a negative numerator. To help remember the difference between a positive and negative slope, you can think of yourself as standing on the left endpoint of the line. If you need to walk up the line, it's positive. If you need to walk down the line, it's negative. Knowing the difference between negative and positive slopes can help you check that your calculations are reasonable. Understand the slope of a horizontal line. A horizontal line is a line that runs straight across a coordinate plane. The slope of a horizontal line is 0. This makes sense if you think of lines in terms of slope = rise run {\displaystyle {\text{slope}}\;={\frac {\text{rise}}{\text{run}}}}. For a horizontal line, the rise is 0, since the y {\displaystyle y} value never increases or decreases. So, the slope of a horizontal line would be 0 x {\displaystyle {\frac {0}{x}}}. Understand the slope of a vertical line. The slope of a vertical line is undefined. In terms of rise run {\displaystyle {\frac {\text{rise}}{\text{run}}}} , the slope of a negative line would be y 0 {\displaystyle {\frac {y}{0}}}. The run is 0, since the x {\displaystyle x} value never increases or decreases. So, the slope of a vertical line will be y 0 {\displaystyle {\frac {y}{0}}} , and since you can't divide by 0, any number over 0 will always be undefined. Set up the formula for the slope of a line. The formula is slope = rise run {\displaystyle {\text{slope}}\;={\frac {\text{rise}}{\text{run}}}}. The rise is the vertical distance between two points on a line. The run is the horizontal distance between two points on a line. Locate two points on the line. You can use two given points, or you can select any two points. It doesn't matter how far apart or close together the two points are, but keep in mind that if the points are closer together, there will be less need to simplify the slope later. For example, you might choose the points (4, 4) and (12, 8). Calculate the vertical distance between the points. Start at one point, and count up in a straight line, until you reach the height of the second point. This is the rise of your slope. Your rise will be negative if you start with the higher point and move down to the lower point. For example, beginning at the point (4, 4), you would count up 4 positions to point (12, 8). So, the rise of your slope is 4: slope = 4 run {\displaystyle {\text{slope}}\;={\frac {4}{\text{run}}}}. Calculate the horizontal distance between the points. Start at the same point you started at when calculating the run. Count across in a straight line, until you reach the length of the second point. This is the run of your slope. Your run will be negative if you start with the point on the right and move over to the left. For example, beginning at the point (4, 4), you would count over 8 positions to point (12, 8). So, the run of your slope is 8: slope = 4 8 {\displaystyle {\text{slope}}\;={\frac {4}{8}}}. Simplify if necessary. You would simplify the slope just as you would simplify any fraction. For example, 4 and 8 are both divisible by 4, so the slope 4 8 {\displaystyle {\frac {4}{8}}} simplifies to 1 2 {\displaystyle {\frac {1}{2}}}. Note that it is a positive slope, so the line moves up to the right. Set up the formula for the slope of a line. This formula is for finding the slope given two points on a line: m = y 2 − y 1 x 2 − x 1 {\displaystyle m={\frac {y_{2}-y_{1}}{x_{2}-x_{1}}}} , where m {\displaystyle m} equals the slope of the line, ( x 1 , y 1 ) {\displaystyle (x_{1},y_{1})} equal the coordinates of the starting point on the line, and ( x 2 , y 2 ) {\displaystyle (x_{2},y_{2})} equal the coordinates of the ending point on the line. Plug the x and y coordinates into the formula. To use this method, you need to be given the coordinates, as you will likely not see them plotted on a graph. Don't forget to keep your coordinates in the correct positions. You should be subtracting the coordinates of the starting point from the coordinates of the ending point. For example, if your points are (-4, 7) and (-1, 3), your formula will look like this: m = 3 − 7 − 1 − ( − 4 ) {\displaystyle m={\frac {3-7}{-1-(-4)}}}. Simplify the expression. Subtract the values in the numerator and denominator. Then, simplify the slope, if necessary. You would simplify the slope just as you would simplify any fraction. For example: m = 3 − 7 − 1 − ( − 4 ) {\displaystyle m={\frac {3-7}{-1-(-4)}}} m = − 4 3 {\displaystyle m={\frac {-4}{3}}} So, the slope of the line is − 4 3 {\displaystyle {\frac {-4}{3}}}. Note that since the slope is negative, the line is moving down to the right. | Define slope. Visualize a line’s “rise over run. Locate the slope of a line in an equation. Assess the steepness of the line. Identify a positive slope. Identify a negative slope. Understand the slope of a horizontal line. Understand the slope of a vertical line. Set up the formula for the slope of a line. Locate two points on the line. Calculate the vertical distance between the points. Calculate the horizontal distance between the points. Simplify if necessary. Set up the formula for the slope of a line. Plug the x and y coordinates into the formula. Simplify the expression. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-College | How to Choose a College | To choose a college, start by making a list of potential schools, then research each school's reputation, tuition costs, facilities, and the quality of their degree programs. You can also attend college fairs and tour individual campuses to learn more about the schools you're interested in. Then, narrow your list down to 6-10 colleges and fill out applications for all of them. Once you find out which schools you've been accepted to, you can make your final determination! | Figure out what your priorities are when looking for a school. There are so many different factors to consider when choosing a college. The ones you should focus the most on are the size of the school, the degree programs they offer, cost, distance from home, and the type of area around the school. Have an idea of what you want to study, and start out by looking up schools that are strong in that field. This is an easy first step in your search for colleges. Use an online college finder to explore potential colleges. There are several online college finders that will allow you to enter your preferences (big school vs. small school, urban vs. rural area, public vs. private) and view profiles of schools that match what you want. College Navigator: For U.S. colleges, this college finder is sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics. There are a variety of helpful search options, including distance from home and acceptance rates: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/. BigFuture by The College Board: BigFuture is a comprehensive search engine that allows you to run a very personalized search for colleges by adjusting a variety of filters. You can also adjust the importance of each filter, ranging from “Don't care” to “Must have.” International schools can be included in your search results as well: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search. Cappex: Cappex is limited to U.S. schools, but it has a matchmaking feature that allows you to fill out a profile and be matched with schools based on your preferences. It also allows you to easily see what application materials are required for each school: https://www.cappex.com/. CollegeData: Again, this finder only works for American schools, but it is provides helpful financial breakdowns for each school: https://www.collegedata.com/cs/search/college/college_search_tmpl.jhtml Attend a college fair. College fairs are gatherings of college representatives who are looking to attract students to apply to their institutions. They're usually held at schools, conference centers, or community centers. Ask your high school counselor about any upcoming college fairs near you. These events can be great ways to gain a point of contact at a school you're interested in and get more detailed information about a school. When attending a college fair, it's good to have a list of the schools that you want to talk to beforehand. However, don't be afraid of going up to schools you haven't heard of and learning about them. You might just stumble upon a school that is a great fit for you! Determine which schools you can afford to attend. Look up the average financial aid package for each school that you are interested in. Then, figure out how much financial assistance your family will be able to give you per year. If your family can't afford to cover the cost of attendance, you may need to work during school, apply for outside scholarships, or take out loans. Finances should be a huge part of your college decision. You should do everything you can to avoid ending college with thousands of dollars in debt. The average American college graduate had $37,000 of student loan debt in 2016. View student loans as a last resort. If you live in the U.S. or Canada, you can find your family's expected family contribution using College Board's EFC Calculator: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/paying-your-share/expected-family-contribution-calculator. This will tell you — on average — how much colleges will expect your family to contribute towards your education. Research the reputation of the individual degree programs you are interested in. Look up how long the department has existed and read about the faculty that teach in it to get a good sense of the quality of instruction. Each college has different strengths, and you will want to apply to those that have strong academic departments in your fields of interest. For example, you probably will not want to apply to a polytechnic school if you are interested in the humanities. Research the facilities and available resources at each school. Think about which facilities and resources are most important to you, and find out if the schools you are interested in offer those. Some schools are more equipped to provide support for some students than others. Look up housing and dining accommodations provided by the school. If you are handicapped or have specific dietary needs, take this into special consideration and reach out to the student services office if you have any questions. Search to see if the college has community centers or groups for minority, first generation, low income, or LGBTQ-identifying students. This will help you gauge how much the school welcomes diversity and supports students who are different. Read online about other students' experiences at each school. There are many websites and online forums where current students at a university can post about their experiences, and these can provide helpful insights into student life (i.e. comments on the social scene, access to professors, level of competitiveness in classes) that you wouldn't find on an admissions office website. However, bear in mind that everyone's experience at a university will be unique. Research the presence of Greek life on campus. Try to find out what percentage of the student body is involved in Greek organizations and what values each organization emphasizes. Greek organizations (fraternities and sororities) often have a big effect on the social life of schools. Schools with big Greek organizations tend to have livelier party scenes, but they can also feel a bit exclusionary to students who don't join a fraternity or sorority. Tour potential schools, if possible. If you have the financial ability to go visit schools you're interested in, plan a trip to go see the campuses. Sign up to take an official campus tour to see the main points of interest on the campus and learn about how the school presents itself. Don't be shy about asking your tour guide any questions you might have. If you have time, walk around the campus unaccompanied and try to picture yourself as a student there. Alternatively, if you're a rising high school senior looking to visit schools, many wealthier schools will offer fully-financed “fly-in” programs where they pay to bring high school students that they're interested in to spend time on campus getting to know the school. Do some online research to see if the school you're interested in offers one of these programs — especially if you cannot afford to finance a campus visit yourself. Many college applicants will talk about a “gut feeling” that they feel when they visit the campus of the school that is best for them. Be conscious of this, but still try to keep other factors in mind. Choose a school in a location that will be advantageous to your career path. There will be more opportunities to work and have valuable summer experiences in places that have larger populations and are strong in the industries you are interested in. Many degree programs, like business, technology, or medicine, are significantly enriched by real-world job experiences. Business majors, for example, will benefit from choosing schools in big cities, where they can easily set up internships or familiarize themselves with environments in which they can get jobs after graduation. Medical students will want to be near major hospitals (a variety if possible, to experience different specialties). Computer science and engineering students should seek schools that are close to businesses and companies they would like to work at. Don't let fears about prestige prevent you from applying to schools. You may be feeling a lot of pressure to apply to pretty competitive schools, and it's completely fine if you plan to do so. The general reputation of a school, however, should not be a reason that you apply or do not apply to a school. You are not letting anyone down if you do not attend a top school. Your college experience will be whatever you make it, and you can have fantastic and meaningful experiences at schools that are perceived as “less prestigious” than others. Meet with professors at the colleges you're interested in. Email or call the head of the department that you're interested in. They might connect you with other professors who can tell you more about the program. This will allow you to see if these seem like people you would enjoy learning from and give you insight into the kinds of things you will be studying. You can ask for a course catalog or you may even be able to request to sit in on a class, if the school is nearby or you will be visiting during the correct time of year. Talk to current students about their experiences. If you're visiting a campus, approach current students and politely ask them if they would be willing to talk to you about their experience at the school. You can also look into connecting with current students online. It's best to reach out to someone who has a similar background as you, meaning that they have similar interests, are coming from the same region, or have a similar socioeconomic background. Always be considerate when reaching out to people you don't know. They may not want to talk to you, and that is perfectly okay. Consult with trusted individuals. Talk about your options with friends, family, and high school or college career counselors. Take the word of particular college employees with a grain of salt. The admissions office is their sales office, so do your best to get advice from people in your life who know you well and will be less biased. Your parents can be great resources throughout this process, especially if they have attended college. They are likely among the people who know you the best, so they will be able to help you figure out what you'll need from a college. Ask people who are successful in the fields you're interested in. If you've identified a few career interests, ask either the manager at a place you would aspire to work or someone with a great amount of experience in your chosen field about where they went to school. They should be able to tell you about good schools or programs to get the jobs you want, as well as provide you with general advice for preparing yourself for that career path. Make a list of 6-10 schools to apply to. If you're going through the application process, after doing a lot of research and talking, pick around 6-10 schools to apply to! You can apply to more or less, but make sure you have enough time to devote to each application and enough money to pay for all the application fees. Sometimes, application fee waivers are available for low-income students. Ask your academic counselor if you think you could qualify. Pick at least 2 “reach” schools that you are not sure you'll get into and at least 2 “safety” schools that you are fairly certain you'll be accepted into. Have the rest of the schools be ones that you estimate having a 50/50 shot of getting into. Again, make sure that all of the schools you choose to apply to are ones that you would be happy to attend if you were accepted! Accept an offer of admission and be proud of yourself! In contrast, if you have already gone through the application process and are trying to decide between schools you have been accepted to, say yes to the one you feel fits you the most. Then, take some time to be proud of your accomplishments! It takes a lot of hard work to get accepted into college and you did it. If you've received multiple acceptances, remember to also respond to offers from schools you are declining as well. This frees up spots for other students who are perhaps on a waitlist. | Figure out what your priorities are when looking for a school. Use an online college finder to explore potential colleges. Attend a college fair. Determine which schools you can afford to attend. Research the reputation of the individual degree programs you are interested in. Research the facilities and available resources at each school. Read online about other students' experiences at each school. Research the presence of Greek life on campus. Tour potential schools, if possible. Choose a school in a location that will be advantageous to your career path. Don't let fears about prestige prevent you from applying to schools. Meet with professors at the colleges you're interested in. Talk to current students about their experiences. Consult with trusted individuals. Ask people who are successful in the fields you're interested in. Make a list of 6-10 schools to apply to. Accept an offer of admission and be proud of yourself! |
https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle | How to Heal a Pulled Trapezius Muscle | To heal a pulled trapezius, protect the muscle by avoiding anything that can cause the blood vessels to dilate, like hot baths or massages. Also, avoid activities that may further irritate the muscle in the first 24 to 72 hours it was pulled. You can also immobilize the muscle by applying a neck brace to reduce the risk of further damage. Then, compress your trapezius by applying an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time every 2 hours, 4 to 5 times a day for the first 72 hours. Finally, elevate your muscles by propping pillows under your back while you sleep to promote circulation. | Pay attention to any difficulty you have moving your head or shoulders. The job of the trapezius is to support your head. When you injure your trapezius by pulling it, its going to have a harder time doing its job. Because of this, you might find that you have a hard time moving your head, neck and shoulders like you normally do. Monitor any loss of strength you have in one or both of your arms. Aside from being the workhorse that keeps your head up, your trapezius is also connected to your arms. When your trapezius gets injured, one or both or your arms might become weak, as if there is nothing supporting it (or them). Note any muscles spasms or stiffness that you feel. When the muscle fibers in the trapezius get stretched too far, or get torn, the muscle fibers also contract at the same time and become tight. When this happens, it can create a of block of sorts that doesn't allow enough blood to get to the area. This lack of blood can cause your muscles to spasm (it will feel like your muscle is twitching under your skin) or stiffness (which will feel like your muscles have turned to cement). Watch out for pain in your neck and shoulders. As mentioned above, when the muscle fibers in the trapezius constrict, they let less blood into the area, which also means the area gets less oxygen. Oxygen helps break up lactic acid, so when there is not enough oxygen, the lactic acid builds up and creates pain. The pain can be described as sharp pain, a stinging sensation, or feeling like your muscle has been tied into knots. Pay attention to any tingling sensation you feel in your arms. On top of the muscle spasms and pain caused by insufficient blood flow, not having enough blood in the area also causes a strange tingling sensation that you will most likely feel in your arms. This happens because the muscle fibers in the area are constricted. Keep track of any fatigue you feel. Depending on your pain tolerance, you might feel more or less tired than other people suffering from the same injury. This is because when your body is in pain, your mind goes into overtime trying to find a way to control the pain. This can make you feel really tired and like you have very little energy. Someone with a high pain tolerance might feel a normal amount of energy, but this does not mean that they are any less injured than someone who is extremely fatigued. Know that a pulled trapezius can reduce your ability to concentrate. Like feelings of being super tired, pain can also affect your ability to concentrate. While the pain is not actually making your ability to concentrate any weaker, your mind might be so busy dealing with the pain that you psychologically feel like you can't focus on anything. Even when you try to focus on something, the pain you are experiencing might distract. Its the same thing that happens when someone tells you not to think about an elephant and then all you can think about is an elephant. Look out for any sleeplessness you experience. The pain you feel from the pulled trapezius might keep you up at night. In this instance, its not your brain trying to keep you from thinking about the pain, but the actual pain itself that is keeping you up. You might find that every time you try to roll over you feel a sharp pain in your back or head. Monitor any headache you feel at the back of your head. Trapezius muscles are connected to the neck muscles and to dura matter (a thin tissue that is pain- sensitive and covers the brain). Any damage to the trapezius muscles can cause headaches because the pain can be easily felt by the dura matter and the brain can interpret pain easily. Follow the PRICE therapy technique. This is one of the best ways to get your trapezius on the road to recovery. The PRICE therapy is actually a series of things that you should do. The following steps will go into the details of each part of the therapy.They include: Protect. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/32\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/32\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet1.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Rest. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet2.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Immobilization. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet3.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Compress. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet4.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet4.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-10Bullet4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Elevate. Protect your trapezius. If your trapezius gets hurt more than it already is, it could lead to an even more serious injury, such as a tear. To keep this from happening, you need to protect your pulled muscle. In order to protect your muscle, avoid the following : Heat: Avoid hot baths, heat packs, saunas or any hot environment as heat causes blood vessels to dilate (open up), therefore increasing the risk of bleeding, as more blood will flow to dilated blood vessels. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d2\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d2\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet1.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Further movement: Any excessive movement of the affected area may cause further injury. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet2.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Massage: Pressure to the affected area may contribute to further injury. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet3.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-11Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Give your pulled trapezius plenty of rest. You should avoid any activity that may cause further injury to your pulled muscle for at least 24 to 72 hours. As it is, the pain you feel will probably automatically keep you from doing anything crazy, but a reminder never hurt. Rest helps promote the healing process without causing further damage to your injured muscle. Immobilize your trapezius. As mentioned above, its generally best to give your muscle a rest when it gets injured. Normally a hurt muscle, like a calf muscle, can be wrapped against a splint to keep it immobilize. The trapezius is a bit harder to wrap. In fact, normally you won't wrap your trap, but your doctor might recommend that you wear a soft neck brace to immobilize your neck and keep it from doing further damage to your trap. Compress your trapezius with ice. Put an ice pack or a bag of ice on your neck and shoulders to keep the swelling down and the pain you feel to a minimum. The ice will stimulating the flow of lymph fluid, which carries important nutrients to the damaged tissues surrounding the injury. Lymph fluid also removes waste from cells and body tissues which is an important function during the tissue regeneration process. You should place your ice pack or back of ice on your trapezius for 20 minutes at a time. Wait two hours and then put the ice pack back in place. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e9\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e9\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet1.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} You should repeat this process four to five times each day during the first days (24 to 72 hours) of your muscle injury. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet2.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-14Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Elevate your muscle. Make sure that the affected area is always elevated. In trapezius muscle injuries, you will want to keep your back and shoulders slightly upright when you sleep. Try putting several pillows behind you so that you are propped up at a 30 to 45 degree angle. Doing this promotes good blood circulation to the injured area and speeds up the healing process. Take painkillers. Painkillers work by blocking and interfering with the pain signals going through the brain. If the pain signal does not reach the brain, then pain cannot be interpreted and felt. Pain killers are classified as : Simple Painkillers: These can be bought over-the-counter (OTC) at a pharmacy and includes Paracetamol. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet1.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Stronger Painkillers: These are taken when pain is not relieved by OTC painkillers. These can only be prescribed by a doctor and include codeine and tramadol. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet2.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-16Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Try some NSAIDs. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work by blocking specific body chemicals that cause your pulled muscle to become inflamed. causes the affected area to get inflamed.. However, NSAIDs should not be taken in the first 48 hours of injury as they can delay healing. In the first 48 hours, inflammation is one of the ways your body deals with the injury. Examples are Ibuprofen, Naproxen and Aspirin. Enlist the help of a physical therapist. For help strengthening the upper trapezius muscle and maintaining its optimal function, you may be referred to a physical therapist. Specific exercises aids in preventing upper trapezius pain. The following exercises may be performed with 15 to 20 reps every hour during the day. Scapular Pinches. You will be instructed to move your shoulders back in a circular motion, and then pinch shoulder blades together. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet1.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Shoulder Shrugs. It is done by raising the shoulders up until it reaches the ears and then lower it back. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/34\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/34\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet2.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Neck Rotation. Rotate the head to the right first, and then repeat on the opposite side. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet3.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-18Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Strengthen your trapezius with exercises at home once it has healed. Once your trapezius feels like it has returned to normal, you should begin some gentle exercises to make sure that it does not get injured again. There are several exercises you can do to strengthen your trap. You may want to consult a physical therapist or muscle specialist again before doing this exercises if you are not sure that your muscle is fully healed. Try shoulder touches. Stand straight with your shoulders relaxed. Slowly look forward and then move your head so that your ear moves toward your shoulder. Your ear should be as close to your shoulder as possible without it hurting or feeling like you are straining it too hard. Hold this position for 10 seconds and then do the same thing on the other side of your body. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet1.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Try chest touches. Stand straight with your shoulders relaxed. Slowly tilt your head so that your chin goes towards your chest. Make sure that your shoulders stay down and rested while you do this. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Do this exercise two or three times a day. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/aa\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/aa\/Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet2.jpg\/aid4504967-v4-728px-Heal-a-Pulled-Trapezius-Muscle-Step-19Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Talk to your doctor or physical therapist about surgery if this injury continues to occur. If your have very severely pulled or torn your trap, you may need to get surgery, particularly if it doesn't seem to grow stronger, even when you try to strengthen it with exercises. However, this is only considered when all of the other methods have failed. The surgery repairs and reconnects the damaged trapezius muscle tissue to help it regain its function. | Pay attention to any difficulty you have moving your head or shoulders. Monitor any loss of strength you have in one or both of your arms. Note any muscles spasms or stiffness that you feel. Watch out for pain in your neck and shoulders. Pay attention to any tingling sensation you feel in your arms. Keep track of any fatigue you feel. Know that a pulled trapezius can reduce your ability to concentrate. Look out for any sleeplessness you experience. Monitor any headache you feel at the back of your head. Follow the PRICE therapy technique. Protect Give your pulled trapezius plenty of rest. Immobilize Compress Elevate Take painkillers. Try some NSAIDs. Enlist the help of a physical therapist. Strengthen your trapezius with exercises at home once it has healed. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist about surgery if this injury continues to occur. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Armpit-Hair | How to Remove Armpit Hair | The fastest way to remove armpit hair is to shave your armpits, making sure to shave against the direction of the hair growth with a new sharp razor. Alternatively, you can apply a depilatory cream to your armpits and allow the chemicals in the cream to dissolve the hair. If your armpit hair is between 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, you could also use a waxing kit to remove the hair for longer lasting results than shaving or using depilatory creams. | Wet your armpits with warm water. The process of shaving will go more smoothly if your skin is soft, supple and warm. Either shave in the shower or get your armpits wet with warm water before you begin. If you tend to get ingrown hairs, exfoliate your skin with a body scrub, too. Raise your arm over your head. Raise it high over your head to make sure the armpit skin is nice and taut. This will prevent you from getting cuts or razor burn. Apply some shaving cream or body wash. Cover all of the hair with a product that will help the razor run over your skin smoothly. If you don't use shaving cream or body wash, you could end up getting razor burn, so don't skip this important step. Use a sharp, new razor. Using a dull or rusty razor has more than one drawback. You won't get a close shave, you're more likely to get nicked, and you could even end up with an ingrown hair or an infection. Make sure the razor is in good condition. Shave the hair against the direction of growth. Everyone's hair grows a little differently under the armpit. Yours might all grow in one direction, or it might sprout in many different directions. Make an effort to shave against the direction of growth for a cleaner shave. Carefully shave away the hair, wetting the razor in between strokes if necessary. Rinse your armpit and repeat on the other side. Wash away the excess shaving cream and check your armpit to make sure the hair has been removed. Do a touch-up if necessary, then repeat the process on the other side. Wait an hour or two to apply deodorant. Shaving may leave tiny nicks in your skin, so give them a chance to heal before you apply a product. If you put deodorant on right away, it could sting or cause a rash. Choose a cream meant for sensitive areas. Depilatory cream comes in various strengths. Some is meant for sensitive spots like the face and armpits, while other formulas are designed to take off thick leg hair. Start with the cream for sensitive areas; if it doesn't work well, you can always try the extra-strength stuff later. Using cream that's too strong for your skin can leave you with a rash. When in doubt, pick one that's meant for the face. Wash your armpits first. Rinse away deodorant and sweat so you're applying the cream to freshly washed skin. Pat your armpits dry with a towel. Raise your arm above your head. Make sure the skin is pulled taut. Get into a comfortable position you can hold for a few minutes, since you'll need to hold your arm upright the whole time you're using the cream. Apply the cream over the area with hair. Try not to apply it to the bare skin surrounding your hair. Use only as much as needed to cover the hair. Wait for the recommended amount of time. Keep your arm raised and let the cream go to work. Most creams recommend waiting three to ten minutes to let the chemicals dissolve the hair. Do not leave the cream on your skin longer than the recommended amount of time. The cream may sting a little, but it shouldn't burn or be painful. If you feel pain, wash it off. Rinse your armpit and repeat on the other side. Follow the same process, applying the cream over your hair and allowing it to work for the recommended amount of time. Rinse when you're finished. Wait a few hours before applying deodorant. This gives your skin time to heal after the treatment and reduces the chance that the deodorant will irritate your armpits. Make sure your armpit hair is between 1/4 an 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) long. This is the easiest length to manage when it comes to waxing. If your hair is shorter, the wax won't be able to grip it. If it's longer, it could become tangled and difficult to manage. If necessary, wait a few extra days for it to grow or trim your armpit hair to the correct length. Get your waxing kit ready. Any type of body wax works well for removing armpit hair. Most kits come with a pot of wax that needs to be heated up in a microwave or in a special wax warmer. The kit will also have applicators and cloth strips you use to pull off the hardened wax. Warm your wax according to the manufacturer's instructions. Exfoliate and wash your armpits. Use a body scrub or a loofah to remove dead skin and dirt, then rinse your armpits clean. This will make the waxing process easier and prevent infection from occurring. Dust your armpits with baby powder. The powder dries your armpits and keeps the wax from sticking to your skin when you pull it off. Turning on a fan or opening a window can also help to keep your armpits dry during the process. Raise your arm over your head. Raise it all the way up, so your armpit skin is taut. This will help the hairs come out more easily and keep the process as pain-free as possible. Apply the wax and wax strip. Dip the applicator into the wax and spread a small amount on your armpit hairs in the direction of your hair growth. Place a cloth strip on top of the wax and press down lightly. Pull off the strip against the direction of growth. Do it quickly, like you'd pull off a bandaid. If you go too slowly, the wax won't pull out your armpit hair cleanly. It will also hurt more if you go slowly. If you have trouble pulling it off, your skin may not be taut. Try bending your elbow and using your fingers to hold your skin taut while you use your other hand to pull off the strip. You may also be sweating a bit, causing your armpit to get wet. Try turning on a fan to cool things off. Repeat until the hair is gone. Depending on how much hair you have, it might take two or three wax applications per armpit to get the job done. Finish the first armpit, then move on to the second. You can pull out stray hairs using a tweezers when you're finished. Use almond oil or another lubricant to condition your armpits. This will soothe your armpits and help remove extra bits of wax that are clinging to your skin. Wait a few hours before applying deodorant. If you apply it right away, your skin might feel irritated. Wait at least a few hours before applying any products. Make sure your armpit hair is just a few millimeters long. This is the easiest length to manage when it comes to using an epilator. If it's longer, it could become tangled and difficult to manage in the epilator device. It may help to shave your armpits one to two days before epilating, to make sure your hair is just the right length when you start. Dust your armpits with baby powder. An epilator is a small machine with rotating heads that pull out the hair. Like waxing, the results can last for weeks, but the process can be a little painful. Make sure your armpits are completely dry by dusting them with baby powder. Raise your arm above your head. Raise it high so that your armpit skin is very taut. If your skin is bunched, it could get pinched in the epilator. Turn the epilator to a low setting. Using the lower setting at first will help you get used to the feeling of having your hair pulled. Lightly run it over your armpit to remove a layer of hair. Keep it slightly away from the surface of your skin at first. As the hairs are pulled you'll feel a pinch similar to what you'd feel during waxing. Soon you'll get used to the feeling of having your hair pulled, and you'll be ready to move to the next step. Turn the epilator to a higher setting and apply it closer to your skin. Now you can get all the stray hairs that didn't come out the first time around. Keeping your skin taut, finish the job on the higher setting. Repeat on the other side. Start on the lower setting first, then move to the higher setting. Continue until your armpit is completely hair free. Apply aloe or witch hazel to soothe your skin. Your armpits will feel red and irritated, so soothe them with aloe right when you're finished. Wait several hours to apply deodorant. Applying it right away could sting or cause a rash, so wait at least a few hours. Have a consultation at a salon. If you're interested in electrolysis, it's important to go to a salon with a good reputation. Have an initial consultation so you can learn about the process and lay out a plan. Electrolysis involves destroying individual hair follicles with chemical or heat energy for permanent hair removal. Attend your first hair removal session. The treatment will last fifteen minutes to one hour. Some people find the process painless, while others describe it as uncomfortable. Depending on how much hair you have, you may have to return for further sessions. Tend to your armpits as directed. Your skin will be red and swollen after your session, so you'll want to treat it gently. Apply aloe or another ointment recommended by the salon you visited. | Wet your armpits with warm water. Raise your arm over your head. Apply some shaving cream or body wash. Use a sharp, new razor. Shave the hair against the direction of growth. Rinse your armpit and repeat on the other side. Wait an hour or two to apply deodorant. Choose a cream meant for sensitive areas. Wash your armpits first. Raise your arm above your head. Apply the cream over the area with hair. Wait for the recommended amount of time. Rinse your armpit and repeat on the other side. Wait a few hours before applying deodorant. Make sure your armpit hair is between 1/4 an 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) long. Get your waxing kit ready. Exfoliate and wash your armpits. Dust your armpits with baby powder. Raise your arm over your head. Apply the wax and wax strip. Pull off the strip against the direction of growth. Repeat until the hair is gone. Use almond oil or another lubricant to condition your armpits. Wait a few hours before applying deodorant. Make sure your armpit hair is just a few millimeters long. Dust your armpits with baby powder. Raise your arm above your head. Turn the epilator to a low setting. Lightly run it over your armpit to remove a layer of hair. Turn the epilator to a higher setting and apply it closer to your skin. Repeat on the other side. Apply aloe or witch hazel to soothe your skin. Wait several hours to apply deodorant. Have a consultation at a salon. Attend your first hair removal session. Tend to your armpits as directed. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-Inferencing | How to Teach Inferencing | Teaching your students how to make an inference can be challenging, but you can make it easier by breaking down the concept and using visual aids. Tell your students that making an inference is like taking an educated guess or reading between the lines since it involves careful observations to get logical conclusions. Then, explain that stating the obvious is about what you actually see, but inferences take this idea a step further by interpreting what you see. For example, if you see a picture of a woman in a square hat, the observation is about the shape of the hat, while the inference is that she's graduating high school or college. | Tell students that inferencing is like making an educated guess. Clarify to your students that an inference is not a random guess, but a guess based on observations and a logical conclusion about what is happening. Explain to them that there are many inferences we can draw from images, then show them a few pictures and ask them to make inferences. You can also describe inferencing to students as “reading between the lines.” Students will need to look at facts and evidence they're presented with (in literature or their daily lives) and infer a logical conclusion. Distinguish inferencing from stating the obvious. When students state the obvious, they rely only on their powers of perception. Making an inference requires students to go a step farther. In fact, making an observation and stating the obvious is a step that comes right before making an inference. If students look at a specific image, inferencing requires more than just describing the photo. For example, a student could state the obvious by saying, “That woman in the picture is wearing a square hat on her head.” From this obvious statement, the student could construct a correct inference: “The woman in the picture is graduating from high school or college.” Show students a photo and ask them to infer what’s going on. This works best if the context of the picture is not immediately clear. For example, show students a picture of a person wearing a bathing suit and suspended in midair. Ask them to make observations about the picture. Eventually they'll infer that the person is diving. Remind students that their answers must make sense and be logical to form a good inference. If a student suggests, “He's flying!” remind the student that people can't fly. If a student suggests, “She's skydiving,” point out that the person is not wearing a parachute, and that people don't skydive in swimwear. Distinguish inferencing from making a prediction. Inference and prediction are related but not the same. When students predict, they make an educated guess about what will happen next. When students infer, they make an educated guess about what is currently happening. Explain this to students with the visual aid. When looking at the image of a person diving, a logical student prediction would be, “this person is about to land in the water.” A logical student inference would be, “this person is in the act of taking a dive.” Explain that inferences can be wrong. As you work through this activity, clarify to students that, although inferences can be subjective, it's possible to draw incorrect inferences too. Urge students to make logical connections to avoid incorrect inferences. For example, if a student looked at the picture of the diver and said, “He's performing in a circus,” the student would be making an inference, but an incorrect one. You could say, “His swimsuit could be part of a costume, but I don't see any clowns or acrobats in the picture, so he's probably not part of a circus.” Wear conspicuous clothing and ask students to make inferences. Show up to school one day wearing a New England Patriots jersey. Ask students to guess or infer why you're wearing it. (Answer: because you're a Patriots fan.) Point out that students make these types of inferences about their family, friends, and strangers every day. Or, arrive one day wearing a t-shirt with the logo of a popular band or a charity logo on it. Ask students to infer why you're wearing it. (Answer: you like the band and support the charity cause.) Students can make inferences based on smaller details, too. If you come to class one day with mud on the soles of your shoes, they'll infer that you walked through mud on your way to school. Ask students to make inferences from types of footwear. If your students enjoyed making inferences based on clothing, they'll enjoy this activity as well. Show your students pictures of various types of shoes: construction boots, snow boots, ballerina shoes, sandals, and formal shoes. Ask them to make inferences about each type of shoe: who would wear them? Where would someone go in this type of footwear? Students will infer that heavy work boots would be worn by a construction worker at a job site, formal shoes would be worn by a businessperson, and sandals would be worn at the beach. If a pair of shoes is tattered, students can infer that the shoes are old and worn frequently. Allow students to make inferences about a conversation or interaction. Ask one of the school administrators to come into your room during class and have a whispered (fake) conversation with you. While speaking, make sure that both of you glance up at the fire alarm, and then consult your watches. When the administrator leaves, ask students, “What do you think we were just talking about?” Students will be able to infer that you and the administrator were “discussing” what time a fire drill will occur. Play a game in which students make inferences about one another. Try having each student stand in front of the classroom for 2–3 minutes while their peers infer things about the student. For example, students may say, “She's wearing a sweater, which means she's cold,” or “He's wearing glasses so he must have bad eyesight.” The student being examined can then confirm if their classmates' inferences are correct or incorrect. Reward those students who make the most correct inferences about the classmates. You could give minor prizes like candy. Students might (intentionally or unintentionally) make rude or insulting inferences about one another. To prevent this from happening, make it clear to the class beforehand that students should only make positive or neutral inferences. Show students simple sentences that they can draw inferences from. Before jumping into a longer story or essay, have students infer information from short sentences. Write one of the following sentences on your chalkboard or whiteboard, and ask students to draw their inferences. “We bought tickets, popcorn, and candy.” (Inference: you're going to a movie.) “The students grabbed their raincoats and umbrellas.” (Inference: they're going outside in the rain.) “My alarm went off an hour late this morning.” (Inference: you were late to school or work.) “A student raised their hand in class.” (Inference: the student had a question.) Ask students to write down “clues” that can lead to inferences about a text. If your students are visual learners, you can make a chart out of sheets of construction paper. It could have a column for “clues” (observations students make about a text) and “inferences” (the meaning your students draw from the observation). For example, if you're reading a story to your students and the narrative describes a character who refuses to speak or make eye contact with other characters, your students can infer that the character is shy or unhappy. Ask students to infer the author’s intention behind descriptive passages. Students will often come up with unexpected inferences. Encourage their creativity! Asking the question, “What do you think the author means here?” will encourage students to make observations about the text, and extrapolate inferences. For example, if the author describes the way they felt in a certain situation, pause and ask the class what this information allows them to infer about the author. This strategy will work well if you're reading a book to your class (grades 3-4) or if you've assigned a portion of a book as homework (grades 5-6). | Tell students that inferencing is like making an educated guess. Distinguish inferencing from stating the obvious. Show students a photo and ask them to infer what’s going on. Distinguish inferencing from making a prediction. Explain that inferences can be wrong. Wear conspicuous clothing and ask students to make inferences. Ask students to make inferences from types of footwear. Allow students to make inferences about a conversation or interaction. Play a game in which students make inferences about one another. Show students simple sentences that they can draw inferences from. Ask students to write down “clues” that can lead to inferences about a text. Ask students to infer the author’s intention behind descriptive passages. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Organize-a-Small-Closet | How to Organize a Small Closet | To organize your small closet, start by taking everything out and seeing what you can get rid of. After narrowing your closet down to the essentials, organize your remaining items by grouping them with other similar items. Winter clothes, for example, can be stored in bins under your bed during summer months, while year-round items like jeans can go in the middle of your closet. If you still need more space, look into storage solutions like shoe racks and double hangers. | Take everything out of your closet. In order to get a good idea of just how much space your tiny closet has to offer, you need to remove anything and everything already stuffed inside. Doing so will also make it easier to sort through the items in your closet. Sort through the contents. Sort through all your clothes, shoes, accessories, and anything else you may have been hiding in your closet. Form three separate piles: things you need to keep, things you might need to keep, and things you can get rid of. Lay everything out on the floor or on your bed. This helps you better picture what you have so you can more easily identify what needs to go, as well as how you'll need to organize what's staying. Get rid of clothing that is damaged or clothes that no longer fit you. You should also get rid of clothes you no longer wear, even if they are in good shape. If you are not sure about whether or not you should keep an item, flag the item with a ribbon or marker. When you use the item, remove the flag. If that flag is still there the next time you organize your closet, however, get rid of the item. You can also turn the hanger backwards, then turn it back the right way once you wear it. Donate or discard items you do not need. Letting go of clothing and other items you no longer have a need for will free up more space in your small closet, thereby making the rest of your items easier to organize. Items that are in good shape should be donated, while items that are damaged should be discarded. Temporarily take seasonal items out of your closet. If you have a place for long-term storage, like an attic or trunk, remove most of your seasonal clothes and other seasonal items from your closet once they fall out of season. For example, don't keep your Christmas items in your closet year-round. Instead, store them somewhere else so that you can use that valuable space for other items you'll use right now. If you have a garage, basement, or attic, you can store your seasonal items there. Make sure that your items are kept in plastic boxes with airtight lids to prevent damage from moisture or insects. If you do not have extra storage space outside of your closet, at least consider keeping seasonal items up high or in an area you will not be utilizing for items you need ready access to. Map out your space. Before you begin putting everything back into your closet, measure the space. Taking precise measurements with a measuring tape can make it easier for you to determine how to best fit everything into the area. When picking out storage containers to use in your closet, measure them, as well. Doing so will help you calculate how many you can fit into the small space. It's also a good idea to think about what makes sense for your closet. If it's a small closet, it's unlikely you'll be able to store large items like skis or sports equipment. Similarly, you'll need to take careful measurements when trying to incorporate hanging storage, shoe racks, or similar organizational items, as they may not fit. Add adjustable shelves. Adding shelf space to your closet allows you to stack items more effectively, thereby letting you make use of the vertical space in your closet, as well as the horizontal space. You can use fixed shelves if you so desire, but adjustable shelves offer the added benefit of being easily altered if and when your needs change. If you'd like to store some items that won't fit on shelves, consider adding the shelves just on 1 side, only on the top, or solely on the bottom. Use wicker baskets and small plastic bins or drawers. You can store smaller items in small containers like these and rest them on the shelves in your closest. Doing this makes it easier to access your items as you need them while also getting the most out of the space. If using wicker, opt for a linen or canvas lined basket, especially if storing items made from cloth. The lining should prevent your items from getting snagged or ripped. Clear bins are especially helpful because they allow you to see your items, making it easier to recall what is contained in each bin. If you end up using bins or storage containers that do not have see-through sides, you should label those containers so that you can remember what each one holds. Choose colored bins for added style or as part of your organizational strategy. For example, you could assign each family member a color so they can easily find their items. Put a shoe rack in your closet. If you keep your shoes in your closet, keep them organized with a shoe rack that either sits on the floor or hangs from the closet rod. This will make better use of your space and help you keep your shoes more organized. You can use an actual shoe caddy, or you can buy stackable plastic shoe boxes. No matter what you use, the idea is to organize your shoes into pairs while minimizing the amount of space you use to do this. As with everything else, rotate your shoes according to the season. Bring boots toward the front during winter and sandals toward the front during summer. Install hooks above the door. If you have empty space inside the closet, just above the door, you can install hooks or pegs there and use the area to store suitcases or other hangable items you use infrequently. Place additional storage on the door itself. As long as there is space for it on the inside of the door, you can add hooks or bins to the inside of the door for extra storage space. You can use this space to hang small, flat objects like scarves, hats, or gloves. You can find pocketed hanging panels that hook onto the back of your closet door, which provide lots of extra storage for small items. They're great for items that you use often. Sometimes these are sold as shoe caddies, but they can be used with any small item. "Catch all" baskets also work well when attached to the inside door. You can place small items like handbags or scarves inside these baskets. When all else fails, you can at least add a hook to the back of the door. This hook can be used to store your everyday purse, your pajamas, your robe, or your outfit for the following day. Consider adding more rod space inside the closet. Installing a second rod halfway in between the floor and the original rod in your closet can allow you to make use of any empty space not taken up by a storage bin or other hanging clothes. Mount a pegboard on one wall. A pegboard can be used to hang jewelry, sunglasses, or other accessories. Since these items are all fairly flat, you can store them on one of the side walls in your closet without taking up too much valuable or usable space. Hang bags up. If you do not have much space for bins or other stackable storage containers, you could hang bags up and use those for storage purposes instead. Keep the contents of each bag unique and separate from the other bags. For instance, keep your underwear in one bag, your socks in another, hair accessories in another, and so on. Use waterfall hangers to decrease the bulk. You can hang your shirts, scarves, and bags on waterfall hangers rather than regular hangers. These hangers layer the items downward so that they create less horizontal bulk. However, you'll still be able to see the items and easily access them for wear. You can find waterfall hangers at some home stores and online. Use space bags. Space bags (also known as vacuum bags) allow you to organize clothes for long-term storage while minimizing the amount of empty air space those clothes take up. Place the folded clothes inside the space bag and use a vacuum hose to suck all the air out of the bag, leaving it as flat as possible. Most of these bags work with your own home vacuum cleaner, so there is no need to go out and buy a special machine. Another advantage offered by space bags is that they protect your clothes from mold, mildew, and insect infestations. This option is especially good for seasonal clothing, winter coats, blankets, and pillows. When you remove the items from storage, they should "fluff up" to their original thickness. Replace your old hangers with tiered ones. Tiered hangers are essentially hangers with multiple hanging rods on them. They allow you to store more than one shirt or pair of pants on each hanger. As a result, you can use more empty vertical space in your closet. You can also use these hangers for items like scarves, belts, or bags. For added convenience, use hangers with grips or a cloth lining to prevent your clothing from sliding off. Create DIY tiered hangers, if necessary. You can place soda can tabs over the hanger hook and attach additional hooks through the second slot on the tab. Alternatively, you could also hang a heavy chain from the closet rod and insert the hook of each hanger through a link in the chain. Choose a sorting system. For the sake of easy retrieval, you should organize your clothing by color and type. Organize the rest of the items in your closet by whatever sorting system seems the most reasonable. < Divide your clothes into as many different types as possible. Separate sweaters from sweatshirts, pants from skirts, and casual shirts from dressy shirts. Further divide your organization into color or material. Keep items you use frequently at eye level. Clothes and other items you plan to use most often should be front and center in your closet, while items you have less use for can be placed up high or on the floor. Consider which items you use frequently, then put those items within reach. For example, if you live in a rainy climate, you'd want to keep your umbrella in the front of the closet, not tucked in the back. Rotate these items as necessary. If, for instance, you store both long-sleeve and short-sleeve shirts in your closet, place the short-sleeve shirts up front during the warmer months but hide them away up high during the cooler months, when your long-sleeve shirts should shine. Take a step up. Do not forget about the space you have above your head. Even if you cannot readily access this space, you should grab a stepladder or stool and stack items you do not frequently use in that spot. Hang scarves and ties flat against the wall. If you still have an empty side wall available for use, place a hook on the wall and hang up a tie hanger or other hanging device that can be used to hang ties , scarfs and other fairly flat accessories. You can create your own make-shift scarf or tie hanger by lining shower curtain rings along the bottom bar of a standard clothes hanger. Feed your scarves or ties through these rings, arranging them side by side along the bottom bar of the hanger, and hang the entire thing up on a hook on the side wall. | Take everything out of your closet. Sort through the contents. Temporarily take seasonal items out of your closet. Map out your space. Add adjustable shelves. Use wicker baskets and small plastic bins or drawers. Put a shoe rack in your closet. Install hooks above the door. Place additional storage on the door itself. Consider adding more rod space inside the closet. Mount a pegboard on one wall. Hang bags up. Use waterfall hangers to decrease the bulk. Use space bags. Replace your old hangers with tiered ones. Choose a sorting system. Keep items you use frequently at eye level. Hang scarves and ties flat against the wall. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fold-a-Spring-Roll | How to Fold a Spring Roll | To fold a spring roll, try using the burrito method. First, lay the wrap out flat on a plate. Then, place the fillings near the bottom of the wrap in a line that's approximately ½ to ⅔ inches tall. Fold each side of the wrap over the filling and bring the bottom of the wrap up over the filling. Roll the wrap upward to the opposite edge and then use an egg mixture to hold the wrap together. | Lay the wrap out flat. If you're using a round piece of dough, then you can lay it out any way you like. If you have a square piece, then lay it out like a diamond. Make an egg mixture. Crack a raw egg into a small bowl and whisk it with a fork until it blends completely. This will help create a mixture that holds the roll together. Once you cook the roll, it will be safe to eat. If you're using rice paper or another wrap that you don't plan on cooking, then you can not use the egg mixture to secure the wrap because it will be raw. Dip a pastry brush into the egg mixture and brush the two opposite sides of the wrap (top and bottom). This will help these parts of the wrap stick together when the time comes. Place the filling on the rolls. Place this on the sheet near the bottom and spread it out in a line. This line should be about 1/2 to 2/3 inches tall. Make sure that the line doesn't overflow off the sheet. You want to leave enough room on each side of the wrap that you can comfortably fold the wrap without the contents spilling out. Fold the left and right sides of the wrapper over the mixture. Just fold each side over until they just touch each other, or come close to touching each other, over the filling. Some people like to fold the top and bottom of the wrap first, and then tuck the sides over the top and bottom before they roll them. Fold the bottom of the wrap up over the filling. Be careful to tuck it under the front side of the mixture, the side away from you. Continue to fold the roll. When the line of mixture isn't visible because it is under the sheet, fold the sides near the end of the line. Hold those down while you continue to fold. Make sure that you are folding with your hands in the middle of the line of mixture. Once the folds on the side are covered up on the side, roll the sheet through. Your spring roll is now ready to cook! If the last corner won't fold, spread some egg mixture onto it and stick it to the rest of the roll. This should do the trick. Continue the rolling method for the rest of your spring rolls. You can make as many as you like, or just make one for yourself. Fry them until they're golden brown. Just 2-3 minutes on each side should do the trick. Put a bit of oil on a frying pan and fry the rolls over medium heat. Give them a minute to cool off and they're ready to go. Place your spring roll on a plate in the shape of a diamond. If you use rice paper, which is traditionally used in many spring rolls, then you should read the instructions on how to prepare it. You may have to place it in hot water for fifteen seconds to get it ready. Each of the four corners should be pointing out, so that it is in the shape of a diamond, not a square. Keep in mind that, unlike the first method, you can't use egg paste to help the roll stick together because this roll is already cooked. You don't want to put raw egg on it if you don't plan on cooking it. Put the filling in the lower center of the spring roll, horizontally. Now, scoop in the filling so it lies horizontally from left to right, with at least 2 inches (5 cm) of space between the filling and the left and right corners. This will keep the filling from coming out the sides. It shouldn't be put in too high -- just an inch (2.5 cm) or so at most -- so that you have plenty of space to fold the roll over the filling. Fold the bottom corner over the filling. Now, pick up the bottom corner and fold it over the filling, so the bottom corner is now facing the same direction as the top corner. About an inch (2.5 cm) or so of the corner should be folded above the filling, so that there's still a good 2-3 inches (5 - 7.5 cm) between the bottom corner and the top corner. Consider tucking or rolling the bottom corner over the filling (optional). Some people like to tuck the top corner into the filling, so it disappears into the ingredients. Some like to even roll it over the ingredients one full rotation, to secure them there. Others prefer to go the traditional route and to keep the corner folded up -- it's your call. Fold the left corner into the middle of the roll. Fold the corner over, so it points in the opposite direction, in the middle of the roll. It should begin to resemble an envelope. Fold the right corner into the middle of the roll, to meet the left. Now, just do what you did on the right side of the roll. The left and right corners should just touch. Now, you've almost finished making your envelope. Right now, it should look like an envelope with the filling inside and the flap facing up. Roll the bottom up until you've finished folding the spring roll. Now, just roll from the bottom upwards until you've fully folded the spring roll using the envelope method. Now, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy your delicious treat. | Lay the wrap out flat. Make an egg mixture. Dip a pastry brush into the egg mixture and brush the two opposite sides of the wrap (top and bottom). Place the filling on the rolls. Fold the left and right sides of the wrapper over the mixture. Fold the bottom of the wrap up over the filling. Continue to fold the roll. Once the folds on the side are covered up on the side, roll the sheet through. If the last corner won't fold, spread some egg mixture onto it and stick it to the rest of the roll. Continue the rolling method for the rest of your spring rolls. Fry them until they're golden brown. Place your spring roll on a plate in the shape of a diamond. Put the filling in the lower center of the spring roll, horizontally. Fold the bottom corner over the filling. Consider tucking or rolling the bottom corner over the filling (optional). Fold the left corner into the middle of the roll. Fold the right corner into the middle of the roll, to meet the left. Roll the bottom up until you've finished folding the spring roll. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Plan-a-Pajama-Party | How to Plan a Pajama Party | To plan a fun pajama party for you and your friends, you'll need to come up with games, snacks, and fun activities. Get some popcorn, pretzels, chips, and fruit for you and your friends to munch on. You can also decorate the room with balloons, streamers, and fairy lights. For entertainment, you can play board games, video games, karaoke, or classic sleepover games like truth or dare and charades. Alternatively, make a cozy pillow fort with sofa cushions and blankets. If you get bored with those, take some selfies with silly objects around the house or make funny faces. You can also watch some movies or TV together. | Make a guest list. Include all the people you wish to invite to your party. The number of people you invite will depend on the size of the room and on how many guests you can have over. Since a pajama party can range in size from a few close friends to a larger number of people that you know, it's important to have an idea of how many people you actually want and can have at the party before sending out invitations. Write the invitations. You can buy pre-made pajama party invitations at retailers like Zazzle or you can make your own. You can also create a Facebook event for the party. The invitation should include the following information: Date of the party. Consider hosting the party on a Friday or Saturday night. That way, you and your friends will be able to recover and catch up on sleep the next day. Time the party will start and end. Sleepover pajama parties usually start no earlier than 5 p.m. and go until 10 a.m. If your pajama party is not actually a sleepover and is instead just a party in your PJs, specify this and give an idea of when the party will end so guests can plan accordingly. The address for the event. A date guests should RSVP by. Your phone number and/or email. What to bring. This could range from a swimsuit to a sleeping bag to pillows. The theme of the party, if any. Send timely invitations. If you invite people too close to the day of the party, you run the risk of there being overlapping events or conflicts. Avoid this by letting your friends know about the party at least 2 weeks ahead of time. Set the location. Traditional slumber parties take place indoors, usually in the living room or the bedroom of the hostess. However, if you want to take your party to the next level, consider hosting an outdoors pajama party using the backyard as the party area. You can also set up tents as your shelter. Pick out games to play. From video games to board games to pajama party classics like truth or dare, the possibilities are endless. Set aside a few games that you know most of your friends like playing. During the party, let your friends vote on which ones they would like to play. Make a list of activities. A pajama party can be a great time if you and your friends just talk the night away. However, having a few activities planned out can make the night even more fun. You and your guests could: Make homemade spa treatments. These can range from applying face masks - cucumbers for the eyes are a must - to doing mani/pedis or makeovers. Snap before and after pictures. Set up a selfie wall. Hang fabric on a wall and print out signs that you can use as props for an amazing photobooth-like experience. Create a dance routine. Look up YouTube videos for choreography inspiration or try to mimic your favorite artist's moves. Record yourselves for a fun memory to look back on. Do karaoke. If you have a karaoke machine, this would be the perfect time to use it. If you don't have one, look up song instrumentals on YouTube to sing along with or simply sing loudly over the track. You can use hairbrushes or water bottles as your microphones. Make a pillow fort. If you have big couch cushions, you can use these as 'walls.' Thin sheets or blankets make the perfect roof. Pick out a few movies. During the party, let your friends choose which one(s) to watch. Go for movies that aren't scary so that all your guests can have a good time. Buy snacks. The perfect snacks for pajama parties are fun finger-foods. Your best bets are popcorn, pretzels, and chips, plus some fruit for good measure. These snacks are delicious and easy to clean up. If you can, purchase a variety of snacks so that your friends have a variety of options to choose from. Don't forget to buy disposable cups, napkins, and plates. Only buy caffeinated drinks or sodas if you plan on you or your friends being awake all night. Ask your friends to let you know if they're allergic to any food so that you can avoid serving it. Decorate the room. Balloons and streamers are great decorations regardless of the theme of the pajama party. Dim or turn off the main lights and add fairy lights instead to create a cozier atmosphere. Pick a theme for the party and decorate accordingly. For example, if you're having a rockstar-themed pajama party, you could have decorations like CDs or cutouts of music notes taped to the walls. You might even lay down a red carpet for your friends to pose on. If your pajama party is outdoors, count on setting up tents and having flashlights ready. Prepare party favors. This only applies if your pajama party doubles as a birthday party. Party favors could vary from store-bought trinkets, like mini-notebooks or key chains, to something you make with your guests at the party, like friendship bracelets or tye-dye shirts. If you plan to create party favors during the event, make sure to gather all the necessary items beforehand. For example, if you're making keepsake collages, set aside glue, paper, scissors, and magazines the day before the party. You might also provide toothbrushes and toothpaste for your guests - these often go forgotten at pajama parties, but they are a thoughtful detail. Clean up. Ask your friends to help you put away things - from games to food - in the morning so that cleaning up seems less like a chore. You can even make a game out of it - whoever can put away the most items gets a prize! | Make a guest list. Write the invitations. Send timely invitations. Set the location. Pick out games to play. Make a list of activities. Pick out a few movies. Buy snacks. Decorate the room. Prepare party favors. Clean up. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Register-an-Out-of-State-Car-in-California | How to Register an Out of State Car in California | To register your out-of-state car in California, start by locating your current title or registration and bill of sale to prove that you own your car. Next, drive the car to your nearest smog station to make sure it passes California's emission regulations. If you don't know where your nearest smog station is, you can locate it at smogcheck.ca.gov. Once you've done that, drive to your local DMV office in California. Remember to bring all of your paperwork with you, including your driver's license and proof of insurance. After that, get an application form for title or registration at the DMV and fill in the details. When you've finished the paperwork, pay the required fees. Then, turn over your out-of-state license plates if required, and switch them for your new California plates. | Check the car's emissions label. You car will have an emissions label under the hood. If it's certified in California, it will include a statement that it conforms to California state regulations. If it doesn't include that statement, you may not be able to register the car in California. If you're a California resident and you're looking at buying a car out of state, you might want to check this before you buy the car. If you're unable to register your car in California, you may not be able to get your money back. You don't need to worry about California's emissions laws if your car was built before 1976. Evaluate exemptions if your car isn't California certified. If your car doesn't conform to California state regulations, it's considered a "49-state car." California law provides a few exemptions that will allow you to register a 49-state car. You will need to show the DMV proof that your car falls into one of these exemptions. If you got the car as part of a divorce, inheritance, or legal settlement, you'll be able to register the car. If your California-registered vehicle was stolen or wrecked out of state, and you bought a 49-state car to replace it, you can register it. California also grants exemptions for emergency vehicles, or a car you purchased while you were stationed on active military duty. Cars built before 1976 also are subject to an exemption. Get the last issued out-of-state title or registration. To prove that you own the vehicle, you must present the title or registration from the state the car came from. You'll need to get the title unless the car is financed. Visit the California DMV website at www.dmv.ca.gov to find a list of out-of-state DMV offices where you can request a copy of the title or registration. If the out-of-state title has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, you typically will need to request a duplicate from the state that issued the title before you can register your car and get a California title. Complete the odometer disclosure. Your title will have an odometer disclosure section that must be completed by the seller and acknowledged by you as the buyer of the car. This disclosure isn't mandatory if the car is more than 10 years old, or is a brand new car. If you're planning on registering and using the car as a commercial vehicle, you also typically won't need to complete the odometer disclosure. If you don't have the title (such as if your car is financed and the lien holder has the title), you must fill out a REG 262 form. You can't download this form online because it is printed on security paper. Call the California DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to have a form mailed to you. Make a copy of your bill of sale. If you recently purchased the car from out of state and are registering it in California as a new owner, you will need to present a copy of the bill of sale to establish the chain of ownership. If you didn't get a document specifically titled "Bill of Sale," a finance agreement or other purchase agreement will suffice. Calculate your registration fees. The California DMV has a fee calculator available online that you can use to determine how much you'll have to pay to register your out-of-state car. Go to https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/portal/feecalculatorweb/index and click on the "nonresident vehicles" link. You will have to provide information about the type of vehicle and model year. You'll also enter the date you purchased the vehicle and the date you first drove it in California. If you paid any use or sales tax in the other state, enter this information as well. You'll get a credit for it towards your California taxes. Certify your car at a California smog station. Most cars must have a smog certification before they can be registered in California. The only cars that don't require smog certification are diesel-powered cars of model year 1998 or newer. To find the smog station nearest you, visit https://www.smogcheck.ca.gov and click the "Find a Station" button. Smog check prices aren't regulated, so you may want to shop around at several stations to find the best price. Verify the car's weight if you're registering the car as a commercial vehicle. If your out-of-state car is for personal use, you won't need a weighmaster's certificate. However, you will need one if you plan to register the car as a commercial vehicle and use it for business purposes. You can find public scales by visiting the website of the California Department of Food and Agriculture at https://apps1.cdfa.ca.gov/publicscales/. Visit your local California DMV office. When you're ready to register your out-of-state car in California for the first time, you'll have to drive the car to the nearest DMV field office and submit an application along with all the required documents. To find a field office near you, visit the DMV's website at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/dmv/offices. To shorten your wait time, you can make an appointment online or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Field offices are not open on weekends or holidays. Complete the application for title or registration. The application for title or registration asks for information about you and the car you want to register in California. You also must provide information about the purchase of the car. You can download the application from the California DMV's website and fill it out ahead of time. You can also get a copy of the application at the DMV and fill it out while you wait. Have your car verified at the DMV. You must take your out-of-state car to your local DMV to verify the car's vehicle identification number (VIN). This must be done by an authorized DMV employee, who will also conduct a visual inspection of the car. The California DMV recommends that you make an appointment so you don't have to wait as long. If you take all of your required paperwork, you can register your car at the same time you get the verification. Submit your application along with certifications and proof of ownership. When you've finished filling out your application, you'll need to give it to the DMV clerk along with the title or registration from the other state, your bill of sale, smog certification, and any other required documents. The clerk will verify your documents and give your originals back to you. Show your driver's license and proof of insurance. Before the DMV will process your registration, you must prove that you have car insurance that meets the state minimum requirements. For private passenger vehicles, you must have at least $15,000 coverage for the injury or death of one person, $30,000 coverage for the injury or death of more than one person, and $5,000 coverage for damage to property. Pay the required fees. Once the clerk has processed your application, they'll calculate the amount of fees you owe to register the car. If you've already calculated your fees online, you'll have an idea of how much this is going to be. However, if your calculation differs from the clerk's calculation, the clerk's calculation is the one that you'll have to pay. DMV field offices accept cash, personal checks, and credit or debit cards. A portion of these fees may be tax deductible. Contact a California tax advisor or consultant for more information. Turn over your out-of-state license plates if required. In most cases, you'll have to give the out-of-state license plates to the DMV to get your new California plates. There are exemptions, such as if the plates are expired. If the other state requires you to send the plates back to them, it's your responsibility to turn the plates back in – the California DMV won't do this for you. Put your new plates on your car. Once your registration is complete, the clerk will issue your registration certificate and give you new plates to put on your car. If you ordered specialty or custom plates, you'll get a temporary plate to use until you get your plates in the mail. | Check the car's emissions label. Evaluate exemptions if your car isn't California certified. Get the last issued out-of-state title or registration. Complete the odometer disclosure. Make a copy of your bill of sale. Calculate your registration fees. Certify your car at a California smog station. Verify the car's weight if you're registering the car as a commercial vehicle. Visit your local California DMV office. Complete the application for title or registration. Have your car verified at the DMV. Submit your application along with certifications and proof of ownership. Show your driver's license and proof of insurance. Pay the required fees. Turn over your out-of-state license plates if required. Put your new plates on your car. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Foot-Odor | How to Get Rid of Foot Odor | An easy way to get rid of foot odor is to exfoliate your feet with a washcloth and antibacterial soap every time you shower. When you're finished, dry your feet completely and, if you have no cracked skin, rub hand sanitizer on them to kill any leftover germs and bacteria. Wear open-toed shoes if you can. If your shoes are smelly, sprinkle baking soda into them to help absorb moisture and odor throughout the day. If you're a diabetic or have poor circulation, you should speak to your healthcare provider before trying these remedies. | Scrub your feet. It sounds obvious, but a quick rub with soapy water in the shower isn't enough. The objective here is to get rid of any bacteria and dead skin cells that bacteria like to feed on. So when you wash your feet, exfoliate the entire surface of your foot with a washcloth, brush, or any other mechanism and use antibacterial soap. Don't forget to scrub between your toes, too! Dry your feet. When you dry your feet, dry them completely. Moisture, whether it's water or sweat, is what creates a fertile breeding ground for bacteria, Take the time to dry your feet thoroughly and don't neglect the space between your toes. Use hand sanitizer. It may sound weird, but a good hand sanitizer can kill germs on your feet and inhibit bacterial growth. Since bacteria cause odor, this can reduce or eliminate your foot odor. If you have open sores or cracked feet, you should not use hand sanitizer, as it will dry out the skin even more. Use antiperspirant. The same type of antiperspirant you apply under your arms could also be used for your feet. Just make sure to get a separate stick for each area. Apply it to clean, dry feet at night, then put your socks and shoes on as usual in the morning. It will help keep your feet dry and fresh during the day. Antiperspirant actually reacts with the electrolytes in sweat to form "gel plugs" that block off your sweat ducts. Since each one of your feet has over 250,000 sweat glands (more sweat glands per inch than any other part of your body) a little antiperspirant can go a long way. Don't apply it right before going out, or you'll be slipping and sliding in your shoes. Soak your feet in a mixture of 1 part regular vinegar and 2 parts water. Vinegar kills fungus that could cause foot odor. Pour the water into a big bowl or bucket, and then add the vinegar. Soak your feet for 20-30 minutes. You can add a few scoops of baking soda and thyme oil drops to your foot bath, both of which may also help get rid of stinky smells. Rub your feet with one or more of the following powders. Do this between your toes as well. This is what most foot powders and sprays contain to combat foot odor: Talc-free powder. It will absorb moisture and prevent friction. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/61892-8-bullet-1.jpg\/v4-460px-61892-8-bullet-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/61892-8-bullet-1.jpg\/aid61892-v4-728px-61892-8-bullet-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":308,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"487","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>Image by: Uploader<br>\nLicense: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Baking soda. This creates an alkaline environment that's not bacteria-friendly. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/61892-8-bullet-2.jpg\/v4-460px-61892-8-bullet-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/61892-8-bullet-2.jpg\/aid61892-v4-728px-61892-8-bullet-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":296,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"469","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>Image by: Uploader<br>\nLicense: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Corn starch. This helps absorb sweat. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/61892-8-bullet-3.jpg\/v4-460px-61892-8-bullet-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/61892-8-bullet-3.jpg\/aid61892-v4-728px-61892-8-bullet-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":308,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"487","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>Image by: Uploader<br>\nLicense: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Wear sandals or open-toed shoes. Wearing open shoes lets the air flow around your feet, keeping them cool and keeping you from producing as much sweat. When you do sweat, it will evaporate quickly due to air circulation. During colder months, wear leather or canvas shoes that allow your feet to "breathe." Steer clear of rubber and plastic shoes. Change your socks daily. Socks absorb your sweat when you wear them, and it dries when you take them off. Putting on a dirty pair of socks for the second day in a row is essentially going to reheat that sweat, leading to a foul smell. Change your socks every day, especially if your feet tend to get sweaty. Unless you're wearing open shoes; you should always wear socks. If your feet get very sweaty, carry an extra pair of socks with you so that you can change your socks during the day. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/61892-10-bullet-2.jpg\/v4-460px-61892-10-bullet-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/61892-10-bullet-2.jpg\/aid61892-v4-728px-61892-10-bullet-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":308,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"487","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>Image by: Uploader<br>\nLicense: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a>\n<\/p><\/div>"} When you wash your socks, turn them inside out in the washer, so the dead flakes of skin have a better chance of being washed away. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/61892-10-bullet-1.jpg\/v4-460px-61892-10-bullet-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/61892-10-bullet-1.jpg\/aid61892-v4-728px-61892-10-bullet-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":308,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"487","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>Image by: Uploader<br>\nLicense: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Go for absorbent socks made of cotton or wool. Non-absorbent socks (like nylon) trap moisture around your foot, making a cozy little nook for bacteria. Lightly powder shoes and socks daily with baking soda. Dust out yesterday's baking soda before adding the fresh amount. Baking soda absorbs moisture and odors. If you feet start to feel dry or irritated, go a few days without using baking soda. You may need to take periodic breaks from it. Use cedar wood or cloves to freshen shoes. Put cedar wood shavings or whole cloves inside your shoes for a few days when you don't need to wear them. Over time, the odor may diminish or disappear. Use cedar wood insoles. In addition to cedar wood shavings you can also use cedar wood insoles while you aren't wearing the shoes. The natural cedarwood essential oils have antibacterial properties, which fight bacteria and help to cure and prevent foot odor. They also have antifungal properties, which help prevent athlete's foot and nail fungus. It is also a convenient way without the need for daily routines like powdering or creaming. Rotate your shoes. Let your shoes dry out completely so that bacteria don't set up camp in there. It takes at least 24 hours for a shoe to dry out completely. Take out the insoles to help the drying process along. Otherwise, wearing the same pair day after day is a recipe for stinky feet. Crumple newspaper inside wet shoes so it will help dry them overnight. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/61892-12-bullet-1.jpg\/v4-460px-61892-12-bullet-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/61892-12-bullet-1.jpg\/aid61892-v4-728px-61892-12-bullet-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":308,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"487","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>Image by: Uploader<br>\nLicense: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Wash your shoes regularly. Many shoes can be thrown in the washing machine. Just make sure they dry thoroughly before you put them on. Remove your shoes often. Whenever you can take a break, and no one is looking, remove your shoes. This helps the shoes and your feet stay drier. Use a shoe dryer. There are several great, low-wattage shoe and boot dryers that use convection air currents to slowly and completely dry wet, sweaty shoes. Place your footwear on them at the end of the day or workout and put on dry, warm and comfortable shoes about eight hours later. Dryers eliminate the moisture that odor-causing bacteria need to grow and help your shoes to last longer. Do a tea soak. Brew a strong black tea and pour it into a large bucket or bowl. Soak your feet in the tea for 30 minutes a day for 1 week. The tannic acid in the tea may act as a barrier that protects skin. Use salt water. Apply.5 cups (120 mL) of kosher salt, Epsom salt , or sea salt for every quart of water. After soaking, don't rinse your feet and just dry thoroughly. Apply aluminum acetate. This will dry out your feet. Mix 1 packet Domeboro powder or 2 tablespoons Burow's Solution (both available over-the-counter) in 1 pint of water. Soak for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before using aluminum acetate if you are pregnant or nursing. Make sure that you follow all instructions on the packaging. This product may cause dryness, itching, temporary burning or stinging, or skin inflammation. If you experience these side effects, stop using the aluminum acetate. Make a baking soda mixture. Apply one tablespoon baking soda for every quart of water. This is a drying mixture that can reduce moisture on your feet. Baking soda makes skin more alkaline, which can alter the pH of your skin. This can cause irritation and can reduce the acidity of your skin. The skin's acidity helps control unwanted bacteria and fungal growth, so long-term use of baking soda may not be the best remedy. Clean your feet with a pumice stone on a daily basis. While you're in the bath or shower, rub your feet with the pumice stone while it's still wet. This will remove the dead skin and prevent excessive growth of bacteria. Wash and dry off your pumice stone after you use it. | Scrub your feet. Dry your feet. Use hand sanitizer. Use antiperspirant. Soak your feet in a mixture of 1 part regular vinegar and 2 parts water. Rub your feet with one or more of the following powders. Wear sandals or open-toed shoes. Change your socks daily. Lightly powder shoes and socks daily with baking soda. Use cedar wood or cloves to freshen shoes. Use cedar wood insoles. Rotate your shoes. Wash your shoes regularly. Remove your shoes often. Use a shoe dryer. Do a tea soak. Use salt water. Apply aluminum acetate. Make a baking soda mixture. Clean your feet with a pumice stone on a daily basis. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-a-Name-from-a-Mortgage-Without-Refinancing | How to Remove a Name from a Mortgage Without Refinancing | Although it can be difficult to remove a name from a mortgage without refinancing, it's best to start by contacting your lender to explain your situation. Depending on the circumstances, your lender may ask for information such as your financial records and a divorce decree, if you're removing an ex-spouse's name. If your lender approves your request, you'll need to sign the new mortgage contract and a new deed, and have the original co-borrower sign documents to have their name removed. | Contact your lender. Removing a name from a joint mortgage is not a typical request, so it is best that you contact your lender in person or by telephone rather than by email. Since your lender holds the mortgage to the home, the lender wants to be able to hold both borrowers responsible if payments are not made. Therefore, a lender may be reluctant to remove one borrower's name from the loan. While this process, commonly referred to as an assumption or a novation, is not common, some lenders do allow it with respect to certain types of mortgage loans. For instance, FHA and VA loans commonly have provisions that allow assumptions. Provide your lender with your personal financial information. This financial documentation must show that you have the ability to be responsible for the mortgage loan. For instance, you should provide your lender with your recent income tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements. You have to prove to the bank that you have the money to make the mortgage payments every month on your own. Use your credit report. Your credit report is a good source of proof of your ability to make the mortgage payments. Your lender always considers a person's credit history in evaluating his or her eligibility for a loan. Credit history also can affect other factors about your mortgage loan, such as the interest rate. This information will help the bank decide if you are eligible for a mortgage loan on your own. Provide your lender with your divorce decree, if applicable. People often want to remove the name of an ex-spouse from a joint mortgage loan, pursuant to their divorce decree. If this is the case, some lenders will require proof of a properly executed divorce decree in order to process the assumption. Ensure that your mortgage loan qualifies for an assumption. While assumptions used to be more widespread, they are now are commonly limited to certain types of mortgage loans, including FHA loans, USDA loans, VA loans, and adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) loans that are still in their adjustable period. If your loan does not qualify for an assumption due to the nature of the loan, or there is no provision for assumption in the mortgage contract, you may not be eligible to remove a co-borrower's name from this process. If your mortgage contract does not permit an assumption, there is nothing that you can do to change it. You signed the contract and are bound by its terms. Sign a mortgage novation or assumption with your lender. A novation or assumption simply substitutes one mortgage contract for another. The new contract removes the co-borrower from the mortgage loan altogether. You will sign the new mortgage contract. The co-borrower also normally must sign the appropriate documents in order to remove his or her name from the loan. Sign a new deed. Once you have signed the new mortgage contract, there is another important step to take. You need to legally remove the co-borrower's name from the deed to the property. By executing a quitclaim deed, you and the co-borrower can transfer the property to you alone. You may wish to contact an attorney so that your deed contains all of the required information. Depending on your state's laws, you may need to take the new deed to various government offices for recording. Recruit a co-signer for your mortgage loan. If you don't qualify for a mortgage loan on your own, you could find another person who qualifies for the loan and who is willing to co-sign it. Taking this step might convince the lender to allow you to take on the mortgage loan without your current co-borrower. Your co-signer should have a strong credit history and sufficient income to qualify for the loan. Contact your lender. If the lender agrees to it, this method will get the current co-borrower off the hook and allow you to take out another joint mortgage loan, except with a different person. It is important to remember, however, that circumstances may always change in the future. If you later want to remove the new co-signer from the joint mortgage loan, you will end up in the same situation that you are now. Likewise, if you fail to make the mortgage payments as agreed, your co-signer will be held responsible for the payments. Sign new mortgage documents with your new co-signer. If your lender is agreeable, you can enter into a new mortgage contract along with your co-signer. This will absolve your current co- borrower from responsibility for the new mortgage loan, but will make your co-signer equally responsible for the loan. Sign a new deed. You and your former co-borrower will need to sign a new deed that transfers interest in the property to you and your new co-signer. The deed may need to be recorded at various government offices, depending on the laws of your state. Evaluate your financial situation. While this may be somewhat of an extreme option, filing for bankruptcy and receiving a bankruptcy discharge under Chapter 7 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code can remove your name from a mortgage loan. This may be a helpful option, for instance, if you have a lot of debt and are struggling financially. If all other alternatives fail and you are otherwise eligible for bankruptcy, you should be able to discharge your liability for the mortgage loan that you hold jointly with another person. Contact a bankruptcy attorney. An attorney who primarily handles bankruptcy cases will best be able to assess your financial situation. He or she can determine whether you are entitled to relief through the bankruptcy process. He or she also can advise you whether bankruptcy is likely to relieve you of the joint mortgage debt. This way, you can decide if bankruptcy is the best option for you. File for bankruptcy if appropriate. A bankruptcy attorney can help you with the necessary paperwork and documents. You will need to include the joint mortgage loan in your bankruptcy filing. Assuming that your bankruptcy proceedings go smoothly, you may be able to discharge your financial responsibility for the mortgage loan. This will leave your co-borrower with sole liability for the loan. Execute a quitclaim deed regarding the property. If you are able to discharge the mortgage loan in bankruptcy proceedings, you should sign a quitclaim deed to transfer your interest in the property to your co-borrower. This allows your co-borrower to sell, refinance, or otherwise dispose of the property as he or she sees fit. Understand that your co-borrower will still own the property. Your bankruptcy discharge does not affect his or her legal or financial responsibility for the property. If you are worried about your co-borrower's ability to assume total responsibility for the property, you should discuss the potential consequences of this option before filing for bankruptcy. Contact a realtor about selling the property. If neither you nor your co-borrower are interested in living in or otherwise utilizing the property, you may consider selling the property. Selling the property would solve the problem altogether. If you wish to remain living on the property, however, then selling it is clearly not an option. Determine the current value of the property. Your realtor can research the values of properties that are comparable to your property. These property values, as well as current market conditions, can give you a fairly good idea as to the value of the property. You also can pay to have an appraisal done on the property. However, appraisals can be expensive and are likely to give you roughly the same information as the realtor's analysis. Compare the estimated property value to your mortgage debt. If the estimated value of your property is equal to or more than the balance on your mortgage loan, you could sell it and pay off the mortgage loan. However, if you owe more than the property is worth, then you will not be able to pay off the mortgage loan. The only exception is if the mortgage lender agrees to a short sale, or a sale of the property for an amount that is less than what is owed on the mortgage loan. Place the property for sale. If you receive an offer on the property that is fair and will pay the mortgage loan in full, your problem is solved. Both you and your co-borrower will execute a deed within the course of the sale that transfers all ownership of the property to the buyer. The mortgage loan will be paid off. If you receive an offer that is less than the amount of the mortgage loan, however, you will need to contact your lender to see if they will agree to a short sale. | Contact your lender. Provide your lender with your personal financial information. Use your credit report. Provide your lender with your divorce decree, if applicable. Ensure that your mortgage loan qualifies for an assumption. Sign a mortgage novation or assumption with your lender. Sign a new deed. Recruit a co-signer for your mortgage loan. Contact your lender. Sign new mortgage documents with your new co-signer. Sign a new deed. Evaluate your financial situation. Contact a bankruptcy attorney. File for bankruptcy if appropriate. Execute a quitclaim deed regarding the property. Understand that your co-borrower will still own the property. Contact a realtor about selling the property. Determine the current value of the property. Compare the estimated property value to your mortgage debt. Place the property for sale. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Area-of-a-Square | How to Find the Area of a Square | To find the area of a square, use the formula a = side^2, where side is the length of one of the sides of the square. If you only know the perimeter of the square, you can find the area by dividing the perimeter by 4, which will give you the length of each side, and then plugging the side into the formula a = side^2. | Write it down. Let's say you're working with a square with a side length of 3 centimeter (1.2 in). Write it down. Understand the formula for the area of a square(Area=side^2). Since all squares have equal length sides, you can just multiply the distance by itself. If the length of a side of a square is 3 centimeter (1.2 in), then you just have to square 3 centimeter (1.2 in) to find the area of a square. 3 centimeter (1.2 in) x 3 centimeter (1.2 in) = 9 cm. Be sure to state your answer in square units. Then you're done. Squaring the side of a square is the same thing as multiplying the square's height times its base. Take the measurement of the length of the diagonal of the square. Understand the formula for the area using a known diagonal. Area = (diagonal^2)/2. Multiply the length of this diagonal's measurement by itself. Square the length of the diagonal. Let's say you're working with a square with a diagonal that is 5 centimeter (2.0 in) long. Now, square this number. 5 centimeter (2.0 in) x 5 centimeter (2.0 in) = 25 cm. Divide the current number by 2. Continuing the calculation, 25 cm is divided by 2. This gives 12.5 cm. You're done. Multiply the perimeter by 1/4 to find the length of a side. This is the same as dividing the perimeter by 4. Since there are four sides to a square and each side is of equal length, you can find the length of a square just by dividing the perimeter by 4. Let's say the perimeter of the square you're working with is 20 centimeter (7.9 in). Just multiply 20 centimeter (7.9 in) by 1/4: 20 centimeter (7.9 in) x 1/4 = 5 centimeter (2.0 in). You know that the length of a side of the square is 5 centimeter (2.0 in). Multiply the length of the side by itself. Square the length of the side. Now that you know that the length of a side is 5 centimeter (2.0 in), you can square it to get the area of the square. Area = (5 cm) = 25 centimeter (9.8 in). | Write it down. Understand the formula for the area of a square(Area=side^2). Be sure to state your answer in square units. Take the measurement of the length of the diagonal of the square. Understand the formula for the area using a known diagonal. Multiply the length of this diagonal's measurement by itself. Divide the current number by 2. Multiply the perimeter by 1/4 to find the length of a side. Multiply the length of the side by itself. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Throw-a-Pool-Party | How to Throw a Pool Party | To throw a pool party, plan on playing fun pool games, like Marco Polo, sharks and minnows, pool volleyball, and water balloons. Also, get some refreshing snacks to serve your guests, like fresh fruit, chips and salsa, and bite-sized sandwiches. You can also have a cookout and make food on the grill, or you can set up a cooler outside that's stocked with ice cream and popsicles. Make sure you have extra towels and sunscreen on hand, as well as some fun pool noodles and rafts for your guests to use. | Choose a date. The main factor in deciding when to hold your pool party will be the weather, unless you plan on having your party at a climate-controlled indoor pool. Choose a day with little to no chance of rain and high temperatures. However, if possible, avoid the hottest days of summer. Extreme temperature increase your risk of heat exhaustion. Plan your party on a weekend. This will allow for those that work during the week to be able to attend the party, and you can host the party during the day. If you'd rather have an evening pool party when it's not as hot outside, any day of the week could work. If you live in an area where rain is frequent, consider setting an alternate “rain date” for your party. This way, guests will know what to expect if it rains on the party day, and you can still have your party later. Find a pool for your party. If you have a pool at your house, you can host your party at home. Otherwise, you'll want to look into local neighborhood pools and exercise facilities. Inquire about parties well in advance of when you'd like to have your party. Different pools require reservations and party fees. Depending on the facility, you may be able to rent the entire pool or just host your party during normal pool hours. Send out invitations. You can either send your invitations electronically or as paper invitations. Make sure to send them out at least a week in advance. Use cute water-themed phrases in your invitations. Say something like: “Dive in for a night of fun with us at our summer pool party!” If you can hand-deliver your invitations, consider giving out a “message in a bottle.” Roll up your invitations, and place them in clear plastic bottles. You can even add a bit of sand or seashells to the bottom of the bottles for extra beach flair. If you're inviting a lot of kids to the party, make sure to include their parents, as well. At a pool party, you want to have as much supervision as possible for maximum safety. Create a theme for your pool party. Having a pool party theme will help you to decorate and decide on food for your party. Possible themes include: “Luau”: Give all of your guests flower leis, and encourage everyone to dress up Hawaiian style. Decorate with tiki torches, and play Hawaiian music. “Patriotic Party”: If you live in the U.S., and it's close to July 4, you might want to make your pool party a patriotic one. Decorate with flags and red, white, and blue. “Surf's Up”: Throw a classic beach bash. Decorate with surfboard images, and play music like the Beach Boys. Place seashells around your tables for an added nautical touch. Stock up on party supplies. When you're planning a pool party, make sure to have plenty of pool supplies that guests can use and enjoy. Practically, have extra sunblock on hand, and some extra sunglass, since it will most likely be bright outside. Also, have a few extra towels, in case someone forgets to bring one. Even if you plan on having other drinks, make sure to have cold water available to party guests who get overheated. You can also have an array of pool noodles and rafts for guests to float around on. Encourage guests to bring their own, as well. Choose a classic pool game like Marco Polo, or Sharks and Minnows. These are games that anyone can play in the water without any additional toys. To play Marco Polo, one person starts out as “it.” This person counts to 10, and everyone else scatters around the pool. The person who is “it” plays with their eyes closed. Every time they shout, “Marco!” everyone else must answer back, “Polo!” The person who is “it” tries to catch someone who says “Polo!” Whoever gets tagged then becomes the next person who is “it.” In the game of Sharks and Minnows, one player begins as the shark, and the rest of the players are minnows. The shark starts on the opposite side of the pool as the minnows. To begin the game, the shark says, “Sharks and minnows, one two three, fishies, fishies swim to me!” The minnows try to swim to the other side of the pool. If the shark tags them before they touch the opposite side of the pool, then they become another shark in the next round. This continues until there is only one minnow left. Have a water fight. For a more freeform and fun game, have an ongoing water fight with all of your pool party guests. Before the party, fill up water balloons, and set them out in large buckets. If you have them, set out water squirters, and encourage guests to bring their own to the party. To make it more fun for everyone, have plastic bracelets or necklaces in varying colors. Have one color, such as red, for people to wear if they absolutely do not want to be a part of the water fight. This way, those who want to avoid being splashed can do so. Play volleyball. Volleyball is a great game for pool parties because you can play in the water or out of the water. If you don't have a net, you can simply volley the ball back-and-forth. If you're ambitious, you can even make your own pool volleyball net set up. Either use a volleyball meant for the water or an inflatable beach ball. Serve refreshing snack foods. When you're planning a party poolside, you want to have plenty of light snacks for guests to munch on throughout the party. Set out a plate of fresh fruit like watermelon, pineapple, and berries. Have plenty of tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole. Serve cut vegetables with dips. Have cucumber sandwiches for another bite-sized treat. You can even cut them into the shape of fish. Have a cook out. Grilling outside is a great way to include cooking in your outdoor pool party and feed all your guests a meal. Cook burgers, hot dogs, or vegetarian burgers. You can also grill seasonal vegetables like corn on the cob. Prepare sides like pasta salad ahead of the party. Have sweet treats on hand. Since it's hot, it's a great idea to have cold treats at your party. If you don't have a freezer nearby, have coolers stocked with ice to keep them cool. Serve individual containers of ice cream and popsicles. For a healthier option, you can also freeze fruit, such as grapes. Mix up summery drinks. For the adults, you can serve summer cocktails like strawberry daiquiris, pina coladas, mojitos, and hurricanes. For kids and adults who don't want alcohol, you can serve lemonade, iced tea, and fruit punch. Provide a permanent marker so guests can write their names on their cups. | Choose a date. Find a pool for your party. Send out invitations. Create a theme for your pool party. Stock up on party supplies. Choose a classic pool game like Marco Polo, or Sharks and Minnows. Have a water fight. Play volleyball. Serve refreshing snack foods. Have a cook out. Have sweet treats on hand. Mix up summery drinks. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Birds-Off-Your-Porch | How to Keep Birds Off Your Porch | To keep birds off your porch, hang foil, pie plates, small mirrors, or CDs around the area to reflect light since the sun bothers their eyes. For a noisy way to keep birds away, hang metal wind chimes on your porch. Another way to deter birds is to put fake owls near your porch to scare them away. If you have bird feeders or birdbaths, keep them at least 30 feet away from your porch so the birds don't come too close to your home. Alternatively, get rid of your feeders all together so they're discouraged from coming to your yard. | Hang foil or pie plates around your porch to reflect light. Reflective light creates a visual deterrent for birds since the sun bothers their eyes. Poke a hole in your foil or disposable pie plates and feed a string through it to make a loop. Hang the reflectors on your porch around posts or nails so birds avoid flying or roosting in the area. Attach shiny pinwheels to any posts around your porch to make a reflective deterrent that moves in the wind. When the blades spin, the light will reflect in different areas. You can also use small mirrors or old CDs to reflect light. Put a fake owl near your porch to scare off birds. Birds won't go where they may be trouble, so keeping a fake bird of prey next to your porch will be sure to scare them away. Look for a fake owl with a bobbling head so it looks like it's moving in the wind. Once every few days, move the fake owl to a different place to make it seem like it's flown to a new spot. You can find plastic owls at most home and garden stores. Keep a set of wind chimes near your porch to deter birds with noise. Use metal wind chimes so they also reflect light. Hang the wind chimes near the corner of your porch or near any patio furniture you keep on your porch. Hang multiple wind chimes 10–15 feet (3.0–4.6 m) apart if you have a large porch. Move bird feeders or birdbaths away from your porch if you have any. Bird feeders and baths attract wild birds to your yard. If you have any, keep them at least 30 feet (9.1 m) away from your porch so birds don't come close to your home. Get rid of feeders or bird baths entirely so birds are discouraged from coming to your yard. Sprinkle baking soda around roosting areas to keep birds from perching. Coat common perching areas, like eaves or the tops of outdoor lights, with a thin layer of baking soda. Birds don't like the feeling of baking soda under their feet so they'll avoid landing there. Baking soda needs to be replaced after it rains or gets wet. Choose a narrow set of bird spikes. Bird spikes are long metal rods attached to a base to prevent birds from landing or roosting and are sold in sets made for either small, medium, or large-sized birds. Choose the narrowest set of spikes since birds that will normally come near your porch are smaller songbirds. Bird spikes can be found in many home and garden stores or online. Bird spikes are a humane way to deter birds since they do not harm them in any way. Break the base of the spikes or combine multiple pieces to fit your space. Measure the length of the area you want to attach your bird spikes with a tape measure. To make a long row of spikes, snap the ends of each base together. If you need to make a piece shorter, look for the notched break points along the plastic base. Bend the spikes at their break points to snap them apart. Many sets of bird spikes are sold in kits that cover 50–100 feet (15–30 m). Choose the kit that works best for the length you need. Glue or screw the bird spikes on areas where birds may land or roost. Use a caulk gun and clear epoxy glue to adhere the spikes to the area if you want a permanent installation. Place 3-4 dabs of epoxy per 1 foot (0.30 m) of bird spikes. For a less permanent option, use a drill to drive self-tapping screws in each of the base's screw holes. Although bird spikes aren't sharpened, don't put them in an area where they could harm pets or children. Use gutter clips to install the spikes onto your overhang. Gutter clips should be included in your bird spikes kit so you can hang them over your eaves. Feed the ends of the clips onto the base of your spikes so you have 2 clips per 1 foot (0.30 m). Use the other end of the clip to hang the spikes inside your gutters. You can easily remove and reinstall the spikes if you need to clean your gutters. | Hang foil or pie plates around your porch to reflect light. Put a fake owl near your porch to scare off birds. Keep a set of wind chimes near your porch to deter birds with noise. Move bird feeders or birdbaths away from your porch if you have any. Sprinkle baking soda around roosting areas to keep birds from perching. Choose a narrow set of bird spikes. Break the base of the spikes or combine multiple pieces to fit your space. Glue or screw the bird spikes on areas where birds may land or roost. Use gutter clips to install the spikes onto your overhang. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Torque-Wrench | How to Use a Torque Wrench | A torque wrench is a unique tool that can be adjusted to tighten nuts and bolts to a specific torque level, which is measured in foot-pounds or meters per kilogram. To adjust your torque wrench, loosen the cap on the bottom of the handle by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose, slide the handle up or down the wrench until the tip of the handle rests on the horizontal hash mark closest to your desired setting. The horizontal hash marks on the wrench are in multiples of 10 and are used to measure larger changes in the torque. Next, make minor adjustments by twisting the handle clockwise to increase the torque, or counterclockwise to lower the torque. The vertical hash marks on the handle itself are labeled with single digits and are used to make minor changes. For example, to reach 202 foot pounds (2,660 meters per kilogram), slide the handle up to the 200 hash mark, then twist the handle itself until the 2 is lined up with the hash marks on the handle. Screw the cap on the bottom of the handle clockwise to tighten it and lock your torque setting in at its current level. Keep in mind that a torque wrench can only be used to tighten nuts or bolts. You'll need to use a different tool to loosen them back up in the future. | Loosen the tightener at the end of the wrench’s handle. Look at the end of your wrench's handle to find the tightener that locks the settings in place. It is usually a plastic or metal cap that is stuck into the end of your wrench. Often, it is a different color than the rest of your wrench as well. Twist it counterclockwise by hand to loosen the piece so that you can change the wrench's settings. You don't need to take it off of your wrench, just loosen it until you don't feel a ton of resistance. Find and identify the torque measurements on your wrench. Inspect the area near your handle to find the hash marks for the torque setting. There will be 1 set of larger numbers on the body of the wrench and 1 set of smaller numbers on the handle. The smaller numbers are the smaller digits, while the larger numbers are the larger units. Torque is measured in foot-pounds or meter-kilograms (ft-lb or m-kg). Your torque wrench will list 2 sets of numbers on the wrench's hash marks. The lower number is the measurement in foot-pounds. The larger number is the measurement in meter-kilograms. The vertical location of the edge of the handle determines the baseline while the rotation of the handle determines the smaller digits. There is a center line on the wrench to show where the handle is set. For example, if the edge of the handle is on the hash mark for 100, and the smaller number on the handle itself is turned to 5, the torque setting for the wrench is 105 ft-lb (1397 m-kg). Turn the dial to raise or lower the torque setting on the wrench. With the tightener loosened, brace the body of the wrench with your nondominant hand. Turn the handle clockwise to raise it, or counterclockwise to lower it. Once you reach the desired hash mark, stop turning the handle. If you need to reach a specific number, raise the handle to the hash mark that is within 5 ft-lb (200 m-kg) of your number. So if you know you need to reach 140 ft-lb (1860 m-kg), raise the handle to the hash mark between 135-145 ft-lb (1795-1928 m-kg). Some torque wrench handles are slide up and down instead of twisting into place. Twist the dial on the handle to make minor adjustments. Once you're close to the desired number, turn your attention from the height of the handle to the dial itself. Follow the readings as you turn the handle slowly. As you turn clockwise, the number goes up. As you turn counterclockwise, the number goes down. There are a few negative numbers after 0 so that you can move down a little as well. On some wrenches, the dial moves independently of the handle and you can twist it by turning the dial, not the handle. Add the smaller digit on the handle to the number on the larger hash mark to determine total torque. Once you've adjusted the handle's height and twisted the dial, calculate your total torque to ensure that it's accurately adjusted by adding the numbers together. Take the hash mark on your handle and add the number marked on the dial to get your torque. So if the dial reads 4, and the handle reads 50, your total torque is 54 ft-lb (718 m-kg). You add the negative numbers as well. For example, if your hash mark is 120 and the dial is -2, you add 120 to -2 to get 118 ft-lb (1569 m-kg). Screw the tightener back into the end of the wrench by hand to lock it. To lock a torque setting into the wrench, flip it back over to the handle. Brace the wrench in your nondominant hand to keep it still. Twist the tightener clockwise by hand until it won't move any more. This will lock the handle in place. Once you lock the tightener, you cannot adjust your torque setting. Put your socket on the head of your wrench. To use your torque wrench, start by sliding a socket that matches your nut or bolt into the head of your torque wrench. If you have an extender or adaptor that you're using, you can slide that into the opening at the head instead. Torque wrenches come in different sizes, but the sockets are almost always interchangeable. Torque wrenches are expensive, so they rarely come in a single size. Turn the nut or bolt by hand until it catches the threading on the screw. Take the nut or bolt that you're going to tighten and place it over the threading for the screw or opening on your vehicle by hand. Turn the vehicle's nut or bolt clockwise with your fingers until the threading catches the threading on the screw. Turn the nut or bolt until it won't turn by hand anymore. Fit the socket on top of the nut or bolt that you’re tightening. With the nut or bolt set on the threading, hold the handle of the torque wrench in your nondominant hand. Use your dominant hand to guide the socket, adaptor, or extender on to the nut or bolt. Slide the wrench over the nut or bolt until the 2 pieces are flush. Turn the handle clockwise to tighten the nut or bolt. Rotate the handle clockwise to begin tightening the nut or bolt. Almost all torque wrenches have automatic return functions so you don't need to reposition them on the nut or bolt. For this type of wrench, simply move it counterclockwise to reset it. If you have a manual wrench, reposition it on the nut or bolt to continue torquing it down. If you hear a clicking or switching noise when you return the handle counterclockwise, you have an automatically-returning torque wrench. Stop turning the wrench when it starts clicking or stops moving. If your automatic wrench clicks when you're returning it, keep tightening the nut or bolt. If it starts clicking when you turn it clockwise though, stop tightening the nut or bolt. The clicking noise while tightening indicates that you have reached your desired torque level. On a manual wrench, stop turning it when you feel the wrench resisting. So if you have the handle adjusted to 100 ft-lb (1330 m-kg) of torque, the bolt is tightened to that level the moment it starts clicking when you try to tighten it. Manual wrenches will simply stop moving after the nut or bolt has been turned to the intended level of torque. Dial the wrench back to zero when you’re done using it. When you're done using the wrench, turn both dial settings on the handle back to 0. Leaving the dial turned to a torque setting higher than 0 can throw the calibration off over time. Turning the wrench to negative numbers is equally as bad for your wrench. Clean dirty or rusty nuts or bolts before loosening them. One of the easiest ways to damage your wrench is to allow rust and grime buildup inside your sockets. This makes it harder for your torque wrench to get an adequate grip on the socket and can cause a lot of problems over time. Clean each bolt or nut that you plan on tightening with a towel or rag before attaching your wrench. Torque wrenches aren't meant to be lubricated. Get any grease or lubricant off of your bolt or nut by using a degreaser before attaching a socket. Get your wrench calibrated at least once a year. Unless you have years of experience working on cars, it's best to have a mechanic or torque wrench specialist calibrate your torque wrench for you. When using your torque wrench, a discrepancy will naturally develop between the measurements on your handle and the actual torque of the wrench. Fix this problem and prevent dangerous scenarios by getting your wrench calibrated once a year. Calibration usually costs between $25-75 USD. | Loosen the tightener at the end of the wrench’s handle. Find and identify the torque measurements on your wrench. Turn the dial to raise or lower the torque setting on the wrench. Twist the dial on the handle to make minor adjustments. Add the smaller digit on the handle to the number on the larger hash mark to determine total torque. Screw the tightener back into the end of the wrench by hand to lock it. Put your socket on the head of your wrench. Turn the nut or bolt by hand until it catches the threading on the screw. Fit the socket on top of the nut or bolt that you’re tightening. Turn the handle clockwise to tighten the nut or bolt. Stop turning the wrench when it starts clicking or stops moving. Dial the wrench back to zero when you’re done using it. Clean dirty or rusty nuts or bolts before loosening them. Get your wrench calibrated at least once a year. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Respected | How to Be Respected | The best way to be respected is to set boundaries and clearly communicate with people who walk over you. Stick to your word, and admit to your mistakes whenever you are at fault. However, don't apologize for no reason, or people might think you're weak. | Excel at communication. Speak warmly and engage those whom you are speaking to. Be able to speak comfortably about a wide range of topics. Avoid vulgar and poor language, as well as using words like “um” or “like” to punctuate your sentences. Communication isn't just talking – it's about listening, as well. Incessant talking isn't the mark of a respected person. Try to truly listen to others and be genuinely engaged so you become more trustworthy. Take a moment to think before you speak. Keep your emotions in check. Remain calm in tense situations and speak in a calm, relaxed voice. Strive to act, rather than react emotionally. Diffuse bad situations whenever possible, and take a moment to think before instantly reacting to a negative provocation. Well-respected people know how to keep their cool under tense conditions. During arguments, hold your temper to prevent escalations, and if someone raises their voice at you, respond calmly. Control your body language. Stand up straight, look people directly in the eye, and speak in a steady, composed voice when in conversation. These things exude confidence, which people very much respect. Conversely, slouching, mumbling and being afraid of eye contact communicates to others that you aren't confident in yourself. Self-confidence is respected. Solve problems. When faced with a problem, do not react emotionally or with visible frustration. Instead, focus on addressing the problem and looking for ways to solve it. Try not to complain or get angry, since neither of those things are going to help the situation. When others see you calmly find a solution to a problem rather than react angrily or emotionally, they will respect your composure and appreciate your readiness to remedy the situation. Take pride in your appearance. Always practice good hygiene and make sure your clothes are neat and clean. Take the time to be well-groomed. Keep your nails trimmed, shower daily and always brush and floss your teeth. Being poorly groomed usually sends a negative message to others about your self-worth. If you don't respect yourself and your appearance, it will be very difficult to gain the respect of others. Say “no” more often. People often believe that taking on more projects and responsibilities will make others respect them, but that's not the case. You can't agree to every opportunity or request presented to you. Saying no shows others that you value your own time and care more about delivering quality results over quantity. The delivery of the message is just as important as the message itself. Be polite, frank, and decline with a smile. It's not personal, you just don't have the time to take on anything extra right now. Don't feel guilty about saying no when you have to. Feel good about standing up for yourself. Have an opinion. . Whether it's an idea, a thought, or a protest, avoid remaining passive if you have something to say. Don't be afraid of voicing your opinions and bringing ideas to the table, even if it makes you a little nervous. People appreciate when someone has the guts to say what they think. Avoid being passive-aggressive about your opinions. Be more direct with what your intentions and thoughts are. Just be mindful of other cultures' boundaries. If you aren't used to speaking up, try practicing what you want to say beforehand. Voicing your opinions doesn't mean verbally passing judgment on everything going on around you. Voice your opinions when they matter. Stop being too nice. You can be kind to others without constantly having to do things for them. No one respects a pushover. You can't please everyone, nor should you try, and allowing yourself to be taken advantage of because you're nice shows others that you don't respect yourself. Establish boundaries so others know what behavior is acceptable to you. Be assertive with your choices. Being too nice can also have the undesired effect of people thinking you are fake and disingenuous. Quit apologizing. The only time you need to apologize is when you've done something wrong. Unfortunately, many people get in the habit of saying “sorry” almost automatically, without even thinking about it. Reserve your apologies for situations that actually call for them. Stop taking the blame for every little thing that goes wrong around you. Say something when you’re being mistreated. If you are being taken advantage of or mistreated, you don't have to resign yourself to enduring it silently. Stand up for yourself. Standing up for yourself doesn't mean lashing out in response – that will only make things worse. Instead, be tactful and polite when you do it. Standing up for yourself can be scary, but that's precisely why other people will respect you for doing it. When you speak up, make sure you literally speak up – do not mumble, trip over your words, or look down at your feet in embarrassment. You have every right to stand up for yourself. Keep your word. When you commit to something and then don't follow through, people see you as unreliable. Keep your promises to others and get out of the habit of making promises that you can't keep. Proving your dependability will garner respect from others. Be the person who can be counted on. Be honest and tell the truth when you don't know something. Be on time. When you are late, whether that is to an appointment, a meeting, a deadline or responding to an email, you lose the respect of others because they feel that you don't value their time. Strive to always be punctual. When you show your peers that you respect their time by being prompt, they will respond by respecting your time and you. Avoid gossiping. Frequently engaging in gossip, especially negative gossip that puts other people down, will do nothing good for you. In fact, it usually results in people thinking less of you and gossiping about you when you aren't in the room. You don't have to like everyone, but you should always be respectful toward them. Know the difference between socializing and gossiping, and never participate in the latter. Make an effort to avoid drama with your peers. Stand up for someone else. Just as you should always stand up for yourself, you should also try to do the same when you see someone else being mistreated, especially if they are unable to do it for themselves. There is a time and place for this, and sometimes butting in would be inappropriate, but if it's something that you can do, do it. Respecting someone else enough to take up for them will earn you their respect in return. Pay attention to your surroundings and take opportunities to show empathy toward others when at all possible. When you are able to demonstrate that you are willing to offer help when it is needed, you're demonstrating that you care about others, which never fails to gain respect. Reach out to others when you need help too. Asking another person will make them feel valued and shows that you think highly of them. It also shows that you have the courage to admit to your weaknesses. | Excel at communication. Keep your emotions in check. Control your body language. Solve problems. Take pride in your appearance. Say “no” more often. Have an opinion. Stop being too nice. Quit apologizing. Say something when you’re being mistreated. Keep your word. Be on time. Avoid gossiping. Stand up for someone else. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Drain-a-Cyst | How to Drain a Cyst | To drain your cyst, start by mixing of 3 drops of tea tree oil with 7 drops of castor oil. Then, apply the mixture to your cyst with a cotton swab and repeat the process 4 times a day. Alternatively, rub aloe vera gel on the area a few times a day, let it dry, and wash it off. You can also put a warm chamomile teabag on the cyst for five minutes several times a day. If your cyst hasn't responded to home treatments, you may want to visit your doctor to have it drained surgically. | Anesthetize the area. Getting a cyst drained requires local or general anesthesia, depending on the severity of the cyst. Before draining your cyst, your doctor will administer a local or general anesthesia to prevent you from feeling any pain from the procedure. For a small skin cyst, only a local anesthesia may be necessary, and these procedures can often be performed in the doctor's office. If the cyst is deep or large, then general anesthesia may be necessary. This may require a hospital visit, but is usually a day surgery. Make the incision. After the area has been anesthetized, your doctor will make an incision in the cyst using a sterile surgical knife. The incision will allow your doctor to drain the contents of the cyst and remove the cyst wall if necessary. Removing the cyst wall may help prevent the cyst from returning. Place a drainage tube if necessary. In some cases, it may be necessary to place a drainage tube in order to allow a cyst to continue to drain for a few days. Your doctor will secure the tube using stitches and the opening will be less than a ¼ inch (6 mm) in diameter. This process is called “marsupialization.” Suture the area if necessary. After the cyst has been fully drained and the cyst wall has been removed, your doctor will suture the area where the incision was made. You may need to wear a bandage over this area as well. Make sure that you follow your doctor's instructions for caring for the surgical wound. Call your doctor if you notice any signs of infection including: Redness, particularly red streaks emanating from the wound site Warmth Swelling Pus Intense throbbing at the wound site Fever of 100.4 °F (38°C) or more Take antibiotics as instructed. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic as part of the follow-up treatment for an infected cyst or if your cyst was related to a sexually transmitted infection. If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, then it is important to use it exactly as directed. Make sure that you take the full prescription or you may be at a higher risk of infection, re-infection, or complications later on. Take a Sitz bath for Bartholin cysts. Soaking in a warm Sitz bath may help drain Bartholin cysts. To prepare a Sitz bath, fill your bathtub with a few inches of warm water. Then soak in the tub for about 15 minutes. Repeat this process several times each day for a three or four days to make it easier for your cysts to burst and drain. Adding a bit of Epsom salts to the water, along with lavender essential oil, can help to heal the cyst faster and provide relief. You can alternate this with adding a half cup of apple cider vinegar to the bath for added relief. Apply tea tree oil to the cyst. Tea tree oil has been found useful for many different skin conditions, so it might help with a sebaceous cyst as well. Mix three drops of tea tree essential oil with seven drops of castor oil. Then, use a cotton ball or Q-tip to apply this mixture directly to your cyst four times per day. Use aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel seems to have antibacterial properties and some studies have shown that it promotes wound healing as well. You can apply aloe vera gel directly to your cyst to encourage a cyst to drain and heal. Let the aloe vera gel dry and then rinse the area with warm water. Repeat this process a few times per day. Dab some witch hazel onto the cyst. Witch hazel is often used to bring down swelling and it also has astringent qualities, so applying witch hazel to a cyst may help to dry it out. Soak a cotton ball or a Q-tip with some witch hazel and dab it onto your cyst. Repeat this process a few time throughout the day. Soak the area in apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is often used to help with skin conditions such as acne, so it may also help to dry out a cyst and promote drainage. You can apply apple cider vinegar directly to the cyst with a cotton ball or Q-tip. Repeat the application a few times per day. If the vinegar stings or irritates your skin, you can use a mixture of half apple cider vinegar and half water. Place a chamomile teabag on the cyst. Chamomile is often used to help treat skin conditions, so it may help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of your cyst. Try placing a warm chamomile teabag on your cyst for about five minutes. Repeat this process a few times per day. Drinking the tea may help to clear your lymphatic system and improve healing time. Apply a warm compress. Using a warm compress is one of the easiest ways to ease pain from a cyst and encourage it to drain as well. Get a clean washcloth and hold it under warm to hot running water. Then, wring out the excess water and apply the washcloth to your cyst. Hold it there for about five minutes or until the washcloth becomes cool. You can repeat this process several times per day. Keep the area clean. Use a mild soap to wash around the area of your cyst and allow the water and soap to run over the cyst. Try not to apply too much pressure to the cyst itself or you may irritate it or cause it to burst and this can lead to infection. Place a bandage over the cyst if it starts to drain. If your cyst bursts or starts to drain fluid, place a clean, loose fitting cotton bandage over the cyst to catch the fluid. Change the bandage often and keep the area clean. Leave it alone. Do not try to squeeze, pop, or puncture a cyst or it may become infected. This might be hard to do, especially if the cyst is bothering you, but popping or puncturing a cyst will make it worse and you may have scars as a result. | Anesthetize the area. Make the incision. Place a drainage tube if necessary. Suture the area if necessary. Take antibiotics as instructed. Take a Sitz bath for Bartholin cysts. Apply tea tree oil to the cyst. Use aloe vera gel. Dab some witch hazel onto the cyst. Soak the area in apple cider vinegar. Place a chamomile teabag on the cyst. Apply a warm compress. Keep the area clean. Place a bandage over the cyst if it starts to drain. Leave it alone. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Pickle-Onions | How to Pickle Onions | To pickle an onion, slice the onion and fill a pot with water. As the water heats, toast 4 cloves, a cinnamon stick, a small dried chili, and a sprig of fresh thyme in a pan for 3-5 minutes. Add the onions to the hot water for 10 seconds and strain them through a sieve before placing them in an ice bath to cool before drying. Then, bring the spices, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of lime juice, and 1/4 cup of sugar to a simmer and add the juice to a container with the onions. Store the onions in the fridge for a day before enjoying! | Halve, peel, and slice the onion. Red onions go great for this recipe; with their distinctive taste and deep red color, they actually turn pink after a couple days in the refrigerator. You can slice the onions to the thickness you prefer — however thick, they'll still take the pickling solution. Some people prefer to cut the onions in a full moon, which makes them easy to grab with a fork; others prefer them smaller, cut them into half moons. Heat some water over the stove or in a kettle. Heat enough water to completely submerge the sliced onion. While the water begins to boil, toast the spices in a small pot. Throw the cloves, cinnamon, chili, and thyme into a pot and toast them over medium-low heat until they become aromatic, about 3 - 5 minutes. When the water is just about to boil, remove it from the heat and add the onions to the water. Count to 10, and then strain the water and onions through a sieve. Why parboil the onions? Parboiling removes a little bit of the acid zing from raw onions. You don't have to parboil if you like the zing of raw onions, but a slightly mellower onion makes the pickling juice really stand out. Transfer the onions from the sieve to the ice bath to stop them from cooking. You can let the onions rest there or remove them after 10 seconds. Onions which are left in the ice bath will continue to mellow while the sulfur compounds (the onion's natural defense) diffuse into the water. Once onions are done, drain them completely and place them into a container. Add the vinegar, lime juice, and 1/4 cup of sugar to the toasted spices. Turn on the burner to medium high and bring the pickling juice to a simmer, dissolving the sugar completely. Simmer for an additional minute. Remove the pickling juice from heat and pour into container with onions. Seal the container and place into refrigerator. The pickled onions will be ready to try in as little as one hour, but are best after at least one day. Store pickled onions in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Red onions which are pickled will turn slightly pink as they age. Enjoy. Try your pickles on homemade tacos , sandwiches with richer cuts of meat (like pork) , or a hearty stew. Choose different spices for your pickling juice. The above spices are just one combination that works well together. There are lots of spices that work well in a pickling liquid for onions. Here are just a few: Fresh whole garlic. A little goes a long way, but who doesn't like the combination of garlic and onion? Simply divine. Fresh ginger. Cuts through the acidity with its distinctive taste. Bay leaf. Dried bay leaf has a smoky, fresh complexity. Fresh herbs. Experiment with rosemary, oregano, marjoram, or tarragon, among many others. Juniper berries. Fruity, spicy, complex. These berries give gin their distinctive taste. Star anise. Great substitute for or addition to cloves. Mustard seed. This seed adds a bit of smoky tang to the onions. Pickle beets along with your onions to give them a distinctive pink color. If you've only got yellow or white onions, but still want that distinctive pink color in your onions, beets are your friend. They've got a natural red dye that's close to flavorless. And did we mention they taste excellent, too? Pickle your onions whole for a traditional English variety of the recipe. The traditional English approach to pickled onions is to use smaller yellow onions, or shallots, and then keep them whole. Malt vinegar is generally used instead of apple cider or sherry vinegar. Give it a go for a different culinary experience. | Halve, peel, and slice the onion. Heat some water over the stove or in a kettle. While the water begins to boil, toast the spices in a small pot. When the water is just about to boil, remove it from the heat and add the onions to the water. Transfer the onions from the sieve to the ice bath to stop them from cooking. Add the vinegar, lime juice, and 1/4 cup of sugar to the toasted spices. Remove the pickling juice from heat and pour into container with onions. Enjoy. Choose different spices for your pickling juice. Pickle beets along with your onions to give them a distinctive pink color. Pickle your onions whole for a traditional English variety of the recipe. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Liking-Your-Crush | How to Stop Liking Your Crush | The best way to stop liking your crush is by getting some distance from them. You should delete their contact number from your phone and unfollow them on social media sites so you aren't tempted to talk to them. Besides minimizing contact with them, you can distract yourself from your crush by focusing on your hobbies and interests. For example, consider taking a rock climbing class or picking up painting. If you go to school or work together, don't sit near them so you don't have to talk. Should you need to talk to them, simply keep the conversation short and polite. | Distance yourself from them. One of the most effective ways to help you get over your crush is by distancing yourself from them. Minimize any contact or the potential for contact so that you can get over them without having any lingering ties that could upset you or reinforce your feelings for them. Distancing yourself will be hard at first, but it's ultimately for the better and will make the process of getting over them easier and faster. Remove their contact information and text messages from your phone. One way to assure that you won't have any contact with your crush is to delete their contact information from your phone. Also consider erasing any text messages from them that you may have. Deleting this information will not only keep you from contacting them in a moment of weakness, but won't be an ever-present reminder of them, either. If you're reluctant to delete their information entirely, consider writing it on a piece of paper that you won't see every day and store it in a safe place. Email copies of their text messages and then archive them if you aren't ready to completely delete them. Remember that even if you delete your contact, they may not delete you. If they contact you, you can either not respond or choose to send a brief, polite response. Remove them from social media sites. The large number of social media sites, such as Facebook and Instagram, means increased accessibility to people, even those with whom you don't necessarily want to be in contact. By removing your crush's presence from your social media accounts, you can further limit the amount of contact you have with them. If you're concerned that you might hurt your crush or leave others questioning your motives by unfollowing or defriending them on social media sites, find a way to minimize what you see on these apps. For example, on Facebook you can simply unsubscribe from their posts, which will make sure that you don't get status updates. Stop talking about them and don’t allow yourself to think about them. It's natural when you have a crush on someone to talk about them and to think about them a lot, but this will only reinforce your feelings. Consciously not mentioning them in conversations and actively shifting your thoughts when you do think about them will help you get over them more quickly. It may be difficult to not mention them in conversations, especially if you have mutual friends, so try to not talk about them or ask how they are too often. You can also step away from conversations about them. If you need to talk about them to process your thoughts and feelings, do so but don't make it a regular habit. Ask your friends not to bring them up. If your friends know that you have feelings for your crush, they may occasionally mention them. This will only remind you of them and may hinder your ability to get over them, so ask your friends to not bring them up or update you if possible. There will likely be situations, especially in groups with mutual friends, where your crush's name is brought up. In order to get over them more quickly, step away from these groups until they've moved on to a new topic of conversation. Avoid places they and their friends go. You and your crush may have many things in common, including friends, classes or workplaces, or favorite places. Avoid situations where you run the risk of seeing them. If you take classes together or work in the same place, don't sit near them. If they sit next to you, you can also find a way to relocate or decide to keep it cordial. Also do not engage in eye contact with them.Then it could make things awkward or spark a unwanted conversation. If you like the same restaurants, for example, try out new places to eat. Get rid of tangible traces of them. Getting rid of any reminders of them that you may have will help you get over your crush. You'll want to remove traces of them from everything from your phone and social media to photographs and other mementos in your home. You can either take a gradual or cold-turkey approach to removing them from your life. It might be emotionally easier for you to remove reminders of them bit by bit, or you can also get rid of traces of them all at once. Doing this at all once will be very difficult, but can speed up the process of getting over your crush. Delete emails or get rid of letters, cards, or presents from your crush. Holding on to these things make you hold on to your feelings for them. Delete any photos of them or the two of you together. Allow yourself to grieve and don’t get mad. Getting over your crush is a painful process and it's completely acceptable to grieve over the relationship you had. But it's also important to not get mad at your crush in the process- just as you can't control your feelings for them, they can't control their feelings for you. Recognize that your crush was something significant in your life. Even if you didn't have a romantic relationship, you still had some relationship to them. It's ok to be sad over the loss of this. Don't be angry with your crush. They might not even know that you had feelings for them or they might be in a situation where they can't reciprocate your feelings. Don't get angry with them over something which they don't have much control. There are many reasons why you may have to get over your crush. Perhaps they found a boyfriend/girlfriend or perhaps they were always in a relationship or married. Maybe your parents oppose them, or and maybe it's something as simple as they're too old for you. Maybe you are wise enough to realize that you wouldn't be compatible in a relationship, even though you have romantic feelings for them. These are all factors over which you have very little control, and about which you cannot be mad at them. If you're having an especially hard time with the process, you can always get counseling to help you with your feelings. Know you’ll find someone else. There are many fish in the sea and your crush may not be the right person for you in the end. You will find someone else who is great for you, and the quicker you get over your crush, the more open your heart will be to finding this person. Focusing on your crush's flaws can help you get over them and possibly even find someone better suited for you. Lean on your support system. You're likely not feeling your best as you try to get over this significant person in your life, so this is a good time to lean on- or even reconnect with- your family and friends. From talking about your feelings to distracting you with fun activities, your support system can help you to get over your crush more quickly. Friends and family will keep you from wallowing in your sadness. They can provide an excellent distraction by doing fun activities with you that don't involve your crush. Focus on yourself and your other interests. Concentrate on yourself while you try to get over your crush. This may make realize that you don't have feelings for them. For example, start exercising or try a new fitness activity like yoga, which will also help you focus your mind on something other than your crush. You might also want to take a class that will help you with your job. Whatever you do, always make sure that it makes you feel good about yourself. Try new activities. This is also a good time to try out new activities, which will distract you from your feelings. The more often you can do something that distances you from your crush, the easier it will be to get over them. For example, maybe you've always wanted to learn how to rock climb. This new activity will require a lot of practice, leaving less time to think about your crush. Meet new people. Getting out and meeting new people who don't have any relationship to your contact is a good distraction from your feelings and your crush. You may find you have a much better time with new friends and acquaintances than you ever did with them. There are many different ways to meet new people, including joining a running group or going to happy hours at new places. Group activities are an excellent way to meet new people and distract yourself from your crush. Consider flirting or dating someone else. You might not be ready to fully commit to another person, but casually flirting with or dating another person can also help you to more quickly get over your crush. This will boost your self-confidence and distract you from your feelings for your crush. A little harmless flirting may be good to help you gain self-confidence and remember that there are other people with whom you might have a connection. Just remember to keep it light and fun. | Distance yourself from them. Remove their contact information and text messages from your phone. Remove them from social media sites. Stop talking about them and don’t allow yourself to think about them. Ask your friends not to bring them up. Avoid places they and their friends go. Get rid of tangible traces of them. Allow yourself to grieve and don’t get mad. Know you’ll find someone else. Lean on your support system. Focus on yourself and your other interests. Try new activities. Meet new people. Consider flirting or dating someone else. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Strengthen-Your-Wrists | How to Strengthen Your Wrists | If you want to strengthen your wrists, make an effort to start using your non-dominant hand for daily tasks, like brushing your teeth, writing, or eating. In your downtime, squeeze a stress ball or a palm exercise device, alternating which hand you use. You can also strengthen your wrist muscles by holding your hands out in front of you with your palms down and moving your wrists in a slow circular motion. | Try wrist curls as a good "bread and butter" exercise. Wrist curls are one of the quintessential wrist and forearm exercises. To do a wrist curl, you'll need a weighted dumbbell (you can also use a barbell to hit both hands at once). Sit at a bench or bicep curl rack. Hold your dumbbell so your palm faces upwards. Using only your forearm muscles, curl the dumbbell up toward your wrist as far as you can without bending your elbow. Lower the dumbbell back down and repeat the curling motion. Repeat for both arms. Do three sets of 15 reps or until you feel sufficiently fatigued. Unless otherwise noted, these set recommendations hold true for all exercises in this article. You can also do this exercise at home with a soup can or a jug of milk in place of a dumbbell. Use reverse wrist curls to work the other side of your wrists. Reverse wrist curls are just what they sound like — normal wrist curls performed backwards. These are great to do right after a few sets of ordinary wrist curls to ensure that you work out all of your wrist muscles. Sit on a bench. Rest one forearm on your thigh so that your hand extends beyond your knee. Take a dumbbell and hold it so your palm faces downward. Let the dumbbell hang limp in your hand, then, using only your wrist, pull it up so it is level with the rest of your arm. Lower the dumbbell back down and repeat the raising motion. Repeat for both arms. Try wrist rolls for a challenge. These exercises may look unconventional, but if you can power through them, they're highly effective at strengthening your wrists. For this exercise, you'll need a sturdy stick or rod (like a broom handle or a dumbbell without weight on it. Tie a modest weight (like five or ten pounds) to the end of a sturdy string and tie the other end to the center of the rod. Hold the rod out in front of you and let the weight hang at the end of its string. Your palms should be facing down. Start to turn the rod with your arms — the string should start winding up and the weight should start climbing towards the stick. Stop when the weight touches the stick, then, carefully roll it back down to the floor. Do not stop or let your arms fall throughout this exercise. Repeat for three to five windings or until you are sufficiently fatigued. Try two-hand pinches. This challenging exercise uses heavy barbell plates, making it a good choice for those who are already strong and want to take their wrist and forearm strength to the next level. Because these plates can cause serious injury if they are dropped, you may want to stick to the exercises above if you aren't already an experienced gym-goer. Place two barbell plates of the same size on the floor in front of you so that you are facing their wide edge and so that they are touching each other. Grip both plates at once over the top — your fingers should be on one side of the plates and your thumbs should be on the other. Lift the weight off of the ground and hold it in front of your hips as if you were doing a deadlift. Pinch the weights together to keep them from slipping. Hold for 30 seconds (or as long as you can), then set the weights back down. Repeat for 3-5 sets or until you are sufficiently fatigued. Perform this exercise while sitting on a bench and hold the weights well away from your feet. If you must stand, keep a wide stance. If you keep your feet together, the plates are more likely to hit them if they slip out of your hands. Use grip-based exercises to indirectly improve wrist strength. A huge variety of gym exercises that don't directly target the wrists still rely on grip strength and thus will indirectly work the forearm and wrist muscles. If you're serious about improving your wrist strength, try adding more of these exercises to your workout schedule to give yourself extra opportunities throughout your week. Below is a short list of exercises that use forearm/wrist grip strength for support — there are many more (you'll notice that all involve gripping a bar or handle to move weight.) Pullups Chin ups Bicep curls Deadlifts Seated rows Lat pulldowns Chest presses Chest flies Shoulder presses. Don't forget wrist stretches for improving flexibility. Just like the other muscles you train at the gym, wrists need stretching to maintain flexibility and keep them feeling great from week to week. In addition, regularly stretching your wrists is one way to stave off painful conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome that can develop over time as the body matures. Below are a few recommended wrist stretches: Prayer stretches: Start with your palms together in front of your chest. Slowly lower your palms (keeping them together) until your forearms form a straight line. This should look a little like you're praying and you should feel a gentle stretch in your forearms. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds and repeat several times for best results. Wrist flexor stretch: Extend one arm in front of you with the palm facing up. Point your hand at the floor by bending your wrist — don't turn your arm. Apply gently pressure with your other hand until you feel a moderate stretch. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch hands. Wrist extensor stretch: Extend one arm in front of your with the palm facing down. Point your hand at the floor by bending your wrist. Apply gentle pressure with your other hand until you feel a moderate stretch. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch hands. Use both hands for one-handed tasks. For most people, the wrist of the dominant hand is noticeably stronger than the wrist of the non-dominant hand. If you make an effort to start using your non-dominant hand for your daily tasks, you will probably be surprised at how hard they are to accomplish! Stick with it — over time, your weaker wrist will become stronger and your tasks will become easier. Below is a short list of tasks you can start using your "off" hand for. Brushing your teeth Writing Using a computer mouse/touchpad Eating Stirring Try squeezing a stress ball or palm exercise device. You may have seen these hand-held exercise devices in workout rooms, high-stress places (like home offices), and more. Though they come in many different shapes and sizes, the basic idea is the same for all of them — hold the device in your hand, squeeze firmly but steadily, relax your grip, and repeat. That's all there is to it! These are great for when you have one hand free. For instance, it's not hard to get a wrist workout in while you talk on the phone or read a book. Try a golf wrist exercise. Thinking of hitting the links in the near future? Dust off your golf clubs early for this exercise, which is great for improving your wrists' strength along their entire range of motion. You can also use any sort of long, rigid object light enough to manipulate with one hand (like, for instance, a broom.) Stand with your arm at your side and hold a golf club by the end of the handle. Using only your wrist, slowly point it toward the sky, then point it back down again. Repeat until you feel a good "burn" in your forearm. For an extra challenge, start with a light club, then work your way up to your heavier ones. Try doing wrist circles. These minimum-resistance exercises are great for quick breaks at the office or in situations where you can't do more complicated exercises (such as when you're on an airplane.) They're sometimes also used in physical therapy situations, but don't let that stop you if you're perfectly healthy, as wrist circles can be a great relaxer if you're feeling "all wound up." Stand or sit with your hands out in front of you, palms down. Move your wrists in a slow circular motion to the left, then back to the right. You may want to clench and unclench your fists as you do this to add an extra degree of motion to the exercise. After you've worked out any kinks, turn your palms over and start over. Try resistance band exercises. Resistance bands are large, elastic strips of rubbery material which are often used for physical therapy purposes, but they're also great for building strength even if you're not recovering an injury. You'll need a sturdy resistance band for these exercises — usually, these are available at exercise stores, but you may also be able to get them from physical therapy centers. Below are two resistance band exercises for your wrists you may want to try out: Wrist flexion: Loop the resistance band over the fingers of one hand, then stand with your arm at your side, your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle, and your hand palm-up in front of you. Put the other end of your resistance band under your foot or attach it to the floor. Curl your wrist upwards as far as you can, then let your hand relax back down and repeat. Keep your forearms steady as you do this. Note that this exercise is very similar to the wrist curl described above. Wrist extensions: Identical to wrist flexion, except with your hand turned palm-down. This exercise is very similar to a standing wrist curl. Try the rice bucket workout.This unconventional exercise doesn't have much in common with the others on this list, but it's simple to set up and perform and it's quite effective at building wrist and forearm strength. In fact, some baseball teams recommend it for their players as a way to build wrist strength. All you'll need for this exercise is a container wide and deep enough that both hands fit in it comfortably without touching each other and enough rice to bury your hands in the container. Start by pouring the rice into the container. Plunge your hands into the rice until they are buried up to your wrists. Next, make the following motions with your hands and repeat until you feel a good burn — the resistance of the rice being pushed by your hands will exercise your wrists a surprising amount. Clench your hands into fists and turn them in circles back and forth. Open your hands and turn them in circles back and forth. Open and close your hands while submerged in the rice. Move your hands up and down. Make wrist curl movements with your palms facing you. Make reverse wrist curl movements with your palms facing away from you. Adjust your normal pull-up grip by keeping your thumbs under the bar and your wrists kinked forward. Basically, you want the palm of your hand to be directly underneath the bar. This will make your pull-ups a lot harder, but they will target more of your wrists. This requires a ton of forearm strength to pull off -- these exercises are for further training, not beginners. Try a "flexus" pull-up by cupping your hands over the top of a larger bar, touching only with your fingertips and the heel of your hand. Incredibly difficult but worth the effort, this pull-up variation requires you cup your hands on top of a beam or bar so that all of your stabilization comes through the wrist. Start with 1-2, building up until you can do full sets of 8-10. Hold your pull-up position, instead of moving up and down, to build strength. Get into position and hold it, aiming for 45 seconds to a minute at a time. Rest for a little longer than you worked out, (if you held for 45 seconds, rest for a minute or so) and then repeat two more times. Any exercise where you must hold your wrists in position while fighting tension will increase your wrist strength. To make it even harder: Pull the lower half of your torso up so that it is parallel to the ground. Use the grips mentioned above. Consider using ball-grips for pull-ups. These will work your wrist in multiple ways, which is key to avoid only training certain muscles. They hang from the pull-up bar to provide tricky, rounded grips, which will significantly increase forearm, finger, and wrist strength. You could also use hanging "rock holds," used to help train rock climbers. They can be found at many gyms already, even if they don't have a wall. Do fore-arm push-ups against a wall. Stand 5-6 feet away from a wall, leaning towards it so that your hands support you. You'll be diagonally pointed to the wall. Push off your fingers so that the heel of your hand rises off the wall. Then slowly lower them back out and repeat. Perform 15-20 reps. Move further and further away from the wall to increase the challenge. Try wrist pushups. This will hurt if you're not trained, so start on your hands and knees before moving into a plank push-up position. Instead of a normal palms-on-the-floor push-up, curl your hands back towards your feet and rest on the back of your hands. Perform the pushups like normal. Try them as well with the outside edge of your hands. Can you "walk" forward on your feet and the blades of your hands? Try knuckle push-ups. You can also start by resting on your knuckles, with your hands in a fist. This is often a good middle-ground to strengthen your wrists, though you'll need to harden your knuckles first or it will be painful. Try this first on soft surfaces, like carpet or spongy gym floor. Do handstands on solid ground and parallel bars. These full-body holds put a lot of pressure on your wrists, and if you can't keep them stable and strong, you won't be able to hold yourself up. Don't worry if you can't do a full handstand just yet -- you can rest your feet on a wall to keep balance without significantly compromising the wrist workout. Really ready to test yourself? Try a handstand push-up. Simply bend your elbows out to lower yourself to the ground slightly, then push back up to a full handstand. This is much easier with the wall for support. | Try wrist curls as a good "bread and butter" exercise. Use reverse wrist curls to work the other side of your wrists. Try wrist rolls for a challenge. Try two-hand pinches. Use grip-based exercises to indirectly improve wrist strength. Don't forget wrist stretches for improving flexibility. Use both hands for one-handed tasks. Try squeezing a stress ball or palm exercise device. Try a golf wrist exercise. Try doing wrist circles. Try resistance band exercises. Try the rice bucket workout.This unconventional exercise doesn't have much in common with the others on this list, but it's simple to set up and perform and it's quite effective at building wrist and forearm strength. Adjust your normal pull-up grip by keeping your thumbs under the bar and your wrists kinked forward. Try a "flexus" pull-up by cupping your hands over the top of a larger bar, touching only with your fingertips and the heel of your hand. Hold your pull-up position, instead of moving up and down, to build strength. Consider using ball-grips for pull-ups. Do fore-arm push-ups against a wall. Try wrist pushups. Try knuckle push-ups. Do handstands on solid ground and parallel bars. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Clear-Ice | How to Make Clear Ice | To make clear ice, pour filtered, bottled water into a pot on the stove and boil it. Let it cool with the lid still on, then boil again. Once it's cool, pour the water into an ice tray or mold and cover it with plastic wrap. Set it in the freezer until the water is frozen. To make clear ice with a small cooler, place your full ice tray or mold inside and pour water into the bottom of the cooler, filling in around the tray or mold. Set your freezer to between 17 and 25 °F, and place the cooler inside for 24 hours to freeze. | Use pure water. This method looks to get as much of the air and mineral impurities out of the water as possible before freezing, start with already distilled water. Filtered bottled water will work, or any water purified by reverse osmosis. . Boil the water twice Boiling removes air bubbles from the liquid, allowing the water molecules to stick together even harder in the freezer. After boiling the first time, allow the water to cool. Then boil again. Keep the cooling water covered to prevent any dust from collecting on the surface. Pour water into an ice tray or other mold and cover with a plastic wrap to keep out particles. Make sure that you have let the water cool a bit before pouring it in the tray so that it doesn't melt the plastic. If you really want to impress, try making extra-large clear ice cubes and ice spheres. Nothing like drinking a cocktail on one very large rock. Place the ice tray in the freezer. Leave it for few hours to freeze. Take out the tray and gently remove your clear ice cubes. Get a small cooler. Just a regular cooler is fine, like the one you use to keep food and drinks cool for a picnic, but it must be small enough to fit in your freezer. The cooler will insulate your ice cubes, forcing them to freeze slowly from the top down. Place your ice tray, mold or other freezing container at the bottom of the cooler. Do not close the cooler. If you can, use trays that make larger ice cubes, or get a series of small, rectangular plastic or silicone containers. Fill your tray or molds with water. Proponents of this method claim tap water works as well as distilled and boiled water. Pour water into the bottom of the cooler, filling in around your ice tray or molds. This water will seal off your ice cubes, keeping cold air from freezing the sides or bottom. Place the cooler with the lid off in your freezer. Make sure your freezer is not set too cold—17-25°F (-3 -8°C) should do it. Leave the cooler for 24 hours. Take out your cooler and carefully remove the block of ice with your ice tray or molds frozen in it. The ice should have a thin cloudy layer at the top but be clear the rest of the way through. Chip away the ice around your tray or molds and remove your ice cubes. Leave them out for a minute to let the top cloudy later melt off. You now have large, solidly crystal ice cubes. Set your freezer to just below freezing, around 30°F or -1°C. This should be the warmest setting on your freezer. If you don't want your whole freezer that warm, set it as low as you are willing and place ice tray on the top shelf. Fill an ice tray or mold with water and place it in the freezer. Leave it to freeze for 24 hours. The slow freeze should force out any gasses and impurities, leaving you with perfectly clear ice cubes. Fill up a bowl with water then dump a lot of salt into it to prevent it from freezing then put it in the freezer. Be careful not to put too little water in the bowl or the freezing will release enough heat to warm up the salt water to 0°C before the ice cubes finish freezing. The colder the freezer is, the higher the concentration of salt needs to be to prevent the salt water from freezing. You will learn from experience how much salt is needed for the temperature you normally set your freezer to. Leave the salt water in the freezer at least 3 hours to get really cold. Boil some water, then let it cool to eliminate microscopic bubbles. Take the bowl of salt water out of the freezer to prevent the water in the ice cube tray from freezing from the top. Fill up an ice cube tray with water then float it on the salt water in the freezer which is denser than fresh water. The result is bubble free ice that is strong and crack free because it froze without any trapped regions of water ever forming during the process. Put the ice cube tray back in the freezer to prevent melting. Put the bowl of salt water back into the freezer so that you can skip the first step the next time you want to make clear ice cubes. | Use pure water. . Pour water into an ice tray or other mold and cover with a plastic wrap to keep out particles. Place the ice tray in the freezer. Take out the tray and gently remove your clear ice cubes. Get a small cooler. Place your ice tray, mold or other freezing container at the bottom of the cooler. Fill your tray or molds with water. Pour water into the bottom of the cooler, filling in around your ice tray or molds. Place the cooler with the lid off in your freezer. Take out your cooler and carefully remove the block of ice with your ice tray or molds frozen in it. Chip away the ice around your tray or molds and remove your ice cubes. Leave them out for a minute to let the top cloudy later melt off. Set your freezer to just below freezing, around 30°F or -1°C. Fill an ice tray or mold with water and place it in the freezer. Fill up a bowl with water then dump a lot of salt into it to prevent it from freezing then put it in the freezer. Leave the salt water in the freezer at least 3 hours to get really cold. Boil some water, then let it cool to eliminate microscopic bubbles. Take the bowl of salt water out of the freezer to prevent the water in the ice cube tray from freezing from the top. Fill up an ice cube tray with water then float it on the salt water in the freezer which is denser than fresh water. Put the ice cube tray back in the freezer to prevent melting. Put the bowl of salt water back into the freezer so that you can skip the first step the next time you want to make clear ice cubes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Scallions | How to Store Scallions | If you need to store scallions, fill a jar with 2 inches of water, then place the scallions upright in the jar so the roots are in the water. Cover the scallions with a plastic sandwich bag, then place the jar of scallions in the fridge for up to a week. To store scallions for longer than a week, chop the scallions into small pieces and spread them on a small, lined baking sheet, then place the baking sheet into the freezer for 3 hours and transfer the scallions to a freezer-safe plastic bag. Place the scallions in the freezer, where they will stay fresh for up to a year. | Fill a jar with 2 inches (5.1 cm) of water. Use a jar that's large enough around to hold all the scallions you want to store. If you are storing a lot of scallions, you may need to use more than 1 jar. You won't need the lid to the jar, so set it aside somewhere you won't lose it. Place the scallions standing up in the jar of water. The roots of the scallions (the white ends of the stalks) should be down in the water. The other ends of the scallion stalks should be coming up out of the top of the jar. If the water in the jar doesn't come up all the way to the top of the roots, add more water. Cover the scallions in the jar with a plastic sandwich bag. Open the bag and turn it upside down so the open end is facing down. Then, place the bag over the top of the scallions, so the stalks go into the opening in the bag. Pull the bag down all the way so it goes over the sides of the jar. It's OK if the bag doesn't go all the way to the bottom of the jar. Place the jar of scallions in the fridge for up to a week. If you store them any longer, they may lose their crunchy texture. When you're ready to use the scallions, take them out of the fridge and chop the stalks up into small pieces. Soak the scallions in 5 parts water and 1 part white vinegar, then rinse. Washing the scallions before freezing them is especially important if they're fresh from your garden. Fill a large bowl with the water and vinegar and place the scallions in it. Let them soak for a few minutes before you rinse them off in the sink. Chop the scallions into small pieces. That way they'll be ready to use when you take them out of the freezer. Lay the scallions flat on a cutting board and cut off the roots with a sharp knife. The roots are the white parts at the ends of the stalks. Then, bring the knife from one end of the stalks to the other, making swift cuts through the scallions every.25 inches (0.64 cm) or so. Spread the chopped scallions on a small, lined baking sheet. Use a baking sheet that can fit in your freezer. Line it with parchment paper so the scallions don't stick to the metal. Freezing the scallions on a baking sheet first will prevent them from clumping together in the freezer. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for 3 hours. After 3 hours, remove the baking sheet. It's OK if they're not completely frozen yet. Transfer the scallions into a sealable freezer bag. Open the bag and use a spatula to slide the scallion pieces off the baking sheet and into the bag. Once all the scallions are in the bag, use your hands to press excess air out from the bag and then seal it. Write the date on the plastic bag so you know how long the scallions have been frozen for. If you don't have a sealable freezer bag, put the scallions in an empty water bottle with the cap on instead. Freeze the scallions until you’re ready to cook with them. Frozen scallions lose their crunchy texture, so avoid putting them on salads or other recipes without cooking them first. To use your frozen scallions, simply remove them from the freezer bag and add them to the dish you're cooking. Frozen scallions can last up to a year in the freezer. | Fill a jar with 2 inches (5.1 cm) of water. Place the scallions standing up in the jar of water. Cover the scallions in the jar with a plastic sandwich bag. Place the jar of scallions in the fridge for up to a week. Soak the scallions in 5 parts water and 1 part white vinegar, then rinse. Chop the scallions into small pieces. Spread the chopped scallions on a small, lined baking sheet. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for 3 hours. Transfer the scallions into a sealable freezer bag. Freeze the scallions until you’re ready to cook with them. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-CBD-Oil-Dropper | How to Use a CBD Oil Dropper | There's some research that CBD oil can help reduce anxiety, alleviate pain, and help you sleep better. If you're interested in trying CBD oil, one easy way to take it is with a dropper. To use a CBD oil dropper, insert the dropper into your bottle of CBD oil and squeeze the bulb to draw oil into it. Then, hold the dropper above your mouth and squeeze the bulb to administer the drops underneath your tongue. Hold the oil under your tongue for 1 minute before swallowing it so it has time to absorb into your bloodstream. You should start to feel the effects within 20 to 30 minutes. If you're new to taking CBD, start by taking 1 mg of CBD oil for every 10 pounds you weigh, and gradually increase your dose as needed. | Divide the amount of CBD by the size of the package to find the concentration. Look for the total amount of CBD on the oil's package listed in milligrams. Then look for the size of the container, which is usually near the bottom of the package and listed in milliliters. Set up your equation and use a calculator to find out how many milligrams are in a milliliter dose of the oil. For example, if you have a 30-milliliter bottle of oil that contains 750 mg of CBD, your equation would be 750/30 = 25 milligrams of CBD per 1-milliliter serving. Some CBD oils will list the amount of CBD per serving on the bottle as well. Take the lowest dose of CBD oil recommended by the manufacturer. There's no standardized dose for CBD oil, so figuring out the right dose can take a little trial and error. Start by reading the label to see how much they recommend that you take, and take the smallest dose. Then, gradually increase that amount until you find the dose that's effective for you. Keep a log of how dosages affect you to find out what works best. CBD oil affects each person differently, so while a low dose may work for you, another person may need a higher dose to feel the same effects. Keep track of the size of your dose, how you felt after taking it, and any side effects you felt. As you try different dosages, make note of which ones make you feel the best so you can keep taking the same amount. The amount of CBD oil you need may change as you get older since your body processes it differently as you age. Take the dropper out and squeeze the bulb. Unscrew the dropper cap from the bottle and remove it from the CBD oil. Keep the dropper above the surface of the oil and pinch the rubber bulb between your fingers. Any oil or air left inside the dropper will come out from the end so it's completely empty. You can buy CBD oil at health food stores and online. Be sure to research the product you're using to ensure it's safe ad comes from a reputable company. Don't squeeze the bulb while the dropper is still submerged since you'll get air bubbles inside and the dosage may be inaccurate. Submerge the end of the dropper in the CBD oil. Keep pinching the bulb as you put the end of the dropper back in the oil. Make sure to submerge the entire tip of the dropper so you don't get air inside of it. Avoid touching the bottom of the bottle with the dropper since it may not pull the oil as efficiently. Release the bulb to draw the oil into the dropper. While the end of the dropper submerged, let go of the rubber bulb. The pressure change from inside the dropper will pull the CBD oil into the dropper barrel and fill it. Pull the dropper out of the oil once the bulb returns to its original shape to ensure that you don't get air inside of it. Most CBD oil droppers fill up to 1 mL, but it may vary depending on the brand. Make sure to check the package's instructions so you know the correct dosage. Put any excess oil back in the container. Hold the dropper vertically and compare the level of the oil to the measurements printed on the side. If you have the correct dosage, then you don't need to make any adjustments. If you want to take a smaller dose, place the tip of the dropper over the bottle and gently squeeze the bulb to force some of the oil back out. Check the measurement again to see if it's the dosage you want. Some CBD oil droppers don't have measurements printed on the side. Check the package label to see if it lists the size of the dropper so you can use a correct dosage. Place the drops under your tongue for 60–90 seconds. Raise your tongue so it touches the roof of your mouth. Hold the dropper above your mouth, and squeeze the bulb to dispense the oil underneath your tongue. Hold the oil under your tongue for at least 60 seconds before swallowing it. You should start feeling the effects within 20–30 minutes, and they usually last about 4–6 hours. Holding the CBD oil under your tongue allows it to absorb into your body easier so you feel effects more quickly than if you swallowed it immediately. Don't put the dropper in your mouth since you could get bacteria on it and contaminate the rest of the CBD oil. If you don't feel any effects from the CBD oil, you may need a higher dosage. You can also try mixing the oil with other foods or drinks, but it will take 1–2 hours to take effect. | Divide the amount of CBD by the size of the package to find the concentration. Take the lowest dose of CBD oil recommended by the manufacturer. Keep a log of how dosages affect you to find out what works best. Take the dropper out and squeeze the bulb. Submerge the end of the dropper in the CBD oil. Release the bulb to draw the oil into the dropper. Put any excess oil back in the container. Place the drops under your tongue for 60–90 seconds. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Wrap-a-Toga | How to Wrap a Toga | To wrap a toga using just a bedsheet, first fold a bedsheet in half lengthwise so it's as wide as the portion of your body you want to cover. Then, hold one end of the sheet in place over the front of your body with 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) of excess fabric in your hand. Wrap the other end around your back, then around your front, and finally around your back again. Bring the end over your shoulder and tie it to the excess fabric from the other end in a knot on your shoulder. To tie an authentic-looking toga with a bedsheet and a safety pin, fold the sheet in half lengthwise. Then, drape one end over your shoulder so the end of the sheet is in line with the front of your waist. Grab the other end and wrap it around your front. Next, wrap the same end around your back so it's in front of you again. Finally, toss the loose end over the shoulder that the other end is draped over and safety pin it in place. To wrap a strapless toga, start by folding a bedsheet in half crosswise. Then, hold the folded sheet horizontally behind you and wrap it around your chest under each arm. Tuck one of the ends into the top of the sheet like you would with a towel, then use a safety pin to keep everything in place. Tie a rope or belt around your toga to give it an empire waist. | Fold the long side of a bed sheet in half. Find a full, queen or king-sized flat sheet and fold it in half. If you want a longer toga, fold the sheet only a quarter. Drape one end over your shoulder. With the long side of the sheet behind your back, drape one corner over one of your shoulders. Adjust the draped end until it reaches down to your waist. Pull the fabric from your backside around to your front. While you hold the draped end with one hand, grab the sheet from behind your back with your other hand. Gather the fabric once it's pulled to your front-side. Wrap the long part of the sheet around your body. Holding the gathered, long fabric from your backside, wrap it around your body several times. Wrap the sheet all the way around your back, under one arm and across your chest. Toss the end over your shoulder. After you wrap the long end of the sheet around your body several times, toss the final end over the shoulder you started with. Adjust your toga if you need to. Fold, pin or bunch the material until it hits your legs where you want. It may take a few passes until you feel it lays right. Make sure you spend some time smoothing the layers and folds. Secure the final end on top of your shoulder. Use a safety pin or a decorative brooch to hold the tossed, final piece. You can also tie the ends together. Fold the long side of a bed sheet in half. Find a full, queen or king-sized flat sheet and fold it in half. If you want a longer toga, fold the sheet only a quarter. Hold the sheet in front of you to drape one end over your shoulder. Take one end of your sheet and drape a few feet of it, front to back, over one of your shoulders. The draped end should reach down your back to your butt. Wrap the sheet around your body. Holding the long end of the sheet, wrap it diagonally across your chest and under one arm. Continue wrapping across your back, under your other arm and around your chest. Tuck the wrapped end under the draped end. Tuck the piece you've been wrapping (the long end) under the piece you draped over your shoulder. Adjust and secure the sheet. Adjust the height of your toga by folding, pinning or bunching the material until it hits your legs where you want it. It may take a few passes until you feel it lays right. Spend some time smoothing the layers and folds and pin them if you need to. Fold a flat sheet in half. Fold a sheet with the short ends together, until it is the proper length for your height. It should cover from your armpits to your legs. Decide on how much leg you want to show or cover. Wrap the sheet around your chest. Holding the folded sheet horizontally behind you, pull both sides underneath your arms and around to your chest. Wrap under your arms to your backside and to your front-side. Tuck one end into the top. After you bring the wrapped sheet around to your chest, tuck one end into the top of the sheet, like a towel. Make sure the sheet holds snugly around your chest. Adjust and secure the wrap. Spend some time smoothing the layers and folds. Use safety pins to hold your wrapped toga in place. Add a belt to your toga. Tie a belt or rope just under the bust to help secure the wrap and make a flattering empire waist. Fold a sheet in half. While standing, hold a sheet horizontally in front of you. Fold the sheet in half, until it is the proper length. It should cover from your armpits to your legs. Decide on how much leg you want to show or cover. Wrap the sheet around your chest. Holding the folded sheet horizontally in front of you, first wrap one side around your chest and then the other side, much like a towel. Leave 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 m) of one corner loose at the front of your body. Make halter straps. Twist the 4 foot (1.2 m) length a few times to make a rope. Run this twisted sheet over your shoulder and behind your neck. Tie the end of the twist to the sheet running across your chest. Adjust and secure your toga. Spend some time smoothing the layers and folds, then pin the toga onto your tube top. Take extra time to pin the halter securely. Add accessories to your toga. Although optional, this adds interest. For example, tie a belt or rope just under the bust or at the natural waist. Pin a brooch on your chest just under one of the halter straps. Fold a sheet in half. While standing, hold the sheet horizontally in front of you. Fold the ends together, until the sheet is the proper length for your height. It should cover from your waist to your feet. Wrap one end around your waist. Holding the folded sheet horizontally behind you at your waist, wrap a few feet of one end around your front-side to make a skirt and tuck the top of the skirt-end into the sheet, like a towel. Keep the rest behind your back. Wrap the second end around to your frontside. While still holding the sheet at your waist wrap the longer end around to the front. When you cross the front, pin the top of the skirt together at your waist. Continue wrapping up and around your body. Continue this longer end all the way around your body, across the front of your waist, under your arm, and across your the back. Then back to the front again, under your arm. Toss the end over one shoulder. Once the longer end is at the front again, cross over your chest and over the opposite shoulder. The end will drape over your shoulder and rest on your back. If you have a rope, use it to wrap around the small of your back to secure the loose end hanging in the back. | Fold the long side of a bed sheet in half. Drape one end over your shoulder. Pull the fabric from your backside around to your front. Wrap the long part of the sheet around your body. Toss the end over your shoulder. Adjust your toga if you need to. Secure the final end on top of your shoulder. Fold the long side of a bed sheet in half. Hold the sheet in front of you to drape one end over your shoulder. Wrap the sheet around your body. Tuck the wrapped end under the draped end. Adjust and secure the sheet. Fold a flat sheet in half. Wrap the sheet around your chest. Tuck one end into the top. Adjust and secure the wrap. Add a belt to your toga. Fold a sheet in half. Wrap the sheet around your chest. Make halter straps. Adjust and secure your toga. Add accessories to your toga. Fold a sheet in half. Wrap one end around your waist. Wrap the second end around to your frontside. Continue wrapping up and around your body. Toss the end over one shoulder. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Dogs-out-of-Flower-Beds | How to Keep Dogs out of Flower Beds | To keep dogs out of your flower beds, try sprinkling red pepper flakes or vinegar around the edges of them, which will make them smell unpleasant to dogs. Or, you can plant tall or thorny plants around your flower beds, like rose bushes, so dogs can't get into them. Alternatively, as a last resort, you can fence in your flower beds to keep dogs out. | Fence in your flower beds. This should send a message to your dog, or other dogs in the area, that he or she is not allowed in your garden. Ensure that the fence is sturdy and tall enough so a dog can't simply push it over or jump over it. Many times dogs simply wander into flower beds because they are just areas that are easily accessible. Simply making access more difficult with a short fence will deter many dogs from entering. Consider growing barrier plants. Tall, thorny, or especially fragrant plants can be a great deterrent for dogs. Planting a row of thorny roses or other prickly plants along the edge of your flower bed will make the area much more unappealing to a dog looking for a place to dig or lounge around. Make your flower beds unappealing by adding tastes and smells that dogs don't like. Dust the edges of your flower beds with red pepper powder or other pungent spices. You could also sprinkle strong smelling liquids, such as vinegar, around the edges of your beds. Make sure that whatever you use as a deterrent is unpleasant for a dog but it not toxic to it. The goal should be to deter dogs from entering your beds, not to injure them. Don't use commercial repellents made to repel deer or rabbits. Most of these products contain coyote urine, which keeps deer and rabbits at bay but attracts the interest of dogs. Locate flower beds in inaccessible areas. Place your prized flowers that are not in the path of neighborhood animals. Backyards or side yards are less likely to have unwanted visitors than the front of a yard near a sidewalk or street. You shouldn't have to limit what and where you plant necessarily, but use common sense when choosing the right spot for a delicate and special flower specimen. Switch to container gardening if your flowers are getting repeatedly trampled. Dogs are less likely to get into pots or raised beds, as access it inherently more limited than flat areas of a yard. Having raised beds will not guarantee that your pooch won't go tromping through it but it will make the occurrence less likely. Start training your dog at a young age. Puppies are ripe for training and most thrive under a kind and productive training system. Even puppies that are less than a few months old can learn commands successfully. Let your dog know that the flower beds are off limits as soon as you can. It is easier to let a dog know it can't go somewhere before it ever does, versus teaching it after it has enjoyed the area already. While training your dog to stay in designated areas, it's a good idea not to leave it alone with the temptation and ability to break the rules. This is basically just setting your pooch up for failure. Have a designated area where your dog can play and roam. Make sure the area is inviting and fun for the dog. Have some toys and enough space to play, so that the pup doesn't need to look for other areas to explore. You can also designate an area where your dog can dig, if that is what they are doing in your flower beds. Make your dog's digging area appealing to them. Encourage them to play there, letting them tear up the area as much as they like. Prevent your dog from digging in the soil by placing chicken wire, large rocks, or a plastic membrane over the earth. Don't scold your dog when he or she tries to enter the flower beds. Scolding the dog could teach them to go into the flower bed for attention. The owner needs to be more subtle, such as distracting the dog and then rewarding the dog for the good behavior. Try a commercial dog repellant. When the dog isn't there, you can either spray it around the bed. Don't spray directly at the dog. It may not be clear to the dog why it is being sprayed and what behavior you would like it to stop in response to the spraying. Spraying repellant when the dog is there is going to teach the dog to avoid you, rather than the flower bed. Be consistent. You need to be consistent with your disapproval, never letting the dog wander into the flower beds without facing negative consequences. Also be consistent with your praise when a dog follows your command. Give it positive reinforcement with treats if need be. This will give your dog a good reason to do as you ask. Hang in there! Keeping your dogs out of your flower beds will require persistence. No dog will get the message that you don't want him or her in your flowers right away. Just try to make it as clear and consistent as possible. Above all, keep playing with your dogs and let them know you love them, even if they do dig up your prized petunias once in a while. | Fence in your flower beds. Consider growing barrier plants. Make your flower beds unappealing by adding tastes and smells that dogs don't like. Locate flower beds in inaccessible areas. Switch to container gardening if your flowers are getting repeatedly trampled. Start training your dog at a young age. Let your dog know that the flower beds are off limits as soon as you can. Have a designated area where your dog can play and roam. Don't scold your dog when he or she tries to enter the flower beds. Try a commercial dog repellant. Be consistent. Hang in there! |
https://www.wikihow.com/Drink-Brandy | How to Drink Brandy | To drink brandy, try it neat, or with no ice or mixer, if you're drinking a good quality aged brandy. You can also carefully heat the brandy up over an open flame to enhance its flavor and aroma. If you have a younger or less expensive brandy, use it to make cocktails. For example, you could make a metropolitan by mixing brandy, vermouth, simple syrup, and bitters. You could also try making a classic sidecar cocktail using brandy, triple sec, and lemon juice. | Learn how brandy is made. Brandy is any distilled spirit made from fruit juice. The fruit is crushed to get just the juice and then the juice is fermented to make fruit wine. After that, the fruit wine is distilled to produce brandy. The brandy is then usually aged in wooden barrels, although some brandies are not aged. Brandy is made from grapes but there are brandies made from other fruits such as apple, peach, plum and many others. When brandy is made from another fruit, the fruit name is said first before the word “brandy.” For example, if made from apples, it would be called apple brandy. Brandies get their dark color from aging in barrels. Un-aged brandies will not have this caramel color but colors will often be added to create the same look. Pomace brandy is made a bit differently. Instead of just fermenting the grape juice, fermentation and distillation to make pomace brandy will include the skins, stems and seeds of the grapes. Pomace brandy is also known as marc (English and French) and grappa (Italian). Get an overview of the history of brandy. The name "brandy" originates from the Dutch "brandewijn," or "burnt wine," which evokes the warm, glowing feeling from the first sip of a fine brandy. Brandy has been made since the 12th Century but was originally only made by apothecaries and doctors and used as a medicine. French authorities only allowed winemakers to begin distillation in the 16th century. The French brandy industry grew slowly until the Dutch began importing brandy for consumption and for export to other European countries. It was cheaper to ship in terms of the amount of alcohol than wine, and so was economically viable for merchants. The Dutch invested in building distilleries in the French winemaking areas of the Loire, Bordeaux and Charente. Charente became the most lucrative area for brandy production and is the location of the town called Cognac. Learn that there are different types of brandies with different rating systems depending on age. Popular types include Armagnac, Cognac, American brandy, pisco, apple brandy, eaux de vie and Brandy de Jerez. Brandies are categorized by age, according to different systems for different types of brandy. Learn the different aging systems. Brandy is processed in a slow and gentle manner to bring out all its flavors and is traditionally aged in oak barrels. There are different aging systems and categorizations for different kinds of brandy. General aging labels can include AC, VS (Very Special), VSOP (Very Special Old Pale), XO (Extra Old), Hors d'age and vintage but these vary greatly for different types of brandy. VS (Very Special) has been aged a minimum of two years. These are best used for mixing as opposed to drinking neat. VSOP (Very Special Old Pale) brandy is usually between 4 and a half to six years old. XO (Extra Old) brandy are usually six and a half years old or more. Hors d'age brandies are too old to determine the age of for some reason or another. For some brandies these labels are regulated while for others they are not. Consider trying Armagnac. Armagnac is a grape brandy named for the region of Armagnac in the southwest of France. It is made from a blend of Colombard and Ugni Blanc grapes and distilled once in column stills. Then it is aged for at least two years in French oak, resulting in a more rustic brandy than Cognac. After aging different aged brandies are blended to make a consistent product. 3-star or VS (Very Special) brandy has a youngest brandy in the blend that has aged at least two years in oak. VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) brandy is when the youngest brandy in the blend has aged at least four years in oak, although many of these brandies are actually much older. Napoleon or XO (Extra Old) brandy is when the youngest brandy in the blend has aged at least six years in oak. Hors d'age brandy is when the youngest brandy in the blend has aged at least ten years. If the Armagnac has an age on the label it means that the youngest brandy in the bottle is that age. There are also vintage Armagnacs that are at least ten years old and the year of harvest will be displayed on the bottle. These age categories only apply to Armagnac; Cognacs and other brandies will have different meanings for these categories. Consider trying Cognac. Cognac is a grape brandy named for the town of France from which it originates and made from a blend of specific grapes including Ugni Blanc. It has to be distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged in French oak barrels for at least two years. 3-star or VS (Very Special) brandy is when the youngest brandy in the blend has aged at least two years in oak. VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) brandy is when the youngest brandy in the blend has aged at least four years, although most brandies in this class are actually much older. Napoleon, XO (Extra Old), Extra or Hors d'age brandy is when the youngest brandy in the blend has aged at least six years in oak. On average, these brandies are usually actually 20 years old or more. Some Cognacs age 40-50 years in oak. Consider trying American brandy. American brandy includes many different brands and does not have much legal regulation. Any age categorizing such as VS, VSOP and XO are not legally controlled and you should be aware of this when buying. There are only two U.S. regulations that affect the consumer in terms of the brandy. By law if the brandy has not been aged for two years, it must have the word “immature” on its label. Additionally by law, if it is not made from grapes then it must say the fruit from which it was made. Since classifications are not regulated by law, different brands have different ages for their classifications and their aging processes may not be very long. Check the websites of the distillers for more information on particular varieties and ages. There are no legal requirements dictating which distillation techniques should be used. Consider trying pisco brandy. Pisco is an un-aged grape brandy made in Peru and Chile. Because it is un-aged it is clear in color. There is currently an argument between Peru and Chile over who should be allowed to produce pisco and if it should be restricted to certain regions. Consider trying apple brandy. Apple brandy is made using apples and comes from either America, where it is called the applejack , or France, where it is called Calvados. It is very versatile and can be used in a range of cocktails. The American version, applejack, is very bright and fruity. The French version, Calvados, is more nuanced, subtle and layered in flavor. Consider trying eaux de vie. Eaux de vie are un-aged brandies made from fruits other than grapes such as raspberries, pears, plums, cherries as well as others. They are usually clear because they are un-aged. In Germany eaux de vie is called "Schnapps" but this is not at all the same thing as American schnapps. Consider trying Brandy de Jerez. Brandy de Jerez originates from the Andalusia region in Spain and has its own prescribed production method in which it is only distilled once in copper stills. It is then aged in American oak barrels. Brandy de Jerez Solera is the youngest and fruitiest and has a minimum average age of 1 year. Brandy de Jerez Solera Reserva has a minimum average age of 3 years. Brandy de Jerez Solera Gran Reserva is the oldest of the brandies with a minimum average age of 10 years. Choose your brandy by type and then age when purchasing. The type can be one of those discussed or it can simply say “brandy”. If it does not have a particular type then look for the country of importation and the source used (for example, grapes, fruit or pomace). Choose by age after you have chosen by type. Remember that general age categories for brandy are very variable and differ according to the type. Learn what neat means. Drinking brandy “neat” means that you are drinking it by itself with no ice or mixer. You taste only the brandy and nothing else, allowing you to fully experience the flavor. Ice will melt and water down the brandy, ruining the flavor. Drink brandy neat when you have a good quality aged brandy. The best brandies should be savored on their own. This will help you enjoy the flavor fully, heightening your experience and allowing you to truly get a taste of the best brandy experience. Get a brandy snifter. A brandy snifter or brandy balloon is a short glass with a wide base whose sides taper in at the top. It will have a short stem and come in many sizes, although no more than 2 ounces (60 ml) will usually be served at a time. These glasses are perfect for drinking brandy because they concentrate the subtle aromas at the top of the glass when nosing or smelling them. A thoroughly clean snifter that has been air-dried prevents other tastes from interfering with that of the brandy. Serve immediately. Brandies do not need to breathe like wine does. If you let it sit for too long then some of the volatile alcohols will evaporate. This will lose some of the character of the brandy. Warm up the glass in your hand. Many connoisseurs prefer to warm up the brandy because gentle heat enhances the flavor and aroma. The best way to do this is to simply hold the glass in your hand to gently warm it up. The wide base of the glass makes it easy to warm in your hand. You also can warm the glass by pouring warm water in it and then pouring out before filling with your brandy. Another way to warm the brandy is to carefully heat the glass over an open flame. Be careful not to overheat! Overheating can cause the alcohol to evaporate and ruin the bouquet and flavor. Do not swill the glass because you can lose some of the subtle aromas in the brandy. Smell the brandy while holding the glass at chest height. Nosing (smelling through your nose) the brandy at this distance will allow you to smell the floral notes and introduces the delicate aromas to your nose. This prevents your senses from being overwhelmed when tasting. Bring the glass to your chin and smell through your nose again. Raise the snifter to chin height and take a deep breath through your nose. Nosing at this height will let you smell the dried fruit aromas in the brandy. Raise the snifter to directly under your nose and smell through both your mouth and nose. When you bring the snifter up to your nose you can smell the spice aromas in the brandy. This nosing will be much more complex than the previous two. Take a very small sip. Your first sip should simply wet your lips so that it does not overpower you. The first sip should be the smallest possible sip and will bring the flavor into your mouth. If you become overpowered it may put you off tasting the brandy again. Take more sips, starting small and working your way up to bigger sips. These are meant to acclimatize your mouth to the flavor. Only once your taste buds are acclimatized can you fully appreciate the taste of the brandy. Drinking brandy is as much about the aroma as it is about the taste so make sure you continue to appreciate the aroma as you sip the brandy. Start young and move older if you are tasting multiple brandies. If you are tasting a number of brandies then you should start with the youngest first. Always leave a small amount of each to come back to later- you will be surprised how much the first taste can change after your nose and palate have warmed up to the brandies. Try not to look at the type and cost of the brandy if you are tasting a number of brandies. Both type and price can influence the way you taste a brandy so it is best to cover this information when tasting to really discover the flavors that you like. This can help you learn more about yourself as well. You can mark the glasses on the bottom somehow before pouring them. Then mix the glasses up before drinking so that you do not know which is which. Drink brandy in mixed drinks when you have a younger and less expensive brandy. For example, if you have a VS brandy or another unnamed brandy then you can mix these into cocktails. Brandy is part of the wine family so it does not always work well with certain sodas and tonics but there are many good-tasting mixed drinks. Although Cognac is an aged, more expensive brandy, it is commonly used in mixed drinks as well. Consider trying a Sidecar cocktail. The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that the Hôtel Ritz in Paris, France claims to have invented in the early 1900s. You will need 1.5 ounces (45 ml) Cognac, 1 ounce (30 ml) Cointreau or triple sec,.5 ounce (15 ml) fresh lemon juice, a lemon twist for garnish and an optionally sugar for rimming. Rim a chilled martini glass with sugar. A martini glass is shaped like an upside down triangle on a long stem. Chill the glass in the freezer and then dip the top rim in a plate of sugar to rim it. Pour the ingredients (except the lemon twist) into a cocktail shaker with a few ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain to remove the ice cubes and pour into the glass. Garnish with the lemon twist. You can make the lemon twist by peeling off a thin strip of the rind around the lemon in one full circle. You can alter the ratio of Cognac, Cointreau and lemon juice a little bit to find the perfect flavor for you. Consider trying a Metropolitan. A Metropolitan is a classic cocktail whose first recipe is dated 1900. You will need 1.5 (45 ml) ounces brandy, 1 ounce (30 ml) sweet vermouth,.5 tsp simple syrup and 2 dashes Angostura bitters. Make a simple syrup by combining 1 cup water with 1 cup superfine sugar in a jar. Seal the jar and shake until the sugar is completely dissolved. Keep the jar in the refrigerator. Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and shake well. Strain into a chilled martini glass. A martini glass has a long stem with a cup shaped like an upside-down triangle. Consider trying a Gentleman’s Hot Toddy. A Hot Toddy is a classic hot drink that has often been historically used as medicine. It can be made with a variety of spirits including brandy and apple brandy. You will require 1 ounce (30 ml) brandy or apple brandy, 1 Tbsp. honey, ¼ lemon, 1 cup water, a pinch of cloves, a pinch of nutmeg and 2 cinnamon sticks. Coat the bottom of a mug or Irish coffee glass with honey and then add the brandy or apple brandy and the juice of the ¼ lemon. Boil the water in a kettle or pot and pour into the glass. Stir the mix and add the cloves and cinnamon sticks. Let it sit for 5 minutes and then add nutmeg and enjoy! You can alter the ratios of brandy to water. If you are using apple brandy, you may choose to increase the amount of the apple brandy for extra flavor. Consider trying a Pisco Sour. The Pisco Sour is the most popular way of consuming pisco and is the signature drink of Peru and also very popular in Chile. You will need 3 ounces (95 ml) pisco, 1 ounce (30 ml) fresh squeezed lime juice, ¾ ounce (22 ml) simple syrup, 1 fresh egg white and 1 dash Angostura or Amargo (if you can find it) bitters. Make a simple syrup by combining 1 cup water with 1 cup superfine sugar in a jar. Seal the jar and shake until the sugar is completely dissolved. Keep the jar in the refrigerator. Combine the pisco, lime, simple syrup and egg white in a cocktail shaker without ice and shake hard until the egg white is foamy, about 10 seconds. Add ice and then shake very hard until it is well-chilled, again about 10 seconds. Strain the ice out and pour in a chilled pisco sour glass. A pisco sour glass is relatively small and shaped a bit like a normal shot glass, except the base is thinner and the edges spread out a bit more at the top. Add the dash of bitters on top of the egg white foam. Consider trying the Jack Rose. The Jack Rose is a classic cocktail that was very popular in the 1920s that uses applejack, the American type of apple brandy. You will need 2 ounces (60 ml) applejack, 1 ounce (30 ml) lime juice and.5 ounce (15 ml) grenadine. True American applejack is hard to find but if you can get hold of it, try this cocktail. Pour the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. This glass will have a long stem with a cup that is shaped like an upside down triangle. Consider trying the Prescription Julep. This drink first appeared in print in 1857 and combines cognac and rye whiskey for a soothing refresher perfect for summer. You will need 1.5 ounces (45 ml) VSOP cognac or another good brandy,.5 ounce (15 ml) rye whiskey, 2 tsp sugar dissolved in.5 ounce (15 ml) water and 2 sprigs fresh mint. Place the sugar and water in a tall glass or julep cup (traditional silver cup) and mix until sugar dissolves. Add mint leaves into the glass and gently press to release the flavorful oil. Do not smash up the mint or else you will release bitterness from the leaves. Add the brandy and rye whiskey to the glass and stir to combine. Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir with a long spoon until the glass begins to get frost on the sides. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and serve with a straw. | Learn how brandy is made. Get an overview of the history of brandy. Learn that there are different types of brandies with different rating systems depending on age. Learn the different aging systems. Consider trying Armagnac. Consider trying Cognac. Consider trying American brandy. Consider trying pisco brandy. Consider trying apple brandy. Consider trying eaux de vie. Consider trying Brandy de Jerez. Choose your brandy by type and then age when purchasing. Learn what neat means. Drink brandy neat when you have a good quality aged brandy. Get a brandy snifter. Serve immediately. Warm up the glass in your hand. Smell the brandy while holding the glass at chest height. Bring the glass to your chin and smell through your nose again. Raise the snifter to directly under your nose and smell through both your mouth and nose. Take a very small sip. Take more sips, starting small and working your way up to bigger sips. Start young and move older if you are tasting multiple brandies. Try not to look at the type and cost of the brandy if you are tasting a number of brandies. Drink brandy in mixed drinks when you have a younger and less expensive brandy. Consider trying a Sidecar cocktail. Consider trying a Metropolitan. Consider trying a Gentleman’s Hot Toddy. Consider trying a Pisco Sour. Consider trying the Jack Rose. Consider trying the Prescription Julep. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Pinworms-in-Mice | How to Treat Pinworms in Mice | To treat a pinworm infection in your mouse, take it to the vet, even if it doesn't look very sick. Your vet will prescribe an anthelmintic, which is a medication that kills intestinal worms. The medication will either be a liquid in a syringe or a medicated food to feed to your mouse. Since the medication only kills the adult worms inside your mouse, you will also need to clean your mouse's cage to remove the pinworm eggs and prevent another infection. Move your mouse to a separate cage, and remove all of the bedding, litter, and all cage accessories. Use hot and soapy water and a scrub brush to clean the cage, and then spray a bleach solution throughout the cage to sanitize it. To clean and sanitize the cage accessories, get 3 buckets and fill one with hot, soapy water, the second with hot water, and the third with a cold bleach solution. Soak the items for 30 seconds in each bucket. | Take your mouse to your vet. A pinworm infection requires veterinary treatment, even if your mouse doesn't look very sick. Your vet will prescribe an anthelmintic, which is a medication that kills intestinal worms. Ivermectin and fenbendazole are the main anthelmintics used to treat pinworms in mice. Before prescribing the medication, your vet will confirm that your mouse has pinworms. To identify pinworms, your vet can examine a liquid solution of your mouse's feces ('fecal float') with a microscope. They can also stick a piece of clear tape to your mouse's rear end and examine the tape with a microscope. Two species of pinworms affect mice. They are treated in the same way. Give your mouse oral ivermectin. If your vet prescribes ivermectin, you will give your mouse 2 treatments by mouth, 10 days apart: give your mouse the first treatment, then give the second one 10 days later. You could also add ivermectin to your mouse's drinking water, but this would require changing the water every day, which may be time consuming. Oral ivermectin will be a liquid solution that you will administer with a syringe ( without the needle). To give your mouse oral ivermectin, pick up your mouse by the base of its tail and place it in the palm of your hand, with its back against your palm. Gently scruff your mouse by the neck, place the syringe of ivermectin in the mouth, and slowly dispense the medication. Ivermectin can be applied directly to your mouse's anal region with a spray bottle. This may be a little tricky to perform, though, so your vet will probably prescribe the oral formulation. Treat your mouse with fenbendazole. Medicated diets containing fenbendazole can also treat pinworms. If your vet recommends the therapeutic diet, you would feed it in a 'one week on, one week off' schedule for as long as your vet prescribes. During the off weeks, you would feed your mouse its regular diet. Purchase the diet through your vet. Monitor your mouse for side effects. Ivermectin can cause serious neurologic problems. It can cross the 'blood brain barrier,' which is in place to prevent certain drugs from entering the brain. If ivermectin enters the brain, it can cause such side effects as coma, depression, and sudden death. If your mouse seems really sad (no energy, not eating much, not playful) or looks unconscious, tell your vet right away. Ivermectin side effects are more common in newborn mice. Fenbendazole usually does not cause serious side effects in mice. Clean the cage regularly. Pinworm medication will kill the adult worms inside your mouse, but not the eggs. The eggs can actually go airborne, so they could be anywhere in your mouse's cage, even though you won't be able to see them. Therefore, cleaning your mouse's cage is a very important aspect of pinworm treatment in mice. Clean the cage at least once a week. Male mice leave their scents in their cages. Frequent cleaning would remove that scent and cause the mice to 'mark' the cage even more, making the cage quite smelly. If you have a male mouse, prevent excessive marking by rotating when you replace the bedding and litter. Take everything out of the cage. First, move your mouse to a separate cage by gently picking it up by the base of its tail and sliding your other hand under its body. Slowly lower your mouse into the other cage. Next, remove the bedding and litter and take out all cage accessories (toys, food bowl, water bottle). Clean and sanitize the inside of the cage. Cleaning the cage will remove the dirt and sanitizing will kill the pinworm eggs. Use hot and soapy water, along with a sponge or scrub brush, to clean the cage. Rinse out all of the soap before sanitizing. To sanitize, spray a bleach solution (1/2 tablespoon bleach/1 gallon water) throughout the cage. Let the bleach solution dry on its own—do not rinse it off. Unfortunately, pinworm eggs are resistant to many types of disinfectants. However, bleach is recommended for killing pinworm eggs. Clean and sanitize the cage accessories. Use 3 buckets to clean and sanitize the cage accessories. Fill the first bucket with hot, soapy water and clean the accessories. Fill the second bucket with hot water to rinse off the accessories. Fill the third bucket with a cold bleach solution (1/2 tablespoon bleach/1 gallon water) and let the accessories soak for about 30 seconds. Let the items air dry before putting them back in the cage. A toothbrush may help clean the edges or hard-to-reach spots of the accessories. | Take your mouse to your vet. Give your mouse oral ivermectin. Treat your mouse with fenbendazole. Monitor your mouse for side effects. Clean the cage regularly. Take everything out of the cage. Clean and sanitize the inside of the cage. Clean and sanitize the cage accessories. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player | How to Be a Pro Basketball Player | If you want to be a pro basketball player, you first need to master your rudimentary skills, like dribbling and shooting. While you practice, work on techniques that you already know while adding new drills that will help you excel. To start your career, get involved with sports at your school to develop team skills and get noticed by coaches. Keep learning whether you're on or off the court. | Learn all the game's rules like the back of your hand. The better you know the sport, the better you'll be able to play, knowing what to expect and how to work on potential problems. You can ask just about anyone who knows the sport, but also check websites, ask coaches, and join a team. Play, play, and play some more until it becomes a part of you. Understand that basketball is both a physical and mental sport. They are both extremely important. If you lack in one area, focus on trying to improve in that area without forgetting the other. For example, if you need to work on your dribbling, but just finished working on your dribble, dribble up to the hoop from half-court, and shoot a layup. Get yourself in the best physical shape possible. Get down to a gym and start working out. Lesser players can beat the greatest talent if they can outrun and outlast their opponent. Michael Jordan is quoted to have said that the best players are good scorers, good defensive players, and good team players. To be all three, you've got to be in great shape. Here are some exercises to help you out: Push-ups. Lots of push-ups and in different varieties, like fingertip push-ups. You will be amazed at how much better you can palm the ball if you have strong fingers. Even if you think you don't have large enough hands to palm the ball, it can be done if you have stronger fingers. Core workouts. Work on your core strength with abdominal crunches, leg lifts, planks, lower back extensions, etc. If you have a strong core you will be able to take a hit and still finish strong at the rim. Jump rope. Seems like a sissy activity, but it works! Jump rope as fast, long, and hard as you can. The better you can do this, the faster footwork you can have on the court. Jumping. Increase your vertical leap. If you're fast, agile, and can jump, you can get rebounds even over a taller player. Most super-tall guys don't put all their effort into rebounds since they don't have to. You can beat them if you work at it. Dribble like a madman. If you ever find yourself having to concentrate or focus on your dribbling, then you're not good enough to go pro. You should be able to feel where the ball is at all times, have perfect control over it, and be able to do anything you can with it at any moment Spend tons of time dribbling the basketball. Try dribbling up and down the court or wherever you're practicing. Push yourself to dribble faster, lower, harder, and even more out of control. You'll improve your mobility on the court and your ability to play with the best of them. Many coaches will tell you to dribble using only your fingertips. However, look at basketball players like Chris Paul, who use their palms as well. You may find that when you are doing more advanced moves in games and at practice, it will be a lot easier to do them if you disregard the information about avoiding palm use. Work on your shooting skills. Take a look at the best shooters in the game and model their actions. Hold your right hand on the back of the ball, while the left is on the side guiding it. Try practicing by lying down and shooting your basketball straight into the air, so it comes back down onto your hand. You can do this for hours, while listening to music, or just not sleeping. The ball should feel like part of your arm, extending into the hoop. Shoot free-throws until you can do it in your sleep. There is no reason you should miss any shot that is undefended. Practice shooting when you're cold and when you're totally winded. After running lines and being so tired you can't see straight, that's the perfect time to shoot free-throws. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-4Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-4Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-4Bullet1.jpg\/aid1998771-v4-728px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-4Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Use "BEEF" when shooting. This strange little acronym is everything that should be on your mind when shooting. Here are the details: B=Balance. Make sure you are balanced before you shoot. E=Eyes. Keep your eyes on the basket while you shoot. E=Elbow. Keep your elbow in towards your body when you shoot. F=Follow Through. Make sure you follow through with your shot; your shooting hand should look like you are about to reach into a cookie jar. Even though you may not be able to have elbow strength, always try. Add "C" to your "BEEF. " C stands for concentration and awareness. This is the most important part of shooting. Focus on where the ball is going, not paying "overt" attention to who's around you or whether you should shoot/pass instead. Awareness is somewhat "covert and tricky" – it is called "unconscious" playing (as if flying on your internal automatic pilot). With this, you know about other players and the options and plays, but are not showing concern outwardly or consciously when "hearing steps." Options become instinct by practicing and applying it. Avoid having too much rear-view-mirror thinking or paranoia about what is behind you or in your blind spots. You may need to do some angling, not dribbling exactly straight, and then develop your peripheral vision to watch those areas without focusing on them consciously. Peripheral vision is learned and expanded/extended by using it as with any skill/talent that needs to be automatic in its application. Learn to shoot with one hand. To shoot with one-handedly correctly, first make sure you flex your legs for power and your hands for touch and put spin on the ball ("English"). Line your hands up with the black lines on the ball. Use the pads of your fingers and hold the ball in the center with your writing hand only. Make sure you can see light through all of your fingers. This is your ideal position. "Touch" includes shooting/passing harder or softer depending on the situation and on which side of the basket you are shooting/passing because of ball control issues. "Flex" entails not being stiff/rigid or over-extended. Practice spinning the ball and using your non-dominant hand. Place your off hand on the side of the ball, realizing that the hand on the side may put some different control and English on the ball. Then shoot (with your CBEEF) making sure most of the force is coming from your shooting/writing hand. If English (or spin) is new to you, it will require practice and experimenting to see how it affects your shots "rimming-out" and checking your banking shots. This effect will depend upon your touch and which side of the basket you happen to shoot. Practice spin on both sides of the basket. If you are at least somewhat ambidextrous (using either hand), practice both hands as the power vis-a-vis the "off hand" for offside shooting (on the non-writing-hand side of the basket). Do drills to improve every aspect of your game. All of the practice you can get will help you become the best player you can be. Practice does not make perfect, but perfect practice makes perfect. Here are some drills you can start with: The Superman Drill. If you have a court this works better, if not you'll have to guesstimate the distances. On a court, start on one baseline (underneath a basket) and run to the first perpendicular line (the nearest free throw line), then drop and do 5 pushups. After that, stand and run back to the original baseline, then run to the next perpendicular line (the 3/4 court line). Drop and do 10 push ups and continue on that same idea for every line on the court, back and forth, until you reach the first line again. Again, it is best to shoot at least 10 free throws after the drill while you are tired. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet1.jpg\/aid1998771-v4-728px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} The Kill Drill. This is a full court, down and back timed drill. If you're really out of shape, start with 4-6 "down and backs" in 1 minute 8 seconds (starting at 1 baseline running to the other and returning to the original). Sounds like a sufficient amount of time until you run the 160 feet (48.8 m). After you build up some stamina, try 13 down and backs in 68 seconds. Again, shoot at least 10 free throws while fatigued. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet2.jpg\/aid1998771-v4-728px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} The Buddy Drill. Have a buddy grab a basketball and start on a corner of one baseline, with you guarding him. If you feel comfortable, keep your hands behind your back. Have him dribble diagonally down the court with you forcing him to change directions as he dribbles down the court. You'll need to learn how to "slide step" down the court to stay ahead and direct the person with the ball. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet3.jpg\/aid1998771-v4-728px-Be-a-Pro-Basketball-Player-Step-9Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Always be a confident team player. Look for the open man, and pass the ball, even if you want to make a shot. The better your team does, the better you do. you not only have to be a shooter, but a team player as well. Don't hog the ball; eventually your other teammates and coaches will get annoyed and you'll be labeled as a selfish player, risking it all for the bench. And whatever you do, don't lose your confidence. If you're a shooter, shoot until you get your touch or rhythm! If you're playing the big D, clear your mind until you can anticipate movement. Eat a protein and carbohydrate-rich meal, take a breather, and get back at it if you're feeling discouraged. No path to greatness has ever been easy. Start as young as possible playing on teams and attending camps. There are babies who are practically born with a basketball in their hands, and these are the kids that grow up to be the pros. It's best to start as young as possible to get in as much experience as you can. Start young and basketball will be flowing through your veins. Being on the school and community team is great, but consider attending basketball camps like Five Star Basketball Camp, National Basketball Academy, and Elite Hoops Basketball Camp. For a few hundred dollars each season, you'll work with the best of the best in your region and start honing higher level skills. Be a star on your high school team. In order to get noticed for the college level (your next step), you need to stick out like a speck of gold on your high school's basketball team. This doesn't mean being a ball hog – in fact, not being a team player is something that'll work against you. It simply means taking risks, going for the shot, feeding off your teammates' strengths, and making it happen. In addition to being a great player, you've also got to be coachable and easy to work with, too. If you're keeping others from playing their best, you won't get recruited. And if you have weaknesses your coach is trying to improve but your attitude keeps you from listening, you won't get recruited. Work on your skills as a player, but also work on your skills as a team member and someone who's still learning. Keep your grades up. If you're the best basketball player that ever walked this earth you may be able to get away with terrible grades, but most colleges are looking for a player who can also manage themselves academically, too. You don't have to have straight A's, but you need to prove that you can handle going to school and playing a sport at the same time. This goes for high school and college. It's your academics that are allowing you to play. And the higher your grades, the better your chances of getting a basketball scholarship (or any scholarship, for that matter). You'll be a role model and a model student that any college would want to recruit. Up your basketball IQ. When coaches talk about the players that catch their eye, it's not just their sweet three-pointer or their ability to dribble the ball like it's barely touching the floor. They're also looking for players with a high basketball IQ; that is, not only are they good at the game, but they understand at a very intricate level how it works. They're constantly thinking of all the ways to make the next shot, how to overcome obstacles, and they have poise and keep to a rhythmic, calm tempo. There's much more to basketball than just basketball. Part of a high basketball IQ is also about never "getting out of the game." Even if the ref calls a shot you disagree with, you're back on the floor immediately in the zone for the next play. A player with a high basketball IQ handles every obstacle with dignity and respects the others on the court at all times. Get noticed for a scholarship. If you're incredibly lucky, scouts may come to you. If they don't, you have two basic options: Talk to your coach. Does he have any connections when it comes to colleges? Does he think you're scout material? What do you have to do to get noticed? Send out letters to coaches at your desired schools. Express your interest in their program, provide why you are interested and why you think you'd e a good asset to their program. Give them a highlight tape and invite them to come watch you play. Be sure to include your contact information for further discussion. Start playing at the college level. Players very, very, very, very, very rarely go straight from high school to the NBA. Most have some college or finish their 4 years. It's during this time that you'll play against a higher-caliber opponent and truly hone your skills under pressure. It's up to you during this time whether you want to finish out college or try to go pro before your academic career is up. Which in college, it's a good idea to coach in the off-season, keep attending camps, and always, always, always keep playing and staying in shape. Even though the season doesn't last all year long, if you're taking this seriously, yours does. Consider getting an agent. If you're really, really good and you've been seriously molded for professional play, consider getting an agent. They have the connections you need to get your name noticed and potentially be a part of next year's draft. They'll get your name out there and, hopefully, money in your pocket. That being said, if you get an agent during your college career, you lose your college eligibility – even if you don't get drafted. Consider this very carefully before you jeopardize the next couple years of your life. Attend pre-draft camps. With an agent in tow, you'll likely sign up for the pre-draft camps at the NBA level. There, you'll make a ton of connections and get your name and your face known. If you can handle the pressure, this may be the exposure you need to turn pro. This will also grant you the opportunity to get feedback on your draft position, who's looking at you, and what your potential for getting drafted is. The only thing you can do in this situation is to keep calm and play your best. Get signed. There are two rounds of the draft. One by one, players get chosen by teams, also one by one. In other words, you get one chance to get drafted. If you're willing to accept it, fantastic. If you're not, you could try being a free agent and go from there, or not play in the NBA. If you're semi-okay with it, you could negotiate pay or terms of your contract, making it shorter if you're looking to leave sooner. However, not being willing to take what you're given is pretty rare. If you're a second-round draft pick, you may not make it onto the opening night roster. Know what you're in for and what the terms are before you assume anything. Alternatively, play for the D-league or overseas. If you weren't picked for the draft or you were unhappy with the outcome of events, you could play for the D-league of the NBA or overseas. The D-league is similar to the minor leagues and you could, in theory, get pulled up into the NBA. Overseas, however, is a completely different story and a completely different machine. Your agent will help score an interview with this one and you could get picked to go somewhere exotic (or not so exotic) for the next year. If you're willing to move, it can be a pretty well-playing gig. Know that a staggering few make it professionally in any sport. Your odds of making it into any pro sport just aren't good. Point blank. Sure, it's possible, but you the odds aren't exactly in your favor. In fact, around 1% of all college players (men and women, though it's microscopically higher for men) make it to the pros. That means out of you and 99 others, only one person will get chosen. If you don't make it, you're in good company. Plenty of talented basketball stars still make a living out of their passion coaching, teaching at camps, or playing in different countries and different leagues. Just because you didn't make it professionally like you envisioned does not mean you have to give up your career. | Learn all the game's rules like the back of your hand. Get yourself in the best physical shape possible. Dribble like a madman. Work on your shooting skills. Use "BEEF" when shooting. Add "C" to your "BEEF. Learn to shoot with one hand. Practice spinning the ball and using your non-dominant hand. Do drills to improve every aspect of your game. Always be a confident team player. Start as young as possible playing on teams and attending camps. Be a star on your high school team. Keep your grades up. Up your basketball IQ. Get noticed for a scholarship. Start playing at the college level. Consider getting an agent. Attend pre-draft camps. Get signed. Alternatively, play for the D-league or overseas. Know that a staggering few make it professionally in any sport. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-for-Medi-Cal | How to Apply for Medi Cal | To apply for Medi Cal, you'll need to make less than 138 percent of the poverty line, which is $16,754 for a 1-person household and $22,715 for a 2-person household as of 2018. If you're pregnant, you must make between 213 and 322 percent of the poverty line, which is between $35,060 and $53,002 for a 2-person household as of 2018. If you're not sure if you qualify, enter your income and household size into the Shop and Compare tool on the Covered California website to find out if you're eligible. | Calculate your total income for the year. Your total income includes any income from jobs, pensions, Social Security, and alimony. Add in any other money you made from things like the lottery or legal gambling. If your income changes month to month, take a monthly estimate by adding it altogether for the year and dividing by 12. Determine your household size. Count yourself, your spouse (if you're married), and anyone you can claim as a dependent on your taxes. So if you are married to someone and have 3 kids, your household size is 5. Keep in mind that the income of anyone you claim as a dependent counts towards your income. Children under the age of 19 (or 24 if they're a student) are considered dependents if they live with you more than half of the year. A person of any age can also be considered a dependent if they are disabled, live with you more than half of the year, and get at least half of their financial support from you. You can also claim relatives or other people living in your house, if they've lived in your house all year, received more than half of their financial support from you, and made less than $3,950 USD during that year. If you're not sure who you can claim as a dependent, use this interactive tool from the IRS to help you: https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/whom-may-i-claim-as-a-dependent. Use the poverty chart to determine your eligibility. The eligibility level differs based on what criteria you meet, but if you're an adult who's not pregnant, you must make below or at 138% of the federal poverty line. You can find the chart here: https://www.coveredca.com/PDFs/FPL-chart.pdf. In 2018, 138% of the federal poverty line for a 1-person household is $16,754 USD. For a 2-person household, it's $22,715 USD. The poverty line changes each year according to federal guidelines. If you're pregnant, you must be between 213% and 322% of the poverty line, which is $35,060 to $53,002 USD for 2 people in 2018. For kids, they must be at or below 266% of the federal poverty line to qualify, so your kids may qualify if you don't. For a 2-person household, 266% of the federal poverty line is $43,784 USD. Fill in the Shop and Compare tool to find programs you're eligible for. If you can't figure it out with the chart, this tool just asks for some basic information to help determine what you qualify for. Fill in your income, household size, and year you want coverage for, as well as your zip code. You can find the form at https://apply.coveredca.com/lw-shopandcompare/. Plus, you can also use it to apply for coverage in the following year. Visit the Covered California website. Under "Get Coverage," click on "Start an Application." Click "Apply Now." This will bring up a page to create a registration for the website. The website is https://www.coveredca.com/apply/. Register for the website with a username and password. Click on "Create an Account," and enter your name, birthday, Social Security Number, and an email, phone number, or address. You'll also need a 4-digit pin number. You will need to create a username for the website. It can simply be a combination of your first and last name if you'd like. Then enter a password that you can remember. The password must meet 3 of the 4 following criteria: have an uppercase letter, have a lowercase letter, contain a number, and/or contain a special character. Fill in your basic biographical information. Add your name, address, and your phone number. Include your Social Security Number, as well as your preferred language and preferred contact method. Add basic medical information about yourself. Answer questions about yourself, such as whether you're blind or disabled. You will be asked questions about your age, and whether you've ever been in the foster system, just to name a few. Be ready to provide detailed information about your jobs and income. You'll also be asked optional questions about your race. Include information about each person you're applying for. Fill in the same medical and background information for each person included in the application. For instance, you may need to fill in the information for your spouse and/or your children. If they have income, you will need to fill in that information, too. Sign and submit the application online. The system will ask you to verify that the information you're submitting is truthful, via an e-signature. Then, you can submit the application by hitting the "Submit" button. If you need help, click the "Need Help?" at the top right-hand corner of the screen. Wait for a letter in the mail. Within 45 days, you should get a letter in the mail notifying what coverage you can receive. They will tell you if you qualify for Medi-Cal or another form of coverage. If the state needs more information from you, they will contact you. Download and print the paper application online. Print it off so you can fill it in. Download the application from this link: https://www.coveredca.com/PDFs/paper-application/CA-SingleStreamApp_92MAX.pdf. Write in your basic biographical information. Add information about your address, phone number, and Social Security Number. You'll also need to write your preferred method of communication and your preferred language. Put in medical information for you and anyone else you're applying for. Fill in basic information, such as whether you are disabled or blind. Add in detailed information about your current jobs and income. Add the same information for your spouse and dependents. If you need to add information for more than 4 people (including yourself), copy pages 6-8 for each extra person. Read your rights and responsibilities and sign the form. There's a section laying out your rights and responsibilities that you should read through, as it provides information you need to know. Sign and date the application when you're done. If you need help, call 1-800-300-1506 (TTY: 1-888-889-4500). The help line is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Send in your application even if you can't complete all of it. Once you sign and send in your form, someone will contact you to help you finish it. The most important thing is to just get as much information as you can down and then send it in. Mail your application in to: Covered California P.O. Box 989725 West Sacramento, CA 95798-9725 You can also walk it into your local county services office, which you can find at https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/Pages/CountyOffices.aspx. Expect a reply within 45 days. You will get a letter in the mail with a response to your application. They will notify if you've been accepted to Medi-Cal. If you haven't heard back from the state in that time, call your local office. You can find the number here: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/Pages/CountyOffices.aspx. Find your local county office. You can find contact information and an address for each office online, as well as a website. They are listed alphabetically at https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/Pages/CountyOffices.aspx. Click on the website for your local office. Look on the website for more information about your local office. You can find office hours, as well as any information you may need to make an appointment. Make an appointment if the local office asks you to. Visit the office in person. Go to the closest office and ask for an application for Medi-Cal. They should have paper applications on hand, as well as people there to assist you with any help you may need. Fill in the needed information. Add your main biographical information, including your name, Social Security Number, address, and phone number. You will also need to fill in basic medical information and details on income for you and every other dependent in your household. You will also need to fill in the information for your spouse if you're married. Sign and turn in the application. Date the application, as well. If someone at the office filled it in for you, you'll still need to sign it to show that you asked for that assistance. Wait 45 days for a reply in the mail. | Calculate your total income for the year. Determine your household size. Use the poverty chart to determine your eligibility. Fill in the Shop and Compare tool to find programs you're eligible for. Visit the Covered California website. Register for the website with a username and password. Fill in your basic biographical information. Add basic medical information about yourself. Include information about each person you're applying for. Sign and submit the application online. Wait for a letter in the mail. Download and print the paper application online. Write in your basic biographical information. Put in medical information for you and anyone else you're applying for. Read your rights and responsibilities and sign the form. Send in your application even if you can't complete all of it. Expect a reply within 45 days. Find your local county office. Click on the website for your local office. Visit the office in person. Fill in the needed information. Sign and turn in the application. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Test-for-HPV | How to Test for HPV | You'll want to get tested for HPV, a common sexually transmitted disease, if you've had multiple sexual partners or if you or your partner experience any symptoms, like warts. However, many people with HPV are symptomless, so if you're sexually active, get screened every 3 to 5 years. For those who are over 25 years old, schedule a combination Pap smear-HPV test with your gynecologist or at a sliding scale clinic, like Planned Parenthood. However, for those who are 25 or younger, a pap smear may not detect HPV, so you'll need to request an HPV reflex test. If your tests come back positive for HPV, discuss follow-up screenings with your doctor. | Consider whether you're at risk for HPV. The main risk factor for HPV is being exposed to it from a partner, so you should be screened if your partner has shown symptoms. Depending on the type of HPV you've contracted, you may develop genital warts or warts on other parts of your body. These warts might appear as raised growths, flat bumps, or other types of lesions. People with HPV are often symptomless, and many types of HPV don't cause warts at all. Though you may not have symptoms, it's a good idea to get tested if you think you might have been exposed to the virus at any time. If you have multiple sex partners, you should definitely consider being screened. Most sexually active people should be screened every 3-5 years. Schedule a Pap test with your gynecologist. Your gynecologist performs this test regularly, so all you need to do is call and make an appointment. Let the office know that you think you may have HPV, and you'd like to be tested. You can also just say you want a Pap smear or a well-woman exam. HPV may not be checked with a pap smear if you're under 25. If you're 25 or younger, ask specifically for an HPV reflex test. If you don't have a gynecologist, ask your friends and family for a recommendation. If you can't afford an appointment, try a sliding scale clinic or a Planned Parenthood, which may offer their services for a low rate or for free. The Papanicolaou smear, or "pap smear," is a test used by a doctor to look for changes in the cells that line the cervix, which is the passage that connects the vagina to the uterus. It doesn't test for HPV directly, but any changes in its lining can suggest you have HPV. Ask to have an HPV test done at the same time. The HPV test is performed in the same way as a Pap smear, so if you suspect you have HPV, ask if you can have a combination Pap smear-HPV test. That way, you don't have to go through the procedure twice. Keep in mind, though, that doing both tests will likely cost you more, so check with your insurance first. Get undressed when the nurse asks you to. When getting this exam done, you'll likely be asked to undress and put on a gown. Then, you'll get up on the exam table and put your feet in stirrups so the doctor can examine you. This test is typically administered by family medicine physicians or gynecologists with the help of an assistant. Usually, the staff will leave the room while you get undressed. Relax and expect discomfort, but not pain, during your examination. To begin the exam, the doctor inserts a thin, duck-bill shaped instrument called a speculum inside your vagina to hold it open. It shouldn't hurt, but it may be a little uncomfortable. Then, they will use a small brush (which looks similar to a mascara brush) or small spatula to brush the inside of your cervix and gather a few cells. The brush is then stirred into a preservative fluid or spread onto a slide and examined under a microscope to look for abnormal or pre-cancerous cells. Wait for the results to come back from the lab. They should have your results within a week. If the results are abnormal, don't panic. The doctor will want to do some follow-up tests to figure out exactly what's going on. The HPV test will determine if you have HPV or not, and the Pap smear measures whether you have abnormal cell growth, which may indicate pre-cancerous growth. Schedule further testing if you have an abnormal pap smear, a positive HPV test, or both. If your Pap smear is abnormal and your HPV test comes back negative, you don't have HPV, but the doctor will likely want to do further tests to see what could be causing the abnormality– it could result from an infection, menopause, pregnancy, or pre-cancerous cell growth. If you do have a positive HPV test with a normal or abnormal Pap smear, that means you have HPV and you could be at risk for cervical cancer in the future. If you get these results, it's important to be screened frequently in the coming months to catch any early signs of cervical cancer. Even if you contracted HPV years before the test, but your body cleared out the infection, a negative HPV test combined with abnormal pap smear could still indicate the presence of pre-cancerous cells. In this case, make sure to schedule further testing even if you have not been sexually active for a while, or if you no longer test positive for HPV. Get an HPV test every 3 years if you're under 30. When you're at this age, you should be screened for abnormal cells. However, because HPV is common and not curable, most doctors don't recommend automatically screening for HPV. While HPV can spontaneously clear up, there's no treatment for the virus once you have it. Have a Pap smear and HPV test every 5 years if you’re over 30. Until you're 65, you should still be screened regularly. Even having just a Pap smear every 3rd year may be sufficient, but if you're worried, you can add in the HPV test to help calm your fears. Most of the time, you can stop both Pap smears and HPV testing after age 65, unless you've had abnormal results in recent years. Discuss how often you should be screened based on your results. If you have abnormal results, talk to your doctor about whether you should be screened more often for changes in your cervical cells. Abnormal changes can take as long as 10 years to develop, but your doctor may want to screen once a year just to be safe. If you do have HPV, you can also be tested for HPV-16 and HPV-18 specifically, which are the most likely versions of the virus to cause cancer. If these tests are positive, your doctor will likely want to do more screening. Understand that HPV may clear on its own. Often, your body will fight off this infection, and you won't have the condition any more within a year or two. Though it can clear spontaneously, there is no cure for the virus. However, you can take a vaccine to prevent it if you're sexually active. If you had warts with your HPV, they should clear once the infection has cleared. Otherwise, the only way to know if the HPV has cleared up is to get the test again in a year or so. You can get an HPV vaccine starting at age 9. Continue getting a vaccine until age 26 if you're female or age 21 if you're male. Discuss if a colposcopy is necessary. With this procedure, the doctor will use magnification to take a close-up look at your cervix. That will help them decide if you need further testing, such as a biopsy. With this procedure, you'll need to be on the examining table with your feet in the stirrups. They will use a speculum to hold your cervix open during the examination. Then, they will rinse out your cervix to make it easier to see. The magnifying lens will not touch you. It's set slightly away from your body. You may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but ask if you can take an ibuprofen or naproxen beforehand to ease any pain. Be ready for a biopsy during your colposcopy. If the doctor decides that something doesn't look quite right, they may want to gather a sample of tissue to be sent to the lab. This part may hurt a little. You might feel a cramp or a pinching sensation. You may experience a little spotting for a few days after the biopsy. Combined with the colposcopy, the procedure shouldn't last more than 10 minutes. Ask whether you need pre-cancerous cells removed with a LEEP. This procedure, the Loop Electro-Surgical Excision Procedure, can be done by your gynecologist. They will give you local anesthesia and will then use a wire to remove some tissue from your cervix. The wire is hot so it may cause some pain after the procedure. However, you shouldn't feel it during the process. After this is done, you may have discharge for several weeks. | Consider whether you're at risk for HPV. Schedule a Pap test with your gynecologist. Ask to have an HPV test done at the same time. Get undressed when the nurse asks you to. Relax and expect discomfort, but not pain, during your examination. Wait for the results to come back from the lab. Schedule further testing if you have an abnormal pap smear, a positive HPV test, or both. Get an HPV test every 3 years if you're under 30. Have a Pap smear and HPV test every 5 years if you’re over 30. Discuss how often you should be screened based on your results. Understand that HPV may clear on its own. Discuss if a colposcopy is necessary. Be ready for a biopsy during your colposcopy. Ask whether you need pre-cancerous cells removed with a LEEP. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Repair-a-Shoe-Sole | How to Repair a Shoe Sole | If you need to repair a shoe sole, start by cleaning all over the shoe with a mixture of warm water and isopropyl alcohol so the adhesive will stick. Once the shoe has dried, use a toothpick or cotton swab to apply a thick layer of adhesive where the sole has come apart from the shoe. Then, press the sole against the bottom of the shoe tightly, making sure not to get any adhesive on your hands. Don't worry if the adhesive spills out of the cracks, you can always sand it off later. Since you want the shoe and sole pressed tightly together until the adhesive dries, secure them together with rubber bands or tape. After waiting 24 hours, remove any rubber bands or tape and sand off the overflow glue with 120-grit sandpaper. | Pull the old sole off with pliers. Even if the sole is starting to come loose, you will probably need pliers to pull it off the shoe entirely. Hold the shoe firmly and pull on the edge of the sole with pliers, moving the sole away from the bottom of the shoe. If the sole doesn't come off easily, try wedging a paint scraper or butterknife between the sole and the shoe as you pull on the sole with pliers. You can also use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm up the glue that attaches the sole, which will make it easier to remove. Clean off any old glue using acetone. There may still be some dried glue remnants on the bottom of your shoe where the sole was attached. Pour a little acetone or nail polish remover on a rag and scrub the bottom of your shoe with it. The glue should dissolve and scrub off. Clean any dirt or residual grime off the shoe as well. Roughen up the bottom of the shoe and the new sole with sandpaper. Rough surfaces hold together better with glue than smooth ones. Use 120-grit sandpaper to scratch up the bottom of the shoe and the top of the sole until their textures appear rougher. Apply shoe sole adhesive to the new sole with a brush or cotton ball. Follow the instructions on the adhesive for application. Some adhesives must sit for a few minutes, or “cure,” before the item can be put in place. Some adhesives require heat to be activated Shoe Goo is a common and effective shoe sole adhesive, and is available in many shoe shops, sports supply outlets, and department stores. Put the new sole in place and press it tightly against the shoe. If the adhesive needs to cure before it's used, wait for as long as the instructions indicate before putting the sole on. Start at the front and lay the sole gradually on the shoe, making sure the edges line up properly. Once it's in place, apply pressure to stick it firmly on the bottom of the shoe. Clamp the sole to the shoe using rubber bands, duct tape, or weights. The sole needs to be pressed tightly against the shoe for the two surfaces to adhere. Secure the sole in place by wrapping rubber bands or duct tape around the shoe, or by placing it on the ground and setting weights on top of it to press the shoe into the sole. It can be helpful to stuff the shoe with paper first so that it keeps its shape while being clamped. Wait 24 hours before using the shoe again. Most shoe sole adhesives take at least a full day to set. Let your shoe sit somewhere cool and dry where it's not in danger of being moved or touched. Clean the shoe and sole with water and alcohol. Use a rag to rub some warm water and isopropyl alcohol over the area around the loose part of the sole. If you can do so without pulling it off further, clean inside where the sole has become loose as well. Apply shoe sole adhesive between the shoe and the sole. Use a toothpick or cotton swab to apply a layer of adhesive inside where the sole has come apart from the shoe. Make the layer fairly thick, as it's better to put in too much and have it overflow than to not have enough. Some adhesives need to cure for a few minutes after being applied and before the sole is put in place. Check the instructions on your adhesive product. Press the sole against the bottom of the shoe. Being careful not to get any adhesive on your hands, press the sole and the shoe together tightly. Don't worry if some adhesive spills out -- this can be sanded off later. Keep the sole in place with rubber bands, duct tape, or weights. The sole should be pressed tightly against the shoe for the entire time it dries. Secure it using rubber bands or duct tape, or set weights on top of the shoe in the area where the glue is drying. Let the shoe sit for 24 hours. Place the shoe somewhere out of the way, where it can stay cool and dry while it sets. Wait at least a full day before wearing the shoe. Sand off any dried overflow glue. If any of the shoe sole adhesive spilled out when you pressed the sole down, sand it off using 120-grit sandpaper. Make sure the adhesive has dried out completely before sanding it. Clean the area around the hole with water and alcohol. Use a rag to rub warm water and isopropyl alcohol around the hole to clean off any dirt or grime. Let it dry for a few minutes before continuing. Roughen up the edges of the hole with 120-grit sandpaper. This will help the glue adhere to the rubber. Scrub the edges of the hole with sandpaper until it appears to take on a rougher texture. Put duct tape over the inside of the shoe above the hole. Remove the insole of the shoe and place a piece of duct tape inside the shoe where the hole is. If the hole does not go all the way through the inside of the shoe, put your finger in the hole and push up to see where the hole is and cover that part with duct tape. Fill the hole with shoe sole adhesive. Being careful not to touch the adhesive with your bare hands, gently squeeze it into the hole. Make sure the entire hole is filled, and don't worry if there is some overflow. Use an ice cube to smooth the surface of the adhesive. The ice cube will allow you to smooth the surface of the glue without sticking to it. You can also use a tongue depressor or spoon covered with petroleum jelly. Let the shoe dry for 24 hours with the sole turned up. Set the shoe so that the sole is facing upwards. Leave it somewhere out of the way where it will be cool and dry. Leave it for at least a full day. Sand down any dried adhesive that overflowed from the hole. Check to see if there is dried glue protruding from the hole or spilling out over the edges. If there is, use 120-grit sandpaper to sand it down until the bottom of the sole is smooth. | Pull the old sole off with pliers. Clean off any old glue using acetone. Roughen up the bottom of the shoe and the new sole with sandpaper. Apply shoe sole adhesive to the new sole with a brush or cotton ball. Put the new sole in place and press it tightly against the shoe. Clamp the sole to the shoe using rubber bands, duct tape, or weights. Wait 24 hours before using the shoe again. Clean the shoe and sole with water and alcohol. Apply shoe sole adhesive between the shoe and the sole. Press the sole against the bottom of the shoe. Keep the sole in place with rubber bands, duct tape, or weights. Let the shoe sit for 24 hours. Sand off any dried overflow glue. Clean the area around the hole with water and alcohol. Roughen up the edges of the hole with 120-grit sandpaper. Put duct tape over the inside of the shoe above the hole. Fill the hole with shoe sole adhesive. Use an ice cube to smooth the surface of the adhesive. Let the shoe dry for 24 hours with the sole turned up. Sand down any dried adhesive that overflowed from the hole. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Have-a-Worry-Free-Period | How to Have a Worry Free Period | Periods can be stressful, but if you plan ahead and are prepared, you can stay worry-free! The best way to avoid a surprise period is to keep track of your cycle. Period tracker apps, like Clue or Flo, are really helpful. If you aren't keeping track of your flow, pay attention to Premenstrual symptoms like cramps, bloating, and breakouts, which usually start a few days before your period. To avoid being caught off guard, keep 2 or 3 pads or tampons in your bag at all times and make sure to replenish your stash often. It's also important to use the correct size of pads or tampons for your flow. That way, you don't have to worry about leaks. Finally, make sure to change your menstrual products often, which will keep you clean and prevent dangerous bacteria from building up. You should change your pad or tampon at least every 8 hours, but changing it every 2-3 hours is best. | Pay attention to cramps, bloating, or breakouts. Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS, is a good indicator that you are about to get your period. Sore breasts, mood swings, and feeling tired are all signs that your period could be coming within the next few days, especially if it's been about a month since your last period. Not everyone gets PMS before every period. Use a period tracker to tell you when your next cycle will be. Periods usually come around once a month, but everyone's cycle is different. Enter the date of your last cycle into a period tracker on your phone or computer to estimate when exactly your period will come next. This will help you avoid the stress of guessing when your period is about to start. Clue, Flo, Cycles, and Eve are all popular period tracker apps. If this is your first period, enter the date of when you started your current cycle. Track your sugar pills if you take birth control pills. Although a birth control pill pack has 28 pills in it, only 21 of those are active. The other 7 are sugar pills. These pills, which may be a different color than your other pills, are an indicator of when you will have your period. If you are taking birth control pills that give you a normal monthly cycle, keep track of the sugar pills as a sign that you'll be having your period. Keep a stash of pads or tampons in your purse or backpack. It's no fun to be caught off guard when your period starts. To avoid the mad scramble to the store, keep 2 or 3 pads and tampons in your bag that you use every day. Replenish your stash often. You can also hand out pads and tampons to your friends who might need them. If you don't have your own stash of feminine products, ask a friend or head to the school nurse to request some when you get your period. Figure out if you prefer pads or tampons. If you just recently got your period, it may be best to stick with pads for a while. If you feel comfortable, you can try out using a tampon instead. Tampons allow for more movement and can feel more comfortable during physical activities, like sports and gym classes. Keep whichever product you are most comfortable with around to use during your period. Choose the correct size of pads or tampons for your flow. If you have a heavy flow, you may need super absorbent pads and tampons that get changed every few hours. If your flow is less heavy, you might use regular pads or tampons and change them every 6 hours. Try out different absorbances to see which is right for your period. It is always better to go for a more absorbent product. That way, if your flow is heavier than you expected, you won't have a leak. If your flow is super heavy, you can wear a pad and a tampon at the same time. Most periods start out heavy toward the beginning of your cycle and get lighter as it continues. Change your feminine product regularly. If you are using a tampon, change it at least every 8 hours to avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare but life-threatening mix of bacteria that can build up on a tampon. Change your pad about every 8 hours or whenever it becomes uncomfortably full of blood. If you have a heavy flow, you may need to change your pad or tampon every few hours. Changing your feminine product regularly also helps avoid unwanted odors. Never wear a tampon to bed unless you know you will only be sleeping for 8 hours and are able to change it right when you wake up. Save money with a menstrual cup or reusable pads. If you hate the waste of disposable pads and tampons, consider switching to a sustainable method. Menstrual cups act like tampons and catch the blood before it leaves your body. Reusable pads are just like regular pads, except instead of throwing them away, you wash them and reuse them. Although these products can cost more than normal pads and tampons up front, you will save money in the long run by using them. If you are just having your period for the first time, consider using pads for a while and then working up to a menstrual cup. They can take some practice to insert. Take an over-the-counter painkiller to help with cramps and aches. Aspirin and ibuprofen are both helpful in the aid of period cramps. Take the recommended dose for your age every 8 hours until your cramps have stopped. Pain killers can also help with headaches and muscle aches that may happen during your period. If you are under 16 years old, take children's Aspirin. Midol is a painkiller made specifically for period pain. Use a heating pad on your abdomen to relieve cramps. Plug in an electric heating pad or fill a rubber heating pad with hot water. Place the heating pad over your lower abdomen or back to help with your cramps. Leave it there until your cramps feel better. Take a warm bath or shower to help your pain. Just like a heating pad, warm water can help to relieve cramps and aid in relaxation. Focus the shower spray on your lower abdomen and back or make sure your torso is fully submerged in a bath. Stay in the hot water until your period cramps feel better. Manage your stress to stay relaxed. If you are stressed during your period, your symptoms could ramp up and get even worse. Do some relaxing exercises like meditation, yoga, or a long walk. Or, try deep-breathing exercises, listening to calming music, or writing in a journal. Try to keep your stress levels at a minimum while you are on your period. Stress relief is different for everyone. Find an activity that you know will relax you to help during your period. Do some light exercise to relieve pain. It may seem counterintuitive, but exercises like cycling, swimming, or walking can help to take your mind off of your period pain and relieve your cramps. If you feel up to it, consider doing a fun physical activity that you enjoy. It can be something small like a walk around the block, or something longer like a jog around the neighborhood. Don't feel bad if you are too tired to exercise while you're on your period. A major side effect of your period is fatigue. Wear comfortable, dark colored clothing when you go out. If you have school or work when you are on your period, consider ditching the skinny jeans and opting for sweatpants or loose fitting jeans that aren't snug around your waist. Choose tops that aren't super tight to leave room for bloating and make you feel more at ease. Keep a jacket to tie around your waist in case of leaks. Wearing dark-colored pants can help avoid the embarrassment of a leak showing up through your jeans. Avoid wearing white pants or shorts while you are on your period. A leak is much more likely to show up on white colored bottoms. | Pay attention to cramps, bloating, or breakouts. Use a period tracker to tell you when your next cycle will be. Track your sugar pills if you take birth control pills. Keep a stash of pads or tampons in your purse or backpack. Figure out if you prefer pads or tampons. Choose the correct size of pads or tampons for your flow. Change your feminine product regularly. Save money with a menstrual cup or reusable pads. Take an over-the-counter painkiller to help with cramps and aches. Use a heating pad on your abdomen to relieve cramps. Take a warm bath or shower to help your pain. Manage your stress to stay relaxed. Do some light exercise to relieve pain. Wear comfortable, dark colored clothing when you go out. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Plant-Clematis | How to Plant Clematis | If you want to plant clematis, choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight each day, with well-drained soil that doesn't have standing water after a heavy rain. Dig a hole several inches deeper than the pot the clematis came in, and add compost and fertilizer to the soil in the hole. Carefully remove the clematis from the pot and set the root ball into the hole. Pat the soil around the base stem so it comes up to about the first set of leaves. Place a 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the clematis, then soak the soil thoroughly. | Pick a clematis cultivar. Clematis flowers come in an enormous range of shapes and colors, from pink blooms that span 6 inches across to drooping blue bells to starry white flowers. They've grown in popularity in recent years, so many nurseries offer dozens of varieties to choose from. When you decide which cultivar to buy, take the color, shape, potential side and sun requirements into account. Clematis often take several years to flower, so look for a potted plant that's already a year or two old. Here are the most common clematis cultivars: Nelly Moser : Has large, pink flowers and is one of the most common types of clematis. It's hardy and easy to establish. Ernest Markham : Has stunning magenta flowers and grows vigorously on trellises and arbors. This variety blooms last, from late spring to fall. Niobe : Has red flowers and is a suitable choice for growing in a pot, since it doesn't get very large. Princess Diana : Has pale pink, bell-shaped flowers and does particularly well in very hot climates. Jackmanii : Has deep purple blooms and grows vigorously; a widely available favorite. Venosa Violacea : Has abundant blue-violet blooms and vines that climb vigorously. Apple Blossom : Has small white blooms; grows as an evergreen. Choose a sunny location. Clematis may come in an amazing range of shapes and sizes, but they have similar needs when it comes to sun and temperature. They are hardy plants that require at least 6 hours of full sun per day. Clematis are hardy from growing zone 3 to zone 9. A few varieties of clematis will grow in partial shade, but they won't reach their full potential unless they have full sun for 6 hours per day. Look for a spot with low-growing perennials and groundcover that will shade the roots of the clematis but allow it to grow into full sun about 3 or 4 inches off of the ground. Clematis need cool roots and full sun on the vine and flowers. If you can't find a spot with groundcover, you can plant it later or mulch 4 in (10.2 cm) deep around the clematis to keep the roots cool. You can also plant clematis near the base of a shrub or small tree. The clematis will grow up the branches without harming the "companion" shrub or tree. Choose a spot with well-draining soil. The location shouldn't be so dry that it doesn't retain moisture, but it should drain well enough that standing water doesn't sit around the roots of the clematis. To test whether the soil in an area drains well, dig a hole and fill it with water. If the water drains immediately, the soil is on the sandy side. If the water stands in the hole, the soil has too much clay, and doesn't drain fast enough. If the water slowly but steadily seeps into the soil, it's just right for clematis. Test the soil for its pH level. Clematis prefer the soil to be neutral or alkaline over acidic. If you conduct a test and determine that the pH is a little too acidic, sweeten the soil by mixing in limestone or wood ash. Dig a hole and enrich the soil. Dig a hole several inches deeper than the pot the clematis came in, so that when you plant it the soil comes right up to the first set of leaves. Before you plant the clematis, amend the soil by working in compost and granular organic fertilizer. This will ensure that the plant has enough nutrients to establish itself in the first few months after planting. If you're working with soil that tends to be clay heavy (slow to drain), dig the hole a few inches deeper than you normally would. If your soil is sandy (quick to drain), a slightly shallower hole will be better for the plant's roots, so they're close enough to the surface to get plenty of water. Plant the clematis. Very gently remove the clematis from the pot it came in, taking care not to rip or break the fragile roots and shoots. Set the root ball into the hole, about 3-5 in (7.6-12.7 cm) below the surface of the dirt, and pat the soil around its base stem. The soil should come up to the first set of leaves; if it doesn't, lift out the root ball and dig the hole a bit deeper. Leave the stake in place so that the young clematis has something to grow against for the first year. Mulch around the roots. Place 4 inches of straw or another type of mulch around the base of the clematis to keep the roots cool. You can also plant or encourage the growth of low-growing perennials whose leaves will shade the roots of the clematis throughout the summer. Keep clematis well watered. Give the clematis long, deep drinks of water whenever the soil seems dry. To test whether it is dry, stick your finger in the soil, then pull it out. If you didn't hit wet soil, it's time to water the clematis. Don't water the clematis too often, though; since the roots are shaded, water may tend to sit for a longer period of time before it evaporates. Water in the morning, rather than in the evening, so that the water has time to dry and be absorbed before night falls. Provide a support for the clematis. Clematis will not grow unless they have a vertical structure to climb. During the first year, the support that came with the clematis will be sufficient for the plant's needs, but after that you'll need to provide a larger support, like a trellis or arbor, to encourage it to grow bigger. Clematis grows by twisting its leaf stems around slender supports like twine, fishing line, thin branches, or screens. Be sure the support you provide isn't too wide for the leaf stems to reach around. It should be less than.5 inches (1.27 centimeters) in diameter. If you have a trellis or arbor made with wide pieces of wood, line it with a screen or attach some fishing line to provide a support thin enough for the clematis to wrap around. As the clematis grows larger and reaches around the support, you can help it stay in place by "trussing" it: loosely tying it to the structure with fishing line. Fertilize the clematis. Every 4 to 6 weeks, feed the clematis with 10-10-10 fertilizer or side dress it with compost by spreading it around the plant's base. Clematis requires plenty of nutrients to grow strong and produce abundant flowers. Prune dead or damaged stems at any time. While clematis aren't prone to being affected by pests, they can get a fungal disease that can cause the entire plant to turn black and die. If you see a dead or wilting stem on the clematis, use a clean pair of pruning shears to trim it away at the base. Disinfect the shears in an isopropyl alcohol or a bleach solution between cuts so you don't spread the disease to other parts of the plant. Prune away the oldest stems. Since flowering becomes less abundant on stems over 4 years old, you can cut off the oldest stems to encourage new ones to grow. Wait until after the first bloom of the season, then use a pair of clean pruning shears to remove the stems at the base stem. Perform annual pruning according to the cultivar's requirements. Clematis does well with an annual pruning to encourage fresh growth. However, different cultivars require pruning at different times of year. It's important to know exactly when to prune your specific cultivar, since you can damage the plant if you prune it at the wrong time of year. Plants that bloom on old wood , meaning the flowers appear on last year's stems, require no pruning except to cut back their size a bit and keep them contained. After they flower, prune back to a pair of healthy buds. (Apple Blossom is in this group.) Plants that bloom first on old wood and again on new wood , meaning the flowers appear on last year's stems and new spring stems, need to be pruned to remove weak growth. Prune them in early spring, before they bloom, to remove weaker stems, then again after they bloom to improve their shape. (Nelly Moser and Ernest Markham are in this group.) Plants that bloom on new wood , meaning the flowers appear only on new spring stems, should be cut back to 12 inches at the beginning of spring. (This includes Niobe, Princess Diana, Jackmanii, and Venosa Violacea.) | Pick a clematis cultivar. Choose a sunny location. Choose a spot with well-draining soil. Test the soil for its pH level. Dig a hole and enrich the soil. Plant the clematis. Mulch around the roots. Keep clematis well watered. Provide a support for the clematis. Fertilize the clematis. Prune dead or damaged stems at any time. Prune away the oldest stems. Perform annual pruning according to the cultivar's requirements. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Change-Emojis-on-Android | How to Change Emojis on Android | To use different emoji on your Android while texting, download an alternative texting app like Textra, which comes with a variety of emoji styles. | Download Textra from the Play Store. Textra is a free messaging app that comes with different emoji styles. Here's how to get it: Open the Play Store {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/1\/1e\/Androidgoogleplay.png","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Androidgoogleplay.png\/26px-Androidgoogleplay.png","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":531,"bigWidth":"26","bigHeight":"30","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>I edited this screenshot of an Android icon\n<\/p><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"http:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a><br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Type textra into the Search bar. Tap Textra SMS. Tap Install. Tap ACCEPT. Open Textra. It's the blue and white chat bubble icon labeled “Textra” in the app drawer. If it's your first time using the app, tap START USING TEXTRA to access your messages. If you want to use Textra as your default SMS app, tap MAKE DEFAULT APP at the bottom of the screen. Tap ⁝. It's at the top-right corner of Textra. Tap Settings. Tap Customize Look. It's the first option under the “Customize Look” section. Tap Emoji Style. It's the second option under the “Styles” header. This opens the list of all emoji options. Select an emoji style. Examples of each style appear to the left of each style's name. Tap OKAY. Now that you've changed the emoji style in Textra, all emoji you send or receive will appear with that style. Install the Facemoji Keyboard from the Play Store. Facemoji allows you to send stickers that look like customized emoji in almost any messaging or social media app. Here's how to get it: Open the Play Store {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/1\/1e\/Androidgoogleplay.png","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Androidgoogleplay.png\/26px-Androidgoogleplay.png","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":531,"bigWidth":"26","bigHeight":"30","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>I edited this screenshot of an Android icon\n<\/p><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"http:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a><br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Type facemoji into the Search bar. Tap Facemoji Emoji Keyboard. Tap Install. Tap ACCEPT. Open the Facemoji Keyboard. If you're still in the Play Store, tap OPEN. Otherwise, tap the Friendmoji icon (a blue icon with a white chat bubble and sunglasses-wearing emoji inside) in the app drawer. Tap Enable Facemoji Keyboard. This opens a list of keyboards on your Android. Slide the “Facemoji Keyboard” switch to . A confirmation message will appear. Tap OK. Another pop-up message will appear. Tap OK. Now that you've given Facemoji the appropriate permissions, you'll return to the setup screen. Tap Switch to Facemoji Keyboard. The “Change keyboard” window will appear. Tap Facemoji Keyboard. This sets Facemoji as your default keyboard. To customize the background of the keyboard, tap OPEN YOUR GALLERY to select an image. Otherwise, you can close the app. Open the messaging app in which you’d like to send emoji. To do so, tap the Home button, then tap the app's icon. Open a message. You can create a new message or select one you wish to reply to. Tap the typing area. This brings up the Facemoji keyboard. Tap the emoji key. It's the smiley face near the bottom-left corner of the screen. You'll see the emoji you're used to, though there's a series of other icons at the bottom of the screen. Tap the sticker icon. It's the smiling square with a turned-up corner at the bottom of the screen. Browse for an emoji sticker. Scroll through the options until you see the sticker you wish to send. Tap the sticker. The sticker now appears in the conversation. | Download Textra from the Play Store. Open Textra. Tap ⁝. Tap Settings. Tap Customize Look. Tap Emoji Style. Select an emoji style. Tap OKAY. Install the Facemoji Keyboard from the Play Store. Open the Facemoji Keyboard. Tap Enable Facemoji Keyboard. Slide the “Facemoji Keyboard” switch to . Tap OK. Tap OK. Tap Switch to Facemoji Keyboard. Tap Facemoji Keyboard. Open the messaging app in which you’d like to send emoji. Open a message. Tap the typing area. Tap the emoji key. Tap the sticker icon. Browse for an emoji sticker. Tap the sticker. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Helpful | How to Be Helpful | Everyone needs a helping hand sometimes, and there are plenty of ways to be helpful. Try taking time out of your weekend to help a friend or family member. You could help your grandparents clean out their garage or help a friend set up for a party. You can help in small ways too, like helping your flatmate clean, helping your mom cook dinner, or carrying someone's bag for them. Keep in mind that most people won't ask for help, so try to offer it whenever you can. If you're not sure how you can help, just ask. Even if someone doesn't need a hand, it's likely that they'll appreciate the gesture. | Assess the situation. Before doing something and attempting to help, stop and examine it from different perspectives, both to see different ways you might be able to help, and whether or not your help is necessary. Dig deeper. What is the source of the problem? The kind of help which should be extended to a person greatly depends on the situation and whether or not there are underlying causes. For example, if a friend's car payment is due and their car is about to be repossessed if a payment isn't made, you could loan the money for a temporary fix, but how possible is it that you'll end up in the same position in the next couple months. Instead, think about helping your friend set up a budget, or take out a loan. Help people help themselves. Remain calm. A calming influence can be just as helpful, if not more so, than offering someone money or advice. Try to model a strong, stable mindset for them. Staying calm is also as essential part of clear thinking and even-temperedness, helping you to see the different possibilities for solutions and help, and choose between them honestly and objectively. Read the situation and figure out which perspective needs to be represented to balance things out. If you're generally a worrier, it might be your instinct to tell a friend who is nervous about a big event that you're also worried, too, but will that be helpful? Instead, balance it out. Be the calm one in the situation. If, on the other hand, your friend is thinking about hitchhiking across the country alone with one pair of clothes and no money, maybe your natural-worry will come in handy. Use positive language to reinforce, not to discourage. Positivity is one of the most helpful things you can offer others. Encouraging people helps to inspire confidence, and saying positive things helps to make people feel better about themselves. Try to be the person who makes the extra effort to stay positive, even when things seem tough, and others will value your presence as a helpful contributing factor to the group. Aim for encouragement. Don't be afraid to dissent, though, if the occasion calls for it. In some cases, it's possible that positivity needs to be leavened out with some hard truths. Don't be afraid to be the one to provide it. Make time to be helpful. Being around is one of the underrated requirements of being a helpful person. If you want to be helpful for your friends and family, you've got to be available to be helpful and give them the gift of your time. Try to make time for the important people in your life and be willing to do things you might not normally want to do, to be as helpful as possible. It may not be ideal for you to spend a Saturday helping your grandmother clean out her basement, but if you schedule some time to visit, at least you can limit it to your schedule and avoid having to skip a meeting with friends to help out, when you'd rather not. You don't need to sit at home twiddling your thumbs, waiting for someone to call, if you want to be helpful. Live your own life, but consider scheduling time for the important people in your life you'd like to help, so you can give it when it's needed. Follow up. Invariably you will encounter a problem that requires some heavy lifting on your part. This could be taken literally, as when you're asking to help someone move, or figuratively, as when you're asked to help someone kick a drinking habit, or get through a break-up. Either way it does require some effort or investment on your part. If you are committed to helping, you may need to open your wallet, your home, your heart or your mind. None of which is easy but may be entirely necessary. While it may seem obvious to some, it's also critical to help yourself before you help others. If you're not taking care of your own situations, then it wears down your ability to extend help to others. Ask how you can help. Want to know if you can be of some assistance? Ask. The best way to figure out quickly and efficiently if and what you can do to help out is to just ask, flat-out. See your dad struggling with a lawnmower? "Hey Dad, need a hand?" See your friend looking down in the dumps after being embarrassed in gym class? "Hey man, sorry about that. Want to talk about it?" Sometimes offering to help without asking can hurt someone's feelings, if they were confident about their ability to do it alone. Anticipate unspoken needs. Pay attention to the signs other people are giving you to find out how to help without having to be asked. Think about the ways you might want to ask for help, then apply that to other people. For example, when you're cooking it's nice to have one person chop vegetables while the other person makes the sauce, making the whole operation faster. If you see a friend drilling math problems with flashcards, offer to help test. If you see someone struggling to carry too many bags, you probably don't have to ask to know they could use a hand. If you see your flatmate tidying up, join in so you can both relax more quickly. Genuinely listen. Put away your phone, and give the person you're helping your full attention. Really listen to the person and evaluate the situation as objectively as possible. Digging deeper, asking questions and staying engaged in the person's issues will make you the most helpful presence possible. Don't look for the easy help, look for the real help. Do not give advice before asking them how they feel, or how they want to respond to a situation. One of the best things to ask someone who has come to you for help is to ask them how they feel about the situation, and what they think the best thing to do is. Then offer you opinion, not get upset if they do not take your advice. Think before you respond. This sounds easy, but is a challenge for most people who wish to interject or offer advice too quickly. Offering an open ear with patience and without judgement is more than most people expect and what most people really need. Let them vent while you think of good advice and courses of action, and you will be helping out immensely. Keep your friend focused on the bigger issue. Often, the help you're offering may be simple, like offering someone a ride. Or it may be difficult, like helping a your friend out get a GED, or a job. The person you're trying to help, though, may have no idea what he or she needs, and may be confused, meaning that you can help out by listening closely and telling the difference. For example, your friend may think the biggest problem in the world right now is that she can't scratch up enough dough to buy a pair of the new Jordans, but maybe the real problem is her inability to keep a job for longer than a week. How can you be the most helpful in this situation? Give your two cents and then stop talking. Helping out doesn't necessarily mean offering your advice, your opinion, or even trying to solve the problem with a tidy solution. Sometimes, people will just need a listener and a sympathizer. It's not necessary to fix things to be helpful. Just listen and you can offer a lot more of your time. Figure out whether or not you're capable to actually help. Some people have a super-hero mind, wanting to jump in and help anybody and everybody, no matter what the circumstance. But in reality, there are a lot of things you won't be capable of doing yourself, practically. In that circumstance, it is best to see if you can help them out by finding someone who can better assist. Then, you will be able to see more successful results than had you tried it yourself, and you will know that you were the one to help point them in the right direction. If your friend calls you from three hours away because of car trouble and is asking you to come pick them up, you could hop in your car and waste the next 6 hours of your life, or you could start looking up body shops in the area, or friends close by who might be more able and eager to help. Get your hands dirty. Sometimes, the best course of action is just to hop in and start helping. Don't wait to be asked for help, just volunteer. This is especially true for big jobs, like garage cleanings, or yard work, things that nobody is especially excited to do, but just need to be done. Instead of waiting around and debating, just hop in and volunteer to get started. Your willingness to work might have the effect of inspiring others to hop in and stop hemming and hawing about what to do. Be a leader. Keep your help quiet. Sometimes, receiving help can be a little embarrassing, so try to put yourself in the shoes of the person you're helping and not make a big deal out of it. This is especially true if you're doing something like lend money, or get someone out of a pickle that might have been somewhat embarrassing. Don't underestimate what might be embarrassing for some people. If your buddy needed help changing a tire because he didn't know how, it might be somewhat emasculating to bring it up in front of all your friends. If he offers to tell the story as a joke, hop in, but don't volunteer the information yourself. because you want to. Help If you want to be really and truly helpful to others, you need to act from the goodness of your heart, not because you want something in return. This will only lead to disappointment, resentment, and manipulative behavior, making you bitter in the long run. Acting from a place of ulterior motives only makes you less helpful in the long run. Don't push your help on people. If someone's committed to doing something solo, it's not your business to force your aid on them. Be available if they should have a change of heart. Be careful. There are people out there who will take advantage of your generosity. The joy you derive from helping your fellow man is worth the risk, but such risk should be mitigated wherever possible. Use common sense. Understand your own limitations and bless you for helping. Look out for leeches. Learn to understand who actually needs your help and who might just be conning, or manipulating you. Don't be emotionally manipulated into doing too much for someone. | Assess the situation. Remain calm. Use positive language to reinforce, not to discourage. Make time to be helpful. Follow up. Ask how you can help. Anticipate unspoken needs. Genuinely listen. Think before you respond. Keep your friend focused on the bigger issue. Give your two cents and then stop talking. Figure out whether or not you're capable to actually help. Get your hands dirty. Keep your help quiet. because you want to. Be careful. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Thaw-Puff-Pastries-Quickly | How to Thaw Puff Pastries Quickly | If you forgot to take your puff pastry out of the freezer or you want to quickly make a pastry, you can thaw it quickly in the microwave. All you need to do is wrap one pastry sheet at a time in a paper towel and place it in the microwave for 30 seconds on high. Stop the microwave and flip the sheet after 15 seconds to heat it evenly. When you take it out, you should be able to easily fold the sheet. If it's still firm, put it back in the microwave for 5 seconds per side until it does fold. If you have 3 to 4 hours, wrap your pastry sheets individually in plastic wrap and leave them in the fridge to thaw. | Remove 1 pastry sheet from the packaging. Use the microwave if you need to thaw your pastry sheets as fast as possible. The puff pastry won't need to be microwaved or thawed if it can be folded easily. The pastry sheet should be cold to the touch when you use it. If the sheet is room temperature or warmer, return it to the fridge and give it some time to chill. Don't manipulate a pastry sheet that's not fully thawed as this could lead to the sheet tearing. Wrap the pastry sheet in a paper towel. Use a clean, dry paper towel and lay the pastry sheet on the towel and then fold the towel over it. If the paper towel isn't large enough, use a second or a third paper towel to sufficiently cover the pastry sheet. Place the pastry sheet in the microwave on high for 30 seconds. Place the towels and pastry sheet on the plate in your microwave. Turn the microwave to the "high" setting and turn the microwave on for 15 seconds. When the 15 seconds are up, flip the paper towels and pastry sheet and turn the microwave on for another 15 seconds. If the pastry sheet doesn't fold easily after coming out of the microwave, place it back in on "high" for another 5 seconds on each side. Keep microwaving for 5 seconds on each side until the pastry sheet folds easily. Take the pastry sheets out of the packaging. The fridge is the slowest method for thawing your pastry but ensures a thorough thaw. The fridge will also keep your pastry cool so you can use it as soon as you take it out of the fridge. Check if the pastry sheets need to be thawed by trying to fold them. If they can be easily folded, the pastry sheets don't need to be thawed. Puff pastry should feel cold when you're using it for baking. If the pastry sheet can be folded easily but feels warm to the touch, you should place the pastry sheets in the fridge to cool them instead of thawing them. Separate the sheets and place them on plates. Place each pastry sheet on its own plate. Don't place 2 or more sheets on top of each to save space as this will stop them from being properly thawed while in the fridge. Cover each plate with plastic wrapping. Open your roll of plastic wrap and stretch it over each plate, folding the excess at each side under the plate. The bottom of the plate will hold the wrap in place while the pastries are defrosting in the fridge. Place your pastry sheets in the fridge for 3 to 4 hours. When your pastry sheets are covered in plastic wrap on each plate, they are ready to be put in the fridge to defrost. Leave the pastry sheets for 3 hours and check to see if you can easily fold them. If you can, they are ready to be used. If you still feel like the pastry sheets are frozen, leave them in the fridge for another hour. After the 4 hours are up, check to see how easy it is to fold the pastry. They should be fully thawed at this point and ready for use. Remove the puff pastry from the packaging. Thawing at room temperature takes the least amount of effort on your part but can be quite slow. Look at the pastry sheets to find out if they need to be thawed. If they are cold and you can easily fold them, they are ready for use. If they feel warm to the touch, place them in the fridge and let them chill. Place each pastry sheet on its own plate. Give each pastry sheet its own plate and lay the plates out on a counter in your kitchen. Don't stack the pastry sheets on top of each other as they will not thaw evenly or properly. Give the sheets 40 minutes to thaw. After 40 minutes, your pastry sheets should be fully thawed. If not, give them another 10 minutes before testing them again to see if they've thawed. If they've thawed but now feel like they're at room temperature, place the sheets in the fridge for 10 minutes to give them time to become cool. | Remove 1 pastry sheet from the packaging. Wrap the pastry sheet in a paper towel. Place the pastry sheet in the microwave on high for 30 seconds. Take the pastry sheets out of the packaging. Separate the sheets and place them on plates. Cover each plate with plastic wrapping. Place your pastry sheets in the fridge for 3 to 4 hours. Remove the puff pastry from the packaging. Place each pastry sheet on its own plate. Give the sheets 40 minutes to thaw. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Micronation | How to Start a Micronation | Although it's nearly impossible to actually secede from a parent nation, you can still create your own micronation. First, claim territory for your nation, being sure to follow any laws concerning claiming land in your area, and have a permanent population of people living within the territory. Construct a government for your nation, such as a republic or a monarchy, and create laws and restrictions. | Set a goal for your micronation. Are you looking for a fun project or are you interested in creating an actual sovereign nation? Think about why you want to create a micronation and what you hope to get out of it. Figuring out what type of micronation you want will help you determine how to proceed. Types of micronations include: Historical, social, political, or economic simulations Exercises in personal entertainment, fantasy, or artistic expression Models for utopian worlds Research other micronations. To ensure you have a complete understanding of what a micronation is and what it entails, do some research on other micronations. Some are created as a hobby, while others are created in earnest. Find more information in books, like Kathy Ceceri's Micronations: Invent Your Own Country and Culture or Erwin S. Strauss's How to Start Your Own Country. You can also find tons of information on the Internet or watch films such as The Mouse That Roared , Moon Over Parador , and The Prisoner of Zenda. Look into other micronations, like The Republic of Molossia, Freetown Christiania, and The Principality of Hutt River. Decide how serious you are about this project. You may want to create a micronation as a fun hobby with like-minded individuals. Or, you may take this endeavor quite seriously with the hopes of achieving independence for your nation. Recognize that there are many hurdles you will need to face if the latter is your goal. Expect to encounter challenges along the way, such as finding citizens, claiming territory, constructing a government, creating industries, establishing an economy, and entering into foreign relations. Choose a name for your nation. Your new nation will need a name. Consider your goals when determining a name. If you are just looking to keep you parents from harassing you about chores, you could pick something like “The Nation of Dirty Laundry.” However, if you truly hope to have your micronation taken seriously, choose a more appropriate name, like “The Mountain Republic” or “The Free Island of the Pacific.” Search it up before using it (remember someone else might have chosen this name). Find citizens to join your nation. While there are many one-person micronations out there, you'll need citizens to join your micronation if you intend to achieve sovereignty. You can ask friends, neighbors, and family members. You can also find citizens through advertisements or on the Internet through your own website or through micronation forums. Work to meet the four requirements of statehood. If you're hoping to secede from your parent nation, you'll need to meet specific statehood requirements. The Montevideo Convention of 1933 defines the four requirements of statehood: you must have a defined territory, a government, a permanent population, and the ability to enter foreign relations. When you meet these requirements, you'll have a sovereign nation, but you're still considered a micronation until another country officially recognizes you. Claim territory for your nation. You don't have to buy any land for a nation, you just have to claim it. It can be a room in your home, your backyard, your whole property, or something public, such as a park or an empty lot. You can also claim an uninhabited island or a deserted section of the forest. Be sure to find out and follow the laws concerning claiming land in your area. Some micronation creators choose to live on a ship off the coast of a sovereign nation, as well. Construct a government for your nation. Decide on a type of government, such as a republic, monarchy, or dictatorship. You could also create your own political party. Enforce this government and ask other citizens to become officials. You can choose to be the leader, or you can elect someone else to be the leader of your new government. Create laws and restrictions. You can create a constitution or write laws for your micronation. For example, you can choose to ban certain items in your country, extract fees for entering your nation, or have your citizens pay taxes. Micronations are free to create whatever laws or restrictions they wish! Build an economy. Every nation needs a strong economy to succeed. You can choose to use the currency of your parent nation, or create your own! You can order custom coins and currency online, if you decide to create your own. Create and develop industries and discuss trade options and other economic factors, like if you'll have a stock market, as well. Develop diplomatic relationships. You can contact other micronations' leaders to develop diplomatic relationships and, furthermore, ratify an international treaty or alliance. Your friends or relatives can be ambassadors of your country. Remember to use official and formal language in your documents and at diplomatic meetings, especially if you're communicating with established governments. Issue passports and stamps. You can make your own stamps, assuming you'd have your own postal service to deliver mail, or go online to order custom stamps that your parent government will recognize. Passports are another item your citizens may need if they plan to leave or reenter the land that's been designated for your micronation. Enlist your citizens to help you design and manufacture these essentials. Add attractions to your territory. If you're aiming to become a sovereign nation, you'll need housing, schools, offices, farms, stores, banks, industries, and more. You could also add a park, memorial, small museum, or gallery to your micronation's territory. For example, you can fill a memorial room with important documents, artifacts, paintings, and photos of your micronation's history. Create a website for your nation. The truth is, many micronations exist exclusively online. Creating a website is an important step to starting a micronation, but it shouldn't be the extent of the work you do. However, a website does let others know of your presence and can help you find citizens and donations for your nation. Spend some time learning how to create a website or ask a tech-savvy friend for their help. Decide what will represent your micronation. Every nation needs an anthem, flag, coat of arms, and national motto! You can also choose national symbols such as national bird, animal, food, or sport. This is a really fun part of creating a micronation, as you have complete creative control over choosing what songs and symbols represent your micronation best. Go online to order custom flags, pins, etc. for your micronation. Define national holidays. For example, you may want to celebrate the day of the establishment of your micronation, anniversaries of historical events (Victory in Europe Day, International Workers' Day, the day your micronation was created, etc.), or religious holidays (Christmas, All Saints' Day, etc.). Ask your citizens what they would like to celebrate and why to help you decide on the best holidays for your micronation. Participate in activities as a micronation. Activities are a great way to promote your nation and also create interesting info to add to your website. If there is enough population in your nation, you could form a sports team or negotiate international trade between people or micronations. You could also create a float about your micronation to put in a parade in your area, host a jam session or poetry reading, or host a costume contest or talent show. | Set a goal for your micronation. Research other micronations. Decide how serious you are about this project. Choose a name for your nation. Find citizens to join your nation. Work to meet the four requirements of statehood. Claim territory for your nation. Construct a government for your nation. Create laws and restrictions. Build an economy. Develop diplomatic relationships. Issue passports and stamps. Add attractions to your territory. Create a website for your nation. Decide what will represent your micronation. Define national holidays. Participate in activities as a micronation. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Banana-Pancakes | How to Make Banana Pancakes | To make banana pancakes, start by mixing all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Then, stir in milk, vegetable oil, and eggs to form the batter. Next, cut up a ripe banana, fold it into the batter, and let the batter sit for 15 minutes to incorporate the flavor. Finally, cook 1/2 cup of the batter at a time in a pan for 90 seconds on each side. | Combine the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl. That's your two types of flours, baking soda and powder, salt, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg. Mix together with a whisk. Of course, pancakes from a box are also an option, but making it yourself is just so much more fulfilling (and tastier). Add the wet ingredients. Combine with the dry ingredients the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until you have a definite batter -- if it's too thick or thin, add more milk or flour, respectively. Cut ripe bananas into small pieces. A good way to do this is to slice the banana in half the long way and dice it up from there. Try to keep all the pieces uniform in size. Some may choose to mash up the bananas and stir it in aggressively with the batter. That's also delicious! Fold them into the batter and let sit for 15 minutes. After the bananas are delicately combined, walk away for a bit. Letting the bananas rest in the batter helps incorporate their flavor throughout. Towards the end of this time, turn on your stove and let your pan or griddle heat for about 3 minutes on medium. Spray on some cooking spray. Ladle the pancake batter into your warmed pan/griddle. About 1/2 cup of batter makes for a good-sized pancake. Spread it out a bit (sometimes when it's thick it doesn't move easily) with the bottom of your spoon, ladle, or cup to desired size. Leave it on this side for about 90 seconds, depending on your stove, pan, and heat level. Flip it. The fun part, right? If it doesn't lift up easily, it's not ready. And don't worry -- the bananas, if anything, make flipping it easier. Lift up a bit of the edge and check to see if it's the right shade of brown. A good tool to use are the bubbles that crop up. Once you get a fair amount, start checking. Let brown and remove from heat. Ta da! Serve alone or in a stack with whipped cream, syrup, strawberries, walnuts, chocolate chips, or with nothing at all -- any way they're delicious! | Combine the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Add the wet ingredients. Cut ripe bananas into small pieces. Fold them into the batter and let sit for 15 minutes. Ladle the pancake batter into your warmed pan/griddle. Flip it. Let brown and remove from heat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Promescent | How to Use Promescent | To use Promescent, apply it 10 minutes before you plan on engaging in sexual intercourse so it has time to start working. To apply Promescent, start by taking the cap off, turning the bottle sideways, and shaking it for 10 seconds. Then, turn the bottle right-side up and slowly press the spray pump 20 times, waiting 2 seconds between pumps. Once the formula starts coming out, apply 1-3 sprays directly onto your penis and let it sink in for 10 minutes. Finally, after 10 minutes, rinse your genitals with soap and water. | Time yourself. You will need to apply Promescent at least ten minutes before you engage in sexual intercourse. The numbing effects will last for up to an hour. Applying Promescent hours or seconds before you have sex will not work. Prime the bottle. If you are using the standard metered-dose bottle, you will need to prepare it. Remove the small plastic piece over the nozzle. Unlock the child-resistant cap. Turn the bottle sideways and shake for ten seconds. Right the bottle and slowly press the spray pump. Do this up to twenty times, waiting about two seconds between pumps. When the formula releases, stop. Determine your dose. For your first time, you might want to start with one or two sprays. The directions suggest three sprays for a first try, but many users find this numbs them too much. It is unsafe to use more than 10 sprays per dose. Each spray releases 10 mg of desensitizing lidocaine. Locate your frenulum. Your frenulum is likely the most sensitive spot on your penis. It is the small ridge of tissue under the head of your penis, on the underside of your penis. Apply 1-3 sprays. Spray Promescent directly onto your penis, or spray onto the tips of your fingers and rub the formula onto your penis. Repeat up to three times using the same method. While the recommended dosage is three, many users find one or two sprays are all they need. Apply to the frenulum, or other spots you consider sensitive. Make sure to rub in after each spray. Wash your hands immediately afterward. Traces of Promescent on your hands could put you or your partner at risk of eye injury. Wait ten minutes. Spend ten minutes without touching or washing your genitals. Your skin will absorb the Promescent in this time. Waiting for this absorption to take place will allow you to maintain good sensation. It also minimizes any transfer of the anesthetic to your partner. After ten minutes have passed, wash your genitals with soap and water. Trace amounts may cause numbness in your partner if you don't wash. Don't be afraid of washing. The active ingredients will all have been absorbed after ten minutes. Soaking your genitals will cause the Promescent to leach out, however. Do not take a bath after applying Promescent. Instead, wipe yourself clean with a wet washcloth. Once the Promescent is absorbed and the genitals are washed, products such as condoms or lubricant are safe to use. Observe your progress during sex. Most users experience 2-3 times longer intercourse the first time they use Promescent. Some users report improved results after three uses of the product. During your first use, notice if you feel too numb or not numb enough. Ask your partner if it made him or her feel numb at all. Re-apply if you wish. If you feel effects are not strong enough, or have worn off, you can repeat your application. Do not use more than 10 sprays in total. If you used ten sprays for your first round of intercourse, do not re-apply. If you use more than ten sprays of Promescent, you may experience numbness, loss of erection, and irritation. In cases of overuse, wash your penis with soap and water immediately. Visit a doctor if symptoms persist. Adjust the dose. Depending on how your first experience went, you may wish to spray more, less, or on different parts of your penis. If the numb frenulum didn't work for you, try spraying along the shaft, or on the glans. Repeat use will help you determine the right dose and the right method of application for you. Talk to your partner. Promescent does not just affect you. It affects your sexual partner or partners. Before use, discuss the risks and possible side effects of Promescent with your partner. Your partner risks experiencing numbness or irritation if you use Promescent. Inform your partner before you receive oral sex. Your partner's mouth may go numb, especially if you did not completely wipe off the Promescent after application. Get a trial-sized bottle. If you and your partner aren't sure Promescent is right for you, get a trial sized bottle. These contain 10 sprays, and are designed for a single use. If you like it, you can invest in a standard metered-dose bottle. Talk to your doctor. If you frequently ejaculate before five minutes of intercourse have passed, talk to your doctor. Premature ejaculation is common, but sometimes it can have a serious cause. If you have symptoms of diabetes, thyroid problems, nerve damage, or prostate cancer, visit a doctor and explain your concerns. Check for allergies, illness, and injury. Promescent contains lidocaine. If you or your partner are allergic to this substance, do not use Promescent. If you use Promescent and find that you or your partner develop rashes, irritation, itching, or burning, discontinue use. Check for cuts and scrapes. Do not apply Promescent to skin that is broken or irritated. Check yourself, and have your partner check himself or herself, to ensure that neither of you have a rash, a cut, bumps, or other marks on your genitals. Do not use if your partner is pregnant, or might be. If you or your partner is being treated for kidney or liver disease, do not use Promescent. | Time yourself. Prime the bottle. Determine your dose. Locate your frenulum. Apply 1-3 sprays. Wait ten minutes. Observe your progress during sex. Adjust the dose. Talk to your partner. Get a trial-sized bottle. Talk to your doctor. Check for allergies, illness, and injury. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Add-Healthy-Fatty-Acids-to-an-Old-Dog%27s-Diet | How to Add Healthy Fatty Acids to an Old Dog's Diet | To add healthy fatty acids to your older dog's diet, ask your veterinarian if it is safe to give your dog a fish oil pill for omega-3 fatty acids. If so, give your dog the pill by smearing it with peanut butter or putting it inside a treat. You can also pour liquid fish oil on your dog's food or give it some cooked fish like salmon, herring, or sardines. For omega-6 fatty acids, feed your dog some pork fat, chicken fat, sunflower oil, or soybean oil. | Look for foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are important for maintaining your dog's joint health. Look for dog foods that contain fish oil or fish products, as well as flaxseed or canola oil, which all contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also purchase supplements that contain omega-3 fatty acids from your veterinarian or over the counter. Look for foods or supplements that are high in omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are particularly important for your dog's dietary health. Flaxseed products can lower your dog's platelets, so talk with your veterinarian if your dog has a chronic blood condition. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements. There are particular dog foods designed for aging dogs in need of increased omega-3 fatty acids. You should be able to find them at your local pet food store. Talk to your veterinarian. If you are considering giving fish oil or any other omega-3 supplement, you should consult with your veterinarian. They will help you get the right dosage and ensure that you do not give your dog too much. Your veterinarian should also check to make sure that any symptoms your dog is exhibiting are not the result of another disease. Your veterinarian may also suggest supplements that your dog can take instead of fish oil. Depending on your dog's size, breed, and age, the amount of fish oil that you feed them will vary. Give your dog a fish oil pill. Once you have visited your veterinarian, you can begin adding fish oil to your dog's diet. If you are giving the oil in pill form, you will want to smear it with peanut butter or put it in a treat before feeding it to your dog. Your dog will not swallow the pill on its own. Be sure to give the dog a treat after the pill to ensure that it has ingested the pill. This step also applies to any other fatty acid supplement. Add fish oil to your dog’s meals. If your dog will not take a pill regardless of how well your disguise it, you can also pour fish oil on your dog's food. This will ensure that your dog gets some of the omega-3 fatty acids that you are trying to add to its diet. However, it is not as efficient as a pill. You can also follow this step when giving your dog any other fatty acid supplement. Cook some fish for your dog. If you are having a difficult time getting your dog to eat the supplements, you can serve your dog some cooked fish. Salmon, herring, and sardines are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Consider giving your dog two cooked sardines a day to meet its fish oil needs. Watch for adverse effects. Fish oil can cause some negative effects to your dog's health if the dosage is too much or if your dog suffers from chronic health problems. Be sure to consult your veterinarian and follow their dosage recommendations, and if you notice any side effects, stop giving your dog the fish oil. Possible side effects include: Increased bleeding Slow wound healing Upset stomach or diarrhea Insulin sensitivity in dogs with diabetes. Weight gain Pancreatitis Toxin exposure due to eating contaminated fish Choose foods that have omega-6 fatty acids. In order to maintain the health of its skin and coat, your dog will need to have a diet that includes omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids can be found in pork fat, chicken fat, as well as safflower, sunflower, corn and soybean oils. However, you should limit your dog's ingestion of tallow and lard, which contain omega-6 fatty acids, because they can cause your dog to get overweight. Most commercial dog foods are already high in omega-6 fatty acids. Talk to your veterinarian about gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). As your dog ages, its coat and skin may be less healthy. This is often the result of diminished liver function and a decrease in the production of GLA. If your dog's coat is patchy, you may want to talk to your veterinarian about a GLA supplement for your dog. There are a number of over-the-counter supplements that contain GLA. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian before giving any supplement to your dog. Your veterinarian should be able to provide you with GLA. You can also find it at most pet stores. Give your dog a supplement. If your veterinarian recommends a GLA supplement for your dog, you will need to find a way to administer it. Many dogs do not like swallowing pills, so you may need to hide it or mix it up in your dog's food. You can also disguise the pill inside a treat, such as cheese or peanut butter, and feed it to your dog. You can buy most supplements over-the-counter. However, you should talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication. You can find these supplements at your local pet store. Recognize that your dog’s dietary needs are very different from your own. Unlike humans, who should only eat a limited amount of saturated fat, dogs do not suffer from coronary artery disease and can eat larger amounts of “bad” fats. This is because dogs have high levels of “good” cholesterol regardless of what types of fat they eat. Therefore, the dietary guidelines that humans must follow concerning “good” and “bad” fats do not apply to your dog. However, your dog can get overweight if it is fed too much food that is high in fat, which can cause other health problems. You should, therefore, keep your dog on a healthy diet so that it maintains a healthy weight. Watch more behavioral disturbances. If your dog is not getting enough omega-6 fatty acids, you will likely notice some behavioral changes. Your dog may become lethargic and irritable. This is likely because your dog's immune system is compromised, causing your dog to be sick. It may also be a symptom of liver and kidney degeneration. Take your dog to the vet if you notice any such behavioral changes. Add fatty acids when you notice patchy skin. As your dog ages, it may experience certain coat and skin conditions. It may develop a skin allergy or experience decreased liver function, which can diminish the health of its skin and coat. Providing your dog with an omega-6 fatty acid supplement, particularly gamma-linolenic acid, may help your dog's coat and mitigate certain skin conditions. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about giving your dog an omega-6 supplement. Be on the lookout for arthritis. Aging dogs often suffer from arthritis as their joints weaken. Although there is limited clinical evidence, increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your dog's diet may strengthen its joints, as well as limit inflammation and the associated pain. Look for dog foods that contain fish, which is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Older large dogs can also suffer from hip dysplasia, which an omega-3 fatty acids supplement can help prevent. If your dog has experienced hip dysplasia, increasing omega-3 fatty acids can also speed up the recovery. | Look for foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Talk to your veterinarian. Give your dog a fish oil pill. Add fish oil to your dog’s meals. Cook some fish for your dog. Watch for adverse effects. Choose foods that have omega-6 fatty acids. Talk to your veterinarian about gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Give your dog a supplement. Recognize that your dog’s dietary needs are very different from your own. Watch more behavioral disturbances. Add fatty acids when you notice patchy skin. Be on the lookout for arthritis. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Closer-to-Your-Boyfriend/Girlfriend | How to Get Closer to Your Boyfriend/Girlfriend | Whether a distance is growing between you and your partner or if you'd just like to get closer to them, good communication and listening are key. The best way to get closer to your partner is to try and communicate with them as clearly as possible. Express your feelings openly and honestly, being direct with your words to avoid any misunderstandings. Also, try to actively listen to your partner whenever you're having a conversation. For example, stop what you're doing when your partner talks and then repeat back your understanding to show that you've listened. Checking in regularly with your partner about their life is another good way to get closer. Ask your partner specific questions about their day to show that you care. | Express your feelings directly and openly. Being close to someone requires telling them exactly what you want. Even if you think you're being obvious, many people have a hard time picking up on hints and indirect communication. You have to be willing to say what's on your mind, even if it's something that you're afraid your partner won't like. For example, you might say "I would like to be closer with you and share more of my life with you." If you feel like there's a barrier between you, or your partner is putting up a wall, you might say "I feel as though you're closed off to me, and I would like for us to get closer. Would you like to talk about it?" When you attempt to communicate through hints or indirect communication, you always have an out. If your partner picks up on your hint and doesn't like it, you can claim you didn't mean that at all. But even if you avoided a potential conflict, there will still be distance between you. Maintain honesty and openness in your relationship. Lies and deceit are always a barrier to closeness. However, refusing to share pieces of your life with your partner or keeping secrets from them can be just as damaging. When they find out about something you've been keeping from them, they may wonder what else you've been hiding. For example, suppose you have a dance class twice a week, but for some reason, you don't want to tell your significant other. Maybe you think they will ridicule you. So you keep it a secret. However, by doing that you are building a wall between the two of you. This doesn't mean that you can't keep a birthday present or surprise party a secret. However, in that situation, you should also be aware that your partner will likely sense that you're keeping something from them, and might start to get suspicious. Listen actively to your partner and repeat back your understanding. When your partner is talking to you, stop doing other things and pay attention to them. Use statements such as "I hear you saying that..." then put what they said in your own words. If your understanding or perception isn't accurate, they can correct it. Then the two of you are both on the same page. This doesn't mean you can't ever do other things while talking to your partner. For example, they may want to chat while you're doing the dishes or making the bed. But if they want to talk about something relatively serious, stop what you're doing and listen. Nod and look them in the eye (if this is culturally appropriate) to communicate that you are paying attention to them. Engage in self-disclosure to share yourself with your partner. Sharing your own inner thoughts and feelings may make you feel more vulnerable, but your partner will appreciate that you trusted them enough to share something so private and personal. Opening up in this way is a good way to get closer to your partner, as well as learning about each other. For example, you might reveal that you always cry at the beginning of the movie "Up." If your partner responds by saying "Oh, I understand. That's one of the most emotional scenes ever, and yet it's a cartoon without dialogue," then you've found a deeper emotional connection. You might also tell your partner about past experiences that helped shape who you are or what you believe. Be careful revealing too much about yourself if your partner is not reciprocating with equally intimate information about themselves. If you revealed you cry at a certain movie, for example, they might confess a movie that always makes them cry or admit that they've never cried at a movie. Turn criticisms into positive statements. When you criticize your partner, you may give them the impression that you think they're not good enough for you. They may put up defensive barriers, impeding your efforts to get closer to them. Try to flip criticisms around so that you focus on what you're missing rather than what your partner is or isn't doing. For example, you might say "We have so much fun when we go out together" rather than "you never want to do anything." Try to use plural pronouns, such as "we" and "us," as much as possible. Singular pronouns, such as "I" and "you," verbally pit the two of you against each other. Plural pronouns emphasize that you're a team and you're in it together. Make arguments constructive rather than destructive. When the two of you disagree about something, try to find a way to resolve the problem rather than tearing your partner down. Your goal should not be to win the argument but to move your relationship to a better place. Seek your partner's side of the story and empathize with them. Keep in mind that if you insult your partner, or lose your cool and start cursing at them, you'll likely regret it later. You could also deeply hurt them. Flying off the handle like this can also cross the line into verbal, psychological, or even physical abuse. If you're too upset to talk constructively, tell your partner that you need a few minutes of quiet time to calm down before you'll be able to talk about it. Then separate yourself from them for a few minutes. You could move to another room or go for a walk. Remain actively curious about your partner's thoughts and feelings. When you first met your significant other, you likely had a million questions for them and wanted to know everything about them. But once you've been together for a while, that curiosity can fade. You may think you already know everything about them – but you don't. Ask them how they think and feel about things rather than assuming you know. This applies to both large and small things in your life. For example, if the two of you are watching a TV show together, you might ask them which character is their favorite and why, or what the best part of the show is for them. Ask open-ended questions and give your partner the chance to surprise you. For example, a question such as "You like pizza, right?" is a yes/no question that doesn't give you the opportunity to learn anything new about your partner. However, if you asked "What's your favorite quick dinner?" their answer might surprise you. Check in with your partner regularly about things in their life. Your significant other will feel more comfortable opening up to you and letting you get closer if you show a real interest in the things that are going on in their life. If you've made an effort to listen actively, put that knowledge to use by asking them specific questions about things they mentioned. For example, you might ask "How's your research going for your history paper?" or "Did your boss like your presentation this morning?" Asking generally about work or school doesn't show interest the same way. Use as many specific details as possible to indicate that you were paying attention to them and you really care about what's going on in their life. Respect your significant other's boundaries. Even if you want to be more physically affectionate, your significant other may not feel comfortable with touch. Listen to them when they tell you what they like and don't like, and when they feel physical affection is appropriate. Ask if there are other demonstrations of physical affection that they would be more comfortable with. For example, if you like to hold hands when the two of you are out in public, but your significant other prefers their hands to be free, they might not mind if you placed your hand lightly on the small of their back, or wrapped your arm loosely around theirs. If your significant other doesn't appreciate any physical affection, talk to them to try to understand why. Find out if they want to be more physically affectionate. You may be able to help them overcome whatever is standing in their way, and that could bring you closer together. Pushing your significant other to accept physical touch that crosses their personal boundaries is disrespectful and will push them away from you. Use small, spontaneous displays of affection. Affection isn't confined to hugs, kisses, and other physical displays. Verbal affection will also warm your partner and bring them closer to you. Let them know how much you adore them by telling them directly. When your significant other does something for you, thank them for it rather than taking it for granted. If you know your significant other has something major coming up, such as a big test at school or a presentation at work, send them a little note or text message that says something like "You've got this! I believe in you!" Write little love notes and hide them around the house, or in your significant other's bag or clothing. For example, you might put a small note in their pants pocket that says "I'm thinking about you" or "You always bring a small to my face." Give your partner your undivided attention when you're with them. Anytime you're with your partner, be with your partner – not scrolling social media on your phone or texting with other people. Let them know that when you spend time with them, they are your primary focus. If you have to check your phone, for example, because you're expecting an important email or phone call, let them know ahead of time. You might say "I'm sorry, but I'm going to have to check my phone periodically. I'm expecting an urgent email" or "I'm expecting an important call, so I may have to check out briefly." This doesn't mean you can't watch a movie or a TV show together. But after the show ends, take some time to sit and chat about it rather than splitting off into your own separate worlds. Do something for your significant other that you know they hate doing. Everyone has various chores that they dread. Find out which chores or tasks your significant other dislikes the most, and occasionally do them yourself without being asked. You might also help out with chores or tasks that are more cumbersome for your significant other than they are for you. For example, if you have a washer and dryer in your home but your significant other has to take their laundry to a laundromat, you might let them do their laundry at your place. This gesture not only saves them money but gives you an hour or two to spend together. Don't draw attention to the fact that you did the chore or imply that they should do something for you because you did something for them. Do it as a way to show your love and affection for them, not because you expect anything in return. Tell your significant other specific things you appreciate about them. Focus more on things your significant other does than on aspects of their appearance. Compliment them on things they're proud of, work hard at, or feel passionate about. For example, if your significant other is learning how to play the guitar, you might say "I really appreciate how dedicated you are to learning a new instrument. Your practice is really paying off and I hear so much emotion in your playing." While physical compliments are nice, and everyone loves to hear that they are attractive, complimenting your significant other on something they've been working on shows that you're paying attention and you care about things that are important to them. Let your guard down around your significant other. To become closer to someone you love or care about, you have to be willing to be vulnerable around them. Allow them to see a side of you that no one else does. Don't be afraid to show emotion or let your partner see you when you aren't at your best. For example, if you're always neat and perfectly groomed when you see your significant other, they may think that they have to do the same. If they aren't feeling well or are having a lazy day and don't feel like getting all dressed up, they may think they can't spend time with you. If you never let your guard down around your partner, you'll have a hard time getting any closer to them because they can't get close to you. Avoid making comparisons between you and your partner. You may be putting a lot of effort into your relationship, and it may seem to you that your partner isn't putting in any effort at all. However, you have no idea what's going on in their head or what personal barriers they've had to overcome to let you into their life. Keep in mind that your effort also may not be clear to your partner. They may think that the things you do in the relationship come easily to you, when in fact they require a lot of work. Being open about your own difficulties can help your partner better understand your efforts, without making them feel as though they're not doing enough. Maintain your own individual activities and interests. It may seem like if you want to get closer to your significant other, you should do more things with them. But spending time apart from each other pursuing your own interests helps you build appreciation for the time you have together. For example, suppose you were taking a dance class before you started dating your significant other. After you start dating, you should do what you can to keep that class going if you find it fulfilling, rather than quitting simply because your significant other isn't interested. While it's great to introduce your significant other to your friends, go out with your friends occasionally without your significant other. Both of you should have individual friendships on your own that are apart from mutual friends – although this may be difficult if you met through mutual friends, or if you were friends with each other before you started dating. Maintaining your own individual interests can also keep you from becoming resentful of your partner. If you give up doing something that you love because they're not interested in it, you may find that you miss that activity and blame them for cutting you off from it – even if it was a decision you made voluntarily without their knowledge. Accommodate your significant other's wants and needs. Being in a relationship means you likely won't always get your way. Learn to recognize when something is important to your significant other and you should sacrifice what you want to fulfill their needs. Your significant other will appreciate your selflessness and this will strengthen your relationship. For example, suppose your significant other is receiving an award and it's really important to them that you're at the ceremony, but you have other plans at that time. If you cancel your existing commitment or cut it short so you can get to the ceremony as soon as possible, your significant other will appreciate the sacrifice you made on their behalf. Sometimes these accommodations may relate to relatively minor or even trivial things. Taking that extra step to do things your significant other's way shows them that you're accepting them as they are and not expecting them to change for you. Make an effort to include your partner's friends and family. Your significant other likely has friends and family members they care about who were part of their life before you were. If you show that you are open with them and want to get to know them, your significant other will feel as though you are becoming an integral part of their life. If you are in a situation where you can't be open about your relationship, such as if you live in a culture where dating isn't accepted, ask your partner about their friends and family instead. Encourage them to talk about the people they love and show that you are interested in them. Ask your significant other for advice when you have to make a decision. When you ask your significant other to help you with something, it shows them that you respect their opinion and honor their counsel. Make it a habit to ask your significant other for advice any time you have to make a serious decision, even if you don't necessarily need their advice or have already made up your mind. For example, if you're trying to decide between two job offers, you might say "So, you know both Alpha and Omega extended my job offers. I've made a list of pros and cons for each job, and I'd really like your input." If you think you've already decided what you're going to do, you might say "I have to decide between going on vacation with my family or staying at home. I'm leaning towards going with them, but I'd like to know what you think before I make up my mind." Follow up with your significant other when you make your final decision. If you didn't follow their advice, explain why you decided to go in a different way. | Express your feelings directly and openly. Maintain honesty and openness in your relationship. Listen actively to your partner and repeat back your understanding. Engage in self-disclosure to share yourself with your partner. Turn criticisms into positive statements. Make arguments constructive rather than destructive. Remain actively curious about your partner's thoughts and feelings. Check in with your partner regularly about things in their life. Respect your significant other's boundaries. Use small, spontaneous displays of affection. Give your partner your undivided attention when you're with them. Do something for your significant other that you know they hate doing. Tell your significant other specific things you appreciate about them. Let your guard down around your significant other. Avoid making comparisons between you and your partner. Maintain your own individual activities and interests. Accommodate your significant other's wants and needs. Make an effort to include your partner's friends and family. Ask your significant other for advice when you have to make a decision. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Dysplasia-in-Rottweilers | How to Treat Dysplasia in Rottweilers | To treat dysplasia in your Rottweiler, take it to your vet for a physical exam if you spot common symptoms, like decreased activity levels or a walk that looks like a bunny hop. After your vet confirms the diagnosis, make sure your dog gets regular low impact exercise, like short walks and swimming, which are important for maintaining muscle tone and strengthening joints. You should also manage your Rottweiler's weight by watching what it eats, since its joints will be under more pressure if it's overweight. If your dog has elbow dysplasia, ask your vet about surgical options, such as total elbow replacement. However, bear in mind that surgery can sometimes have negative effects, including a decrease in motion or loss of muscle. | Look for changes in your Rottweiler’s activity level. With dysplasia, your Rottweiler's joints become painful from normal wear and tear. If your Rottweiler's joints are bothering him, he'll start slowing down or completely avoid certain activities. For example, he might be unable to handle long walks and may refuse to go on walks at all. In addition, he may be more reluctant to go up and down stairs. If your Rottweiler used to excitedly greet you at the door, he might walk more slowly toward the door, or simply stay where he is. Observe how your Rottweiler walks. Rottweilers with hip dysplasia have a characteristic 'bunny hop' gait, during which the back legs move at the same time, rather than one at a time. With elbow dysplasia, your Rottweiler may have a 'paddling' gait (legs swinging out to the side) if both front legs are painful. Limping is common with either form of dysplasia. Your Rottweiler might have a stiff walk first thing in the morning. This initial stiffness usually goes away as the day goes on. With elbow dysplasia, your Rottweiler will have trouble flexing and extending his front legs, which likely contributes to the paddling action. Watch how your Rottweiler holds his front legs. Elbow dysplasia occurs when the radius and ulna (the two bones below the elbow) grow at uneven rates in the front legs. This unevenness causes the bones to fit improperly into the elbow joint, creating pressure and pain. Your Rottweiler will try to relieve this discomfort by twisting the affected leg out to one side. Unfortunately, twisting the leg out worsens the dysplasia. Take your Rottweiler to your vet. Your vet will perform a full physical exam, then perform a more focused orthopedic exam. During the orthopedic exam, your vet will move your Rottweiler's legs and joints in different directions, as well as watch how your Rottweiler walks (and runs, if possible). X-rays will help your vet see how much your Rottweiler's joints have been affected by the dysplasia. Since your Rottweiler may be in a lot of pain, he will need to be sedated for the x-rays. On an x-ray for hip dysplasia, the top of the femur (thigh bone) does not fit into the hip socket,and may have extra bone growth. For elbow dysplasia, your vet would see bone fragments in the joint. Realize that joint degeneration and pain do not always go together. For example, a painful dog that can't walk very well may have only mild joint degeneration. Modify your Rottweiler’s exercise. Dysplasia treatment is divided into medical (non-surgical) and surgical. Controlled exercise is an effective form of medical treatment since it can maintain muscle tone, improve joint stability, and improve range of motion. Short walks and swimming are great low-impact exercises for your Rottweiler. How much exercise he can handle will involve some trial and error. Try to walk your Rottweiler on the grass, which provides more cushioning than asphalt. Avoid high-impact activities, like running and jumping. Exercise your Rottweiler every day. Talk with your vet about long each exercise session should be. Manage your Rottweiler’s weight. Large dogs put more pressure on their joints. Rottweiler's are naturally large dogs, so if your Rottweiler is carrying around extra weight, he's putting even more pressure on his joints. Help him lose weight by switching him to a reduced calorie diet, which you can purchase through your vet or at your local pet store. If you've been feeding him store-bought treats, which tend to be high in fat, switch him to healthy treats or take treats out of his diet entirely. Carrot sticks and orange slices are healthy treats. Daily exercise will help your Rottweiler lose weight. Weight loss in dogs should be gradual. Your vet can determine your Rottweiler's ideal weight and how long it should take him to reach that weight. Add supplements to your Rottweiler’s diet. Dietary supplements called nutraceuticals have become increasingly popular for treating joint problems in dogs. Nutraceuticals containing chondroitin and/or glucosamine, which are effective at repairing damaged joint cartilage, are commonly used in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids help improve joint health. Many nutraceuticals are available, but not all of them are high in quality. Ask your vet to recommend high-quality products for your Rottweiler. Use medication to reduce joint pain and inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce joint pain and inflammation in dogs. Always have your dog take non-steroidals with or after eating food, as they can cause side effects like stomach ulcers when given on an empty stomach. Your vet may check your dogs liver and kidney function before starting medication to make sure it won't have any serious side effects. While your Rottweiler is on NSAIDs, your vet will run blood tests to check his liver and kidney function. Tramadol relieves pain and doesn't have many side effects. Steroids reduce pain and inflammation but can cause serious side effects, such as weight gain and weakened bones. Whichever medication your vet prescribes, follow the prescription instructions carefully. Perform physical therapy and massage. Physical therapy and massage are effective at improving muscle tone and enhancing blood flow in joints. Your vet can recommend various physical therapy exercises for you to perform on your Rottweiler at home. A massage can feel like a little piece of heaven to your Rottweiler. Make the massage area quiet and comfortable. When you massage him, use gentle pressure around his joints. It may take a while for your Rottweiler to get used to the massage. Be patient as he gets accustomed to you touching him in this way. Keep your Rottweiler’s sleeping area comfortable. Your Rottweiler will appreciate a warm and comfortable place to sleep if he has dysplasia. Consider purchasing an orthopedic foam bed, which will be easy for him to get into and out of and will not create painful pressure points around his joints. Place the bed in a warm and draft-free area of your home. When your Rottweiler is not in his bed, you could use heating pads around his joints to warm him up and relieve pain. Wrap the heating pad in a towel to prevent his skin burns. Limit the use of the heating pad to 15 or 20 minutes. Discuss surgical options with your vet. Surgery is frequently recommended for elbow dysplasia. The main goals for elbow dysplasia surgery are to correct unevenness between the radius and ulna and repair joint damage. Several different types of elbow dysplasia surgery are available, including total elbow replacement. Several surgical options also exist for hip dysplasia, including total hip replacement or removal of the head (top) of the femur. Your vet will be able to recommend the ideal surgery for your Rottweiler. Obese dogs typically do not make good candidates for surgery. If your Rottweiler is obese, your vet may recommend that he lose a certain amount of weight before having surgery. Depending on the complexity of the surgical procedure, your vet may refer you to a veterinary surgeon. Consider the risks of surgery. Surgery may be the best option for your Rottweiler's dysplasia, but it is not risk-free. For example, surgery to remove the head of the femur can result in decreased range of motion and loss of muscle mass. Potential complications of a total hip replacement are hip dislocation and nerve injury. With total elbow replacement, there is a risk of the surgical plate or screws breaking or dislocating. Your Rottweiler may or may not develop complications after surgery. However, it is good to understand the risks before moving forward with surgical treatment. Care for your Rottweiler after surgery. When you take your Rottweiler home after surgery, you will need to restrict his exercise and keep him away from stairs and slippery surfaces. Do not allow him to play with other dogs. In addition, you should perform the recommended physical therapy exercises and engage in low-impact exercises (e.g., short walks). Your vet will prescribe pain medications for your Rottweiler after surgery. Your vet will want to see your Rottweiler after surgery to take out his sutures (if necessary) and assess the improvement of the dysplasia. | Look for changes in your Rottweiler’s activity level. Observe how your Rottweiler walks. Watch how your Rottweiler holds his front legs. Take your Rottweiler to your vet. Modify your Rottweiler’s exercise. Manage your Rottweiler’s weight. Add supplements to your Rottweiler’s diet. Use medication to reduce joint pain and inflammation. Perform physical therapy and massage. Keep your Rottweiler’s sleeping area comfortable. Discuss surgical options with your vet. Consider the risks of surgery. Care for your Rottweiler after surgery. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-an-Avocado-Shake | How to Make an Avocado Shake | To make an avocado shake, start by adding an avocado, a cup of milk, ¾ of a cup of crushed ice, and anything else you want to add for sweetness or flavor to a blender. For example, you could add sugar, honey, agave syrup, chocolate syrup, or even a little bit of ice cream. Once all the ingredients are ready, blend everything together until the mixture is no longer chunky. While you're blending, make sure to check the consistency regularly, and to sample the mixture as you go. | Buy an avocado. If you want to make the shake immediately, buy a ripe, brown, ready-to-eat avocado; if you plan to make the shake in a few days, buy a firmer, greener avocado. To tell if it's ripe: Hold the avocado in the palm of your hand. Gently squeeze the avocado, being careful not to press with your fingertips, as this can cause bruising. A ripe avocado will be soft and will yield to the gentle pressure, but will not be overly squishy. If it's suspiciously squishy, there's a good chance that it's beginning to go bad; when avocados are overripe, the insides decay and go brown. If it is still hard, then it is still under ripe and will take a few days to ripen. You may still opt to purchase under-ripe avocados, and ripen them at home. Store unripe avocados in a paper bag at room temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18.33 and 23.88 degrees Celsius) for up to 5 days, until they are ripe. To slow the ripening process, store the avocado in the refrigerator until you make the shake. Buy certain varieties of avocado based on their flavor profile: The Hass, Lamb Hass, Gwen, Reed, or Sharwil varieties tend to have a nutty taste, whereas the Bacon and Zutano varieties are lighter in flavor. Half an avocado makes about two servings; a full avocado makes four. If you want an especially rich, thick smoothie, use more avocado per serving--say, use the whole avocado for two people. Bear in mind that if you use less avocado, your shake will be thinner, and it may not be so rich. . Buy milk The richer the milk, the thicker the shake. If you want an especially rich shake, use whole milk or half-and-half. For a lower-fat option, use 2%, 1%, or skim milk. Consider using almond milk, soy milk, rice milk, or any other non-dairy milk options. Nut milks, especially, may complement the naturally nutty taste of some avocado varieties. Bear in mind that these choices may not be as thick or rich as dairy milk. For an especially thick, rich shake, consider substituting ice cream for the milk. Bear in mind that this may make a shake that's too thick--you may only want to substitute ice cream for half the milk that the recipe calls for, or you may want to add an extra half-cup of ice cream to the recipe for a larger, thicker shake. If you're adding ice cream, you may want to compensate by using a lower-fat variety of milk. Buy sugar. Any type of sugar is fine: brown, white, granulated, etc. Avocados can be bitter, but sugar will mitigate any hint of bitterness. If you're on a no- or low-sugar diet, feel free to forego the sugar and let the natural richness of the avocado shine. Consider using natural sweeteners like honey and agave nectar. These ingredients will keep your shake sweet without exposing you to processed, industrially-refined sugar. Add natural sweeteners to taste; as a rule of thumb, start with the same amount of sweetener that's listed in the recipe, and work up or down from there. Consider substituting 1/4 cup condensed milk for the sugar or sweetener. This will keep the shake rich and sweet without using pure, processed sugar. Buy or make chocolate syrup. The brand doesn't matter: pick your favorite. The chocolate, again, is not an absolutely necessary ingredient, but it will add dimension to the taste of your shake. Consider substituting another dessert sauce--such as caramel or butterscotch--for the chocolate syrup if you cannot (or don't want to) eat chocolate. Be careful not to use too much chocolate syrup, or the shake might be too sweet. If you love chocolate, use more; if you're hesitant to rock the choc, consider adding less. Use crushed ice. You can buy ice from a store, but it may be cheaper to make your own. If your refrigerator dispenses crushed and cubed ice, hold a measuring cup below the dispenser until you've captured 3/4 of a cup. This is not a hard, fast rule for the amount of ice. Feel free to experiment. Blended, crushed ice will give your shake a thicker consistency, and it may temper the richness of the avocado and the milk. Mix the avocado, milk, ice, and sugar in a blender. Leave the chocolate syrup aside, for now. Cut the avocado in half, lengthwise, and use a knife or a spoon to scoop the fruit into the blender. The insides should be green, and perhaps vaguely yellow--but not brown. Slice away any brown bits and leave them out of your shake. Discard the lumpy skin on the outside and the hard pit in the center. Slice a grid into the avocado, crisscrossing grooves all the way through the fruit, to make the fruit easier to remove. Use as much of the avocado as you like, though as a general rule, half an avocado makes two servings. If you want to garnish the rim of the shake glasses with an avocado slice or two, then save at least a quarter of an avocado. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is no longer chunky. Make sure to secure the lid of your blender before firing up the machine. This may take anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes. Keep an eye on the shake while it's blending. You may need to hold the lid down to keep it from jostling loose. Keep checking the consistency until it's done. With the blender off, use a spoon to stir the mixture and check for lumpy bits. If you find any large chunks of avocado or ice, replace the lid and blend for another 10-15 seconds. If it's your first time making an avocado shake--and even if it isn't--sample the mixture as you go. Feel free to change the recipe to meet your tastes: add more milk for a thinner shake; more avocado, ice, or ice cream for a thicker shake; more sugar or sweetener for a sweeter shake. As you interact with the recipe and consider what you like, you'll get better and better at making avocado shakes. Line the sides of your glasses with chocolate syrup, and pour the puree into the glasses. The chocolate syrup is optional. It will, however, lend an exciting, sweet dimension to the flavor of the shake, and it adds character to the shake's appearance. Garnish the shake. Decorate the rim of the glass with extra avocado chunks. Scoop ice cream or cherries into the shake to make it a little bit sweeter. Consider drizzling honey or agave nectar onto the surface of the shake for an extra-sweet kick. Consider garnishing with whipped cream or cool whip. Consider sprinkling crushed nuts on top of the shake; this may work well with the naturally nutty flavor of the avocado. If you're making shakes for small children, make sure that the nut chunks aren't too large. Consider salting the shake, lightly, if you're into sweet-and-salty desserts--but don't go overboard! Enjoy! Be sure to save any leftover avocado. If you have any leftover avocado, you can store it in the refrigerator for two or three days Keep the avocado in a clean, airtight container, and sprinkle it with citrus juice--lemon or lime--to preserve its freshness. If you don't want to use citrus (this can make for a slimy avocado), store the opened-up avocado with a piece of cut-up onion. Either option should keep an avocado relatively fresh for 1-3 days--but the sooner you eat it, the better. You can compost or discard the skin, the pit, and any other avocado bits that you don't want to save. If you want to use the pit to grow your own avocado tree , then save it, clean it, and use toothpicks to prop it with the round end half-submerged in a glass of water. The avocado pit should begin to sprout a taproot, slowly, and it should be ready to plant in 3-4 weeks. | Buy an avocado. . Buy sugar. Buy or make chocolate syrup. Use crushed ice. Mix the avocado, milk, ice, and sugar in a blender. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is no longer chunky. Line the sides of your glasses with chocolate syrup, and pour the puree into the glasses. Garnish the shake. Enjoy! |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Blindfold | How to Make a Blindfold | You can easily make your own blindfold from a bandana or another piece of square fabric. All you need to do is fold it in half to form a triangle. Then, fold the corner over to make a long strip. Put it on your head and tie the ends in a knot. Alternatively, make a blindfold from paper and elastic. First, get a sheet of A4 paper and mark a point 2 ½ inches in from the middle of both short sides. Then, measure an elastic strip to make sure it fits around your head and staple or glue the ends to each point you made on the paper. To wear the blindfold, just place the paper over your face and stretch the elastic behind your head. | Purchase or use an old bandana. It's very possible that you have an old bandana lying around the house, but if not, visit your local craft or fabric store and purchase a bandana. You can get them in almost every color, and they should be all the same size. Make a square with the bandana. Lay out the material on a table or on the floor and make a square with the material that is 22 inches by 22 inches. Most bandanas come shaped as a square and usually have measurements close to 22 inches by 22 inches. However, if your bandana is larger than this, simply fold down each side until it measures 22 inches. You can use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew each side of the bandana if it is too large. This will keep the sides in place and make it easier to construct a blindfold. You can also glue down the sides with tacky glue, hot glue, or simply fold them over and readjust them anytime they start to become unfolded. Fold the bandana in half to make a triangle. After you have achieved your right size square, fold the bandana over so the corner of one side reaches the corner of the other side. This should make a triangle shape. If you have folded your bandana and it resembles a rectangle unfold it and refold it to look like a triangle. You are basically taking the 90 degree angle, or tip, of one side and folding it directly over so it meets the 90 degree angle, or tip, of the other side. Fold the corner facing you. With the tip of the triangle pointed down, fold the corner two to three inches up, so that the tip now points towards the top of the triangle. Continue to fold the bandana. Just like the previous step, you will fold the bandana again two to three inches towards the top of the triangle. When you have done this action, it will now look somewhat like a long, narrow rectangle. Continue to fold the bandana like this, making folds that are about two to three inches, until you have reached the top of the bandana. The bandana should then look a very long, flat, upside down trapezoid. Tie the bandana on your head. Once you have folded the bandana, pick it up by both ends, wrap it around your head over your eyes, and tie it in the back with a double knot. Then, check to make sure you can't see anything through the bandana, below it, or above it. If you find that you are able to see through the bandana, you might need a darker bandana or one that is thicker so it won't be so transparent. If the bandana is covering your eyes but you are able to see the ground, then you might have made the bandana too narrow. Unfold it back to the triangle and begin folding it again up towards the top of the triangle, but make bigger folds -- closer to three inches. Gather your materials. Visit your local fabric store to buy some fabric, or use fabric you have at home. The fabric should be about eight inches by nine inches, or a larger piece of fabric will work. You will also need a piece of elastic that is long enough to wrap around your head with a little extra. If your fabric scraps are smaller than the above dimensions no worries! Just sew them together to make a rectangle about that size. This will create a blindfold with mismatched fabric, but that could be fun! Depending on what you are using your blindfold for will determine what kind of fabric you use. If this blindfold is for fun and games, any kind of fabric works, but if you are using it to sleep in, a softer fabric like felt or satin might be more comfortable. The elastic can be a thick piece or a thin piece, but make sure when you wrap it around your head there is no slack. If there is slack, when you sew it into your blindfold the band won't stay around your head and so your blindfold will keep falling down. Fold your fabric in half. Take the sides of the fabric that are eight inches and fold them in half, creating a rectangle that is four inches by nine inches. Place elastic band inside the fabric. Open up the fold you created and take the strip of elastic and place it inside the fabric lying in the middle of the side of your bandana that will be in the back. Leave about an extra inch of elastic side on each side of the fabric Fold the fabric back over and you should see one inch of elastic sticking out of each side. To make sure this correctly fits around your head, flip the fabric over with the elastic on the outside and put it around your head, holding the edges of the elastic to the fabric in the same place you put them earlier. If it seems like there is too much slack in your elastic, you might cut a shorter piece, still leaving an inch or sew sticking out of the sides of the fabric. Sew a piece of elastic in the middle of the blindfold. To create a wavy crease in the middle of your blindfold that will rest in between your eyes along your nose, cut a two inch piece of elastic and place it vertically in the middle of your blindfold, gathering your blindfold underneath it so it creates little creases or waves. Sew along the elastic. This is not a necessary step, but will keep your blindfold from being a flat piece of fabric. Sew around the edges. Using a needle and thread, or a sewing machine, sew a line around the sides of your fabric, sewing over the elastic. However, you need to leave a hole about an inch or two wide on the bottom of your mask so that you can turn it inside out. Start by sewing at the crease of the fabric, where it is flipped over, and sew along the side of the fabric through the elastic. Turn the corner and sew along the bottom of the blindfold until you are about half an inch to an inch away from the center of the blindfold. Then begin from the opposite side and start by sewing again at the crease until you are once again about half an inch to an inch away from the center of the blindfold. Flip it right side out. Once you have sewn your fabric, leaving a one inch hole at the bottom, you can flip it so the right side is on the outside. Do this by taking the fabric and putting it through the hole. This may take some maneuvering, but you will eventually get all of the fabric through the hole and then it will be the right side of the blindfold. Sew it shut. Now that you have turned your blindfold to the right side, it's time to sew it shut. Make sure the fabric is folded under so that the ragged edges don't show, and sew a line of thread along the hole, as close to the edge of the blindfold as possible. Add any embellishments to your blindfold. You may be satisfied with how your blindfold looks, but if you want to fancy it up a bit, add a bow or bedazzle it. This part is totally up to your creativity! If you want your blindfold to look more like an eye mask, follow the same steps, but cut your fabric in the shape of an eye mask after your first fold. Then, continue the same steps such as sewing around it, leaving a hole, sewing the elastic to it, ect. Grab a piece of card stock or computer paper and some elastic. This blindfold is going to look more like a face mask rather than just a blindfold, but it fulfills the purpose if it is being used for something like a party game. You won't want to sleep in it though! Although computer paper is fine, card stock will be better because it's more sturdy and won't fold and wrinkle as easily. Using a darker colored piece of paper will create a better blindfold, but if you only have white, then double it up by using two pieces and tape, glue, or staple them together. Lay the paper vertically on a table. Taking a pencil, mark about 2 and a half inches on each side from the top of the paper. This will be where you will attach your elastic. Attach your elastic. Taking your elastic, making sure it fits snuggly around your head with about an inch on each side to spare, attach it to your paper. The best way to do this for the most secure attachment is using a stapler. Attach it to the edge of your paper, where you previously marked the two inches. Your staples can be any direction, but the best way to staple the elastic is to have the staple set horizontally along the elastic. You can staple it perpendicular to the elastic, but it won't hold the elastic as well and you will risk the elastic slipping out of it. Try it on. After you've finished your blindfold, try it on and see how it fits. If it doesn't fit exactly right, then detach the elastic and staple it again so that the blindfold fits perfectly. You can decorate this blindfold as well or if you want it be more comfortable, glue a strip of batting to the back of it where your eyes rest. This blindfold is probably one of the easiest to make, but it may not be the most practical -- you may be able to see the floor with it, but if what you're using it for allows that, then it's okay. | Purchase or use an old bandana. Make a square with the bandana. Fold the bandana in half to make a triangle. Fold the corner facing you. Continue to fold the bandana. Tie the bandana on your head. Gather your materials. Fold your fabric in half. Place elastic band inside the fabric. Sew a piece of elastic in the middle of the blindfold. Sew around the edges. Flip it right side out. Sew it shut. Add any embellishments to your blindfold. Grab a piece of card stock or computer paper and some elastic. Lay the paper vertically on a table. Attach your elastic. Try it on. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Aesthetic-Nurse | How to Become an Aesthetic Nurse | If you want to become an aesthetic nurse, first get either an associate's or a bachelor's degree in nursing, then apply to your state board for a license. Once you're approved, take and pass the NCLEX-RN, which is the exam required to become a Registered Nurse. As an RN, work at least 1000 hours within 2 years under a board-certified plastic surgeon, then take the certification exam offered by the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board, or PCNBC. | Earn your high school diploma or GED. In order to be accepted into a nursing program, you'll need to have either your high school diploma or an equivalent certificate, like the GED. If you're still in high school, try to focus on science-based classes like anatomy, biology, chemistry, and psychology to give you a better foundation for your medical studies. Courses in math and statistics may also help prepare for your college classes. Depending on the university you plan to attend, you'll also likely need to take a college entrance exam like the SATs or the ACT. Enroll in an RN program at an accredited college. To become an RN , you can enroll in either a 2-year associate's (ADN) or a 4-year bachelor's program (BSN). Both will provide you with the training that you need, but a BSN will involve more academic and in-depth medical courses, and it may be preferred by some employers. Either way, make sure that the program is accredited within your state; otherwise your degree may not be considered valid by your state nursing board. Typically, a school will advertise on its website or brochures whether it is accredited. You can also check whether the program is accredited through CCNE, or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, by visiting their website at https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE-Accreditation/Overview-of-Accreditation/Find-Accredited-Programs. When you're looking at different schools, ask about their NCLEX-RN passing rate. Try to find a school with a passing rate of 70% or higher, as this indicates that the program prepares its students well for the exam. Study hard and complete all of your coursework and clinicals. Nursing school is well-known for being difficult, and you often must maintain a certain grade point average, or GPA, in order to continue. Take thorough notes in all of your classes, and set aside time each day to read through your notes and your textbook. Also, pay careful attention in clinicals, since you'll be gaining important hands-on experience. To prepare for tests, use your notes, flash cards, and practice quizzes so you'll be familiar with the material. It's also usually a good idea to form or join a study group. Not only will you have other people who may be able to clarify anything you don't understand, but the social support can be really valuable during difficult times. Submit your license application to your state board after you graduate. Each state has its own board of nursing, so after graduation, you'll need to send a license application to the board in the state where you plan to work. As part of the application, have your official transcripts sent to the board, and submit to a criminal background check and fingerprinting. Any further instructions should be included in your application packet. You can find the contact information for various state nursing boards here: https://www.allnursingschools.com/articles/nursing-state-boards/. If you plan to work in more than one state, you'll either need to apply for an individual license for each state, or you can obtain a multi-state license, known as a Nurse Licensure Compact, or NLC. Take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. If the state board determines that you're eligible for a nursing license, they'll send you a packet or email containing instructions on how to register for the NCLEX-RN, which is the exam you have to take to become an RN. The packet will include instructions on how to pay the registration fee and a code, called an Authorization to Test (ATT), that will allow you to sign up. Once you sign up, use practice quizzes, study books, flashcards, and prep courses to help you study for the exam, and start studying at least 3-4 weeks before the exam. The NCLEX-RN is a multiple-choice test that's administered on the computer. It will cover a range of subjects testing your medical knowledge, including different disorders and their treatments, health promotion, and management of care. The fees for the NCLEX-RN vary by state. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) provides test plans for the NCLEX exam. These can be a valuable study aid, since they outline what will be covered and will help you become familiar with the test layout. You can view those test plans here: https://www.ncsbn.org/testplans.htm. Wait 45 days and re-test if you don’t pass the first time. The NCLEX-RN is graded pass or fail, but if you don't get a passing score on the first try, don't worry. Different states have different rules regarding taking the test again, but in general, you can take it as many times as you want. You just have to wait 45 days between tests, and you'll have to pay the fee again. Double-check with your state board for further instructions. Follow state regulations for renewing your license. Once you become a licensed nurse, you'll need to keep your license current to continue practicing in the field. Depending on the state you live in, you may be required to submit a renewal application every year or every other year. Typically, the requirements for renewal include some form of continuing education credits. Create a resume listing your nursing skills. Nurses are typically in high demand, so once you're licensed, you'll likely encounter plenty of job opportunities. To ensure you make a good impression on your application, take some time to create a neat, professional resume, highlighting your education, any relevant work experience (such as clinicals, summer jobs, or internships), and any particular skills you have. For instance, you might want to include whether you were a part of any special clubs or received any academic awards while you were in school. Try to find a position working for a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. You'll need to work as an RN for about 3-5 years to gain the experience you'll need to earn your nurse aesthetician certificate. Since cosmetic nursing is a highly-competitive field, having relevant work experience, such as working in a plastic surgery clinic, another medical-surgical field, or a dermatologists' office, will make you stand out among other applicants later on. While you'll need at least 2 years of plastic surgical nursing experience under a board-certified physician, don't worry if you don't find a position doing that right away. Find a position assisting in a different type of surgery if you can, then move into that field when something becomes available. Work at least 1000 hours under a supervising plastic surgeon. In order to get your Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) certificate, you'll have to have at least 1000 working hours of plastic surgical nursing experience within the 2 years prior to the certification exam. During this time, you'll assist in surgical procedures, and you may administer treatments such as fillers and liposuction under the physician's supervision. Your supervising physician will need to endorse your CANS application. Take and pass the PCNCB certification exam. The CANS certification exam is administered by the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board, or PCNCB. Spend 3-4 weeks reviewing the textbook issued by the PCNCB to ensure you'll be prepared for the exam, which will cover subjects such as aesthetic injectables, light- and laser-based therapies, and skin care. For more information about what will be found on the test, visit http://psncb.org/multimedia/files/CANS/Test-Specifications.pdf. The test is offered throughout the year at locations across the U.S. The cost is $295 if you're not a member of the PCNCB, and $195 if you are a member. Find work as an aesthetic nurse once you're certified. Once you receive your CANS certificate, you'll be ready to find a position as a cosmetic nurse. While this field does have high competition, your skills will be in demand at plastic and cosmetic surgery clinics, dermatologists' offices, medical spas, and other offices that offer fillers, liposuction, and cosmetic procedures. Check job boards online or contact clinics directly to find places that are seeking an aesthetic nurse. Renew your certification every 3 years. In order to maintain your CANS license, you'll need to recertify by either retaking the exam or through continuing education. If you opt for continuing education, you'll need 45 credit hours, which must be issued by an accredited program. 30 of those hours must be related to plastic surgery, ophthalmology, dermatology, or facial plastic surgery. You'll also need at least 2 hours related to patient safety. Enroll in an accredited graduate-level program if you want to become an NP. If you want to continue advancing your career, you might consider becoming a Nurse Practitioner. As an NP, you'll be able to diagnose patients and prescribe medicine to them, and you'll have more responsibilities. In some areas, you may even be able to practice without physician supervision. In a graduate-level cosmetic nursing program, you'll study the biology of the skin, including different skin conditions and the treatments for those conditions. You'll also study burn care, reconstructive surgery, and other skin-related procedures. | Earn your high school diploma or GED. Enroll in an RN program at an accredited college. Study hard and complete all of your coursework and clinicals. Submit your license application to your state board after you graduate. Take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Wait 45 days and re-test if you don’t pass the first time. Follow state regulations for renewing your license. Create a resume listing your nursing skills. Try to find a position working for a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Work at least 1000 hours under a supervising plastic surgeon. Take and pass the PCNCB certification exam. Find work as an aesthetic nurse once you're certified. Renew your certification every 3 years. Enroll in an accredited graduate-level program if you want to become an NP. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Cheese-Pizza | How to Make Cheese Pizza | To make cheese pizza, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an oven tray with oil, flour, or cornmeal to prevent the pizza from sticking to the tray. Place your dough on the tray and spread a thin layer of sauce across the dough, leaving an inch around the edge of the crust uncovered. Top the sauce with cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan. Then, place your pizza in the oven for 15 minutes. | Activate your yeast in warm water. Add your yeast and sugar to the water (it should feel warm to the touch, but not warm enough to burn you) and lightly stir it. Let it sit for 6-7 minutes, until you see small bubbles forming at the surface of the water. Activating the yeast is feeding it -- it eats the sugar and drinks the water. The bubbles are carbon dioxide made when the yeast "breathes." Transfer the yeast to a large mixing bowl and add salt and flour. Pour the flour in a little bit at a time, adding more as it absorbs the water and yeast. Use one hand to add the flour and the other to mix it. Add olive oil to the dough once you've added the flour. This keeps the dough from sticking to the bowl or your hands and keeps moisture in. Keep mixing until the dough is glossy and tacky, but not sticky. Pinch a small amount and stretch it thin enough so light passes through. If the dough doesn't rip, it's ready to kneed. Knead the dough. With the dough still in the bowl, use one hand to gather the dough together, then press firmly into the center of the dough with the heel of your hand. Fold the far edge of the dough upwards and towards you, press your hand in again, and repeat. Continue the "press-fold-turn" for 3-4 minutes, or until your dough holds its shape without you touching it. If the dough is moist or sticky, sprinkle additional flour over the top and on your hands. Leave the dough alone for 1 hour to rise. If you need more time, you can put the dough in the refrigerator, where it takes 4-5 hours to rise. The dough will be roughly twice as big when it finishes rising as when it started. Set the dough out on a floured countertop. Sprinkle two or three tablespoons of flour on a cutting board out counter to prevent the dough from sticking. If you are making two smaller pizzas, cut the dough ball in half. Using your fingers, pull and flatten the dough into a crust. Use your palm to push the dough ball into a disc, then use your fingers to push and pull the dough flat. This process takes some practice, but go slowly and use your fingers to massage the pizza into your desired crust shape. When done, fold 1/2 inch of the edge back over to create the crust. Work from the center of the dough outward to avoid ripping the dough. Toss you dough for a perfect, round crust if you feel confident. While you can make great crusts without the famous "pizza toss," there is something satisfying about prepping your crust like the experts. Make a fist and drape the flattened dough over it. Make a fist of the other hand and slip it under the dough next to your other fist. Carefully move your fists apart stretching the dough more. Shift your fists (left towards your face, right away) so the dough rotates while stretching. When the dough has reached about 8 inches (20cm) in diameter, you can quickly move your left fist in an arc that goes backwards towards your face. Do this while twisting your right fist forward away from your face. If you give a a little push upwards with your right fist the dough will spin like a Frisbee. Practice how it feels to balance the force of the twists equally. Be sure to catch the falling, dough as gently as you can by lowering your fists as the pizza falls. If you notice that the dough is tearing, combine, kneed it again for 30 seconds, and start over. Heat large skillet with the olive oil on medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. The onions should be translucent, or slightly clear, around the edges. You can add chopped spicy or belle peppers too for a hotter sauce, or finely chopped carrots and celery for a sweeter sauce. Pour in the canned tomatoes. If you want a smoother sauce, use only pureed tomatoes. Add herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well. Bring the sauce briefly to a boil. Heat the sauce so that large bubbles are breaking on the surface, then lower the heat to a simmer. Stir regularly. Let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes to an hour. The longer the sauce simmers, the richer and thicker it will become. Sample the sauce and reseason if needed. Many pizza sauces are sweeter, so some cooks add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar. Fresh basil or rosemary can also add new depths to a pizza sauce. Cool the sauce and puree if desired. Pour the cooled sauce into a food processor and puree it to remove any large chunks of tomato or onion. This step is not necessary if you want a more rustic pizza in the end. Alternatively, try a white sauce or garlic oil. While red sauce is the "classic," there are lots of other ways to top a cheese pizza. Try a white sauce, or simply sautee 2-3 cloves of garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and use the oil instead of sauce for garlic cheese pizza. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an oven tray or sheet with oil, flour, or cornmeal. This will prevent the pizza from sticking to the tray when it is done. cornmeal, which is found at most supermarkets, is the classic "restaurant style" ingredient. If you are using a pizza stone, apply the cornmeal and then put the stone in the oven to pre-heat. Prepare your dough on a non-stick surface. If your pizza stone is pre-heating, put a little flour on the countertop and lay out your dough. If you are using a regular tray simply put your dough right on the surface. Spread a thin layer of sauce across your dough. Leave an inch of dough around the edge of the crust uncovered. Top the sauce with your cheese. Sprinkle your cheese blend evenly across the sauce. While mozzarella is the most frequent pizza cheese, try mixing in shredded Romano, Parmesan, provolone, Asiago, or a few dollops of Ricotta. Bake the pizza in the oven for 15 minutes. If you are baking two pizzas at once and they are on different oven racks, switch them halfway through cooking to ensure that both cook evenly. | Activate your yeast in warm water. Transfer the yeast to a large mixing bowl and add salt and flour. Add olive oil to the dough once you've added the flour. Knead the dough. Leave the dough alone for 1 hour to rise. Set the dough out on a floured countertop. Using your fingers, pull and flatten the dough into a crust. Toss you dough for a perfect, round crust if you feel confident. Heat large skillet with the olive oil on medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Pour in the canned tomatoes. Add herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce briefly to a boil. Let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes to an hour. Sample the sauce and reseason if needed. Cool the sauce and puree if desired. Alternatively, try a white sauce or garlic oil. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an oven tray or sheet with oil, flour, or cornmeal. Prepare your dough on a non-stick surface. Spread a thin layer of sauce across your dough. Top the sauce with your cheese. Bake the pizza in the oven for 15 minutes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deworm-a-Ferret | How to Deworm a Ferret | If you're worried that your ferret has worms, it's important that you take it to the vet so they can figure out what kind of worms it has and recommend the best treatment plan. The vet will likely prescribe an oral medication that you can administer at home. However, they might prescribe an injectable medication, in which case you'll need to bring your ferret back in at a later date for follow-up shots. Once your ferret is worm free, there are things you can do to prevent worms from coming back, like keeping it indoors and not feeding it raw meat. Additionally, consider giving your ferret a heartworm and flea preventative once a month to help prevent heartworms and tapeworms. | Visit the vet if you think your ferret has worms. All forms of worms need to be treated by your vet. While most worms can be easily addressed, you'll need an exam to make sure your ferret gets the correct diagnosis. This will allow your vet to prescribe the right medication and dosage. Give an oral or injectable medication for other forms of worms. Luckily, most other worms can be easily treated. Your vet will decide what prescription and dosage your ferret needs. Follow your vet's instructions on administering oral meds at home to make sure your ferret gets better. If your vet prescribes an injectable medication, they'll give them the first shot while you're at the clinic. You'll need to bring your ferret back to their office for any necessary follow-up shots. Common deworming medications include mebendazole and ivermectin. Ivermectin can be given orally or via shot. Understand the risks of heartworm. Unfortunately, there's no cure for heartworm, which is spread by mosquitoes. These parasites can lead to the development of a fatal heart disease in many animals. There is no approved treatment available for ferrets that will reliably improve their health. To keep your ferret healthy, you should instead take steps to prevent heartworm. Heartworm is spread by mosquito bites, so protecting your ferret from mosquitos will prevent heartworm. Make sure that you also keep any dogs or cats in your home up to date on their heartworm tests and prevention. Monitor your ferret's symptoms after treatment. Your ferret's health should improve quickly once they've been treated. Take their weight daily to make sure they're gaining back any losses. Call your vet right away if they stop eating, appear tired, or show signs of an upset stomach. These could all be signs that the worms haven't been eliminated, or that they've caused internal damage. Check for worms during your ferret's first visit to the vet. Unlike kittens and puppies, baby ferrets (called kits) won't be automatically treated for worms because worms are relatively uncommon in ferrets. Whether you're taking a kit or an older ferret to the vet for the first time, bring along a stool sample to give the vet for testing. Your vet will only treat for worms if the sample tests positive. Ask your vet how they'd like you to collect the stool sample. Most will recommend using a small plastic bag to gather a fresh sample as close to your visit as possible. Label the bag in permanent marker with your name and your ferret's name, as well as the date. Use gloves and wash your hands immediately after handling your ferret's feces. Observe your ferret's coat. Worm infestations, including an intestinal worm called trichinosis, may cause your ferret's coat to become dull. That is why it is a good idea to check your ferret's coat regularly to check for changes. Weigh your ferret to see if it has lost weight. Other forms of worms, including hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, flukes, and lungworms, usually cause ferrets to lose weight. Use a kitchen scale to weigh your ferret. Keep your hands just above the ferret and speak to it gently to keep it calm and still. Adult male ferrets usually weigh between 2 to 5 pounds (0.91 to 2.27 kg), and females generally weigh between 1 to 2 pounds (0.45 to 0.91 kg). If you don't know your ferret's normal weight, call your vet to find out what it weighed at its last checkup. Look in their cage for signs of diarrhea or infrequent urination. Most worms will also make your ferret develop diarrhea and runny droppings. Ferrets affected by flukes, an intestinal worm, may also have trouble urinating. You should be aware of what your ferret's droppings normally look like to get a good comparison. It's also important to know how often your ferret usually urinates. Watch for signs of an upset stomach. If your ferret has diarrhea or is vomiting, its stomach is probably hurting. You may also notice that your ferret isn't as interested in its food. This is especially typical with intestinal worms like flukes. Be sure to also check if your ferret has a pot belly. This could indicate that a worm has taken up residence! Keep your ferret indoors. Since worms are spread through animal feces and raw meat that your ferret could easily eat in the great outdoors, the easiest way to prevent worms is to make your ferret indoor-only. Ferrets are perfectly happy to stay inside so long as they have enough toys and interaction time to entertain them. Do not give your ferret uncooked meat. While small pieces of cooked meat can make good treats for ferrets, they should not have raw meat. While uncontaminated raw meat won't hurt them, it's impossible for you to tell whether raw meat is worm-free. Prevent your ferret from eating cat or dog feces. If your dog has an accident in the house, quickly clean it up. Keep your cat's litter box in a place that your ferret can't get to, or put the box and your cat in a separate room when you let ferret out. If your ferret does consume dog or cat feces, call your vet and make an appointment to get them checked for worms. If your ferret and cat like to hang out together, you may not be able to put the cat's litter box away when your ferret is out of its cage. Instead, watch your ferret closely during these playtimes. Keep your other pets up to date on parasite prevention as well so that this will be less of a concern. Provide a heartworm preventative monthly. As with dogs and cats, the vet can prescribe monthly meds for your ferret to keep them from getting heartworm. It's especially important for them to get this treatment if you live in an area with lots of mosquitoes. Even if your ferret doesn't go outside, mosquitoes can get in your house and bite your furry little friend! Give your ferret flea medication to protect against tapeworms. Tapeworms are most commonly spread by fleas who have eaten tapeworm eggs. If that flea gets into your ferret's intestinal system, the eggs will hatch! The best way to prevent tapeworms, then, is to put your ferret on a monthly flea prevention medication. While fleas prefer dogs and cats, they'll live on a ferret as well. Get this prescription directly from your vet, as not all flea medications are safe for ferrets. | Visit the vet if you think your ferret has worms. Give an oral or injectable medication for other forms of worms. Understand the risks of heartworm. Monitor your ferret's symptoms after treatment. Check for worms during your ferret's first visit to the vet. Observe your ferret's coat. Weigh your ferret to see if it has lost weight. Look in their cage for signs of diarrhea or infrequent urination. Watch for signs of an upset stomach. Keep your ferret indoors. Do not give your ferret uncooked meat. Prevent your ferret from eating cat or dog feces. Provide a heartworm preventative monthly. Give your ferret flea medication to protect against tapeworms. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Improve-Your-Posture | How to Improve Your Posture | To improve your posture, practice sitting so your back makes a right angle with your thighs. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor and facing forward when you're sitting down. You can also try placing a small pillow behind the arch of your back when you're sitting down so you don't slouch forward. Once an hour, make sure to stand up from your seat and stretch so that you're keeping your spine healthy. | Find your center by standing up straight and tall. Keep your chin level with the ground, your shoulders back, and your stomach in. Let your arms fall naturally at your sides. Place your feet about shoulder-width apart, the same stance you would use for working out. Imagine a string holding you up. As you stand tall, imagine a string is coming from the ceiling, pulling you upwards. Keep your lower back inline, and don't move to your tiptoes. Visualization techniques like this one can guide your sense of the proper position you should be in. Use a wall to teach yourself correct posture. Stand with your back against a door or wall. Just touch the wall with the back of your head, your shoulders, and your butt. Your heels should be 2 to 4 inches (5.1 to 10.2 cm) away from the wall. Slide your hand behind your back to check for space. You should be able to slide your hand behind your back but only by a little bit. If you have more space than that, pull your bellybutton back towards your spine to help flatten your back a little. If you can't slide your hand behind your back, arch your back so that you can. Try to hold this position as you move away from the wall, rechecking as needed. Away from the wall, if you simply put your head back, tuck your chin in, and pull your abdominals in, then you will find that your spine, shoulders, and chest automatically go into the positions that they're supposed to be in for good posture. Think about it: If you put your head back and tuck your chin in, then your chest will automatically be out front. And the good change in spine position will automatically push your shoulders back, to the correct position, and encourage the proper curve to the middle of your back (near the bottom of the rib cage). Then, it becomes quick and easy to think: "Head back, chin tucked, abs in." Go back to the wall again and notice that the wall actually guides you to achieve this very posture of "Head back, chin tucked, abs in" Have someone tape an X on your back to help correct your posture. Make an "X" from your shoulders to your hips. Add a straight line of tape across your shoulders closing the top of the X. Wear this during the day to help retrain your back. This technique works really well if you hold your shoulders back before taping. Use a tape meant for skin, such as a medical tape. Instead of tape, you can buy a posture corrector online. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet. When you rest on your heels, your natural tendency will be to slouch. Instead, stand up straight, shifting your weight forward a bit. Now rock back so that your weight is on your heels. Notice the way your entire body shifts into a "slouchy" posture with this single motion. Walk as if you have a book balanced on your head. Imagining a book on your head will help you keep your head up and your back straight. If you're having trouble imagining it, try a real book for a few minutes. Have a good standing posture while moving. Walking with good posture is simply an extension of standing with good posture. Keep your head up, shoulders back, chest out, and eyes looking straight ahead while you walk. Avoid pushing your head forward. Pick supportive footwear for standing and walking. Choose shoes that have ample padding to help you hold yourself upright. In addition, make sure they have good arch support. Good posture starts with your feet. Avoid shoes with high heels, as they can change your body's alignment. If you're standing for long periods, add padding to the floor for additional comfort. Make sure your back is at a right angle to your thighs. Maintain your thighs at a right angle to your calves. Keep your shoulders straight and squared, your head upright, and your neck, back, and heels aligned. Align your back with the back of the office chair. This will help you avoid slouching or leaning forward, which you may find yourself doing after sitting too long at your desk. Check your posture by sitting on your hands. Put your hands under your sit bones while you are sitting on the floor. Make sure that your palms are facing down. Adjust your position until you can feel the weight centered on each of your palms. This is your optimal seated position. Adjust your legs and keep your feet flat while sitting. Your feet should be flat on the floor, facing forward. Don't cross your legs or ankles. Make your thighs parallel to the floor. If your feet don't touch the floor, use a footrest. Find a supportive chair to help you maintain good posture. Use a chair that's ergonomically designed for proper support, meaning it supports all of your back, even the curve at the bottom. Also, make sure it's designed for your height and weight. If you can't get a new ergonomic chair option, try using a small pillow for lumbar support in the small of your back. Adjust your computer monitor to help with your posture. If you work on computers at an office, angle the monitor slightly upward so that it forces you to sit up. However, don't set it so high that you push your chin out to see it. You may need to move your chair up or down if you can't angle the monitor properly. Adjust your chair and your position so that your arms are flexed, not straight out. Aim for roughly a 75- to 90-degree angle at the elbows. If they are too straight, you're too far back, and if they are more than 90 degrees, you're either sitting too close or you're slouching. Make adjustments to your seat to maintain good posture while driving. Adjust your seat to maintain a proper distance from the pedals and steering wheel. If you're leaning forward, pointing your toes, or reaching for the wheel, you're too far away. If you are bunched up with your chin on top of the steering wheel, you're too close. Use lumbar support for the curve of your back when possible. Adjust the head rest so the middle of your head rests against it. Your head shouldn't be more than 4 inches (10 cm) away from the headrest while driving. Keep your back against the seat and your head against the head rest. Your knees should be at the same level as your hips or slightly above. Good posture is also important for safety in the car. Your car's protective systems protect you best when you are sitting properly in the seat. Take standing breaks when you're sitting for long periods. Even if you're using perfect posture while sitting, you need to stand up and stretch or walk every hour or so. Just walking around the room or getting out of your car for a few minutes can help. If you tend to get engrossed in your work, set an alarm to remind yourself to take a break. In addition, these breaks are also good for your health as your body needs movement throughout the day. Provide support for your back with pillows while sleeping. No matter whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side, adding pillows can help provide support. Basically, you want to add a pillow anywhere there's a space between your body and the mattress. For instance, if you sleep on your stomach, which is the worst position for your back and posture, place a flat pillow under your stomach to provide support. Choose a flat pillow or no pillow for your head. If you sleep on your back, place a small pillow behind your knees, and choose a supportive pillow for your head. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees and pull them up towards your chest. Pick a pillow for your head that keeps your spine straight, or use a full body pillow. Turn your body as 1 unit when laying down. Avoid turning at your waist while you are in bed. Instead, keep your back straight and your stomach muscles tight, and turn your whole body when you want to reposition yourself. Sleep with good posture by choosing a comfortable mattress. While you may have heard that one mattress or another is best for a healthy back, the truth is whatever works for you is best. Choose one that lets you rest comfortably and wake up pain free. Remember to replace your mattress every decade or so. If your mattress isn't providing the support you need, add a board between the box springs and mattress, which should keep it from sagging. Improve your core muscles with deep abdominal stretching. Lie on your back, with your legs bent to about 90 degrees at the knee and your feet on the floor. Pull your bellybutton up towards your chest and hold it for 10 seconds. Your core muscles are essential to support your posture, so the more you can work them, the better your posture will be. Repeat 8 times, and practice it daily. Breathe normally during this exercise, as you are training your core to be able to maintain this position during normal activities in daily life. Do a shoulder blade squeeze. While sitting in a chair, sit up straight and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Hold for a count of 5, and then release. Repeat this 3 or 4 times daily. Train your muscles for better posture with strength training. Exercises that strengthen the muscles across your upper back and shoulders help you maintain good posture. Try the following strength exercise, with or without hand weights: Start by squaring your posture. Extend both arms straight out in front of you with your palms up. Bend your forearms toward your shoulders, trying to touch your shoulder blades with your fingertips. Do 10 repetitions with both arms, then alternate 10 reps for each arm by itself. Pretend you're a penguin to stretch your shoulders. While you wait for a web page to load or the bread to toast, place your elbows at your side, and touch your shoulders with your hands, creating your "penguin wings." Keeping your hands on your shoulders and your ears aligned, raise both elbows (count 1, 2) and lower them back down (count 1, 2). Do as many reps as your wait allows. You'll be surprised how many stretches fit into 30 seconds. Use stretching for a sore neck or back. Tilt or stretch your head in all 4 directions over your shoulders (forward, back, left, right), and gently massage your neck. Avoid rolling your head in a circle, as it may cause further strain. For another exercise, get on your hands and knees. Curl your back upwards, like a cat, and then do the opposite, dropping your stomach down and curling your back downwards. Repeat the exercises a few times each day. Doing them in the morning helps your body stretch out the muscle lethargy from sleep. Doing periodically throughout the day will help to raise your energy level. Practice yoga to increase flexibility and help with posture. Yoga is excellent for posture and for your health in general. It can also improve your balance. Yoga works your core muscles, making them stronger and helping you to keep a proper body alignment. Yoga will also help by teaching you how to hold an erect posture while sitting, standing, and walking. Look for classes in your area, or scout YouTube for instructional videos. | Find your center by standing up straight and tall. Use a wall to teach yourself correct posture. Have someone tape an X on your back to help correct your posture. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet. Walk as if you have a book balanced on your head. Pick supportive footwear for standing and walking. Make sure your back is at a right angle to your thighs. Check your posture by sitting on your hands. Adjust your legs and keep your feet flat while sitting. Find a supportive chair to help you maintain good posture. Adjust your computer monitor to help with your posture. Make adjustments to your seat to maintain good posture while driving. Take standing breaks when you're sitting for long periods. Provide support for your back with pillows while sleeping. Turn your body as 1 unit when laying down. Sleep with good posture by choosing a comfortable mattress. Improve your core muscles with deep abdominal stretching. Do a shoulder blade squeeze. Train your muscles for better posture with strength training. Pretend you're a penguin to stretch your shoulders. Use stretching for a sore neck or back. Practice yoga to increase flexibility and help with posture. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Harness-for-Your-Fat-Cat | How to Make a Harness for Your Fat Cat | To make a harness for your fat cat, start by measuring your cat around its neck and middle, and between its neck and the middle of its back. Then, go online to get a pattern for a cat jacket based on those measurements. Next, use the pattern to cut your fabric, lining, and interface, then sew the pieces together. After that, attach a D-ring to it the jacket to use as a tether for your cat's leash. Finally, sew Velcro onto the jacket so you can fasten it around your cat. | Take your cat’s measurements. Measure your cat in three places: the circumference of your cat's neck, near their shoulders (not near their throat where a collar would go); the length between your cat's neck to the middle of their rib cage (straight line); the circumference of your cat's chest around the middle of the rib cage. If you visualize these three measurements, you'll have two circles (one larger than the other) and a straight line between the two circles. For the sake of our example, let's assume our three measurements are 8”, 6” and 15”, where 8” and 15” are the two circle circumferences. Make a cat jacket pattern. A cat jacket is essentially a vest for your cat, with a D ring on the back for the leash clip. Instead of a zipper or buttons for closing the vest, as you'd find on the human version, you'll want to use velcro. Velcro allows for slight changes in your cat's size, and keeps the vest secured around your cat even if they pull on the leash. You can find and download a cat jacket pattern online , or you can make your own. To make your own, you'll need your cat's measurements, paper, a pencil, a ruler or measuring tape, and probably an eraser. The cat jacket will be assembled from two parts, but since all the parts are the same size and shape, you'll only need to draw one pattern. The paper you use will have to be at least as wide as your cat's larger circle measurement plus a couple of inches, and as tall as your cat's length measurement plus a couple of inches. In our example, you'll need a piece of paper at least 17” wide and 8” tall to be certain the pattern will fit on it. Alternatively, you can use two separate pieces of paper taped together. Since you don't need any special paper to draw a pattern, you could use a piece of a newspaper, the back of a poster, or something similar. The exact shape and design of the cat jacket can be anything you want, but the important parts to remember is that each section you measured on your cat has to be the same size on the pattern. However, since you'll need to add velcro to the two circles that go around your cat, you'll need to make sure these flaps overlap each other so both sides of the velcro will touch. Add a ¼” seam allowance to your pattern. In order to ensure you cut your fabric large enough, you need to add ¼” to the perimeter of your pattern. This ¼” space will be the distance between the very edge of your fabric and where the stitches will be. Once the pattern is complete, cut it out and test it on your cat. If any sections don't fit, draw a new pattern and try again. Buy the jacket-specific items. For this jacket you will need to obtain enough fabric (outside) and lining (inside) for the size of the jacket you're making. You will also require interfacing, nylon webbing, a D ring, thread (in a colour that matches your fabric), and sew-on hook & loop velcro. If you prefer, you can use regular fabric as the lining, in which case you'll need enough fabric to cut out 2 full sections using the pattern. You can use any type of fabric you want, but you may find lightweight cotton to be the easiest to sew. And it comes in the largest selection of patterns and colours. An alternative to cotton for the outside of the jacket could be polar fleece - which comes in a multitude of colours as well. In this case you might consider a satin-like material for the lining. Interface fabric is normally used to strengthen or thicken another type of fabric. As such it is not a requirement for the jacket unless you feel you need to reinforce the fabric you're using. If you want to use interfacing, make sure it is the same weight, or less, than the fabric you're using. If you decide to use cotton, you'll want to look for standard non-woven interfacing. If you're using polar fleece, which is stretchy, you'll want to look for knit interfacing. The nylon webbing needs to be at least as long as the middle, straight-line measurement you took of your cat. Ideally you should pick a colour that matches your fabric. The thickness of the webbing is really up to you, based on the look you want, what might match your fabric, and how heavy your cat is. The thicker the webbing, the harder it will be to sew to the jacket using your sewing machine's “normal” needle. The D ring needs to be at least wide enough to allow the nylon webbing to be placed through it. For example, if you buy a D ring that's ½” wide, your nylon webbing has to be ½” wide as well, and vice versa. Gather your general sewing items. In order to make this cat jacket, you'll need a sewing machine, iron, measuring tape, scissors and straight pins. You can pick-up a measuring tape, scissors and straight pins at your local sewing/fabric store. If you do not have either an iron or a sewing machine, consider asking a friend if you can borrow one or both items. You could make the cat jacket using hand sewing and not a sewing machine, if you have no way to obtain a sewing machine. However, it might not be a strong as one made with a sewing machine. Cut out your fabric, lining and interface. Layout your fabric pieces flat on a table, with the grain of the fabric going up and down (i.e. vertical) in front of you. Pin the pattern to the fabric using straight pins. Cut the fabric to be the size of the pattern plus the ¼” seam allowance. As a tip, you can lay your piece of fabric, plus your piece of lining material, plus your interfacing material, all on top of each other and pin the pattern through all three layers. Then when you cut out the shape, you can cut all three pieces in one step. If these three layers are too thick (i.e. the pin can't easily go through them plus the pattern), you'll have to do them separately. Sew the fabric pieces together. Remember that when you sew items that have a top and a bottom (in this case an outside and an inside) you sew the items together inside-out. Line up your fabric pieces appropriately and sew the perimeter of the fabric, except for approximately 4” along the neck, which will be used to turn the fabric right-side-out. Once all the pieces are sewn together, and turned them right-side-out, sew the 4” gap closed using hand-stitching. As an alternative to interfacing, you could stuff the inside of the jacket with batting to give it a puffy, down-like look! You could even sew a criss-cross pattern on top of the vest, after it's completed, to add to the effect. Add the D ring and webbing to the back of the jacket. The nylon webbing needs to be sewn to the back of the jacket, where your cat's spine would be. But before sewing the nylon webbing down, make sure you've threaded the D ring through with the rounded edge sticking out. Since you want this part to be strong, use your sewing machine to sew the nylon webbing to the back of the jacket. Note that some nylon webbing can be quite thick. If you've decided to use really thick webbing, make sure you have the proper needle in your sewing machine. Sew the velcro pieces to the jacket. The velcro is used to fasten the two circles of the jacket around your cat. Velcro can be purchased at any sewing/fabric store but for the jacket make sure the velcro is not the adhesive kind. While you could technically sew adhesive velcro onto the jacket, the adhesive itself can get onto your needle and ruin the inner workings of your sewing machine. Remember that when the two sets of flaps go around your cat, they're going to overlap each other. So one piece of velcro needs to be on the inside of a flap and the other piece needs to be on the outside of a flap. If you're an experienced seamstress, you could use some other type of closure other than velcro - buttons, a zipper, hooks, etc. Put the jacket on your cat. Make sure it's velcroed securely, but that you're still able to slide 2 fingers underneath each circle. Have your cat wear the harness around the house for a while to get use to it, and show it off to everyone. When ready, clip a leash to the D ring and take your cat outside for some sunshine and fresh air! Not all cats are going to tolerate a jacket or harness right away. There are methods you can use to help train your cat to wear a harness, but beware of your cat's limits. If these training methods don't appear to be working, or your cat is really stressed and upset, you should stop and consult a veterinarian before continuing. Let your cat get to know the jacket. Put it down for them and let them sniff it. Give them treats while you do this. Associate positive things (like treats) with the harness so they aren't scared. Lay the jacket over your cat, but don't connect the velcro pieces. Feed them treats at the same time to keep them in a good mood. Do this a few times until they don't appear overly nervous. After they're use to the feel of something on their back, put the harness on and connect the velcro pieces. Again, do this while giving them treats and praising them. Some cats might simply walk around like nothing happened, others might try to fight the jacket or pretend like they can't move. Leave the harness on for a little while, or until your cat is too upset. Repeat this several times, increasing the length of time your cat wears the harness. When you feel you cat is ready, attach the leash, carry him/her outside, and let them walk around. Always supervise your cat while they're outside. Take your cat’s measurements. Measure your cat in three places: the circumference of your cat's neck, near their shoulders (not near their throat where a collar would go); the length between your cat's neck to the middle of their rib cage (straight line); the circumference of your cat's chest around the middle of the rib cage. If you visualize these three measurements, you'll have two circles (one larger than the other) and a straight line between the two circles. For the sake of our example, let's assume our three measurements are 8”, 6” and 15”, where 8” and 15” are the two circle circumferences. Gather all the required materials. For a paracord harness you'll need 2 plastic buckles, several packages of paracord, scissors and a candle. For our example measurements, we'll need at least 203” of paracord. The plastic buckles should be the type that is called a “side release” buckle. An example of what one would look like can be found here. Cut a piece of paracord for the ribcage circle. Because of the amount of paracord taken up by the stitching/knotting, you'll want to cut a piece of cord that's 7 times the length you need. In this case you need 15” for the finished circle, so you'll want a piece of cord that's 105” long. Fuse the tips of the paracord. Light the candle and put each tip or end of the paracord into the flame to melt it enough to form a solid seal - sort of like the ends of a shoelace. Melting and fusing the ends will make sure the paracord doesn't start to fray or unwind in the future. Do not fuse or melt two ends of a piece of paracord together. Attach the plastic buckle. Fold the paracord piece exactly in half (now you'll have 52.5” of paracord). Attach one side of the buckle to the end of the paracord that's folded (i.e. not the end that's in two pieces) by bringing the looped end of the paracord through the buckle attachment by about 1.5-2”, then threading the two loose ends through the loop and pulling tight. Knot the paracord using the cobra stitch. Starting at the end where you attached the buckle, use the cobra stitch until you get about ¼ of the way through the 52.5” length. For a step-by-step video on how to complete a cobra stitch, see here. Repeat for the shoulder circle. For this example, the shoulder circle is 8” around so we'll need a 56” length of paracord. Fuse both ends of the new piece of paracord using the candle. Fold the 56” long piece of paracord in half (28”). Attach the second plastic buckle to the looped end of the paracord piece. Knot the paracord using the cobra stitch until you're about ¼ of the way through the 28” length. Prepare the two circles for connection. Place the shoulder circle on the table in front of you to the right. Then place the ribcage circle on the table in front of your on the left. Make sure you can see all 4 pieces of loose paracord coming out of both partially stitched pieces. Loosen the left loop from the last stitch on the shoulder circle, and the right loop on the last stitch of the rib cage circle. Cut, fuse and attach paracord for middle section. This section is suppose to be 6” long when complete. Multiplied by 7 means you'll want to cut a length of paracord that's 42” long. Fuse both ends of the new piece using the candle. Fold the 42” length of paracord in half so it's 21” long. Using the same method as when you attached the previous paracord pieces to the buckle, attach the looped end of this piece to the loosened loop on the shoulder circle. Knot the middle section using the cobra stitch. Stitch the entire length of this section of paracord. Do not stop at the ¼ way mark. Attach the end of this section to the rib cage circle where you loosened the loop. Finish knotting both circles with the cobra stitch. Using the remaining paracord for both circles, finish knotting them using the cobra stitch. Attach the remaining parts of both buckles to the ends of the paracord circles. Test the harness out on your cat. Put the harness on your cat to test out the fit. Allow your cat to get use to his or her new harness and then take them outside for some fresh air. You can attach a leash clip directly to the paracord in the middle section, or you could attach a D ring to the middle section while you're doing the cobra stitch. | Take your cat’s measurements. Make a cat jacket pattern. Add a ¼” seam allowance to your pattern. Buy the jacket-specific items. Gather your general sewing items. Cut out your fabric, lining and interface. Sew the fabric pieces together. Add the D ring and webbing to the back of the jacket. Sew the velcro pieces to the jacket. Put the jacket on your cat. Take your cat’s measurements. Gather all the required materials. Cut a piece of paracord for the ribcage circle. Fuse the tips of the paracord. Attach the plastic buckle. Knot the paracord using the cobra stitch. Repeat for the shoulder circle. Prepare the two circles for connection. Cut, fuse and attach paracord for middle section. Knot the middle section using the cobra stitch. Finish knotting both circles with the cobra stitch. Test the harness out on your cat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Bleed-a-Radiator | How to Bleed a Radiator | Bleeding a radiator refers to the process of releasing the excess air that gets trapped in your car's pipes over time. Trapped air will cause the top of your radiator to become cold, so bleed your radiator whenever you notice the pipes at the top becoming much cooler than the pipes at the bottom. To bleed your radiator, you'll need to get a radiator key from your local hardware store. Depending on the model of your vehicle, you may be able also be able to use a flathead screwdriver, so check your owner's manual. Next, find your bleed valve by looking on each side of the radiator for a small valve at the top. Then, place a cloth or bucket underneath the bleed valve to catch any water that spills out. Grab a second bucket to hold directly under the bleed valve as you empty it. Next, insert your radiator key into the valve and slowly turn it counterclockwise. Continue to turn the key until you start to hear air escaping. When you do, take your hand off of the radiator key and leave it in the slot to let the radiator bleed. Once the sound of the air escaping starts to dissipate, water may leak out. Use your bucket to catch the water and wait for the air to finish escaping. Once the air is gone, turn the radiator key clockwise to close the bleed valve. Continue turning the key until it won't tighten any further to shut the valve and finish bleeding the radiator. | Diagnose your radiator. A radiator that needs bleeding has cool air trapped in its upper portions. Thus, when you turn on the heat, either the entire radiator will feel cold or the top of the radiator will feel cold while the bottom feels warm. Unfortunately, a cold radiator can also signify other problems. Before proceeding, check for these other common radiator issues listed below. If none seem to fit, your radiator probably needs a simple bleeding. Be careful - radiators can get quite hot. Protect your hands when you're feeling a radiator for warmth. If you have multiple radiators in your house and all of them are cold or lukewarm, you probably have a larger issue with your heating system - your water heater may be malfunctioning or you may have a buildup of sludge or sediment somewhere in your heating system (see: How to Flush a Water Heater. ) If your radiator problem is accompanied by an accumulation of water beneath the radiator, your radiator has a leak. Try turning your heat off, then tightening the nut(s) on your radiator's inlet valve. If this doesn't fix the problem, the nut may be corroded - replace them or call a professional. If the radiators on the upper floors of your house aren't heating up but the radiators on the lower floors are, your heating system may not be operating at a high enough pressure to get hot water to the top floors of your house. Find a radiator key. If you've decided to bleed your radiator your first step should be to find something to open the radiator's "bleed valve." Look for a small valve at the top of one end of your radiator. On this valve, there will usually be small square bit which can be turned to adjust the valve. Radiator keys, cheap metal implements designed for opening and closing radiator valves, are available at most hardware stores. Find a radiator key that's the correct size for your valve or, alternatively, search your tool chest for a small wrench or other tool that's the right size to turn the valve. Some modern radiators are equipped with valves that are designed to be turned with a simple flathead screwdriver. Before proceeding, make sure you have a radiator key, a screwdriver, a wrench or some combination of implements so that you'll be able to open the valves on every radiator in your house. When bleeding one radiator, it's best to bleed every one in a house. Turn off your heat. Ensure that your central heating is switched off before bleeding, as an active heating system can introduce more air into the system. You want your radiator's contents to settle completely before releasing the air trapped within. Allow time for the heat in your system to dissipate, then feel all over your radiator for heat. If any part of your radiator is still hot, wait for it to cool completely before proceeding to the next step. Open your radiator's valves. Ensure that both the intake and exit valves of the radiator are turned to the "open" position. Then, insert your radiator key (or screwdriver, etc.) into the the bleed screw in the bleed valve at the top of the radiator. Turn the screw counter-clockwise to open the valve. You should hear a hissing sound as air escapes from your radiator. Opening the bleed valve allows trapped cold air to escape, which is replaced with liquid from your heating system via the pipes connected to your heating system. Catch drips from the valve. As air escapes from your radiator, water will likely sputter from the bleed valve. Hold a kitchen towel or cloth under the bleed screw to catch any drips. Alternatively, use a small bowl or dish. Wait for water to squirt out of the bleed valve. When a steady stream of water (not a sputtering mixture of air and water droplets) squirts through the bleed valve, you've released all of the air trapped in your radiator. Re-tighten your bleed valve (turn the bleed screw clockwise) and ensure that there are no leaks. Use a rag to wipe up any water that's splashed around your radiator. Repeat this process on all the radiators in your house. To ensure all excess air has been drained from your heating system, it's best to bleed all of your radiators, even if you've only been having problems with one. For a well-maintained heating system, you should try bleeding your radiators regularly. An annual bleeding plus a bleeding after any repairs or modifications to your heating system is usually plenty. Check your boiler's pressure level. By releasing excess air from your radiators, you've lowered the overall pressure of your house's heating system. If the pressure's fallen too low, heat might not reach some of your radiators (especially ones on the top floors of your house.) To restore your heating system's pressure, it may be necessary to top off your boiler with water. For residential heating purposes, a pressure level of around 12-15 psi should suffice. The higher the pressure, the greater the height the height that heat from your system will be able to travel. Especially short or tall houses may require lesser or greater boiler pressure, respectively. If your boiler has an automatic fill system, your boiler should maintain a pressure reading of about 12-15 psi without any work on your part. If not, add water manually - open the boiler's water feed valve until the pressure gauge reads about 12-15 psi. Look for symptoms that your car's radiator isn't working. A car's radiator needs bleeding for the same reason that a home's radiator does - pockets of air have become trapped in the car's cooling system. This prevents antifreeze from circulating effectively, causing the car to overheat. If you observe one or more of the following symptoms, your car's radiator may need bleeding: Abnormally high temperature readings on your dashboard temperature meter. Fluid boiling out of your radiator. Odd smells from your engine, especially sweet smells (caused by antifreeze leaking and/or burning up.) Additionally, it can be a good idea to bleed your radiator after performing maintenance or part replacement on your cooling system. Air can be introduced to the system during maintenance work - keep an eye on your temperature gauge after modifying your cooling system in any way. Locate and loosen your car's bleeder valve. Some cars have bleeder valves incorporated into the cooling system which function by releasing trapped air, just like the bleeder valves on a home radiator. Consult your owner's manual to find the precise location of this valve - usually it's located at your cooling system's highest point to most effectively release air, which naturally rises. To bleed a car's radiator via a bleeder valve, simply loosen it until you hear the hissing sound of air escaping. Use a cloth to catch any sputtering coolant, then re-tighten the valve when the valve releases a steady stream of coolant. Some cars don't have special bleeder valves. Don't worry - it's still possible to bleed these cars' radiators via other processes (see below.) Start the car with the radiator cap off. Another easy way to bleed the car's radiator is simply to allow it to idle with the radiator cap removed (this is also a great option if your car doesn't come equipped with a special bleeder valve.) Remove the radiator cap, then allow your car to run for about fifteen to twenty minutes. The air pockets should be forced through the cooling system and bubble out of the car's radiator. Elevate your car. Air naturally rises, so by raising the front of your car, putting the radiator at a higher point than the rest of your cooling system, you can speed the release of air from your system. Carefully use a jack to raise your car - most cars come with one, but if yours didn't, they're available at auto supply stores. Ensure your radiator cap is loosened or removed before lifting the car. In certain special car varieties, the radiator may not be located at the front of the car - consult your car's owner's manual if you're not sure. Perform a "flush and fill. " After you've bled a car's radiator, it can be a good idea to add new coolant. Trapped air can artificially inflate a car's coolant reading - you may be running low on coolant without having realized it. Drain old coolant from your system and add fresh coolant, observing any special instruction in your owner's manual. Below are general instructions for replacing your car's coolant: Allow the engine to cool completely. Place a drainage pan under your radiator's drain valve to collect old coolant. Add water to the car's radiator until it's full, then allow it to drain out of the drain valve under the car. Close the drain valve and add fresh coolant, generally a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water (not tap water, which can form mineral deposits.) Bleed your radiator again to eliminate any air introduced during the flush and fill. | Diagnose your radiator. Find a radiator key. Turn off your heat. Open your radiator's valves. Catch drips from the valve. Wait for water to squirt out of the bleed valve. Repeat this process on all the radiators in your house. Check your boiler's pressure level. Look for symptoms that your car's radiator isn't working. Locate and loosen your car's bleeder valve. Start the car with the radiator cap off. Elevate your car. Perform a "flush and fill. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tie-an-Eldredge-Knot | How to Tie an Eldredge Knot | To tie an Eldredge knot, start by draping a tie around your neck and crossing the narrow end over the wide end. Then, wrap the narrow end around the back of the wide end, and thread it behind the right side of the loop that's around your neck. Next, cross the narrow end of the tie over the wide end, and pull it up through the loop around your neck so the inside of the tie is facing out. From there, bring the narrow end down over the knot to the right so it's diagonal. Once you've done that, pass the narrow end behind the knot to the left, and then bring it back across the front of the knot to the right, passing it through the diagonal band you made. After that, raise the narrow end straight upward, and pass it down between your neck and the right side of the collar loop. Now, bring the narrow end across the front of the knot and through the loop you just made. Finally, pull on the narrow end to tighten the knot, and fold down your collar. | Choose a plain tie for an Eldredge knot. A striped or high-contrast, patterned tie won't look good with an Eldredge knot. Because there are so many folds in the knot, a striped or patterned tie will just look like a jumbled mess. Solid colored ties are the best option for an Eldredge knot. Drape the tie around your open collar. Make sure you have your collar raised when you drape the tie around your neck. Let the tie hang so that the wide end is on your right and the narrow end is on your left. Make sure the seams are facing inward. Adjust the tie so that the wide end is hanging down where you want it when you finish. Most people prefer the tip of the tie to hang just above the waistline. Cross the narrow end over the front of the wide end. Start by pinching the wide end with your left hand to make a dimple. Then, when pulling the narrow end across, try to make it as perpendicular to the wide end as you can, so that you end up with a cross shape. You don't need to move the wide end of the tie when tying an Eldredge Knot. Wrap the narrow end around the back of the wide end. When wrapping the narrow end behind the wide end from right to left, make it as perpendicular to the wide end as you can. Pinching the spot where the narrow end crossed over the front of the wide end will help you keep the crossing tight. Practice in front of a mirror so you can see your progress from another angle. Raise the narrow end of the tie over the collar loop on your left side. The collar loop is the part of the tie that wraps around your collar. Raise the narrow end up so that is in front of the collar loop and pointing toward your face. Thread the narrow end behind the collar loop on the tie’s right side. Make it so the narrow end of the tie is on your right side when you finish this step. Position the narrow end so that it is facing outward. Cross the narrow end over the wide end. Make the narrow end as horizontal as possible when crossing. Double check to make sure there is no slack in tie at this point. Push the narrow end up and behind the loop around your neck. Squeeze the narrow end behind your collar loop. As you pull it through the loop, make it so that the inside of the tie is facing outward. Tighten the tie to get rid of any slack. Bring the narrow end of the tie down over the right side of the knot. Pull the narrow end of the tie down so that it is snug against the knot. Make it form a diagonal band running from the left down to the right over the knot. Loop the narrow end around the knot and through the diagonal band. Guide the narrow end behind the knot to the left. Then bring it back across toward the right side and over the knot. When crossing over the knot, weave the narrow end through the diagonal band. Pull the knot tight to create a diagonal band on the left side. Coil the narrow end around the right side of your collar loop. From the knot, raise the narrow end straight upward. Then, thread it down between your neck and the right side of your collar loop. The narrow end of your tie should end up on the right side of the tie with its inside facing outward. Bring the narrow end across the knot and through the collar loop. Aim the narrow end of the tie straight upwards. Then guide it between your neck and your collar loop down to the left side of your knot. The narrow end of your tie should be on your left side with its inside facing outward. Keep some slack in your tie at this stage. Take the narrow end through the loop you just made. Bring the narrow end toward your right, across the front of the knot. After going through the loop, tighten the knot. Adjust it so that the diagonal folds are even. Hide the remainder of the narrow end. Fold the rest of the narrow end over your collar loop. Then you can either tuck it behind the wide end of your tie or put it underneath the loop around your neck. You can tighten your tie by pulling on the wide end. | Choose a plain tie for an Eldredge knot. Drape the tie around your open collar. Cross the narrow end over the front of the wide end. Wrap the narrow end around the back of the wide end. Raise the narrow end of the tie over the collar loop on your left side. Thread the narrow end behind the collar loop on the tie’s right side. Cross the narrow end over the wide end. Push the narrow end up and behind the loop around your neck. Bring the narrow end of the tie down over the right side of the knot. Loop the narrow end around the knot and through the diagonal band. Coil the narrow end around the right side of your collar loop. Bring the narrow end across the knot and through the collar loop. Take the narrow end through the loop you just made. Hide the remainder of the narrow end. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Watches-at-Home | How to Store Watches at Home | To keep your watches safe while you're storing them, always place them face up in a case or tray, and leave gaps between the watches so they're not touching each other. Place silica gel packets into the case to protect your watches from humidity, which can cloud the crystal and damage the gears. If you'll be leaving your watches in storage long-term, remove the battery to keep it from corroding or leaking. | Keep your watches in a storage case if you want to keep them in sight. These cases are similar to a jewelry box, but the compartments are designed to fit watches. They are often lined with felt or another plush fabric that will prevent your watches from getting scratched or dented. Watch boxes often have glass tops, allowing you to see your collection. This is a good option if you like to wear a different watch every day. Use an insert to keep your watches in a dresser drawer. You can purchase special trays which are made to fit inside of a dresser drawer. These usually have square compartments to hold watch boxes as well as long, narrow compartments so watch bands can lay flat. If the trays you are using are not lined, you may want to add a non-slip drawer liner to the bottom of the tray so your watches don't shift around when you open the drawer. Just use scissors to cut pieces of the liner to fit the compartments. If you like, you can glue them in place. You can use pieces of foam pipe insulation to hold watches which don't have a box. The insulation is already round and is similar to the size of a person's wrist. Just cut the insulation to fit in the compartment, then slide the watch onto the foam. Keep your watches in a cigar humidor to keep them dry. Humidors are designed to protect cigars from humidity and temperature, both of which can be damaging to your watch. Whether you need a quick storage option or you just like the look of a humidor, this is a popular option for keeping watches safe. Use a watch roll if you need to travel with your watches. A watch roll is made of a flexible material like leather or soft fabric. Place your watches in the pouch, then roll it up so they are cushioned by the fabric. Watch rolls are perfect for packing in a suitcase or overnight bag, but some of the pouches are so nice, you might want to leave your watches in them all the time! Keep automatic watches in a watch winder. Automatic watches don't need to be wound manually, because they use the natural movement of your body to harness energy. A watch winder turns your watch for you, keeping it ticking even when you're not wearing it. Automatic watches perform best if they keep running, so a watch winder will help prolong the life of your timepiece. Place valuable watches in a safe. You can find safes in all shapes and sizes, so whether you have one special family heirloom or a wall full of timepieces, you can find a safe that will suit your watch collection. Some safes even come with special trays designed to hold jewelry. If you just have 1 or 2 watches you want to protect, keep them in a small safe under your bed or in your closet. You can even get a safe designed as a book or other inconspicuous item so it won't draw attention. Watches are a common target for thieves because they are valuable and easy to carry. Store your watches face up. If you place them face down, even in a plush case, the crystals can become scratched, dulled, or even cracked. Whether your watches are laying flat or wrapped around a holder, the face should always be upwards. Leave gaps when placing watches in a case. If you place your watches in the case so that they're touching each other, they can be easily damaged. Leave at least a 0.5 in (1.3 cm) gap between the watches so they don't bump against each other. Ideally you should use a case or tray with dividers to hold each watch individually. Use silica gel to protect your watches from humidity. Moisture and condensation can cause the oil in your watch to coagulate, damaging the gears inside. You can purchase silica gel packets to keep in the case with your watches, or you can just reuse the packets that come in food and electronics packages. You can purchase silica gel at craft stores, home improvement stores, or online. Depending on the quality of the gel and the amount you buy, it should cost around $5-$20 USD. Remove the batteries if you'll be storing your watches long-term. Quartz watches have batteries, and over time, these batteries can corrode and leak, causing irreparable damage to your watch. To make sure this doesn't happen, remove the battery before you place the watch in storage. To take the battery out of the watch, pry off the back with a small screwdriver, then pop the battery out of its compartment. If you can't access the battery compartment, take your watch to a jeweler and ask them to do it before you put the watch into storage. Keep all of your paperwork in protective bags in a safe place. If you decide to resell your watches, all of the original packaging will greatly increase the value of your sale. Keep the original box, seal all of the paperwork in a plastic bag, and place it somewhere that it won't be disturbed. If you have multiple watches, separate the paperwork into an individual bag for each watch so it will be easy to find. Take your watch out of storage at least once a year and wear it. Only the rarest watches should be kept in storage and never worn. Most watches benefit from being taken out, wound, and worn once in awhile. Even if you're collecting watches to eventually resell, try to wear each watch in your collection once or twice a year. | Keep your watches in a storage case if you want to keep them in sight. Use an insert to keep your watches in a dresser drawer. Keep your watches in a cigar humidor to keep them dry. Use a watch roll if you need to travel with your watches. Keep automatic watches in a watch winder. Place valuable watches in a safe. Store your watches face up. Leave gaps when placing watches in a case. Use silica gel to protect your watches from humidity. Remove the batteries if you'll be storing your watches long-term. Keep all of your paperwork in protective bags in a safe place. Take your watch out of storage at least once a year and wear it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-a-Bad-Kisser | How to Deal With a Bad Kisser | To deal with a bad kisser, try taking the lead and kissing your partner the same way you want to be kissed back. When you're kissing, tell your partner what you like so they know to do it in the future. If they do something you don't like, let them know by saying "I like it more when you kiss me this way" and then showing them what you want. If the problem continues, sit your partner down and kindly explain what kinds of kissing you like and don't like. | Set a relaxed atmosphere. This is especially important if you've only kissed once. Was there something about the situation that might have meant the two of you didn't bring your best game? This can be the case if the two of you were drunk, short on time or in a particularly awkward situation. Next time the two of you kiss, prepare beforehand. Make sure the two of you are comfortable, like on a cozy couch or a bed. Dim the lights to set the right atmosphere. Light candles and play romantic music. Take the lead. Next time you kiss your partner, be proactive and drop hints about how you like being kissed. This is really important early, as it can prevent bad habits from developing. Make your kissing style known, and hopefully your partner will replicate it. If your partner doesn't have as much experience as you, this can really help them develop their kissing ability. Teach them a fun lesson. You can turn a potentially uncomfortable conversation into a playful demonstration. Focus on specific kissing styles you'd like your partner to emulate. Outline them verbally, then demonstrate. Open by telling your partner: “This is the kind of kissing I like” and demonstrate. An example of a specific thing you can try and correct would go like this. Say: “This is how I like using my tongue.” and demonstrate. For example, if you prefer to be caressed a certain way while kissed, demonstrate this on your partner. Use the three strikes method. If there's something specific your partner does that bothers you, use this method to bring it to light. The first time you tell them you don't like something, this is the first strike. If you have to go through this process two more times, that's two more strikes. If you get to strike three, it's time to pull away and talk about what's going on. For example, if your partner uses too much tongue, pull away, say “This is how I prefer to be kissed” as your first strike, then resume. Practice frequently. The best way to make sure you both get the best out of any kissing venture is to actively practice. Set some time aside during each date specifically for making out with your partner. This will give you plenty of time to drop hints, and the practice might just help your partner shake some of the habits you're not a fan of. Figure out exactly what you don’t like. It's important not to stop at “they're a bad kisser” if you're hoping to solve the problem. Think of specific things your partner is doing that might bother you, so you can fix them. There are a few things that can go wrong in a kiss. Too much teeth. Teeth banging together can definitely be a turn-off. Too much saliva. The last thing you want to say about a kiss is it's slobbery. Bad breath. Too much or too little tongue. Redirect wandering hands. You might need to do this because you're just not ready for that kind of contact, or your partner's hands are less than gentle. Simply grab the hand(s) and redirect them towards a spot you're comfortable with. For instance, you can take your partner's hand to your waist, or maybe up to your face. After redirecting their hands you can let them know you enjoy being caressed there. Show them how to use less teeth. Bumping teeth usually happens because the two of you are very eager. There's nothing wrong with that! But unless bumping teeth is a turn on for you, you might want to slow down just a tad. If your partner doesn't take the hint, you can take your partner's head in your hands and gently tell them to slow down. Stop them from slobbering. Too much saliva can happen when there's too much tongue action and not enough lip movement. Try focusing on kissing their lips gently, toning things down a bit. If they follow your lead, you should be dealing with much less slobber. If they don't follow your lead, try pulling away a bit. Usually that's enough of a sign to slow things down. Control their wild tongue. Keep in mind that the amount of tongue that is acceptable in a kiss is very subjective. If your partner's tongue isn't doing too much, you'll have to take the lead. Make sure your tongue has the first move; they'll follow along. If the problem is their tongue going too wild, you have a couple of options. The first is to pull away noticeably. They'll either understand and slow down, or follow and keep their intensity. If they do the latter, you can stop, and gently tell them to slow down. Ask your partner what they like. If you haven't been able to change your partner's ways by dropping hints, you may need to talk to them about what they prefer. You're not the only one involved in this kissing thing; your partner may just like things a bit differently than what you're used to. Here are a couple things you can ask: ”Do you like the way I use my tongue?” You might find out that your expectations don't exactly match up. ”Is there something you wish I was doing?” While you might be doing everything right, there might be a little extra your partner would like. ”Is there anything I do while we kiss that you don't like?” This question is a bit more open ended, but opens the floor for honesty. Go over what you like. Your partner can't guess what you like. Dropping hints is subtle and won't hurt anyone's feelings, but sometimes it's just too subtle. If you haven't been able to change your partner's ways, you might need to be more overt about your wishes. Be very specific, for instance mention exactly how passionate you expect kissing to be; otherwise it can feel rather forceful. It's important to approach this kind of sensitive topic with tact. Don't be overly critical, and try to reinforce your partner's positive behaviors. Look at ultimatum options. In the worst-case scenario, you have two choices: lower your standards or break up with the bad kisser. If the person is wonderful in all other respects and if kissing just isn't that important to you, just live with it. If you really need a good kisser, you have to end the relationship. If you try to communicate your needs early and the person still doesn't adapt, they probably won't be responsive to your needs in other areas either and won't make a good long-term partner for you anyway. It's hard to break up with someone, but remember that you'll be better off and, hopefully, that person will also finally take the hint and become a better partner for someone in the future. | Set a relaxed atmosphere. Take the lead. Teach them a fun lesson. Use the three strikes method. Practice frequently. Figure out exactly what you don’t like. Redirect wandering hands. Show them how to use less teeth. Stop them from slobbering. Control their wild tongue. Ask your partner what they like. Go over what you like. Look at ultimatum options. |
https://www.wikihow.fitness/Work-Out-Naked | How to Work Out Naked | If you want to work out naked, first, choose a spot where you can have some privacy, like your bedroom with the blinds closed or an enclosed backyard. Begin with a basic warm-up, like stretching or walking around, so you don't pull any muscles. Then, do some exercises that can easily be done in the nude. For example, try push ups, the downward dog stretch, sideways planks, or squat jumps. If you start to feel sore while you're exercising, wear a sports bra or athletic underwear for extra support. | Do basic pushups. Basic pushups are simple to do at home, and can easily be done in the nude. This is a classic exercise that requires no equipment other than your own body. To start, lift your body off the ground with your hands flat on the floor and your fingertips facing forward. Keep your hands near your hips and your shoulders pulled back. Place your legs and feet in the plank position. Lower your body downward slowly by bending your elbows. Keep lowering yourself until your chest or chin touch the floor. Straighten your elbows until you're back in the start position. Then, repeat the exercise. Keep going until you've done as many pushups as you can. Try downward dog. Downward dog is a simple yoga position that can help build strength. It can easily be done in the nude. To start, stand on all fours. Have your hands under your elbows and your fingertips facing forward. Push your legs and feet backwards until you're in a plank position. Stand on your tiptoes to lift your body off the ground. Then, shift your weight backwards and raise your hips until your body forms a v-position. Keep your head aligned with your spine. Exhale as you move your body upward. Then, inhale and return to the starting position. Do as many repetitions as are comfortable for you. Exercise with sideways planks. To start, lie on your right side. Bend your knees and stack your legs on top of one another. Lift your body up by bending your right elbow and supporting your weight with your right arm. Keep your head aligned with your spine. Lift your hips off the ground as you exhale. Keep your head and spine aligned. Return to the starting position as you inhale. Do as many repetitions that are comfortable to you, and then repeat on the other side. Try squat jumps. This activity requires a bit more movement, so it can help raise your heart rate slightly. To start, stand up straight with your feet hip length apart. Keep your arms at your side, with your shoulder blades pulled down slightly. Crouch downward by shifting your hips and back down and bending your knees. Keep lowering yourself until your heels nearly hit the floor. Then, quickly launch yourself into the air. Strive to keep your feet level with each other as you jump. Try to land softly, with your feet still level. Push your hips back slightly to absorb some of the impact. Then, repeat. Do lunges. To start, stand with your feet together and shoulders pulled back. Lift up one foot and briefly balance on one leg. Then, step forward and land on your raised foot. Lower your body until you feel discomfort. Try to get your thigh parallel to the floor. Push off the ground with the leg you lifted. Return to the starting position. Repeat the movement with your other leg. Close any blinds or curtains. As you likely do not want your neighbors peeking in on you exercising in the nude, keep any blinds or curtains in your home closed. This is especially important if you live in a home where it's difficult to avoid windows. Curtains generally shut out more than blinds. If possible, exercise in an area of your home near curtains. If you have a spot in your home away from windows altogether, like a basement, opt to exercise there. Work out by a window near trees or shrubs. If you have somewhat flimsy blinds, you may want some extra coverage from prying eyes. Plant life can help shut out the outside view. If there's a window near a tree, shrub, or other type of foliage, opt to exercise here. The bigger and bushier the plants, the more privacy you will get. Choose a space near a window pointing to the courtyard. If you have a courtyard or backyard in your home, you may want to exercise by a window looking over this space. You're less likely to get random people walking through a courtyard or backyard than the street. However, if you live in an apartment complex, your neighbors may frequently walk through the courtyard. In this case, it may be better to work out elsewhere. Take advantage of walls and fences. If your home is surrounded by fences or walls, opt to workout near windows overlooking such obstructions. This will limit people walking by from seeing into your home. Look for nude yoga classes. As yoga is a fairly low intensity activity, many areas offer nude yoga classes. Many people enjoy such classes as they get used to being naked in the presence of others, helping with body acceptance, and they also have an instructor guide them through a routine. You can look online for nude classes in your area. If there are any gyms or spas that are clothing-optional, you may find nude yoga classes here. If you can't find a nude class, you can always do a yoga routine from your home while naked. Seek out a nude spa. There may be spas in your area that are clothing optional. Many spas have exercise classes, such as yoga, and may also have gyms and gym equipment. If you want to go somewhere to work out naked, look into a day pass at a nude spa. Spas may have rules regarding how to use equipment when naked, so make sure you follow all rules. You may, for example, not be allowed to use certain workout equipment while naked. Find a clothing optional beach. If you want to do something like water aerobics, there may be a nude beach near you. There are many nude beaches in the United States and other countries. This can be a great place to work out nude. In the United States, there are nude beaches in many states. Texas, Oregon, California, and Hawaii, for example, are all home to nude beaches. Make sure to warm up and cool down. Working on naked requires the same basic workout safety as any other exercise routine. Prior to working out, warm up. After you're done, cool down. A warm up is generally some light activity prior to a workout routine. You can pace for about 10 minutes in your home, or do 10 minutes of light stretching. To cool down, repeat the same process. Do about 10 minutes of lighter activity. Go for a sports bra if you start to feel pain. Sports bras can help support your breasts during a workout routine. They help keep your weight supported, allowing for better posture during a workout. If your breasts are sensitive due to pregnancy or breastfeeding, a sport bra may be necessary. If working out nude is important to you, you don't have to wear a sports bra. For lower intensity activities, like yoga or Pilates, a sports bra is probably not necessary. However, if you're doing more vigorous cardio, your body may benefit from the support of a sports bra. If your breasts start to feel sore during a workout, you may want to throw on at least a sports bra for your routine. Opt for athletic underwear or a jockstrap during high intensity sports. Jockstraps and athletic underwear support sensitive areas of the body, serving a similar function to sports bras. You may need the support of athletic underwear or a jockstrap if you're engaging in vigorous activity in the nude. If you start to feel sore, buy underwear or a jockstrap. Listen to your body when starting a new routine. When working out in the nude, you should remain in tune with your body. Overexertion can lead to injury. With a new workout routine, pay attention to signs your body needs to rest and recuperate. If you feel faint after a workout, cut back the next day. If a workout leaves you with aches and pains that persist for days, you need to cut back slightly on the intensity. | Do basic pushups. Try downward dog. Exercise with sideways planks. Try squat jumps. Do lunges. Close any blinds or curtains. Work out by a window near trees or shrubs. Choose a space near a window pointing to the courtyard. Take advantage of walls and fences. Look for nude yoga classes. Seek out a nude spa. Find a clothing optional beach. Make sure to warm up and cool down. Go for a sports bra if you start to feel pain. Opt for athletic underwear or a jockstrap during high intensity sports. Listen to your body when starting a new routine. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Hide-Your-Nipples | How to Hide Your Nipples | The quickest way to conceal your nipples is to cover them with small, sticky circles, which you can make out of pantyliners, bandaids, or even surgical tape. If you don't want to tape your nipples, you can try creating a distraction by wearing heavy, dark fabrics with small prints. Alternatively, if you want to wear a lighter shirt, try layering a light-colored undershirt beneath it! | Wear reusable silicone nipple covers under thin fabrics. These small, circular or flower-shaped adhesive coverings are meant to cover only your nipples, so they're a great option for low-cut tops and thin or sheer fabrics that might make your nipples visible. Stick the adhesive side onto your nipple and press it down gently. Look for a color close your skin tone for the least noticeable solution. You can buy stick-on nipple covers online or in stores that sell bras and related accessories. Wash the covers with gentle soap and water after use and store them in their original packaging to reuse. The adhesive will wear out eventually, but many covers come with a 30 to 50-wear guarantee. Try disposable pasties for a cheap, one-time cover-up. Like the silicon nipple covers, pasties are placed directly over your nipple and stay on using a sticky adhesive. They're cheaper and come in packs of 4-6, because they're meant to be for one-time use. Some people prefer pasties because they're less noticeable under tight shirts than silicon covers, which are thick and might stand out under a tight fabric. On the flip side, pasties might not be as adept at concealing your nipples when they harden. Try both nipple covers and pasties to see which works best at concealing your nipples. Cut a panty liner for a cheap DIY stick-on covering. Cut the pad in half, then cut out 2 circles large enough to cover your nipples, keeping the paper covering the adhesive in place. Stick them on over your nipples and throw them away when you're done. Like pasties, this method might not conceal hard nipples well under a tight shirt. Try it at home before you wear it out. You can also use small bandages or surgical tape. Wear a T-shirt bra to cover your nipples through everyday tops. To ensure that your nipples don't show through regular shirt material, look for bras with thick fabric cups, typically called either molded bras, contour bras, or T-shirt bras. They won't have a lot of extra padding, but the fabric will be solid enough to prevent your nipples from being visible. Padded bras will provide extra nipple coverage. Wear a strapless, backless bra for more support in a backless top. This type of bra has two cups that stick onto your breasts with adhesive, rather than strapping around your back and shoulders. It often has a clip in the middle, like a front-clasping bra, that allows you to connect the cups for more push-up. You can purchase this type of bra online or in some lingerie stores. To put on a strapless, backless bra, bend over and stick the cup on the outside of each breast, then clip them together to create some cleavage. Wash the adhesive side of your bra after use with soap and water. Let it dry and store it in its original packaging so you can reuse it. Place a pastie or nipple cover under a thin bra for extra coverage. If you're prefer to wear lacy bras or ones made of thin fabric, stick on the pastie before you put it on. You can enjoy the look and feel of these thinner bras without worrying that your nipples will show through. Wear a nipple concealing bralette. This type of bralette is wireless, non padded and has flexible concealer built in to each cup. It is made of stretch knit and is a cross between a sports bra and a bralette. You can purchase this type of bralette online. Wear a top that’s made of thick or loose fabric to prevent clinging. Thin, tight shirts will make your nipples more obvious. A loose T-shirt or top, or a top or dress made of thick fabric will conceal them without any extra accessories necessary. You can also look for a double-layered top or dress, such as one with a slip attached or with a layer of lace over the chest area. Look for a darker shirt with a print to distract from your nipples. Light colors like white and pale pink will make your nipples more noticeable than darker ones, such as black, purple, and dark blue. Small prints and floral patterns can also work to camouflage your nipples. Avoid tops that draw attention to nipples with darts or other structured elements. Wear an undershirt under a loose shirt. If your shirt is loose and flowy but sheer enough to show your nipples, try wearing a thin cami or undershirt beneath. Look for a color that will blend in with the shirt or your skin tone. You could also choose a color that complements your top and pull it out a bit at the bottom to layer your outfit colorfully. You can also try this method with tighter shirts, but the lines of your undershirt will likely be visible beneath. | Wear reusable silicone nipple covers under thin fabrics. Try disposable pasties for a cheap, one-time cover-up. Cut a panty liner for a cheap DIY stick-on covering. Wear a T-shirt bra to cover your nipples through everyday tops. Wear a strapless, backless bra for more support in a backless top. Place a pastie or nipple cover under a thin bra for extra coverage. Wear a nipple concealing bralette. Wear a top that’s made of thick or loose fabric to prevent clinging. Look for a darker shirt with a print to distract from your nipples. Wear an undershirt under a loose shirt. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Olive-Oil | How to Store Olive Oil | To store olive oil, keep it in a pantry, closet, cupboard, or other dark area, since sunlight and fluorescent lights will deteriorate the quality of the oil. If the olive oil was packaged in a clear glass or plastic bottle, transfer it to a dark glass bottle or wrap the bottle with aluminum foil to further protect it from the light. Seal the bottle tightly after each time you use the oil, and keep it at a temperature between 57 and 70 °F. If you live in a hot climate, keep your olive oil in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life. When stored properly, olive oil will stay good for up to 2 years. | Protect the oil from light. Sunlight and fluorescent lights will deteriorate the quality of the oil. Store your oil in a pantry, closet, cupboard, or other dark area with a door. Never leave the olive oil on your counter, in a window sill, or anywhere that it will be exposed to light for extended periods of time. Choose the right container. The ideal container for olive oil is a stainless-steel tin or dark glass bottle that will further protect the oil from light. Olive oil often comes in clear glass bottles, and if you don't have another container to transfer the oil to, then wrap the bottle with aluminum foil to protect it from light. Don't use reactive metals, such as iron and copper. These materials can contaminate the oil and cause an undesired chemical reaction. Seal the oil with an airtight lid. Oxygen is another element that will spoil olive oil. Whatever container you store your oil in, make sure it has an airtight lid that will keep out extra oxygen. After each time you use the oil, seal the lid tightly to protect the oil. If you're concerned that your lid isn't sealing properly, wrap the top of the bottle with a small sheet of plastic wrap before putting on the lid. Keep the oil cool. The ideal temperature for storing olive oil is 57 F (14 C), but it can safely be stored anywhere up to 70 F (21 C). The ideal spot for olive oil is a root cellar or cold cellar that's both cool and dark, but a cooler pantry in your kitchen will also work. You can store the oil in the refrigerator, though this isn't necessary if you can keep the oil at the right temperature outside of the refrigerator. In hot and humid climates where the temperature is typically 80 F (27 C) or hotter, storing the oil in the refrigerator will help to preserve it. Oil stored in the refrigerator will solidify and become cloudy, so you'll need to warm it up to room temperature before you can use it. Simply transfer it to the pantry and wait about half an hour for it to become liquid again. Store large quantities of oil separately. When you buy oil in bulk, transfer up to a quart (1 L) to a smaller bottle for everyday use. Seal the lid tightly on the bulk container, store it somewhere cool and dark, and only open it to refill the smaller container. Buying olive oil in bulk can help you save money, but storing the oil properly becomes even more important when you're trying to protect large quantities. Check for a harvest date. Olive oil will be freshest within a year of the olives being harvested, but the oil will still be good for another year after that. For the freshest and longest-lasting olive oil possible, look for a harvest date on the bottle, and buy oil made with freshly harvested olives. Go by the bottling date if you can't find a harvest date on the oil. When stored properly, the oil will be good for 18 months to two years from the bottling date. Buy oil that comes in a dark or metal container. Oil that's bottled in dark glass or stainless steel will be protected from UV and fluorescent light in the factory, during shipment, and at the grocery store. Because light can degrade olive oil, buying oil in a dark bottle will last longer than oil bottled in clear glass. Avoid oil that comes in a plastic bottle. Plastic bottles don't protect olive oil from light the way dark glass and metal containers do, so oil that comes in plastic containers may already have a shortened shelf life. Olive oil stored in plastic bottles also tends to have fewer carotenes, less chlorophyll, and phenols, which are antioxidants found in olives. Pick a bottle from the back of the shelf. When it's not possible to buy oil that comes in dark glass or stainless steel, choose a bottle from the back of the shelf. This way, the other bottles will have protected the oil inside from some light contamination in the grocery store. Drizzle it on foods before eating. Olive oil is a delicious garnish that you can add to foods right before serving. The oil will add an extra dimension to the flavor, add richness to the dish, and bring out some flavors in the food. Drizzle on some oil right before serving foods like: Pasta Hummus Soups Salad Finish meat with a splash of oil. Right before serving your favorite steak, fish filet, or other piece of meat, drizzle on a small amount of olive oil to add extra richness and juiciness to the meat. Season the meat with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve. Use it in place of butter. Olive oil makes an excellent substitute for butter in some situations, especially when it comes to baked goods. Instead of spreading butter on your toast, sandwiches, muffins, or fruit breads, drizzle and spread some olive oil on top. For fresh bread, try combining olive oil and some balsamic vinegar on a flat plate and dip the bread into the oil and vinegar before eating. Dress your salads. Fresh olive oil has a light and non-greasy taste, which makes it ideal for making vinaigrettes and salad dressings. You can either follow a proven vinaigrette recipe, or make your own by experimenting with different combinations of: Olive oil Balsamic, rice, or wine vinegar Lemon juice Honey or maple syrup Mustard Use it for cooking. Despite its bad rap, you can cook and pan fry foods with olive oil. The smoke point, or the temperature at which the oil burns, of olive oil is anywhere between 410 and 486 F (210 and 252 C) depending on how refined it is. Most at-home cooking is done between 250 and 400 F (121 and 204 C), so olive oil is safe for: Pan frying Sautéing Stir frying | Protect the oil from light. Choose the right container. Seal the oil with an airtight lid. Keep the oil cool. Store large quantities of oil separately. Check for a harvest date. Buy oil that comes in a dark or metal container. Avoid oil that comes in a plastic bottle. Pick a bottle from the back of the shelf. Drizzle it on foods before eating. Finish meat with a splash of oil. Use it in place of butter. Dress your salads. Use it for cooking. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Treat-Folliculitis-in-Dogs | How to Treat Folliculitis in Dogs | Folliculitis is a condition where hair follicles get infected, and it affects dogs as well as people. Common signs of infected hair follicles in dogs include red and swollen skin and hair loss. If you think your dog has folliculitis, take it to your vet so they can diagnose it and prescribe medication. This might be in the form of a shampoo or topical ointment for you to rub on your dog's infected skin. They may also give you oral antibiotics if your dog's infection needs stronger treatment. | Identify the symptoms of folliculitis. In order to get a diagnosis of folliculitis you need to be able to identify the symptoms. When looking at your dog's skin, keep an eye out for: Redness Swelling Itching Pimples Hair loss Take your dog to a veterinarian. If you suspect that your dog has folliculitis, then you should get them looked at by a veterinarian. Your veterinarian will ask you about the dog's symptoms and when they developed. The veterinarian will then give the dog a general exam and inspect the area of infection. In most cases, the veterinarian will be able to give you a preliminary diagnosis of folliculitis just by looking at the dog's skin. This is one of the most common dog skin infections, so your veterinarian has probably seen it many times. Folliculitis can have many causes, so your veterinarian will likely wish to run additional tests to determine the cause of your dog's folliculitis and to choose the best treatment. Have skin scrapings or skin cytology done. In order to look for mites, your veterinarian may do a skin scraping. This type of testing simply involves the veterinarian getting a skin or hair sample and then inspecting it under a microscope. Skin cytology also includes the inspection of a skin sample under a microscope; however, unlike a skin scraping, a skin cytology is done to identify a bacterial infection. Get a fungal or bacterial culture done. Your veterinarian may suggest doing a culture to figure out the exact nature of the infection. This will be especially important for chronic infections or infections that have not responded to previous treatment attempts. A bacterial culture can be an expensive test, so it is usually done to make sure treatment will be successful. Use antimicrobial shampoo. If your dog has folliculitis, you should apply medication to their skin to get rid of the infection. Applying a surface medication will eliminate organisms and debris from the skin's surface. This is usually done with an antimicrobial shampoo that is applied to the coat. This type of shampoo is usually left on the skin for at least 10 minutes before washing off in order to be effective. Your veterinarian will tell you how often to use the shampoo on your dog. Typically, this type of treatment is required for several weeks before the condition clears up. Use a topical antibacterial medication. If your dog's infection is localized and not too advanced, then only a topical medication may be prescribed. If the infection is more advanced and covers a lot of your dog's skin, a topical medication may prescribed in combination with a medicated shampoo. Topical medications may come in the form of a lotion, spray, gel, cream, or ointment. Follow your veterinarian's instructions about when and how often the medication should be applied. You may need to put a cone on your dog to stop them from licking or gnawing at the medicated area. Give the dog systemic therapy. If your dog's infection is advanced, it may be important to give the dog an oral antibiotic, in addition to treating their coat. This is usually given for three to six weeks, depending on how long the symptoms continue. Antibiotics are usually given for an additional week once symptoms disappear. This will help assure that the infection is eliminated. Discuss the option of an oral antibiotic with your veterinarian. Most veterinarians will try to avoid prescribing excessive amounts of antibiotics to avoid the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. If your dog's infection is mild, they may not require an oral antibiotic. Begin treatment for an underlying disorder. If your dog has folliculitis, it may mean that they have an underlying health condition. This could be as simple as a flea infestation, or more complicated, like a food allergy or autoimmune disorder. An underlying problem needs to be eliminated or treated so that the infection does not return in the future. The treatment for underlying immune system or skin disorders will vary widely depending on your dog's specific issues. Consult your veterinarian first. While it may be tempting to try a home or "natural" remedy before taking your dog to the vet, it is essential that you get your vet's approval before attempting treatment of any kind. "Natural" does not always mean "safe," and it is possible that you can do more harm than good. Trust that your veterinarian has your dog's best interests in mind. Don't take chances with your dog's health. This is particularly important if your dog has an underlying health condition. Treating the folliculitis without treating the cause means the infection will continue, and your dog's condition could get progressively worse without proper treatment. Apply natural topical treatments. There are a variety of natural products that can be used to ease the symptoms of folliculitis in dogs. These are applied to the skin and can be very effective for soothing irritated skin. Natural topical treatments that can help with folliculitis symptoms include: Tea: Tea is a soothing compound that can be very helpful for reducing itching. Wet tea bags can be applied directly to the skin and held in place for at least a few minutes. A good time to do this is while you are petting or brushing a calm dog. Witch hazel: This is an astringent that can be applied lightly to the skin in order to protect the skin. However, note that if it is prepared with alcohol and if it is applied too liberally it can be irritating or painful on infected skin. Coconut oil: This oil can be applied directly to irritated skin areas in order to sooth them. Do not allow your dog to lick or consume the oil, as the extra fat can cause diarrhea or even pancreatitis. Supplement your dog's diet. Good nutrition is key to a healthy, happy dog. You should feed your dog a high-quality diet. Ask your veterinarian about any supplements you can use that may help improve you dog's skin and proper dosage amounts — this is especially important if your dog's condition might be caused by allergies. Improving the dog's nutrition can be done by supplementing their diet with: Probiotics: Giving your dog probiotics may increase the good bacteria in their digestive system. This helps its immune system by decreasing the overexertion of that system in the digestive system, giving it the ability to fight infections elsewhere in the body. While there is no definitive evidence that probiotics will improve your dog's skin, it is unlikely to cause any adverse effects. Omega-3 fatty acids: Giving your dog more omega-3 fatty acids, which is usually given in the form of fish oil, may increase the dog's natural anti-inflammatory capacity. | Identify the symptoms of folliculitis. Take your dog to a veterinarian. Have skin scrapings or skin cytology done. Get a fungal or bacterial culture done. Use antimicrobial shampoo. Use a topical antibacterial medication. Give the dog systemic therapy. Begin treatment for an underlying disorder. Consult your veterinarian first. Apply natural topical treatments. Supplement your dog's diet. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Prunes | How to Make Prunes | To make prunes, start by cutting plums in half and removing the pits. Then, place the plums on an oven rack with a foil-lined tray underneath to catch the juices. Next, heat the prunes on the lowest temperature of your oven for 8 hours, but check them every few hours in case they're ready sooner. Once the skin on your prunes is dark and wrinkled, remove them from the oven and store them in a sealed container inside your pantry. | Cut your plums and remove the pits. Slice the plums in half around the pit, working with a small, sharp knife. Pull the halves apart, remove the pit, and discard the pit. Make sure you work with a knife small enough to handle. A large knife is not appropriate for cutting plums. Place the plums directly on the oven rack. Do not use a baking pan to make prunes in the oven. A lot of juices will leak from the plums during the drying process. If plums are on a baking pan, they will stick to this surface. Instead, use an oven rack. Make sure to space the plums evenly on the oven rack. If the plums are touching, this may affect the dehydration process. As the process can make a mess on the bottom of your oven, consider setting something down to catch the drippings. Some people find success laying a single sheet of foil on the bottom of the oven. However, the foil may melt and it does not work for gas ovens. You could try lining a baking tray with foil and setting that under the plums. Set the plums in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. You should set the oven as low as possible. For most ovens, that is 200 degrees Fahrenheit. If your oven is different, simply set the oven to the lowest possible temperature. Make sure to place the oven rack in the oven slowly. You do not want to knock the plums around. Check the plums every few hours. You should flip the plums every few hours so they dry out evenly. You should also check on how the dehydration process is coming along. You want your prunes to be slightly soft and juicy, while also being dry to the point of having a wrinkled, dark appearance. This also depends on personal preference. Some people prefer prunes slightly dryer while some prefer them juicier. Do not remove the prunes until they're at your desired state. Heat your prunes for around 8 hours. While most prunes will be ready at this point, vigilant checking is important. Some prunes will be ready sooner than 8 hours, and some will need a little more time. The prunes will probably be ready at slightly different rates. Remove them as needed. Cut your plums and remove the pits. Remove the stem. Then, cut the plum in half around the pit using a sharp pairing knife. Pull the two halves of the plums apart. Remove the pit and discard. If you don't have a pairing knife, you can use another sharp knife. However, be sure to avoid a large knife. Plums are small, and you want to make sure you maintain control of your knife as you cut around the pit. Lay the plums on your dehydrator tray. It's a good idea to push the plums close together, as this will eliminate the need to do two batches. However, make sure the plums are not touching. This is important for air circulation, which allows the plums to dry properly. Place the tray in the dehydrator. You should dehydrate your foods at 115 °F (46.1 °C) when working with a conventional dehydrator. However, if you have an excalibur dehydrator, start out at 145 degrees. Make sure the dehydrator is at the right temperature before placing the plums in the oven. Place the tray in the dehydrator slowly to avoid knocking the plums together. Check the plums every 4 to 6 hours. You want to turn the plums at some point to complete the dehydration process. Check every 4 to 6 hours to see if the plums are ready to turn. When plums are ready to turn, the upside should be very dry. The plums should release easily from the tray. If the upside of the plum is still moist, and the plum does not come off easily, leave the plums for a bit longer before turning them. Check every 2 hours when you begin removing prunes. The plums will turn into prunes at different rates. When you notice some plums completely lack moisture, they've completed the pruning process. These should be removed from the dehydrator. After this, start checking on the plums ever 2 hours, as they're getting close to being done. Allow the plums to dehydrate for 14 hours. Plums will take roughly 14 hours to fully dehydrate. However, they may take longer or shorter depending on the quality of the plums. This is why it's important to check your plums regularly during the dehydrating process. When fully dehydrated, you will have black, wrinkled, raisin-like prunes. Store your prunes properly. Dried prunes should be placed in an airtight container. A heavy duty plastic bag is also appropriate. You can store prunes in a cool, dark area. Prunes can be safely stored in the pantry, the refrigerator, or the freezer. Discard prunes after they spoil. The shelf life of prunes depends on where you store them. Make sure to know the shelf life of your prunes to avoid eating spoiled fruit. In the pantry and fridge, dried prunes will last 6 to 12 months. The freezer can extend the shelf life of a dried prune. Dried prunes stored in the freezer can last 12 to 18 months. Add prunes to a stuffing. If it's around Thanksgiving, dried prunes can make a tasty addition to any stuffing. When sautéing other items for the stuffing, like onion and celery, toss in the prunes as well. Cook everything together for a few minutes, and then remove the mixture from the heat. Prunes can add a slightly sweet flavor to a stuffing, which can shake up a stuffing made with mostly savory ingredients. Serve stuffed prunes as an appetizer. You can stuff prunes with Stilton or another type of cheese for a sweet and savory appetizer. You simply cut the prunes through the center and then fill them with cheese. Stuffed prunes would make a great snack for an elegant dinner party. Garnish a pot roast with prunes. Prunes can compliment beef nicely. Usually, you would add the prunes, in addition to any other garnishes, about halfway through the cooking process. However, refer to your specific recipe to make sure this is safe given the type of roast you're making. | Cut your plums and remove the pits. Place the plums directly on the oven rack. Set the plums in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the plums every few hours. Heat your prunes for around 8 hours. Cut your plums and remove the pits. Lay the plums on your dehydrator tray. Place the tray in the dehydrator. Check the plums every 4 to 6 hours. Check every 2 hours when you begin removing prunes. Allow the plums to dehydrate for 14 hours. Store your prunes properly. Discard prunes after they spoil. Add prunes to a stuffing. Serve stuffed prunes as an appetizer. Garnish a pot roast with prunes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Style-Wavy-Hair | How to Style Wavy Hair | To style wavy hair, start by squeezing out as much water as possible after shampooing and conditioning your hair. Next, comb through your hair while it's still wet. Then, apply a mousse or paste by scrunching the ends towards your roots. Once you've finished applying the product, continue scrunching your hair with an old cotton t-shirt or a microfiber cloth. Finally, comb through any messy waves with your fingers, and dry your hair naturally, or with a blow dryer. | Wash and condition your hair. Before you begin to style your hair, you'll want to wash it so that it is in it's natural state. If you try to style your hair wavy after you have already styled it another way, it may be more difficult. Use a shampoo and conditioner that enhances wavy hair. When you visit your local cosmetics or grocery store, look for a shampoo and conditioner that is suited for wavy or curly hair. The bottles will usually have something on them that explains what hair type they are for. Using a shampoo specifically designed for your hair will help you enhance your natural wave. If you can, refrain from washing your hair every day. Waiting two or three days to wash your hair will allow the natural oils in your hair to be restored, resulting in less dry, frizzy hair. You can condition your hair more frequently, as your hair could always use extra moisturizing. Comb through your hair while wet. After you get out of the shower you can squeeze out your hair, but refrain from towel drying it. It will be easier to style your hair if it is mostly wet, and towel drying your hair can add frizziness. Use a wide tooth comb and start at the ends of your hair, working out any tangles you may have. It's important to use a wide tooth comb here as other tools can cause your hair to snag or pull, which will damage your hair. Using a brush will most likely do this, so avoid brushing your hair when it is wet. A regular comb (not wide tooth) is less likely to pull your hair, so you can use that if it is what you have. However, a wide tooth comb is the best choice. Apply styling product to your hair. After you have combed through your hair, you can now apply a product to enhance waves. Try to choose a product with little or no alcohol (as this can create that crunchy feeling in your hair). You can use a mousse, paste, or spray (whichever you prefer). Squirt the mousse or paste into your hand and apply it to your hair by scrunching from the ends of your hair towards your roots. You can also put the product directly in your hair. Squirt it into your hand and finger comb it through your hair. Then scrunch your hair as previously described. If you have spray, spritz it evenly throughout your hair and proceed to scrunch your hair. Look for a product that is described as curl enhancing or wave enhancing. Avoid using hairspray as this can create a crunchy, frizzy look. Try not to add product to your roots as this will create build up and can make your hair look too stiff. You will achieve the most natural wave if you apply product closer to the ends of your hair, as waves generally tend to be looser at the top and tighter at the end. Continue to scrunch your hair. After you have applied your product, take some time to scrunch your hair, gathering your hair at the ends in your hands and scrunching upwards to your roots. Once all the product is in your hair, scrunch with a microfiber cloth. Do this until you've scrunched all of your hair, and you have your desired waviness. Avoid scrunching your hair with a towel as this can create frizziness. If you don't have a microfiber cloth, you can use an old cotton t-shirt. You want to avoid using your hands too much as they can also create frizziness in your hair. Comb through any messiness. Now that you've finished scrunching your hair, use your fingers to comb through any messy waves you may have created. You don't want to use a comb or brush while your hair is styled like this as it can brush out the waves you created, making your hair look bushy. Fix any fly aways or tangles you created by finger combing your hair. Blow dry or air dry your hair. You can dry your hair naturally or with a blow dryer. Drying your hair naturally will take longer, but it will prevent your hair from damage caused by heat and may help avoid frizziness. If you are going to blow dry your hair, make sure you use a diffuser. Turn the temperature on a lower heat and gently blow your hair dry with your diffuser attachment, setting the ends of your hair in the diffuser and pushing the diffuser upwards to your roots. Repeat all the steps from the previous method. Before you begin using heating tools, you'll want your hair to already have some wave in it. You can create this natural wave by applying product to your hair, scrunching it and drying it with a diffuser. Or, to make it simpler, simply wash, and condition your hair and let it air dry naturally. You don't have to apply styling product and scrunch it into your hair for this method -- it just may help you attain better waves. However, before your hair dries, try applying some curl or wave enhancing serum or spray. You don't have to scrunch this through your hair, but simply spritz it in your hair and comb it through with a brush or your fingers. This will give your hair a little extra wave, making it easier to curl. Apply heat protectant to your hair. After you hair is dry, take a heat protectant spray or serum and spritz throughout your hair. Heating tools can damage your hair by drying it out, but applying a protectant will reduce that damage. After you have applied it to your hair use a comb or brush to evenly distribute it through your hair. Section off your hair. Section your hair in about three or four sections (depending on the thickness and length of your hair). You can section it by the bottom third, middle third, and top third of your hair, or you can section it off by splitting it down your part and pulling it in front of your shoulders. Use a clip to loosely pin up the hair you aren't working with. If you are able to leave your hair down, do so. Pinning it up may cause some of the curl to fall out, or it can create creases in your hair. If you are going to clip it up, do so loosely, so that the hair is in a very loose bun or loop. Curl sections of your hair. Use a one inch curling iron, or a wand, and begin to curl sections of your hair. Instead of clamping your hair in the curling iron, wrap your hair around the curling iron. Point your curling iron or wand down, and start at the root of your hair, wrapping a one inch section of your hair around the curling iron until you reach the ends of your hair. Then, hold for five or so seconds. The reason you want to wrap your hair around the curling iron instead of clamping it in the iron is because this will give you a more wavy hair look. Curling your hair like usual can create bouncy curls that look less natural. Wrapping your hair around the curling iron also creates a looser look at the top of your hair and a tighter wave at the bottom, which gives you a more natural wave look. To create waves that curl backwards, meaning they curl away from your face, place the curling iron or wand behind the strand of hair that you are curling. For example, grab a piece of hair about one inch (you can do less or more if you want tighter or looser waves) and hold it out. Then, take your curling iron, pointing downwards, and stick it behind that section of hair. Begin to wrap your hair around the curling iron or wand, starting at the top and wrapping it until your ends reach the tip of the curling iron. Continue to curl and then spray. Once you have curled all of your hair, take hairspray and hold it about six to 10 inches away from your hair. Spray evenly throughout your hair. Don't spray too much, though. You don't want your hair to have that crunchy feel. Try to spray closer to the ends of your hair rather than your roots. Comb through your waves. Now that you've curled all of your hair, you may want to comb your waves or curls out a little bit. Look at your waves and decide if you want them looser. Then, take your fingers and run them through your hair. Comb them through each wave gently until you have your desired wave. Then, use your fingers to fix any fly aways. If you brushed some of your pieces out a little too much you can always re-curl them. You can do this with your wand or curling iron, or you can simply take your fingers and twist your hair back into the curl. If you used hairspray it will hopefully twist back pretty easily. Try not to use a brush or regular comb on your hair while it is wavy. These can brush out your waves making your hair look bushy, and then you'll likely have to restyle your hair. If you wake up with a lot of tangles in your hair, simply run your fingers through your hair and consider re-curling some of the pieces that have fallen. You can also use an anti-frizz serum to help prevent any fly aways. Wash your hair in the evening. Use a wave or curl enhancing shampoo and conditioner and wash your hair as usual. Make sure you do this in the evening, shortly before you go to bed, as your waves will set overnight as your hair dries. The benefit of this styling technique is it requires little work! If you normally shower in the morning, you can do this routine as you get ready. However, your braid needs time to dry and an hour or so may not be enough time to allow your braid to dry and to create waves in your hair. To speed up the process use a blow dryer on your hair while it is braided. Ultimately, doing this at night will give you the best results. Comb through your hair. Once you have showered, squeeze out excess water from your hair. Then take a wide tooth comb and comb out any tangles or messiness in your hair. If your hair is dripping wet you can squeeze out some of the moisture with an old cotton t-shirt or microfiber cloth. It's important to brush your hair before you braid it, because you don't want to brush it after you take the braid out. This will likely brush some of the waves out. To comb your hair, start at the ends of your hair and work out any tangles. Then, move your way up through your hair until you reach the roots. Create a braid in your hair. Now, take your hair and braid it into one long braid (or you can do two braids -- this will create tighter waves). You can do a loose braid or a tighter braid -- it all depends on how tight you want your waves to be. Also, remember that you will be sleeping on this braid so do what feels most comfortable to you. If you want waves that start higher up your head, french braid your hair. Keep in mind that a tighter braid may make your hair look more crimped than braided, so doing a looser braid is the safer option. If your hair isn't very wavy once you take your braid out, you can always try it again another night. You can also touch up your waves with a one inch wand or curling iron. To braid your hair, separate it into three equal sections. Then, take the left section and place it over the middle section. Then, take the right section and place it over the left section that is now the middle section. Finally, place the middle section (now the left section) and place it over the right (now middle) section. Continue to do this until you reach the ends of your hair. It's best to braid your hair while it is wet so the braid dries in your hair. However, some people have such thick hair that it won't dry completely in a braid overnight. If this is the case with your hair, try air drying it a little bit before you go to bed and before you put it in a braid. Then, once it is somewhat dry, braid it and go to sleep. When you wake up your hair will hopefully be completely dry. Take your braid out after you've slept. The key to this hairstyle is allowing your hair lots of time to dry in the braid. Go to bed and then don't remove the braid until you wake up the next day. Once you wake up, undo your braid. Your hair should be somewhat wavy. Then, spritz your hair with a little bit of hairspray to help hold your waves and you're done! If you are disappointed with the waviness in your hair, you can always touch it up with a curling iron or wand. You can also spritz your hair with water and apply a styling product to your hair to help add bounce to your waves. Another option you have is to straighten your braid once it is dry. Simply leave your braid in, making sure it is completely dry. Then, take a flat iron and run it slowly over your braid a few times. It's helpful if you have braids small enough to fit in a flat iron, so if you need to, take your braid out and re-braid your hair into five or 10 braids. Once your braids have cooled, take them out and spritz them with a little bit of hairspray. Finished. | Wash and condition your hair. Comb through your hair while wet. Apply styling product to your hair. Continue to scrunch your hair. Comb through any messiness. Blow dry or air dry your hair. Repeat all the steps from the previous method. Apply heat protectant to your hair. Section off your hair. Curl sections of your hair. Continue to curl and then spray. Comb through your waves. Wash your hair in the evening. Comb through your hair. Create a braid in your hair. Take your braid out after you've slept. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-Business-Casual | How to Dress Business Casual | If you're a woman trying to dress business casual, choose black or grey skirts or dresses that fall just above the knees, or neutral-colored pants, like khakis or corduroys. Pair these with shirts that aren't too revealing, and wear closed-toed shoes. If you're a man, try pleated, dark-colored pants, like trousers or dress pants. Make sure they fall to at least the top of your shoes! Pick collared, long-sleeved, button-down shirts, and always wear them tucked in. Finish your look with leather dress shoes. | Ask for specific expectations. If you're not sure what your company's policy is, ask the HR rep. Dress more conservatively on the first day if you have no other coworkers to benchmark your attire against. Business casual is often thrown out there to describe how your employer thinks you should dress at work. The problem is that the expectations of individual companies often differ. For example, one company might want you to dress in business attire, minus a suit coat and tie, while another company may encourage you to wear khakis or jeans. When you are told to dress business casual, it is best to ask for details. Ask if your employer has an employee handbook that more clearly delineates the company's business casual policy. Observe other employees. Look around and see what the other employees are wearing; this is a good gauge of what your employer expects when they say business casual. Dress formally for interviews. If you're going on an interview and you don't know what your interviewer expects you to wear, the standard is business formal. Remember, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed. Those who are interviewing for a job in business, banking and wealth management, politics, academia, engineering, or health sectors should dress business formal unless otherwise instructed. If no clothing type is specified, and the company you're interviewing for is outside the sectors listed above, stick with business casual. Remember that skirts and dresses are acceptable as long as the hem falls just above the knees. As with men, black and grey are more formal, making for a safer bet. Avoid low-cut dresses or those with high slits. Avoid dresses (especially) and skirts that are more skin-tight. No sundresses. Opt for pants such as khakis, corduroy pants, linen pants or dress pants. No jeans, unless otherwise noted. If jeans are allowed by your employer, distressed jeans, jeans with holes, and "boyfriend" jeans are not desirable choices. Neutral colors are best. Choose from a variety of shirts. Women have a few more options in this department than the men. Opt for conservative and not too revealing. Blouses, plain shirts, cotton shirts, sweaters, turtlenecks, vests, and sleeveless shirts are all acceptable. Tucked-in or untucked can both go, depending on the shirt. Unusual patterns are acceptable, as long as they are not wild. The standard, however, is a monotone shirt. Use a collar for a more formal look, and collarless shirts for a less formal look. Try footwear such as leather shoes, flat trouser shoes, high heels; no open toed shoes. Avoid flip flops, sandals and sneakers. Heels are okay, so long as they aren't too conspicuous. Complete the business casual look. Remember dress socks or pantyhose (with skirts or dresses) and tastefully accessorize with light jewelry and a simple purse. Check the list. Ask yourself the following set of questions if you're still not sure whether your outfit is acceptable. Would I wear this clubbing? The answer should be 'no.' Would I wear this to sleep? The answer should be 'no.' Would I wear this to do yard work? The answer should be 'no.' Would I wear this to a costume party? The answer should be 'no.' Choose shirts that have collars, such as long-sleeve button down shirts. Always tuck the shirt in and pair the shirt with an appropriate belt. For business casual, tie is optional. White button-down shirts are the most formal and therefore the safest. Unlike pants, all manner of shirt colors are acceptable: Purple, pink, yellow, blue, and red. Choose shirts (and pants) in "formal" fabric: Cotton is king, and comes in many different flavors. Wool is acceptable, if itchy. Silk, rayon, and linen are frowned upon. Choose shirts in "formal patterns: Oxford, plaid, and poplin are a little less formal, but perfectly acceptable. Twill, herringbone, and broadcloth patterns are more formal and nice to use if sprucing up. Hawaiian and other irregular patterns are considered too casual. Wear pants styles such as khakis, dress pants, trousers and corduroy pants. Jeans are not considered business casual. Pleated pants and dark colors are more formal, conservative choices. If you want to be on the safe side, over dressing is less frowned upon than under dressing. Pants should extend to the top of your shoe, or slightly longer. Pants that don't reach down to your shoe are considered high-water pants; pants that fold and bunch up near the feet are considered too baggy. Avoid pants in loud colors such as red, yellow, and purple. Camouflage is not allowed, neither are white pants — they feel a little too informal for even business casual. Stick with black, brown, grey, khaki, dark blue and dark green pants. Consider pairing your shirt with a sweater or sweater vest. V-neck sweaters work best if wearing a a collar. Turtlenecks can be worn in combination with a blazer for a sleek look and a little bit of novelty. If you want to wear a suit coat and still look business casual, dress it down with khakis instead of suit pants. Select formal leather shoes, and don’t forget the dress socks. Stick to black, brown, or grey shoes. Oxfords, lace-ups, and loafers are all standards. Study the list of don'ts. Avoid the following items, which, fortunately or unfortunately, don't fall under the category of business casual: Sneakers, sandals, flip-flops or other open-toed shoes. Sports shirts, sweatshirts, sport team jackets, and athletic socks. Shorts and capris. Jeans. Very tight, and hence revealing, cuts of pants. No skinny-trousers allowed. | Ask for specific expectations. Observe other employees. Dress formally for interviews. Remember that skirts and dresses are acceptable as long as the hem falls just above the knees. Opt for pants such as khakis, corduroy pants, linen pants or dress pants. Choose from a variety of shirts. Try footwear such as leather shoes, flat trouser shoes, high heels; no open toed shoes. Complete the business casual look. Check the list. Choose shirts that have collars, such as long-sleeve button down shirts. Wear pants styles such as khakis, dress pants, trousers and corduroy pants. Consider pairing your shirt with a sweater or sweater vest. Select formal leather shoes, and don’t forget the dress socks. Study the list of don'ts. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Think-for-Yourself | How to Think for Yourself | If you want to learn to think for yourself, start by examining things you're told by teachers, parents, and other authority figures to see if you actually believe them. Ask questions and do your own research to learn more about a topic rather than just taking other people's words for it. It can be hard, but try to avoid giving in to the pressure to think or believe the same way as your friends or family if that's not how you feel. | Tackle one problem each day. Everyone faces problems or issues in their day-to-day lives, whether it's who to vote for, what job offer to accept, or how to deal with a family member. Each day, break one of these problems down in your free time. Identify the problem and decide whether or not it's something you have control over, like what job offer you accept or your aunt refusing to get help for a medical issue. If you can't control it, don't dwell on it. Gather the information you need to make a decision. For example, if you got multiple job offers, consider your salary, benefits package, and the work environment. Use the gathered information to make a decision. For example, if one job has better pay and benefits, you might consider accepting that position. Follow through on your course of action, while being aware that your strategy might have to change as you get new information. Keep an Intellectual Journal. Begin by describing a situation that is emotionally significant to you. Next, write in detail how you responded to the situation. Analyze what the reaction might say about you and how you might have been feeling below the surface. Then, write down how you could have responded differently, or how you might respond differently in the future. Make sure that all of your entries follow the same format. Keep it consistent. Reexamine what you think and why. You might be surprised by how many of your views on things have been shaped by the family of origin, cultural group, geographic location, schools, organizations, or employers you belong to, whether they are religious or cultural. Write down a list of things you are required to believe (or not) as a member of that group. And then decide whether you truly believe those things or not. For example, some religions forbid abortion. Consider your views on abortion and whether or not you agree with it. You can come to the same conclusion as your religion does, but make sure it's because what you truly believe. Question everything. One of the best ways to think for yourself is to get information yourself, rather than relying on others. Ask lots of questions, particularly in situations that affect you directly, like voting to put people in office or which school you're going to go to. Don't just let people tell you what you should do. Make sure that you use reliable sources when you are conducting research. Keep trying. If you've had a hard time thinking for yourself before, you might find that you're swayed by other people the first few times you try to think for yourself. That's okay! Changing habits of thoughts are some of that hardest habits to change. Give yourself time to learn how to resist other people's opinions and think for yourself. Write down your values. In order to stay true to your beliefs and values, you need to know what they are. Write a list of the values and things that are most important to you. Refer to that list whenever you're feeling uncertain about how you feel about things. Some common values are authenticity (being as genuine a person as you can), faith, kindness, justice, love, and respect. Act according to your values. Learning to think for yourself isn't going to have much of an impact if you don't act on those thoughts. Once you've had time to think about things, make a decision about how you'll act, and stick to it. For example, if you're trying to decide who to vote for, research to see how the candidates live up to your values. If you believe in authenticity, kindness, and respect, but one of the candidates goes against all that, he's probably not someone you want to vote for! When you are setting goals for yourself, make sure that your goals match up with your values. Resist peer pressure. If you're asking a friend questions about a certain issue, or if you're asking them for evidence to support their point of view, they might try to pressure you into seeing things their way. Resist giving in to that peer pressure – especially if you have a lot of friends saying the same thing. Sometimes it's best to just not respond, because the more you do, the more others might try to convince you of their point of view. For example, if your friend says that vaccines are bad, you should ask them to support their claims. If they refuse, don't listen to them and do your own research. It's okay to respectfully disagree with people. For example, after stating your opinion, you could say: "You're entitled to your opinion and I appreciate you respecting mine.” Trust your instincts. If you're making a decision or discussing something, and you just feel like something's not right, listen to yourself! You often know what's best for you and your life, as well as how you actually feel deep down about certain things. Don't discount that little voice. Listen to it more often and it could help you to think for yourself. For example, when choosing between two job offers, you might be pressured to take the higher-paying one, but your instincts might tell you to take the job where you'll be happier. Pick your battles as well. If you feel that the person you're talking to won't respond well to your opinion, you might want to keep your opinion to yourself. Gather reliable information. In some situations, it just doesn't make sense to “think for yourself.” If you're in a situation where you know that there are experts in the field who know more than you possibly could, trust their research and judgment. In that case, it's okay to listen to what other people think. For example, if your doctor tells you that you have an illness, and there are certain medications you need to take, then it is usually best to follow their recommendations. If your source is less reliable, do some extra research. For example, if you read an article about the efficacy of certain medical treatments, research those treatments, paying special attention to reputable sources like the Cleveland or Mayo Clinic websites. Examine opposing viewpoints. One good way to form your own opinion is to make sure you're getting input from a lot of different viewpoints. If you're only listening to one person, with one opinion, even thinking for yourself will be influenced by that person's view or the evidence they give you. Make sure you get input or evidence from opposing sides, and give yourself the chance to sort through it all. Then make your own decision. Ask for evidence. If someone is trying to convince you of something, ask for evidence. The evidence might be different depending on the situation, demand to be convinced of something. Then take the time to examine the evidence they give you. Does it seem convincing? Are the sources reliable sources like serious news organizations or professional websites? For example, if someone's trying to convince you to switch the type of cell phone you have, ask them why, then weight their answer against your needs. | Tackle one problem each day. Keep an Intellectual Journal. Reexamine what you think and why. Question everything. Keep trying. Write down your values. Act according to your values. Resist peer pressure. Trust your instincts. Gather reliable information. Examine opposing viewpoints. Ask for evidence. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-a-Dog | How to Catch a Dog | To catch a dog, start by using dog food or treats to lure it to a contained area, such as a fenced-in yard. Next, kneel down or sit on the ground with a leash by your side. Then, entice the dog by holding out a small bit of food in your hand. When the dog comes to you, let it eat the food as you quickly put the leash around its neck. If the dog refuses to come to you or won't let you put on the leash, contact animal control or the police for assistance. | Observe the dog's body language. Before moving any closer to the dog, watch his body language from a distance. Erratic behavior could be a sign of rabies. Growling or snarling would indicate that he is feeling aggressive. The dog may tense his muscles or walk stiffly if he is fearful. Determine your comfort level with catching the dog. Observing the dog's body language is a good way for you to decide if you can, or should, catch him. If the dog is fearful, but does not seem threatening or overly aggressive, you may be able to catch him. However, if his body language suggests that he is not afraid to attack or bite, contact your local animal control or police to catch him. Call the police if you are in a rural area where there may not be an animal control center close by. When you contact the authorities, provide as much information as you can: your name and number, and precise information about the location of the dog (e.g., landmarks, mile markers, road names). Also, ask for an expected time of arrival. If you can, keep a close eye on the dog until the authorities arrive. Ask if anyone knows that a dog is missing. If you see the dog in a populated area, such as a neighborhood, consider asking some of the residents if they are aware that a dog is missing. If no one is aware that a dog is missing, recognizes the dog, or knows who the dog's owner is, you will need to proceed with either catching the dog on your own or contacting the local authorities. If you see a dog that looks lost in a neighborhood, it could be that he has wandered only a short distance away from his owner's house. Secure the area. This is particularly important if you see a dog by the side of the road and want to get him in your car. Because the dog is already in 'fight or flight' mode, attempts to catch him may cause him to run into traffic and possibly get hit by a car. Try to create a barrier between him and oncoming traffic using such materials as a crate, a long piece of cloth, or a length of rope. Signal to oncoming traffic to drive around the secured area to keep both you and him safe. It may help to put your hazard lights on. If you see the dog in a neighborhood, use tasty dog food lure him to a contained area, such as a fenced-in yard, where he could not easily escape. You may need the assistance of several people to do this. Keep in mind that it will be difficult to move him to another area if he is not comfortable with you. Display non-threatening signals. Your ability to catch the dog will depend on how comfortable he is with you. If your first move is to walk towards the dog, no matter how slowly and carefully, you will probably scare him off. Rather, you will need to present yourself as non-threatening from a safe distance away. Consider licking your lips or yawning. Act like you are eating food off the ground. Crinkle an empty bag of potato chips and, with the dog watching you, pretend that you are dropping food on the ground and kneel down as if you were eating the food. Say 'Nummy!' as you are 'dropping' the food. Sit down on the ground, or maybe even lie on your back if it is safe for you to do so. The closer you are to the ground, the less threatening you will seem to the dog. Once the dog sees that you are not a threat, he may approach you simply out of curiosity. Avoid making threatening gestures. Even if your intentions are good, some of your actions will probably stir up the dog's fear and adrenaline and cause him to run away. For example, do not the call to the dog. Chances are that people have been repeatedly calling to the dog in attempts to rescue him. Being called to yet again will make the dog even more fearful. Avoid patting your leg or walking towards him. Do not make eye contact with the dog. Entice the dog to come closer to you. Although the dog may no longer be frightened of you, he may still be wary of approaching you. One of the best ways to get him to walk towards you is with tasty morsels of food, such as hot dogs, canned food, and meat-based treats. The trick is to give the food to him in small bits—this will keep him wanting more. If you give him a big chunk of food, he may just take the food and run away again. Soft food with a strong aroma is ideal. You can either toss the food towards him or hold the food in your hand. Either way, try to appear disinterested in the food—your disinterest will likely pique his interest. If the dog refuses to come closer to you, you can either contact the local authorities or try to catch him in a humane trap. Put a leash on the dog. Provided the dog is willing to come close to you, you can try to catch him with a leash. Before you put the leash on him, leave it limp on the ground for him to approach and investigate it. Keep feeding him tasty food and showing him you're not a threat. When you go to put the leash on him, you will need to be calm and swift. Any sudden or jerky movements could make it very difficult for you to get the leash on. It may be helpful to make the leash into a slip lead by threading the clasp through the leash's handle and placing the large loop of the leash over the dog's neck. By creating a slip lead, the loop will automatically tighten as the dog tries to pull away from you, giving you a little more control. If the dog refuses to let you put a leash on him, stop immediately and call animal control or the police. Do not risk injury to yourself. Check for identification. Once you have caught the dog with a leash, check to see if he has a collar with an identification tag. If he does not have a collar, then a veterinarian or animal shelter staff can scan the dog for a microchip. A microchip is a small chip placed under a dog's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The chip's number links to an electronic database that has the owner's contact information. Transport the dog to a veterinarian or animal shelter. If you are able to get the dog safely in your car, take him to a veterinarian or animal shelter right away. Dog owners commonly go to animal shelters when they have lost their dog, so you may prefer to take the dog to the nearest animal shelter first. The decision is up to you. You may need to put some tasty food in the backseat of your car to lure him in. Do not attempt to transport the dog if he becomes agitated once he is in the car. His agitation could make driving very dangerous for you. Keep the car doors closed and contact the local animal control or police to come pick up the dog. Surrender the dog. If you were able to catch the dog, you will now need to decide what you are going to do with him. As heartwarming as it may sound to adopt him, you should first explore your different options. One option is to surrender him by taking him to an animal shelter. If you surrender him to an animal shelter, the shelter will place a 'stray hold' on the dog before making him available for adoption. This holding period, usually between three and 10 days, is a legal obligation that ensures the dog will not be adopted out if his original owner claims him within that timeframe. Surrendering the dog at the animal shelter may make it easier for his owner to find him. Be mindful that your veterinarian's office may not be able to house the dog. In fact, some veterinary offices serve as pick-up locations for animal shelters. Find the dog's owner. If you choose not to surrender the dog, then you will need to foster him temporarily and attempt to find the dog's owner. In most places, you are legally obligated to do your due diligence to locate the dog's owner before rehoming the dog. The amount of time required to search for the owner may vary by location. Check with your local animal control about the requirements for your city and state. Your efforts to find the dog's owner must be documented. Contact your local animal control center or animal shelter if you decide to find the dog's owner on your own. This lets them know you have the dog in case the owner contacts them. If the dog has an identification tag or microchip, contact the owner directly. If you cannot contact the owner directly, post flyers in different locations (e.g., veterinary offices, supermarkets, newspaper). The flyers should have a picture of the dog, information about where and when you found him, and your contact information. Do not include every detail about the dog on the flyers. That way, when people start to contact you, you can ask more specific questions to identify the actual owner. Consider posting the dog's information on animal rescue websites, such as Petfinder. Find a new home for the dog. If the period of due diligence has passed and you are unable to locate the dog's owner, begin to find the dog a new home, whether it's your home or someone else's. If you want to adopt him, you will need to prove that you are his new owner by obtaining a new license, collar, identification tag, and providing proof of vaccination. If you have other pets, consider if they would get along with the new dog. The time you spent fostering the dog would have let you observe the interactions between the dog, your current pets, and other household members. If adopting the dog will not work for you, work on finding another owner for the dog. Take him to your veterinarian for some initial care (e.g., vaccinations, deworming), then start putting the word out in the community through friends, neighbors, and social media. Contact local animal shelters and rescue groups for help with finding a new home for the dog. | Observe the dog's body language. Determine your comfort level with catching the dog. Ask if anyone knows that a dog is missing. Secure the area. Display non-threatening signals. Avoid making threatening gestures. Entice the dog to come closer to you. Put a leash on the dog. Check for identification. Transport the dog to a veterinarian or animal shelter. Surrender the dog. Find the dog's owner. Find a new home for the dog. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Drink-Responsibly | How to Drink Responsibly | Before you head out drinking, set a limit of how many drinks you can have while you're out, such as “1 beer an hour” or “2 mixed drinks total.” If you're not sure how much you can drink, alternate your alcoholic drinks with water and try to stick to about 1 drink an hour. You should also know in advance how you're getting home, whether that's riding with a designated driver, calling a cab or Uber, or taking public transportation. | Drink with a group of friends. If you want to drink responsibly, then the first thing you should do is avoid drinking alone, or drinking with people you don't really know or trust all that well. If you're out on your own and have no one looking out for you, you can get in all kinds of trouble without anyone even knowing something's wrong. Whether you're heading to a party or out to the bars, always make sure to drink with a group of people you like and trust. Don't drink with people who encourage binge drinking or look down on you for not drinking, or for not "keeping up" and drinking a lot. You should be comfortable to drink at your own pace. Don't go out with people who have a reputation for running off to hook up with someone they meet at a bar or just disappearing in the middle of the night. Make sure you go with people you can rely on. Create a "buddy system" with at least one of your friends. When you go out with friends, at least one of them should be a person who knows her own limit, or even who doesn't drink very much, and will be willing to watch out for you and to tell you when it looks like you've had enough. Sometimes, you could be drinking way over your limit while being too stubborn to admit it, and this friend can let you know when it's time to switch to water. This friend can tell you when you've had enough, keep you from driving, and be prepared to take you home if you're having a rough night. Don't abuse the "buddy system" -- if you're always that girl, no one will want to go out with you. You should be able to look out for your friend while she looks out for you. Know your limits. Before all else, know yourself and your own limits. It doesn't take long to learn how little or how much alcohol you can tolerate and everybody is unique in its ability to tolerate alcohol. Listen to your body and respond in a way that nurtures it rather than abuses it. The first time you drink, you should drink with close friends in the comfort of your own home or their homes, so that you don't get socially overwhelmed. This will help you get a sense of what you can and can not handle. You can set your limits very concretely. Your limits could be "four glasses of wine in six hours," "four beers a night," or "two mixed drinks a night" (depending on what's in them). Tell yourself what your limits are before you leave so that you're more likely to stick to them throughout the night. If it's your first time out drinking, it's important to adopt a steady and slow pace, so that you can come to learn your alcohol tolerance. Know how you're getting home. If you're going out with friends, you should know exactly how you're getting home the night before. There are a few options: the easiest is to have a designated driver before you go out, so you have a person who will forgo alcohol that night and gets you home safely. You can also get home by taking a bus or other forms of public transportation or just call a cab or walk if you're close enough to the bar. Any of these plans are fine. What you should not do is drive to the bar and hope that one of your friends can drive you home, or let someone who you know will drink a lot drive you there, hoping that someone else can take over the car later. If you don't drive or have access to a car, regardless of the circumstance, never get into a car driven by someone else who has had too much to drink. Never get into a car with a stranger if you're intoxicated. Alcohol affects your senses and judgment. Get his or her number and wait until you are sober before you decide to pursue him or her further. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet3.jpg\/aid128123-v4-728px-Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Even if you're desperate to get home, it's better to pay for a cab or call a trusted friend to pick you up than to get in the car with someone who is drunk or a stranger just because it's more convenient. Never drive drunk. Don't drive if you're even tipsy. Just one drink per hour can put you over the legal limit for driving. Even if you think you "feel fine," your BAC may indicate otherwise. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/46\/Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet5.jpg\/v4-460px-Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/46\/Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet5.jpg\/aid128123-v4-728px-Drink-Responsibly-Step-4Bullet5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Drink when you're of legal age. If you're in the United States, that means 21, and if you're in other parts of the world, that age can typically range from 16-18. Don't go out with a fake ID or drink on a college campus if you're under the legal age, unless you're prepared to deal with the legal repercussions. If you're breaking the law, you're not being responsible. Don't drink if you're not in a positive frame of mind. Alcohol is a depressant, so if you're already feeling angry, upset, or just unstable, it is very likely to make you feel worse. Though you may think that drinking will make you have the time of your life and forget all of your problems, it'll actually make you feel much worse. You may feel an initial buzz and relief after your first drink or two, but you'll drink yourself into a much worse mood than you started with. You should make a rule of only drinking when you're happy, not when you want to cope with your sadness. Don't ever use drinking as a way to deal with your problems. You'll have to be sober to do that. Don't go out and drink with someone you're mad at. The alcohol will make your anger come out, and you'll be much better off if you settle your conflicts when you're in a lucid frame of mind. Don't drink on an empty stomach. You will feel the effects of alcohol a lot faster if you drink on an empty stomach and increase the likelihood of feeling sick. Most food is better than none at all, but you should try to eat a more hearty meal that is rich in carbs and proteins that can help you absorb the alcohol, instead of just eating some fruit or a salad. Having a meal before you go out will make you much less likely to drink over your limit very quickly. If you've arrived at a bar and realize you haven't eaten, order some food and have a quick bite to eat before you start drinking. Don't worry if this is a bit inconvenient or if it keeps you from drinking for a little while. It'll be worth it. Check with your doctor to see if you can mix your prescription medications with alcohol. If you're on a prescription medication, check with your doctor to make sure that you can drink alcohol on the same day when you took it. It varies by medication, so make sure that you know if your prescription will have any negative interactions with alcohol before you start drinking. Don't drink if you haven't had much sleep. If you're running on two or three hours of sleep, you'll be much better off hitting the hay than hitting up a bar. Alcohol will affect you much more intensely if you're already feeling woozy, tired, and not in control of your own mind and body because you're exhausted. You may have stayed up studying for an exam the night before and could be dying for a celebratory drink with your friends, but you should hold off for another night until you feel well-rested. Don't think that having a super dose of caffeine by chugging three cups of coffee or downing an energy drink will make things better. In fact, mixing a lot of caffeine and alcohol will make you feel even worse and more likely to crash. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Drink-Responsibly-Step-9Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Drink-Responsibly-Step-9Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Drink-Responsibly-Step-9Bullet2.jpg\/aid128123-v4-728px-Drink-Responsibly-Step-9Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Stay hydrated. Alcohol dehydrates and draws vitamins and minerals out of your body. Drink water, soda or water with added vitamins to restore your lost vitamins. Drinking a one to one ratio of non-alcoholic to alcoholic beverages is a good policy – that's one serving of water for every serving of alcohol. It's always preferable to have a greater ratio of non-alcohol to alcohol. Know what you're drinking. While it's good to try something out for the first time, like a " Sex On The Beach " or a beer you've never had before, be aware of its alcohol content before stocking up on more than one. You may not always be able to detect the strength of the alcohol in your drink owing to sweeteners, milk or cream or other fillers that cover the alcohol. Moreover, your own personal reaction to an unfamiliar drink may be faster inebriation than with your usual drinks. Some contents of mixed drinks can bring up your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) more quickly than others, depending on your weight. Alcohol tolerance, like many believe, will not result in a lower BAC compared to a person who doesn't have tolerance built up. It's true that beers are a safer choice than a mixed drink, but you should know the alcohol content of the beer you're drinking. Though many have an alcohol content of 4-5%, some beers can have an alcohol content of 8-9% or more, which can make a big difference. Have no more than one drink per hour. If you want to drink responsibly, then you should have no more than one drink per hour. "One drink" means one 12 oz. beer, one 5 oz. a glass of wine, or one 1.5 oz. shot of 40% alcohol per hour. It may be tough to stick to this limit when your friends are drinking much more, but this is the way to be safe. Sipping on a beer or nursing a glass of wine will take longer than taking a shot and is recommended because the alcohol won't hit you all at once. People often have more than one drink per hour just because they have nothing to do with their hands and start fidgeting or feeling nervous when they're not holding a drink. If this is the case with you, just hold onto a water or a club soda in between drinks so there's always something in your hands. Pace yourself. It's important to keep a steady pace when you're drinking. It can take time for alcohol to take its effect. You might feel okay for another shot after a couple of minutes, but keep in mind that you probably haven't felt its effects just yet. Nibble on some food or drink some water in the meantime, to allow the alcohol to diffuse through your body. Avoid drinking games. Though drinking games like bullshit, kings, beer pong, and flip-cup may be a great way to pass time at a party and make some friends you'll never remember, these games encourage extreme binge drinking and are guaranteed to make you forget where you are in just a few minutes. You can also play these games by discreetly pouring out the alcohol you "should" drink, or passing it on to a friend who hasn't had a lot to drink. Get comfortable with your surroundings. If you're at a house party, get acquainted with the people who own the house and its facilities. Know where the bathroom is. Find a secluded place and choose to keep your shoes or coat there (but never your purse or wallet). If you find that you are losing control, quickly make an excuse ("I left my phone in my coat pocket!") and go to that secluded place to calm down and/or to dump drinks. If you need to get home, find the house owners and ask them to call a taxi or to arrange for a sober person to take you home. If you're in a public place, make note of all of the exits upon your arrival. You should do this instinctively in case of an emergency such as a fire outbreak so that you know in advance the closest point of exit. It is also helpful to know where the nearest cab rank or public transportation stop is located to the place you're at. Don't make things harder for yourself; always have an exit strategy. Make sure you know how to get home by heart. If you get drunk to the point of losing your memory , your self-preservation will be as impaired as your inhibitions and you may become easily lost. If you don't know how to get home, you probably shouldn't go out drinking. Avoid peer pressure. Always remember that you're drinking to enjoy and have fun, not to show off. The whole point of drinking is to enjoy the drink, enjoy the company and feel free. You don't need to "keep up," or engage in stupid competitions that could ruin the night and even friendships. If you're hanging out with people who encourage you to drink more even though you don't want to, then you're hanging out with the wrong people. If you really want people to stop bugging you about why you're not drinking more, hold a club soda or Coke in your hands and put a lime in it so people will think you're driving and will leave you alone. This is a good short-term solution; the long-term solution is to stay away from people who put unwanted pressure on you. Stop drinking if you start to feel drunk. Symptoms of intoxication include feeling a loss of control over your thoughts, blurry vision, slurred speech, and difficulty with maintaining your balance. Stop drinking if you vomit. While this is generally a given, it's important that you don't attempt to drink any more alcohol, even if you feel "better" once you've thrown up. Vomiting is a signal that your body can't take the amount of alcohol that you have consumed and the rejection is your body's last line of defense coming into play. At this stage, you have truly overdone it and it's now time to care about your health rather than your partying. If you feel the urge to vomit, then you should go to a bathroom and do it. Vomiting is a way for your body to release the excess of alcohol that doesn't belong in your system. You shouldn't force yourself to vomit, but you shouldn't hold it in, either. Lie on your side if you're feeling sick. Whether you've thrown up, feel like you might throw up, or just feel terrible, you should lie down on your side to prevent yourself from choking on your vomit if you're lying on your back. Keep a bucket by your mouth and be prepared to throw up if it's necessary. If you find yourself in this unpleasant state, don't go home by yourself -- have a trusted friend stay the night so she can watch over you when you need help. If you are feeling sick, experiencing headaches or anything feels wrong, tell someone. A responsible person needs to keep a watch over you in case you've developed alcohol poisoning and need medical intervention quickly. If you see someone else who is really sick lying down, make sure to turn that person over on his or her side, too. Don't make any sexual choices when you've been drinking. Though you may think that alcohol may give you some liquid courage to finally talk to or to hook up with your crush, it can actually impair your decision-making process and can lead you to do something you'll deeply regret later. You can flirt a little, get a guy or girl's number, and check back in when you're sober, but you should avoid going home with anyone you just met, or even just making out at a bar -- it's not classy behavior, and you won't be proud of yourself later. Don't accept a drink from a stranger. If you've walked into a party and a guy offers you a drink right away, don't accept it unless you see him make it or grab it for you so you know exactly what it's the drink. If the guy just grabs you a beer from a cooler, then that's fine, but if he disappears into the kitchen and returns with a "mystery drink" that may be filled with alcohol or even date-rape drugs, then you'll be in the middle of a very dangerous situation. You don't have to be rude about declining the drink. Just be honest about your reasoning. It's better to look unfriendly than to be in danger. Don't leave your drink unattended. Your drink should be in your hand or at least in your sight at all times, whether you're at a party or at a bar. If you set your drink down and walk away, someone could mess with your drink, or you could even end up picking up a stronger drink by mistake, thinking it was yours. If you get up to go to the restroom, get a close friend to hold your drink for you or take it with you. This will help you avoid anyone tampering with your drink. | Drink with a group of friends. Create a "buddy system" with at least one of your friends. Know your limits. Know how you're getting home. Drink when you're of legal age. Don't drink if you're not in a positive frame of mind. Don't drink on an empty stomach. Check with your doctor to see if you can mix your prescription medications with alcohol. Don't drink if you haven't had much sleep. Stay hydrated. Know what you're drinking. Have no more than one drink per hour. Pace yourself. Avoid drinking games. Get comfortable with your surroundings. Avoid peer pressure. Stop drinking if you start to feel drunk. Stop drinking if you vomit. Lie on your side if you're feeling sick. Don't make any sexual choices when you've been drinking. Don't accept a drink from a stranger. Don't leave your drink unattended. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deter-Bees | How to Deter Bees | If you're trying to keep bees away from an outside area you want to play or picnic in, put some moth balls into mesh bags and hag them from nearby trees. Alternatively, you can build a campfire or light a smoky candle. Bees will either fly away from the smoke or become dazed and less aggressive when they inhale it. To keep bees from stinging you, apply a little catnip or peppermint essential oil, which drives bees away. Around your house, try covering water sources or adding vinegar to them, since that makes the water less attractive to the bees. | Try strong-scented natural repellents. Catnip essential oil has been shown to be effective at driving away bees and mosquitoes, and can be purchased from aromatherapy shops or online. Other strong-scented substances such as peppermint oil or cloves are often used to repel insects, but may not work as well as other options. Do not apply these substances to children under three years of age. If not sold with instructions for applying to skin, look up the substance online first, to see if it causes irritation or health problems. Spray commercial repellents. Bees do not seek out humans unless they perceive them as a threat, so insect repellants for personal protection are not typically useful. However, some specialized bee repellants such as Bee Go or Honey Robber can be used to repel bees from an area. These are available from stores that sell beekeeping equipment. In the United States, check the label for an EPA-approved logo before buying, so you know it is safe for human use and the environment. Spray repellents are by far the most effective type of commercial insect repellent. Candles, foggers, coils, clip-on battery-powered devices, wristbands, and electronic sound-based repellents rarely work to drive off insects. Stay alert in wilderness areas. Listen for a buzzing noise while walking through the wilderness, and don't put your hand into any crevices you can't see into. Bees often nest among rocks or in trees, so be extra alert while climbing. While most honeybees do not bother humans, "Africanized" honeybees will aggressively defend their hives. These are found in many areas in Southern America, Central America, and along the southern border of the United States. If you hear a hive, or you know there are hives in the area, keep pets nearby, preferably on a leash. Consider wearing light-colored clothing. While clothing probably does not have a major effect on bee attraction, dark clothing and red clothing is more likely to cause bees to perceive you as a threat. Leather and furry articles of clothing may also alarm bees. Avoid strong scents and loud noises around Africanized honeybees. The USDA and some other agencies recommend not using strongly scented perfume, shampoo, gum, or other materials in areas with Africanized honeybees. Similarly, loud noises from chainsaws, lawn mowers, and other machinery may alarm these especially high-strung bees. These factors are unlikely to matter around other bees unless you have already disturbed the physical hive itself. Remember that some treatments for dogs, horses, and other animals may contain strong scents as well. While one study did not find any bees attracted to perfume, the study was small and may or may not have included Africanized honey bees. Run to shelter if attacked. If you are attacked by a large number of bees, immediately run to the nearest vehicle or building. If there isn't a shelter nearby, keep running until the bees stop following you, as they will typically return to their hive once you're far enough away. Pull your shirt up over your face only if it does not slow you down. Do not enter a body of water unless you have no other choice. Some bees may wait for you to come up for air, then continue stinging. Once you are safe, remove bee stingers from yourself by scraping them with your fingernail, the edge of credit card, or a similar object. Do not pull them out, as this can cause more venom to enter the wound. Drive bees away with smoke. Bees will flee from smoke, or become dazed and less aggressive if they inhale too much. Build a campfire or light a smoky candle to keep bees away from your camping or picnicking area. A barbecue is unlikely to be effective, due to the attractive scent of meat. Citronella candles, which are often sold as insect repellants, may be effective at driving away bees purely because of the smoke, not the citronella. Use mothballs. Mothballs contain a powerful pesticide that can drive away or kill many insects, including bees. This option is more commonly used in attics and storage spaces, but some picnickers put mothballs in fine mesh bags or old nylon stockings, and hang them from trees. Mothballs can be dangerous to humans as well. Keep mothballs away from children, and avoid the strong-smelling fumes they produce. Use bitter almond oil. Bitter almond oil, or its pure active ingredient benzaldehyde, can be used to repel bees. Pour a little onto a rag, and keep it in a warm, breezy, outdoor area where it will evaporate quickly. Be aware that it may cause harm in large quantities, although some studies disagree. Keep the rag away from pets and children. Some people add an equal amount of tea tree oil to the rag, which may also drive away bees. This has not been scientifically tested, but may work in some cases. Lure bees to other areas nearby during picnics. Sometimes, attracting bees to alternate options may be an effective method of control, especially when you are using deterrent methods around your own food. Some people report success when laying out dishes of sugar water, maple syrup, or strips of banana peel on the opposite side of the lawn or field, so the bees feed from other areas instead. Keep these lures a significant distance away, or they may backfire. If none of this works, keep in mind to bee proof your eating area next time you host a picnic. If wasps are around as well, lay out both sugar and meat, as different types of wasps are attracted to these two substances. Do not use this method at a campground, since animals such as bears or skunks may be attracted by the food as well. Avoid leaving out items that attract bees. Keep food covered and put sweet things away as soon as you've eaten them. Use plastic trash bags and tightly closed lids in all outdoor trash cans. Cover bodies of water when possible. Bees forage for water a fair distance from their hive, so you may see bees around pools, irrigation systems, or other water sources even if there are no hives nearby. If the bees successfully retrieve water, they may return more frequently, and in greater numbers. Use a pool cover when swimming pools are not in use, and repair broken irrigation systems, leaky pipes, or other sources of puddles. Add vinegar to smaller containers of open water. Vinegar may make a water source undesirable for bees, causing them to move somewhere else in search of water. Add about 2 tablespoons (30 mL) vinegar per gallon (3,800 mL) of water before filling outdoor water containers for animals, including bird baths. While pine scented cleaner may be more effective, it should only be used in water that no humans or animals drink from. Use soapy water to kill bees foraging near water. If these deterrents are not enough, killing the bees that come to forage for your water may prevent an influx or more bees. Mix 1/8 cup (30 mL) dish soap with 2 cups (480 mL) of water and put it in a spray bottle. This spray can quickly kill individual bees trying to retrieve water. While the death of a few bees is unlikely to harm the hive, hiring an exterminator for larger-scale control is not recommended unless the hive is already established in or near your house. Bees are an important pollinating species for many plants. Block all holes that could become potential hives. If bees are swarming in your yard, or present in great numbers, you may need to perform a full check of your house and yard to block them from all potential hives. This can be a tedious task, but is still much easier than removing a hive once it is established. Caulk or cover all holes and cracks that are at least 1/8 inches (3 millimeters) wide. Check the walls, foundation, the chimney's attachment to the wall, and all sheds and outbuildings. Use tightly fitting screens to cover larger holes. Cover drains, vents, ill-fitting doorways or windows, and all other large holes with tight-fitting, fine mesh screens. Fill animal burrows with dirt, or cover them until the swarm has passed by. | Try strong-scented natural repellents. Spray commercial repellents. Stay alert in wilderness areas. Consider wearing light-colored clothing. Avoid strong scents and loud noises around Africanized honeybees. Run to shelter if attacked. Drive bees away with smoke. Use mothballs. Use bitter almond oil. Lure bees to other areas nearby during picnics. Avoid leaving out items that attract bees. Cover bodies of water when possible. Add vinegar to smaller containers of open water. Use soapy water to kill bees foraging near water. Block all holes that could become potential hives. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Fake-Jewelry-Silver-Again | How to Make Fake Jewelry Silver Again | If your fake silver jewelry has picked up some dull tarnish, you can bring back its shine with basic household products. Try wiping down your jewelry with warm water and gentle soap or baby shampoo. If that doesn't work, you might be able to break the tarnish down with a mild acid, like lemon juice or even ketchup. Gently wiping your jewelry with toothpaste or metal polish may also do the trick. If your jewelry has gemstones, stick to gentle cleansers like soap and water so that you don't damage them. | Scrub the jewelry with baby shampoo and water for a gentle clean. Mix 1 drop of baby shampoo with 1 c (240 ml) of warm water until it's sudsy. Use a cotton swab to apply the soapy water on the jewelry and clean tight spaces. Once the jewelry is clean, rinse it in cold water and pat it dry with a towel. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush if you need to scrub your jewelry more. Brush the jewelry with lemon juice to break down the tarnish. Mix together equal parts lemon juice and warm water to make your cleaning solution. Let your jewelry sit in the lemon juice solution for about 10 minutes before taking it out and scrubbing it with a toothbrush. Rinse the jewelry in clean water before drying it. Don't use lemon juice without diluting first since it's highly acidic. Avoid submerging any jewelry that has fake stones since the solution could loosen the glue holding them in place. Rub toothpaste onto the jewelry to make it shine again. Squeeze a small dab of toothpaste onto a soft-bristled toothbrush and use it to scrub your jewelry. Move the brush in a circular motion and work the toothpaste into any small crevices. Keep scrubbing the jewelry until it starts to shine before rinsing it off under cold water. Dry the jewelry completely so it doesn't tarnish. Look for a toothpaste made for teeth whitening since it usually has baking soda, which helps clean any discoloration on your jewelry. Put the jewelry in ketchup for 10 minutes to remove any tarnish. The acidity in ketchup can help you clean your jewelry if you're in a pinch. Put enough ketchup in a plate or bowl to cover your jewelry completely. Leave the jewelry in the ketchup for about 10 minutes so it can remove the tarnish. Rinse the ketchup off completely with cold water and dry it with a towel. Wipe the jewelry with soapy water if it has fake gemstones. Gemstones can easily break off if they're soaked in a solution for too long. Soak a cleaning cloth in warm water mixed with dish soap and wring it out before using it. Wipe your jewelry around the edges of the gemstones to gently clean any tarnish from it. Use a toothpick or cotton swab to get rid of tarnish in tight crevices and hard to reach places. Use metal polish to bring your jewelry back to its original shininess. Sometimes your jewelry might not shine after you've cleaned it. Apply a dab of metal polish to a cleaning cloth and wipe your jewelry with it. Work in small circular motions to buff the metal and make it shine again. You can buy metal polish from any home care store. Line a glass bowl with aluminum foil. Choose a glass bowl that's deep enough to hold all of your jewelry inside. Rip off a piece of aluminum foil large enough to fit in your bowl, and line the interior of the bowl with it. Wrap the foil around the top rim of the bowl so it stays in place. Aluminum foil will help pull any tarnish off of your jewelry so it shines again. You can also use an aluminum pie plate if you have one. Mix a solution of warm water, baking soda, and table salt. Add 1 tablespoon (14 g) of baking soda and 1 tablespoon (17 g) of table salt into the bowl. Add enough warm water into the bowl to completely submerge your pieces of jewelry. Stir the solution together with a spoon until it's thoroughly mixed. Submerge your jewelry in the water for 10 minutes. Set your jewelry on the bottom of the bowl so it's completely covered by the water. Leave your jewelry in the solution for 10 minutes so the tarnish breaks down. Check your jewelry after 10 minutes to see if the tarnish has lifted off of your jewelry. If not, put it back in the solution for another 2-3 minutes. The baking soda and salt will lift the tarnish off of your jewelry and will transfer it to the aluminum foil. Don't submerge any jewelry that has glass stones or fake jewels since the solution could cause them to come loose. Scrub the jewelry with a soft toothbrush. Take your jewelry out of the cleaning solution and brush it lightly with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Focus on scrubbing any intricate designs or detailed areas that are hard to reach. Work in small circular motions to remove any tarnish and discoloration that's still on your jewelry. Make sure the toothbrush you use is only for cleaning purposes. Wet your toothbrush occasionally with the baking soda-salt solution to get the best clean. Rinse the jewelry and dry it with a soft towel. Once the jewelry is clean, dip it clean water to rinse off any remaining solution. Use a soft microfiber towel to dry the jewelry so it doesn't start to rust or discolor again. Leave the jewelry on the towel until it's completely dry. You may use a hair dryer on the cool setting to speed up the drying process. Make sure the jewelry is completely dry or else it could start to rust. | Scrub the jewelry with baby shampoo and water for a gentle clean. Brush the jewelry with lemon juice to break down the tarnish. Rub toothpaste onto the jewelry to make it shine again. Put the jewelry in ketchup for 10 minutes to remove any tarnish. Wipe the jewelry with soapy water if it has fake gemstones. Use metal polish to bring your jewelry back to its original shininess. Line a glass bowl with aluminum foil. Mix a solution of warm water, baking soda, and table salt. Submerge your jewelry in the water for 10 minutes. Scrub the jewelry with a soft toothbrush. Rinse the jewelry and dry it with a soft towel. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Peer-to-Peer-Lending-Business | How to Start a Peer to Peer Lending Business | In order to start a peer-to-peer lending business, you'll need to launch a website that allows lenders and borrowers to connect with each other. You'll also need to find a bank to service your peer-to-peer loans. Finally, you'll need to keep track of your customers, so invest in a good lending software to automate applications for borrowers and protections for lenders. | Decide whether to incorporate your business. Incorporation will protect you and your initial startup team from personal liability. Organizing your business either as a corporation or as an LLC can shield your personal assets from creditors. Which entity you choose depends to a large extent on the size of your startup team and the level of formality you want. Corporations typically have significantly more formal requirements than LLCs, including record keeping and reporting requirements. You also must have a specific number of shareholder meetings each year, whereas these requirements typically don't exist with LLCs. LLCs also have a different tax status than corporations, although an LLC can elect to be taxed as a corporation, so the entity you choose may have little effect on your taxes, but you must make sure you understand the tax method you want to use. Register your business name. You typically must register your name with the states in which you plan to do business. Keep in mind that although your business name may be the same as your domain name, these are not the same thing. You may want to use a broader name as your business name in anticipation of opening more websites under different domain names in the future. The rules governing registration of business names vary widely among states, so make sure you understand the registration and filing requirements for the state in which you plan to register your business. The state will have a directory of business names, and you must choose one that isn't already registered by someone else in that state. Depending on which entity you've chosen, your business name typically must identify that entity. For example, if you've chosen to register as a corporation, your name may be "P2P Lending, Inc." However, if you've organized as an LLC, you must use "P2P Lending, LLC" instead. You must file the paperwork required by your state, which typically includes your articles of organization and may include other formation documents, and pay registration fees. Register your domain. Choose a domain name that is easy for potential customers to remember. There are a number of domain registration services such as Go Daddy or Domain.com where you can not only register a domain but also add email and hosting services as needed. Choosing a unique domain name can preserve your ability to trademark the name or a logo at a later date, if you choose to do so. Build your team. In addition to people who know how to operate a website, you should also include team members who have knowledge of banking and financial regulations and know how to run a business. Your team should include at least one attorney who has experience navigating state and federal regulation of the lending sector. You also should look for someone who has extensive experience in the banking industry, and understands how to assess credit risk and build a lending business. Don't scrimp on software engineers and tech assistance. Although you may be able to outsource much of this need depending on the platform and hosting services you choose, you must have dedicated team members who can react quickly to resolve any problems that may arise. You also should consider bringing someone on your team who has education and experience in marketing and advertising. If you don't have someone in-house, you probably will have to start an account with a marketing firm, which could become more expensive in the long run. Someone with strong relationships in capital markets can be valuable in helping you raise the initial capital you'll need to get your p2p lending business off the ground. If you don't know or have any connections to venture capitalists and investors, you may have difficulty raising the funds necessary to enable your startup to continue operations through early growth periods before you're turning a profit. While you can have an outside attorney or firm on retainer, hiring someone as in-house counsel can be a tremendous asset and provide you with more flexibility and ensure that you stay in compliance with regulations that may evolve rapidly. Raise initial capital. In addition to running your website and other operating expenses, you'll need money to borrow to your first customers before p2p investors start putting up money. Even though you'll be in the business of lending money to other people (or connecting them with people willing to lend to them), it's important at this stage to understand your credit score and credit history, because that will determine how much initial capital you can raise and what investors are willing to work with you. How much money you'll need will depend on how many loans you need to finance on your own before your website takes off and you have private investors funding the requested loans. Keep in mind that this could take some time. You will need to use this money to establish a relationship with an originating bank, which will be the bank through which all of your p2p loans are serviced. Invest in p2p lending software. Although you could build your system architecture from scratch, it probably makes more sense to subscribe to an existing program. There are a number of web development companies that offer either raw codes and scripts that you can adapt to your system. Other companies have more plug-and-play type system solutions, providing you with an entire platform that you simply customize with names and titles to suit your needs. If you're low on funds, you might check out Zidisha, a p2p lending company that offers micro loans to entrepreneurs in developing countries. The organization has released the source code of their entire platform under an open-source license for anyone to use. These software solutions automate many of the processes you'll need, including the application and screening processes for borrowers and security and protections for lenders. Design your website. Your final product should be intuitive, easy to understand, and easy to navigate for both lenders and borrowers. Some of the p2p lending platforms include basic web design, but you'll want to adapt and customize this to make your site stand out in the field. Make sure all the basic functions someone would need to do are clear and available. For example, if someone comes to your site and wants to apply for a loan, you don't want him or her to have to hunt around for the application form. Similarly, if someone wants to invest and become a lender, you want that to be easy to do. When you develop your website, focusing on the customer experience is vital. If people visiting your site can't figure out how to do what they want to do, and can't get help when they need it, they will go somewhere else. Hire an attorney. If you haven't already, hiring an attorney is imperative if you want to avoid running afoul of the many complex securities and banking regulations that affect p2p lending. There are many businesses you can start without necessarily needing an attorney, but a p2p lending business is not one of them. If you intend to enter this sector, you should have legal counsel in place before you sign the first loan agreement. Keep in mind that both the consumer credit side and the funding side of your business are subject to extensive regulation, and many of these areas of law are in flux as the legislative process plays catch-up with the rapid development of the p2p lending sector. Work with financial and banking professionals. Finance and consumer credit professionals can help you ensure all your policies and procedures stay up-to-date and in compliance. If you haven't already, make sure your startup team includes someone with extensive education and experience in the banking sector. Ideally, you want to add someone to your team that has years of senior or upper-level management experience in a financial institution. Keep in mind this person won't come cheap. Experienced finance investors can put systems in place to effectively score your borrowers and lower the inherent risks involved with p2p lending. Keep in mind that many federal laws, including the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and the Bank Secrecy Act, will likely apply to your p2p lending business. Someone with experience in the banking and finance industry will already know what to do to keep the company from violating these laws. Establish anti-discrimination policies. Federal consumer credit laws forbid the use of certain discriminatory practices in lending. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act establishes guidelines you must follow when you gather and evaluate your borrowers' credit information, as well as the content of the written notification you must provide if you deny credit. Keep in mind that most of the borrowers you attract will come with a significant amount of risk. Typically people attracted to p2p lending are people who have been turned away by traditional lending institutions. For this reason, it's imperative that you develop an adequate process to screen and qualify borrowers. However, your screening process cannot disqualify or penalize people for unlawful reasons such as race, sex, religion, or marital status. Draft a comprehensive loan agreement. Your loan agreement generally must comply with the federal Truth in Lending Act, which establishes uniform methods for disclosing credit terms. All terms should be laid out in writing explicitly, in words that your customers will understand. Although you can use the terms and conditions from traditional bank loans as samples to guide you, make your loan agreement your own and tailor the terms to suit the product you're offering. Using traditional bank terms as a guide also can help ensure that you're meeting the requirements of federal law by including certain conditional language and types of disclosures. Keep in mind that just like traditional banks, you can make money off of more than just interest. Your loan agreement should include fees or penalties for late payments or insufficient funds. You can look at traditional bank loan terms to get an idea of where you can charge those fees, but you probably want to keep your fees lower than traditional banks. Evaluate state and local regulations. Apart from federal regulations, your state may have additional registration and filing requirements for p2p lending institutions. Keep in mind that you must make sure you have the appropriate licensing in every state in which you anticipate brokering, making, or servicing loans. If you have a website, this potentially means having licensing in place in all 50 states. State licensing requirements typically include certain bookkeeping and reporting requirements, minimum net worth, and the posting of a surety bond. Since each state's requirements will differ depending on the size of the loan being made, the length of the loan, and the interest rates and fees, you might consider reviewing these regulations to determine which states it makes the most sense to exclude. If a handful of states have licensing requirements far out of step with the majority, for example, you can choose not to service those states. Make sure you clearly display at appropriate places on your website the states in which your services are not available. Using an established bank can be efficient in getting you around all these individual state licensing requirements. Consider partnering with a bank. Partnering with an established bank may allow you to offer a broader variety of loan and investment products. Partnering with an existing traditional bank also solves many of the regulation problems involved with your loan products, since the bank will already have compliance procedures in place. Additionally, given that you are a newcomer to the scene with no operating history, potential lenders may feel more comfortable investing their money if you are backed by a bank with an established track record of profitability. Keep in mind that typically you will need an originating bank to initiate loans and issue notes to your private investors who have agreed to fund the loan. However, you may wish to partner with other banks to gain other services or offer additional products to your customers. Develop a unique angle. Because there are so many p2p lending companies out there, you must find a way in which what you have to offer is different from all the others if you want to stand out. For example, you might choose to focus your business on just one type of lending, such as loans for people who want to pay off or pay down their student loans. Many of the most established p2p lending companies started with personal loans and are starting to move towards small business loans, so you may want to create a niche there. For example, you might decide to focus primarily on small business loans for people who want to open restaurants. Keep in mind that with more and more players entering this sector, the market is extremely competitive. To build a successful p2p lending business, you must set your service apart from the crowd. Focus your marketing efforts on what it is about your business that makes you unique. Create informational documents. Corporate and financial projections can be used to educate potential lenders and borrowers alike about the value of your service. You potentially will need to file certain documents with the SEC, including a yearly prospectus, sales reports, and other filings. Providing open access to these documents on your website will attract prospective investors who want more information about your company's financial structure and health. Other business planning documents can help legitimize your p2p lending business in the eyes of the public and make potential investors more comfortable working with you. Seek out press coverage. Press attention can be an efficient and cost-effective way to draw attention to your business. Press attention (along with word-of-mouth) may be the best way to attract investors willing to lend money through your business. Because p2p lending already carries inherent risks, investors will be more likely to use your service if an established authority speaks highly of it. You might consider starting with popular and respected financial or business websites. Bloggers for these websites are under a lot of pressure to produce content, and often are looking for up-and-coming businesses to write about. Advertise to borrowers. If you advertise to borrowers first, lender-investors looking to expand and diversify their portfolios will naturally follow. Most of the existing p2p lending businesses have had less difficulty attracting investors than attracting qualified borrowers, leading to greater available investor money than there is borrower demand. Having a unique angle allows you to focus your advertising on the particular borrowers you're seeking to attract, which can save you money relative to broad campaigns aimed at all consumers looking for personal loans. Maintaining an active presence in social media can help you build your business using word of mouth. | Decide whether to incorporate your business. Register your business name. Register your domain. Build your team. Raise initial capital. Invest in p2p lending software. Design your website. Hire an attorney. Work with financial and banking professionals. Establish anti-discrimination policies. Draft a comprehensive loan agreement. Evaluate state and local regulations. Consider partnering with a bank. Develop a unique angle. Create informational documents. Seek out press coverage. Advertise to borrowers. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Feed-a-Baby-Turtle | How to Feed a Baby Turtle | To feed a baby turtle, start by figuring out what kind of turtle you have since different varieties of turtles prefer different foods. If your turtle is an herbivore, provide it with a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as aquatic plants like duckweed and water lettuce. Alternatively, if your turtle is carnivorous, give it mealworms, earthworms, minnows, and slugs.Then, supplement your turtle's diet with high-quality turtle pellets made for your specific type of turtle. Additionally, make sure to feed your baby turtle daily to help it get all the nutrients it needs. | Know the eating habits of your turtle. Depending on the type of turtle, its eating habits will vary. Turtles are generally omnivorous, meaning their diet consists of both plants and animals, but some turtles' eating habits change over time. Many types of turtles change their diet as they grow. A variety of breeds, such as red-eared sliders and green sea turtles, start off as mostly carnivores and transition to more plant-based diets as they mature. Other types of turtles remain strictly carnivores or strictly omnivores their whole life. Snapping turtles, for example, will always need a primarily carnivorous diet while loggerhead turtles will always need a combination of meat and plants. Figure out what kind of turtle you have. This may be quite obvious if, for example, you hatched the turtles yourself. If you bought it at a pet store, however, the species might not have been specified. Take your baby turtle to a vet with experience handling turtles to help with the identification process. Administer the food properly. A high-quality turtle pebble can be the base of a healthy diet. But other foods might also be options, depending on your turtle's specific needs. If so, be sure to expose your turtle to these other food sources. A diverse diet is important for turtles and their varied nutritional needs. Purina produces a type of turtle pellet through their Mazuri branch with different lines for specific types of turtle and their unique dietary needs. Rep-Cal also provides a range of pellet types catering to carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores. Other pellet brands include ReptoMin, ZooMed, Pretty Pets, and Wardley's Reptile Pellets. You can find pellets at pet stores or order them online. If your turtle is a herbivore or omnivore, you should provide a variety of fruits and veggies in addition to pellets. Lettuce, kale, carrots, melon, and strawberries are all turtle friendly foods. Consider aquatic plants that would be part of a turtle's regular diet, including duckweed, water lettuce, and water hyacinth. If your turtle needs a meat-based diet, you can feed it mealworms, earthworms, crayfish, minnows, snails, slugs, and wax worms. These can be purchased at pet shops that sell turtles and other reptiles. Do not try to find worms yourself or go to a tackle shop for supplies. You want to verify that the worms are safe for turtle consumption. Create a food-friendly environment. Turtles need to feel comfortable to eat. In order to make sure your turtle will eat in its tank, create a food-friendly environment. To keep a clean home for your turtle you will typically want to feed it in a separate cage. This is not as imperative for baby turtles. Although it is not ideal, you might want to consider feeding a baby turtle in its regular cage if it will not eat otherwise. In that case, however, you will need to clean its tank more frequently. Much like type of food, how you set food up in a cage is breed specific. Research how your turtle eats in their natural habitat and try to mimic this in the cage. For example, if your turtle is a carnivore it might prefer to catch prey itself, so releasing minnows in a small pool of water might be ideal. Is your turtle a freshwater turtle or a land turtle? Freshwater turtles prefer to be submerged in water when they eat, so have a small pool of water in the tank where you feed it. The depth of water should be very shallow for baby turtles to prevent drowning. Keep the depth under two inches. If you are feeding your turtle insects, place the insects on land. If the insects make it into the water, they can increase the level of ammonia in the water. This would be bad for your turtle's skin and shell. Fresh foods will spoil. Place all fresh food in a separate dish, so that it will not contaminate other food items. After fresh food has been out for several hours, throw it away. Decide how much to feed your turtle. How much and how often to feed baby turtles is contested by turtle owners and experts. However, it is generally recommended that baby turtles be fed often -- typically once a day -- because they are growing and need the extra vitamins and minerals. Baby turtles should be fed every day. Afternoons and mornings are ideal feeding times; they are typically most active then and will be more likely to eat the food provided. While people generally agree that babies should be fed each day, how much food they need is debated. Some people advise feeding babies as much as they will eat while others recommend limiting feeding times to a 15 to 20 minute time period. Talk to your vet about your turtle and ask her for advice on feeding. Give the turtle food. Refrain from feeding your turtle by hand. If you do, it will associate food with your hands and might become inclined to bite. When dealing with baby turtles, special considerations need to be taken in terms of preparing food. Turtle pellets should be broken into fourths as a baby turtle's mouth is smaller and you don't want it to choke. Any fruits bigger than a blueberry should be mashed or cut up to prevent choking. Vitamin and calcium supplements are sometimes recommended for young turtles to make sure they're getting adequate nutrition. If you opt to give your turtle supplements, you should do so about three times a week. Deal with eating problems. Baby turtles are sometimes hesitant to eat, especially when first introduced to a tank. This is normal, but should be rectified. There are several approaches to deal with this sort of situation. Check the water temperature. Turtles will sometimes refrain from eating if the water is too cold or warm. Correct water temperature depends on breed, but generally it is approximately 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Sometimes, movement can encourage eating. If your baby turtles are disinterested in pellets, live crickets or mealworms might stimulate their appetite. If the problem persists for more than a few days, seek veterinary care to rule out any health problems. Transition to new food types and portions. Turtles can have a lengthy lifespan, meaning they are long-term pets. You need to be prepared to care for your turtle well past babyhood. Remember, food types and amounts change with age. Turtles are not considered adults until they are at least 7 years old. However, after three years their appetite should taper off naturally. When you notice your turtle eating less, it may be a sign that it is ready to transition to a new diet. Talk to your vet first, however, when you begin changing feeding frequency. You want to rule out any health problems and also get professional advice about food types and portions. Adult turtles only need to be fed every other day, and some breeds only need food every third day. Adult turtles may have different dietary needs depending on breed. Determine whether you need to transition to a meat or plant based diet as your turtle ages. Monitor your turtle's health. Changes in eating habits can signify health problems. If your turtle stops eating, keep an eye out for other common turtle problems. Watch for shell problems. A turtle's shell is an indicator of health and wellness. Changes to the shell can indicate poor nutrition, especially, though not exclusively, too little calcium in its diet. If you notice deformities, such as cone-shaped lumps or a flaky, rotting shell your turtle might not be getting the appropriate nutrition. Talk to your vet immediately. Be on the watch for parasites. While rare, turtle food and pellets can be contaminated with certain parasites. Change in a turtle's appetite, energy, and weight might indicate a parasite. Respiratory infections can be caused by a vitamin A deficiency. A runny nose or drooping eyelids can indicate a deficiency. Serious infections are marked by mouth-breathing, mucus in the mouth, or wheezing. Make food decisions for long-term health. Your turtle could live for a very long time if cared for properly. Begin considering long-term health at an early age. Many health issues can be caused by an improper diet, so you should make decisions about feeding your turtle with an eye on its long-term well-being. Buy pellets from reputable companies and avoid off-brand, cheap pellets. Look into pellet reviews online and discuss with your vet to keep up-to-date on any recalls on turtle food. Make sure any produce you feed your turtle is fresh. Also, wash it before feeding your turtle. Remember, any pesticides or bacteria harmful to humans can also be harmful to your turtle. Prepare any produce that you feed your turtle as you would prepare it for yourself. Look into supplements. Because vitamin deficiencies are responsible for many turtle health problems, talk to your veterinarian about health supplements to ensure that your turtle is getting the nutrients it needs. Calcium is a particularly important nutrient for turtles. Calcium supplements for turtles can be purchased at a pet store. Dust calcium over the food up two or three times per week. | Know the eating habits of your turtle. Administer the food properly. Create a food-friendly environment. Decide how much to feed your turtle. Give the turtle food. Deal with eating problems. Transition to new food types and portions. Monitor your turtle's health. Make food decisions for long-term health. Look into supplements. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Join-the-P.E.O.-Sisterhood | How to Join the P.E.O. Sisterhood | To join the P.E.O. Sisterhood, you must be a P.E.O project applicant or recipient, the mother or grandmother of a P.E.O. project applicant or recipient, or a Cottey College alumnae. If you meet these requirements, fill out an interest form on the P.E.O. website to get connected with members of your local P.E.O. chapter. Then, complete pre-acceptance counseling and get sponsored by 3 members of your local P.E.O. chapter to receive an invitation to join the Sisterhood. | Check to see if you meet the requirements for membership. Women over the age of 18 are eligible to be considered for P.E.O. membership. P.E.O. does not discriminate against any woman based on age, ethnicity, religion or education. Contact a P.E.O. member in your community to talk about membership. If you do not know someone, contact the P.E.O. Executive Office. To learn more, go to https://www.peointernational.org/peo-membership. Meet with members of a chapter in your area. This gives you an opportunity to learn more about the organization and gives local chapters an opportunity to explain the commitment and benefits of membership. Once an invitation has been extended, members of the chapter will meet with you to talk more about membership and P.E.O. 's philanthropic purpose. Accept the invitation to membership. A written acceptance to the local chapter must include an affirmation of your belief in God. You will be initiated by the local chapter and officially be a member of P.E.O. | Check to see if you meet the requirements for membership. Contact a P.E.O. Meet with members of a chapter in your area. Once an invitation has been extended, members of the chapter will meet with you to talk more about membership and P.E.O. Accept the invitation to membership. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-Dog-Toys | How to Buy Dog Toys | When buying dog toys, check if the product has any removable parts, like string, ribbons, and rubber bands, which could pose a choking hazard. You should also check the label for any toxic materials such as lead, chromium, and formaldehyde, to make sure it's safe for your dog. Don't buy anything small enough that your dog can swallow it to avoid choking. If you want to give it a soft toy, bear in mind that some fillings, like nutshells and polystyrene beads, are particularly dangerous to your dog's digestive system if swallowed. Also, look for toys made from durable materials, such as hard nylon or rubber, which will last for much longer. | Examine the toys for dangerous components. Not all toys are safe for your dog. Toys with removable parts (e.g., string, ribbons, rubber bands), can pose health hazards—these small parts could cause your dog to choke or develop an intestinal obstruction if he swallows them. Both of these scenarios would require veterinary care. Plastic eyes on a stuffed animal can also be hazardous. Your dog may like toys with squeakers or bells because of the sound they make. However, these internal components could be harmful if swallowed. Closely supervise your dog if he plays with these types of toys to ensure he does not swallow the noise-making components. Read the toy label. Although a dog toy make look harmless, it may contain material that could be toxic to your dog. For example, some dog toys may be coated with toxic heavy metals (e.g., cadmium, lead, chromium). Other toys may be coated with fire retardants or stain guards that contain such toxic ingredients as formaldehyde. Be mindful that the product packaging may not contain information about what the toy is made of. Often, the information is more for advertising, and could thus leave out important wording about the toy's safety. Consider visiting the toy manufacturer's website to learn more about how they make their dog toys. If the label does not provide much information, you can smell the toy—a strong scent may be indicative of residual chemicals from the manufacturing process. In addition, bright-dyed fabrics could contain toxic materials. In toys containing lead, the lead can come off in your dog's mouth when the toy is partially chewed on and becomes wet with his saliva. Purchase toys that are large enough for your dog. This is especially important for larger dogs. Toys that are too small can be easily swallowed, and thus become a choking or obstruction hazard. Ideally, your dog should not be able to fit the entire toy in his mouth. Use caution when buying stuffed toys. Dogs love stuffed toys. However, the filling in a stuffed toy can be harmful to your dog's digestive system if he swallows it. Particularly dangerous fillings include nutshells and polystyrene beads. Stuffed dog toys labeled as safe for children under three years of age are not likely to have dangerous fillings. Monitor your dog closely if he plays with stuffed toys. Replace the toys when you notice a torn seam or other damage that would provide easy access to the filling. Select a safe version of rawhide bones. Dogs enjoy chewing on rawhide bones. Not only would a rawhide bone keep your dog busy, but it would also strengthen his jaw bones and help maintain his dental hygiene. However, rawhide bones, especially those made of one large sheet of rawhide that is rolled and knotted on each end, can be choking hazards. Look for pressed rawhide bones. When chewed on and softened, pressed rawhide bones will break into small pieces that will be safe and easy for your dog to swallow. Select indestructible toys. Dogs tend to see toys as wolves see prey, and thus like toys that taste like food, make a noise, and/or can be torn apart. Therefore, it is important to choose very durable toys. Indestructible toys are commonly made of hard nylon or hard rubber. Kong toys are very durable. Over time, even the indestructible toys can develop sharp or rough edges that could injure your dog. Replace the toys when you see these signs of wear and tear. Rope toys containing hard nylon or rubber are durable, but can unravel over time. Replace the rope if it is no longer intact. Purchase toys that will keep your dog busy. Whether large or small, young or old, your dog will need toys that will distract him for extended periods of time. Food cubes can keep your dog easily entertained. Small bits of food easily fit in the cube, but do not easily fall back out—there is a maze inside the cube, so your dog will have to roll it around to get the food out. Treat balls are similar to food cubes, but the food comes out more easily. Treats balls would be good for your dog if he likes quick rewards without doing much work. Kong toys are another type of 'entertainment' toy. Not only can you hide treats inside of it, but you can also use it as a fetching toy. Buy chew toys for your dog. Your dog will probably always want something to chew on. Technically, though, your dog is not chewing the toy—rather, he is trying to tear and shear the toy with his premolars and molars ('grinder teeth'), as if the toy was prey. Durable toys made of hard nylon or hard rubber make great chew toys, since your dog will not easily be able to tear them apart. Your dog's premolars and molars are in the back of his mouth. He may end up swallowing a small chew toy in his efforts to tear it apart, which could pose a choke hazard. Make sure the chew toy is large enough that he cannot fit all of it in the back of his mouth. Dental chew toys will help keep your dog's teeth clean. Choose name-brand dental chew toys that are made of soft material and will soften and dissolve when in contact with your dog's saliva. Choose interactive dog toys. As much as your dog loves to play with his toys, remember that toys are not are not substitutes for human interaction. In fact, your dog will probably be more interested in his toys if you play with him. Examples of interactive toys include rope toys and balls. Even if a toy does not seem particularly interactive, you can hide it and encourage your dog to find it. Playing 'hide and seek' with your dog is a great way to interact with him. Rope toys are not good interactive toys for aggressive dogs. These toys can encourage rough and aggressive play. Pick toys based on your dog’s life stage. Your dog's toy needs and preferences will change as he progresses through the different life stages (puppy, adult, senior). For example, a teething puppy would need a durable chew toy, but an older dog may do fine with a soft toy that he could mouth on without using his teeth. A puppy or young adult dog that's full of energy would need toys that would keep him active (e.g., rope toy), but an older dog may prefer toys that he can easily play with when lying in one place. Dogs tend to play less as they age. | Examine the toys for dangerous components. Read the toy label. Purchase toys that are large enough for your dog. Use caution when buying stuffed toys. Select a safe version of rawhide bones. Select indestructible toys. Purchase toys that will keep your dog busy. Buy chew toys for your dog. Choose interactive dog toys. Pick toys based on your dog’s life stage. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Administer-General-Anesthesia | How to Administer General Anesthesia | To administer general anesthesia, first confirm with the patient that they have abstained from food and fluid as instructed, since any food can increase the chance of aspiration during surgery. Then, insert an IV line into the patient's arm, through which the anesthetic will be delivered. Depending on the patient and the surgery, you may also administer gas through a face mask. Once the patient is under anesthetic, you should also insert an endotracheal tube or apply a laryngeal mask to secure the patient's airway. Additionally, you should monitor the patient's vitals, including heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation levels. | Review the patient’s medical record. Before administering anesthesia, the anesthesiologist will review the patient's medical record. This review process helps to ensure that the medications the patient receives is the safest and most effective for each for. The anesthesiologist will look at a patient's: Age Weight Medical history Current medications including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements Prior anesthetic records, if available Recent medical studies or specialist visits relevant to the type of anesthetic planned (for example, recent cardiology notes, echo reports) Other relevant medical history and details relevant to the type of anesthesia planned Allergies to medications and to food products Ask the patient about medications. Next, the anesthesiologist will speak with the patient. The anesthesiologist will let the patient know what to expect and about the potential side effects of these medications. It is important for the anesthesiologist to know about any past reactions to anesthetics. If a patient has had a bad reaction to any anesthetic agents in the past or if the patient has a significant family history of problems with anesthesia, the anesthesiologist may choose to use different medications. Interview the patient about alcohol, cigarette, and recreational drug use. The anesthesiologist will ask the patient about the patient's current use of alcohol, cigarettes, and recreational drugs. All of these substances have the potential to affect the way that a patient responds to anesthesia, so it is crucial for the anesthesiologist to learn this information. Cigarettes affect the heart and lungs, which can affect the type of anesthesia chosen and recovery process. Chronic obstructive lung disease can significantly impact a patient's ability to recover from intubation. It is recommended to quit smoking at least eight weeks prior to any anesthetic to improve outcomes from anesthesia and to decrease the risk of surgical infection. Alcohol affects the liver, heart, lungs, and blood, which are important in the administration of anesthesia. Chronic liver disease can significantly impact the choice and outcomes of anesthesia. Current or past use of recreational drugs, such as cocaine, marijuana, or amphetamines, is important information for an anesthesiologist to learn. If cocaine or amphetamines are present in the bloodstream, they can lead to dangerous changes in blood pressure and even death under general anesthesia. Remember that all conversations between patient and doctor or anesthesiologist are confidential. Not sharing this information it could increase the possibility of negative side effects from the surgery, including death — make sure the patient knows how essential it is that he be honest with you. Confirm that the patient has abstained from food and fluid as instructed. Doctors instruct patients to abstain from food and fluid for a specific amount of time before surgery. However, the anesthesiologist will often confirm this information. Any food in the stomach during surgery increases the risk of aspiration during surgery. This is the medical term for when food and gastric contents rise up into the esophagus and enters the lungs during surgery. Even candy or chewing gum without swallowing can increase a patient's risk of aspiration Because general anesthesia also puts to sleep the musculature in your body you won't have a gag reflex and will not be able to cough to protect your lungs. Do NOT eat or drink anything during the time period your surgeon gives you prior to surgery. Aspiration can lead to prolonged intubation and ICU stays, and sometimes even death. Place an IV. Prior to being taken to the surgical suite a nurse or anesthesiologist will put an intravenous line (IV) into the patient's arm. The intravenous (IV) line in the patient's arm will be used during surgery. In many cases a second IV is inserted in the other arm after the patient is under anesthesia. The patient may receive a sedative in the preoperative area before moving to surgery. The sedative will help the patient to relax. An anesthetist may have to use more medication to achieve general anesthesia if a patient is highly anxious. Prior to surgery, the patient will go to sleep by receiving general anesthetics through the IV and sometimes through a face mask as well. Delivering the anesthesia through the mask alone is also an option that may be used in some cases. For example, if the patient is a child who is afraid of needles, then a mask may be used to administer medications. This option, called “mask induction,” is not often used in adults or larger children, because it can be less effective and risky to induce general anesthesia without first securing an IV. Intubate the patient. Because many anesthetic medications will prevent patients from breathing adequately on their own, the anesthesiologist will want to secure the patient's airway, usually with either a laryngeal mask airway or an endotracheal tube. Placement of an endotracheal tube is called intubation. In this procedure, the anesthesiologist will place a tube into the patient's trachea in order to protect the lungs and help the patient breathe during surgery. This tube will be hooked up to a machine that will help the patient breathe during the procedure. The endotracheal tube used in intubation is a flexible plastic tube that goes through the patient's mouth with the help of an instrument called a laryngoscope. This instrument helps the anesthesiologist lift up the tongue and pharynx, or tissues of the mouth, in order to see well enough to pass the tube into the patient's lungs. Because intubation usually happens when the patient is asleep, patients may occasionally have a cut lip or chipped tooth if placement of the endotracheal tube was difficult. It is important for patients to notify their anesthesiologist if they have loose teeth, which can increase this risk. After surgery, some patients will have a sore throat from the endotracheal tube. This can last one to two days and is a normal side effect of intubation Be aware of the potential complications from intubation. Complications from placing the tube down the esophagus toward the stomach instead of the lungs will result in inadequate oxygenation, brain damage and possibly death. For this reason a qualified and experienced physician places the endotracheal tube and checks placement before the start of surgery. Other complications from endotracheal intubation include: Knocking out a tooth during insertion of the tube, or intubation Damage to the lips, teeth or tongue Low blood pressure from the anesthetic medications Lung infection, such as pneumonia, more so with prolonged intubation Take extra precautions if the patient is at risk for complications from intubation. Some patients are at a higher risk of complications from intubation, which is why it is so important to review the patient's medical history and perform a physical exam. Patients that are at high risk for a difficult intubation may require an awake intubation, which can be performed with numbing medicine and sedation. This is done to ensure the patient's safety, and after the endotracheal tube is in place, the anesthesiologist will then provide anesthesia medications.Factors that increase the risk of difficult intubation include: Neck or cervical spine injury that limits flexion or extension of the neck Thick neck circumference Small mouth opening Small chin or inability to move the jaw forward Previous head or neck radiation or surgery Recent meal Monitor the patient’s vitals. Once the patient is under anesthesia from IV or inhaled induction, with a secure airway and appropriate ventilation, the anesthesiologist will monitor the patient's vital signs and treat the patient with a variety of medications and fluids to keep her stable throughout surgery. The anesthesiologist will communicate with the surgeon throughout the procedure to ensure the patient's safety. The vital signs that the anesthesiologist will monitor include: Oxygen saturation levels Heart rate and rhythm Blood pressure Respiratory rate Body temperature Blood loss Urine output, depending on the type of surgery Central venous pressure, depending on the type of surgery Cardiac output and other invasive cardiac monitoring, depending on the patient or type of surgery Keep the patient under anesthesia until the procedure is over. The patient will continue to receive medication to stay sedated until the surgeon has completed his or her procedure. After the procedure is complete, the anesthesiologist will reduce the use of the medication. Before removing the endotracheal tube the anesthesiologist will ensure that the patient: Is breathing adequately without assistance Has stable vital signs Has had appropriate medications and reversal agents, if necessary Can follow basic commands and demonstrate good muscle strength, usually by lifting his or her head or squeezing somebody's hands Take the patient to the recovery room. After the endotracheal tube has been removed and the patient has been woken up completely, the patient will be taken to the recovery room. In the recovery room, expert nurses will monitor the patient's vital signs (oxygen saturation, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and temperature) to ensure that everything is normal. The nurse will also monitor for and treat common side effects of anesthesia and surgery, including pain and nausea. Watch for common side effects. Like any other medical procedure, there can be side effects from general anesthesia. Most of these side effects will go away soon after surgery, but if any of these side effects are severe or persistent, seek medical attention right away. Common side effects of general anesthesia include: Nausea Vomiting Sore throat Confusion Muscle aches Chills/shivering Itching Seek immediate medical treatment for more serious side effects. Some patients may also experience more serious side effects from general anesthesia that require medical care from a doctor. Serious side effects that require medical attention include: Difficulty breathing Signs of infection, such as fever or chills Chest pain or pressure Heart palpitations New weakness Arm or leg swelling and/or fatigue, which can be signs of heart failure Be aware of the potential for serious complications. After surgery, you may be at higher risk for developing other more serious complications. Notify a doctor right away if the patient suffers from any complications. Some complications to watch out for include: Postoperative delirium. This complication causes confusion and memory loss which can last longer than a few hours. Some patients are at a higher risk, such as people who are transferred to intensive care after surgery, as well as those with heart disease, lung disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or who have had a stroke. Learn about local anesthesia. Unlike general anesthesia, local anesthesia will only numb a small part of the body. This type of anesthesia is used only for minor procedures. The patient may be awake during the procedure. Find out about regional anesthesia. Regional anesthesia will block the perception of pain from a larger portion of the patient's body. In this case the patient may also receive a sedative. Regional anesthesia can be provided as an alternative to general anesthesia, or sometimes in combination with general anesthesia. There are two types of regional anesthesia. Peripheral nerve block. In this procedure, anesthetic is injected adjacent to a specific group of nerves. Epidural or spinal anesthesia. In this procedure, local anesthesia is injected near the spinal cord, which blocks pain from the nerves in the spine. This will block pain in a region of the body such as the chest wall, hips, legs or belly. Ask about conscious sedation. Conscious sedation is a type of anesthesia involving sedation without being entirely "asleep" or unconscious. This option allows a patient to be somewhat sedated and comfortable while undergoing surgery. Most of the time a nurse, doctor or dentist will administer the sedation using a medication that wears off quickly. The medication is given through an IV and requires monitoring every three to five minutes. The patient will likely get oxygen through a mask during the procedure. Patients often fall asleep but will wake easily and respond to people in the room upon waking. Some medications used also induce amnesia so the patient may not remember much about the procedure. The patient may hear voices and drift in and out of sleep, all of which would be normal for conscious sedation. Awareness during conscious sedation does not mean the patient “woke up” during surgery and it is an expected part of this mild type of sedation. | Review the patient’s medical record. Ask the patient about medications. Interview the patient about alcohol, cigarette, and recreational drug use. Confirm that the patient has abstained from food and fluid as instructed. Place an IV. Intubate the patient. Be aware of the potential complications from intubation. Take extra precautions if the patient is at risk for complications from intubation. Monitor the patient’s vitals. Keep the patient under anesthesia until the procedure is over. Take the patient to the recovery room. Watch for common side effects. Seek immediate medical treatment for more serious side effects. Be aware of the potential for serious complications. Learn about local anesthesia. Find out about regional anesthesia. Ask about conscious sedation. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Crochet-a-Blanket-Stitch | How to Crochet a Blanket Stitch | To crochet a blanket stitch, start by chaining a multiple of 3 plus 4 stitches for your foundation row. Next, double crochet the fourth stitch from your hook, skip 2 stitches, and single crochet. Skip another 2 stitches, then single crochet and double crochet into the same stitch. Repeat this pattern until the end of the row and single crochet into the last stitch. To start the next row, chain 3, double crochet into the first stitch, skip 2 and single crochet, double crochet twice into the same stitch, and repeat to the end. | Chain a multiple of 3 plus 4. To begin the blanket stitch, you will need to make a chain of 4 stitches plus an additional 4 stitches. The additional 4 stitches will provide some slack for working the first double crochet stitch. Make your chain as long as you think it will need to be for your project. For example, if you are making a blanket, then you will probably need to chain at least 90 stitches, plus 4, for a total of 94. Or, if you are making a washcloth, then you can probably just chain 18 stitches, plus 4 for a total of 22. Double crochet into the fourth chain from the hook. After you have made your chain as long as desired, you will need to double crochet. Double crochet into the fourth chain stitch from the hook, not counting the chain on the hook. To double crochet , yarn over your hook and insert your hook into the fourth chain from the hook. Then, yarn over again and pull through the first loop. Next, yarn over again and pull through two loops. To finish your first double crochet stitch, yarn over again and pull through both stitches on the hook. Skip two and single crochet. After you complete the double crochet stitch, skip two stitches. Single crochet into the third stitch over from the double crochet stitch. To single crochet , insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over, pull through, yarn over again, and then pull through both loops. Double crochet twice into the same chain. After you crochet the single crochet stitch, you will need to double crochet twice into the same chain that you just worked into for the single crochet stitch. This means that the stitch will have a single crochet stitch and two double crochet stitches worked into it. Repeat the sequence. Next, skip two and single crochet again, and then double crochet into the same stitch again. This will be your stitch pattern all the way to the end of the row, except for your last stitch. Single crochet into last stitch in the row. When you are three stitches away from the last stitch in the row, skip to the last stitch and do one single crochet into this stitch. This will complete your first row. Chain 3 and turn. To begin your second row and every row thereafter, you will need to make a chain of 3. The chain will provide slack to make your first double crochet stitch. Chain 3 and then turn your work around. Double crochet into the first stitch. After making the chain of three and turning your work, double crochet into the first stitch in your row. Only make one double crochet stitch here. Skip two and single crochet. Next, skip two stitches and then single crochet into the third stitch over from the double crochet stitch. You will also be working into this space for your next two stitches. Double crochet twice into the same stitch. Do two double crochet stitches into the same stitch that you just worked a single crochet stitch into. This space will have a total of three stitches in it after the two double crochet stitches. Repeat to the end. When you finish the second double crochet stitch, skip two stitches again, and then single crochet once and double crochet twice into the same pace again. Continue to repeat this sequence until you are three stitches from the end of the row. Single crochet into the last stitch. To complete each of your rows, single crochet one time into the last stitch in the row. This will finish the row and then you can start a new row and keep going until your project is finished. | Chain a multiple of 3 plus 4. Double crochet into the fourth chain from the hook. Skip two and single crochet. Double crochet twice into the same chain. Repeat the sequence. Single crochet into last stitch in the row. Chain 3 and turn. Double crochet into the first stitch. Skip two and single crochet. Double crochet twice into the same stitch. Repeat to the end. Single crochet into the last stitch. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Candied-Walnuts | How to Make Candied Walnuts | To make candied walnuts, heat a medium-sized saucepan on a burner over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Once the pan has heated up, place 1 cup of shelled walnuts, ¼ cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter into the pan and stir the ingredients thoroughly. After the walnuts have cooked for 5 minutes, remove them from heat and scrape them onto a sheet of parchment paper. Be sure to separate the individual walnuts to ensure that they don't stick together. Allow the nuts to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving! | Heat a non-stick pan. On your stovetop, place a medium size non-stick skillet on the burner. Turn the heat to medium, and allow the pan to fully heat, which should take approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Add the walnuts, sugar, and butter, and cook. When the pan is heated, stir in 1 cup (108 g) of shelled walnuts, ¼ cup (50 g) of white sugar, and 1 tablespoon (14 g) of unsalted butter. Allow the mixture to cook for approximately 5 minutes on medium, stirring often to ensure that it cooks evenly. You want to cook the walnut mixture until the sugar melts and all of the nuts are coated with the syrup. It's especially important to stir the mixture near the end of the cooking time because that's when the nuts are most likely to burn. You can easily double the recipe if you want. Remove the nuts from the pan and separate. When all of the walnuts are coated in the sugar and butter syrup, take the pan off the burner. Transfer the nuts from the pan to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Make sure to separate all of the nuts as you lay them out because they will stick together in a clump if they're touching when they cool. Use two spatulas or wooden spoons to separate the nuts quickly so they don't have a chance to stick together. Allow the nuts to cool and serve. Once the walnuts are spread out in a single layer, let them cool for approximately 10 minutes or until the coating on the outside hardens. Place them in a bowl, and serve as a snack. If you don't plan to eat the candied walnuts right away, be sure to store them in an airtight container. Preheat the oven and grease a baking sheet. To ensure that the oven is hot enough when the walnuts are ready, set the temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (170 degrees Celsius) and allow it to fully preheat. Next, grease a large baking sheet with a nonstick cooking spray and set it aside. Make sure that you know how your oven indicates that it's reached the desired temperature. Many models flash an indicator light or beep to alert you. Mix the walnuts and other ingredients in a bowl. Add 1 cup (108 g) of shelled walnuts, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of light corn syrup, 1 tablespoon (12 g) of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon (3 g) of salt, ¼ teaspoon (½ g) of ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to a medium size bowl. Stir together to ensure that all of the nuts are fully coated. If you don't have light corn syrup on hand, you can substitute maple syrup. Spread the walnut mixture on the sheet and bake. Once the nuts are coated, transfer them to the greased baking sheet. Place the nuts in the oven, and allow them to bake until they are golden brown and the coating is bubbling, which should take approximately 15 minutes. The nuts may clump together, so use a spatula or wooden spoon to separate them when you place them on the baking sheet. Because the coating may spread as it heats, it's a good idea to check on the walnuts at regular intervals during baking. Separate any nuts that wind up clumped together. Cool the nuts and transfer to a storage container. When the walnuts are golden brown, remove the pan from the oven, and allow the nuts to cool completely on the sheet, which should take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Place in a bowl for serving, and transfer to an airtight container to store them. The candied walnuts can be made up to three days in advance. Heat the butter in a large pan. Add 2 tablespoons (28 g) of butter to a large skillet, and heat it on medium. Allow the butter to melt completely, which should take approximately 3 to 5 minutes. The butter will melt more quickly if you cut it into pieces before adding it to the pan. Mix in the walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and cook. When the butter is melted, stir 2 cups (216 g) of shelled walnuts, ½ cup (100 g) of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons (4 g) of ground cinnamon into the pan. Let the mixture heat on medium until the sugar dissolves, which should take approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Be sure to stir the mixture constantly as you're waiting for the sugar to melt so it doesn't burn and the nuts don't stick together. Remove the nuts from the pan and allow to cool. After the brown sugar has dissolved, remove the nuts from the skillet with a spatula or slotted spoon and set them on a silicone baking mat. Let them cool for an hour, so they're completely cooled and the coating has hardened. If you don't have a silicone baking mat, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Store the candied walnuts in an airtight container. They can last for up to two weeks. | Heat a non-stick pan. Add the walnuts, sugar, and butter, and cook. Remove the nuts from the pan and separate. Allow the nuts to cool and serve. Preheat the oven and grease a baking sheet. Mix the walnuts and other ingredients in a bowl. Spread the walnut mixture on the sheet and bake. Cool the nuts and transfer to a storage container. Heat the butter in a large pan. Mix in the walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and cook. Remove the nuts from the pan and allow to cool. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Diagnose-Behavioral-Dysfunction-in-Senior-Dogs | How to Diagnose Behavioral Dysfunction in Senior Dogs | To diagnose behavioral dysfunction in senior dogs, start by looking for signs like being more aloof, having bathroom accidents indoors, and wandering around aimlessly. You may also notice new fears in your dog, such as separation anxiety or a fear of loud noises. If you notice any unusual behaviors in your dog, have it examined by your vet to determine the underlying cause. Depending on the cause of your dog's dysfunction, your vet may refer you to an animal behaviorist, who can recommend the appropriate treatment plan. | Look for signs of cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive dysfunction is another term for dementia. It occurs in senior dogs when the brain undergoes changes that cause it not to work very well. Cognitive dysfunction causes behavioral changes that may be mild at first, but worsen over time. If you see signs of cognitive dysfunction, take your dog to your vet: Disorientation: wandering aimlessly, getting lost when indoors, getting stuck in corners Changes in social interaction: not seeking attention, not greeting people House soiling: having bathroom accidents indoors, even in front of people Altered sleep/wake cycle: waking up during the night, howling during the night Detect separation anxiety. Senior dogs can become anxious when left alone. If your senior dog has separation anxiety, it may whine and howl, become destructive, and urinate and defecate in the house. Some dogs can become very aggressive when their owners are about to leave the house. Other dogs may pant or even hide. You may be tempted to crate your dog to prevent destruction or house soiling. However, if your dog isn't used to being crated, this could create even more anxiety. Notice if your senior dog has developed new fears. Dogs can develop fears later in life because of cognitive dysfunction, as well as sensory losses (hearing, sight, touch). For example, your senior dog may become fearful of thunderstorms or become reluctant to step on different types of surfaces. It may also fear change to its environment (new pet, new family member). If you notice your dog is afraid of something that it wasn't afraid of before, write down what that fear is. Also, write down your dog's reaction to that fear (hiding, whining, wanting to be closer to you). Observe repetitive behaviors. Senior dogs can begin performing repetitive behaviors. For example, a senior dog may repetitively lick certain parts of its body, repeatedly chase its tail, or suck on its flank for long periods of time. Anxiety is a common cause of repetitive behaviors in dogs. Watch how your senior dog responds to you. Just like with people, dogs can lose their hearing with age. If your senior dog can't hear as well as it used to, it either won't respond to you at all, or take longer to do so. If you think your dog is losing its hearing, your vet can perform various tests to determine whether your dog has hearing loss. Schedule an appointment with your vet. Dealing with your dog's behavioral dysfunction can be frustrating. Before you lose your patience with your senior dog, take it to the vet. Behavioral dysfunction in senior dogs is usually due to some underlying cause, such as decreasing brain function or chronic disease. Examples of chronic diseases that can cause behavioral dysfunction are liver and kidney disease. Do not delay in taking your dog to your vet. The sooner your vet can diagnose the behavioral dysfunction, the sooner you dog can receive treatment for the problem. Provide a detailed history of the behavioral dysfunction. A history of your senior dog's behavioral dysfunction will help your vet diagnose the problem. During the appointment with your vet, tell them about any behavioral changes you've noticed in your dog. No matter how major or minor you think the problems are, it will be important for your vet to know what's changed about your dog's behavior. When you give your vet the history, include when the behavioral problems started and if they have gotten worse over time. Have your vet perform a physical exam. Because behavioral dysfunction can sometimes be caused by underlying diseases, your vet will need to determine whether your senior dog has other medical problems. To do this, they will first perform a physical exam. Your vet will examine the outside of your dog's body and listen to its heart and lungs. During the physical exam, your vet may also test your dog's hearing and vision. Not being able to hear or see very well could affect your dog's behavior. Allow your vet to take urine and blood samples. Urine and blood samples can indicate whether your dog has a medical problem. For example, kidney disease would cause abnormalities in the blood and urine. For liver disease, the blood sample would have abnormally high levels of certain liver enzymes. Let your vet perform a neurologic exam. A neurologic exam will allow your vet to see how your dog's brain is functioning. It will also help your vet rule out other medical causes of the behavioral problems. Your vet will evaluate different things during the exam exam: Gait and posture: observing of how your dog walks and positions its body Mental status: observing how your dog interacts with you and your vet during the exam (alertness vs disorientation) Cranial nerve function: testing the nerves in your dog's brain Postural reactions: determining whether your dog knows where its limbs are when not looking at them Spinal reflexes: testing the function of different nerves Discuss whether to see an animal behaviorist. If your senior dog's behavioral dysfunction is complex, your vet may refer you to an animal behaviorist for a more detailed behavioral examination. Based on the exam results, the behaviorist will recommend a treatment plan for your senior dog. The website http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/behavioral-help-your-pet can help you locate an animal behaviorist in your area. | Look for signs of cognitive dysfunction. Detect separation anxiety. Notice if your senior dog has developed new fears. Observe repetitive behaviors. Watch how your senior dog responds to you. Schedule an appointment with your vet. Provide a detailed history of the behavioral dysfunction. Have your vet perform a physical exam. Allow your vet to take urine and blood samples. Let your vet perform a neurologic exam. Discuss whether to see an animal behaviorist. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Moss-in-Your-Lawn | How to Get Rid of Moss in Your Lawn | To remove moss from your lawn, rake your lawn firmly or use a dethatching blade on your lawnmower if the lawn is too big to rake by hand. Alternatively, apply a glyphosate-based herbicide or an iron sulfate to your lawn to kill off the moss, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Over the longer term, keep moss out of your garden by planting shade-loving perennials or shrubs in areas that get less sunlight. Finally, water your lawn sparingly to avoid creating damp conditions that moss thrives in. | Remove loose moss with scarification. Scarification, also referred to as dethatching, is the process of vigorously raking or agitating the lawn in order to remove loose moss and other compact organic material. If you have a small lawn, you can do this by hand. Simply rake the yard thoroughly and with ample force to lift the moss away. Use a spring-tine rake. If you have a larger lawn, you can get a dethatching blade for your lawn mower. Set the height adjustment so that the tines can touch the surface of the soil, but if you set it too low, you will also remove your grass. Dethatch your entire lawn using this method and dispose of the moss you remove. Alternatively, if you have a larger lawn you can also rent a power rake. These have a rotating spindle with flat blades attached that loosen thatch for clean up. You can rent on from most home improvement stores. It is especially important to dethatch your lawn if you apply a chemical herbicide to kill or weaken moss beforehand. Wait the recommended amount of time as indicated on the packaging before dethatching. Try a glyphosate herbicide. Glyphosate-based herbicides are among the most popular currently on the market, but they tend to have mixed results when used to kill moss. This chemical works by being absorbed through leaves and transferred into the root zone. The exact conditions needed to make glyphosate effective against moss are presently unknown, but for best results, apply the herbicide only if there are no competing plants that the herbicide might go after instead. As with any herbicide, follow the label instructions carefully. Use iron sulfate or another sulfate-based herbicide. While these herbicides are less common, they tend to have a higher rate of success when used to kill moss. Iron or ferrous sulfate is recommended most often, but ammonium sulfate and copper sulfate herbicides are also effective. Iron weakens the moss, often killing it in the process or making it easier to kill and remove manually. Spray a 5 gallon (20 L) mixture over a 1000 square feet (304.8 square meters) area. The mixture should be about 3 oz (90 ml) of iron sulfate to 5 gallons (20 L) of water. If using copper sulfate, use 2 to 5 oz (60 to 150 ml) for every 4 gallons (16 L) of water, and spray this mixture over a 1000 square foot (304.8 square meter) area. Always follow label instructions carefully. Consider using a moss-killing soap. A cryptocidal soap product kills moss on contact. The chemical bleaches moss, turning it a white-yellow color, and should be applied sparsely. These soaps do not pose any threat to sidewalks or other structures. For best results, apply this treatment during a dry spell, when moss is at its weakest. Carefully follow the instructions on the label when applying. Nitrogen fertilizer that has been properly applied and timed will boost the turf density. Fall and spring are both good times for a light application. Plant shade-loving perennials and shrubs. Grass does not grow well in areas of heavy shade, but regrettably, moss does. If you cannot control the amount of shade your lawn receives, try planting flowers and other plants that thrive in shaded areas to prevent moss from growing instead. Plants that love shade include astilbe, brunnera, heuchera, hostas, hellebore, ferns, hydrangea, pulmonaria, and tiarella. There are other shrubs and flowers that do well with shade, as well. Simply look for shade-loving plants the next time you visit a gardening store or plant nursery. Let the sun shine through. Moss grows well in the shade, but most normal varieties of grass do not. If you want to make your lawn healthier, consider clearing away removable obstacles from your yard so that more natural sunlight can reach your grass. Keep piles of firewood, bricks, or other debris inside storage areas like your garage or garden shed. When building a new shed, think about how the position of the structure may cast shade over the lawn. Trim large trees and heavy shrubs so that more light can peek through. Avoid watering your lawn excessively. Moss thrives in areas of heavy moisture. If your lawn is doing poorly for other reasons and is already vulnerable to moss, excessive watering will only hasten the arrival of moss. You should especially avoid watering your lawn at night in the early fall or spring, during which moss growth is most persistent. If your lawn is naturally soggy, try improving its ability to drain by changing the grading of the lawn, aerating the lawn, dethatching the lawn, or installing subsurface drain lines. Give your lawn enough water to thrive. While too much moisture will create the ideal conditions for moss, too little moisture can weaken your grass and make your lawn more vulnerable to moss, too. When lawns are too dehydrated, the grass turns brown and weak. It may become too weak to respond to rain or other moisture when it does arrive. As a result, once it rains, the moss grows quickly while the grass continues to die. Prevent injuries to your lawn. While most people want to be able to enjoy their lawn, if you treat it too roughly, the grass will become notably weak. As the grass begins dying on its own, you might see more moss creeping in. Lawn injuries can occur when you play sports in the yard, ride a bike in your yard, or have a dog dig through your lawn. Additionally, crane fly larvae can also cause physical injury to your lawn. If you have a lot of crane flies in your area, consider taking measures to exterminate or repel them. Other insects like bill bugs, cutworms, and ants can also cause problems. If you are in the US, check the Department of Agriculture's website for literature regarding insect threats and management in your area. Aerate the area. Over time, your lawn can become too compacted for air, water, and fertilizer to reach the roots of the grass. As a result, the grass can die off and moss can grow in its place. Regular aeration can help control and prevent this, especially when done while the soil is on the dry side. Rent, borrow, or buy a core aerator machine to get the job done. This machine pushes a set of hollow tines into the lawn, digging out small batches of soil less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. By removing cores of soil, you free up just enough space in your yard for the soil to spread out and decompress. Try to do this at least once before the start of the growing season and once before the end of the growing season. Dethatch your lawn regularly. Dethatching disturbs the lawn more deeply than aeration does. If aeration is done on a regular basis, you will not need to dethatch quite as often. If you have a lot of problems with moss, however, it is still a good idea to go the extra length and dethatch, as well. For best results, dethatch during the spring every other year. A dethatching lawn mower blade digs down into the lawn and yanks up most of the plant material growing in the upper thatch layer of your lawn rather than in the soil. Since this is where moss grows, disturbing the thatch can help prevent moss from settling in. Seed thin areas. If certain areas of your lawn are sparsely covered by grass, planting grass seed in those areas is a good way to prevent moss from covering those areas and improve the overall quality of your lawn. Consider seeding your lawn with a shade-resistant variety of grass. These include ryegrass, fine fescues, roughstalk bluegrass, and bentgrass. Alternatively, you could also look for a pre-packaged mix labeled as "sun-shade" grass seed. When adding new seed, topdress the seeds with 1/4 inch (0.625 cm) of loose soil or sand and keep the area moist until the seedlings establish themselves. Treat the lawn with fertilizer. Moss can also squeeze its way in if the soil has poor fertility. Poor fertility means that the soil is unable to provide the nutrients needed for grass to thrive. Regular fertilizer is the best way to improve these conditions. You can have a lawn care professional test a sample of your soil from the area where moss grows. In general, though, a good indication that low fertility is your lawn's problem will be if the moss appears in dry, sunny areas of the lawn. Use a fertilizer with a high concentration of nitrogen and decent amounts of potassium and iron. Fertilizer is most helpful when use four times per year: early spring, late spring, mid-summer, and early fall. Try to stay on a regular schedule each season to get the best results. Spread agricultural lime. Lime should be used to control the acidity of your soil. Moss often grows once acidic soil begins limiting the nutrients supplied to your grass, providing room for moss to sneak in. Use a calcium-based lime for best results. Test the pH of you soil. Ideal conditions will be neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7. If the pH is below 6, it is acidic, and if it is above 7, it is alkaline. Only use lime to treat acidic soil, not alkaline soil. Apply the lime to your lawn twice each growing season if your soil has tested acidic. Do so after dethatching and aerating your lawn. Leave the aeration core plugs on the turf and they will break down and help your soil retain moisture and nutrients. | Remove loose moss with scarification. Try a glyphosate herbicide. Use iron sulfate or another sulfate-based herbicide. Consider using a moss-killing soap. Plant shade-loving perennials and shrubs. Let the sun shine through. Avoid watering your lawn excessively. Give your lawn enough water to thrive. Prevent injuries to your lawn. Aerate the area. Dethatch your lawn regularly. Seed thin areas. Treat the lawn with fertilizer. Spread agricultural lime. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Habitat-for-a-Toad | How to Create a Habitat for a Toad | To create a habitat for a toad, start by choosing a shady, quiet location with a water source, like a pond or ditch, close by. If you don't have a pond or ditch nearby, dig a shallow depression in the ground and fill it with water. Next, add plants and moss that are native to your area so the toads will have lots of shady places to hide. Then, scatter a few wooden boards, logs, and large rocks around the habitat to make it inviting. | Make your garden safe for toads. No matter how appealing and gorgeous your garden may be, if it is unsafe for toads, they are not likely to want to live there. Make your garden safe for toads by: Providing cover. Toads are very wary of predators like birds, snakes, and house pets, and they will avoid areas where they are likely to be a meal. You can create cover by providing bushes and other leafy plants for toads to hide. Avoiding chemicals. Toads, like all frogs, have thin skin and are susceptible to pesticides and herbicides in your garden. Use organic gardening supplies including dirt, fertilizers, and pest- and weed-killers. Choose a shady location. If you're lucky, you have a nice area in your yard with large shade trees that will do nicely. If you don't, you will have to pick a location and provide shade. Toads like a quiet home, so choose a place where pets and children don't run wild. A quiet corner of a yard is a nice place. Decide if you want to convert existing garden space or start fresh. You can place a toad habitat in an existing garden, as long as you don't mind sacrificing several square feet of space. Otherwise you can convert another area of your yard into a toad habitat. Toads tend to prefer to be near lots of plants of various heights, so building your toad habitat as close to your garden beds as possible is best. You also want an area that is out of direct sunlight for a good part of the day, especially if you live in a hot and dry climate. To convert existing garden space, you will need to clear at least a square foot of space by pulling out a few plants. Choose an area in the garden that likes a lot of water, since your toad will need his area to be watered quite frequently. Unlike some garden plants, toads are not "drought tolerant." Provide a water source. You will need a water source for the toad, especially if you're hoping he will make your yard a permanent home. Toads don't drink water, but instead they soak their bodies in it to absorb what they need through their skin. It is vital that you have a source of water that is big enough for the toad to soak in. Toads reproduce by bodies of water like lakes or ponds, so having a small pond or ditch nearby on your property will make your yard a more welcoming home for a toad. If you do not have a pond or other body of water nearby, you can use a large pot tray (the pie-pan shaped container that sits under a potted plant to catch the water that runs out). Dig a shallow depression in your garden and place this pot there, then pat the dirt around it into place so it sits securely flush with the ground around it. You can place flat rocks around the lip of the dish to keep it in place. Fill the dish with clean water. Add plants and moss to the area. You want to provide plants that the toad can hide in, and you also want to attract insects to the area so that the toad can feed in the evenings. Try to include native wildflowers and plants of many types. One favorite among American toads is creeping veronica. To find the correct vegetation for your part of the world, visit a local wetland and see what is growing near ponds. Keep it moist. As amphibians, toads need to be moist and have access to water at all times. It's true that they don't live in the water like their close cousin the frog, but they do need to have moist areas to hide. Wooden boards, logs, and large rocks make nice areas of cover for a frog that also stay damp. Add an optional toad house, if you'd like. Toad houses are cute living spaces for toads that also serve as a garden decoration. They have the benefit of providing safety for a toad and also staying nice and moist, which is how toads prefer their living spaces. You can purchase a pre-made toad house online or in garden centers, or try your hand at making your own. The most basic way to make a toad house is to purchase a medium sized terracotta pot and use a hammer to break a large chink out of the rim of the pot. Then, you will turn the pot upside down and place it in the frog habitat, so that the toad can access the pot using the hammered-out opening as an entryway. You can also use a dremel saw or tile saw to cut a smoother opening in the pot if you'd like, and you can decorate the pot by painting it and gluing on small stones or broken tiles as you'd like. By watering the whole area including the toad house regularly, you can keep it moist inside for its lucky inhabitant. Add decorations to enliven the space. This step is optional, but there are lots of ways you can decorate your toad habitat. Many gardeners like to create a woodsy, rustic space for toads, while others like to focus on bright colors and floral designs. Whatever your aesthetic, you can decorate your toad's habitat to match. Add smooth river stones around the water source, which make the space feel natural and also provide a place for bugs and insects to hide. Small garden figurines like gnomes or fairies are great accent pieces for a toad habitat, but avoid realistic-looking figurines that resemble toad predators like snakes, birds, or large wildlife. It's important to keep the safety of the toads in mind, so you may want to avoid putting bird feeders, bird baths, or birdhouses near the toad habitat. Small toads are a favorite food for many birds, so toads are less likely to feel welcome and safe in a toad habitat that's right next door to a bird habitat. Welcome your new toad friends. If you're lucky (and if you live by a pond or wooded area) you will not have to go out of your way to get new tenants in your toad habitat. You will just have to wait a few days for a toad to find the new water source and make himself at home. If you don't get a resident in your toad habitat within a week or two, you might want to go to a local pond or wooded area and see if you can catch one. You can also purchase toads in pet stores, but it is not recommended to release domestic toads into yards. They may not be used to living in the wild and may not have the skills needed to survive. Try not to disturb the toad habitat. You may be tempted to go out and make friends with the local toads, but it's better to watch from a distance. Similarly, keep pets and small children away. Instruct older children to observe the toad house from a distance, and be sure to supervise younger children when they are in the yard. If you are unable to keep your pets from the area, you may need to construct a small fence around the toad habitat. Otherwise, toads are unlikely to make the habitat their home. You can gauge how comfortable the toads are in your presence by watching their behavior when you are gardening. If they don't run from you, you may eventually find that you can touch or even hold them. Just take your time. Water the garden every day. Your toad likes a moist habitat, so keep the area pleasantly moist but not overly wet. Ensure that the water dish NEVER runs low on water or becomes murky or dirty. Because you must water the habitat frequently, it is important that the plants in the area prefer a lot of water to thrive. Otherwise, you may find that the frequent watering will drown the plants or encourage root rot. If you notice that the frequent watering harms the plants in the habitat, you'll need to plant something else that tolerates more water. Consider installing a toad light. In most yards, bugs are plentiful and your toads will have more than they can eat without you needing to take any additional steps. If you are lucky enough to live in an area without many nighttime bugs, you may consider investing in a light to attract insects to the toad habitat during the evening and night. Any type of small garden light will do the trick, but it should be no taller than three feet high. Install it on the periphery of the toad habitat, and keep it lit at night in the warm months whenever possible. | Make your garden safe for toads. Choose a shady location. Decide if you want to convert existing garden space or start fresh. Provide a water source. Add plants and moss to the area. Keep it moist. Add an optional toad house, if you'd like. Add decorations to enliven the space. Welcome your new toad friends. Try not to disturb the toad habitat. Water the garden every day. Consider installing a toad light. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Boy-in-Middle-School-to-Like-You | How to Get a Boy in Middle School to Like You | To get a boy in middle school to like you, talk to him in class or in the hallway so he can get to know you better. When you're talking, joke around with him and tease him in a flirty way so he knows you're interested in him. You can also try breaking the touch barrier by hugging him or touching his arm every once in a while. If you want more chances to hang out with him, get close to his friends so you're invited places where he'll be. | . Wow him If you want that special guy to start noticing you, you're going to have to put yourself out there. It's hard, but it's worth it. Look your best, work that smile , be friendly, and be yourself —he'll start wishing he knew you in no time. Dress to impress. If you're that kind of girl (if you are a girl), wear a floral dress when it's hot out, or a cute black sweater when it's cold. Wear clothes that accent your features. Get a friend's advice on what looks good on you, or ask your parents. You want him to notice how well dressed you are every time he sees you. Don't dress in something you will not feel comfortable in. Dress the way you want to but, make sure that you at least look cute. If your school has a uniform wear a color or style that looks good on you. Be clean and have good hygiene. Shower at least once a day. For example, if you practice on a soccer team or exert yourself after school, be sure to shower afterward to get all that sweat off of you. Wash your face in the morning and at night; you don't want pimples to attack your pretty face. Also, don't forget to brush your teeth ! You only get one set of adult teeth. Look after them because bad breath can really push him away, and everyone else, too. Smile. Smile when you talk to him, or when he's around. Smiling lets him know that he makes you happy. Glance at him during class, if you happen to lock eyes, smile, and hold his gaze without blinking for as long as possible. Let him digest the fact that you're thinking about him, and then look away like nothing has ever happened. Don't overdo it, though—that shouldn't be done more than once a day. Don't cake on the makeup. It's not really necessary, and lots of guys like natural anyway, so go for a natural look when it comes to makeup. If you want to use makeup, be subtle with it. Don't go overboard because that will make him not like you. Wear minimal makeup. Makeup is not for covering up your best features but making them pop. Consider going for the natural look , too. Some guys just want to see your face, not your makeup—although this is most guys, not all! Too much makeup can lead to teasing and not the flirty type! If you really want to wear makeup, just use some lip balm, foundation, and even mascara if you like. If you wear makeup, keep it simple because cake faces are a real turn off. Play around with your hairstyle. Be yourself, don't ever decide how you want your hair to look just for some boy. Consider trimming your bangs, straightening , or curling your hair if you think it suits you. Alternatively, play with wearing your hair or makeup in a different way one day. Start up a conversation. Act casual , but be yourself. If you're having trouble, pretend like you don't have a crush on him and that he's just another person. That gets rid of the tension that can make a conversation awkward. Practice on other boys like his friends. Get his number so you can text, which is a lot easier. Talk about friends in your class, something strange that happened to you, or a social event you both plan on attending. If you're having trouble keeping the conversation going, be sure to ask him lots of questions. Not so much because he might get annoyed. Make good eye contact with him throughout. Your eyes are the window into your soul, and definitely one of the most attractive parts of your body. Make sure he sees them! Focusing your eyes on him will tell him he's got your undivided attention. But don't stare at him all the time, this will make him think you're creepy. Look into his eyes when he talks to you; if you look at his feet, you don't look confident. Laugh at his jokes. Doing so will make him feel appreciated. That being said, don't force yourself to laugh because it will sound fake. If it's a joke indicated at you, make a subtle one back at him. It's all playful. . Tease him Don't make fun of him, but joking around is okay. Play around with him, and if you want to get flirty, ask him to arm wrestle you. That way, you could hold his hand and it won't seem weird or awkward. Break the touch barrier but always remember to respect people's personal space. Some people don't like being touched as much as others. Making physical contact with your crush is important because it tells him you like getting close to him. Subtle is best here: you don't want to claw at him and invade his personal space. Give him hugs when you see him. Gently touch his arm or bump your knee against his. Rub shoulders with him when you ask him to explain that science problem you both had for homework. School-related work is the best to get in touch with someone, it's a perfect excuse. When he tells a funny joke or teases you (in a flirty way), lightly hit him on the shoulder. Your body language is telling him that you actually enjoy his attention. If you're really brave, let your hand crawl up his arm onto his shoulder or play footsie with him, you can also sit on his desk before class starts. Also, blow him kisses in a playful way. Tickling is also a great way of flirting. Because a lot of guys don't like being tickled, however, you would be better off at the receiving end. Mention being ticklish and make your ticklish spots vulnerable. It's good to start with a spot like your feet and build up to being touched on the ribs and sides. Play with his hair. Don't over-do it, though, or it will look strange, and he will want to stay away from you. Get close to his friends. Boys his age are easily influenced by their friends, so if you're friends with his friends, he'll realize that you're "cool." If you're part of the same group, the two of you can hang out more often without feeling awkward. Make sure you don't become "one of the bros" because boys don't date their best friends. If you feel uncomfortable around his friends, that's fine. Don't avoid them or leave when you see them coming. Use your siblings. If both your siblings are close in age, you automatically have something to talk about! Even better, if his siblings and your siblings are friends, suggest that the two of you take your siblings to the movies or amusement park together. Make sure you become his friend first. Don't lie about yourself to make him like you. Find out things about him. Talk to him about his interests, his family, music tastes, etc. Find out if any of his interests and your interests overlap. Don't forget to actually listen! Bring up details he said later on in conversation to prove that you're a good listener. (Don't overdo this or you'll seem like a stalker.) Try to find things you have in common. Do you both play guitar or love the same bands? Suggest that you jam together! Do you both play sports? Ask him to play a pickup game sometime. Support him. It may take a bit of practice to know what makes him click but stick with it. Take the things that he likes to do and be sure to make an appearance. Does he do sports? Go to his games or tournaments and cheer him on. Ask him when it's going to be, and wish him luck if you can't come. See if he tries to spot you in the stands! Encourage him when he is down: All guys have some down moments, so cheer him up. Showing him that you care will make him more likely to care about you. Do not say another boy is "hot" or go on about someone else. He might think you like the other boy and not him. If you like multiple boys at the same time, decide on which boy which you want to pursue and only go after him. Or, have a lot of friends and don't focus on one boy! It's not like you are going to get married! It's fun to have a lot of friends and not have to worry about treating anyone one of them differently because you don't like them all the same. If your crush finds out that you like two guys at the same time, he might not feel that he was special in your mind. Study together. If there's a subject you excel at and he's struggling with, offer to help him. If the opposite is true, ask him for help. This will lead to more one-on-one time and an overall better relationship with him. You probably already know this, but don't plan on getting a lot of work done during these study sessions. Your attention is going to be spent elsewhere, and that's okay! Just prepare for your exam a day or two ahead if you can. However, you should make sure that you DO get some work done. It may seem strange if you show up for a study session, then talk the whole time. Test him. There are a couple of different ways for you to tell whether a boy likes you or not. Here are some tricks to find out without coming out and asking him. Ask him to carry your backpack to class. Tell him it's heavy and he looks strong enough to carry it easily. If he says yes, it probably means that he likes you enough to do favors for you, and likes that you think he's strong. If you want to tell one of your friends something when he's there, tell him to close his ears or to step back a little. This will make him want to hear what's going on even more, and you'll know that he cares. Make sure the coast is clear. Be sure he does not already have a partner. Double-check to make sure that none of your friends like him. You don't want to stir up a lot of drama with your friends, because you might lose a friend and scare your crush away. If one of your friends does like him, you should discuss who "gets" him. If you can't come to a fair agreement (such as who liked him first, he chooses, etc.), both of you should move on. If you decide to let your friend go after him and they get together, don't hold it against him or her. Stay friends with them. Be happy for them and realize that there will be plenty of other boys in your future. Don't give up. If you don't get the person you like, don't get sad. Be confident in who you are deep down inside and love yourself from the inside out. Sometimes, after a boy realizes you like them that way, they start to see you in a different light. Even if he says no, he may start to subconsciously think about the characteristics that he likes about you or why you would make a good girlfriend. Shy boys don't always have the courage to tell other people how they really feel, or they don't know how to. If you like a shy boy and he doesn't seem interested, it could be because he gets nervous around you and doesn't know what to do. If he is shy, keep trying to make him feel comfortable around you. Definitely hang out with him in places where he is most comfortable. Balance out your life. It's definitely tough being a middle-schooler, but you're beginning to learn how to balance out all the work and drama in your life. Don't be too over-committed or you won't have time to hang out with him and remember that there's more to life than middle school and it won't be long before you're not even sure what you ever saw in that boy! If he feels he can't keep up with you, he might get too nervous and think that you're out of his league. If you are very socially active, invite him to come along one day with you and some of your friends. This will give him a chance to be around you outside of school and in your natural state. Don't make him feel like you're never around. If you bring him along make sure he feels comfortable. Likewise, don't under-commit or you could seem like a loser. You want to surround your life with interesting activities and friends regardless of whether he likes you. If he does like you, your life just got that much better. If he doesn't like you, your life is fun and meaningful without him! Be yourself. This means being comfortable in your own skin, doing what you want to do, and saying what you want to say. The people who don't love and respect you for who you are truly aren't worth fighting for. Don't try to be somebody you're not. He'll like you just the way you are. You may even have some things in common. Show a little interest. If you think that he might like you, try to be a little more forward with him. Let him know you're interested, but not desperate. If you're not sure where he's at, be careful about following these steps; they might not turn out the way you had hoped! Ask him, "Hey, would you like to hang out with me sometime?". If he says yes, you've done your part. Smile and tell him you have to go. Then walk away without looking back. Now the ball is in his court. Suggest going to the movies or a school sports game together. Asking him to the movies would be a little more formal of a date, but you could also suggest going with friends. Asking him to a school sports game doesn't have to be a "date." It could just be you two hanging out. Ask him out to Sadie Hawkins dance, if these are ever held where you live. Sadie Hawkins is when the girls ask the boys out for a dance. Pile up your courage and ask him whether he'd want to be your date. If he says yes, he definitely likes you. . Send him a love letter If this still isn't impressing him try some love letters. Make a cute flirty playful letter from a secret admirer and leave it in his locker. Leave a secret code word like "flower" at the end of every note saying if he finds out who you are to say this word to him. After the first week start dropping hints that it's you by writing about things in the letter that he likes and then talking to him about them. Once he sees your common interests he is sure to give you a chance. Don't write anything that you would be embarrassed about if anyone else read it. Letters can get misplaced. If someone else finds your letter, you could both be in for some teasing! | . Don't cake on the makeup. Start up a conversation. . Break the touch barrier but always remember to respect people's personal space. Get close to his friends. Find out things about him. Support him. Study together. Test him. Make sure the coast is clear. Don't give up. Balance out your life. Be yourself. Show a little interest. . |
https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Made-Up-Word | How to Create a Made Up Word | To create your own made-up word, try combining 2 words which already exist to create a word with a new meaning. Use words in your native language or combine words from different languages. You can even get inspiration from young children, who often make up their own words. If you're still having trouble, try coming up with the meaning of the word first, then make up a sound that seems to fit that definition. | Start with a portmanteau. If you've tried your hand at creating a word from scratch but haven't had much luck, you may want to consider a portmanteau. A portmanteau is a word or morpheme whose form and meaning are derived from a blending of two or more distinct forms (as smog from smoke and fog). Write down some of your favorite words on a piece of paper. Spend some time mixing and matching the words together. You'll be surprised by all of the wonderful words you come up with. Borrow from other languages. There are a plethora of words to choose from when you expand your search to those found in other languages. Loanwords, or borrowings, are words that are adopted into a native language from a different source language. Such borrowings have shaped the English language almost from its beginnings Buy or borrow a Spanish, French, German or Italian dictionary. Highlight some of your favorite words and then write them down on a sheet of paper. You'll want to modify the words slightly, as the intention isn't to use the same word but to create your own. Rent a movie in a different language. Don't use the captions and listen as the actors speak. Have a pen and paper on hand and write down what you think the words are that are being spoken. Turn an object into a verb. "Google (it)" has quite literally been transformed from a company name, into a verb. There is no shortage of objects or nouns that can also be repurposed with a bit of imagination. To start, try spotting objects around your house and use them in a sentence as a verb. Don't expect everything to catch on, but over time, you may find one that will be a hit. Take suggestions from a small child. Inspiration for new words can be found in surprising places. One such place is in your own family. Young children, who are learning how to speak, often don't get it right on the first try. They create their own language as they navigate the English language. Ask your young child what their favorite word is. If they are able to write, have them write it down. Otherwise, do your best to spell out what they are saying. Listen to the babbling of your baby. You'll be surprised how many words you come up with in a short amount of time. Understand how words are created. This will give you a basis for making up your own word. English words are formed in several ways. Although one way is to create them from scratch, other words have been formed by imitating sounds. Similarly, there are many more words, often in quite common use, that have arisen over time because someone has not heard the word correctly. Next time you don't understand someone correctly, turn a potentially embarrassing situation, into a learning opportunity by creating a new word. Find inspiration at home. Listen to sounds naturally found around your home. You may be surprised by how many words you can come up with just by turning off the TV and listening to the environment. Open up your window and let in the sounds from outside. Hyphenate two word phrases (think of "see you," which became, "cya! "). You may need to do a bit of tweaking to the spelling, as was done with "cya," but try to think of phrases you can combine in to one word. Write down some of your favorite two or even three word phrases. See if you can create one word. Have fun brainstorming! More than anything, creating a made up word is supposed to be fun. Don't worry about taking yourself too seriously. If you discover a great new word, share it with your friends and family and have fun using the word together. To spread the word (pun intended), try using the word in a sentence, but be consistent. Your new word will also need a definition, so have one on hand in case others ask you about it. This will help them understand how to use the word as it was intended. | Start with a portmanteau. Borrow from other languages. Turn an object into a verb. Take suggestions from a small child. Understand how words are created. Hyphenate two word phrases (think of "see you," which became, "cya! Have fun brainstorming! |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Wedding-Makeup | How to Do Wedding Makeup | To apply wedding makeup, start by applying moisturizer and primer. Follow up with thin layers of natural-looking foundation, starting from the middle of your face and blending outward, then use concealer to hide dark circles and blemishes. Next, apply powder or cream blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend out toward your hairline. Use eyeshadow and eyeliner in natural tones, then top it off with waterproof mascara. Apply a long lasting lip stain in a flattering color, then set the look with a dusting of translucent powder. | Prep your skin. Whether you're doing your makeup yourself or not, the day of your wedding, wash your face and use a light moisturizer. Whatever your routine has been, now is not the time to change it. If you exfoliate, however, stay away from a harsh scrub and opt instead for a gentle exfoliating cleanser. If you have a blemish, dab some Visine on it but otherwise leave it alone. Your focus should be on having the clean and soft palette your makeup needs to achieve natural-looking, beautiful skin. Let your skin tone and undertone guide your makeup color choices. While there are specific skin types (identified from 1-6) for dermatological purposes , makeup companies use their own terminology to describe their makeup colors along the continuum of skin tone. And they aren't particularly consistent at that. For example, one company might call its lightest foundation “ivory” while another calls the same color “fair.” Thus, in thinking about colors that match your skin tone, it's best to first think broadly in terms of the range from "fair" to "medium" to "deep." Your skin's undertones – cool or warm – are also a factor when choosing both matching and complementary colors. You can determine your undertone with a quick trick. Hold a piece of silver and a piece of gold jewelry to the back of your hand. If the gold seems to melt away, you have a warm undertone. If the silver does, you have a cool undertone. Know that primer is required. Between the time you begin applying your makeup and the time you say goodbye to your guests, a lot will have happened. Using a primer before you apply your makeup will help ensure it holds up through the dancing, crying and toasting. You'll likely still need occasional touch-ups, but they'll be much less frequent. Additionally, a primer will help smooth fine lines and wrinkles and disguise open pores. Use a small amount after you've moisturized, but before you put on foundation. Spread it evenly on your face and eyelids to create a smooth base for everything to come. Apply foundation next. Often people think concealer goes on before foundation, but the experts beg to differ. After you've put on the primer, allow it time to dry or set. One of the biggest mistakes you can make when applying makeup is not giving each step time to dry. If needed, turn your hair dryer on its coolest setting and wave it back and forth across your face before moving from one step to the next. If you have a cool undertone, look for foundation that has a rosier, redder or blue base. If you have a warm undertone, use a foundation with a yellow or golden base. To determine if the shade is right, dip a Q-tip in the foundation and apply it to the center of your lower jawline. If it vanishes, it's the right one! Apply foundation in thin layers, starting from the middle of your face and blending outward using a foundation brush. You don't want any visible lines, so pay close attention to blending beneath your jaw and on your neck. Don't cake on foundation. It will look overdone and likely smear or streak. Add concealer where needed. Whereas foundation is designed to even skin tone, concealers are designed to hide things, like blemishes and dark circles under your eyes. If you were to apply it before your foundation, you'd rub much of it away while working the foundation into your skin. To cover red areas or dark circles, use a concealer brush to dot a liquid concealer the same shade or one shade lighter than your skin tone along trouble areas. Then pat the brush against your skin to spread the concealer. If it's not blended enough, dip the tip of a makeup sponge in water and work the concealer outward. To hide a blemish, put foundation on it first, then apply concealer before setting it with powder. If you can still see it, add more concealer and powder. Make sure you pat the concealer on the blemish. Don't rub. Apply highlighter, but go easy on it. Highlighter isn't always in everyone's makeup bag, but its purpose is to make certain facial features like eyes appear larger and to add both glow and a youthful dewy look. Using too much, or a formulation with sparkle or glitter, is a recipe for photo disaster, so tread lightly. They come in both liquid and powder forms. If you use a liquid, dab it on with a brush after your foundation in the shape of a check mark. Start near your inner eye, go down at a slight angle toward your nostril and then up your cheekbone, blending toward your temple. Do the same above your brows, down the center of your nose, the center of your forehead and your chin. If you're using a powder highlighter, use it after you powder and brush it under your brows, lightly in the corner of your eyes and on the tops of your cheekbones. Don't use powder highlighter under your eyes or over your mouth or you'll look sweaty in photos. Set your base and then contour. Really, you have two choices next. You can use a cream blush rather than a powder blush or set your base with powder. If you opt to use a powder blush, first use a translucent powder to set your base and control shine. Powder is one of those times when less is absolutely more. You're going for luminous, not laden down. Use a medium-sized brush to dust lightly over your forehead, the sides of your nose and on your chin. Then use a powder bronzer that's just a shade or two darker than your foundation and brush it in the shape of a 3 on both sides of your face. To do so, start at your hairline, move down the side of your face and then under your cheekbone, back to the side of your face and then below your jaw. Have pressed powder on hand. There are always areas that shine and need a quick dab before a photo or while in the restroom. Blush gently. Whether you're using a cream blush prior to your powder or a powder blush after, go lightly with the blush. You can always add more. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards and out toward your hairline. You don't want a pink nose, so don't brush it there. To finish, do a small check mark at your cheek bones. If you have fair skin with cool undertones, colors like soft rose or baby pink with hints of mocha or beige will look nice. If you have fair skin with warm undertones, go for golden apricot or a light peach with a bit of pink. If you have medium skin with cool undertones, try cranberry, light raspberry or rosy pink. If you have medium skin with warm undertones, look for soft coral with hints of brown or sunkissed apricot. If you have deep skin with cool undertones, blush on shades of plum, grape and raspberry. If you have deep skin with warm undertones, keep it rich with brown suede or a deep coral with a little bronze. Bring color to your eyes with shadow and liner. Wedding experts generally don't recommend a darkly dramatic eye, opting instead to use eye liners in colors other than black, paler or muted eye shadows complementary to your eye color, and highlighters to make eyes look large. Try brown, grey, and green eyeliners and apply it on both your top and bottom eyelids to draw attention to your eyes. Using a cream eye shadow will last longer and is best used on the lids of your eye while a powder is best in the crease of your eye. Use a powder highlighter in the corners of your eyes and under your brow. As for colors, try bronze shades if you have green eyes, mocha if your eyes are hazel, navy and dark brown for blue eyes, and purples and grays for brown eyes. Dampen an eyeliner brush in water and brush it into your eye shadow if you want to line your eyes with your eye shadow. Add mascara and tidy up your brows.There likely will be tears more than once, so you must have waterproof mascara. Also, if you don't already regularly wear false eyelashes, your wedding day is not the day to start. Instead, make sure you have a good eyelash curler, a volumizing mascara and a lengthening mascara. Curl your lashes before applying both. With your mascara, start at the root of your eyelashes and wiggle up from side to side to the top. Go with black – it looks good on everyone. Finish by framing your face with a brow powder a little darker than your natural color. Brush it into the natural line of your eyebrows, working outward to the end of your eyes. Create lips that look good and last. Just as you need your facial skin to be well moisturized prior to applying makeup, your lips also need to be moisturized so they aren't so dry or cracked that once color is applied all you see are lines. To avoid this, use a lip hydrator and let it absorb a couple of minutes before applying color. Choose a color that complements your blush while also following these tips. Also, while many newer lipsticks claim to last hours, going with a lip stain is a better bet on your wedding day. If you have fair skin with cool undertones, go with nude, light mocha and light mauve; if you have warm undertones, try sand, nude peach or shell. Avoid bright pinks, dark bronzes and dark mochas. If you have medium skin with cool undertones, choose a rosy pink, pomegranate or cranberry; if you have warm undertones, go for bronze, copper and cinnamon. Avoid nudes. If you have deep skin with cool undertones, check out raisin, wine or ruby red; if you have warm undertones, try honey, ginger or a coppery bronze. Avoid anything close to orange. If using lip liner, apply your lip stain or lipstick, if that's what you choose, almost to the edge of the lip. Next use a lip liner to define the shape of your lips and to seal it all in. Add just a little more color and blend the two together. If you go for a bolder, or statement, lip color, keep your eyes soft and natural to avoid the bridal doll look. Avoid smacking your lips together because this can make your smile look lop-sided. Skip the lip gloss. First, it doesn't last long. Secondly, it will end up on your groom's lips. And, finally, it can create a glare in photos. Remember it's your wedding, not girls' night out. One of the biggest mistakes brides make is caking on makeup – too many layers of overly dark foundation, far too smoky eyes, lipstick that is blindingly bright in photos and so forth. You don't want to wince when you look back on your wedding photos like you do when looking at those from prom. Think timeless. Leave experimentation for another time and place – you want to look like the best version of you, not like someone else. Makeup artists highly recommend staying away from all makeup with any glitter or sparkle because it bounces off flash photography, leaving white spots on your skin. They can be removed from photos, but it's expensive. Make sure your makeup matches your hair and dress. Because your gown most likely will be white, you'll need some color to compensate for its lack of color. Yet just as you don't want to wear too much makeup, you also don't want to wear the wrong style of makeup. Your goal is a cohesive look in which each piece makes sense with every other. Even if you love a certain style of makeup, or are simply accustomed to wearing makeup one way, that doesn't mean it's going to look good with your hair and dress. If your gown is romantic, billowy and soft, for instance, smoky eyes and bright red lipstick will clash, not be complementary. If you're wearing your hair in an updo with a lot of adornments, you should keep your makeup simple, yet still fresh and rosy. Look at bridal magazines and red carpet images, specifically, to see how stylists put together an entire look that's stunning rather than shocking. Collect images of looks you like. Another mistake brides often make is waiting until the last minute to decide how they're going to do their makeup. So definitely get started early. Pull out those bridal magazines and start looking at the makeup used. When you see something you like, tear out the whole page and put it in a file marked “makeup.” Also look in other fashion magazines, search for images online (and print them) and browse other publications. Identify what it is you like about the makeup in each image you find. Use a sharpie and write it down to the side. Look around and jot down notes at different times of the day and when you're in different moods. After you've collected a nice sample, try to determine if you notice any themes. For example, have you repeatedly written that you like a particular lip color? Do you see you've written several notes on lightening undereye circles? Think about looks you've personally seen and liked. Remember back to weddings you've attended or been a part of in the past. When do you remember thinking to yourself about the bride, “Wow, she looks AMAZING!” You may not be able to remember exactly what it was about her makeup that you liked, or if it was even her makeup that made her stand out, but you know one thing – she didn't mess it up and she looked fabulous. Give her a call. She will certainly take it as a compliment. Ask her if she did her makeup herself. If not, ask her who did. If she had a makeup artist, ask for the person's name and contact information. If you're really struggling in deciding on a look, remember that one rarely fails: radiant skin, rosy cheeks and pink lips. Don't neglect your skin. If you've not been particularly diligent about taking good care of your facial skin, now is the time to start. Get facials once per month to firm your complexion and illuminate your skin, which will create a good base for makeup. Make sure you wash your face well not only in the morning but also at night to get rid of the day's makeup. Regularly exfoliate to remove dead skin and even out your skin tone. Moisturize your face and drink plenty of water, too. Applying makeup to dry, splotchy and flaky skin won't produce your desired look, no matter how hard you try. If you have a breakout a day or two before your wedding, do not pick at it! It's much easier to cover a blemish than a scab. Wax brows or other areas of your face at least one week before your wedding to avoid any marks. If you've never waxed before, don't start doing so days before your wedding because you can get a rash if you've never before waxed. Consider whitening your teeth, too. There are many options, from having it done at the dentist's office to doing it at home with over-the-counter products. You should start 3-4 months before the wedding. Decide who will do your makeup. You may choose to do your own makeup, as Kate Middleton did before she wed Prince William. Or you may decide to have a friend or a makeup artist do it. If the latter, you may already have a recommendation from a friend. If not, consider asking your wedding planner if he or she can recommend one. You could also ask the coordinator of events for your wedding venue, look online or talk with the salon owner where you have your hair done or where you're planning to have your hair done if you're going that route. No matter whom you select, ask to see a portfolio. If it's heavy in everything but the look you want, find someone else. Set up a trial run before the wedding. If you choose to have your makeup done by another person, schedule a time at least one month before the wedding to have a trial run. By this time, you'll be more settled in the overall planning of your wedding and have a better idea of what you want. Take your collected images, a photo of your dress, a photo or image of what your hair will look like and a photo of yourself when you think you look your best to your trial run. This will all help the person doing your makeup both create the look you want and one that will work with your other elements. If you plan to tan before your wedding, you need to achieve that color before your makeup trial, too, or the results will not be the same. Also remember that while you might find a makeup look that you love, it might not look good with your coloring. If you're using a makeup artist, allow him or her to guide you on these matters. Always wear a white t-shirt to your trial run so you can see how your makeup will look against your dress. Take a photo with no flash before you leave. Do a trial run by yourself. If you don't know much about makeup application, keep reading. You can also research it online; watch YouTube videos; or go to a department store, look around at the women selling products at the makeup counters and find someone wearing a makeup style you like. Ask her for a makeover, which they'll often do for free in hopes that you'll buy some of their products. You might find that you do. Practice doing your makeup in natural light, using the products you plan to use. Also wear a white t-shirt and take a photo of yourself afterward. | Prep your skin. Let your skin tone and undertone guide your makeup color choices. Know that primer is required. Apply foundation next. Add concealer where needed. Apply highlighter, but go easy on it. Set your base and then contour. Blush gently. Bring color to your eyes with shadow and liner. Add mascara and tidy up your brows.There likely will be tears more than once, so you must have waterproof mascara. Create lips that look good and last. Remember it's your wedding, not girls' night out. Make sure your makeup matches your hair and dress. Collect images of looks you like. Think about looks you've personally seen and liked. Don't neglect your skin. Decide who will do your makeup. Set up a trial run before the wedding. Do a trial run by yourself. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Gas-Grill | How to Clean a Gas Grill | To clean a gas grill, start by turning off the gas supply and scrubbing the grates with soapy water using a wire brush. Then, take out the grates and any metal coverings over the burners and scrub the burners with soapy water as well. Once you've cleaned the grates and burners, remove the pan underneath the burners and scrape all of the build-up and debris away with a metal spatula. Finally, scrub the area underneath the pan with soapy water and then reassemble the grill. | Turn off the gas supply to the grill. You do not want to have dangerous gasses build up during the cleaning process that can lead to injury. Locate the gas supply valve on the propane tank for LP grills and where the grill connects to the house for LNG supplied grills. Turn the knob or lever clockwise to shut off the gas supply running into the grill. Remember "righty-tighty, lefty-loosey" to close and open valves. Remove the grates and scrub with a wire brush and soapy water. Grill brushes can be purchased from your local supermarket that have wire bristles, an acrylic scrubber, and a metal scraper. Invest in a grill brush for easy cleaning. Fill a bucket with soapy water made from teaspoon of liquid dish soap for every quart of water. Dip the wire brush in the water and scrub away any grimy build up present on the grates. Be sure to clean both sides of the grates. Remove any metal plates or coverings over the burners and scrub clean. The plates protect the burners and help to disperse the heat to allow for even cooking. Clean the burner protectors by scrubbing with sponge or scouring pad dipped in soapy water. Gently wipe any grime off the burners. Check the holes in the burners for clogs and use a toothpick to dislodge any objects that may be blocking the flow of gas. In some grill models the burners are easy to remove for cleaning; if yours do not come out easily, you can wipe them clean while they are in place. Scrape any charred drippings from the bottom of the grill surface. If your grill has a removable bottom pan, you can take it out to scrape all the debris away. If the bottom pan is secured in place use a metal spatula or grill scraper to push any burnt scraps through the grease hole and catch them in a trash bag. Clean the bottom of the grill with a soapy sponge. Once all the chunks are gone, scrub the bottom with a sponge or scouring pad and soapy water to remove any built up grease or grime. Lots of drippings and food scraps tend to build up under the burners of the grill. Pay close attention to this area and clean it as much as possible to avoid corrosion. Check the sides and underside of the lid for flaking paint or caked on food. Use the grill scraper to gently clean any flecks off the underside of the lid and wipe it clean with a soapy sponge. Be careful not to scratch the metal or scrape any undamaged paint off the lid as this may lead to rusting or corrosion. Replace burner covers and grill grates. Reassemble your grill by putting everything back in the reverse order you removed it. Burner covers and grill grates usually rest in place. Look for groves or ledges to place these items back in the proper location. Turn on the gas and fire up the grill. Turn the grill on high and close the lid for 15 minutes to burn off any remaining soap or cleaners you used on the interior surfaces of the grill. Turn off the burners and oil the grates. Oiling the grates will help to prevent your food from sticking to the surface. Dip a paper towel in canola oil. Use tongs to rub the oily towel over the surface of the hot grates. Turn of the gas before beginning to clean the grill. Make sure that the gas valve is completely closed to avoid filling the grill with dangerous flammable gas during the cleaning process. Check the drip pan under the grill and replace as needed. Most grills have a disposal drip pan or cup. Clean the surface of the drip pan holder, and replace the liner with a fresh aluminum pie plate or tin can. If your drip pan is not disposable, wipe out the grease with paper towels. After removing as much grease as possible rinse the drip pan with a solution of soapy water. Fill a bucket with soapy water. Make a soapy solution to clean the outside of the grill with 1 teaspoon of dish soap per quart of water. Wipe the exterior surfaces with an old rag dipped in soapy water. Clean all surfaces of the grill thoroughly to minimize the chances of corrosion due to food bits clinging to the metal. Pay close attention to the areas around the knobs to remove any drips that may have accumulated. Wipe the side panels or burners with the soapy water as well. Rinse any soap away with a gentle spray from a hose. Keep spots from forming due to soap bubbles by thoroughly rinsing the outside of your grill after cleaning. Use glass or stainless cleaner to polish any stainless steel surfaces. If your grill has a stainless steel lid or cabinets, spray a glass cleaner on the surface and wipe with a paper towel to keep the surfaces looking shiny. Oil the surface of the grates before each use. Keep your grill grates cleaner by oiling them prior to each use with an old rag or paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. Use tongs to rub the oily towel on the hot grates before placing food on the grill. Clean the grates with a wire brush after each use. It is easiest to clean the grill grates while they are still hot. Use a wire grill brush to scrape away any remaining food bits by rubbing the wire bristles along the length of the grates. Check your gas line for leaks. Regularly inspect the gas lines connecting your grill to the gas tank by applying a small amount of soapy water to the surface of the line and connectors. This should be done each season you are using the grill and monthly during periods of high usage. Use a rag or brush to apply soapy water along the length of the gas line. Make sure to apply soapy water liberally around the connections and valves. Look for any bubbles that indicate gas is leaking causing a potentially dangerous situation. Burn off any drippings to prevent grimy build up. In between every 3-4 times you grill, heat up the grill without any food present. Turn the burners on high. Close the lid to burn up any drippings that have fallen on the burner protectors. Allow the heat to build up inside the grill for 10-15 minutes. Cover your grill in between uses. Invest in a cover for your grill to protect it from the elements when it is not in being used. Keeping rain and debris from piling up on your grill will help keep it from rusting and extend the life of your grill. Finished. | Turn off the gas supply to the grill. Remove the grates and scrub with a wire brush and soapy water. Remove any metal plates or coverings over the burners and scrub clean. Gently wipe any grime off the burners. Scrape any charred drippings from the bottom of the grill surface. Clean the bottom of the grill with a soapy sponge. Check the sides and underside of the lid for flaking paint or caked on food. Replace burner covers and grill grates. Turn on the gas and fire up the grill. Turn off the burners and oil the grates. Turn of the gas before beginning to clean the grill. Check the drip pan under the grill and replace as needed. Fill a bucket with soapy water. Wipe the exterior surfaces with an old rag dipped in soapy water. Rinse any soap away with a gentle spray from a hose. Use glass or stainless cleaner to polish any stainless steel surfaces. Oil the surface of the grates before each use. Clean the grates with a wire brush after each use. Check your gas line for leaks. Burn off any drippings to prevent grimy build up. Cover your grill in between uses. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Draw-Jack-Skellington | How to Draw Jack Skellington | To draw Jack Skellington, start by drawing a stick figure from the waist up, using a circle for the head. Next, draw in the suit and add a bat-shaped bowtie over the figure's shoulders. Then, add two circles to the head for the eyes and two slanted lines beneath them for the nostrils. For the mouth, draw a long, curved horizontal line with short vertical lines across it. Finally, erase any unnecessary lines and color in the drawing. | Draw a stick figure of Jack. Add volume to the stick figure. Take note that Jack is very thin and has pointy fingers. Draw his suit. He has a bat-inspired bowtie and the bottom of his coat has five pointy tips at the back. Draw the face. He has eye sockets since he is already a skeleton. Draw an angle pointing upwards for the nose. Use vertical lines lined across a horizontal line for the mouth. Erase unnecessary lines. Color your drawing. Draw a stick figure from the head to the torso. Draw his suit. Take note of the bat-inspired bowtie. Sketch the face. Use a circle for the eyes, two short slanted lines for the nostrils and a long curved horizontal line with vertical lines lined across for the mouth. Add lines under the eyes to give him the wrinkly effect. Erase unnecessary lines. Color your drawing. | Draw a stick figure of Jack. Add volume to the stick figure. Draw his suit. Draw the face. Erase unnecessary lines. Color your drawing. Draw a stick figure from the head to the torso. Draw his suit. Sketch the face. Erase unnecessary lines. Color your drawing. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Famous-Rapper | How to Be a Famous Rapper | If you want to be a famous rapper, start by studying rappers you like to learn how they rhyme and flow. Once you understand what makes a great rap, practice writing your own bars. Write lyrics that are honest and original so they resonate with people. Then, look for a producer to mix your raps with beats and samples and turn it into a full song. If you can't find a producer, consider creating your own beats or rapping over royalty-free tracks. After you've finished a few songs, upload them to your YouTube or Soundcloud account to start getting exposure. When you've built a significant audience, play shows in your area to draw in new fans. The more you write and perform, the more successful you'll get. | Study the rhyming styles of legendary hip hop artists. Rap has evolved over the decades in not only the type of content that rappers talk about in their lyrics, but the way lyrics are strung together and delivered. Study the delivery of greats like Tupac Shakur, Notorious BIG, Nas, Grandmaster Flash, Rakim, Jay-Z, Eminem and the Wu-Tang Clan to get an understanding of different rhyming styles. You can also get inspired by what's currently popular with artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nicki Minaj. Delivery is almost as important as the lyrics themselves. Take note on how some rappers delivery is faster, slower, smoother, or harsher than others. Study the wordplay and context of songs. Look for double meanings and puns so you can incorporate these things into your lyrics. Remain original, but draw from the skills of artists that came before you. You don't have to sound the same, but you must understand why and how they made music. Master the various rhyming schemes that exist. Different rhyming schemes are available to rappers, from AABB to AXXA. These rhyming styles dictate which words rhyme in your lyrics. Study them and develop your rhyming versatility. Most verses in rap songs are "16 bars" or 4 sets of 4 lines of lyrics in a song. Start with simple rhyming schemes like ABAB and build up to include more complex rhymes. An example of an ABAB rhyme is "That cat, over there, in the hat, on the bear." The last word in the first and third lines rhyme as well as the last word in the second and fourth line. Some rhymes are known as half-rhymes if they have similar sounding ending consonant sounds but do not fully rhyme. An example would be "bald" and "held." Build up your rhyming ability but keep it catchy. Some artists get so complex and into their art that they forget that it must also appeal to the general audience. As you build up your lyrical skills, make sure to keep the listener in mind and don't get too fancy or else you may lose fans. Taking risks are a part of being a popular artist, but sometimes you can lose fans if they don't like the direction you're going in. Just because a song is catchy does not mean that it has to lack substance. Have the ability to deliver a good hook. The hook is the part of the song that is often repeated and is the portion of the track that's usually most remembered by fans. For other genres of music, this is typically referred to as the chorus. Having a good hook in a song is incredibly important if you want it to be popular. The hook should be catchy, memorable, and should embody the song. A popular hook from the past is Chamillionaire's "Ridin Dirty." "They see me rollin', they hatin', Patrollin' and tryna catch me ridin' dirty. Tryna catch me ridin' dirty." If you aren't a singer or aren't good with hooks, consider collaborating with an R&B singer who would be better equipped. Think of something that helps support the verses in your songs. Never stop practicing to stay sharp on your wordplay. Regardless of how popular or famous you get, it's important to stay on the top of your game. Rapping is a skill that requires discipline and practice so make sure to regularly practice to work out your rapping abilities. Take every opportunity to show other people your songs and get feedback. Practice in front of the mirror, while you're in the car, or taking a walk. Write original songs that illicit an emotional response. While copying popular or iconic music may get you a small amount of success, it will never make you as popular as the artist that you're trying to be. It's important to draw from personal circumstances, events, and emotions from your life and the lives of people around you. If you've been through tough times it is likely people have shared similar experiences. Being open and genuine will affect people more than copying a lifestyle you've never lived. Try to mix up your catalog of music. Don't always rap about the same thing and make sure your songs don't all share the same mood. Showing a range of emotion will allow you to connect to more fans. Collaborate with producers to create full songs. Unless you plan on mixing and creating your own beats, you'll most likely have to meet a producer that's already good at it. Try to get producers that have created successful songs in the past, and meet with them so that they can cater their beats to your unique style and voice. Talk to other rappers to find local producers that would be willing to collaborate. Send local recording studios a demo of your music if you're still unable to find a producer in your personal network. If you can't find a producer, consider learning how to create your own beats or use royalty free music. Record music in a studio. A music studio will be able to refine, mix, and remaster the music that you make. In addition, they will have the hardware and equipment, like mixers and mics, to make sure that the best quality music is produced. Call a local studio and ask for rates and schedule a time to record. Make sure to have a game plan before going into the studio. Studios usually charge an hourly fee, so wasting time is not smart. Some musicians record in their bedroom, but it requires skill and knowledge on how to mix sound. You will also likely need expensive equipment like a powerful laptop and a good microphone in order to create high-quality music. Upload your songs and create videos on YouTube and Soundcloud. You can only become famous if your music is popular, which means people need to be able to listen to it. Before you get signed to a label or release a record, exposure online can be an early springboard towards success. Partnering up with a video producer to create a music video can also help get your music out there. Artists like Soulja Boy and Macklemore got their start on YouTube. Develop your own style. Being a top rapper means that you can be innovative, genuine, and likable over the long run. Developing your own unique style and sound is critical to standing out from the crowd. Take the unique aspects from your personality and integrate that into your music, and never stray away from what makes you different and unique. Artists like J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar are different than most of the rap mainstream due to their lyrical content and production, but were able to pick up multiple Grammy nominations. Play local shows or open for bigger artists. When you're first starting off, you're probably not going to be headlining your own show. It's important to get performing experience before you being to play in front of a large audience. Hang around local venues and get to know the staff there. Ask the talent manager or booking agent there if you can open for other hip hop acts. Talk to other local artists. If you become their friend, they may want you to open for their shows. Hire a manager to take on booking responsibilities. If you're not able to book any shows, then a manager may help in directing your career. They can use their pre-existing relationships with venue owners and people in the industry in order to get your foot in the door. Managers typically take 15% -20% of the income that you generate. Before you hire a manager, make sure that you've exhausted your own personal networking connections to land gigs. Keep good relationships with people in the music industry. Getting into personal arguments with other people in the music industry will most likely come back to hurt you. Don't do anything that violates your own personal set of ethics, but try to maintain good relationships by remaining respectful and not spreading rumors or holding grudges against those that you work with. Have a strong social media presence. Social media has given the ability for artists and rappers to directly communicate with their fans and has completely revolutionized the rapper and fan relationship. Staying active and relevant on social media will allow you to hype new tracks and promote your music, as well as stay in touch with the people listening to your songs. Try to stay away from arguments or starting "beef" with other musicians unless it advances your career. Be careful about what you post because it could ruin your career. Merchandise your brand. Branching out and merchandising your brand will give you another revenue stream and will increase your exposure to the general public. Many of the most famous rappers have merchandised in some way over the span of their careers. Popular rap driven clothing brands include Drake's OVO apparel, Kanye West's "Yeezus" and "Life of Pablo" merchandise, and Yung Lean's SBE Gear. Dr. Dre owns Beats Music and Beats which increased his net worth to $800 million. Merchandising will get people who don't like rap aware of your brand. Stay relevant and do research on new music. Musical evolution is critical, especially in the case of hip-hop and rap. As you age, it becomes harder for you to stay relevant, so you must be up on the latest trends in the rap industry. Integrate what's popular into your music and make it your own. Don't be judgmental of younger rappers if you don't get why they are popular. Instead, try to see the perspective of the fans and figure out the aspects that make it sell. Do not get stuck in your ways when you're rapping. Rap has evolved and will continue to evolve with or without you. | Study the rhyming styles of legendary hip hop artists. Master the various rhyming schemes that exist. Build up your rhyming ability but keep it catchy. Have the ability to deliver a good hook. Never stop practicing to stay sharp on your wordplay. Write original songs that illicit an emotional response. Collaborate with producers to create full songs. Record music in a studio. Upload your songs and create videos on YouTube and Soundcloud. Develop your own style. Play local shows or open for bigger artists. Hire a manager to take on booking responsibilities. Keep good relationships with people in the music industry. Have a strong social media presence. Merchandise your brand. Stay relevant and do research on new music. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Repel-Cats | How to Repel Cats | To repel cats outside, mulch your garden and other areas you want to protect with citrus fruit peels or coffee grounds, which deter cats. You can also plant lemongrass or lavender in and around your yard, since these plants look and smell nice but drive cats away. If you're still having trouble with cats outside your home, put motion-activated water sprinklers around your yard, because cats really don't like water. Alternatively, spray a small amount of a commercial cat repellent around the perimeter of your yard to keep cats away. | Cover surfaces you want to keep cats off with aluminum foil. If your cat is constantly scratching at a couch, or won't quit leaving a layer of fur on the back of a chair, an easy and effective technique can be to line the surface with a sheet of aluminum foil. The sound and the texture of the foil is undesirable for the cat, and they'll usually avoid it. You can always remove the foil when you're using the chair or company is coming over. Some cat owners have also reported success using strips of masking tape on the arms of couches or pillows to create a strange texture the cats won't like. Sticky side up or down, it can be an effective repellent. It's also effective to use scented repellents on small sheets or pieces of foil to make the cat less attracted to the area. These scents are discussed in the following step. Use cat repellent scents. Citrus-scented cleaners are the most effective at keeping cats off of surfaces, so citrus cleaners are great to use on counter tops, around appliances, and gently on furniture and other places in your home where you do not want your cats to go. Lemongrass, lavender, and coleus are other natural cat-repellent scents. Try tossing lavender and citrus peels in small bowls and place them on shelves next to breakable items, or other places where you do not want your cats to go. Add essential oils in those same scents to increase the smell, if necessary. Spray lavender or citrus fabric fresheners on rugs to keep cats out of certain rooms in the house. You can also use these sprays on other soft surfaces, such as curtains and bed spreads, to deter cats from those places. Commercial cat repellents are often made from fox urine, or the waste of other predators. It's probably not something you want to spray indoors, but the use of repellent is discussed in the following method. Use water. If your cat won't stay off your fern, or keeps climbing up and messing with the couch she always claws, use a little water to flick onto the cat. You can keep a small glass of water close by to the place you're trying to repel the cat from, dip your finger in, and flick some water around to discourage the cat. Better yet, buy a couple small toy squirt-guns and hide them at strategic places around the house so you'll always have an armament close by. When you use it, aim at the cat's body. Avoid its face, as a strong stream might actually hurt the cat's eyes or nose. Do it calmly, without raising your voice. It should be the water that the cat associates with the location, and the discomfort, not your presence or your voice. Don't make loud sounds to punish the cat. Clicking spoons together, snapping your fingers, or yelling are not effective ways at getting your cat to stay off of surfaces or objects. You'll get the results you want in the short term–the cat will run away and hide somewhere, probably. Long-term, though, cats will come to react that way whenever they hear the sound of your raised voice, two things clicking, or snapping sounds. You'll be training your cat to be skittish, but not to avoid the object you want avoided. Provide alternative spaces. Is it any wonder your cat wants to curl up on your super-soft comforter and take a nap? If you want to keep your cat off your bed, you need to provide a comfortable and equally-inviting sleeping alternative for the cat. Not all cats like to sleep in beds, but little spaces with furry warm blankets are inviting and pleasant. Prepare a box with an old blanket, and sprinkle a little catnip in there to make it more enticing. If your cat is scratching furniture, it's absolutely essential that you get a scratching post and tend to the cat's nails regularly. Cats with their claws must regularly scratch things, so you need to provide them a surface to dig into. It's also a good idea to make surfaces you want the cat to avoid as difficult to get to as possible. Cats are obviously sneaky jumpers and creepers, so this can be difficult, but trying to remove jumping surfaces and other objects the cat uses to perch on can help to keep them off high surfaces and difficult-to-reach spots. Remove food sources. If outdoor cats are coming around your yard, it's because they're looking for food and probably finding it somewhere. If you have pets, make sure their food is indoors and impossible to get to, and that there is no extra food lying around where strays can get at it. It's also a good idea to make sure mice haven't taken up residence in your porch or foundation, or you might end up welcoming the extra feline security. Check all your trashcans for security, making sure the lids are secure and no food scraps are hanging out or easy to reach. Keep your trash pile manageable and secure so that no cats will come sniffing around the scent those tuna cans. Talk politely to the neighbors to find out if they've been feeding cats. If one person starts laying out food, it makes it very difficult to keep the cats away. It's also a recipe for overfeeding, which ends up negatively affecting the cats' health in the long run. Use moving water sprinklers to scare cats off. Cats, even feral ones, really don't like water. Place motion-activated water sprinklers in strategic spots where you see cats regularly, and where you'd like them to avoid. Place them in areas where you know cats enter the yard, and in several other spots, as well, so you get good coverage. After a couple days, change the location up slightly so the cats will be sure to get scared off and won't be able to learn the new pattern. It shouldn't take many water scare-offs before the cats leave your yard alone. Plant cat repellents. There are a variety of plants that look attractive in your yard, but are really unattractive to cats. Specifically, planting the herb rue in and around your garden will make cats stay far away. In the fall, you can harvest and dry rue to store it during winter and use as cat repellent. In the spring, sprinkle it in the garden to keep cats away from your starts. Other nice plants known for their cat repellent properties include citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus and lavender. These are pleasant scents for people and attractive looking plants to have in your yard, but cats hate them with a passion. Use cat repellent mulches. You can mulch the surface of your garden, as well as between outdoor plants, bird feeders, and other places you'd like to keep cats away, using citrus fruit peels, coffee grounds or pipe tobacco. All are known cat deterrents, and have nitrogen-fixing properties for the soil, making them excellent for the environment and for scaring cats off. Bring out bigger guns. If you've got real cat problems and no pets of your own, you may not want to play nice anymore. Without being cruel to the cats you want to keep away, you can invest in more reliable and effective methods sure to keep cats away, including commercial cat repellent sprays and sonic devices designed to irritate animals. Try a commercially sold cat repellent. Usually, these are made of synthesized or collected predator urine, and a small amount around the perimeter of your yard should do a lot to keep cats and other animals away. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and make sure the substance won't harm the animals. Install an ultrasonic pet repellent designed to repel cats. These devices create high-pitched audio transmissions that humans and most other animals do not hear, driving them away enthusiastically. Do not use these repellents if you have pets of your own. You may also want to talk to your neighbors to find out whether or not they have pets if you want to use one of these devices. Protect the things you don't want touched by cats. If you've got a budding garden and want to keep cats and other pests away from your vegetables and plants, you can create barriers that will make it physically difficult for anything to get in. Close off the entrance to sheds, porches or other areas that cats might enjoy sleeping or urinating in. Taking away their shelter may keep them out of your yard entirely. Put small rocks in the garden where there is exposed dirt to prevent cats from digging. You can also cut plastic carpet runners to fit between garden rows or any other area where a large amount of dirt is exposed. Lay them in the garden with the spoke side pointing up and then lightly cover them with soil. These spokes won't injure the cats' paws, but will deter them from stepping there. You can find plastic carpet runners at most office supply stores and carpet stores. They can be a bit expensive, but once you customize them for your garden, you can use them year after year. Lay chicken wire flat on the soil between rows as an inexpensive alternative to carpet runners. Use rocks or ground spikes to anchor the ends of the pieces and cover the chicken wire with soil. Consider establishing a place in your yard for cats use. If you make the cat's usual haunts less attractive, you might want to provide them with an out-of-the-way area in your yard to decrease the chances of them returning to the forbidden zones. This is an especially good idea if it's your cat, or if you enjoy the cat's presence, but want them to stay out of your sugar-snap peas. Plant catnip in the opposite corner of the yard from where you want the cats, and allow the grass to grow significantly taller. Add a tall perch or two from an old bar stool or bench if there is not a tree, fence or other high spot available for the cat to survey its domain. You can provide outdoor cats a litter box by tilling the soil in a designated area or putting sand on the ground in that spot. Clean the area regularly to encourage them to keep using it. Consider trapping and neutering stray cats in your neighborhood. Recently, the ASPCA has promoted a policy called Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) as a way of controlling feral populations. If you've got a serious problem with stray cats in your neighborhood, consider helping to control the population and help the animals in your neighborhood stay healthy by having them neutered and releasing them again. | Cover surfaces you want to keep cats off with aluminum foil. Use cat repellent scents. Use water. Don't make loud sounds to punish the cat. Provide alternative spaces. Remove food sources. Use moving water sprinklers to scare cats off. Plant cat repellents. Use cat repellent mulches. Bring out bigger guns. Protect the things you don't want touched by cats. Consider establishing a place in your yard for cats use. Consider trapping and neutering stray cats in your neighborhood. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Open-a-Beer-Bottle | How to Open a Beer Bottle | The easiest way to open a beer bottle is to wedge a bottle opener under the cap and then pry it off. However, if you don't have a bottle opener, you can still open a beer by resting the rim of the cap on the edge of a countertop or table and then hitting the top of the cap with your palm. You can also use a lighter to open a beer bottle. Just grip the bottle tightly by the neck so your thumb and index finger are squeezing the cap. Then, wedge the bottom corner of the lighter under the cap and press down on the top of the lighter to pop the cap off. | Hold the beer bottle and the bottle opener in opposite hands. Grip the beer bottle by the base of the bottle. Hold the bottle opener by the handle so the flat end with the cut-out section in the middle is exposed. It may be easiest for you to hold the bottle opener with your dominant hand. Wedge the sharp edge of the opener under the side of the bottle cap. Look at the cut-out section on the flat end of the bottle opener. The edge of the cut-out section closest to the handle is the edge you want to wedge under the bottle cap. After you wedge the sharp edge of the bottle opener under the bottle cap, the opposite edge of the cutout section should be resting on the top of the bottle cap. Lift the handle of the bottle opener up with your dominant hand. As you lift the handle up, the far edge of the cut-out section of the bottle opener will press down on top of the bottle cap. At the same time, the sharp edge of the bottle opener will lift up the side of the cap, causing the cap to bend upward and pop off of the bottle. Discard or recycle the bottle cap. Once the bottle cap is off the beer bottle, you can set the bottle opener aside and enjoy your beer! Hold a key in your dominant hand and the bottle in your other hand. Hold the key so the long blade portion of the key is exposed. Grip the beer bottle by the base. Don't have a key? Use a metal utensil like a butter knife or spoon instead. Wedge the long edge of the key under the side of the bottle cap. Use the smooth, flat side of the key. Firmly press the edge of the key into the cap. Twist the outward-facing edge of the key down with your dominant hand. As you twist the outward-facing edge of the key down, the edge that's wedged under the bottle cap will push up on the bottle cap. Keep twisting down until you feel the section of the bottle cap you're working on lift from the bottle. Rotate the bottle and repeat on a different section. Continue lifting sections of the bottle cap up with the key until the bottle cap pops off. Discard or recycle the bottle cap once it comes off. Hold the beer bottle so the cap is resting on the edge of a countertop. Grip the beer bottle firmly by the base and hold it steady against the edge of the counter. To see if you're holding the bottle correctly, slightly loosen your grip on the bottle. You should be able to feel the bottle hanging off the edge of the countertop by the cap. Retighten your grip. Some countertops may get chipped or scratched if you try to open a beer bottle on them. Raise your free hand up above your head. Close your fingers together and angle your hand so it's parallel with the floor. Your palm should be facing down toward the floor. Bring your hand down and hit the top of the bottle cap. Hit the top of the cap with the center of your palm. Make sure the cap is still resting on the lip of the countertop when you hit it. If the cap doesn't come off, get the bottle back into the starting position so you can try again. Be careful not to slam your hand down so hard that you hurt yourself. Keep trying until the cap comes off the beer bottle. You may need to hit the cap several times for it to pop off. If the cap doesn't come off after several attempts, double check that you're holding the bottle correctly. Make sure the cap is resting on the lip of the countertop before you hit it with your hand. Use a cheap lighter. The lighter you use to open the beer bottle may get scratched and chipped. Use a lighter you won't mind getting damaged. Grip the beer bottle by the neck. Hold the bottle so your thumb and index fingers come right up to the top of the bottle cap. Squeeze your fingers around the bottle so you have a firm grip. Wedge the bottom corner of the lighter under the side of the bottle cap. Move your index finger and thumb to make room for the lighter, without loosening your grip. The body of the lighter should be pointing upward at about a 120-degree angle from the top of the bottle cap. Press the top end of the lighter down with your hand. Maintain a firm grip on the neck of the beer bottle with your other hand. As you're pressing down on the top end of the lighter, the bottom end will start to lift up, bringing the side of the bottle cap up with it. Keep pressing down on the top end of the lighter until the cap pops off. If you've lifted the side of the bottle cap but the cap doesn't pop off, use your fingers to gently help the cap off the bottle. Discard or recycle the cap. | Hold the beer bottle and the bottle opener in opposite hands. Wedge the sharp edge of the opener under the side of the bottle cap. Lift the handle of the bottle opener up with your dominant hand. Discard or recycle the bottle cap. Hold a key in your dominant hand and the bottle in your other hand. Wedge the long edge of the key under the side of the bottle cap. Twist the outward-facing edge of the key down with your dominant hand. Rotate the bottle and repeat on a different section. Hold the beer bottle so the cap is resting on the edge of a countertop. Raise your free hand up above your head. Bring your hand down and hit the top of the bottle cap. Keep trying until the cap comes off the beer bottle. Use a cheap lighter. Grip the beer bottle by the neck. Wedge the bottom corner of the lighter under the side of the bottle cap. Press the top end of the lighter down with your hand. Keep pressing down on the top end of the lighter until the cap pops off. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Pumice-Your-Feet | How to Pumice Your Feet | To get the most out of a pumice stone, soak your feet for 10 minutes in a bowl of warm water, soap, and either vinegar or oil. Wet the pumice stone with the soap solution, then rub the stone over your feet to exfoliate them. Use gentle, circular motions to remove dead skin and firm, back and forth motions to remove warts and corns. When you're finished, rinse your feet with water, pat them dry with a towel, and cover them with cocoa butter or coconut oil. | Fill up a basin with soapy water. Get a shallow basin that when filled with water, submerges up to the ankle. Fill the basin with warm water and a squirt of body wash. Add oil or vinegar to the basin. Put a few drops of either baby oil or tea tree oil in with the water to quicken the softening process. As an alternative, you can add about 2 US tbsp (30 ml) of apple cider vinegar to the soak. Try adding Epsom salt to the water to soften your feet even more. Soak your feet for about ten minutes. Leave your feet resting in the basin for at least five and up to twenty minutes. The goal is to make sure that your feet are fully softened. Leave them in a bit longer if you have a lot of growths on your feet that you're trying to get rid of. Wet the pumice stone. Before using the pumice stone on your feet, dunk it in the warm soapy water that's in the basin. Remove dead skin and calluses in a circular motion. Exfoliate the skin on your feet with the pumice stone and spend extra time on the tougher areas of your feet bottoms, such as the heels. This will aid in removing thick, leathery calluses as well as the dead skin cells sitting on top of your healthy skin. Use gentle strokes, and don't scrape yourself to the point where your skin is bleeding. Remove any warts or corns by moving in one direction or back and forth. Spend two to three minutes on any one corn or wart by carefully rubbing over the growth with the pumice stone. This will keep the skin around the growth from tearing. Some growths, such as warts, have the potential to spread. If you're using the pumice stone on a potentially contagious area, be sure to sanitize it completely before moving to another area on your foot. Rinse and pat your feet dry. After you've used pumice on your feet, make sure to rinse them with fresh water and gently pat them dry with a clean washcloth. They will be a bit tender, so refrain from rubbing them dry in a harsh manner. Be especially sure to dry between your toes, as moisture there can lead to a fungal infection. Moisturize your feet afterward. Since pumicing your feet can be a little irritating for your skin, it's a good idea to soothe your feet with a plant-based moisturizer. Try rubbing your feet with cocoa butter or coconut oil. You could also use a hydrating foot repair lotion. Keep your pumice stone clean. After each time you scrub your feet with the stone, you should rinse it with clean, clear water. After several uses, boil the pumice stone in a vinegar solution containing four cups of water and two tablespoons of vinegar. Store the stone in a dry location. To maintain cleanliness, avoid keeping your pumice stone in a location near the bathtub or shower where it can collect moisture. Instead, keep your pumice stone in the towel closet or underneath the bathroom sink. Continue to pumice your feet daily. Especially if your feet have multiple growths and are feeling very dry, complete this regimen every day until you see a more lasting result. | Fill up a basin with soapy water. Add oil or vinegar to the basin. Soak your feet for about ten minutes. Wet the pumice stone. Remove dead skin and calluses in a circular motion. Remove any warts or corns by moving in one direction or back and forth. Rinse and pat your feet dry. Moisturize your feet afterward. Keep your pumice stone clean. Store the stone in a dry location. Continue to pumice your feet daily. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Feel-Your-Cervix | How to Feel Your Cervix | To feel your cervix, first wash your hands to avoid transferring any bacteria to your vagina. Once your hands are clean, sit comfortably with your knees apart, which most women find to be the easiest position. Then, gently insert your middle finger into your vagina until you feel a donut-shaped opening. If your finger isn't able to reach any further, you've reached your cervix. | Know where your cervix is located. The cervix is the lowermost part of the uterus, where it connects with the vaginal wall. It is located 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) inside the vagina, at the end of the vaginal tunnel. It is shaped like a small donut with a tiny hole in the center. The position and texture of the cervix change throughout the ovulation cycle. The inner canal of the cervix contains glands that secrete vaginal mucus. The color and texture of the mucus also change throughout the cycle. Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Since you'll be using your fingers to feel your cervix, it's important to wash your hands thoroughly to prevent transmitting bacteria to your reproductive system. Avoid using lotion or hand cream before feeling your cervix, since the ingredients in these products can lead to vaginal irritation or infections. If you have long nails, you might consider giving them a trim before feeling your cervix. A long, sharp nail could scratch your vagina. Get in a comfortable position. Most women find that a sitting position (rather than standing or lying down) allows for easy access to the cervix with a minimum of discomfort. Sit on the edge of your bed or bathtub with your knees apart. Insert your longest finger into your vagina. Gently move your finger into your vaginal opening and let it glide into your vagina. Depending on where you are in your ovulation cycle, your finger may reach several inches into your vagina before you feel your cervix. If you wish, you may lubricate your finger with a water-based lubricant to help it glide in more easily. Do not use petroleum jelly, lotion, or any other product not specifically labeled for use in the vagina. Feel for the cervix. The tip of your finger will touch the donut-shaped opening at the end of your vagina. You'll know it's your cervix if your finger isn't able to keep reaching further. The cervix may be soft, like pursed lips, or firm, like the tip of your nose, depending on whether or not you are ovulating. Determine whether your cervix is low or high. If your cervix is "low," meaning just a few inches from your vaginal opening, that means you probably aren't ovulating. If it's "high," located deep within the vagina, you may be ovulating. The first few times you feel your cervix, it will be difficult to determine whether it's high or low. Keep feeling every day over the course of a month or two, noting the differences in the position of your cervix from week to week. Eventually you'll be able to tell whether your cervix is low or high. Determine whether your cervix is firm or soft. If your cervix is firm and tight, you probably aren't ovulating. If it's soft and has some give, you may be ovulating. The texture of the cervix during ovulation has been described as feeling like a pair of lips. During other periods, before and after ovulation, it's more like the tip of your nose - slightly hard with less give. Determine whether your cervix is wet. During ovulation, the cervix will feel very wet with fluids, and you'll likely have an increased amount of vaginal discharge. After ovulation, the cervix will feel drier until menstruation occurs. Use other methods to verify whether you're ovulating. In addition to feeling your cervix, monitoring your cervical fluids and recording your basal temperature can help you figure out when you're ovulating. This combination of tracking methods is called fertility awareness, and done correctly, it's an effective way to determine when you are fertile. That said, it is not very effective if you want to prevent pregnancy. Just before and during ovulation, your vaginal fluid will become heavy and slippery. When ovulation occurs, your basal temperature will rise slightly. It's necessary to take your temperature using a basal thermometer every morning so that you catch the rise in temperature. Always use protection if you're looking to prevent pregnancy. | Know where your cervix is located. Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Get in a comfortable position. Insert your longest finger into your vagina. Feel for the cervix. Determine whether your cervix is low or high. Determine whether your cervix is firm or soft. Determine whether your cervix is wet. Use other methods to verify whether you're ovulating. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Quickly-Get-Rid-of-Bags-Under-Your-Eyes | How to Quickly Get Rid of Bags Under Your Eyes | To quickly get rid of bags under your eyes, hold a cold, damp washcloth over your eyes for 5 minutes, which will help reduce swelling. You can also chill a couple of spoons in the freezer and then hold them over the bags under your eyes for 15 minutes to reduce their appearance. If you have a little more time to spare, lie down and cover your eyes with chilled tea bags or cucumber slices for 30 minutes, which will make your eyes look fresh and alert. | Apply a cool compress. Soak a clean, soft washcloth in cool water, ringing out the excess once drenched. Gently press the washcloth beneath and around your eyes, making sure to cover the entire bagged area. Continue for about five minutes. Do this while sitting upright to encourage any pooled fluids beneath your eyes to drain. The cold compress--and other cooling techniques--work by constricting the blood vessels responsible for discoloration and swelling beneath the eye. Press a cold spoon against your eyes. Place four stainless steel spoons in a cold glass of ice water; allow them to chill for two to four minutes. Remove one spoon and carefully apply it to the swollen, dark circle beneath your eye, pressing lightly. Keep it there until the spoon warms to the temperature of your skin. Return the used spoon to the ice water and take out a new spoon. Repeat this process with the bag beneath your other eye. Continue as needed, swapping out warmed spoons for chilled ones, for anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how long it takes to reduce the appearance of both bags. Cover your eyes with cucumbers. Cut two 1/2-inch (1.25-cm) thick slices of refrigerated cucumber and place them over each closed eye, making sure to cover the affected area. Relax in an upright position with your head slightly back for about 25 minutes. Since cucumbers have a high water content, they're naturally cool and hydrating, making them surprisingly great at relieving swollen eyes. Cucumbers also contain quercetin, an antioxidant that blocks histamine, which may reduce bags under the eye caused by allergies. Use chilled tea bags. Dunk two tea bags in cold water, then place them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to get them even chillier. When they're ready, place the tea bags over closed eyes, covering the bagged area. Lie back with your head slightly elevated and continue treatment for 25 to 30 minutes. Afterward, wash your eyes and face with cool water and pat the skin dry. Avoid tea bags containing potent spices, like pepper or cinnamon, that may irritate your eyes. Chamomile tea and green tea have natural healing properties, making them ideal options. Caffeinated teas will also restrict the blood flow and relieve puffiness. Take an antihistamine. Allergies are one possible reason you might have bags under your eyes. If you're experiencing other allergy symptoms, taking an over-the-counter antihistamine might be a worthwhile option to consider. Similarly, puffy bags can develop beneath your eyes during a cold or sinus infection. Over-the-counter medications meant to treat these conditions may help reduce bags under the eyes, too. Flush out your sinuses. If sinus problems cause your puffy eyes but an antihistamine doesn't reduce those bags thoroughly enough, consider using a neti pot to flush out the extra fluid building up beneath your eyes. Dissolve 1/4 tsp (0.6 ml) finely ground non-ionized salt in 8 oz (250 ml) of warm water. Pour this solution into a clean neti pot, then tip your head to the side and use the neti pot to pour half the solution into one nostril. Tip your forehead lower to help the solution drain out of your other nostril. Repeat the same process using the other half of the solution, swapping sides to cleanse your sinus passages more thoroughly. You can also clear out your sinuses using a saline nasal spray. Apply eye cream. There are numerous eye creams formulated to help reduce puffy bags. Look for one that claims to be fast-acting for the quickest results. Retinol eye creams are a popular choice. While these creams work well in the long run by promoting collagen production, they may not provide immediate results. A better option for fast relief might be an eye cream with caffeine in it. Caffeine constricts the blood vessels responsible for inflammation and discoloration. Another possibility would be eye creams with Arnica, a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient. Stay hydrated. Make sure you're drinking the recommended eight 8-oz (250-ml) glasses of water per day. Puffiness beneath the eyes can be caused by water retention, but dehydration actually causes your body to retain more water. On a similar note, you should also cut back on foods and drinks that may worsen dehydration when dealing with bags beneath your eyes. This includes salty foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Remove any makeup. Before going to bed, thoroughly wash off any makeup you applied to your face earlier in the day. Eye makeup can cause your eyes to water while you sleep, which will increase the amount of puffiness you wake up with. If possible, try to use actual makeup remover to strip cosmetics from your skin before bed. Removers are specially formulated to cling to the makeup particles and lift them away, making them more effective than plain soap and water. If you don't have makeup remover, though, regular facial cleanser and plain water will still work. Just make sure that you keep washing until all eye makeup is completely gone. Sleep with your head elevated. Slide an extra pillow beneath your head before falling asleep. You could also prop up the head of your mattress or elevate the entire head of the bed. The main idea is simply to keep your head higher than the rest of your body. Keeping your head elevated should help drain excess blood, mucus, and other fluids away from your face, preventing them from pooling beneath your eyes and creating bags. Lay on your back. If you sleep on your stomach or your side, switch to sleeping on your back for the night. By keeping your eyes facing up, you allow gravity to pull excess fluid away from your eyes instead of letting it gather there. If you think you'll naturally roll back onto your stomach or side during the night, try wedging pillows on the other side of your body to help reduce the amount of tossing and turning you can do. Get enough sleep. Poor sleep is one of the better-known causes of bags beneath your eyes. Plan ahead when choosing your bedtime so that you can get about seven to eight hours of sleep before your alarm goes off the next morning. Sleep deprivation causes your body to release cortisol, the "stress hormone," which can cause the collagen in your skin to break down. This makes the skin beneath your eyes weaker and more prone to dark circles. Apply eye cream. Before applying any makeup, dab some eye cream over the bags. Give it a few minutes to dry before continuing. Choose an eye cream the moisturizes. For an added boost, consider one containing retinol or caffeine. Do not use eye cream if you're prone to getting styes. Regardless of the type you choose, the eye cream will help moisturize the skin and fill in any fine lines that could otherwise trap cosmetics. Cover the area with concealer. Lightly apply concealer that matches your skin tone over the bags beneath your eyes. Use the applicator or a brush to pat it on, but avoid rubbing it into the skin since doing so could cause further irritation For best results, choose a lightweight concealer with a creamy texture. Heavier concealers can sink into the fine lines beneath your eyes and highlight skin damage. Avoid using your fingers when applying concealer since doing so increases the risk of applying too much. A small, flat brush is your best option. Carefully sweep on some bronzer. While only optional, adding a bronzer to your cheeks can help minimize the appearance of swollen bags beneath your eyes. Apply the bronzer to your cheeks and blend it upward to the area just beneath your eyes using a standard powder brush. The contrast created by the bronzer can help minimize the appearance of bags without covering them directly. Avoid bronzers with shimmer, however, since these can actually highlight bags. Use a light-colored eyeliner on your lower lid. Pick a white, cream, or light nude color and apply it to the inside of your lower lid. It will help your eyes look brighter, you'll seem more awake, and it will distract attention away from your bags. Top the area with powder. Use a brush with splayed bristles to lightly dust loose, translucent powder beneath your eyes and over your cheeks. The powder should help set your makeup and prevent it from gathering in the creases and fine lines of the skin around your eyes. | Apply a cool compress. Press a cold spoon against your eyes. Cover your eyes with cucumbers. Use chilled tea bags. Take an antihistamine. Flush out your sinuses. Apply eye cream. Stay hydrated. Remove any makeup. Sleep with your head elevated. Lay on your back. Get enough sleep. Apply eye cream. Cover the area with concealer. Carefully sweep on some bronzer. Use a light-colored eyeliner on your lower lid. Top the area with powder. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Bromeliad | How to Care for a Bromeliad | To care for an indoor bromeliad, plant it in a plastic pot, which will help the soil retain moisture. Then, place your bromeliad in a warm, shaded spot that receives plenty of indirect sunlight. You should also water your plant whenever the top 2 inches of soil are dry, but be careful not to overwater it since bromeliads are more tolerant of dry conditions. Also, avoid fertilizing your bromeliad since they're generally slow-growing plants that can't handle a lot of fertilizer. | Attempt to identify your bromeliad. There are thousands of species of bromeliads, and different varieties grow best in different levels of sunlight, temperature, and humidity. If you purchased your bromeliad from a nursery, the employees there should be able to tell you the exact genus and which environment to put it in. A gardener, botanist, or bromeliad identification book could also help, especially if you know the region your plant is native to. Visit an online photo gallery of bromeliads to see if you can narrow yours down to a specific genus. Searching for that genus name should be enough to provide the basic care information you need. If you can get an exact species identification, search online for the name of that species to learn more specific information about temperature, soil, etc. If you can get a genus identification but not a specific species name, which is common, follow the general guidelines on this chart. If multiple boxes are checked in one category, follow whichever one matches the guidelines below, as that should work for the largest number of bromeliad species. If you can't identify your bromeliad at all, follow the advice below for the most common successful care methods. Monitor your plant closely and use the Troubleshooting Guide to alter your care if the plant appears unhealthy. Learn which type of planting material to use. Most bromeliads suffer in ordinary soil or potting soil, since it collects too much water and rots the root system. It's better to use specific potting mixes designed for bromeliads, or to create your own to match the plant. Identify your bromeliad's needs using these simple methods: If your plant is labeled "air bromeliad", "air plant", "tillandsia", "epiphytic", or "non terrestrial", it grows on other plants instead of in soil. These plants are sold attached to a piece of wood, by themselves, or in a pot containing only dry bark or rocks. Skip to the section Caring for Air Bromeliads If your plant is a "terrestrial" variety, or if it looks similar to a pineapple, grass, or succulent, it requires a mix that can hold a little more moisture than other bromeliad varieties. The soil should still be on the fast-draining side as far as ordinary potting mixes go, so use a variety specially for bromeliads or mix 2 parts ordinary potting mix with 1 part perlite or sand. You can also use a mix designed for cacti and succulents. If your plant's leaves from a central cup or cylinder for holding water, or if the plant has no clear identifying characteristics, use a coarsely packed, well draining potting mix. Purchase one specially made for bromeliads, or mix your own with equal parts pine bark nuggets (or mulch), perlite, and soil-less professional potting mix. The end result should moisten quickly but drain well. Look up year round temperature and humidity if planting your bromeliad outdoors. If you live in an area with 50–75% humidity and no frost, you should be able to keep your bromeliad outdoors year round. Most bromeliads originated in the tropics and are happiest in daytime temperatures between 75º and 90ºF (24–32ºC). Occasional, brief variations outside these temperatures and cooler nights shouldn't harm your plants. If you can't find your area's humidity on the weather report, follow these linked instructions to calculate it yourself. If your area's outdoor conditions fit the bill most of the year but not in winter, plant the bromeliad in a buried container. Before the frost hits, dig up the container for an easy move indoors. If you don't know the exact species and maximum size, use a bigger container than you think you need to be on the safe side. If your plant was sold with an identification tag or care guide, it may specify different temperatures that better match the specific species. If planting indoors, use a plastic pot unless the area is unusually humid. A plastic pot will hold moisture for longer periods, which is important in heated or dry homes. If your indoor environment is typically quite humid, use a ceramic pot instead. Remember to place a high-lipped saucer beneath the pot, or something else that will catch the excess water when it drains. Place in an area of indirect sunlight. Almost all varieties of bromeliad are tropical, and thrive in warm but shaded areas. Even if you don't know the name of your species, your plant may contain clues to give you more detailed information: If the plant has thick, gray-green leaves, it grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. Plant it somewhere it will receive light without being directly exposed to the sun's rays, such as indoors near an east-facing window or outdoors in mottled or mild shade. Thin, green leaves should be kept in low indirect sunlight. Plant this somewhere dim, such as beneath a tree that provides significant shading, or indoors near a north-facing window (south-facing if you live in the Southern Hemisphere). Full, direct sunlight should only used on a minority of desert-dwelling species, and most of these are air bromeliads, not terrestrial ones. If you're not certain of your identification, stick with indirect sunlight. Moisten around the base of plants in soil or potting mix. Do not water excessively; bromeliads can handle dry conditions much better than soaked roots. Only water once the top two inches (5 cm) are dry, and drain any excess water. Never use a metal watering can to water bromeliads. Many varieties cannot handle the trace amounts of metal that enter the water. If planted indoors, it may be a good idea to flush salt buildups from the soil by watering the plant until the water comes through the drainage holes. Only do this if your plant is in quick-draining soil that does not stay soaked for long. Mist the bromeliad daily using a spray bottle filled with water. Fill the tank of the plant with distilled water if it has one. Many bromeliads have a cup or cylinder in the center of their leaves, intended for catching rainwater. If one is present, keep it filled with rainwater or distilled water rather than tap water, especially if your tap water is hard. Every week, empty the tank of water and debris by gently turning the plant over the sink. Replace it with fresh water to reduce the risk of rot. If your pipes, dishes, or sink regularly get crusted with a mineral deposit, usually white, your tap water is "hard" and should not be used for this purpose. Never get water on the surface of a plant during periods of direct or high temperature sun, especially the late morning and early afternoon. The heated water can burn your plant. Fertilize only when necessary and do so carefully. Bromeliads are slow growing plants, and cannot make use of fertilizers at the same rate many plants can. Overusing fertilizer can make extra-long, thin leaves without improving useful growth, or diminish the plant's color, so be careful and follow these steps to fertilize properly: Fertilizer should not be used on indoor plants, or during the winter months. Fertilizer works best on grass-like bromeliads or on adult bromeliads you are trying to encourage to bloom. Never apply fertilizer directly to the plant or into the central water tank between the leaves. This can burn the bromeliad. Plants with central water tanks should have their tank emptied and refilled every couple months to reduce rot, but they do lose nutrients this way. Place a small amount of slow-acting, time-release fertilizer around the base of the plant after emptying the tank. Harvest young plants from your bromeliad once the bloom dies. Bromeliads typically only flower once in their lives, then die, but their lifespan may cover several years before this happens. Before it dies, it should produce the buds of new plants called "pups", usually within or under the base of the lowest leaves. Once the pup has had six months to grow, or the mother plant begins to die, cut them off near the base with a sharp, disinfected knife and plant one in its own pot. Disinfect the knife by rubbing the blade thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. This can also be used to remove unsightly dead flowers, or brightly colored flower-supporting structures. Try not to cut too close to the main plant. Understand how air bromeliads work. If your plant is an air bromeliad, you probably purchased it attached to driftwood or another object, placed in a pot that contained pure bark or rocks instead of soil or potting mix, or by itself with no attachment at all. These plants draw moisture and nutrients from the air around them. They are especially hardy compared to other bromeliads, but you should keep an eye out to deal with problems early. Plant in dry bark or attach to any hard object. Most air bromeliads cannot draw moisture or nutrients through the roots at all, and only need to be placed in dry bark so it has crevices to attach to and hold itself upright. Smaller varieties can even be attached to driftwood, pebbles, or other objects. Before placing on object under your bromeliad, if you suspect it has been exposed to saltwater, immerse the object in distilled water or rainwater for two weeks, changing the water frequently. Some bromeliads sold as air bromeliads may have more extensive root systems, either because they are larger and require more support, or because they can draw moisture from both air and water. Plant these in a mix of 1 part perlite and 2 parts bromeliad potting mix, and occasionally moisten around the base of the plant if the leaves look dry. Place in bright indirect sunlight or full sun. Air bromeliads tend to originate in desert environments and can take more sunlight than other varieties, but this is not true of every species. Keep it in front of an east- or north-facing window for indirect sunlight, or move it to a west- or south-facing window for full sun and keep a close eye out for dry leaves. Most air bromeliads are small and thus make easy indoor plants, but they can be kept outside. They tend to be hardier than other varieties, but will do best in warm weather and should be brought inside before the frost hits. If you are in the Southern Hemisphere, the south-facing window will get indirect sunlight, and the north-facing one receives direct sunlight. You may also need to adjust to a different window if there are hills or a mountain slope nearby. See Troubleshooting for signs your plant has too little or too much sun exposure. Mist the plant every few days. Air bromeliads require extra moisture from the air. Use a spray bottle to mist the surface of the plant once every few days. It may require misting daily or every other day if kept in an arid indoor environment or during a dry season. Do not water the base of the plant unless another step tells you to in specific situations. Air bromeliads do not primarily use its roots to draw up water, and standing water could cause them to rot. Use distilled or bottled water in the sprayer for the best results. Fertilize sparingly with diluted liquid fertilizer (optional). Bromeliads grow slowly and do not typically require fertilizer. If you want to encourage blooming or rapid growth, you can attempt to fertilize it infrequently, no more than once every two weeks at the very most. Air plants can only be fertilized using liquid fertilizer, since they do not draw nutrients through their roots. Always dilute one part liquid fertilizer with one to three parts water before spraying. Move buds to their own area once the plant's flowers begin to fade. When your bromeliad eventually flowers, which can take years and last several months, it will produce "pups", or young buds. Use a disinfected knife to cut off dead flowers or spiky flower-supporting structures when they become unattractive, and to remove the buds when they have grown for several months or the plant begins to die. Disinfect the blade with rubbing alcohol before cutting and take care not to injure the main plant body. Move the plant to an area of more sunlight if the leaves become larger and greener. These are signs that the plant is trying to make up for insufficient sunlight. Don't move it straight to direct sunlight, since that damages most bromeliads. Move to an area of sunnier, mottled shade or nearer a window that receives indirect sunlight first. Move it again if the leaves don't correct themselves in a couple weeks. Move the plant out of sunlight if it withers or if colors fade. Move your bromeliad to a shader area of your yard, or place it further from windows that receive direct sunlight. Make a more drastic change in sunlight conditions if the sun is burning brown holes onto the leaves. If your plant should be able to withstand more sunlight according to a label or expert, it may have been cared for improperly by the previous owners. Acclimate it to the correct conditions by periodically moving it to a slightly brighter area. Increase the humidity if the soil won't stay moist or the leaf tips turn brown. If the leaf size and overall colors haven't changed, but you notice one of these problems, the sunlight is probably fine but the plant needs more water: Mist the bromeliad every day when it's not exposed to direct sunlight. Keep the central cup of the plant full of water if one is present. Plant other plants a short distance from your bromeliad. Each plant raises the humidity in its immediate area. Run a humidifier in the same room as your plant, or create your own non-powered humidifier by placing pebbles in a tray and filling it with water to just below the surface of the rocks. Rehydrate dry or withered leaves of an air bromeliad. If you have an "air plant" with no soil to draw water from, you should be misting it every few days. To repair the dried out leaves immediately, immerse the air plant in water for a few minutes, then hold upside and check to make sure all the water drains out from between the leaves. Trapped water pockets can cause rot. Change your caring methods if you notice white buildup near the base of the leaves. This is a sign of too much mineral buildup. Take these steps to remove the problem and deal with the immediate issue: Use rainwater or distilled water instead of tap water to care for your bromeliad. Pour water over the plant or into the central cup until the pot drains or the soil is good and moist. This flushes out the excess minerals, but should be done sparingly since it can cause the roots to rot. Turn small indoor plants upside down over the sink afterward to help them drain. Stop using fertilizer, or at least dilute it to half the strength you're currently using. Treat round dots or white patches that result from pest attacks. The most common pests are scale and mealybugs, which create the described appearance. Wipe a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol over the affected area every day or two until it subsides. For widespread or persistent outbreaks, mix baby shampoo or mild dishwashing detergent with water and spray onto the plants to suffocate the insects. Rinse the plant shortly afterward to maintain the leaves' access to air. If you are forced to resort to insecticides, avoid thick or oil-based ones which can suffocate the plant. Bromeliads rely on their leaves to draw in some nutrients and water, so only use insecticides as a last resort. | Attempt to identify your bromeliad. Learn which type of planting material to use. Look up year round temperature and humidity if planting your bromeliad outdoors. If planting indoors, use a plastic pot unless the area is unusually humid. Place in an area of indirect sunlight. Moisten around the base of plants in soil or potting mix. Fill the tank of the plant with distilled water if it has one. Fertilize only when necessary and do so carefully. Harvest young plants from your bromeliad once the bloom dies. Understand how air bromeliads work. Plant in dry bark or attach to any hard object. Place in bright indirect sunlight or full sun. Mist the plant every few days. Fertilize sparingly with diluted liquid fertilizer (optional). Move buds to their own area once the plant's flowers begin to fade. Move the plant to an area of more sunlight if the leaves become larger and greener. Move the plant out of sunlight if it withers or if colors fade. Increase the humidity if the soil won't stay moist or the leaf tips turn brown. Rehydrate dry or withered leaves of an air bromeliad. Change your caring methods if you notice white buildup near the base of the leaves. Treat round dots or white patches that result from pest attacks. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Kite | How to Make a Kite | To make a kite, first you'll need 2 wooden dowels that are less than 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter and about 40 inches (100 cm) long. Cut one of the dowels so it's about 6 inches (15 cm) shorter than the other one. Then, lay the longer dowel down on a flat surface, and place the shorter dowel on top of it about 4 inches (12.5 cm) above the midpoint so they're perpindicular. Wrap string around the point where the 2 dowels meet, and use hot glue to cover the string and seal the 2 dowels together. Wait a few minutes for the hot glue to dry. Next, cut a notch in the end of each dowel using a small knife. Run a long length of string around the ends of the dowels to connect the 4 ends. Use the notches you cut to keep the string in place. Pull the string tight so it's taut, then tie the 2 ends into a knot. Cut off the excess string with scissors. Now, lay your frame on top of a garbage bag or sheet of thin plastic, and outline the frame with a marker. Set the frame aside, and cut around the outline you drew, adding 2 inches (5 cm) to each side as you cut. Then, lay the frame on top of the sheet you've cut, and line the inside of each dowel with hot glue. Fold the excess plastic over the dowel and press it into the hot glue. Next, tie a piece of string to the end of one of the dowels. Run the other end of the string to the opposite end of the dowel and tie it there. Repeat this process with the other dowel and a second piece of string. Finally, tie the 2 lengths of string to a third piece of string at the junction where the 2 strings meet to make your brindle and line. | Make a lowercase T-shape with your sticks. Take the 20 in (51 cm) stick and put it across the 24 in (61 cm) stick so it looks like a lowercase T. These sticks will make up the frame for your kite. If you want to make a larger kite, use longer sticks. Just make sure the horizontal stick is at least 4 inches (10 cm) shorter than the vertical stick. Attach the 2 sticks together with string and glue. Wrap twine around the 2 pieces in the middle 1-2 times. Then, tie the string or twine with a small knot and trim off the excess string with scissors. You can also put a dab of super glue between the 2 pieces and press them together at the joint so they are extra secure. Make sure the sticks form a right angle to each other when they're attached. The horizontal stick should be positioned straight across the vertical stick. Make 1 to 2 in (2.5 to 5.1 cm) horizontal notches at the end of each stick. Use scissors to make 1 notch at the end of each stick. These notches should run horizontally, or across the width of the stick. Make them deep enough to fit the string you are going to use to attach the sail. If you're using very thin sticks and string, you can poke holes into the ends of the sticks instead of making notches. Stretch the string around the frame. Loop the string around the top notch on the frame, wrapping it once around the stick. Then, pull the string through the notch on the right end of the frame. Stretch the string to the notch at the bottom end of the frame and then through the left end of the frame. Finally, wrap the string 1-2 times around the top end of the frame. Remove any excess string with scissors. Double-check that the string is taut but not too tight to prevent the sticks from bending or warping. The string will help the frame retain its shape as your kite soars through the air. Use a plastic bag, paper, or fabric that is 40 inches (100 cm) wide for the sail. You can get creative here. A large, white garbage bag is a great option, since it will be durable and easy to decorate. Or you can use strong white contact paper or newspaper. Fabric can also work for the sail in a pinch, though it should be thick and sturdy so the sail is strong. Lay the frame on the sail. Spread the material you're using for the sail flat on the ground. Then, place the frame in the center of the sail. Outline the frame with a ruler. Place the ruler on the top of the frame and then down the end of the stick on the right side of the frame. Use a pen or pencil to draw a diagonal line from the top end to the end of the stick on the right, using the ruler as a guide. Do this again from the right end to the bottom end of the frame as well as from the bottom end to the left end. Finish by drawing a diagonal line from the left end up to the top end of the frame. When you're finished, you should have a diamond shape on the sail, with the frame in the middle of the diamond. Cut the diamond 2 inches (5.1 cm) wider than the outline. Use scissors to cut out the diamond, leaving a bit of space around the outline so you can wrap the sail to the frame easily. You should now have a nice, clean diamond sail that can fit snugly over the frame. Fold the edge of the sail over the frame and glue and tape it down. Run a thin line of super glue on the frame and press the edge of the sail on the frame to keep it in place. You can also use masking tape or electrical tape to secure the sail to the frame, taping the edge onto the inside of the sail. Check that the sail sits tightly over the frame—you don't want it to come loose in the air! Attach the flying line. Use string that is at least 20 inches (51 cm) long for the flying line. Poke a small hole right above where the 2 sticks meet with scissors. The hole should be big enough to fit the flying line. Then, pull one end of the flying line through the hole and tie it tightly around the cross point. Let the flying line hang down freely while you finish the rest of the kite. You can then add string to the flying line to make it longer based on your arm length and height. Sometimes, adding more string to the flying line can also help the kite to fly straighter. Make a kite tail with a 6 ft (1.8 m) long piece of thick string. Attach the tail to the bottom end of the frame, looping it over the frame several times and tying it tightly. Use thick string or a strip of cloth for the tail. Pick a string or cloth color that matches the color of your sail so your kite looks pretty in the air. Attach pieces of cloth or ribbon to the tail at 1 foot (0.30 m) intervals. Use pieces that are 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) long. Tie them onto the tail with a small knot, allowing them to dangle down off the string. The cloth or ribbon pieces will help the tail stay balanced and ensure the kite flies straight. Decorate the kite with markers or colored paper. This is the fun part! Get creative by writing inspirational words or phrases on your kite with markers. You can also color your kite with markers, creating a fun pattern like stripes or dots. Try gluing shapes made from colored paper, like swirls, triangles, or circles, onto the sail. You could write your name on the kite so you can see your name flying in the air. Try out the kite in a spot with no trees or power lines. Look for an area close to a body of water like a lake or the ocean, as it will have good winds for kite flying. Hold tight to the kite string and run in the direction of the wind. Then, release the kite as you are running, pushing it upward into the wind. Use the flying line to keep the kite in the air. | Make a lowercase T-shape with your sticks. Attach the 2 sticks together with string and glue. Make 1 to 2 in (2.5 to 5.1 cm) horizontal notches at the end of each stick. Stretch the string around the frame. Use a plastic bag, paper, or fabric that is 40 inches (100 cm) wide for the sail. Lay the frame on the sail. Outline the frame with a ruler. Cut the diamond 2 inches (5.1 cm) wider than the outline. Fold the edge of the sail over the frame and glue and tape it down. Attach the flying line. Make a kite tail with a 6 ft (1.8 m) long piece of thick string. Attach pieces of cloth or ribbon to the tail at 1 foot (0.30 m) intervals. Decorate the kite with markers or colored paper. Try out the kite in a spot with no trees or power lines. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Cuttings | How to Take Cuttings | To take cuttings, start by choosing your best and healthiest plants to take cuttings from, since the cuttings will be clones of those plants. Select healthy stems with young, green growth, measure about 5-10 cm of stem for each cutting, and snip just below the nodes with sterilized scissors. Remove the lower leaves of each cutting, leaving 1 or 2 pairs of leaves near the top, then put the cuttings in a plastic bag with a few drops of water so the stems won't wilt while you work! | Survey your garden for potential stock or “mother” plants. In the spring or early summer, start looking for plants that have plenty of new growth. You'll want to take cuttings from these plants because there will be a few different stems for you to pick from. New growth is generally easier to propagate than older growth because it has more “growing” cells that are reproducing rapidly. Visit a nursery if you don't currently have a garden. If you're just starting your garden and don't have any stock plants, visit a local nursery and ask if you'd be able to take a few cuttings of larger plants. Most of the time they'll let you if you take a small amount. If you have friends, family, or neighbors growing the types of plants you want to propagate, you can always ask them for cuttings, too. Be very careful when transporting your cuttings. Place them in a plastic bag with a few drops of water or wrap the ends in a damp paper towel. Then put the bag in a box to prevent any bumping or crushing of the nodes. Select a stock plant to cut from. The plant should be large and healthy, so that cutting off a small amount won't cause it to die. It should also be free from pests, and non-flowering during the time of year that you're taking your cuttings. It's best to gather cuttings earlier in the morning when the plants are full of water. It will make it easier to cut and they'll be more likely to maintain their water when propagated. Select a healthy stem with new growth. When selecting a stem, you should look for young, green growth, as they have a better chance for taking roots when planted. Select a piece of stem with a few leaves on it. You want to be sure you're able to identify the nodes, which are places where a leaf meets the stem. Measure the stem out to 5 to 10 centimetres (2.0 to 3.9 in) long. You'll want to have enough length on the stem to plant it deeply within the soil so that it can form roots. It should have a few sets of leaves located along the stem. Cut below a node with a sharp pair of sterilized scissors. Once you've measured the stem, cut just below a node. The node will look like a knob in the stem where it connects to the rest of the plant. Make sure the node is still on the cutting. Avoid handling the cutting by its stem or node by gently holding onto one of the lower leaves. You can sterilize scissors by wiping them with rubbing alcohol. This is to prevent contamination of the cells located at the node. Remove the lower leaves of the plant, leaving 1 or 2 pairs at the top. While the new plant needs leaves to provide energy through photosynthesis, too many leaves will compete with the plant's efforts to send out new roots. Lower leaves will touch the soil and likely cause the cutting to rot, so they can be removed. Gather your cuttings in a plastic bag containing a few drops of water. By doing so, you can prevent them from wilting while you work. This is especially important for cuttings taken outside, because the sun can cause them to lose water quickly when removed from their plant. Fill a drainable container with potting soil. Potting mix, which is often a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, will generally yield better results for potted plants because of its superior drainage. If your container doesn't have drainage holes, you can drill 3-4 of them into the bottom of the container. You can also find soil specifically for cuttings at most home improvement stores. Water the soil in the container before you plant the cuttings. This is to make sure the cuttings have water available immediately once they are in their container. Water until the soil is moist, but not soaked. Use a pencil or a chopstick to make holes in the soil. Creating a hole before you insert your cutting ensures your cutting won't be bent or snapped when it's inserted into the soil. You can also use a knitting needle or your own finger if you don't have a pencil or a chopstick. Insert cuttings into their individual holes. Ensure that the leaves are not buried, and that the plant is stable enough to stand upright. It's best to plant just below a leaf break, where two leaves shoot off in opposite directions. You can plant several cuttings in a single container, but be careful not to overcrowd the pot. For a medium-sized container about 8 inches (20 cm) across, 5-6 cuttings will fill the pot with enough room to grow. Cover the container with a plastic bag to seal in moisture. Place the pot with your cuttings into a large, clear plastic bag, secure the bag with a rubber band. Place the pot away from the window in an area that gets plenty of sunlight, so that moisture becomes trapped in the bag for the plants to use for photosynthesis. Be sure to cut small holes or leave part of the bag outside of the rubber band to allow air to flow. Water and monitor your cuttings. Make sure the soil in the container is moist, but not soaked, at all times. Don't let the soil dry out. Regularly check the bottom of the container for any roots. If any of them begin to look unhealthy, remove them from the container. Transplant cuttings to individual containers when roots become visible. Check the drainage holes at the bottom of the container for visible roots once per week. Once the cuttings are growing rapidly or roots appear at the bottom of the container, you can dig up and transplant each cutting to separate containers. When transplanting, be gentle when lifting the plant from the container, preserving as many roots as possible. Add more potting soil to the new container and place it in a sunny area. Transplant again when the roots fill the pot. | Survey your garden for potential stock or “mother” plants. Visit a nursery if you don't currently have a garden. Select a stock plant to cut from. Select a healthy stem with new growth. Measure the stem out to 5 to 10 centimetres (2.0 to 3.9 in) long. Cut below a node with a sharp pair of sterilized scissors. Remove the lower leaves of the plant, leaving 1 or 2 pairs at the top. Gather your cuttings in a plastic bag containing a few drops of water. Fill a drainable container with potting soil. Water the soil in the container before you plant the cuttings. Use a pencil or a chopstick to make holes in the soil. Insert cuttings into their individual holes. Cover the container with a plastic bag to seal in moisture. Water and monitor your cuttings. Transplant cuttings to individual containers when roots become visible. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Return-Address | How to Write a Return Address | To write a return address on an envelope or package, start by writing your full name on a label or the back of your envelope. If you're sending a business letter or package, write your company name underneath that. Underneath, write your street address. Then, add your city and zip code on the next line. If you're sending a letter or package internationally, add your country at the bottom. Once you've written out your address, affix it to top left corner of your package or the back of your envelope. You should also write “From” above your address so it's clear this is the return address. | Write your first and last name on the top line. Writing your name on the return address will let the recipient know who sent the mail. This is especially important if you're sending the mail from work or an apartment complex, where there could be a variety of senders. For example, the first line of the return address should look like: Jerry Sullivan Write your business name if you’re sending a business letter. Include your business's name on the second line. This will help mail employees return the letter to the correct building. Your envelope would look something like: Jerry Sullivan AWS Industries If it's a personal letter or package, you don't need to include a business name. Include the street address on the next line. The second thing that the mail sorting machine reads is the street address. Include all of the numbers in the address and make sure it's spelled correctly. Your return address should look something like: Jerry Sullivan AWSIndustries 123 Apple Street Add the city, state, and zip code where you live on the bottom line. Include this information on the very bottom line. There's no need for any punctuation in between any of the information and you can abbreviate the state with its official 2-letter abbreviation. The completed return address should look something like: Jerry Sullivan AWS Industries 123 Apple Street Philadelphia PA 19147 When you write an address, you should usually add a comma between the city and state. However, the United States Postal Service advises you to leave out all punctuation on letters and packages because it could interfere with their letter reading hardware. Write your country name if you're sending an international letter. Including the country will let the post service know whether the package or letter is international or domestic. If you're sending the letter or package to a different country but don't include this, they will look for an address within the country that you're currently in. The return address for an international letter or package should look something like: Jerry Sullivan AWS Industries 123 Apple Street Philadelphia PA 19147 USA Place the return address on the top left of envelopes. Print your name in large legible letters on the first line in the top left corner of the envelope. Placing it in a different location on the envelope may confuse the post office. Write the return address on top left of a label if you’re sending a package. The address label can usually be found on the front or back of the package. Some labels will have “From:” written on the top left of the label. This is where you write your return address. You write the recipient's address information on the “To:” line of the label. Write the return address on the back flap for formal invitations. Traditionally, letters or invitations for formal gatherings like a wedding or graduation are centered on the back flap of the letter. This makes the front of the letter look less cluttered and more professional or formal. This practice, although common, is now discouraged by the USPS because of the way that they typically scan letters. Use large, capital letters if you’re writing the letter by hand. Write in print rather than cursive if you're writing the return address by hand. Using all capital letters will prevent the mail service from misreading the address and returning the package or letter to the wrong place. Cursive may confuse some postal workers and cause them to return the letter to the wrong place. Use a simple, size 10 font if you’re typing the return address. If you're using a label or printing the return address out, use at least size 10 font. If you can, make the address even larger if it fits on the label or envelope. Don't use a font that's hard to read when writing the return address. Use a return address when sending something via priority mail. Priority mail requires that you include a return address. Priority mail also comes with its own benefits, like being able to track the package. | Write your first and last name on the top line. Write your business name if you’re sending a business letter. Include the street address on the next line. Add the city, state, and zip code where you live on the bottom line. Write your country name if you're sending an international letter. Place the return address on the top left of envelopes. Write the return address on top left of a label if you’re sending a package. Write the return address on the back flap for formal invitations. Use large, capital letters if you’re writing the letter by hand. Use a simple, size 10 font if you’re typing the return address. Use a return address when sending something via priority mail. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sober-Up-Fast | How to Sober Up Fast | If you need to sober up fast, stop drinking alcohol immediately, since it takes your body an hour to process each drink you've had. You should also drink a glass of water for every drink you've had to dilute the alcohol. To combat the alcohol's effects, eat some light snacks, like peanuts or crackers. Once you've got food and water in your system, take a 30-minute nap, since rest is crucial when you need to sober up. Remember to avoid common mistakes when trying to feel sober, like taking a cold shower or drinking coffee, because these methods may make you feel more alert but won't reduce the effects of alcohol. | Stop drinking immediately. Do this once you realize you are getting a little more drunk than you wanted to. Put whatever drink you have in your hand down. It takes your body one hour to process every drink you consume. So if you have consumed two or three drinks in an hour, then it will take two to three hours for your body to process it completely. Drink water. Ask the bartender for a full glass of water, or make your way to the bar's water cooler. It is recommended that you drink a cup of water (240 ml) for every alcoholic drink you consume. Follow up each drink you have with a cup of water before you move onto another one. Additionally, before you lay down to go to bed, drink another full glass of water. Because frequent trips to the bathroom can deplete your body's salt content, try adding a pinch of salt to your glass of water. Snack on peanuts and crackers. Many bars provide free snacks that are kept on the counter for customers. If you're drinking somewhere where light snacks are available, take advantage of the opportunity to get some food into your stomach. If you consume light snacks while you are drinking, you won't get as intoxicated as you would otherwise. Stay away from big, heavy, greasy meals, as this may make you sick. Take a quick 30-minute nap. Because time is the only real cure for sobering up, rest is a great way to sober up quickly. Once you have food and water in your system, set your alarm for 30 minutes and take a nap. Avoid cold showers. A cold shower will make you feel more alert, but it will not minimize the effects of alcohol. On the contrary, a cold shower may send your body into shock if you are severely intoxicated or have alcohol poisoning. Limit your coffee intake. A cup of coffee may make you feel more awake and alert, so it may be beneficial to drink one cup. However, avoid having a lot of coffee, as this may dehydrate you. Contrary to popular belief, coffee does not sober you up or reduce the level of alcohol in your blood. Refrain from forcing yourself to vomit. This tactic will not work very well unless you do it immediately after taking a shot. Once the alcohol is absorbed into your system, i.e., when you feel buzzed, it is too late. At this point you are only doing your body a disservice since vomiting depletes your body and adds to dehydration. If you really need to, don't resist the urge to vomit. This is your body's way of trying to get rid of the alcohol. As a safety precaution, ask a friend to stay with you if you vomit so that they can make sure you don't fall and hurt yourself as a result of dizziness. Eat foods high in carbs. Before you begin drinking is when you should eat foods high in carbs. Once you start drinking, the carbs will help soak up excess alcohol. Dairy products and foods high in natural fats are also great because they coat the lining of your stomach. This helps slow the absorption of alcohol into your system. Examples of things to eat before you drink are pasta, falafel, a burger or sandwich, pizza, or avocados. Limit your drinking. Try to limit yourself to a set number of drinks. This way you can avoid over drinking. One way to do this is to bring a set amount of cash with you to the bar. This way you can avoid buying too many drinks. You can also let the bartender know ahead of time that you don't want to drink too much, or order a couple of non-alcoholic beverages throughout the night. You can also practice self-restraint and tell yourself that you will only have three or four drinks throughout the night. Do this by taking 30-minute water breaks in between drinks. Keep track of how many drinks you've had by asking the server or bartender to not remove your empty glasses. Before you start drinking, consider asking a friend if they can let you know once you've finished a certain number of drinks. Avoid mixing drinks. Try to avoid mixing beer with liquor, especially if you have already consumed beer first. Also try to avoid mixing different liquors together like vodka, rum and whiskey, for example. Instead, keep it consistent with clear or dark liquor, beer, or wine. Additionally, clear liquor, like vodka and gin, is much easier on your body than dark liquor like whiskey and bourbon. Drink only beer. It typically takes the longest amount of time to get drunk on beer. This is because it has a high fluid volume than other alcoholic beverages. If you're trying to get less intoxicated, commit to only drinking beer for the evening. | Stop drinking immediately. Drink water. Snack on peanuts and crackers. Take a quick 30-minute nap. Avoid cold showers. Limit your coffee intake. Refrain from forcing yourself to vomit. Eat foods high in carbs. Limit your drinking. Avoid mixing drinks. Drink only beer. |
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