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https://www.wikihow.com/Draw-a-Pineapple | How to Draw a Pineapple | To draw a pineapple, start by drawing an oval that's thinner at the top than at the bottom. Then, draw the spiky leaves of the pineapple at the top of the oval. Next, draw curved diagonal lines going across the oval that are evenly spaced apart. Now do the same thing again but going the other way to create diamond shapes on the pineapple. Finally, add dots to the center of each diamond to represent the fruit's spikes. | Get a sheet of any paper you want and a pencil/pen. Draw an egg shape. In other words, draw an oval that is thinner at the top than at the bottom. Make leafy shapes at top of oval to signal where the pineapple fruit and stem/leaves connect. Draw a jagged stem coming up from the leafy shapes on the pineapple. Add leaves to it if wanted. Draw diagonal going lines down the fruit. Make them evenly spaced apart. Draw diagonal going lines criss-crossing the other lines on the fruit. This should make little diamond shapes. Add small dots to the center of each diamond to represent the spikes on the fruit. If wanted, add background and/or setting. Finished. | Get a sheet of any paper you want and a pencil/pen. Draw an egg shape. Make leafy shapes at top of oval to signal where the pineapple fruit and stem/leaves connect. Draw a jagged stem coming up from the leafy shapes on the pineapple. Draw diagonal going lines down the fruit. Draw diagonal going lines criss-crossing the other lines on the fruit. Add small dots to the center of each diamond to represent the spikes on the fruit. If wanted, add background and/or setting. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Chip-a-Golf-Ball | How to Chip a Golf Ball | To chip a golf ball, start by swinging back with your full upper body, as opposed to your wrists. Then, swing downward so the initial contact with the ball is a downward strike. Next, once you've made contact with the ball, immediately raise the club so you're scooping up the ball and helping it escape the grass. Finally, follow through with your swing using your upper body. | Align the ball with your sternum. Much of a good chip in golf revolves around proper stance and positioning. You should aim your body slightly ahead of the ball, with your sternum drawing a parallel line with the location of the ball. The sternum refers to the middle of one's chest. Keep your chest up. Keep your arms back and your chest up throughout the course of your swing. Arching your chest will result in a skewed chip because it will change direction of the club. If you're having any difficulty with achieving a proper stance, get someone else to watch you. Place your feet closely together. Your feet should be planted firmly on the ground while you execute a chip. There should be a space between your feet roughly equivalent to one of your feet. Your feet should be parallel with one another, both aimed directly forward. Open up your hip. A proper swing will disperse the exertion throughout your upper body, rather than packing the strain into one area. Letting your hip on the other side of the club move around will take some of the stress off your wrists. Swing with your full upper body. Use your entire upper body to facilitate the chip. Avoid swinging with your wrists, as this movement will limit your force and control. Swing so that you're able to feel the movement in your hips. While your upper body should be limber throughout the movement, keep your feet and legs relatively stable. Swing downward. Your initial contact with the ball should be in a downward strike. The most common mistake beginners make is to hit up. Rather, the first part of a successful chip swing will aim down, only moving up once the club makes contact with the ball. Raise the club as it makes impact with the golf ball. While you'll be able to maximize your force and control by swinging downward, scooping up when your club meets the ball will give the ball the air it needs to escape the grass. Both the downward swing and upward scoop should be accomplished in a single, fluid motion. When you become more experienced with chipping, you may control the chipping force to accommodate the distance you want the ball to sail. Follow through with the motion after the ball has made contact. A proper chip won't end with the ball's impact. In order to maximize your force, you should see the swing through, leaving your club back up in the air. Complete the swing in the same fluid motion you started with. Watch where the ball ends up. After a chip, the ball should fly a short distance and proceed to roll. As with any golf shot, you should keep your eye on where the ball lands. Keeping an eye on the ball is important during practice, as well. It can teach you how much force you need with each club to go a given distance. Decide if the situation warrants chipping the ball. Chipping the ball is a more strategic move than a regular golf shot. It is meant to get your ball out of a tricky situation, such as if you're caught in the grass or trying to navigate past a hill. Chipping the golf ball should not be used in instances where a normal shot can easily be employed. This rule doesn't apply if you're trying to learn the shot. If anything, you should practice the basics of chipping on a smooth surface before you move on to its usual application. Choose a club with the right ratio. A ratio refers to the distance you want the ball to fly compared to the distance you want it to roll after. Because chip shots are used to get your ball out of the grass and back on course, you can estimate the distance from the grassed ball to the green, plus the distance you want the ball to go on the green. You can measure the distances by using footsteps. For instance, if your ball is five steps away from the green and the hole is ten steps following that, you will have a 1-to-2 ratio. A sand wedge is good for a 1-to-1 ratio from the grass to the green. A pitching wedge is good for a 1-to-2 ratio. A 9-iron is a 1-to-3 ratio. Hold your club firmly. With any shot, including chipping, you should hold the golf club firmly. Because chipping the ball successfully requires so much control, make sure your hands are placed properly on the club before you attempt to chip the ball. Get lessons. Lessons will accelerate the learning process. Although some golf instructors can be quite pricey (ranging upwards of 100 USD per hour), getting a few lessons in will help you to unlearn bad habits you may have picked up on your own. Train using an elongated club. If you're having any issues with footing and stance, an elongated club will act as a helpful indicator of when you go too far. If you swing too far or change your back position, the back of the club will clip you in the back. This slightly painful reprimand will remind you that you're doing it wrong. Holding a pool stick alongside the club also works in lieu of a long club. Make phantom contact with the ball as you work out your stance. With a "phantom swing," you will execute the swing, stopping right before the ball itself. This movement will allow you to practice the motion of chipping a ball without having to retrieve the ball each time you go through with it. Practice every week. As with any skill, you need to commit to regular practice in order to polish your chipping technique. You should try to golf at least once a week, and when you do, include chipping as part of the skills you practice. Once you figure out the foundation, you can treat it as you would any other skill. Experiment with different chipping stances. Although there are certain rights and wrong when it comes to golf stances, part of the fun of learning involves figuring out your personal style. Experiment with different footings, swings, and warm-ups. Although it's important to have a firm learning foundation in place before getting creative, it should be seen as a natural part of the learning process to find your own style. | Align the ball with your sternum. Keep your chest up. Place your feet closely together. Open up your hip. Swing with your full upper body. Swing downward. Raise the club as it makes impact with the golf ball. Follow through with the motion after the ball has made contact. Watch where the ball ends up. Decide if the situation warrants chipping the ball. Choose a club with the right ratio. Hold your club firmly. Get lessons. Train using an elongated club. Make phantom contact with the ball as you work out your stance. Practice every week. Experiment with different chipping stances. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Bake-an-Apple-Pie-from-Scratch | How to Bake an Apple Pie from Scratch | To bake an apple pie from scratch, first make the dough by mixing flour, salt, butter, and water in a large bowl and kneading the mixture. Then, roll half the dough out into a 2-inch thick circle and line the bottom of a pie pan with it, placing the pan in the fridge when you're done. Next, make the filling by mixing cubed apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, lemon juice, flour, nutmeg, and cinnamon. When you're finished, spoon the filling into the pie pan and cover it with the other half of the dough. Finally, bake the apple pie for 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. | Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Make sure you have a clean, spacious counter top available for kneading and rolling out the dough. Place the flour, salt, and butter in a large bowl. With a pastry blender or fork, cut the butter into the flour until it forms tiny balls with the flour. Then slowly add the water. Knead with floured hands until a large dough ball forms. Split the ball in half and wrap one of the pieces in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped dough in the refrigerator. An alternative is to wrap both of the dough balls and refrigerate them for 30 minutes before proceeding to the next step. Begin to roll the dough out on a floured counter-top. Make a circle shape about 2 inches (5.1 cm) larger in diameter than the pie pan. Some people prefer to place a layer of plastic wrap on top of the dough as it's being rolled so that it wouldn't stick to the rolling pin. Lift the flattened dough off the counter-top slowly. Do this by wrapping the dough completely around the rolling pin. Unroll the dough over the pan, being careful not to let it tear. Fit it into the pan, pressing it against all the sides. Cut off the overhanging edges. Leave about ⁄ 4 inch (0.6 cm) of extra dough over the pie pan. Place the pie shell in the refrigerator. Make the filling. Peel and slice the apples into pieces about 1/8 of an inch thick or chop them into 1/2" cubes. Put them into a large bowl and mix with sugars (white and brown), salt, lemon juice, flour, nutmeg and cinnamon. Drain apples for 20 minutes and then heat the liquid produced along with 3 cubes of butter in the microwave until it's reduced to third of its volume and becomes thicker (prevents a soggy crust). Roll out the remaining ball of dough on a floured surface, just like you did before. Sliced top. Gently fold it in half and make 4 to 5 half inch long slices along the fold and 4 slices in the center of the folded piece. These will allow the filling to breath and not break through the sides. Unfold the top crust set it aside. Lattice top. Cut the rolled out dough into as many 1" wide strips as it will yield. Remove the pie shell and filling from the refrigerator. Pour the filling into the pie shell. Spread it out with the back of a spoon. There should be enough filling to fill the entire pan and stack up above the edge at least an inch in the center. Brush the edges of the pie shell with a beaten egg. Lay the top crust over the pie. Sliced top. Lay the sliced top crust over filling. Cut off the excess edges with a butter knife. Take both thumbs facing each other and place them over the edge. Push thumbs down and towards each other. Do this around the entire pie to seal it. Lattice top. Place the pastry strips across the top of the apples in a criss-cross pattern, then weave them together to create a lattice effect. Cut off the overhanging excess pastry and press the edges down into the rim as previously described. Sprinkle milk over the top or brush the lattice with the egg wash. This will help to brown the crust. Dust cinnamon and sugar over the top crust for an extra touch. Bake at 400ºF (200ºC) for 15 minutes. Turn down the oven to 375ºF (190ºC) for 45 minutes. Remove when top crust is golden brown. Allow the pie to cool for 45 minutes to one hour at room temperature before serving. Finished. | Preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Make sure you have a clean, spacious counter top available for kneading and rolling out the dough. Place the flour, salt, and butter in a large bowl. Knead with floured hands until a large dough ball forms. Begin to roll the dough out on a floured counter-top. Lift the flattened dough off the counter-top slowly. Unroll the dough over the pan, being careful not to let it tear. Cut off the overhanging edges. Place the pie shell in the refrigerator. Make the filling. Roll out the remaining ball of dough on a floured surface, just like you did before. Remove the pie shell and filling from the refrigerator. Pour the filling into the pie shell. Brush the edges of the pie shell with a beaten egg. Lay the top crust over the pie. Sprinkle milk over the top or brush the lattice with the egg wash. Bake at 400ºF (200ºC) for 15 minutes. Allow the pie to cool for 45 minutes to one hour at room temperature before serving. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Theme-Essay | How to Write a Theme Essay | When writing a theme essay, you'll need to explore a given theme in the text you're studying. Before you start your essay, brainstorm some notes about your theme, which you can then build your essay from. For example, if you have the theme of good and evil, think about which characters are mostly good or evil, any good or evil actions they take, description that uses light and darkness, and any religious context. In your intro, state your thesis, which should summarize your essay's main argument. Then, choose 4 or 5 examples of your theme and write a paragraph exploring each one. Make sure you support your points with quotes from the text. In your conclusion, link your ideas back to your thesis statement. | Read the essay prompt carefully. A theme essay usually responds to a specific prompt given to you by a teacher or professor. Most essay prompts will ask you to identify the theme, or the overarching message, in a text. Look at the terms used in the prompt and highlight keywords or important terms. This will help you identify what you need to address as you write your essay. For example, an essay prompt may ask you to reflect on the theme of good versus evil in John Steinbeck's East of Eden. Brainstorm ideas for the essay. Once you've read and considered the essay prompt, brainstorm how you can write your essay. In your essay, you will use research and evidence to support a central argument. Start to jot down examples you can use to reflect on the theme. Make a list of everything you know about the topic. This can be information you learned in class, as well as information you found on your own. Write down keywords or key scenes in the text that respond to the essay prompt. Think about what words or scenes from the text come to mind when you think of a specific theme. For example, when you brainstorm ideas on East of Eden , you may write down any moments in the text that seem to speak to the theme of good and evil. Create a thesis statement. A thesis statement is a single sentence that summarizes the entire essay. You'll need to include this thesis statement in your introductory paragraph, and the rest of your essay will need to support it. Your thesis statement will need to address the theme, your primary example or examples, and the stance you will take on the topic. For example, your thesis might be: "In East of Eden , John Steinbeck rejects the Biblical idea of good and evil and instead focuses on the contradictions and complications found in good and evil." Outline the essay. Once you've figured out your thesis, you can begin outlining your essay. Some teachers may require a 5-paragraph essay while others may want the essay shorter or longer. A typical essay outline has three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. For example, using the East of Eden prompt, your outline might be: Introduction: Discuss landscape as metaphor, include thesis statement. Body: Describe mountains in opening scene, elaborate on how they symbolize good vs. evil, state how characters live between the mountains, showing how people are caught between good and evil. Conclusion: Restate thesis statement, return to landscape as metaphor. Start with a hook. Your introduction should have a first sentence that hooks readers in. From there, you can give a brief overview of what the essay will discuss. Your thesis statement should appear somewhere towards the end of your introduction. Questions can make fun hooks for the reader. Ask a rhetorical question that relates to the theme of the essay, such as "How does one decide what is good and what is evil?" You can also use a quote from the text as the hook. Find a quote in the text that explores the themes and ideas you'll be discussing in your essay. Introduce your supporting ideas. In your body paragraphs, introduce your supporting ideas. The beginning of each body paragraph should introduce a main point. The main point should connect back to your thesis statement and your discussion of a particular theme in the text. For example, you may introduce the role of nature plays in the text to discuss the theme of good and evil. The first sentence of your body paragraph should discuss the role of nature. This will set up the paragraph and let the reader know what the focus of the paragraph will be. Use examples from the text. Once you've introduced your supporting ideas, elaborate on them using quotes or references from the text you are analyzing. All your paragraphs should circle around the central theme or thesis of your essay, using the text as evidence. For example, you may discuss the use of nature in the text in one paragraph. The body of the paragraph should then use quotes and scenes in the text to support this idea. You might write,"The descriptions of the Gabilan Mountains in the text symbolize good and evil. The characters in the story live in the Salinas Valley, trapped in a gray area between these two extremes." Create a strong conclusion. A good conclusion should sum up your main ideas and leave the reader with a memorable closing line. Restate your thesis statement in the conclusion, using slightly different wording. Ask yourself, "What do I want my readers to have learned through this essay?" Remind readers about the essay's theme. Reference some of the arguments you made in the body of your essay, reinforcing how they support your original point. Check the structure and flow of the essay. Review the essay to make sure there is an introduction, body, and conclusion. Check that your thesis statement appears in the introduction and conclusion of the essay. Make sure you have evidence in the body paragraphs to support your thesis. Check that there are transitions between paragraphs. Look at the beginning of each paragraph to make sure they all flow well together. Look for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Read the essay backwards to catch any spelling or grammar errors. Circle all the punctuation marks in the essay to confirm they are correct. Print out your paper and proofread it. Oftentimes, errors are easier to catch on paper. If you can't print out your paper, try changing the size or type of the font. Anything that alters how the work looked when you wrote it can help alert you to errors. Show the essay to others for review. It can be difficult to critique your own work, especially if you have been staring at it for a while. Ask a friend, peer, or family member to review your essay for you. Have them check the essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Ask them if the essay flows well and explores a theme well. Be open to constructive feedback from friends and peers. This will only improve the essay and ensure it is at its best when you turn it in. | Read the essay prompt carefully. Brainstorm ideas for the essay. Create a thesis statement. Outline the essay. Start with a hook. Introduce your supporting ideas. Use examples from the text. Create a strong conclusion. Check the structure and flow of the essay. Look for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Show the essay to others for review. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Better-at-Soccer | How to Get Better at Soccer | If you want to get better at soccer dribbling by yourself, start practicing ball handling drills to improve your dexterity and speed. While you're at it, make sure you train your non-dominant leg so you'll be less predictable in-game. You should also train one-on-one defense with a partner by angling your body to guide your opponent and by watching their hips to predict where they'll go next. Finally, communicate with your team during games so you know who's open or who has the ball. | Perfect your first touch, setting yourself up for your next pass, shot, or dribble without pausing. Your first touch is essential, and this skill is what separates the pros from the amateurs. You need to be able to stop a ball at your feet from the air or from the ground, laying it right in front of you so that your next touch can immediately start the attack. Make sure you learn to "trap" the ball with your whole body by: Close-range one-touch passing with a partner. If your very first touch is an accurate pass, defenders will have fits trying to steal the ball from you. You can also practice this by kicking against a wall. Having a teammate or friend throw or cross a ball in the air. You must take only 2 touches -- one to settle, the other to pass it back to them. Passing and shooting on the run. Have someone feed you a ball on the run, timing your first touch so that you can pass or shoot on the second touch without breaking stride. Practice close-touch ball handling drills. Your goal with the following exercises isn't just to get faster, it is to get more precise, learning to control the ball with your entire foot to become a better dribbler and passer. Try out these drills, aiming for 100 touches on each foot with each drill: Bounce the ball between your feet, using the insoles to keep the ball between your knees and "passing" back and forth as quickly as possible. Tap the ball rapidly on the top with your toes, working on getting as quick as possible. As you improve. Work on actually rolling the ball slightly with the sole of your toe, focusing on this small, precise touch. Try the "in-and-out." Use the sole of your right foot to roll the ball to the right. Roll your foot all the way over the ball to the right, then use your instep to pass the ball to the left foot. Control it with the sole of your left and roll it out, repeating the drill with both feet, back and forth. Practice pulling off shots and crosses on the run. If you've been playing for a while, you generally know how to shoot and cross effectively when the ball isn't moving. But this isn't especially "lifelike" in a real game, and you'll be leaps and bounds above the competition once you're accurate and powerful on the move. Luckily, this is an easy skill to practice both alone and with a partner. Simply take a touch, get up to roughly 75% full speed, and then take the shot. As you get better, pick up the speed. Once you can hit a dead sprint, take a touch, and fire off a shot or cross, you'll be a defender's worst nightmare. Approach from a variety of angles, from hitting shots while running up the center of the field to working on crosses across your body from the sidelines. Work on your position's skills. A defender, for example, needs to be able to turn the ball and hit up the field as fast as possible to release pressure from an attack. Pay attention to your "opposite" or non-dominant foot. It doesn't matter how good your right foot is when you're up against top defenders, who will learn to quickly force you to your left. Great players are dangerous with both feet, forcing defenders to cover all the options. Don't eliminate half of your body from your arsenal -- make sure you work both feet. Learn to dribble with precise, tight control. The ball should feel like an extension of your foot. Take it into a small area (like the penalty box) and just dribble between the lines, varying your speed with sharp sprints and quick stops. Try out a few moves and use both feet, working until you tire out. Your goal is to get the ball as tight to your feet, at any speed, as possible. You'll make defenders lives much harder, and you can continue training by: Setting up obstacle courses with flags, cones, or old T-shirts. Make yourself zig-zag, weave, and change directions as fast as you can without losing the ball. Juggling may seem "useless" in a real game, but it is the easiest way to improve your touch on the ball, keeping it close with your entire body. Work on both feet, as well as the length of your touch, alternating tight, small juggles and higher, harder to handle touches. Work on some advanced moves and tricks, as they require precise ball control and give you new offensive tools in games. Learn to hit the ball in different areas to get different spins and shots. Where and how you hit a ball will greatly change how it travels, and the best players have the best ball control. Whether on offense or defense, learning how to use the whole ball greatly increases your options anywhere on the field. Short and accurate passes usually occur with the inside of your foot. Even precise, mid-level crosses can be hit this way. Hitting the ball on the outside thirds will cause it to bend if you use your laces. Work on getting under the ball a bit, as if hitting it from a diagonal angle. You can knuckle the ball by cracking it with laces just below dead center and avoiding a follow-throw, taking away the spin and causing the ball to dip unpredictably. Get under the ball, using the edge between your laces and instep, for a backspin chip, which is good for precise crosses that can't bounce or skip away. Always follow through with your foot when you hit the ball, whether it's a shot, a pass, or a cross. This will give you more control over where the ball goes. Learn one-on-one defending to be useful anywhere on the field. From strikers to center-backs, everyone needs to know individual defending. So get a partner and start playing 1v1, working on handling your man and pressuring him effectively. When defending one on one, remember to: Stay slightly crouched and on the balls of your feet. Your knees should be bent in an athletic position, allowing you to react quickly. Angle your body, with one foot ahead of the other, so that you invite the attacker to go to one side. Force them to the sideline, or to your other defenders, instead of standing straight up and letting them choose your direction. Watch a player's hips to avoid getting tricked. Your hips are your center of gravity, and they generally telegraph where a player is going unless they're Lionel Messi. It is almost impossible to quickly change your hips direction, and you can use this to your advantage as a defender. Keep your eyes up throughout the game, especially when you have the ball. Great players are always scanning the field, especially when they have the ball. This takes practice, as it's harder to control a ball you can't see. But learning to use the bottom of your eyesight while scanning the field is an essential skill to become a smarter, and thus better, player. Use practices to work on keeping your head up. Turn the ball over now, not in games, and you'll quickly see improvement. Communicate on the field, talking constantly to aid your team. Great players are always talking: "Open man," "I've got the ball," "I need some help," and much, much more is constantly being shouted on the field, and there is a good reason. Soccer is a team game, and intelligent players know the team must be on the same page for all 90 minutes to get the most out of the game. Be a team leader and start chattering every game and practice. Essential things to talk about throughout the game include: Defensive Marks: let your team know who you're covering if you want to challenge the ball, and if there are any unmarked defenders who need to be covered. Advice to the player dribbling: don't shout tons of info at them, but don't leave them in the dark. Tell them when they have time and when there is a "man on." Making Runs: Tell your teammate you're "overlapping!" or that "you can play it back" if they need. When you make a big run, don't assume they will always see you, especially if their head is down. Watch professional games at least once a week, learning from the best. Note where the players are not just when they have the ball, but off of it. What runs are people in your position making? When do they move up to attack and when do they peel back. Don't be afraid to be a bit of a critic -- use these games to learn new ideas and break down why certain things didn't work. How would you play differently, and how would you like to emulate your favorite players? Burgeoning players can also check out tutorials, clips, and highlights on YouTube, which can help fill in gaps if you're unsure what techniques the pros are using on shots or passes. Find a team or league you love and become a fan -- the more you watch the better your play will be. Learn the basics of team tactics, becoming a team leader on offense and defense. A big part of soccer intelligence is learning how to work as a team. While each team has specific strategies that they must develop together, there are some tactics that hold true no matter what team you're on: Contract on defense, expand on offense. This is the basis of all strategies -- you want to take away space on defense and create space when attacking. So, on defense, you come together near the center of the field, forming a unified base and moving together to prevent offensive threats. On offense, you try to make them break this base by stretching out to defend you and your team. Follow up all shots, forcing the defense to react. Even decent shots can turn into goals if your team is crashing the goal on shots and crosses. This sort of pressure can upend defenses, as defenders will face their own goal on a rebound and have a very hard time clearing it safely. Keep your shape defensively. Even if you're not playing an offside trap, the defense should be on a horizontal line, holding shape. When defenses lose this shape, they create gaps and holes between themselves. If you play in the back, always look left and right and keep everyone in a mostly even line. Try out and play for the best teams you can find. There are no shortcuts to being a better soccer player other than playing as much as you can. That said, you'll get much better much faster if you're up against the toughest competition you can handle. Try out for a team that pushes you, or, if that's not possible, make challenges for yourself. Go join the local adult pick-up game (just bring cleats and jump on the field,) get your teammates to play with you in the offseason, and keep practicing alone when there is no one to join you. If you have no players around to jump in with, go shoot against a wall, pass back and forth with a fence, or juggle and work on your tricks in the backyard. Play small games too, like 1 on 1 or 4 vs. 4. Small games give you more chances to practice with the ball and improve your skills. Get fit for your position to get the most out of training. While all soccer players need to train to get the most out of their play, all players need to train differently. By thinking about your position's specific needs you can get the most out of your body and be the biggest asset to your team. Goalies: Focus on your strength, reaction time, and a slim, quick figure that can move in an instant. Defenders: Must be physically strong, both upper body and lower, to win any tackle or challenge. Need great sprinting speed as well, and should be fit. Midfielders: Must be able to run and run and run. Quick decision making, and the touch and passing ability to back it up, are essential. Forwards: Should be fast and able to jostle with strong defenders. They also tend to be endurance runners, able to jog around all game to make space and still win a sprint to the end line. Keep moving off the ball, not just when you may receive it. Great soccer players rarely stand still. As defenders, you are constantly shutting down space and reacting to the offense. As a midfielder, you're constantly scanning the field and moving to the ball, opening up space in the middle. As a striker, you're constantly trying to outfox a defender, slipping by them or disappearing when they are ball watching. You must always be moving, keeping the field open and dynamic and the other team guessing -- standing still makes you almost useless to your team. Check to the ball, even if you don't get it. As soon as you appear, demand the ball, but leave immediately if you don't get it. You'll have a defender following you, which opens up the space you were just in for your team. Spread wide when your team gets the ball if you play near a wing -- a quick counterattack to the sidelines often has the most space to push forward. If you don't have a man to mark, fill in the space an attacker might want. Try to figure out the most dangerous passing lanes to goal and sit in them, clogging them for the other team. Take every practice seriously, working on your weak spots. Practice is the time to get over your weaknesses, not impress your teammates. Treat each practice like a warm-up for a huge game, working yourself hard in every drill and testing out new moves now so that they become second-nature in a game. Play multiple positions -- improve as both a shooter and a defender Focus on both feet -- no one cares if you turn it over now, but they do care in games. Play quickly in practice especially. Don't slow down or take it lightly, even if your defenders are putting less than game pressure on you. Play and make decisions as quickly as possible. Scouts and coaches look a lot at your pace of play -- how fast you receive the ball, look up, and pass/shoot/dribble. Don't hold onto the ball too long, and practice making quick, decisive decisions on the ball, pushing yourself to play with urgency. Good ways to do so include: Pass the ball and keep moving. A few quick touches are usually enough, as the ball moves much faster than you can run. The longer you're in the same area, the longer the defense has to shut down holes and get set. If you plan to dribble, do so at a good quick pace instead of slowly. Put the defenders on the back foot. Look for crosses, especially ones that force the defenders to face their own goal. Big passes force a defense to scramble into new positions quickly, which often opens up holes. Search out advice, guidance, and coaching in your weak areas. No matter how much better at soccer you get, you'll never be a perfect player. Soccer requires 11 players in complete unison to succeed, so keep your ears open to your coaches and mentors. Each player has specific weaknesses they can work on -- don't close your ears to your own. Ask your coach what you can do to get better a few times a season. How can you work on your own skills outside of practice? Consider calling in a personal coach or trainer to work on the skills you don't have time for in practice. If you really want to excel, especially in an area without high-level teams, you'll need the individual attention. | Perfect your first touch, setting yourself up for your next pass, shot, or dribble without pausing. Practice close-touch ball handling drills. Practice pulling off shots and crosses on the run. Pay attention to your "opposite" or non-dominant foot. Learn to dribble with precise, tight control. Learn to hit the ball in different areas to get different spins and shots. Learn one-on-one defending to be useful anywhere on the field. Keep your eyes up throughout the game, especially when you have the ball. Communicate on the field, talking constantly to aid your team. Watch professional games at least once a week, learning from the best. Learn the basics of team tactics, becoming a team leader on offense and defense. Try out and play for the best teams you can find. Get fit for your position to get the most out of training. Keep moving off the ball, not just when you may receive it. Take every practice seriously, working on your weak spots. Play and make decisions as quickly as possible. Search out advice, guidance, and coaching in your weak areas. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Understand-Fractions | How to Understand Fractions | To understand fractions, start by identifying the numerator and denominator of a fraction. The numerator is the number written above the line. It is the “part” of the “whole” that you're talking about. The denominator is the bottom number of the fraction and represents the “whole." For example, in the fraction 1/4, 1 is the numerator and 4 is the denominator. This means that the whole has been divided into 4 equal parts! | Identify the numerator. A fraction is always written with one number on top of a line and another number underneath that line. The numerator of a fraction is the top number. It is the “part” of the “whole” that you are talking about. For example, in the fraction ¼, 1 is the numerator. The fraction indicates one part of a whole that has four parts. Identify the denominator. The denominator is the bottom number of the fraction and represents the “whole”. It is the number of parts the whole is divided into. To remember the denominator think “down”-ominator. For example, in the fraction ¼, 4 is the denominator. This whole has been divided into four equal parts. Recognize an improper fraction. A fraction is considered improper if the numerator (the top number) is larger than the denominator (the bottom number). When working with fractions, you never want to write a final solution as an improper fraction. Always remember to simplify it into a mixed or whole number. Some examples of improper fractions: / 3 , / 4 , / 3 , / 5. Simplify improper fractions into mixed or whole numbers. Some fractions can simply be divided into a whole number, while others will not divide evenly. Numbers that don't divide evenly must be rewritten as a mixed number. To simplify an improper fraction, first divide the numerator by the denominator. For example, for the fraction / 3 , divide 10 by 3. 3 goes into 10 three times (3 x 3 = 9), but there will be a remainder of 1. Write the remainder as a fraction of the original denominator. With a remainder of 1 the fraction of the mixed number will be / 3. The mixed number of / 3 is 3 / 3. Note, not all improper fractions will be mixed numbers; some will simplify into whole numbers. For example: / 5 simplifies to 5. Identify the use of fractions in your daily life. You might be surprised to find that you use fractions on a pretty regular basis throughout your day. You may know fractions by a different name, decimals. Do you ever trade or share food with your friends at lunch? Maybe you trade half of your chips for half a dessert. These are fractions! Do you ever help your parents with baking? Measuring cups use fractions. A recipe may call for ¼ teaspoon of vanilla or / 3 of a cup of flour. Pay attention throughout your day and see how many times you use fractions without even realizing it. Draw a circle. A good way to visualize fractions is to draw a picture to represent the fraction you are working with. You can start with any shape you would like, but here we will use a circle. Draw a large circle that you will be able to divide into multiple equal parts. The circle itself is not a fraction. It represents the whole number one. Cut that circle in half. Draw a straight line down the middle of the circle dividing it into two equal pieces. You now have a circle that has two parts that make it a whole. When you are dividing shapes to represent fractions, remember to always divide the shape up evenly so you have equal parts. If you shade one part of the circle, you will have shaded ½ of the circle. The other half remains untouched. Cut the circle into four equal pieces. Now, draw another straight line horizontally across the center of the circle. The circle should now be divided into four equal parts. You can represent this whole circle as / 4. If you shade one piece of the circle, you would have ¼ of the circle shaded. If you shade two pieces of the circle, you would have / 4 of the circle shaded. Note that / 4 simplifies to ½. You can also see this visually because you have shaded half of the circle even though it is divided into 4 parts. Cut the circle into eight equal pieces. You can continue to divide the circle into as many equal parts as you would like. Adding two more lines through the quarters will give you a circle divided into eight equal parts. Continue shading parts and writing the fraction that represents the shaded area. Remember, for a circle divided into eight parts, the denominator will always be 8; only the numerator will change to represent the shaded regions. Define equivalent fractions. An equivalent fraction is a set of fractions that may look different from each other, but in reality are the same when reduced to their simplest forms. The easiest way to recognize equivalent fractions is to simplify each fraction and compare them. An example of three equivalent fractions: / 2 , / 10 , / 20 Draw diagrams of each fraction. When you are first starting out with fractions, an easy way to understand them is to draw a picture. Remember, the “whole” of the fraction is represented by the denominator and is the bottom number of the fraction. Compare the diagrams of each fraction and see if they match. A diagram of / 2 , / 10 , and / 20 will have identical shaded regions and therefore are all equivalent fractions. Note: For numbers with large denominators, it will be a bit more difficult to draw pictures. Simplify all of the fractions. Another way to check for equivalent fractions is to reduce each fraction to its simplest form. You will frequently come across fractions that haven't been simplified and they may look different in this form. Reduce both of the fractions and then compare them. For example: / 2 is in its simplest form, but / 10 and / 20 can be simplified further. / 10 can be divided by 5 to simplify to / 2. / 20 can be divided by 10 to simplify to / 2. Cross multiply the two fractions. To cross multiply means to set the two fractions equal to each other and multiply across the equals sign in a “cross” or “x” shape. The denominator of one fraction is multiplied by the numerator of the other fraction. Then the other denominator and numerator are multiplied together. If the two products are equal to each other, the fractions are equivalent fractions. For example: set / 20 = / 2. Cross multiply: 2 x 10 = 20 x 1. 20 = 20; therefore, the fractions are equivalent. Another example: / 10 = / 2. Cross multiply: 5 x 2 = 10 x 1. 10 = 10; therefore, the fractions are equivalent. | Identify the numerator. Identify the denominator. Recognize an improper fraction. Simplify improper fractions into mixed or whole numbers. Identify the use of fractions in your daily life. Draw a circle. Cut that circle in half. Cut the circle into four equal pieces. Cut the circle into eight equal pieces. Define equivalent fractions. Draw diagrams of each fraction. Simplify all of the fractions. Cross multiply the two fractions. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Open-an-Australian-Bank-Account | How to Open an Australian Bank Account | If you're moving to Australia and you want to open an Australian bank account, choose one of the country's 4 major banks based on the one that fits your needs best. These are Westpac, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, and ANZ. If you will be using the account for daily purchases, opt for a checking account, or choose a savings account if you just need a place to hold your money. To open the account, provide your social security or ID number, your birth date, and your residential address, along with proof of your identity, like a passport. | Ensure you are arriving in Australia in the next 12 months. Before pursuing an Australian bank account, ensure that your arrival will occur in 12 months or less. You will need to confirm your identity in person, in Australia, within 12 months of starting your account. If you are not able to accomplish this, the account you have started will become void, and your money will be returned. Choose an Australian bank. There are four major banks in Australia: Westpac, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, and ANZ. Each of them offers similar account types with a low or zero monthly service fee, as long as you deposit a minimum amount. Conduct some research on each bank, perhaps even giving each bank a call, and then select the bank that best suits your needs. Select the type of account you will need. In general, there are two types of basic accounts that you can open: an everyday transaction account (similar to a checking account) or a savings account. Will you be using this account to conduct your daily business, or merely as a place to hold your money? Select the type of account you need. Gather your personal information. In order to begin the process of opening an Australian bank account, you will need to have some personal information ready. You will need your social security number, driver's license or I.D. number, your birth date, and residential address. You will also need to have a few important documents that verify your identity, such as a passport and marriage license. Apply online. Once you have selected your bank and gathered your personal information, visit the website of your bank and move through the application process. In most cases, you will need to scan or fax copies of some of your documents. If you prefer, you may also be able to apply by phone. You will still need to scan or fax some identifying documents. Verify your identity online. In order to proceed with the account process, you will need to allow your bank to complete a preliminary verification of your identity. If you agree, you bank will disclose your name, date of birth, and residential address to a third party (such as Veda Group Limited) who will verify your identify using commercial, commonwealth or governmental data bases. Deposit money. Depending on which bank and which type of account you have selected, you will need to deposit a certain minimum amount of money. Your account will only be able to receive deposits until you have completed your in-person identity check with the bank. (In other words, until you arrive in Australia, you will not be able to access to money you have deposited into your account.) Find your local branch. All of the major banks in Australia have more than one location. Find the branch that is nearest to where you will be staying, and go to pay them a visit. Complete your ID verification in person. When you arrive in Australia, you will need to visit your bank in person and verify your identity. You will need to bring two forms of government-issued identification, such as a driver's license, a passport, or a social security card. Consider the benefits. If you consider yourself a perpetual traveler, chances are you have considered investing (or have already invested) in some type of offshore banking. Unfortunately, most offshore banking opportunities (such as those in Brazil) present some limitations (e.g., inabilities to use PayPal and Kickstarter, problems making purchases in some countries). Consider placing your money in an Australian bank instead. Australia allows you to open an account on a tourist visa. As a non-resident, you will still receive tax breaks. Your account will come with a Visa/Mastercard debit card that can be used internationally. Select an “immigrant-friendly” bank. You will need to select a bank that is friendly to immigrants and non-residents. Good choices for this include Commonwealth Bank and NAB. Apply online. Visit the website of the bank you have chosen and fill out all the necessary information. As for the address, you may use an address outside of Australia (to qualify as a non-resident). Under visa, you can select “ETA.” You will need to verify most of your information in person, and you will verify your tourist visa at this time, as well. Book a trip to Australia. In order to activate your account, you must appear in person in Australia. So now is an excellent time to book a trip! Be sure to bring all necessary personal identification, including your passport, visa, and at least one other form of I.D. Visit your bank and verify your account. Go to your bank in person and complete the final steps in creating your non-resident bank account. At this time, you can request your debit card and set up online banking. Choose a bank. There are four major banks in Australia: Westpac, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, and ANZ. You are going to want to select one of these banks to house your account. Consider which bank is closest to your home or work. You may also want to compare the services and fees offered by each bank. Select an account type. Most banks will offer two basic types of accounts for Australian citizens: everyday accounts and savings accounts. Additionally, most banks will have special offers for students, with lower minimum balances and lower fees. Consider what you will need to use your account for and choose the account to suit your needs. Gather personal information. In order to open your bank account, you are going to need some documents, such as proof of address, and two forms of government-issued (like an I.D. or passport). Additionally, if you will be applying for a student account, you will need a copy of your school I.D. and/or school schedule to verify your student-status. Gather these materials before you apply for your account. Apply online. Visit the website of the bank you have chosen and begin the application process. You will be asked to select what type of account you would like, and to fill in some personal information. You may deposit money electronically at this time. Visit your bank in person. After you have begun the online application process, you will need to visit your bank in person. At this time, you will present any verifying documents, deposit money into your account (if you haven't already), and receive your debit card. Alternatively, you skip the online application and visit your bank in person to complete the process from start to finish. Depending on your bank and type of account, you may need to meet a certain minimum deposit in order to open your account. | Ensure you are arriving in Australia in the next 12 months. Choose an Australian bank. Select the type of account you will need. Gather your personal information. Apply online. Verify your identity online. Deposit money. Find your local branch. Complete your ID verification in person. Consider the benefits. Select an “immigrant-friendly” bank. Apply online. Book a trip to Australia. Visit your bank and verify your account. Choose a bank. Select an account type. Gather personal information. Apply online. Visit your bank in person. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Build-Glutes | How to Build Glutes | To build glutes, incorporate weighted exercises like squats, lunges, step-ups, and deadlifts into your workout routine. You can also do exercises without weights, such as bridges, leg raises, and running, to tone and build your glutes. Be sure to do a variety of exercises to target all 3 glute muscles and alternate the exercises to avoid overworking specific areas! | regularly. Squat You can't build a better butt by only focusing on squats, but you should still do them. Squats may be the most effective total lower body exercise you can do. Stand with your feet under your shoulders and slightly pointed outward. Keep your back straight and your eyes forward. If it helps, find a spot on the wall in front of you to focus on. Look at this spot throughout the entire squat. Breathe in and start bending at the hips while pushing your butt back. As your knees start to bend keep pushing your hips back. A proper squat should feel somewhat like sitting on your heels. Focus on keeping your knees lined up with your toes. To execute a proper squat, make sure your hip joint is lower than your knees. Once you feel comfortable squatting, try to go deeper than this for a more intense workout. Breathe out and drive your feet into the ground to bring yourself back up. Squeeze your glutes and push your hips forward until you're back to the starting position. If you're knew to lifting, try working with just the bar to get a feel for the form. You can even do squats with just your body weight. These are "air squats," and are an excellent way to warm up. Once you start adding weight, aim for an amount you can lift for 5 full "reps," or repetitions. Each time you squat and come back up is a full repetition. Do lunges with weights. As with squats, keep your back straight and find a spot in front of you to focus on. Relax your shoulders. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart. Find a comfortable weight to hold in each hand. Take a step forward with one leg until your knee is bent at a 90-degree angle. Keep this front knee in line with your ankle. The knee of your back leg should also be bent at a 90-degree angle. Do not let it touch the floor. Pushing off with the heel of your front leg, return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg. Try reverse lunges. Set up the basic starting position for lunges. Instead of taking a step forward, step backward. Keep your back straight as you would in a forward lunge. This requires a little more balance than the forward lunge. Make sure you're comfortable with your form before attempting a reverse lunge. Lunges are a good lower body exercise, but they can put a lot of strain on your knees. Take smaller steps if you feel pain in your knees. You can always work to increase your range of motion. Do weighted step-ups. Find a small platform or step stool. Holding a dumbbell in each hand, and standing up straight, place one foot onto the platform. Pushing with your lead foot, lift the rest of your body onto the platform. As you lift the rest of your body onto the platform, breathe out. Place your lead leg back on the ground. Move your body off the platform until you are standing back in the starting position. As with lunges, you should alternate which leg you start each rep with. Try deadlifts. Deadlifts are a compound exercise. They will work out your lower body, but they also help with core and back strength. Stand up straight in front of a barbell with weights. Your feet should be under your shoulders and the bar should be over the middle of your feet. Keeping your back straight and your hips in place, lean down and grab the bar. Your hands should be a little further apart than your legs. Once you have a good grip on the bar, lower your hips and bend your knees slightly. To lift the weight off the ground, drive your feet down into the ground and pull up until you are standing upright. Inhale as you lift. Keep everything tight as you lift the weight off the ground. Squeeze your butt, engage your core, and don't lean back. Once you've lifted the weight off the ground, do not just drop the bar. To set the weight back down, reverse the movement you used to lift it. Keeping everything tight, push the hips back and begin bending the knees. Focus on a spot in front of you and move your entire body down at the same time. Do not lean forward and do not round your back. Add calisthenics to your routine. Some exercises that require weights can be done without weights. If you don't have time to hit the gym, you can do calisthenics almost anywhere. To do an air squat, set up as if you were in front of the squat rack at the gym. Put your feet a little more than shoulder width apart, with your toes facing outward. Using the same form you would in weighted squats, lower your hips and push your butt back. To help keep your balance, push your arms out in front of you as you lower down. Lunges can be performed without weights very easily. The form is exactly the same with or without weights. To do a glute kickback, set up as if you were going to do a push-up, but stay on your knees. Lift one leg off the ground until your thigh is parallel to the ground. Keep your shin perpendicular to the ground and push your leg up. Lower you leg slowly and repeat with the other leg. Try doing bridges. To do a short bridge, lie flat on your back with the bottoms of your feet on the floor and your knees at about 45 degrees. Keep your shoulders and arms on the floor. Push up using your heels and raise your hips up as high as possible. Hold at the top for two seconds. Slowly lower your body back to the ground. Once you've mastered the short bridge, try doing a straight bridge. The straight bridge is a lot like a reverse push up. Sitting up with your legs straight in front of you, place your hands near your hips. Push your torso up and squeeze your butt. Hold for a few seconds before lowering back down. To do a full bridge, lie flat on your back. Bend your knees and place your hands by your head. Lift your entire body off the ground and arch your back. Push your hips into the air and squeeze your legs, butt, and core. Take a deep breath and make sure you give everything a good stretch. Hold for a 1-2 seconds and then lower yourself back down. Do leg raises. Lie down on your side and rest your head on your bottom arm. Place your other arm palm down in front of you body. Keep both of your legs straight and lift your top leg about 1 foot off of your bottom leg. Lift your bottom leg to meet your top leg. Slowly lower both legs to the ground. Another variation is to lie flat on your back with your legs straight in front of you. Slowly lift your legs off the ground to a 90-degree angle. Hold for one second and then lower your legs taking care not to let them touch the ground. Go for a run. Running is a great way to tone your legs and butt. Any kind of running is likely to improve your lower body, but sprinting might be the best way. For an added challenge, run up a hill. Hill sprints will improve your glutes by putting more stress on your hip flexors. Running is a high impact activity and may not be good for your joints. If you can't run, try using an elliptical machine or a stationary bike. Experiment with other exercises. There are numerous exercises that workout your glutes and lower body. Do some research and find some new exercises to incorporate into your routine. Some people find that adding new exercises keeps them motivated to keep working out. Try out a hip thrust exercise for something a little different. You could also try joining a yoga class. Yoga is an excellent way to strengthen your muscles, increase flexibility, and tone your body. Watch what you eat. A large part of getting a better butt, and a better body in general, is diet. If you don't combine exercise with healthy eating, you won't get good results. To get the best results, calculate your recommended caloric intake. You need energy to work out. If you want to lose weight, consume fewer calories. If you want to gain weight, consume more. Either way, make sure you are balancing your work out with the amount of calories you consume. Eat well-balanced meals. You need protein to gain muscle, but you need carbohydrates for energy. Don't focus too heavily on one or the other. To get the most out of your diet, make sure you know how much of each you need. About 15% of your daily caloric intake should come from protein, and about 55% should come from carbohydrates. Lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, are better for you than red meat. Incorporate a vegetarian meal two or three times a week to mix things up. Eat whole grains, sweet potatoes, and whole wheat breads for a good source of energy. Eat the right kind of fat. You need a certain amount of healthy fats to maintain good health. Good fats are usually liquid at room temperature. Fats such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, and safflower oil are good. If a fat is solid at room temperature, such as butter, avoid it. Drink plenty of water. Water is necessary to keep the body hydrated. Aim for a glass of water for every 20 minutes of exercise. Develop the right muscles. When searching for a way to build a better butt, keep in mind that there are three muscles that make up the butt. Consider each of these muscles when creating your workout plan. The gluteus maximus is the largest of the butt muscles, as well as the largest muscle in the body. When you rise from a squat position, or do any kind of thigh extension, this is the muscle you are using. The gluteus medius and the gluteus minimus have similar functions. When running, they stabilize your leg as it hits the ground. They also help with thigh rotations. Discover your true shape. Don't focus too much on achieving a certain type of butt. As with the rest of your body, it is largely genetic. Whether you have a large set of glutes or a particularly small set is probably the result of heredity. You can still work your butt muscles and make them stronger, but you may not be able to change their shape. Mix it up. The best way to build a better butt is to workout all three muscles with a variety of exercises. Don't rely on just squats to get your butt in shape. The glutes respond to both strength and endurance training. Some of the muscles are "fast-twitch," meaning they respond to bursts of power. These muscles get worked out during exercises such as the squat. The glutes also contain "slow-twitch" muscles, which respond to aerobic exercises and running. | regularly. Do lunges with weights. Do weighted step-ups. Try deadlifts. Add calisthenics to your routine. Try doing bridges. Do leg raises. Go for a run. Experiment with other exercises. Watch what you eat. Eat well-balanced meals. Eat the right kind of fat. Drink plenty of water. Develop the right muscles. Discover your true shape. Mix it up. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Single-Pigeon | How to Keep a Single Pigeon | To keep a single pigeon as a pet, keep in mind that you'll need to give the bird lots of attention and companionship, since pigeons are very social animals. Next, buy a rectangular-shaped indoor cage and cover the bottom with paper or grassy sod. Keep the cage in a bright area but not one with direct sunlight. Then, feed your pigeon a commercial pellet or seed diet. Try to round out its diet with fresh veggies and vitamins supplements, which you can get at pet stores. | Consider the commitment. Because pigeons are social animals, keeping a single one is only recommended if you're sure you can offer enough time and companionship to keep your pigeon happy. You should also consult local regulations to verify that you are permitted to keep pigeons. There are many different breeds of pigeons and their respective social needs vary considerably. However, you should be able to set aside some time every day to help socialize your pigeon. Purchase cages. You should have indoor accommodations for your pigeon and, if at all possible, outside accommodations as well. It is important that you prepare these ahead of time. It will be disconcerting to the pigeon to relocate it without providing it with a new home immediately. Clean all cages before your pigeon arrives. An ideal indoor cage is rectangular and partially enclosed. Be sure that there are no holes in the cage long enough for the pigeon to stick its head through. Because pigeons like to walk, the bottom of the cage should be covered with paper or grassy sod. Keep the cage in a bright area but not one with direct sunlight. If the cage is in a place liable to be exposed to light at night, you should cover the cage during the evening. An outdoor aviary should be approximately 6' square and 8' high. Include shelves for nesting, including one as high as possible in the enclosure. The enclosure should be sturdy enough to protect against outside predators. If possible the aviary should be oriented toward the south or southwest, allowing for maximum sunlight. include in the housing a bath that the bird can use to clean itself. Certain breeds are adapted to free flight. You can provide them with a “dovecote,” which is a small structure that can be attached to the side of your house. Be aware, however, that your bird could be hunted by predators if permitted to fly freely. Purchase food. There are a variety of mixes that are designed for pigeons and doves. Pelleted diets are the best source of nutrients. Seed diets and other commercial mixes will require more supplementation. You can supplement the pigeons regular diet with lettuce, endive, chickweed, spinach, berries, apple, and pears. Providing the pigeon with grit and gravel will help it digest its food. Pet stores also sell vitamins and calcium supplements for birds that can help improve your pigeons health. Find a pigeon. Online you can find databases of local breeders.. Some locations also have issues with abandoned pigeons. That means you should be able find them at the local animal shelter. Either way, you should ask about the breed of pigeon and care specifications, because different breeds vary considerably in terms of needs and behavior. it is recommended that you meet a few pigeons beforehand to check for allergies, and make sure they meet your expectations. Judge whether or not the shelter is clean and the pigeons well cared for. If the pigeons are not well cared for, it might be difficult to socialize them. Keep the pigeon indoors at first. When you first purchase your pigeon, it's recommended that you keep it indoors, because this will help you bond with it. Because the pigeon doesn't have any companions, it is important that you be in close proximity to provide company. Your kitchen is not a suitable room to keep your pigeon because the fumes given off by non-stick frying pans are toxic to them. Bond with your pigeon. For the first few days, allow the pigeon to adjust - don't touch him, but talk frequently and stay nearby the cage. Slowly build up to petting the pigeon gently. Allow your pigeon to explore your house. Allow him to come out of the crate, preferably in an enclosed space such as a small room. If you repeat this daily, your pigeon will become calmer, and eventually you will be able to handle it. Spend time every day handling your pigeon; this will allow you to bond. Pigeons can carry diseases that can be transmitted to people such as psittacosis. So if you or someone in your house has a weak immune system, consider checking in with your physician to make sure it is OK to share the same air space as a pigeon. Washing your hands after handling the pigeon because pigeons are associated with carrying salmonella. Do not keep pigeons in close proximity to cats and dogs. Move your pigeon outside. Pigeons can live inside, but they enjoy living outside even more. It's recommended you build an enclosure to keep your pigeon in. Consult with the breeder as to whether your pigeon is capable of free flight. Get your pigeon a mate. Pigeons are monogamous and will mate with a significant other for life. However, they can also be territorial. To prevent confrontations, introduce the pigeons to one another slowly, keeping one inside to acclimate to its surroundings and become comfortable. | Consider the commitment. Purchase cages. Purchase food. Find a pigeon. Keep the pigeon indoors at first. Bond with your pigeon. Allow your pigeon to explore your house. Move your pigeon outside. Get your pigeon a mate. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Attract-a-Taurus-Man | How to Attract a Taurus Man | To attract a Taurus man, enjoy down-to-earth activities, like cooking, since he'll be happiest enjoying simple comforts close to home. However, you'll want to stay true to who you are since a Taurus man is slow to trust others and values honesty above all else. When it comes to money, have a sensible approach since he won't accept any useless or impractical purchases. In addition to having a practical financial sense, keep your home clean and organized since a Taurus man is neat and grounded. | Show your femininity. While you need to be strong and confident to gain his respect, he also needs a woman with a definite feminine side. A Taurus man loves to be surrounded by your femininity. He really appreciates beauty, and will expect his woman to be beautiful. If you want to attract him, take the time to look good! And while we're at it, be classy. The Taurean man wants a woman with refined taste -- someone who appreciates good music, good wine, and good art, to name a few. Be sure to dress this way too; you don't want to give it all away too soon! Get your life in order. A Taurus hates disarray, and won't give in to a messy lifestyle. Show him that this comes naturally to you and he'll be automatically smitten. Taurus are neat, organized, and grounded, they will enjoy if you're likewise. If you invite Taurus to your home, organize it! He'll appreciate your attention to detail in everything—down to your spice racks. He'll notice what lengths you go to to keep your life organized and he'll consider you a kindred soul. Think practical when it comes to money. These men have an eye for money, and won't accept useless and impractical use of it. If you are sound financially, you can get his attention. He is very practical and knows when his dollar is worth it. And definitely don't be careless with his! That being said, they know when something of quality is worth it. You don't need to cut corners, but do know when certain things are frivolous and unnecessary. Stay true to yourself. Be truthful to him. He will appreciate your honesty, which is a trait he really wants in a lady. He's not quick to trust, so any lying will not be tolerated in the slightest. Be honest about the image you put forward, too. If you're not clean, you're gonna have to come clean. If you're not super ladylike, don't put up a front. Be you. If he doesn't like it, he doesn't like it. You can't keep up a facade forever; eventually, he will find out. When he does, he won't be happy. So don't act as you are not it in the first place! Prefer down-to-earth activities. Taurus men are family men; they prefer to be in the comfort and warmth of their own home, with good food and good company. You will smite his heart if you are a good cook. They are down-to-earth and calm, so avoid making drastic changes or spontaneous plans. Keep it practical. Don't worry about coming off as lame! Have him over for a dinner you made yourself. He'll be impressed by your resourcefulness, your skill, and your femininity. A woman who asks him to dinner who's attractive and competent in the kitchen? That's a win for any man! Make a move. Many mistake the bull for being a bit aloof and cold. It's not that he is unhappy with his surroundings, it's just that he keeps his emotions on the inside and tries to be practical at all times. So he may be interested in you, but you may not know it! You may have to make your move -- or you could be waiting for a while! You don't have to do something super extravagant -- again, inviting him over to dinner would be super impressive to him. And no need to swarm him with your intensity either; a simple cup of coffee will show him you find him intriguing. Be sensual. A Taurus man loves a cozy, cuddly, inviting atmosphere. He adores staying at home to just be with a woman -- you. Dress subtly alluring in public and more alluring in private. Your Taurus Man will appreciate it, knowing it's just for him. Show him you're physically interested without making too much of a show of it. Graze his shoulders as you pass, lightly massage his arm, keep him aware of your touch until he has no choice but to break out of his cage. Show some mutual respect. In the end, Taurus wants a relationship where there's mutual respect. The idea is to respect him as a builder -- he'll, in turn, respect you in your own right. Handle conflict with a delicate hand and he'll respond. Taurus are natural leaders and they love to take charge. Guidance and support will work better than confrontation. The Taurean man has enough issues with his own temper, much less anyone else's. Take your time. A Taurus is slow to change. He likes routine and doesn't like change. If you try to change him, remember, you are angering a BULL! Try to roll with his flow. If you don't understand something, just ask! He'll gladly include you in his routine if you show that you're trying to understand and share in something that matters to him. He likes planning, too. If you're overcome with brilliant ideas, run them by him before you start implementing them. He'll probably be able to bring you back down to Earth and actually get things done! Be patient. The Taurean man likes to feel out his adventures. He needs to wrap his mind around the factors at play -- and that includes relationships. So with this one, you'll need to put on your patient hat and relax for a bit. Let the relationship grow without pressuring it. If he didn't like you, he wouldn't stick around! This goes for his time, too. Taurus does his routine and he sticks with it. If you interrupt that, he won't be thrilled. If there's something he needs to do, let him do it. Then he'll be all yours when he's finished. Consider the Taurus's nature. It's important to sit down and be a tad bit realistic. A Taurus is very protective and is often jealous, like his opposite, Scorpio. If your sign happens to be Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Aquarius, Libra, or Gemini, you may have to forget about getting along with a Taurus, much less attracting him. His overbearing nature will be too stuffy for you. Make sure your sign meshes well with his! If he can handle his bull-headedness, his need for routine, and his need to lead, by all means! This could be a relationship that lasts a very, very long time. But if these are factors that you can't see yourself tolerating long-term, try not to get your heart twisted in a bunch. He can make for a good fling, but little else. Develop a routine together. Taurus likes his routine and his woman will need to be a part of it. So carve out a space for yourself! Make him part of your routine and vice versa. The deeper ingrained you two become in each other, the harder it'll be to break. This does not, by any stretch of the imagination, mean that you two have to be involved in every aspect of each others' lives. No, no, no. It simply means to have routine hobbies and activities that you two do together that you can depend on. Stir Friday. Bowling league. Saturday morning mimosas. You each still need your own life! But each other has their definite, solid part. Practice nonviolent communication and work with his ego. Sometimes men can get pretty defensive when it comes to their manhood, and Taurus is no different -- in fact, he may be the cause for this gender stereotype. His pride and ego dominate a large facet of his nature -- if you attack this, he will not be happy. Make sure allow him to lead you on occasion -- he'll love it and love you for it. There are delicate ways to do everything. If you two are fighting, this does not mean backing down and saying, "You're right, honey. I'm sorry." (Unless he is right, of course.) It means saying, "I don't understand what this has to do with that. Can you explain it to me?" With Taurus, a certain amount of tact will get you a long, long way. Know you may need to draw him out. If you're looking for a man that will shower you with adoration, Taurus isn't it. Sure, he's very capable of being affectionate, but he may take his precious time. If you can muster it, be patient. Show him you're comfortable being caring and demonstrative and he will echo you back. Don't be discouraged if he's not as caring as you'd like him to be. If it's an issue, address it! He'll value your honesty and straightforwardness. Give him a while to come around to the idea. He's worth the wait, you know? Work on trusting each other. Along with being aloof and slow to make his move, Taurus can be a bit untrusting. He's very much so of the mantra "If you want something done right, you do it yourself." This leaks into his romantic relationships too, where he's used to doing his own thing. However, over time, if you show him you're trustworthy and responsible, he'll see it makes sense to let his guard down. That's when you know you've won Taurus's heart. If you're all these things: honest, practical, diplomatic, and patient—there will be no issue. Trust will just fall into place! Make it clear that your loyalty lies with him and only him; if he trusts you, he'll show it back. That means he's in it to win it! | Show your femininity. Get your life in order. Think practical when it comes to money. Stay true to yourself. Prefer down-to-earth activities. Make a move. Be sensual. Show some mutual respect. Take your time. Be patient. Consider the Taurus's nature. Develop a routine together. Practice nonviolent communication and work with his ego. Know you may need to draw him out. Work on trusting each other. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Hair-Extensions-Out | How to Take Hair Extensions Out | To take taped or glued hair extensions out, start by clipping or tying your hair into sections. Then, gently rub some olive oil, coconut oil, or baby oil onto a section of glue or tape and let it sit for 15 minutes so it can break down the bonds in the adhesive. After 15 minutes, rinse the oil out, work conditioner into the roots of that section, and wrap your hair in a towel to help the remaining adhesive break down. Let the conditioner sit for 20 minutes, then use a wide-tooth comb to gently brush out your extensions. Finally, repeat with the rest of the sections. | Gather all of your hair into a ponytail. Take all of your natural hair as well as any extensions and pull them together into one or two hair ties or big hair clips at the top of your head. If you can, try to group your natural hair and your extensions in separate clips. Separate a section of your hair from the ponytail. It will be too overwhelming to try and rip out all of your extensions at once, so you want to pull out separate rows of hair at a time. Start with a small section at the base of your head at the nape of your neck. Use a rat tail comb, or a comb with a long pointed end, to pull out an even section of hair. Start at the bottom of your head and gradually let down your ponytail so you can keep track of where you've already removed extensions. Use your fingers to find the end of a thread and snip it out. Your extensions will be pulled snug against your scalp with a thread. Lightly run your fingertips along the ridge of the braid or seam where the extension was sewn to find the end. Use needle nose scissors or manicure scissors to isolate the thread from your hair and cut it. Use a mirror to find the end of the thread or ask a friend to locate it so you cut the thread and not your natural hair. You may still end up cutting 2-3 strands of your natural hair out if it has grown out around the seam. Be careful and use the end of your scissors to cut the thread. This will help keep you from cutting too much of your hair. The thread should be pretty loose, so it should not be hard to distinguish between it and your hair. Unravel the thread away from your scalp. Use both hands to gently pull the extension away from your scalp. One hand should hold your natural hair roots to your scalp in order to prevent breaking or damaging your hair. With your other hand, firmly grasp the extension thread and lightly pull it in the opposite direction to unravel the sewing. Work your fingernails or a thin object like a nail file to wiggle in between the braid to help loosen the seam. You may need to cut another section of the thread if there are tangles of matting from your natural hair growing around the extension seam. Use a special hair products to dissolve the threads. Some extensions have threads that can be coated with a salon product that breaks down threads without damaging your natural hair. Spray a section of weave or extension thread with the solution and let it sit for a few minutes. Work from the bottom of your head to the top and use a wide toothed comb to pull any debris out of your hair when you're finished. Continue finding threads one by one and remove them. Gradually pull out a little of your ponytail to work on individual sections of your hair. Go slowly so that you don't miss any pieces of weave or extensions that may be hidden in your natural hair. It's better to be patient than to find a chunk of hair hanging by a thread later. If you have extension pieces that are not damaged or ragged, set them aside. They may be able to be reused another time. Unravel and comb out your natural hair. Once you're finished taking the thread out, unravel any cornrows or other braids that were used to secure your extensions. Then use a wide toothed comb to make sure that you have removed all artificial hair or materials, Comb from the top to the bottom of your hair and go from one side of your head to the other. Spray hair detangling solution on any tangles or pieces that are proving to be difficult to remove. Shampoo and condition your hair afterwards. Your hair needs some time to heal itself after the stress of artificial products. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo and then use a deep conditioner to help put nutrients back into your hair and scalp. Wait at least two weeks before putting more extensions in your hair to let your roots recover. As you wash your hair, be on the lookout for any extension remnants that may have slipped through your notice. Pull your hair together with a large clip or hair band. A ponytail will help keep you organized as you work on finding each keratin bond. Some bonds may be obvious and some may be more difficult to find so you want to work on a small piece of your scalp at a time to avoid missing anything. Untie a section of your hair starting at the nape of your neck. Use your index finger or the thin end of a salon comb to pull out an even row of hair at the bottom of your head. If you encounter any tangles, pull out a little more hair from your ponytail so you can work on the larger section all together. Don't try to remove several hair extensions at once. You'll be able to remove hair extensions much more easily and safely if you work slowly and diligently. Crimp the bonds with pliers to loosen and break them. Isolate one keratin bond and use needle nose pliers to squeeze the bond. The bond will crack when enough force is applied and it will be easier to release your natural hair from it. After the first crack, move the pliers around the bond and squeeze a different section of it to weaken more of the bond. Crush the bond as many times as needed to loosen its grip on your natural hair. Lightly twist the pliers if you have stubborn bonds but be careful not to pull hair out of your scalp. After removing all of your extensions, some of the cracked bond may still be in your hand if it shattered, so use a fine toothed comb to weed out any debris. Simply brushing your hair will not help to remove keratin bonds. Instead, it will damage your natural hair and roots. Rub oil on the keratin bonds. Use your fingertips and rub any combination of olive, coconut, baby, or almond oil into the cracks of the bonds you created with the pliers. Let the oil seep in and sit for 10-15 minutes. The oil will break down the keratin and allow you to pull or gently comb the extensions out. Instead of a household oil, use a specifically designed keratin bond remover from a salon or beauty supply store. A small amount of acetone or other alcohol-based gel on the bond can help as well. Just use a small dab so that you don't damage your scalp with too much alcohol. Heat the bonds with a hair dryer. To help speed up the chemical process of applying oil to the bonds, blow dry your hair on a low setting. Anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes will be helpful as heat makes bonds more malleable and easy to slip off. Pull your natural hair away from the bond. Keep in mind that as you pull on the keratin bonds, you want to keep your natural hair from being pulled with the keratin bond. Hold your scalp and the base of your roots with one hand while you lightly pull the bond with the other hand. If you feel too much of a pull on your scalp, try re-cracking the bonds and applying more oil. Comb your hair with a wide toothed comb and then a fine toothed comb. Use a combination or combs or brushes to help pick out any leftover bonds or extension leftovers. Overall, combs work better than brushes since they have stiffer teeth but a metal brush can also work as well. Wash and treat your natural hair. Take a shower and use a clarifying shampoo and deep conditioner to help restore your hair, roots, and scalp. Clarifying shampoos will help remove the excess olive oil as well as remaining glue from the weave while the conditioner replenishes any nutrients a harsh alcohol or chemical may have stripped away. Separate your hair into workable sections. Use a hair clip or tie to pull all of your hair together except for one section. Find the first and closest section of artificial hair at the bottom of your head. You want to start at the bottom and work your way up so you know where you've already removed extensions. Let oil sit on a section of glue or tape for 15 minutes. Oil helps break up any chemical bonds from glue or tape. Use either almond oil, coconut oil, baby oil, olive oil, or a hair salon product specifically for removing extensions. Dab or gently rub the oil into the extension bond and wait for the bond to break down. The oil needs time to seep into the bonds to break them down. Wait at least 15 minutes or even more time for thick tape or glue bonds. Make sure you set aside time to remove your extensions. You don't want to be caught off guard with half a head of fake hair that you didn't have time to finish removing. Wrap your hair in a towel and conditioner to break down remaining glue. Rinse your hair thoroughly and then coat your entire head in conditioner. Work the conditioner into your roots and the tape or glue bonds. Wrap your head in a towel and wait 20 minutes. After unwrapping, use a wide toothed comb to gently comb out your extensions. This can help remove stubborn bonds if using oil did not remove your extensions completely. Comb from the tips of your hair and work your way up to the roots so that you don't tangle you natural and fake hair together, which makes combing out the fake hair more difficult and painful. Repeat to get all of the glue out. For each section, it may take several repetitions of applying oil or wrapping your hair in a towel to remove all of the glue. Work through each section of hair entirely before letting down another section of your from your ponytail or hair clip. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo and nourishing conditioner afterward. Even after repeated treatments, you may still have some small bits of glue left in your hair. These will work their way out gradually over a few days to a few weeks. Remove one clip at a time. Squeeze the clip and gently pull it away from your natural hair. Hold your natural hair against your scalp to prevent pulling or stressing your roots. Be careful not to let the clip snap on your fingers if the teeth are sharp. Work in sections around your head if you have more than one clip in. When reapplying clip-in extensions, be sure to reposition them in different spots on your head. This will allow your scalp to relax from any wear and tear. Take out temporary extensions before sleeping or showering. Remove clip-in extensions before bed because they will cause your scalp discomfort, even on the softest pillow. Also, if your temporary extensions cannot be washed with regular shampoo or conditioner like natural hair, always be sure to take them out before showering. Lay your extensions out on a towel overnight or hang them up so that they stay straight. Comb your fake hair once it's removed to prevent any tangling in storage. Spritz hair with water to release difficult tangles. Moisture can help detangle any chunks of matted hair that have worked their way around clip-in extensions. Use a combination of a wide toothed comb and a spray bottle of water or a hair detangling product to coax the clips out. If your temporary extensions cannot get wet, do not dampen them. | Gather all of your hair into a ponytail. Separate a section of your hair from the ponytail. Use your fingers to find the end of a thread and snip it out. Unravel the thread away from your scalp. Use a special hair products to dissolve the threads. Continue finding threads one by one and remove them. Unravel and comb out your natural hair. Shampoo and condition your hair afterwards. Pull your hair together with a large clip or hair band. Untie a section of your hair starting at the nape of your neck. Crimp the bonds with pliers to loosen and break them. Rub oil on the keratin bonds. Heat the bonds with a hair dryer. Pull your natural hair away from the bond. Comb your hair with a wide toothed comb and then a fine toothed comb. Wash and treat your natural hair. Separate your hair into workable sections. Let oil sit on a section of glue or tape for 15 minutes. Wrap your hair in a towel and conditioner to break down remaining glue. Repeat to get all of the glue out. Remove one clip at a time. Take out temporary extensions before sleeping or showering. Spritz hair with water to release difficult tangles. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Rock-Climb | How to Rock Climb | To rock climb, always use your legs to push yourself up instead of pulling up with your arms since your legs are stronger and less likely to tire out. You should also try to keep your hips close to the wall by pointing your knees outward, which will limit the strain you're putting on your fingers. Additionally, remember to scan for resting points often so you can briefly relax and plan the next part of your route. Once you get the hang of it, try to maintain a steady rhythm by alternating between your feet and hands. | Head to a rock gym or bouldering gym to safely learn basic skills and safety. You can also boulder outdoors, but you'll need to find out about safe, established bouldering sites before getting on a rock. Moreover, outdoor sites are usually more difficult, and require guides and deeper knowledge of rock formations. Rock gyms are safe, well-designed spaces for a variety of skill levels, and they often have classes and staff to help you learn. In general, you have two options starting out: Bouldering routes are short rock climbing problems that don't require harnesses or ropes, and are a fantastic way to build your climbing skills safely, without complex introductions to belaying or equipment. Since these problems require no ropes certain constraints that come with roped climbing are avoided. Bouldering routes are great for learning to climb and are a fun way to climb although you lack the safety that you would have with a rope. Top-roping is what most people think of when they think of rock climbing. You're tied in and scaling a large wall. In order to top-rope you'll need a partner. If you're brand new to the sport, check with the staff about "belay partners," or boulder until you feel comfortable asking for a partner. Lead climbing is another common type of climbing used largely outdoors to ascend routes of different lengths. In lead climbing two climbers, or the “leader” and the “follower”, are tied in to opposite ends of a dynamic rope. The “leader” ascends first, clipping into bolts or placing their own protection periodically. When they reach the top of that section of the climb, or the “pitch”, the leader sets up their Personal Anchor System, and belays the “follower” up. Lead climbing is a more advanced form of rock climbing and requires detailed training and practice. Rent a pair of snug shoes and a chalk bag. Rock climbing shoes need to be snug so that you can feel the precise edges of the rock. They may feel uncomfortable at first, as the toes are often pointed in order to help you stay on small chips and edges, but you'll get used to them quickly. Just make sure they don't cut off circulation. It is common to wear shoes a size down from your standard shoe size. Chalk bags, while not necessary, are used to keep your hands dry -- essential for holding onto the rock as you get tired. Simply dip you fingers lightly in the chalk and clap them together so you have a light chalky dusting on your hands. Harnesses, clips, and belay devices are necessary if you're top-roping. The remainder of this section assumes you are already tied in, or are bouldering. Climb to the top of the wall or problem any way you can to get used to the sport. Most walls are marked by routes -- specific sets of rock that you must use to get to the top. While these are more challenging and fun for experts, you need to get comfortable with the height, the holds, and the general feel of climbing first. Ignore the tape marks and just head up the wall, working on the basics of your form. Once you're comfortable climbing, you're ready to start tackling some basic routes. To start, look for routes labeled 5.4 or 5.5 for top-roping or V0 or V1 for bouldering, which are good beginner ratings. (In Europe, Fontainebleau grades are commonly used. These grades start at 2a and goes up each number after each 'c' grade.) The fear of falling and the fear of heights are perfectly normal human instincts. Remember, however, that you have a bevy of safety equipment, padded floors, and a knowledgeable person holding you up. After your first few slips, you'll get used to it. Starting with an expert, even just a friend who climbs often, is a great way to break slowly into the sport. Push up from your legs instead of pulling up with your arms. This is the number one rule of good climbing, and the hardest thing to get used to. It feels natural to pull your body up the wall because your fingers feel like they're more firmly locked onto the holds. But your legs are much, much stronger muscles, and you'll tire out halfway up the wall if you're trying to do ten consecutive pull-ups. There are a couple of surefire tips to get accustomed to using your legs: Keep your arms extended. Let your weight hang low, gripping the hand holds purely for balance and bending your knees for power. Set your feet before moving your hands. Get good, solid footholds that you can put weight on. Keep your weight on your toes, not on your hands, by dropping your heels lower than your toes. Plan your moves in advance, putting your limbs in position for each move. If you're struggling to reach a handhold with your left hand, you don't have to become Mr. Fantastic to grab it. You need to move your left foot higher -- elongating your left side and making the reach easier. Climbing is a deliberate, thoughtful sport, and muscling up the wall will only get you so far. Stop to think about the best way up a route, or ask experienced climbers for advice. Learning to read a route from the ground, visualizing where your hands and feet will go in advance, is an essential skill you can never start practicing too soon. The more time you spend gripping the wall, unsure where to go, the more tired you'll get. The set of moves you use to get up a wall is called your "beta." Find good resting points to plan your route and relax your arms. Most routes have 1-2 spots where you can catch your breath and loosen your muscles. A good rest spot is anywhere you can comfortably stand with most of your weight on your feet. You should be able to take one arm comfortably off the wall to get chalk and stretch out. While resting: Plan out your next few moves. Memorize what footholds you have coming up and think about which limb you want to go where. If needed, ask someone at the bottom for advice. Re-chalk your hands. Chalk runs off on rocks, so get some more. Shake out your arms. Let them hang and give them a good shake to dislodge some of the lactic acid that has built up. Move deliberately up the wall. There are advanced moves that require speed, rapid precision, and even small leaps (called "dynos"), but these are for later in your career. For now, you want to focus on fluid motion. The best way to do this is to focus on each limb first, then move your body. Also known as "static climbing technique," you move each limb, get set, then move your body over into the new position. Think of yourself as a slinky, coiling and uncoiling up the wall. Set your feet, knees bent. Shift your body weight the direction you're headed. Step up with a foot while simultaneously grabbing a new hold with the matching hand. Re-set your feet and opposite hand. Repeat. Know that climbing muscles take some time to build. One of the biggest hurdles for new climbers is that they feel weak after only 1-2 runs. Your fingers will be sore and your forearms will be burning, so much so that you don't feel like you can even hold onto the wall anymore. This is natural, however -- your forearms are not frequently used at this intensity in everyday life. However, if you climb a few routes 2-3 times a week you'll quickly get over this hump and can focus on climbing technique, not how sore your arms are. Take rest breaks in between climbs. Don't get back on the wall until your feel rested again. Stretch your forearms by clasping your palms in front of your chest and elbows out as if you were praying. Slowly rotate your hands down until they point in front of you to stretch. Learn to tie in and belay with a trained supervisor. Belaying is not a difficult process, but it is an essential one if you're serious about climbing. Most climbing gyms will require you to take a supervised test before you're allowed to belay someone. They usually offer classes or free, quick lessons as well. You should always practice belaying with a trained expert. While belaying needs to be trained in person, however, you should know how to tie into your rope no matter what your skill level. Belaying is when someone stands below the climber with the rope. They catch them if they fall, give them more rope as they climb, and lower them down slowly when they finish. Attach your harness as snugly as possible. Whether climbing or belaying, your harness should be snug across your waist and thighs. Do no skimp on this -- tighten every buckle as much as your comfortably can. This includes the leg loops, which cannot be skipped. Create a figure-eight in the bottom of the rope, leaving roughly an arm's length at the bottom. This is frequently done for you at climbing gyms, but you should understand the process if it is not. There will be two identical strands of rope coming down from the top of the wall. Grab the one closest to the wall and measure out roughly an arm's length. From there: Gripping the rope at your "arm's length," drop the bottom of the rope. Holding it up, you should have an upside-down "U" shape in your hands. Pinch the two sides of the U to create a "bite," or small 1-2" loop. Wrap the bottom of your rope around the bite. You'll cross over your hand so that the end of the rope is back on your side of the bite. Thread the end of the rope through your bite hole. Pull the end of the role through to make your figure eight. Thread the end of the rope into your harness. This is how you tie in. While all harnesses are different, in general, you'll thread the rope through two loops in the front of your harness, also known as “hard points”. Later, you'll tie the end of the rope into your figure eight, effectively attaching yourself to the rope. Make sure that the rope goes through both loops-- the one on your legs and your waist, before tying in. Take the end of the rope and trace out your figure eight to make a figure eight follow-through. Once you're figure eight is made and you're attached to the rope, complete the tie-in by doubling up on your knot. To do so, you'll simply take then end of the rope in your hand and follow the shape of your figure eight, threading the end in, under, and over the rope to create a snug, secure double figure eight: Note the path of the rope coming back towards you, from your figure eight. Slide the end of your rope exactly the same way this rope runs so that you have parallel ropes. Trace the rope up and over, then back through the figure eight. Again, you're just trying to follow this rope line, create two parallel ropes for a double figure eight. When you're done, the end of the rope should be pointing forward, following the rope up the wall. Pull the rope tight and consider making a safety knot. Grip the both sides of the rope, two ropes at a time, and pull the knot tight. Use your fingers to push or mold the double figure eight so that you have parallel lines throughout with no crossing, twisting, or braiding. Most gyms require a simple safety knot as well, tying off the loose end. To do so: Place your thumb on the rope, roughly 2-3" above the figure eight. Grip the loose end in your other hand. Wrap the loose end over your thumb twice, making an X above your thumb. Wrap the end around one last time, then feed it through the hole where your thumb is. Pull the loose end tight to cinch the knot down. Check your knot for safety. There will be five pairs of parallel rope -- one before the knot, one after the knot, and three little segments in your double figure eight. Your double figure eight should look identical on the top and bottom, and the safety knot should be tight. There shouldn't be any crossed ropes. If there are, loosen the figure eight slightly and bend or move the ropes so that they are all parallel, then tighten it again. Always have an experienced climber check your ropes when you're first starting out. Communicate with your belayer before climbing. There is an almost universal code for climbers, and it is used to ensure that everyone is set and the safety measures are in place. Before you climb, you must always follow this protocol. However, some places use different climbing calls. You ask, "On Belay?" They reply, "Belay on." You get ready on the wall and say, "Climbing?" They respond, "climb on." Keep your hips close to the wall. Do this by pointing your knees to the side. The more you lean back, the more you rely on your fingers to hold you close to the wall. This drains your energy quickly and will almost definitely hurt your fingers over time. Instead, angle your knees away from the wall, almost like a frog, to keep your hips close to the wall. Whenever you need to push away to survey the route or grab another hold, make the movement quickly, then hug the way again to save energy. You want as much weight as possible on your feet at all times. Relax your grip. Frequently, during harder moves or when you get tired, you'll tend to grip the hold tightly. However, your hand holds are generally just there for balance. Remember, you want your feet to do most of the work, so loosen up your fingers. Trust them, almost hanging from them for balance, not to keep your weight on the wall. Your fingers are basically just balance hooks. As you get better, you'll encounter overhangs and moves that require some serious finger strength. However, you'll build this naturally as you progress towards harder climbs. Find your "dead point" when making big moves on the wall. The dead point is the spot when you transition from moving up to falling down. Basically, your momentum is shifting from a "jump" to a fall, and as such you don't move at all, making it easier to grab the hold. Not all moves are close enough that you can move slowly from one to the other. Sometimes you'll need to push off with your foot and grab the hold while on the move. Learning to grab it right when you hit your apex will greatly increase your fluidity on the wall. To practice, find a route with several holds just out of reach, or practice on the bouldering wall. Practice grabbing the hold with your arm extended so that you don't feel any drop as you grip it. Climb with rhythm. While this may change for some routes or crux moves, developing a rhythm is often the best way to conscientiously build good climbing habits. Think of moving with the feet first, going foot, foot, hand, hand, or foot, hand, foot, hand, up the entire wall. Start with some easy routes to get used to this. Because you're moving quickly, with your feet first, you'll naturally come to rely on your leg muscles and stop over-using and tiring your hands. Quick, focused climbing saves energy, as it prevents hanging on the wall and getting tired. Focus on your breathing as you move. Many people hold their breath as they try hard moves, but that just deprives your muscles of much-needed oxygen. As you develop a rhythm, breath into it as well so that you have regular, rhythmic breathing. Climb down a few routes. This is a great training exercise for your balance and route spotting. Most importantly, it focuses on landing your feet very precisely, making your footwork exponentially better. If you can use your feet effectively on the way down, you'll develop the skills needed to place your feet anywhere on the way up quickly. Increase your climbing pace while staying deliberate in your movements. Skilled climbers move quickly, as this saves energy wasted by holding onto a rock while deciding what to do. While you don't want to try scrambling up the rock, lunging wildly, you want to make your moves quickly. Once you've decided what to do -- do it. Don't wait around or keep shifting as you'll only lose energy and make the rest of the climb even harder. Watch other climbers to learn new moves and possible betas. The beta, or sequence of moves used, becomes increasingly important the harder the route gets. While beginners generally can choose 4-5 ways up a route, difficult routes (5.10 and up) sometimes only have 1-2 sets of moves that can be used. Frequently, they aren't always that obvious. There are hundreds of moves, techniques, and little tricks that can be used for specific problems, but the rock climbing community is luckily a very inclusive one. Watch other climbers, pantomiming the moves from the ground to get used to hand positioning. If you're struggling on a route, ask another climber for advice. Your belay partner may have a great view from the ground, for example, of a move or hold you're missing. | Head to a rock gym or bouldering gym to safely learn basic skills and safety. Rent a pair of snug shoes and a chalk bag. Climb to the top of the wall or problem any way you can to get used to the sport. Push up from your legs instead of pulling up with your arms. Plan your moves in advance, putting your limbs in position for each move. Find good resting points to plan your route and relax your arms. Move deliberately up the wall. Know that climbing muscles take some time to build. Learn to tie in and belay with a trained supervisor. Attach your harness as snugly as possible. Create a figure-eight in the bottom of the rope, leaving roughly an arm's length at the bottom. Thread the end of the rope into your harness. Take the end of the rope and trace out your figure eight to make a figure eight follow-through. Pull the rope tight and consider making a safety knot. Check your knot for safety. Communicate with your belayer before climbing. Keep your hips close to the wall. Relax your grip. Find your "dead point" when making big moves on the wall. Climb with rhythm. Climb down a few routes. Increase your climbing pace while staying deliberate in your movements. Watch other climbers to learn new moves and possible betas. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Look-Sexy-if-You-Are-Big | How to Look Sexy if You Are Big | The media may tell you that you need to be skinny to look good, but you can absolutely be sexy if you're big! Instead of hiding your shape with baggy clothing, choose outfits that fit you well, which will be more flattering. For instance, try wearing high-waisted jeans and a crop top or a fit-and-flare dress with heels for a casual but sexy outfit. Stand tall with your shoulders back, which will make you look more confident. If you like to wear makeup, try out a smoky eye and filled-in eyebrows. Alternatively, just swipe on a little red lipstick for an instantly sexy look. | Embrace your curves. Don't try to hide your tummy or drown your body in a sea of fabric. Wear clothes that are fitted to your shape. Don't be afraid to wear a bodycon dress or a form-fitting top. Love your curves and show them off in your sexiest outfits. Take time to research your coloring, face shape, and body shape, so you can pick out styles and colors that bring out your natural beauty. However, a fit and flare dress and a pair of heels will always be flattering. Show some skin. Lots of plus-size models have been rocking crop tops lately; try a crop top that shows off a layer of skin a few inches above your belly paired with a pair of high waisted jeans or a high waisted skirt. You should show off whatever body part you love about yourself, whether it's your stomach, your butt, or your legs. You'll feel and look sexiest when you're showing the skin you love. Tailor your clothes. If you find a piece of clothing you love but it doesn't fit quite perfectly, bring it to a tailor to have it fitted specifically for you. You can get some garments tailored for under $20. Sometimes it's good to buy a few pieces of clothing that fit really well rather than having many pieces of clothing that don't look quite right. It's not your fault for not “fitting” into clothes; the garment should fit you! Wear bold makeup. Go for a dramatic smoky eye with black eyeliner, dark eyeshadow, and mascara. Fill in or accentuate dark, bold eyebrows. Unless the bold, red lip makes you feel sexier, opt for a toned-down, subtle pink lip, where only the bottom lip is lined. Use blush from your cheekbone to your temple to define your face even more. Accessorize subtly. Don't feel the need to over-accessorize. Some stylists recommend going for a bold print instead of a statement necklace. Try wearing a subtle pair of earrings or a few thin rings. You could also wear a simple pendant if you are wearing a simple top with a high neckline. Use good posture. Good posture helps you look and feel more confident. Pull your shoulders back, let your back be straight and tall, and be proud of who you are. Good posture can even up your testosterone, making you even more confident. You'll feel more empowered, and you will act like it, too! Think about your best moments. Picture a moment when you were your best self: captivating, confident, and sexy. Take a few minutes to breathe deeply and envision this moment. Think about how future situations, such as a party you plan to attend or a job interview you will have soon, could also involve your best self. You'll feel and be more confident. Look in the mirror and find things you love. When you look at yourself in the morning, find a few things you like about yourself. Consciously think about those things. You will focus more on the good parts of yourself than the parts of your body you're not as happy about. Don’t let negativity in. Society often criticizes big women for unfair reasons. They erroneously think that big women can't be healthy, happy, or stylish. Understand that these comments are hurtful but not true. Find support from other plus-size women in your life to offset these negative comments with positivity and compliments. Limit your exposure to unrealistic portrayals of women in media. Too often, the media show us only models and celebrities who are thin. Remember that most models are airbrushed, and their photos are retouched before they're printed in magazines or put on the Internet. Follow some plus-size fashionistas on Instagram to get more style inspiration and see beautiful, plus-size women feeling beautiful in their skin. Look at body positivity campaigns, such as Selfridges' “Incredible Machines” campaign or Dove's Self Esteem Project Eat healthy, yummy foods. You don't have to live off of kale and quinoa, but you should nourish your body. Make a plan to eat healthy and try to stick to it. Here are some tips for making sure you have a balanced diet: Get about a third of your calories from proteins, like lean meat, nuts, and beans. Eat fruits and vegetables with every meal. Stay hydrated. Drink water as much as you can. Try not to drink too much alcohol. Eat what you want, but eat it all in moderation. You can have some ice cream, but keep the portion size relatively small. Exercise three or four times per week. Even if you don't want to lose weight, you will feel sexy and healthy if you commit to exercising a few times per week. Exercising is great for toning your body. You could try yoga, pilates, strength training, a spin class, a jog, or even a brisk walk If you can exercise for 20 to 30 minutes at once, you are in better shape than an unfit thin person. Just because you are plus-size does not mean that you can't be in shape. Find ways to make exercise fun: walks with loved ones, backyard sports, playing in the pool, and hiking. Sleep well. Good sleep can help to keep your memory sharp, make you more creative, help you live longer, prevent depression, and keep you at a healthy weight. Make sure that you're sleeping well every night. Here are some tips to help you sleep better: Take melatonin before you go to bed. Melatonin supplements naturally help you fall and stay asleep faster. Turn off all of your screens (cell phone included) an hour before you go to bed. Do not do anything in your bed except for sleep and have sex. If you're watching TV or doing a crossword puzzle, move away from your bed. Don't drink caffeine in the afternoon. | Embrace your curves. Show some skin. Tailor your clothes. Wear bold makeup. Accessorize subtly. Use good posture. Think about your best moments. Look in the mirror and find things you love. Don’t let negativity in. Limit your exposure to unrealistic portrayals of women in media. Eat healthy, yummy foods. Exercise three or four times per week. Sleep well. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Hamster%27s-Teeth | How to Clean a Hamster's Teeth | You can help your hamster keep its teeth clean by feeding it hard foods like store-bought pellet food or seed mixture. You should only be giving your hamster soft foods if it has some kind of dental disease that makes it hard for it to chew. Snacking on hard foods is another way to keep your hamster's teeth healthy, so feel free to give it raw fruits and vegetables full of nutrients. Try giving it a dog biscuit as a treat every once in a while too, because the hardness with help keep its teeth short. When it's not eating, your hamster should be gnawing on chew toys or even a small nylon dog bone to keep its teeth at a healthy length. | Start with the right food. Feed your hamster a hard food, such as a store-bought pellet food or seed mixture. There are many different varieties available at pet stores that are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of hamsters. Avoid feeding your hamster soft foods unless he has some kind of dental disease that makes it difficult to chew. Don't give your hamster any food that has been ground up, as the small particles can get stuck between his teeth, causing cavities. Offer healthy snacks. You should also supplement your hamster's diet with healthy snacks like raw fruits and vegetables. These provide nutrients, and the hard texture also helps promote good dental health. Be very cautious when purchasing store-bought treats for hamsters. Some of them contain sugar, which can cause dental problems like tooth decay. You should also not give your hamster any human foods that may contain added sugar. It's best to stick to fruits and vegetables! The occasional dog biscuit makes a great treat for hamsters. Dog biscuits are hard enough to help hamsters keep their teeth short, and they also contain lots of calcium, which is a vital nutrient that helps keep teeth strong. Provide chew toys. Hamsters love to chew, and doing so keeps their teeth filed down to a healthy length. Make sure to put a few different items in the cage for your hamster to gnaw on. There are a wide variety of chew toys for hamsters to choose from at pet stores. Some hamsters also enjoy chewing on the nylon bones that are sold at pet stores for dogs. Not all kinds of wood are healthy for hamsters to chew on. Avoid giving your hamster any wood that has been treated with pesticides or finishes. Some woods also splinter too much, so it's best to stick to small branches from fruit bearing trees if you don't want to use store-bought chew toys. Prevent your hamster from getting bacteria in his mouth. There are a lot of bacteria in the human mouth, and it is possible to pass these bacteria on to hamsters by kissing them or sharing food with them. If you avoid doing these things, you will help keep your hamster's mouth free of bacteria that can cause issues like tooth decay. Restrain your hamster. Before you attempt to inspect your hamster's teeth, it is important to make sure you have him properly restrained so that he can't escape or bite you. Try holding back the skin on the scruff of his neck, which will cause the corners of his mouth to turn up into a smile, making it easier for you to examine his mouth. Be careful not to hold onto the scruff too tightly or your hamster may become uncomfortable. Check for other dental problems. Some hamsters have problems with the alignment of their incisors (the front teeth). This is because a hamster's incisors never stop growing. The top and bottom teeth are supposed to rub against each other. This friction and the friction of chewing helps to keep a hamster's teeth from becoming overgrown. If your hamster's teeth are naturally crooked or if one of them breaks, the teeth may become too long. This is a serious condition that can cause severe pain and prevent your hamster from being able to eat. If you do notice that your hamster's incisors seem misaligned or overgrown, see a veterinarian for advice. The condition may require regular trimming of the teeth, which should be done at the veterinarian's office with a special tool. Pay special attention to the shape and length of the incisors. You should be able to see broken or misaligned teeth without having to restrain your hamster. See a veterinarian. Always bring your hamster to the vet if you have any reason to believe that he is suffering from some kind of dental problem. The vet can perform and in-depth exam and let you know exactly what you need to do to address your hamster's condition. Signs of dental problems include drooling, weight loss, bad breath, and a change in appetite. You should also be aware of the color of your hamster's teeth. While yellow is normal and healthy, dark brown or black is not. | Start with the right food. Offer healthy snacks. Provide chew toys. Prevent your hamster from getting bacteria in his mouth. Restrain your hamster. Check for other dental problems. See a veterinarian. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Pond | How to Make a Pond | To make a pond, start by digging a hole several feet deep and as wide as you want your finished pond to be. Next, line the hole with a layer of sand, then a layer of pond underlay or burlap, and finally a large piece of waterproof pond liner. Once the pond is lined, fill it with water up to the edge. Then, cut a 6 inch trench around the perimeter of the pond, tuck in the edges of the pond liner, and refill the trench with topsoil. You can also place rocks or plants around the edge of your pond for a natural look. | Decide what kind of pond you want. What function will it serve? Think about the features you'd enjoy most as you begin constructing plans. The most common backyard ponds fall into one of the following categories. A wildlife pond is perhaps the easiest type of pond to construct. It doesn't require a pump, so it needn't be close to a source of electricity. A wildlife pond is built to look like a natural part of the landscape. Because it isn't stocked with fish, it is attractive to frogs, slugs, water sliders, and other animals that may come to it to have a drink or bathe away. A garden pond is more ornamental in appearance. Garden ponds typically have lily pads and other aquatic plants, and are built to complement the design of one's garden. Artfully arranged stones, small pump-based waterfalls, and a smattering of goldfish are often features of garden ponds. Choose a location for your pond. Most ponds do best in spots that get mixed sun and shade, since this environment allows plants to grow and keeps algae at bay. You may want to locate the pond in a place you can see from your home, so you can enjoy it even in cold or rainy weather. If you're constructing your pond in the backyard, the first thing to do is call your gas and electric company and ask them to come to your house and mark the locations of your gas and electric lines, so you'll know not to dig in those spots. If you have a larger property, other considerations may be involved. Call the Department of Agriculture to find out if there are places on your property that are protected watersheds, and ask if there are any other local regulations you should know about before you begin digging. Don't choose a spot too close to trees, as you may damage their root systems. Consider the size and depth of your pond. If you live in a wet region, such as in the eastern region of the United States, your pond can be just a few feet wide and deep. If you're in a dryer regions, like the southwest region of the US, a shallow pond will evaporate quickly. Conduct research to find out what depth makes sense for your region. Larger ponds are easier to to maintain. They're more stable, so plants and other wildlife have a better chance of survival. Use a rope to lay out the shape of your pond and get a sense of the size you want. Keep it in place to guide you as you begin to dig. Dig the pond. For a small size pond, digging with a shovel should be sufficient. Keep these factors in mind as you dig: Since you want to facilitate the growth of wildlife, your pond should be deep enough that it won't freeze solid over the winter. If you're in an area that gets cold, you'll want to dig the pond several feet deep so that the animals living there can live overwinter. One side of the pond should have a gradual slope, a beach of sorts, so that animals that wander in will be able to make their way out. Animals can drown in ponds with steep cliffs on every side. Reserve the topsoil in a pile as you dig. You'll be using this later when you edge the pond. When you're finished digging, remove sharp rocks from the hole. Line the pond. First line the pond with a layer of sand, making sure to cover every crevice. Next add a layer of biodegradable or man-made materials. You can use newspapers or burlap, but biodegradable materials may rot in time, effectively leaving you with no protection other than the layer of sand. Stones may force their way up through this sand layer and damage the liner. So consider non-biodegradable material such as specialist pond underlay as an option. When you've placed this layer down, cover it with a large piece of waterproof pond liner. Different types of waterproof pond liners are available at home improvement stores, and often at garden stores. Fill the pond. Use a hose to fill the pond up to the edge, making sure to stop before it overflows.You may also fill the pond with collected rainwater if you'd prefer not to use pumped water. Trim the overlapping liner back to about eight to ten inches (20 to 25 cm). Create a slit around the edge of the pond. Lift back the pond liner and use a spade to cut a 6-inch (16 cm) slit into the earth around the entire pond. Insert the spade a few inches into the slit, maneuver it so it is parallel to the ground, and gently lift the grass around the entire slit, creating a sort of grass flap around the entire pond. Now lift back the grass flap and tuck the edges of the pond liner into the slit, replacing the grass flap over the top to conceal the slit as you go. This gives the pond a “natural” edge, which will be inviting to the wildlife in your area. Add water from a local natural pond. Take a few empty milk gallons or other closed containers to a healthy pond nearby. Look for a natural pond that has been there for many years, as opposed to a neighbor's backyard pond. Fill the containers with pond water, taking care not to capture any fish in the process. Return to your pond and add the natural pond water, which contains bacteria and microscopic animals that will help establish your pond as a more natural water source for wildlife. Watch as your pond grows “wild. ” Your pond will change over time, attracting bugs and other creatures as it develops nutrients. Don't mow the area around your pond; instead, let wild grasses grow. Don't introduce fish to the pond for several years. Their presence will prevent the pond from attracting frogs, snails, and other wildlife. Create a muddy pond bottom by dumping the topsoil back into the pond. You may plant reeds and other natural aquatic plants, such as water lilies, to help facilitate the growth of other wildlife. Just be sure to monitor it to keep it from becoming stagnant, as this could lead to a foul smell and increased mosquito activity. Dig the pond. A garden pond often has multiple levels, to facilitate a waterfall and provide a place for a pump. If you choose to install electric devices the pond should be located close enough to your home that you'll have access to electricity. Use a shovel to dig a large hole according to the size and depth you have chosen. If you plan to install a pump, dig a second deeper hole of about 10 inches at the center of the pond. Create a second level for aquatic plants by digging a shallower shelf around the perimeter of the pond. You may also use a preformed pond shape, available at garden stores. These are often shaped like a bean and have multiple levels. If you're using a preformed pond, adjust the hole you dig to its proportions. Line the pond. First line the pond with a layer of sand, making sure to cover every crevice. Next add a layer of biodegradable materials, such as newspapers or burlap. Cover this layer with a large piece of waterproof pond liner. This should cover the entire pond and the edges around it. Install the pump and other devices. If you're including a pump, install it in the deeper center pit so that the hose extends to the surface of the pond. You may also install a filter or a skimmer. Consult with the manufacturer of the device you choose for detailed instructions on how to install it. Always make sure the pump is on its own circuit and plugged into a GFCI receptacle. Do not put the pump directly on the ground as this will make the pump subject to dirt and debris that falls into the pond because it is in the deepest area. Elevate the pump with a bucket or a garden pot by at least 3 in. (8.62 cm). Edge the pond. Trim pond liner so that it overlaps the edge of the pond by about eight inches (20 cm). Dig a shallow shelf under the liner, lay the liner edges flat, and set heavy, flat stones on top of the liner around the edge of the pond. Large stones and flagstone work well for this purpose. Make sure the stones are set a few inches into the ground, so that they will be level with the surface of the pond when it is filled. If the stones are large and heavy, it is not necessary to mortar them. If you're using smaller, lighter stones, you may want to add mortar to prevent them from coming loose when people stand at the pond's edge. If you're installing a waterfall device, it is attractive to surround it with stones. Be creative here: you may create patterns with stones, or use stones of varying shapes, sizes, and colors to accent your garden. Fill the pond. Use a hose to fill the pond about three quarters of the way full to prevent overflowing from water features when turned off. Test the pump and other electronic devices you installed to make sure they are working properly. Create an aquatic garden. Add lily pads, reeds, and other aquatic plants to your pond. Every plant has individual requirements, so make sure the environment you have created is the right one for the plants you choose to grow. For example, some plants don't do well with movement, so they shouldn't be situated directly in the flow of a waterfall. Add a few goldfish. Go to your local pet store and buy some goldfish to add to the pond. Do some research to find out what types of plants they coexist well with. Don't add too many, or they may cause the aquatic plants to deteriorate. If you strike the right balance between plants and fish, you shouldn't need a filter in your pond. If you have a lot of fish, you might consider installing a filter to take care of their waste. Koi are different from goldfish, and they require a special kind of pond. Read How to Build a Koi Fish Pond for more information. | Decide what kind of pond you want. Choose a location for your pond. Consider the size and depth of your pond. Dig the pond. Line the pond. Fill the pond. Create a slit around the edge of the pond. Add water from a local natural pond. Watch as your pond grows “wild. Dig the pond. Line the pond. Install the pump and other devices. Edge the pond. Fill the pond. Create an aquatic garden. Add a few goldfish. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Exercise-Your-Dog | How to Exercise Your Dog | The best way to exercise your dog is to take it on a walk or to a park for at least 30 minutes every day. For a more engaging option, try playing fetch with a ball or toy in a field or other open space. If the weather's bad, you can also use a rope toy to play tug-of-war and fetch in your hallway or garage. Alternatively, you can have fun teaching your dog a new trick, such as rolling over, playing dead, or standing on its hind legs. | Play tug and fetch. A great indoor activity is tug-of-war. Buy a rope toy with knotted ends. Throw the rope and have your dog bring it back. While the rope is in its mouth, tug at the rope until your dog lets go. Then, throw it again. Play this game in a long hallway or in the garage. If you have stairs, throw the rope up the stairs for added intensity. Rotate toys to keep your dog interested. Do not play this game with toys that have ribbon, string, or parts that can be chewed off and ingested. Use food puzzles. Food puzzles, such as Kong-type toys or “busy boxes,” are a great way for your dog to release pent up energy indoors. They provide not only physical exercise, but mental exercise, as well. For example, place peanut butter or dog treats inside the Kong. Give your dog the Kong and let it retrieve the food from the Kong. Busy boxes are large cubes that have small spaces to hide treats in. Only by moving the box around with its nose, mouth, and paws can your dog get to the treats. Create an indoor obstacle course. Indoor obstacle courses are great indoor activities for dogs that require more mental and physical exercise. Create obstacles for your dog to navigate or jump over. Use treats to teach your dog to propel through the obstacle course. For example, use chairs as weave poles for your dog to navigate through. Or, line four chairs up and toss a blanket over the chairs to create a tunnel for your dog to run under. Place the treat at the end of the tunnel for your dog to retrieve. A broomstick fixed atop two buckets, or a hula hoop, are great for making hurdles for your dog to jump over or through. Exercise your dog on a treadmill. Use a treadmill to exercise your dog indoors when outside weather does not permit exercise. Acclimate your dog to the treadmill by letting it sniff the treadmill. Give your dog a treat for good behavior. Once your dog is comfortable with the treadmill, help your dog get on the treadmill. Start with a very low setting, and work your way up to the desired setting. You can buy treadmills that are specifically made for dogs online or at your local pet store. They also come in different sizes depending on the size of your dog. Teach your dog new tricks. Teaching your dog new tricks is a great way to exercise and promote mental health. Tricks are a great way to improve your dog's focus and mental acuity. Teach your dog to shake hands, roll over, play fetch, play dead, spin, or stand on its hind legs. Consult your vet. The amount of exercise your dog needs depends on its breed, its size, age, and health. Therefore, consult your vet about your dog's exercise needs. Your vet will tell you how much exercise your dog needs per day or week based on these factors. For example, German shepherds require daily, rigorous exercise, while sight hounds need short bursts of exercise daily. Take your dog to the dog park. Dog parks with shallow pools for your dog to wade in are extra great. If not, a regular dog park will do. At the dog park, your dog will be able to run around and meet and play with other dogs. You can also take a ball with you to play fetch with your dog. If your dog does not get along with other dogs, then play fetch in the backyard, or simply walk your dog in the neighborhood. Play fetch. Use a toy that your dog likes and is willing to put in its mouth. For some dogs it could be plush toy, while for others it could be a ball. Allow your dog to sniff and mouth the toy, and reward it for doing so. Then place the toy on the ground. Encourage your dog to pick up the toy. Place your hand under the toy in your dog's mouth and wait for it to drop the toy in your hand. Reward your dog for the correct behavior. Gradually increase the distance from where you place the toy on the ground and yourself. Make sure to reward your dog each time it displays the correct behavior. Walk your dog. You should generally walk adult dogs for at least 30 minutes a day. However, the actual amount of time you spend walking your dog can vary, and is dependent on breed, age, and size. When walking your dog, do not let your dog walk in front of you. You need to establish that you are the pack leader by walking in front of your dog. By establishing that you are pack leader, this will allow your dog to relax and enjoy the walk. Take your dog for a walk around the block, to the dog park, or to a regular park. Schedule a play date. Think about scheduling a play date with your dog's favorite friends. Plan to meet at the dog park, or have your dog's friends come over to play in the backyard. Sign-up for an agility class. If your dog requires more rigorous exercise, then perhaps you should sign it up for an agility class. The high-energy jumping and running that is done in these classes is not only great exercise, but it will also develop your dog's confidence and skill set. Sign your dog up for an agility class at your local pet store or dog training school. If your dog has never had any training before, then you will need to place your dog in an obedience class, first, and then work your way up to the agility class. Get in some pool time. Pool exercise is a great way to improve your dog's muscle strength and tone, promote cardiovascular health, and improve your dog's metabolic rate. Swimming is also a low impact exercise that is easy on your dog's joints. Bring your dog to a dog park that contains pools, or a swimming center that caters to dogs. Throw a ball or toy into the pool for your dog to fetch. You can also walk or trot your dog in a shallow pool, one where the water is at or below knee level. The resistance created by the water will strengthen your dog's muscles. Run with your dog. Running with your dog is a great way for you and your dog to get your daily exercise. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of the run over a few weeks. And be consistent; this means a daily, and not just a weekly, exercise routine. This will enable your dog (and you) to gradually build up its stamina. Before and after running, always warm up and cool down with a five-minute walk. Dogs tend to run in bursts, so let your dog sniff around, take a bathroom break, and absorb the scenery while you run together. Always run with your dog on a leash. Bike with your dog. Biking with your dog is a more serious and rigorous activity than running. Work up to biking by first running with your dog on a leash. Your dog will need to know the come , sit, and stay commands very well in order for you to bike with your dog. If your dog tends to chase squirrels or skateboards, then you may need to buy a special leash that attaches to your bike, like the Springer. If your dog pulls away, these devices absorb most of the force of sudden tugs. Explore a hiking trail together. Exploring a new hiking trail will engage your dog's body, as well as its mind. The new sights and sounds will provide mental stimulation, while the trail will provide physical stimulation. Choose a hiking trail that is appropriate for your dog's stamina and skills. For more active breeds, choose a trail that requires climbing, like hills and inclines. For breeds that are less active, choose a trail that is short (in duration) and flat. | Play tug and fetch. Use food puzzles. Create an indoor obstacle course. Exercise your dog on a treadmill. Teach your dog new tricks. Consult your vet. Take your dog to the dog park. Play fetch. Walk your dog. Schedule a play date. Sign-up for an agility class. Get in some pool time. Run with your dog. Bike with your dog. Explore a hiking trail together. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Answer-Questions-About-Self-Harm-Scars | How to Answer Questions About Self Harm Scars | Self-harm scars aren't a sign of weakness or something you should feel guilty about, but they can be hard to talk about with other people. First off, know that you're not required to talk about your scars if you don't want to. They're personal and it's totally up to you how much you want to share. You can say something like, "I'd rather not talk about it," or you can tell a white lie about how your scars were caused by an accident. If you do want to be more open about your scars, you could say something along the lines of, "I used to cut myself several years ago, but I'm doing better now" or "I was feeling lonely and upset, and this is how I coped." Whichever route you decide to take, remember that you have no reason to feel ashamed of your scars. | Don’t feel obligated to talk about the scars. Your scars are personal. If you don't want to tell anyone how they occurred, you don't have to. If someone asks about them, it's okay to politely say that you'd rather not talk about it. For instance, you could say something like, “I'd rather not talk about that,” or, “It's a long story, but now isn't the time to tell it.” If you're not comfortable discussing your scars, consider covering them up to avoid questions. Be aware that refusing to discuss your scars may make people even more curious about them. Give a brief, honest answer. Honesty is often the best policy when it comes to explaining self-harm scars, but you don't have to go into detail. Acknowledge the scars and mention that they were from a tough time in your past, then let the subject go. The person you're talking to may drop the subject as well. Keep in mind that most people are not knowledgeable about self-harming behavior and do not understand it, so they might respond in unhelpful ways. For example, they might try to force you to change, accuse you of doing it for attention, focus only on your injuries and scars, or refuse to acknowledge or discuss it with you. Prepare yourself for these types of reactions before you decide to share with someone. You can say something simple and to-the-point like, “I cut myself when I was depressed several years ago, but I'm doing better now.” Then change the subject. Explain your feelings, not the action of self-harm. If you decide to tell a friend or family member the truth about your scars, focus on the emotions you were dealing with at the time. Don't go into detail about the act of self-harm. They might find that information disturbing or hard to deal with. For instance, don't talk about which tool you used to cut yourself. Instead, say something like, “I felt really isolated and lonely back then, and this is how I dealt with it.” Provide an age-appropriate answer to children. Children may be more likely than adults to innocently ask where your scars came from. While you can be honest with them, make sure your answer is age-appropriate. Don't go into details that might scare or disturb them. Instead, keep your answer short and simple, and then steer the conversation in another direction. For instance, it's generally okay to explain to a six-year-old what scars are. Since young children don't understand complex issues like self-harm, though, don't talk about hurting yourself. Instead, say you got the scars when you were sick. However, for older adolescents or teens, you might give a bit more detail that like "I was really sad for a while and this is how I dealt with it. It wasn't the right decision, but I'm glad I've moved past it." Make an excuse. If you're faced with a question about your scars but don't want to tell the truth, a white lie can sometimes take the pressure off. Blame your scars on an accident or mishap that happened long ago. This only works if your scars look like they could have been caused by an accident. For instance, if you have rows of scars that were clearly caused by self-harm, people probably won't believe your story that your cat scratched you. Divert the question. You can take the pressure off yourself and build rapport with the person who's talking to you by turning the question back around to them. Acknowledge your scars, and then say something like, “Do you have any scars?” or “Have you ever gone through a time that caused you a lot of pain?” This approach is especially effective with children and teenagers, since it helps them relate to you. Deflect with humor. A light-hearted approach may be a best bet if you feel awkward about discussing your scars with strangers or loose acquaintances. In such situations, you can shake off the question humorously. Say something that obviously isn't true, such as, “I fought a dragon when I was a kid.” Laugh it off and change the subject as soon as possible. Of course, self-harm isn't something to make light of, but this may be your only route to take if you'd rather not disclose personal info to a person or group. Cover up with clothes. The simplest way to avoid questions about your scars is to wear clothes that cover them. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are an easy way to hide most of your skin. If you are a woman, you may be able to stay cooler in the summer by wearing long skirts, sheer tights, and light cardigans. For one-time events when you cannot cover up with clothes, consider using a professional concealer. You can get this from a dermatologist. Another option is to cover your arm with a light shawl. Hide scars with makeup or body art. If covering your scars with clothing isn't an option, you can use body makeup to minimize their appearance. If you want to permanently cover the scars, consider getting a tattoo. If you choose to use makeup, look for a heavy-duty concealer that's designed to cover tattoos or scars. Many regular foundations don't provide adequate coverage. Do not put makeup on a scar until it is fully healed. Consider medical treatments. Ask your doctor about the best way to reduce the appearance of your scars. An over-the-counter topical treatment may be able to help fade smaller scars. For more severe cases, procedures such as dermabrasion and laser resurfacing can help smooth out the appearance of your skin. | Don’t feel obligated to talk about the scars. Give a brief, honest answer. Explain your feelings, not the action of self-harm. Provide an age-appropriate answer to children. Make an excuse. Divert the question. Deflect with humor. Cover up with clothes. Hide scars with makeup or body art. Consider medical treatments. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Adjust-the-Water-Level-in-Toilet-Bowl | How to Adjust the Water Level in Toilet Bowl | To adjust the water level in your toilet bowl, start by removing the tank lid and noting if the water level looks too high or low. Then, turn off the water supply to the toilet by rotating the knob on the wall behind the toilet clockwise as far as it will go. Once the water is off, check the float, which is a plastic ball attached to a long arm at the top of the fill valve. Since the height of the float determines the water level, turn the screw on top of the fill valve 1 full rotation clockwise to raise the water or counterclockwise to lower it. After you adjust the float, turn the water back on and flush your toilet to see if you fixed the issue. | Remove the toilet tank lid. Lift the lid off of the tank and set it aside on a flat, stable surface. You'll now have access to the flushing mechanisms inside the tank. Be careful not to drop the lid or set it somewhere from which it might fall. Toilet tank lids are made of ceramic and can break fairly easily. Take note of the water level inside the tank. The water in the tank should rest 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) below the fill valve and overflow tube (the large open pipe near the center of the tank). If it seems higher or lower than this level, your water level may be off-balance. Your toilet may also have a line in its tank, either printed on or etched in porcelain, that shows you where the water level should be. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. Locate the external water valve on the wall behind and beneath the toilet. Rotate the oblong knob clockwise as far as it will go, then flush the toilet. After it flushes, the tank will not refill itself. This will allow you to work inside the tank unobstructed. Keep turning the knob until you hear the water stop running. Do not attempt to adjust or repair any of the mechanisms inside the toilet tank without emptying it first. Examine the float and fill valve. Look over the flushing mechanisms to see what kind of condition they're in. If you notice any obvious damage or defects, you might need to call a professional to have the part repaired. Examine the toilet tank's float height. Check the toilet tank's float, a plastic ball attached to a long arm at the top of the fill valve. The height of the float determines how much water remains in the tank after it refills. It should be at the water level if it is not broken. If the float appears too high or low, adjust the float height and when you refill the tank, check how it changes the water level. If it is above or below the water level, this may be the source of your high/low water level. Give the float a shake. If you can hear water inside of it, you should have a plumber replace it. Make sure the float is properly connected to the fill valve. Use a screwdriver to raise or lower the float height. Directly on top of the fill valve should be a single screw. Turn this screw clockwise or counterclockwise 1 full rotation. Clockwise will raise the water level and counterclockwise will lower it. Avoid turning the screw more than 1 full rotation at a time. Doing too large of an adjustment at once could cause the toilet to flush inconsistently. If the screw is too rusty to turn, you can adjust the float by simply turning it. It is threaded to the metal rod the connects directly to the fill valve. Flush the toilet to test the water level. Turn the water to the toilet back on and give the tank a minute or 2 to fill up. After you've flushed the toilet, observe the water level in the bowl. Ideally, the bowl should be about halfway full. If the water in the bowl still looks too high or low, empty the tank and try adjusting the float again until you get it right. Call a plumber if the water level is still off after adjusting the float several times. Identify the cylinder float. Some newer toilets are equipped with more modern one-piece floats (also sometimes known as “floating cups”) instead of the older ball-and-arm design. These types of floats have been engineered as solid cylinders fitted to the shaft of the fill valve itself. If you have a fill valve with a cylinder float, you can adjust the water level in your toilet in just a few seconds. Cylinder valves are easy to install, remove and perform maintenance on, and more user-friendly for individuals less experienced with home repairs. Lift off the toilet tank lid. Remove the lid from the tank and set it aside on a flat surface, like a table. Be careful not to drop the lid or set it near the edge of a surface, as most toilet lids are ceramic and break easily. After the toilet lid is removed, check the water level—if it seems higher or lower than 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) below the fill valve and overflow tube, it may need adjustments. Turn off the water supply before you work on the float. Locate the external water valve on the wall—it should be behind your toilet, beneath the bowl. Rotate the knob clockwise as far as it will go. When it won't go any farther, flush the toilet and continue flushing until the tank is empty. Locate the adjustment stem on the side of the float. The adjustment stem is a long, slender tube that connects to the larger fill valve. In most models, it will either run parallel with the valve or extend horizontally out from the top. The adjustment stem is used to increase or decrease the amount of water in the tank. Familiarize yourself with the mechanisms inside your toilet tank before making any drastic changes. Refer to the instruction manual or manufacturer's website if available. Check for a release clip on the float. Some cylinder floats can be positioned by squeezing a release clip on the float itself and raising or lowering it to the desired height. Raising the dial will raise the water level, and lowering it should lower the water level. If your float has a release clip, squeeze it to adjust it to the desired height. If not, however, you will need to locate the toilet's adjustment dial. Raise or lower the float 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm). Use 2 fingers to grasp the notched dial on the end of the stem. Twist the stem clockwise or counterclockwise a full rotation—clockwise to lower the height or counterclockwise to raise it. Once you've found a suitable height for the float, replace the toilet lid and turn the water valve back on. If you're having trouble turning the adjustment stem, check for a screwdriver notch. Some adjustment dials are secured by screws. Do not turn the notch more than 1 full rotation at a time. If your toilet water level is adjusted too suddenly, it can cause inconsistent flushing. Test the toilet level height after you have turned the water valve on. Flush the toilet a couple of times to check whether the water level in the bowl has lowered or risen. The bowl should be about halfway full. If not, continue fine-tuning the float until you reach your desired height. Call a plumber if, after several adjustments, the level still seems off. Replace the fill valve if adjustments don't seem to help. If your toilet runs constantly and changing the float's height doesn't help, you may need to replace the fill valve. Replacing a fill valve involves opening the hole at the base of the tank—if you do not feel comfortable working this extensively with your toilet, you may need to call a plumber. The fill valve you need may vary depending on the kind of toilet you have. Check what kind of fill valve your toilet model needs online before buying one. You can also buy a universal toilet repair kit at a hardware or department store. It comes with a new fill valve, float, and flapper that fit almost every toilet. Shut off the water supply and drain the toilet bowl. To install the replacement valve, the toilet tank needs to be completely empty. Locate the external water valve on the wall behind and beneath the toilet. Rotate the knob clockwise until it will not go any further, then flush the toilet. After it flushes, the tank won't refill itself. Continue flushing the tank until the water is completely emptied. Sop up any residual water in the tank with a sponge or towel. Detach the fill valve from the outside of the toilet tank. You should see 2 nuts on the outside of the tank. First, unscrew the one that connects the water supply line to the valve. Pull the supply line out of the valve. Then, unscrew the plastic nut that secures the fill valve to the tank, which should be easy to loosen. With both nuts unscrewed, the fill valve should come right out. You may need to use a wrench or pair of pliers to loosen the nut. Lay down a towel in case any residual water leaks out of the detached water supply hose. Lift the old valve out of the tank. Extract the entire fill valve unit, including the attached float. The unit should simply come out in 1 piece. Discard the old valve unless you plan to have it repaired by a professional later. Work carefully to avoid damaging or dislodging any of the other mechanisms inside the tank. Slide the new fill valve into place. Fit the bottom portion of the valve through the hole in the base of the tank. The rest of the unit should sit upright once the fill valve is in place, and it should feel secure—no wobbling or moving around. Make sure it's attached to the base before putting the the toilet back together. Reattach the water supply hose. Attach the hose back to the bottom of the valve, and slide back on any washers connecting the small water supply hose to the base of the toilet tank. Screw the large nut back on tightly to prevent leakages when you turn the water supply on again. Turn the water supply back on and give the toilet a test flush. Locate the external water valve again on the wall behind the toilet and rotate it clockwise to turn on the water supply. Flush the toilet several times to test the water and check its new level. You should also check the water shut-off valve and the bottom of the new fill valve. Wipe these areas with a tissue to check for moisture, and tighten the connections again if you find any. If the level still seems off, call a professional. A plumber may be able to troubleshoot your problem and solve the issue. | Remove the toilet tank lid. Take note of the water level inside the tank. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. Examine the float and fill valve. Examine the toilet tank's float height. Use a screwdriver to raise or lower the float height. Flush the toilet to test the water level. Identify the cylinder float. Lift off the toilet tank lid. Turn off the water supply before you work on the float. Locate the adjustment stem on the side of the float. Check for a release clip on the float. Raise or lower the float 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm). Test the toilet level height after you have turned the water valve on. Replace the fill valve if adjustments don't seem to help. Shut off the water supply and drain the toilet bowl. Detach the fill valve from the outside of the toilet tank. Lift the old valve out of the tank. Slide the new fill valve into place. Reattach the water supply hose. Turn the water supply back on and give the toilet a test flush. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Hang-a-Door-Mirror | How to Hang a Door Mirror | To hang a door mirror, hold the mirror at the height you want it on the door and mark where the top of the mirror hits. Next, measure the width of the door, divide that number in half to get the precise center of the door, and mark the center on the height line with a pencil. Then, measure the width of the mirror, divide the measurement in half to find the center of the mirror, and lightly mark the top of the mirror. Finally, use a level and mirror clips to mount the mirror using your measurements. | Hold the mirror at the approximate height you want it on the door. Look in the mirror while holding it to make sure you can see all the parts of yourself that are important to you. Remember that you'll likely be able to step back from the mirror to see your shoes. Choose a door that gets good light if you plan to do your make up in the mirror. If possible, have a friend hold the mirror, so you can double check that the height works for you. Use a pencil to mark where the top of the mirror hits on the door. Holding the mirror in place, create a small pencil mark along the top edge. This will give you a reference point to work from as you center the mirror on the door. It's not important to mark the edges of the mirror. This mark is just to get an approximate feel for where you'd like to hang the mirror. Measure the door to find the center. Use a measuring tape to measure the width of the door from edge to edge. Divide that number in half to get the precise center of the door's width. On your height line, mark this true center of the door with a dark pencil mark. If your door has decorative imprints or panels, measure only the center of the thick, central panel of the door. Decorative areas of interior doors are often hollow and not strong enough to hold a mirror. Find the center of the mirror by measuring. Measure the width of the mirror using a measuring tape. Divide this measurement in half to get the precise center of the mirror. Create a light pencil mark at this measurement on the top of the mirror. If there's not a rough edge to mark the center of the mirror, use a small piece of painter's tape to mark the center. Have a friend hold the mirror in its final, centralized position. Ask your friend to align the center mark on your mirror and the center mark on your door's height line. With the mirror in this ideal position, mark the center of the bottom edge of the mirror. You will use this bottom mark as a guide to hang mirror clips, which will secure your mirror to the door. Screw 2 plastic mirror clips along the bottom edge line. Space these clips evenly from the center point of the mirror you marked while remaining only in the thick, center panel of the door (if it has panels). Screw these halfway in. Do not set the screws wider than the width of your mirror. Your mirror will be most secure with these bottom screws at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the corner of the mirror on each side. If necessary, rotate the plastic face of the clip up so it is facing the top edge of the door. It will be prone to spinning until you place the mirror in the groove, since it is only half screwed in. You can buy mirror clips at your local hardware or home improvement store. Have a friend hold the mirror in place against the bottom clips. Slide the bottom edge of the mirror down into the groove of the 2 plastic clips you've half screwed into the door. Doing this will support the weight of the mirror from the bottom, but your friend will need to hold the top of the mirror against the door to keep it from falling. If you have trouble fitting the bottom edge of the mirror into the groove, unscrew the bottom clips slightly to create more room. Using a level, create 2 marks, one on either long side of the mirror. About halfway up the mirror, mark 1 point on each side of the mirror at the same height. They appear like a matched pair. While your friend holds the mirror in place, screw a plastic mirror clip into each point to fully secure the sides of the mirror to the door. The plastic face of the clip should rest against the front side of the mirror. It will hold the weight of the mirror, and your friend should be able to let go. If positioning your side clips halfway up the mirror would mean screwing them into a decorative portion of the door, adjust your clips up or down as a pair. Screw them into the solid center of the door so they can adequately support the weight of the mirror. It's okay if your side clips are a third or two-thirds of the way down the door, for example. It won't affect their weight-bearing capabilities. With the mirror now secured on the bottom and the sides, screw the bottom mirror clips all the way in. Tighten all the clips so they are holding the mirror firmly against the door. Have your friend let go of the mirror. Secure the top edge of the mirror. Use two more plastic mirror clips to attach the top edge of your mirror to the door. Space these clips evenly from the center point of the mirror you marked at the beginning when measuring. Screw these only into the thick, center panel of the door (if it is decorative). Place these top mirror clips no closer to the mirror's corners than 1 inch (2.5 cm). That's it! Your mirror is screwed in and ready to go. Choose a door that is not hard to close already. Open and close a few potential doors for your mirror to see which close without any resistance. A hook will add width to your door and make an already snug fit even tighter. If you have to press hard on a door to close it, that door is not a good candidate for an over-the-door mirror. Look for slim, low-profile hooks to keep from damaging your door frame. Choose thin, flat hooks that closely mimic the shape of your door's top edge. The more closely your hooks fit the door, the less they will rub and discolor your door frame. Choose hooks in your door’s paint color for an invisible look. To help your over-the-door mirror appear mounted, choose a mirror whose frame and hooks match your door. For a high-contrast look, choose a frame and hook color that pop against the color of your door. There is no right color for a mirror frame, just pick the look that appeals to you most. Open the door. When you're ready to hang the mirror, open the door wide. Remove any packaging on the mirror, which could potentially scratch the door. Slide the open side of the hooks over the top of the door. Holding the sides of the mirror with your hands, lift the mirror up and place the hooks gently over the door. Depending on how tightly the hooks fit your door, you may need to open the mouths of them slightly so they can slip over the top. Move your mirror to the center of the door. Let go of your mirror once it is over the door. To center the mirror, slide the hooks gently in the direction you'd like to move it. You're now ready to use the mirror for all your dressing needs. | Hold the mirror at the approximate height you want it on the door. Use a pencil to mark where the top of the mirror hits on the door. Measure the door to find the center. Find the center of the mirror by measuring. Have a friend hold the mirror in its final, centralized position. Screw 2 plastic mirror clips along the bottom edge line. Have a friend hold the mirror in place against the bottom clips. Using a level, create 2 marks, one on either long side of the mirror. With the mirror now secured on the bottom and the sides, screw the bottom mirror clips all the way in. Secure the top edge of the mirror. Choose a door that is not hard to close already. Look for slim, low-profile hooks to keep from damaging your door frame. Choose hooks in your door’s paint color for an invisible look. Open the door. Slide the open side of the hooks over the top of the door. Move your mirror to the center of the door. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Breed-Husky-Dogs | How to Breed Husky Dogs | To breed husky dogs, you'll need a female husky that's at least 2 years old and a male husky that's at least 6 months old. Before you breed the dogs, have them examined by a vet to make sure they don't have any diseases or health problems that could affect the pregnancy. Then, breed them when the female husky is in heat. After they mate and you've confirmed that the female is pregnant, prepare to wait about 63 days for the puppies to be born. | Wait until the female is 2 years old. Larger female dogs take a bit longer than males to mature. Female huskies aren't ready to breed until they are 2 years old or older. Don't breed her until she has her second heat cycle. She'll probably have her first heat cycle at 5 to 7 months, but her body isn't mature enough for breeding at that time. Male dogs are mature after about 6 months. Breed females with a calm and nurturing temperament. The stud dog only needs to perform one job (getting the bitch pregnant), but the bitch must carry the puppies to term and care for them when they are young. A calm female dog is more likely to be a good mother to the pups. Using a female with an aggressive temperament can result in unhealthy or aggressive puppies. Make sure both dogs are registered with a kennel club. If maintaining a pure husky bloodline is important to you, both dogs should be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Continental Kennel Club (CKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC). Both dogs need to be registered with the same club in order for the puppies to be eligible for registration. Research the bloodlines of both dogs to learn about potential health problems or temperament issues. Try running a Google search using key words like "husky bloodlines" and "breeding husky bloodlines." You can also visit http://siberian-husky-bloodlines.seppalasleddogs.com/index.htm. Have a vet perform a physical on both dogs 4 weeks before breeding. Both dogs should have a thorough veterinary check-up about a month before breeding begins. Get them up-to-date on vaccinations and make sure they're free from parasites. Have them screened for brucellosis, which is a disease that can cause infertility. It's also a good idea to ask the vet to screen both dogs for evidence of hip dysplasia. The bitch should have good muscle tone and should not be overweight. Have both dogs' eyes checked by a canine ophthalmologist. Genetic disorders of the eyes are common in huskies. These disorders can appear at any age, so it is important to have your dogs' eyes checked once a year. Have a screening performed on both dogs prior to breeding. Recognize when the female dog goes into heat. Look for signs of proestrus, or the first period of your dog's heat cycle. During proestrus, your dog may bleed and her vulva may become swollen, but she will not accept a mate. After around 9 days, you dog will move into the second period of her heat cycle, known as estrus. During estrus—which also lasts about 9 days—your dog will be fertile. If you think your dog might be in heat but you are not sure, bring the dog in to see the vet. Mate the dogs after the female enters the estrus portion of her cycle. The most fertile time for dogs is usually between the 10th and 14th day after the beginning of her heat cycle (proestrus). You can bring the dogs together for mating every other day until they have mated 2 or 3 times total. The ideal mating window lasts about 5-9 days. Females are generally more comfortable in new environments than males. For this reason, the bitch is usually brought to the stud. Keep her away from other male dogs after mating her. If allowed to be around other male dogs, she may become pregnant with their puppies instead. After mating her with your chosen male, keep her in a restricted area away from all other male dogs. Take her to the vet once she begins showing signs of pregnancy. Signs of pregnancy in your husky can include increased appetite, weight gain, and enlarged nipples. You may be able to spot them as early as 3 weeks after breeding. After about 28 days, you can bring your dog to the vet to have the pregnancy confirmed. Your vet will use ultrasound, palpitations, or X-rays to diagnose a pregnancy. Sometimes dogs will show these symptoms when they are not pregnant. Wait a full season after pregnancy before breeding the female again. Female huskies should not be bred in 2 consecutive seasons. Even if the pregnancy was not viable, wait a full heat season before trying to breed her again. A heat season usually comes about every 6 months, although it may be delayed following a pregnancy. Pregnancy is difficult on your dog's body. For her own safety and the safety of future puppies, she needs time to recover. Feed your pregnant dog nutritious food at least twice daily. A healthy bitch can continue to eat a normal diet during the first part of her pregnancy. As her body weight increases, her food intake can be increased gradually. Keep her food intake the same for the 5 to 6 weeks of pregnancy. After the sixth week, slowly increase her food intake. By the time she's ready to birth, she should be eating 35-50% more food that usual. Feed her at least twice daily -- morning and night. It's better to feed her 3 times a day -- morning, noon, and evening. Some breeders recommend adding an additional protein source to your pregnant dog's diet, such as evaporated milk, eggs, meat, or liver. Providing small, frequent meals can help your pregnant dog feel more comfortable. Prepare a whelping box. Choose a place that is warm, dry, quiet, and separate from other dogs. Create a roomy box that has low sides. Bring her into the box every day so that she gets used to the area. Pet her and make sure time spent in the box is a positive experience for her. Create a whelping box well in advance, so that your dog has time to get used to it. You can purchase a whelping box, build one from wood, or repurpose a large plastic container. Prepare for the arrival of the puppies after 63 days of pregnancy. Husky gestation lasts about 63 days. When the arrival of the puppies is getting close, gather some supplies. Some things you may need include: Newspaper for bedding Bath mats or towels for bedding Towels for cleaning the puppies Paper towels for cleaning the whelping box Thermometer to check the bitch's temperature Heating pad to keep puppies warm Dental floss (unwaxed) for tying the puppies umbilical cords Sharp scissors to cut the umbilical cord Iodine to clean the umbilical cord. Line the box with newspaper right before she gives birth. At the time of the birth, you may want to line the box with newspapers so that it can be changed several times a day. After a few days, you can switch to towels or other soft materials. These will still need to be changed about once a day. Watch for the first signs of labor. A few days before she is ready to give birth, your bitch may stop eating and start creating a "nest." About 1 day prior to giving birth, your bitch's body temperature should drop to around 99 °F (37 °C). During the first stage of labor, her cervix will dilate. Contractions will begin and she may whine and appear distressed or confused. You might notice her panting, straining, or moving around restlessly. This stage usually lasts 6 to 18 hours. Ideally, your dog will build her birthing nest in the whelping box you provided. Watch for her water to break and full labor to begin. When her water breaks, this signals the second and final stage of her labor. The water looks like straw-colored liquid. Her contractions will get more intense after this and she'll go into labor very soon after her water breaks. Puppies will appear sporadically every thirty minutes or so once full labor begins. Labor typically lasts about 4 hours. Most dogs will give birth easily without the need of human help. Know when to contact a vet. In most cases, mother dogs will give birth all on their own without much assistance. However, make sure you have your veterinarian's phone number and the number for local emergency animal clinic ready in case of emergency. Contact your vet if: The mother appears to be in extreme pain. The mother has powerful contractions for more than 45 minutes without the birth of a pup. More than two hours pass between the delivery of puppies. The mother dog is trembling or shivering. The mother dog collapses. A dark green or bloody fluid comes out before the birth of the first puppy. (After the first puppy, this is OK.) The mother shows no signs of labor 64 or more days after mating. Make sure the mother is licking and cleaning each newborn pup. The mother dog should remove the membrane from its face so the pup can breathe, chew the umbilical cord, and lick each puppy to stimulate its breathing. If she neglects to do any of these things, you may need to intervene. Tear the sac membrane near the puppy's head, peel it backwards, and remove the puppy. Use a washcloth to remove mucus from the puppy's mouth and nose. Then rub the puppy all over to stimulate breathing. Tie the umbilical cord using unwaxed dental floss. Use sharp scissors to cut the cord about 2 inches (5.1 cm) away from the abdomen on the far side of the knot. Treat the cut with iodine to prevent infection. Let the puppies nurse as soon as they're born. This is crucial for the puppies because it allows them to ingest colostrum (or newborn milk) with important antibodies. Colostrum helps the puppies fight infection while their immune systems continue to develop. It a good idea to weigh the puppies after birth and then every other day for the first 2 weeks. They should gain a little weight with every weigh-in. Keep the puppies warm. Newborn puppies are not able to maintain their own body temperature. For the first 5 days, keep the whelping area between 85 °F (29 °C) and 90 °F (32 °C). For the next 5 days, you can reduce the temperature to 80 °F (27 °C). After 4 weeks, you can bring the temperature down to 75 °F (24 °C). Make sure the puppies eat every 2 hours for the first week. After the first week, growth will start increasing rapidly and they may need to eat even more frequently -- possibly every hour or so. This is totally normal and a good sign they're developing well. Start transitioning the puppies to solid food after 4 weeks. Find good homes for the puppies. People sometimes purchase puppies without realizing how much care, attention, and time they need. Ensure that a new owner will treat your puppy properly before handing over the dog. Interview potential puppy-owners to find about their lifestyle, and whether or not they seem up to the responsibility of raising a husky. Perform a home visit to make sure they have a suitable space. Get their driver's license number and do a background check to make sure they no have a history of animal neglect or abuse. | Wait until the female is 2 years old. Breed females with a calm and nurturing temperament. Make sure both dogs are registered with a kennel club. Have a vet perform a physical on both dogs 4 weeks before breeding. Have both dogs' eyes checked by a canine ophthalmologist. Recognize when the female dog goes into heat. Mate the dogs after the female enters the estrus portion of her cycle. Keep her away from other male dogs after mating her. Take her to the vet once she begins showing signs of pregnancy. Wait a full season after pregnancy before breeding the female again. Feed your pregnant dog nutritious food at least twice daily. Prepare a whelping box. Prepare for the arrival of the puppies after 63 days of pregnancy. Line the box with newspaper right before she gives birth. Watch for the first signs of labor. Watch for her water to break and full labor to begin. Know when to contact a vet. Make sure the mother is licking and cleaning each newborn pup. Let the puppies nurse as soon as they're born. Keep the puppies warm. Make sure the puppies eat every 2 hours for the first week. Find good homes for the puppies. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Get-the-Most-Out-of-Your-Cat%27s-Vet-Visit | How to Get the Most Out of Your Cat's Vet Visit | To get the most out of your cat's vet visit, try to get it used to its carrier beforehand so it's less anxious on the day. You can do this by taking your cat for a 5-10-minute drive before its visit and putting treats in its carrier to help it relax. Before your visit, try to write down any questions you have for your vet so you don't forget anything. Once you're with your vet, give them detailed information about your cat to help them diagnose any problems. You should also watch them examining your cat and ask questions about what they're looking for so you can learn to improve your own examinations at home. | Get your cat used to the cat carrier. If your cat only associates its carrier with a visit to the vet, your cat will probably fight getting into it. To encourage your cat to get into the carrier, get it used to the carrier before the visit. You might place treats in the carrier and leave the door open for your cat to explore. You could also place your cat's favorite toys in it or make it cozy so your cat enjoys playing or sleeping in the carrier. Ensure that the carrier isn't too small for your cat. If you haven't purchased a new cat carrier since your cat was a kitten, it may be time to buy one that fits your full-sized cat. Your cat should be able to stand up and turn around in its carrier. Take your cat for short drives. Most cats don't like riding in the car so driving to the vet can make your cat anxious. To reduce your cat's anxiety, take it for short (5 to 10 minute) drives through your neighborhood before the cat's visit. You could drive your cat to the vet's office even if it doesn't have a scheduled visit just to get it used to the experience. Getting your cat used to riding in the car for no reason will help your cat associate the car with pleasant things instead of just going to the vet. Keep your cat calm in the waiting room. Even if your cat remains calm in the car, it may become upset as soon as it gets into the waiting room with other nervous cats. Try to stay calm so that your cat sees there's nothing to fear. You should also keep your cat in its carrier while you wait. You may want to place a blanket or covering over the carrier so your cat doesn't become overstimulated by everything it sees, hears, and smells in the waiting room. Consider buying a calming pheromone spray. Spray your cat with the pheromone spray to relax it. Talk to your cat in soothing tones to make it feel relaxed and reassured. Hearing your voice can help it realize that you're still close by even if it's in the carrier with a cover. Choose a friendly veterinarian. If you can, work with a veterinarian who has a friendly and calm attitude. This will make your cat feel at ease and make your visit go smoother. If you think the vet is too clinical or impersonal, you may want to ask friends to recommend a vet who is known for good bedside manner. A vet can calm your cat by talking to it and petting it for a few minutes before the exam. If the vet doesn't automatically do this, ask them to do this. Praise your cat. Make your cat feel happy and loved by talking to it in a comforting voice. You should tell your cat how brave and good it is. Stroke and pet your cat to put it at ease. You can also place treats in the carrier to reward and distract your cat. Your cat should feel safe and loved. You may need to pay extra attention to your cat after the vet's appointment so your cat is reassured. Take your cat to the vet for annual exams. Annual exams are an important part of keeping your cat healthy. You can expect the vet to do a physical exam, take your cat's medical history, check for dental health, and get vaccine boosters. You can also talk with the vet about giving your cat preventative treatments for parasites. If your cat is showing any problem behaviors, you can also talk to the vet about possible causes for the misbehavior. For example, you might say, "Why do you think my cat has just started scratching the furniture?" Give detailed information about your cat. You'll probably need to give health information about your cat to the veterinary tech and veterinarian. Try to be as detailed and thorough as possible so the vet team has all the information they need to examine and treat your cat. For example, instead of saying, "My cat has been withdrawn," say, "My cat hides from people every afternoon and is no longer affectionate." It may help to keep a health journal for your cat. Write down any health issues or concerns you have so you can refer back to it during the exam. For example, you might write down that your cat urinated outside of her litter box three times one day. Bring this concern up with the vet and ask about possible causes. Pay attention during the exam. Watch what the vet does during the physical exam and ask for more information about what the vet is looking for. This way you can learn about ways to improve exams you give your cat at home. You should also assist the vet if the vet asks you to hold your cat. This can make your cat feel more assured than if the vet tech is the one to restrain your cat. If the vet does anything you're confused or concerned about, don't hesitate to ask the vet for answers. You might say something like, "I see that you're checking the cat's fur. What exactly are you looking for?" Ask questions. A visit to the vet is your chance to ask any questions you have about your cat. If you find that you forget your questions when you're actually at the appointment, you might try writing them down in the days before the exam. This way, you'll be sure to remember to ask them. If you remember questions that you forgot to ask, don't hesitate to call the vet's office or email them. You can call them and say, "I was in the other day with my cat and I remembered a question I have for the vet." Discuss possible treatment with the vet. If your cat needs any treatment, talk with the vet so you understand procedures that your cat may need. Find out whether or not your cat will need to stay overnight, what kind of home care your cat will need, and determine if the cat will need procedures in stages. For example, you might say, "Could you walk me step-by-step through the treatment procedure and tell me what I should do when I take my cat home?" If you're worried about paying for a treatment, tell the vet. Depending on the condition and treatment, the vet may be able to schedule staggered treatment so you can pay in installments. | Get your cat used to the cat carrier. Take your cat for short drives. Keep your cat calm in the waiting room. Choose a friendly veterinarian. Praise your cat. Take your cat to the vet for annual exams. Give detailed information about your cat. Pay attention during the exam. Ask questions. Discuss possible treatment with the vet. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Flight-Attendant-for-Air-Canada | How to Become a Flight Attendant for Air Canada | To become a flight attendant for Air Canada, you'll need to be 18 years old, hold a Canadian passport, and have a high school diploma or general education diploma. You'll also need to be fluent in 2 or more languages used by countries Air Canada flies to, such as Spanish, Japanese, and Arabic. Keep in mind that you'll need to meet physical health requirements to ensure you can lift luggage and equipment and be on your feet for long periods. Look for open positions on the Air Canada website and apply through their online form. You can apply from anywhere in Canada, but if you're offered the job, you might need to move if you don't live within 90 minutes of an airport. | Meet basic requirements. If you aren't already, wait until you are 18 years old or over. Earn your high school diploma. If you didn't finish high school, complete equivalent coursework to obtain a general education diploma (GED). Visit https://www.gprc.ab.ca/files/forms_documents/GED_Test_Hints_Newsletter.pdf for contact information for your local GED testing center. Obtain a Canadian passport. Visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/passport/apply/new/apply-how.asp to fill out and print an application. Make copies of all required documentation. Obtain two copies of a passport photo. Have a guarantor fill in and sign the appropriate section of the application, as well as all copies of your documentation and one passport photo. In addition to your guarantor, ask two other people to be cited as your references on your application. Completed applications can be submitted by mail or in person at Service Canada or Canada Post. Documentation, passport photos, and fees must be included with your application. Visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/passport/apply/new/apply-how.asp for more information about current fees and payments methods, acceptable documents, eligibility for guarantors and references, and mailing addresses. Become fluent in more than one language. At the very least, master either English or French (preferably both). Additionally, learn at least one other language used by countries that Air Canada flies to regularly. Sought-after languages include: Arabic Cantonese Danish Dutch German Greek Hebrew Hindi Italian Japanese Korean Mandarin Portuguese Punjabi Spanish Turkish Prepare to meet additional requirements. Due to the physical demands of the job, expect to have your physical health evaluated during the application process. Make sure you are in adequate shape in order to perform required tasks. Additionally, be aware that, if hired, you will have to apply for security clearance through Transport Canada. As a flight attendant, you will be expected to lift luggage and equipment; physically assist passengers; have strong footing and balance; be able to stand and work for long periods; be able to work at high altitudes and in a pressurized environment. For more information on Transport Canada's security clearance, visit https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/aviationsecurity/tscp-menu.htm. Plan to move if needed. You can apply for a position regardless of where you currently live. However, if you don't already live within 90 minutes of an airport serviced by Air Canada, start considering which areas you are able to move to. Expect to be required to live nearby in order to report promptly to changes in scheduling. Cities include: Calgary Deer Lake Edmonton Goose Bay Montreal Sept-Iles St. John's Toronto Vancouver Whitehorse Yellowknife Look for open positions. Regularly check Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge's websites for job postings. Filter your search by location and position to narrow down your search. For Air Canada, visit https://aircanada.taleo.net/careersection/flighte/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en&radiusType=K&searchExpanded=true&radius=1&jobfield=21840181102#. For Air Canada Rouge, check http://trr.tbe.taleo.net/trr01/ats/careers/jobSearch.jsp?org=ACV&cws=37. Submit an online application. On the appropriate website, follow all prompts to create a user profile. Answer the following questionnaire as directed. Upload your resume and cover letter when prompted. Sign up for emails about new job postings in case someone else is hired for the current opening. Save your profile for future use and update it as needed. For Air Canada, create or edit your user profile by clicking the “Create/Edit Profile” on the job listings page. For Air Canada Rouge, click “Join Now/Sign In” on their job search page. Wait to be contacted. First, check your email for a confirmation that your application was successfully submitted. After that, wait for a phone call. If they decide to consider you for the position, expect a recruiter to call and conduct the first interview over the phone. Only candidates who are considered will be contacted by phone, so if you don't receive a call, apply for a new position. If your phone interview is a success, your recruiter will provide information regarding additional interviews, events, and training. Look sharp. Expect your appearance to be taken into consideration. For any in-person interviews or events, groom yourself beforehand. Exact on-the-job requirements regarding appearance will be detailed in training once you are hired, but anticipate a general desire for cleanliness and neatness. Check images of flight attendants posted on Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge's websites. Model yourself according to their dress, hairstyle, and grooming. Play up past service experience. If you have already worked as a flight attendant, lead with that. If not, emphasize any previous employment that you might have in a similar service industry. Remember: even though a plane is a unique environment, your role as flight attendant is pretty similar to any on-the-ground job that involves keeping customers happy. Such jobs could include sales, food and hospitality, or customer service. Be sure to mention any that involved working with children, which is a highly prized skill for flight attendants. Respond to key concerns. Remember that, as a flight attendant, you will be working as part of a crew in a unique environment where safety is a top concern. Emphasize your positive attitudes toward teamwork and safety. When discussing your prior work experience, highlight initiatives and other strong points touching on these areas: Maintaining a courteous demeanor regardless of the situation. Adapting to new situations quickly as they occur. Communicating effectively with fellow staff and customers. Maintaining a safe work environment. | Meet basic requirements. Obtain a Canadian passport. Become fluent in more than one language. Prepare to meet additional requirements. Plan to move if needed. Look for open positions. Submit an online application. Wait to be contacted. Look sharp. Play up past service experience. Respond to key concerns. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Snooker | How to Play Snooker | To play snooker, you want to try to score more points than your opponent to win. To get points, you'll need to sink the balls on the table into the pockets. Red balls are worth 1 point, and the multicolored balls are worth 2-7 points, depending on the ball. When it's your turn, you have to sink a red ball before you can shoot for a multicolored ball. If you miss, it's the other players turn. Keep playing until you and your opponent have cleared all the balls off the table! | Score more points than your opponent to win. In order to secure victory in a game of snooker, you have to end the game with a greater number of points than the other player. This means that you should try to secure as many points per turn as you can. Snooker can be tricky to get the hang of at first, but with time you'll learn how to place your shots to run the table and make the best of each turn. There are 22 balls total used in a game of snooker: 15 red, 6 multicolored (yellow, brown, green, blue, pink and black) and a single white “cue” ball, which is used to pocket shots. The point value of each ball is as follows: all red balls =1, yellow = 2, green = 3, brown = 4, blue = 5, pink = 6 and black = 7 Players score points every time they successfully sink a ball. By the end of the game, every ball must be in a pocket for there to be a winner. Because of the player's ability to pocket colored balls repeatedly during the opening stage of the game, a winning score will rarely be below 50. Set up the table properly. Before you can begin playing, the balls must be arranged in the right configuration. Each of the colored balls has a specific location on the table. The 15 red balls are arranged in a triangular formation at one end of the table, with the pink ball directly in front of the point of the triangle and black ball a few inches behind the red balls. The blue ball rests in the center. The yellow, brown and green balls are lined up horizontally on the breaking end of the table. Whichever player begins the game will break from the end of the table opposite the cluster of red balls. Decide which player will break. Flip a coin or come to an agreement on who will shoot first. This player will be responsible for breaking the formation of balls. For their opening shot, the player will position the white cue ball behind the line of yellow, brown and green balls. They will then aim to gently dislodge a red ball from the cluster, officially starting the game. Unlike in pool, where the object of the break is to scatter the balls across the table, a snooker break should be conservative. That way, your opponent won't have the advantage of multiple shots should you miss. The cue ball can be placed anywhere within the D-shaped semicircular section of the table. Alternate between red and colored balls to earn points. Points are scored by sinking the right balls in the right order. The active player will attempt to pocket a red ball first. Once sunk, red balls remain where they are. The player will then aim for any of the colored balls, which are returned to their designated spot on the table after they've been pocketed. Continue the game in this manner, going back and forth between red and colored balls, until all of the red balls have found their way into a pocket. A player's turn is over if they miss a shot. If a player scratches (pockets the cue ball by mistake, or fails to hit a single colored ball) or shoots a ball in the wrong order (for instance, two colored balls in a row), it's considered a foul. Typically, they lose their turn, and in competition there may also be a point deduction. Pocket the rest of the colored balls in the correct order. After all of the red balls have been pocketed, a player can close out the game by consecutively sinking the remaining colored balls in order of their point value. In this stage of the game, the balls no longer go back to their original position. If one player misses, it becomes the other player's turn. The game is over when there are no more balls on the table. Following the red balls, the colored balls must be deposited in this order: yellow, green, brown, blue, pink, black. Since missed colored balls stay on the table in the final stages of the game, it becomes a free-for-all to see which player can snag the most points. Take a comfortable grip. Grab the cue near the bottom of the thick, weighted end. The closer to the end you grip, the more control and extension your shots will have. Make sure your hand placement is comfortable and secure to prevent the cue from drifting when you're aiming. Snooker cues tend to be somewhat heavier and have narrower tips than the cues used in other forms of billiards. With a slender tip, the player can manipulate the cue ball more precisely. How high or low you choose to place your hand on the cue is mostly a matter of personal preference. “Bridge” the cue with your non-dominant hand. Lay your non-shooting on the table and use it to guide the cue as you shoot. Most people prefer to use either an “open bridge” (lining up the cue across the groove of the thumb joint) or a “closed bridge” (enclosing the end of the cue between their thumb and pointer finger). Bridging helps you steady the cue as you strike the cue ball, allowing you to place your shots with more precision. Use a solid bridge to keep your cue from wiggling around during your stroke. Elevating your bridge by lifting the bottom of your hand off the table can enable you to pocket balls that are too close to the rails or other balls. Move the cue in a smooth, straight line to shoot. In one tight, controlled motion, draw your shooting arm back a few inches and thrust it forward, hitting the cue ball in the upper part of its center. Keep your elbow relaxed and close to your side. Try to make your movements as fluid as possible. A jerky or halted stroke will most likely be inaccurate. Practice shooting straighter by bouncing the cue ball off one of the rails and seeing how closely it returns to the tip of your cue. Use a precise stroke to place the balls into pockets. Sink balls by shooting them straight for the pockets, or striking one side of the ball so that it rolls in at an angle. You can also use the rails, or the edges of the tables, to bounce balls into pockets on the same side of the table you're shooting from. The balls will be in many different positions throughout the game. Take some time to line up your shots every time it's your turn at the table. Keep your eye on the ball as you line up your shot, and don't let your shoulders come up until you've completed your stroke. Calculate the angle you need to strike the ball in order to knock it into a given pocket by aiming for the point on the ball that's directly opposite the pocket's opening. Use extensions to assist with difficult shots. Because of the size of a snooker table, and the number of balls cluttering the table, there may be times when it's impossible to make a successful shot using the standard technique. In the situations, an extension tool such as a "rest" (also known as a “bridge”—not to be confused with the hand position used while aiming) or "spider" will come in handy. Rests resemble normal pool cues with the exception of an arched stand at the end. The player's cue can be fitted into this stand, which takes the place of the bridging hand for steadying shots. A rest is a valuable aid for making shots that would otherwise require you to lean across the table. The spider extension has a higher arch, and should be used in situations where the cue ball is too close to a ball or group of balls to give you a clear shot. Calculate the value of each shot. Red balls are worth 1 point each. The remaining colored balls are worth an increasing number of points in sequence. Remember, these balls can be pocketed multiple times before the end of the game, which will help you quickly drive up your score. The fixed position of the colored balls means you should always have a clear shot at one, no matter where the cue ball is on the table. Players should either keep score mentally or have a pen and paper nearby to record the number of points earned after each turn. If the losing player's score is so much lower that it's impossible for them to close the gap by the time all the red balls have been cleared from the table, it's customary for them to forfeit to the winning player. Plan your shots strategically. As you assess the table, make it your goal to sink a red ball that will leave you with a follow up shot at one of the colored balls. Keep in mind the value of each ball and go for the ball that will earn you the highest number of points whenever you can. Use an appropriate amount of power for each shot so that the cue ball comes to a stop as near as possible to the center of the table. This way you'll always have an unobstructed path. The ability to use one shot to set up the next is the hallmark of a skilled snooker player. Play it safe. In general, it's best not to take unnecessary risks. By staying composed and opting for modest, well-executed shots, you can keep your turn going longer, putting you in control of the table. Look over the entire table and determine what your best option is before trying to pocket a ball at a distance or angle you're not sure you can make. The closest shot will usually be the easiest. Avoid sharp angles or bank shots that require you to use the rails. The small size of the pockets makes it more likely that you'll miss. Take your time. Snooker tables are quite a bit larger than standard billiard tables, and, to make it even more complicated, the pockets are slightly more narrow. For this reason, you should always pace yourself when picking, lining up and taking your shots. Being hasty or getting overly excited about scoring could cost you the shot, and if you're playing against an experienced opponent, one missed shot could mean the end of the game. Regulation snooker tables measure 12' (3.6m) long by 6' (1.8m) wide, whereas most pool tables are only 8' (2.4m) long by 4' (1.2m) wide. Additionally, the pockets on a snooker table are about 1.5 (roughly 3.7cm) inches smaller than those on other playing surfaces. | Score more points than your opponent to win. Set up the table properly. Decide which player will break. Alternate between red and colored balls to earn points. Pocket the rest of the colored balls in the correct order. Take a comfortable grip. “Bridge” the cue with your non-dominant hand. Move the cue in a smooth, straight line to shoot. Use a precise stroke to place the balls into pockets. Use extensions to assist with difficult shots. Calculate the value of each shot. Plan your shots strategically. Play it safe. Take your time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Substitute-Sanitary-Pad | How to Make a Substitute Sanitary Pad | To make a substitute sanitary pad, first get a large amount of toilet paper and fold it over itself until you get the thickness you want. Then, place the toilet paper on the usual spot on your underwear where a pad would go. If you'd rather use rags as a replacement pad, find a small, clean rag and fold it to the approximate size and shape of a pad. Once it's folded, place it on the inside of your underwear. Just make sure to wash the rag before reusing it. | Fold together a thick stack of paper towels or toilet paper. If you can find paper towels, grab enough of them so they make a stack that's at least ⁄ 2 in (1.3 cm) thick, and about as wide and long as a normal pad. If you can't find paper towels, fold toilet paper together to create a thick stack, instead. Paper towels are more absorbant and durable than toilet paper, so they're better to use if you can find them. If not, though, toilet paper will work—you just might have to change the pad more often. You can also use thick stacks of tissues if you have them. Place the stack on the crotch of your underwear. Once you've folded the stack of paper towels or toilet paper, press it into your underwear in the same place your pad would normally go. It's okay if it overlaps the sides of your underwear a little—just fold the edges down, similar to wings. Wrap a long strip of toilet paper around your underwear 4-5 times. Wrap the toilet paper so it goes over the pad, all the way around the crotch of your underwear, and back again. This will help secure your makeshift pad so it doesn't shift around. Feel free to wrap more toilet paper around the pad if you want. The more paper you use, the more secure you'll be against leaks—although you may be uncomfortable if your pad gets bulky. Change the paper pad at least every 3-4 hours. Exactly how often you'll need to change the pad will depend on the heaviness of your flow and the durability of the paper you used. However, when the pad gets soaked or starts to disintegrate, or once you've had it in place for several hours, it's time to replace it. To do that, just tear away the paper wrapped around the crotch of your underwear, discard the pad, and make a new one. Even if you're having a light flow, you should still change your pad every 3-4 hours. This will help prevent leaks and odors. Wrap a clean sock in toilet paper for a quick fix. If you have a spare pair of clean gym socks or you're wearing a pair of socks that's still clean, take one of the socks and wrap toilet paper around it several times. Place the sock in the crotch of your underwear, then wrap more toilet paper around your underwear and the sock to hold it in place. Socks are made to absorb sweat from your feet, so they should be absorbent enough to work for your period, too. Try a washcloth or another small cloth if you have one. If you can find a clean cloth, you can use that in place of a pad, as well. Fold it so it's about the size of a sanitary napkin and place it in your underwear until you can find a pad. It's a good idea to test whether the fabric is absorbent first. Run a small corner of the material under water. If it soaks up the water, you can use it as a pad, but if the water beads up and rolls off the fabric, you should find another option. Check first aid kits or craft supplies for cotton or gauze. Cotton balls, cotton wool, and gauze are all absorbent materials that you can use as a pad in a pinch. If you find cotton wool or gauze, fold and stack it together until it's the shape of a pad. If you have cotton balls, wrap at least 6-7 of them in toilet paper to keep them together. Wrap toilet paper around the pad and your underwear so it doesn't shift around. | Fold together a thick stack of paper towels or toilet paper. Place the stack on the crotch of your underwear. Wrap a long strip of toilet paper around your underwear 4-5 times. Change the paper pad at least every 3-4 hours. Wrap a clean sock in toilet paper for a quick fix. Try a washcloth or another small cloth if you have one. Check first aid kits or craft supplies for cotton or gauze. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Weave | How to Care for a Weave | To take care of a weave, shampoo your hair every 7-14 days, which will keep your weave clean and looking great. Whenever you wash your hair, apply conditioner to your leave-out hair, including the edges, hairline, and part, to help prevent breakage. After you wash your weave, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle it. Then, let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer on the lowest heat setting. To keep your weave looking shiny and untangled, apply some leave-in conditioner every day. | Shampoo your hair every 7 to 14 days. Wet your hair with lukewarm water. Pour a dime-sized amount of shampoo into your palm, then massage it into your scalp and through your extension. Be as gentle as possible, since your weave can tangle easily while shampooing. If you work out or sweat a lot, shampoo every 7 days. Otherwise, try to go about 14 days between shampoos. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos, which are more gentle on your weave and the hair underneath. Human and virgin hair weaves should be taken care of as if they were your own hair. Synthetic hair typically doesn't last as long. Consult your stylist to find out how to care for your particular synthetic weave. Some have specific washing instructions. Use a squirt bottle to wash between your braids. Mix shampoo and water into a nozzle bottle and squirt the mixture under and around your braids. Use your fingers to massage your scalp and between braids. Rinse out the shampoo, then repeat this two more times. Do not hold your head upside down to rinse, as this can cause tangles. After washing, sit under a hooded dryer to let the braids that serve as the foundation to your weave dry fully. Deep condition exposed or leave-out hair. Keep your leave-out hair — the edges, hairline and part — healthy and unbroken by deep conditioning every time you shampoo. Pour a dime-sized amount into your palms and smooth it over your hair. Rub gently with your fingertips, then cover with a shower cap and wait about 20 minutes. If you're having trouble reaching the roots with the conditioner, use a nozzle bottle to help you get into those areas. Rinse with warm water and follow with a light, leave-in conditioner. Use an antibacterial weave spray each day. A tight style, such as braids or locks, will take a long time to dry, making it more likely to develop a moldy smell. To prevent mildew from developing, use an antibacterial weave spray. Use after your shampoo and each day before you head out the door. Sit under a hooded dryer after washing to keep tight braids from smelling damp or moldy. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle. Working with wet, just-conditioned hair will make combing easier. Start combing at the bottom and gently work your way up until the weft is tangle-free. Be very gentle. If you pull too hard, you can loosen the weft and even damage your natural hair to the point it falls out. Dry your hair thoroughly. Weaves can get moldy and smell like mildew if left damp. To avoid this, be sure to dry your completely any time you get it wet. If possible, let it air dry. If you must use a hair dryer, use the lowest heat setting. Heat can loosen the bond of your weave, so limit the use of heat-styling tools as much as you can. Apply alcohol-free pomade to your edges. A little bit of light, alcohol-free pomade on your edges will tame frizz and keep your style smooth. Add a small amount of pomade to your palms, then gently smooth it over the edges. Avoid using too much product, which could weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Moisturize your weave daily. To freshen up between shampoos, apply a small amount leave-in conditioner to your weave each day. Massage the moisturizer gently into your scalp and through your natural hair and weft. This will keep your weave untangled and looking shiny. Visit your stylist once a month. Visiting your stylist often for professional maintenance will keep your weave fresh-looking. The stylist will trim any broken hairs, tighten loose braids, and make sure the weft is secure and your natural hair is healthy. Avoid scratching your scalp. Because you are only washing your hair every 7 to 14 days, your scalp might get itchy. Don't use your fingernails or a rat-toothed comb to scratch your scalp, since the skin is fragile and you could end up with scabs. Instead, use soothing oils and massage them gently into your scalp with the pads of your fingers. Mix tea tree oil with grapeseed, olive or coconut oils. Use a nozzle bottle to apply directly to your scalp. The tea tree oil will sooth and refresh your scalp. Don't use too much or your extensions will get oily. Avoid too much heat. When blow-drying your hair, be sure to use a low setting. Too much heat will harm your extensions. Also, avoid flat irons and curling irons. Styling once in a while is okay, but in general, your weave will last longer if you avoid applying heat and let it flow naturally. Excess heat can cause synthetic hair to melt or burn. Ask your stylist the best way to dry a synthetic weave. Keep your hair up. To relieve tension on your natural hair, as well as prevent frizz, tie your hair up whenever possible. If you are working around the house, jogging, heading to the grocery or just hanging out, keeping your hair up will allow your weave to look fresher and last longer when you want to wear it down. Cover your hair when sleeping. Wrapping your hair in a scarf at night will prevent it from tangling or getting frizzy and lumpy while you sleep. Any material will work, but many prefer the smoothness of a satin or silk scarf. Using a satin pillow case, with or without a head scarf, will also protect your weave. Braid your hair. An easy way to keep your weave wavy or curly is to braid it at night. Once it is sectioned and braided, tie it up in a head scarf to secure the braids in place while you sleep. If you wear your extensions straight, you can simply cover them at night. If you are looking for big, soft curls, use bobby pins to hold pin curls in place under your scarf. If you wear your extensions straight, wrap your extensions around your head before putting on a head scarf at night. You can even place the hair in a ponytail, so you won't wake up with tangles. Give your hair a break. Weaves last anywhere from six to 12 weeks, depending on the weave and how well you care for it. When it is time to take out your current weave, be prepared to wait two to four weeks before adding a new one. Your hair needs that break to avoid being permanently damaged. You'll want to thoroughly condition your hair during this time to get it in the best shape to support a new weave. | Shampoo your hair every 7 to 14 days. Use a squirt bottle to wash between your braids. Deep condition exposed or leave-out hair. Use an antibacterial weave spray each day. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle. Dry your hair thoroughly. Apply alcohol-free pomade to your edges. Moisturize your weave daily. Visit your stylist once a month. Avoid scratching your scalp. Avoid too much heat. Keep your hair up. Cover your hair when sleeping. Braid your hair. Give your hair a break. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-the-Height-of-a-Tree | How to Measure the Height of a Tree | The easiest way to measure the height of a tree is to fold a piece of paper in half so it forms a right triangle. Then, hold the triangle so one point faces your eye while the right angle and other point face the tree. Next, back up until the two points of the triangle and the top of the tree are all in line. Finally, use a tape measure to find the distance between where you're standing and the tree, and add your height to that distance. | Use this method to find the height of a tree without doing any math. All you need for this method is a piece of paper and a tape measure. No calculations are necessary; however, if you're interested in how this works, you might need to know a little trigonometry. The method Using a Clinometer or Transit goes into the full calculations and reasons why this work, but you don't need to go into it to find the height using this method. Fold a piece of paper in half so that it forms a triangle. If the paper is rectangular (not square), you'll have to make a rectangular sheet of paper into a square. Fold one corner over so it forms a triangle with the opposite side, then cut off the extra paper above the triangle. You should be left with the triangle you need. The triangle will have one right (90 degree) angle and two 45 degree angles. Hold the triangle in front of one eye by holding a corner opposite from the 90º right angle (see the above picture), and point the rest of the triangle toward you. One of the short sides should be horizontal (flat), and the other should be vertical (pointing straight up). You should be able to look up along the longest side by raising your eyes. The longest side, the one you'll be looking along, is called the hypotenuse of the triangle. Move back from the tree until you can sight the top of the tree at the top tip of the triangle. Close one eye and use the other to look directly along the longest side of the triangle, until you see the exact top of the tree. You want to find the point where your line of sight follows the longest side of the triangle to the very top of the tree. Mark this spot and measure the distance from it to the base of the tree. This distance is almost the full height of the tree. Add your own height to this, since you were looking at the tree from the height of your eyes off the ground. Now you have the full answer! To learn how this works, see the "Using a Clinometer or Transit" section. You don't need to do any calculations in this method, because there's a little trick: the tangent of a 45º angle (which you used) equals 1. The equation can be simplified to this: (Height of tree) / (distance from tree) = 1. Multiple each side by (distance from tree) and you get: Height of tree = distance from tree. Use this method if you only have a tape measure or ruler. You don't need any other equipment to use this method, and you should get an accurate estimate of how tall the tree is. You will need to do multiplication and division problems, but no other math. If you want to avoid doing any math at all, you can use a tree height calculator online, such as this one , and enter the measurements you find using this method. Measure your height. Use a tape measure or yardstick (meter ruler) to measure your height while standing straight. Do this while wearing the shoes you will be wearing to perform this method. Since you'll need a piece of paper anyway, write your height down so you don't forget the exact number. You'll need a single number, such as your height in inches, not a combination of feet and inches. If you're not sure how to convert into one number, you can use the height of a yardstick or meter ruler standing vertical instead (3 feet or 1 meter). Use the ruler's height and the length of the ruler's shadow anytime you are asked to use If you are in a wheelchair or cannot stand straight for another reason, measure your height in whatever position you'll be in when you go outside to measure the tree. Stand on sunny, flat ground near the tree. Try to find a spot where your shadow falls along flat ground so you can get an accurate measurement. For best results, do this method on a bright, sunny day. If the sky is overcast, it may be difficult to precisely measure the shadows. Measure the length of your shadow. Use a tape measure or yardstick (meter ruler) to measure the distance from your heels to the tip of your shadow. If you don't have someone to assist you, you can mark the end of the shadow by tossing a rock onto it while you're standing. Or better yet, place the rock anywhere on the ground, and then position yourself so the tip of your shadow is at the rock; then measure from where you're standing to the rock. Write down and label each measurement you make right after you make it, to avoid confusing them with each other. Measure the length of the tree’s shadow. Use your measuring tape to determine the length of the tree's shadow from the base of the tree to the tip of the shadow. This works best if the ground all along the shadow is fairly level; if the tree is on a slope, for example, your measurement won't be as accurate. Do this immediately after you've measured your shadow, since the sun's movement will cause the shadow length to change. If the tree's shadow is on a slope, there might be a different time of day when the shadow avoids the slope either by being shorter or by pointing in the other direction. Add 1/2 the tree's width to the length of the tree's shadow. Most trees grow straight upwards, so the highest tip of the tree should be above the exact middle of the tree. To get the total length of its shadow, you should add 1/2 the diameter of the tree trunk to your shadow measurement. This is because the highest tip is actually causing a longer shadow than you measured; some of it is just falling over the top of the tree trunk where you can't see it. Measure the width of the trunk with a long ruler or straight tape measure, then divide by 2 to get 1/2 the tree's width. If you're having trouble seeing how wide the trunk is, draw a tight square around the base of the trunk and measure one side of that square. Calculate the tree’s height using the numbers you wrote down. You should now have three numbers written down: your height, your shadow's length, and the length of the tree's shadow (including 1/2 its trunk width). Shadow lengths are proportional to the height of the object. In other words, (your shadow's length) divided by (your height) will always equal (the tree's shadow's length) divided by (the tree's height). We can use this equation to find out the tree's height: Multiply the length of the tree's shadow by your height. If you are 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall, and the tree's shadow is 100 feet (30.48 meters) long, multiple them together: 5 x 100 = 500 (or for the meter measurements, 1.5 x 30.48 = 45.72). Divide the answer by the length of your shadow. Using the example above, if your shadow is 8 feet (2.4 meters) long, divide your answer by that number. 500 / 8 = 62.5 feet (or in metric, 45.72 / 2.4 = 19.05 meters). If you're having trouble with the math, find a tree height calculator online such as this one. Use this method as an alternative to the shadow method. While this method is less accurate, you can use it when the shadow method won't work, such as on an overcast day. Also, if you have a tape measure with you, you can avoid having to do math. Otherwise, you'll need to find a tape measure later and do some simple multiplication problems. Stand far enough from the tree so you can view the whole tree—top to bottom—without moving your head. For the most accurate measurement, you should stand so that you are on a piece of ground that is about level with the ground at the tree's base, not higher or lower. Your view of the tree should be as unobstructed as possible. Hold a pencil at arm's length. You can use any small, straight object, such as a paint stick or ruler. Hold it in one hand and stretch your arm out so that the pencil is at arm's length in front of you (between you and the tree). Close one eye and adjust the pencil up or down so that you can sight the very top of the tree at the top of the pencil. This is easiest if you turn the pencil so that the sharpened point is pointing straight up. The tip of the pencil should thus just cover the top of the tree in your line of sight as you look at the tree “through” the pencil. Move your thumb up or down the pencil so that the tip of your thumbnail is aligned with the tree’s base. While holding the pencil in position so that the tip is aligned with the tree's top (as in step 3), move your thumb to the point on the pencil that covers the point (again, as you look “through” the pencil with one eye) where the tree meets the ground. Now the pencil is "covering" the entire height of the tree, from the base to the tip. Rotate your arm so that the pencil is horizontal (parallel to the ground). Keep your arm held straight out at the same distance, and make sure your thumbnail is still aligned with the tree's base. The thumb should be even with the center of the bottom of the tree. Have your friend move so that you can sight him or her “through” the point of your pencil. That is, your friend's feet should be aligned with the pencil's tip. He or she should be about the same distance from you as the tree is, not further away or closer toward you. Since, depending on the height of the tree, you may need to be some distance away from your friend, consider using hand signals (with the hand that is not holding the pencil) to tell him or her to go farther, come closer, or move to the left or right. If you have a tape measure with you, measure the distance between your friend and the tree. Have your friend remain in the place or mark the spot with a stick or rock. Then use a measuring tape to measure the distance between that spot and the base of the tree. The distance between your friend and the tree is the height of the tree. If you don't have a tape measure with you, mark the height of your friend and the height of the tree on the pencil. Scratch or draw a mark on the pencil where your thumbnail is; this is how long the tree appears from your perspective. Use the same method as before to arrange the pencil so it covers your friend, with the tip at your friend's head and your thumbnail at his or her feet. Make a second mark at this position of your thumbnail. Find the answer once you have access to a tape measure. You'll need to measure the length of each mark and the height of your friend, but you can do this after you go home, without having to return to the tree. Scale the difference in lengths on the pencil up to your friend's height. For instance, if the mark showing your friend's height is 2 inches (5 cm) from the tip and the mark for the tree's height is 7 inches (17.5 cm), then the tree is 3.5 times as tall as your friend, since 7 inches / 2 inches = 3.5 (17.5 cm / 5 cm = 3.5). If your friend is 6 feet (180 cm) tall, the tree is 6 x 3.5 = 21 feet tall (180 cm x 3.5 = 630 cm). Note : If you do have a tape measure with you when you're near the tree, you do not need to do any calculations. Read the step above for "if you have a tape measure" carefully. Use this method to get a more accurate measurement. The other methods are surprisingly accurate, but with a little more math and specialized tools you can get a more accurate reading. It's not as daunting as it sounds: all you need is a calculator that can calculate tangents, and a cheap plastic protractor, straw, and piece of string so you can Make a Clinometer yourself. A clinometer measures the slope of objects, or in this case the angle between you and the top of the tree. A transit is a more complicated tool used for the same purpose, but uses a telescope or laser to achieve more accuracy. The Piece of Paper method actually uses a piece of paper as a clinometer. This method, besides being more accurate, allows you to measure the height from any distance, instead of moving forward and backward to get the paper to line up with the tree. Measure the distance to a sighting position. Stand with your back to the tree and walk out to a point that is approximately level with the ground at the tree's base and from which you can clearly see the tree's top. Walk in a straight line, and use a measuring tape to measure your distance from the tree. You need not stand any set distance from the tree, but this method generally works best if your distance from the tree is about 1-1.5 times the height of the tree. Measure the angle of elevation to the tree’s top. Sight the top of the tree and use a clinometer or transit to measure the "angle of elevation" between the tree and the ground. The angle of elevation is the angle formed between two lines—the flat plane of the ground and your sight line, to some elevated point (in this case, the tree's top) — with you as the vertex of the angle. Find the tangent of the angle of elevation. You can find the tangent of an angle using a calculator or table of trigonometric functions. The method for finding the tangent may differ depending on your calculator, but usually you just push the “TAN” button, enter the angle, and then press the “equal” button (=). Thus if the angle of elevation is 60 degrees, you simply push “TAN” and then enter “60” and then press the equal sign. Click this link to go to an online tangent calculator. The tangent of an angle in a right triangle is defined by the side opposite the angle, divided by the side adjacent to the angle. In this case, the opposite side is the height of the tree, and the adjacent side is your distance from the tree. Multiply your distance from the tree by the tangent of the angle of elevation. Remember, you measured your distance from the tree at the beginning of this method. Multiply it by the tangent you calculated. The resulting number tells you how high the tree is above your eye level, since that's the level you calculated the tangent from. If you read the earlier substep about the definition of the tangent, you can see why this method works. As described earlier, the tangent = (tree's height) / (distance to tree). Multiply each side of the equation by the (distance to tree) and you get (tangent) x (distance to tree) = (the tree's height)! Add your height to the height you calculated in the previous step. Now you have the height of the tree. Since you used the clinometer or transit at eye level, not ground level, add your height to the measurement to get the total height of the tree. You can get a more accurate result by measuring your height at eye level, not to the top of your head. If you are using a stationary transit, add the height from the transit eyepiece to the ground, not your own height. | Use this method to find the height of a tree without doing any math. Fold a piece of paper in half so that it forms a triangle. Hold the triangle in front of one eye by holding a corner opposite from the 90º right angle (see the above picture), and point the rest of the triangle toward you. Move back from the tree until you can sight the top of the tree at the top tip of the triangle. Mark this spot and measure the distance from it to the base of the tree. Use this method if you only have a tape measure or ruler. Measure your height. Stand on sunny, flat ground near the tree. Measure the length of your shadow. Measure the length of the tree’s shadow. Add 1/2 the tree's width to the length of the tree's shadow. Calculate the tree’s height using the numbers you wrote down. Use this method as an alternative to the shadow method. Stand far enough from the tree so you can view the whole tree—top to bottom—without moving your head. Hold a pencil at arm's length. Close one eye and adjust the pencil up or down so that you can sight the very top of the tree at the top of the pencil. Move your thumb up or down the pencil so that the tip of your thumbnail is aligned with the tree’s base. Rotate your arm so that the pencil is horizontal (parallel to the ground). Have your friend move so that you can sight him or her “through” the point of your pencil. If you have a tape measure with you, measure the distance between your friend and the tree. If you don't have a tape measure with you, mark the height of your friend and the height of the tree on the pencil. Find the answer once you have access to a tape measure. Use this method to get a more accurate measurement. Measure the distance to a sighting position. Measure the angle of elevation to the tree’s top. Find the tangent of the angle of elevation. Multiply your distance from the tree by the tangent of the angle of elevation. Add your height to the height you calculated in the previous step. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Convince-Your-Mom-to-Buy-Clothes-You-Like | How to Convince Your Mom to Buy Clothes You Like | It can be frustrating if your mom doesn't buy clothes you like, but with the right approach, you can help convince her. Look online and decide what kind of clothes you want before you go shopping so your mom won't think you're choosing impulsively. If the clothes you want are kind of expensive, ask your mom to look at items on sale. You can also ask her to compromise by letting her choose from a few of your suggestions. If she says you can't have something you really want, try to stay calm even if you're annoyed or upset. This will make you seem more mature and she might let you have something else you choose. | Wear other stuff that you once bugged your mom to buy. Prove to her that you're going to get a lot of use out of the clothing you want now by showing her that you still wear clothes that you wanted really badly in the past–even if you hate them now. If you can't stand being seen in them, save them for the weekend and family functions, when you're less likely to see schoolmates. Build your own style. Feel free to take fashion cues from your friends (it's perfectly normal for you and your friends to influence each other), but stop short of wanting something just because that's what they're wearing these days. The more you follow your friends' lead, the less likely your mom will buy the clothes you pick out if she doesn't like them, just because she doesn't think your fashion choices are your own. Dress the way you want to dress and convince your mom that she won't have to buy you a whole new wardrobe the next time your friends switch theirs. If you're adopting a certain style, start small. Say you're Goth; your mom might refuse to buy you really ornate outfits right away because she thinks this is just going to be a “phase” for you. Choose simple ways to dress Goth in the beginning. Stick to black jeans, black shirts, black jackets, etc. Prove to her over time that this is more than just a phase. Convince her that more elaborate clothing won't be money wasted. Know what you want ahead of time. Convince your mom that this isn't just an impulse buy. Go to stores on your own or ask your mom to take you so you can just look at stuff. Try clothes on and see what you like. Then tell your mom you'll think it over before asking her to buy anything. Show her that this is something you really want and not just a passing fancy. Know exactly why you want stuff. Ask yourself why you like these clothes in the first place. Based on your answers, come up with clear reasons why it's important for you to have them. Use these reasons to convince your mom. Show her that you're putting actual thought into this, like an adult. For example, if she argues that these clothes are too “old” for you, tell her that you're only growing older; mention things like job- or college-interviews as reasons why you need to look more mature. Or, if you're talking about clothes for sports, show her why these clothes are better than others; if they'll last longer or prevent injury, point that out to her. Admit it if something’s “too” this or that. Think of why your mom might object to something before you show it to her. If the clothes you want really are too expensive, revealing, or outrageous, agree with your mom when she says so. She might still say no in the end, but she'll probably put more thought into it if you show her that you have, too–which means she might end up saying yes. Tell your mom what you don't like. Stop your mom from trying to force some other piece of clothing on you as a substitute. Explain to her exactly why you don't like it, whether it's the material, the cut, the fit, or whatever. Let her know what you're definitely not looking for and why so she knows what not to suggest. Offer your mom choices. For every item that you're shopping for, find a bunch of stuff you like; if you're only looking to buy one shirt, pull several off the rack. Show them all to her. Let her choose from your selection. Make her feel like she's still the one in control by giving her the final say. Improve your chances of getting what you want by including things that you know she won't buy. Want a bikini that's a little revealing? Add an even skimpier bikini to your pile. Want something that costs more than she'd like? Find stuff that costs even more than that so what you really want seems cheap in comparison. Watch for sales. Check the store's website. Go through circulars that come in the mail or with newspapers. Keep an eye out for the clothes you want, as well as the brand. Also ask your mom to become a rewards member at the store. This way she may get an even deeper discount when your clothes come on sale. Be patient. If the clothing you want is for summer or winter, wait until the end of the season for the store's clearance sale. You may have to wait until next summer or winter to wear it, but if you really love it, that shouldn't matter. Pitch in. Help your mom pay for the item. If you have a job, contribute your own money. If you receive an allowance, give her money that you've saved or tell her she can take the money out of future allowances. If you don't have any money of your own, offer to work for it. Volunteer to do extra chores around the house or anything else to make your mom's life easier. Pick chores that she knows you hate; that will show her how badly you want those clothes! Consider it a present. Think back: have you already asked your mom to get you something for your birthday or any gift-giving holiday like Christmas or Hanukkah? If you have, ask yourself which you'd rather have more: this piece of clothing or that other thing. If you'd rather have the clothes, tell your mom that you'd be happier with this if she hasn't already bought the other item. If you haven't asked for anything yet, tell your mom that this would be perfect. Promise not to wear it all the time. The more you wear clothes, the quicker they'll wear out, so don't plan on wearing it every other day. Tell your mom that it'll just be for special events: school pictures, holidays, dates, etc. Assure her that it won't be in constant risk of being ruined by some jerk at school who likes to spray people with ketchup bottles. Beware of brand names. Don't ask your mom to buy you something just because it was made by So-and-So. Remember that your mom can probably think of a dozen different brands that came into fashion and then went straight back out of it, whether they were Members Only jackets or Starter jackets. Ask yourself if you'd still like these clothes if they were from a no-name brand. Think of why you like it and share that with her. Agree to grow into it. Your mom probably doesn't want to spend a whole lot of money on one piece of clothing if you're still growing. Tell her that you're fine with buying a larger size. Prove to her that you really do like this piece by showing her that you're willing to wait before you can actually wear it. If you still have a whole lot of growth spurts ahead of you, think of any younger siblings or cousins who could wear it as a hand-me-down. Convince your mom that it'll continue to be used even after you outgrow it. Since it's hard to predict how your body will change, be careful with what clothing you choose. Try on sizes that fit you now for a sense of how a larger size will fit you later on. Don't buy anything too form-fitting, since it might not fit your form so well in the future. Make up for the price. If you're out shopping for a lot of clothes all at once, count this one piece of clothing as your “big buy.” Then think of ways to keep your mom from spending too much money on other stuff. Show her that you know she has to stick to a budget and that you're trying to find ways to help her do that. When you're looking at other clothes, check the price. If you can find something like it that costs less, go with that. Think of what clothes you already own. Do you still like them? Do they still fit? If you're still happy with them, tell your mom that you don't need to buy five or six new shirts just because it's a new school year. Settle for three or four. Offer to go to a thrift store to shop for the rest. Yes, some people act snotty about buying secondhand clothes, but don't let that stop you! You can find a lot of cool stuff there that you won't find anywhere else, which means there's less chance of everyone at school wearing the exact same thing as you. Plus, lots of people donate clothes they've never even worn. Be good. Do your chores, finish your homework, and keep your grades up in school. Show your mom that you're responsible. Do what she expects you to do without having to be told. Then go the extra mile and help around the house with things she didn't even ask you to do. Prove to her that you're mature and deserve to be taken seriously when you ask for things. Wait for the right time to ask for stuff. If your mom already seems stressed out, wait for another time. Catch her in a good mood, when she's relaxed and more willing to actually consider what you want. Don't blow your chance by asking her for stuff when she's already grumpy about something else. Be grateful when you ask. Make your mom feel like she's appreciated and not just an ATM. Show her that you're thankful for what she's already done for you before asking her for anything more. If she's already bought you something special recently, or if you know she has a big bill to pay or something like that, let her know that you think about these things. Don't just say, “Hey, Mom, can you get me this?” Instead, ask her if she has a minute. If she does, tell her that you know she has bills to pay, or you know she already bought you that other special thing, but if it's possible, could she maybe also get you this? Give your mom time to think. Before you ask for something, tell her that she doesn't have to answer right away. Let her know what you'd like from her, and then ask her to think it over, for as long as she needs. Don't demand an instant answer; if you do, she's more likely to say “no” right away, even if she isn't sure why, just because she doesn't have time to think it through. Be mature. If your mom says no, nod your head and say okay. Remember: you could still convince her to change her mind later, but she'll be less likely to if you throw a tantrum now. Instead, respect her decision. Show her that you take her seriously. This way she'll take you more seriously, too, so when you ask her again later, she'll really think about it instead of just repeating “no.” | Wear other stuff that you once bugged your mom to buy. Build your own style. Know what you want ahead of time. Know exactly why you want stuff. Admit it if something’s “too” this or that. Tell your mom what you don't like. Offer your mom choices. Watch for sales. Pitch in. Consider it a present. Promise not to wear it all the time. Beware of brand names. Agree to grow into it. Make up for the price. Be good. Wait for the right time to ask for stuff. Be grateful when you ask. Give your mom time to think. Be mature. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-Celery | How to Cut Celery | Before you chop your celery, separate the stalks from one another before washing them with cold water to remove dirt. Use a knife to cut the white bits off each stalk, then cut the stalks into thin slices resembling half moons. If you're preparing a snack, cut each stalk lengthwise down the middle before chopping the halves into 4-inch-long pieces to make celery sticks. Instead of slicing the stalks in half, cut your celery into 1 inch chunks if you're going to use it in a sauce. | Separate the celery stalks from one another. To separate the stalks, grab a stalk and gently pull it from the bottom until it snaps off. Repeat this process until all of the stalks have been separated. Separating the stalks will make cutting them much easier. Wash and trim the stalks. After the stalks have been pulled apart, wash each one with clean running water. This will help remove any dirt on the celery. Trim the stalks using a knife. Remove the white sections of each stalk by cutting them off with a knife. You want to be left with an all-green stalk. Peel the stalks if desired. If you want to get rid of the course strings in the outer layer of the celery, you can peel them. Use a vegetable peeler to peel off the outer layer of each stalk, being careful to use the peeler safely. You can also make a little cut into the top of each stalk and then break it off, which should allow you to pull down the length of the stalk and remove the strings. Hold the bottom of the stalk firmly if using a vegetable peeler and peel in controlled, smooth motions. Split the celery into long pieces for a snack. Cut your celery into snack-like pieces by slicing each stalk down the middle lengthwise. Then you can chop up the 2 halves into 3–4 inch (7.6–10 cm) pieces, choosing how long you want each celery stick to be. You can also skip the lengthwise cut, leaving the celery in its half moon form. This is perfect for holding your favorite spread, such as peanut butter, in the middle. Chop the stalks into large chunks for stocks, sauces, and stews. Using a sharp knife, cut the celery stalks into pieces that are 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm). Stop cutting when you reach the joint that connects to the leaves. Cut the celery into thin slices for salads or sautées. Cut the celery into small slices so that they resemble half moons. Most slices will be ⁄ 8 to ⁄ 4 inch (0.32 to 0.64 cm) thick. If you want larger half moons, you can cut the celery at an angle. This creates slices that are longer but just as thin. Create celery batons to use in soups and salads. Cut the stalk lengthwise into 2 or 3 even strips. Then cut each strip into sections that are 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 cm) long so that the celery pieces resemble batons, or tiny sticks. Dice the stalk finely for the smallest cut. Split each stalk into 2-4 sections lengthwise, so that you form long, skinny pieces. Keep one end of the stalk attached to the base/root/end in order to chop faster. Begin cutting up the celery crosswise, finely dicing the stalks to your desired size. Splitting the stalk down the middle before dicing will create fine dice, while splitting the stalk into 4 pieces will form incredibly fine dice. Finished. | Separate the celery stalks from one another. Wash and trim the stalks. Trim the stalks using a knife. Peel the stalks if desired. Split the celery into long pieces for a snack. Chop the stalks into large chunks for stocks, sauces, and stews. Cut the celery into thin slices for salads or sautées. Create celery batons to use in soups and salads. Dice the stalk finely for the smallest cut. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Tested-for-ADD | How to Get Tested for ADD | To get tested for ADHD, start by scheduling an appointment with a mental health professional who specializes in ADHD. This person will interview you to get a detailed idea of your past and current life experiences and challenges. They will also want to rule out other disorders that have similar symptoms to ADHD, so try to answer the questions as accurately and completely as possible. Additionally, your doctor may ask you to complete a few questionnaires, like the Vanderbilt Assessment, to gain more insight into your condition. | Track your activities and reactions over a couple of weeks. If you suspect you may have ADHD, pay attention to your emotions and reactions for a couple of weeks. Write down what you do and how you react and feel. Pay attention especially to your ability to focus and pay attention. Determine if you have symptoms of inattentive ADHD. In order to qualify for a diagnosis, you must exhibit at least five symptoms (for an adult) or six symptoms (for a child 16 and under) in more than one setting, for at least six months. Symptoms must be inappropriate for the person's developmental level and be seen as interrupting normal functioning on the job or in social or school settings. Symptoms for ADHD (inattentive presentation) include: Makes careless mistakes, is inattentive to detail Has trouble paying attention (tasks, playing) Doesn't seem to be paying attention when someone is talking to him Doesn't follow through (homework, chores, jobs); easily sidetracked Is organizationally challenged Avoids tasks requiring sustained focus (like schoolwork) Can't keep track of or often loses keys, glasses, papers, tools, etc. Is easily distracted Is forgetful Look for other symptoms of ADHD. An individual who is experiencing symptoms of Inattentive ADHD may also experience hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. These include: Fidgety, squirmy; taps hands or feet Feels restless (a child would run or climb inappropriately) Struggles to play quietly/do quiet activities “On the go” as if “driven by a motor” Excessive talking Blurts out even before questions are asked Struggles to wait for his turn Interrupts others, inserts self into others' discussions/games Visit your family doctor for a physical exam. It's a good idea to have a routine physical that will assess your overall health. Your doctor may also order specific tests, such as a blood test that checks lead levels, a blood test that looks for thyroid disease, and a CT scan or MRI to check brain activity. Choose the best medical professional for your diagnosis. Different types of doctors can offer different expertise. It may be helpful to visit more than one doctor to get a full diagnosis and treatment plan. A psychiatrist is trained in diagnosing ADHD and is licensed to prescribe medication. This person may not be trained in counseling. A psychologist is trained in diagnosing ADHD and is trained in counseling. This person is not licensed to prescribe medication in most states; however, psychologists in New Mexico, Louisiana, and Illinois can prescribe medication. Your family doctor is familiar with your medical history but may lack the specialized knowledge about ADHD. This person is also not trained in counseling. Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional. A psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in ADHD issues can make the diagnosis for you about ADHD. This person will interview you to get a detailed idea of your past and current life experiences and challenges. Assemble health records. Bring your health records to your appointment, as these may indicate certain health conditions that mimic symptoms of ADHD. Talk with your parents or other family members about your family medical history. ADHD can be genetic, so it is helpful for your doctor to know about your family's past medical issues. Bring employment records. Many individuals with ADHD experience difficulty at work, including time management, focusing and managing projects. These challenges are often reflected in job performance reviews as well as the number and types of jobs you've held. Bring these records to your appointment. Gather report cards and school records. Your ADHD has likely been impacting you for years. You may have gotten poor grades or you may have frequently been in trouble in school. If you can find your old report cards and school records, bring them to your appointment. Go back as far as possible, even to elementary school. If you think your child has ADHD, bring his or her report cards and samples of school work to the appointment. The mental health professional may also request behavior reports from your child's teachers. Bring your partner or family member with you. It can be extremely useful for the therapist to talk with other people about your possible ADHD. It might be hard for you to say that you're constantly restless or that you have trouble concentrating. Rule out other disorders. Many disorders mimic some of the symptoms of ADHD, contributing to misdiagnoses. Some of the conditions that may resemble ADHD include learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, epilepsy, thyroid dysfunction and sleep disorders. Talk with your doctor or mental health professional about whether you have any of these disorders. Recognize the possibility of comorbidity with ADHD. Comorbidity is the presence of two disorders in one patient. As if having an ADHD diagnosis isn't challenging enough, one out of every five with ADHD is diagnosed with another serious disorder (depression and bipolar disorder are common partners). One-third of children with ADD also have a behavioral disorder (conduct disorder, oppositional defiance disorder). ADHD tends to pair up with learning disabilities and anxiety, too. Fill out the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale. This questionnaire asks 55 questions about various symptoms, reactions and emotions that the individual feels. There are questions about hyperactivity, impulse control, focus, and so on. It also has questions for the assessment of personal relationships. If your child is getting tested for ADHD, you as parent will also fill out a Vanderbilt Assessment Scale questionnaire. Take the Behavior Assessment System for Children. This test evaluates symptoms of ADHD in children and young adults up to age 25. There are scales for parents and teachers as well as for the individual. The combination of these scales will assess the individual's positive and negative behaviors. Try the Child Behavior Checklist/Teacher Report Form. This form assesses various symptoms, including problems related to thought, social interactions, and attention, as well as multiple other factors. There are two versions of this checklist: one is for preschoolers aged 1½ to 5, and another for children aged 6 to 18. Ask about a brain wave scan. One alternative test is the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA). This electroencephalogram scans the patient's brain waves to measure the theta and beta brain waves that are emitted. The ratio of these brain waves is higher in children and teens with ADD. The Food and Drug Administration in the U.S. has approved the use of this test for children aged 6 to 17. Some experts consider this exam to be cost-prohibitive. They don't think the test adds information that can't already be assessed from the usual procedures for diagnosing ADHD. Take a continuous performance test. There are several computer based tests that clinicians use in conjunction with a clinical interview to determine the likelihood of ADHD. Continuous performance testing is used to measure sustained attention ability. , Ask your doctor about a test to track your eye movement. Recent studies have shown a direct link between ADHD and the inability to stop eye movement. This type of test is still in the experimental phase, but it has shown remarkable accuracy in predicting ADHD cases. See a mental health therapist. Adults with ADHD generally benefit from psychotherapy. This treatment helps individuals accept who they are, while at the same time helps them seek improvements to their situation. Cognitive behavioral therapy directly geared toward treating ADHD has been useful for many patients. This type of therapy addresses some of the core problems caused by ADHD, such as time management and organizational issues. You may also suggest to family members to visit a therapist. Therapy can also provide a safe place for family members to vent their frustrations in a healthy way and work out issues with professional guidance. Join a support group. Numerous organizations provide individual support as well as networking amongst members who can get together online or in person to share problems and solutions. Search online for a support group in your area. Find online resources. There are numerous online resources that provide information, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD and their families. Some resources include: Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) distributes information via its website, through webinars, and via newsletters. It also provides electronic support, one-on-one live support, and conferences for adults with ADHD. Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) was founded in 1987 and now has over 12,000 members. It provides information, training, and advocacy for persons with ADHD and those who care about them. ADDitude Magazine is a free online resource that provides information, strategies, and support for adults with ADHD, children with ADHD, and parents of persons with ADHD. ADHD & You provides resources for adults with ADHD, parents of children with ADHD, teachers and healthcare providers who serve persons with ADHD. It includes a section of online videos for teachers and guidelines for school staff to work more successfully with students who have ADHD. Talk with your family and friends. You may find it useful to talk about your ADHD with your family and trusted friends. These are people who you can call when you find yourself depressed, anxious or otherwise affected negatively. Learn about the brain structures of individuals with ADHD. Scientific analyses show the brains of persons with ADHD are slightly different in that two structures tend to be smaller. The first, the basal ganglia, regulates the movement of muscles and signals which should be working and which should be at rest during given activities. If a child is sitting at his desk in the classroom, for example, the basal ganglia should send a message telling the feet to rest. But the feet don't get the message, thus remaining in motion when the child is seated. The second brain structure that is smaller than normal in a person with ADHD is the prefrontal cortex, which is the brain's hub for conducting higher-order executive tasks. This is where memory and learning and attention regulation come together to help us function intellectually. Learn how dopamine and serotonin affect individuals with ADHD. A smaller-than-normal prefrontal cortex with lower-than-optimal dopamine and serotonin means greater struggles to focus and effectively tune out all the extraneous stimuli flooding the brain all at once. The prefrontal cortex influences the level of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is tied directly to the ability to focus and tends to be at lower levels in persons with ADD. Serotonin, another neurotransmitter found in the prefrontal cortex, impacts mood, sleep, and appetite. Eating chocolate, for instance, spikes serotonin causing a temporary feeling of well-being; when serotonin drops low, however, depression and anxiety result. Learn about possible causes of ADD. The jury's still out on the causes of ADHD but it's well accepted that genetics play a large role, with certain DNA anomalies occurring more often in people with ADHD. In addition, studies show correlations between children with ADHD to prenatal alcohol and smoking as well as to early childhood exposure to lead. | Track your activities and reactions over a couple of weeks. Determine if you have symptoms of inattentive ADHD. Look for other symptoms of ADHD. Visit your family doctor for a physical exam. Choose the best medical professional for your diagnosis. Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional. Assemble health records. Bring employment records. Gather report cards and school records. Bring your partner or family member with you. Rule out other disorders. Recognize the possibility of comorbidity with ADHD. Fill out the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale. Take the Behavior Assessment System for Children. Try the Child Behavior Checklist/Teacher Report Form. Ask about a brain wave scan. Take a continuous performance test. Ask your doctor about a test to track your eye movement. See a mental health therapist. Join a support group. Find online resources. Talk with your family and friends. Learn about the brain structures of individuals with ADHD. Learn how dopamine and serotonin affect individuals with ADHD. Learn about possible causes of ADD. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Light-a-Bunsen-Burner | How to Light a Bunsen Burner | To light a Bunsen burner, connect one end of the gas supply line to the gas main and the other end to the Bunsen burner. Turn the air ports so they're slightly open, then ensure that the gas supply valve is completely closed and turn on the gas main. Open the gas supply valve slightly, then immediately use a multi-purpose lighter or a flint striker to ignite the burner. | Use a Bunsen burner in a clean, uncluttered area. Put away notebooks, papers, and any other clutter that might pose a fire hazard. Avoid using a Bunsen burner below a shelf or other overhead equipment. Wear safety gear and tie back loose hair or clothing. In addition to wearing protective goggles and gloves, make sure your wardrobe is free of potential fire hazards. Tie back long hair, tuck in or remove loose clothing, and take off dangling jewelry. Remember to always wear closed-toed shoes in the lab. Consider wearing a lab coat to cover any loose clothing. Locate safety equipment, the fire alarm, and emergency exits. Before lighting the burner, know where to exit in case of an emergency, find the emergency gas switch, and locate the fire alarm. Note safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and dry powder flame retardants. Handle the burner by its base. Hold the Bunsen burner only by the base or by the collar at the bottom of the barrel. After the burner is lit, the barrel itself will be too hot to handle. To reinforce safety habits, avoid touching the barrel even if the burner isn't in use. Never leave a lit Bunsen burner unattended. Keep your eye on it at all times, and never leave the laboratory while it's lit. If you are working on something for a moment that does not require the flame, turn it down to the coolest yellow flame (known as a safety flame). Inspect the gas line before installing it. Make sure there are no cracks in the gas supply line, which is usually a thin rubber hose. Gently squeeze the tubing along the entire length while you look closely for visible cracks. If you see cracks, grab a new tube or ask your lab instructor for help. Connect the supply hose to the gas main and to the Bunsen burner. Ensure that the hose is pushed well up onto the gas main's ribs and is securely attached to the burner. Double check to make sure you've attached the supply hose to the gas main and not to an air intake or other fixture. The gas main outlet is a threaded nozzle that tapers to a point. Look for a label on the top of its handle, such as "GAS" or "VAC," or ask your lab instructor for help. Position the air ports so they’re slightly open. Locate the openings at the base of the chimney and twist the collar, or the outer metal shell, clockwise until the holes are closed. Then, twist the collar counterclockwise to open it just slightly. This will ensure that the flame is at its coolest once the gas is ignited. Twist the gas supply valve to close it completely. Find the needle gas valve at the bottom of the burner. Make sure it's tightly closed before you turn on the gas main. Whenever you put the burner away, you should make sure the needle gas valve is closed. That way, it'll be set up for the next person to use. You want the needle valve closed when you turn on the gas supply so you'll have complete control over how much gas you feed the burner when you ignite it. Open the gas main. Turn the handle of the gas supply main so that it is in line, or parallel, with the outlet and supply hose. At this point, you shouldn't hear any gas, which sounds like hissing. If you do, turn the gas off immediately and close the burner's needle valve. After you've made sure the burner's needle gas valve is closed, you can try turning on the gas supply outlet again. If you still hear a hissing noise, consult with your instructor to try and find the problem. Open the needle valve and get your striker ready. Have your striker or a multi-purpose lighter handy before opening the burner's valve. When you're ready, twist the needle valve at the bottom of the burner slightly. Stop as soon as you hear the hiss of gas escaping. Use a flint striker or lighter with a long nozzle. Don't use matches to light a Bunsen burner. Hold your striker above the top of the barrel and ignite it. Hold the striker or lighter 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) above the barrel. Squeeze the striker to create a spark, then pull it away as soon as the burner ignites. If you've never used a striker before, practice making sparks until you're comfortable using it. Use the needle valve to control the flame’s size. The needle valve on the bottom of the Bunsen burner adjusts the gas flow rate, which determines the height of the flame. More gas will create a larger flame, and less gas gives you a smaller flame. Open or close the needle valve until you've adjusted your flame to the appropriate size for your task. Twist the collar to adjust the flame’s temperature. The collar controls the amount of air entering the barrel, which determines the temperature of the flame. Close the collar so that no air enters the barrel for the coolest flame, or a safety flame. When you want to heat something, open the air ports until the flame is the right color. The flame gets hotter as it turns blue, and is hottest when it's almost invisible. Adjust the air flow slowly to avoid blowing out your flame. Use a medium blue flame for most applications. Typically, you'll want to create a medium-sized, hot blue flame, but the proper temperature and color depends on your task. If you're not sure, check with your lab supervisor or experiment's protocols. Remember to close the air ports to create a cooler flame when you're not heating something, and never leave the lit burner unattended. Adjust the air ports to create a cool flame. If your flame is hot and blue, twist the collar to close off the air flow and produce a yellow safety flame. Close the needle valve by turning it clockwise. Close the valve completely to cut off the gas supply. The flame should go out, and the valve will then be properly set for the next use. Turn off the gas main. Turn the valve handle so it's perpendicular to the gas line and hose. Before you leave the lab, double check the gas main to ensure you've turned off the gas. Wait for the burner to cool before putting it away. It should take about five minutes for the burner to cool. Even when it's cool, remember to handle it only from its base to reinforce safety habits. When it's cool, remove the supply hose, and return it and the burner to the proper lab storage area. | Use a Bunsen burner in a clean, uncluttered area. Wear safety gear and tie back loose hair or clothing. Locate safety equipment, the fire alarm, and emergency exits. Handle the burner by its base. Never leave a lit Bunsen burner unattended. Inspect the gas line before installing it. Connect the supply hose to the gas main and to the Bunsen burner. Position the air ports so they’re slightly open. Twist the gas supply valve to close it completely. Open the gas main. Open the needle valve and get your striker ready. Hold your striker above the top of the barrel and ignite it. Use the needle valve to control the flame’s size. Twist the collar to adjust the flame’s temperature. Use a medium blue flame for most applications. Adjust the air ports to create a cool flame. Close the needle valve by turning it clockwise. Turn off the gas main. Wait for the burner to cool before putting it away. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Beauty-Blender | How to Use a Beauty Blender | To use a beauty blender, start by moistening the sponge with water to prevent it from soaking up too much of the product you are blending. Dab the sponge into the makeup, and then tap the round bottom on your skin to apply the makeup. You can also use the pointed edge to apply makeup to smaller areas, like under the eyes and around the nose. After each use, wash the sponge with an antibacterial, fragrance-free dishwashing soap so it won't grow bacteria. After washing and air drying your beauty blender, it will be ready when you next need it. | Moisten the sponge with water. One of the biggest mistakes you can make with a Beauty Blender is using the sponge dry to apply makeup and skincare products. Before using it, make sure to dampen it under the sink so it's thoroughly saturated. That will cause the sponge to expand, so it won't soak up as much of your cosmetic products. You can use warm or cool water to dampen the Beauty Blender, but you may find your application more refreshing if you use cool water. If you don't have access to a sink when you're using your sponge, you can wet it with bottled water or even spritz it heavily with your favorite setting spray to dampen it. Squeeze the sponge to remove the excess water. While you want your Beauty Blender to be damp when you use it, it shouldn't be dripping wet. Before applying your makeup or other products, gently squeeze the sponge to remove all of the excess water. Beauty Blenders are fairly delicate, so don't wring the sponge to get the water out. You may end up tearing or ripping it. When you squeeze the sponge, it helps to wrap it in a clean towel or piece of paper towel. That will help absorb the excess water. Rehydrate the Beauty Blender as necessary. If you're doing a full face of makeup, you may find that your sponge starts to dry while you're applying it. To ensure that you get flawless results from the first step of your makeup routine to the last, keep a spray bottle of water, setting spray or facial mist on hand so you can lightly dampen the sponge when necessary. Beauty Blender also makes a reactivation spray to moisten the sponge if it starts to become dry while you're using it. Dab the sponge into the makeup. To use your Beauty Blender to apply foundation, concealer, blush, highlighter, setting powder, or any face makeup, press the damp sponge into the makeup. Don't dab it too hard, though, or you may wind up picking up too much product. For makeup products such as foundation, tinted moisturizer, BB cream, or concealer, it helps to put some on the back of your hand and dab the sponge into it there. For the best results, don't apply the makeup directly to the Beauty Blender. For makeup products that are in a compact, such as cream blush or highlighter, you can dab the sponge directly into the pan. For loose powder products, such as setting powder, shake some into the lid and dab the sponge into it there. For makeup items that you'll be applying to large areas of the face, such as a foundation or cream blush, dab the rounded bottom of the sponge into the makeup. For makeup that you're concentrating in small areas, such as concealer under the eyes or highlighter along the cheekbones, dab the pointed end of the sponge into the makeup. Bounce the Beauty Blender over your face. When you've dabbed some of the makeup onto the sponge, tap the round bottom against your skin to apply the makeup. Don't wipe the sponge across your face, but bounce it to gently stipple or press the makeup into the skin for a flawless finish. Stipple the sponge over your skin until all of the makeup is evenly blended. It may take a couple of bounces in the same area to fully blend the makeup. You don't have to press the sponge very hard against your skin to blend the makeup. Bounce it gently, and the sponge will do the rest of the work. Use the pointed edge to apply the makeup to smaller areas. To apply concealer or foundation under the eyes, around the nose, along the lips, or in another small areas, press the pointed edge of the Beauty Blender against the skin. You'll want to press a little harder than you would with the rounded edge to ensure that the makeup is completely blended into the skin. Wash the sponge after you use it. Because the Beauty Blender sponge is so absorbent, it can easily grow bacteria. You want it to be clean the next time you use it, so try to get in the habit of washing it after each use to ensure that it's always ready when you need it. Beauty Blender makes a liquid and a solid sponge designed specifically for washing your sponge. If you're on a budget, you can also wash your sponge with an antibacterial, fragrance-free dishwashing soap. A bar of antibacterial soap also works well for cleaning a Beauty Blender. To wash it, moisten the sponge with warm water and work some of the soap or cleanser into it. Create a lather, and keep washing until the water from the sponge runs clear. If there's a stain on your sponge that doesn't come clean from washing, soak it in a mixture of liquid soap and warm water overnight. If the makeup still doesn't come out of the sponge, try treating it with a thin oil, such as baby oil, before washing it. The oil can help break down the makeup that's trapped inside. Let your Beauty Blender sit out to air dry after you wash it. Dot the makeup onto your face. It can be difficult to dab the Beauty Blender into certain products, such as a concealer in a tube with a wand applicator or a cream blush stick. In those cases, dot the makeup directly onto the skin in the area(s) where you want to apply it. Start by applying a small amount of the makeup, and only adding more if you need it. The sponge will blend out the product quite a bit, so a little can go a long way. Stipple the Beauty Blender over the makeup. Once the makeup is dotted onto your skin, bounce the damp sponge over the product to gently blend it into the skin. If you're concerned about the makeup spreading too far as you blend, use the pointed end of the Beauty Blender. Because the sponge will pick up some of the product as you blend it out, be careful not to press the Beauty Blender onto other areas of the face or you may transfer the makeup. Roll the sponge over the area to smooth the makeup. When you stipple makeup that's already on the skin with the Beauty Blender, it can sometimes look a little patchy. To get a flawless, even finish, roll the side of the sponge over the area to smoothe out any streaks or patches. Rolling the side of the Beauty Blender all over your face is an ideal finishing step to your look no matter how you apply your makeup. It will ensure that your makeup is fully blended, and there are no harsh edges or streaks. Just as when you use your Beauty Blender to apply makeup, make sure to wash your sponge after you've finished blending out your makeup so it's ready for your next use. Start with a clean, dry sponge. While you should always dampen a Beauty Blender to apply makeup or skincare products, that's not the case if you're cleaning up makeup mistakes. Instead, make sure that your sponge is clean but completely dry before you start. It helps to have an extra Beauty Blender -- one that you can use wet to apply your makeup and one that you can leave dry in case you need it to clean up mistakes. Drag the Beauty Blender over areas with too much color cosmetics. If you've applied too much blush or bronzer, wipe the sponge over the areas to help tone down the color. Because the sponge is dry, it will pick up more of the makeup and give you a more natural finish. Roll the sponge over areas with cakey face makeup. If you've applied too much foundation, concealer, or setting powder, you can use the dry sponge to help pick up some of the makeup. Roll the side of the Beauty Blender over areas that look cakey, and the sponge will remove the excess. You can use the same technique to smoothe out streaky foundation or lines around the edge of your face. Apply skin care products with a white Beauty Blender. The sponge is also ideal for pressing skin care products into the skin to ensure that they're fully absorbed. For the best results, though, use the Pure Beauty Blender, which is white so it doesn't contain any dyes that might irritate your clean skin. Make sure to wet your Pure Beauty Blender before applying your moisturizer, serum, sunscreen, or other products just as you would when applying makeup. That way, you won't wind up wasting your skin care products because the sponge won't absorb as much. Use a black Beauty Blender to apply self-tanner. It can be difficult to apply self-tanner with a smooth, streak-free using your hands or even a large mitt. The sponge makes it easy to stipple the tanner into the skin for even color all over. Use the Beauty Blender Body Blender, though, which is black and won't be stained by the self-tanner. The black Beauty Blender is also ideal for applying dark bronzers and long-wearing foundation that might be difficult to wash out of the traditional Beauty Blender. Do detail work with a Micro Mini Beauty Blender. While the pointed end of the sponge is small enough to get into nooks and crannies, it doesn't always offer the precision you might need. The Micro Mini Beauty Blender is a better option because it's ¼ the size of the original. Use it to apply concealer under the eyes, set undereye concealer with powder, or contour and highlight the face. You can also use a Micro Mini Beauty Blender to apply cream eyeshadow to your lids. | Moisten the sponge with water. Squeeze the sponge to remove the excess water. Rehydrate the Beauty Blender as necessary. Dab the sponge into the makeup. Bounce the Beauty Blender over your face. Use the pointed edge to apply the makeup to smaller areas. Wash the sponge after you use it. Dot the makeup onto your face. Stipple the Beauty Blender over the makeup. Roll the sponge over the area to smooth the makeup. Start with a clean, dry sponge. Drag the Beauty Blender over areas with too much color cosmetics. Roll the sponge over areas with cakey face makeup. Apply skin care products with a white Beauty Blender. Use a black Beauty Blender to apply self-tanner. Do detail work with a Micro Mini Beauty Blender. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-a-Car | How to Maintain a Car | To maintain a car, you should change the oil every 3,000 miles to help the engine run smoothly. Also, make sure you replace the air filter in your car once per year, which will prevent harmful debris from getting into your engine. In addition to replacing your air filter, drain and flush your coolant system once a year, and add more fluid to the reservoirs in your engine bay whenever they get low. You can also increase your vehicle's lifespan just by using the right octane fuel for your engine, which should be listed in the owner's manual. | Look for application-specific needs in your owner’s manual. While many aspects of routine maintenance on your care are universal, there are some that may be specific to your car's particular make, model, or year. Check in the owner's manual for scheduled maintenance requirements to ensure you don't miss any important ones. Some cars need to have their timing belts replaced at specific mileage intervals. Otherwise, you risk doing damage to your cylinder head. If you don't have an owner's manual, refer to the manufacturer's website for further guidance. Check the fluid reservoirs in the engine bay and add more fluid when needed. Your engine bay has plastic reservoirs for brake fluid, engine coolant, windshield washer fluid, and power steering fluid. The lower line on the reservoir is the “fill” point. Any time you see the fluid drop below that line, add more until it's back up to the higher line, which is the “full” point. Some vehicles have specific requirements for the type of coolant or brake fluid you use. Refer to your owner's manual or an application specific repair manual to see what kind is right for your specific car. To fill each reservoir, unscrew the cap and pour the fluid in until it reaches the “full” point as indicated on the side. Then screw the cap back on. every 3,000 miles. Change your oil Once you hit the 3,000-mile mark, jack up the car and slide a container beneath the oil pan. Remove the drain bolt (the only bolt running into the oil pan) and allow the oil to drain out into the container. Then locate the oil filter and remove it it. Put a bit of oil on your finger and run it along the seal of the new filter, then screw it in place. Return the drain bolt to the oil pan once it has finished draining. Refill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil once the new filter is in place and you have reinserted the drain plug. Different vehicles have different oil capacities and requirements. Refer to your owner's manual or an application specific repair manual to find out what type and amount of oil you need for your car. Swap out your air filter every year. The air filter prevents sand and debris from getting into your engine from outside. Most filters need to be replaced annually, though some aftermarket filters can be cleaned instead of replaced. Find the airbox at the end of the intake pipe that leads into the top of the engine. Release the 2 to 4 clips holding it closed and open the top to access the air filter. The filter just sits inside the air box. Remove it with your hand and set the new one in its place. Close the air box again and use the clips to secure the lid. Most mechanics recommend you swap out your air filter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), but it depends on where you live. For example, if you live in a busy city or near a freeway, you're probably going to need to change the filter out more frequently. Use the right octane fuel for your engine. The octane rating of fuel is a measurement of the fuel's stability under pressure. High compression or forced induction engines (turbocharged or supercharged engines) require a higher octane fuel than most other vehicles. Using a lower octane fuel could cause damage to the engine and create real problems in the future. Most cars that require “premium” fuel will say so on the instrument cluster of the dashboard and over the fuel filler cap. Check your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website if you're still unsure what octane level of fuel your vehicle needs. Install a new fuel filter every 40,000 miles. The fuel filter blocks the passage of dirt and sediment from your fuel tank to the engine itself. To replace the filter, locate it along the fuel line running from the gas tank to the front of the car. It will look like a cylinder with a nozzle coming out of the front and back. Place a container beneath it to catch any leaking fuel, then use a flat head screwdriver to pop off the clips holding the fuel lines on the nozzles. Loosen the bracket holding the old fuel filter in place and slide it out. Slide the new one into the bracket and tighten it down. Attach the fuel lines to each nozzle and reinsert the clips to hold them in place. If you break the clips, you can buy new ones at your local hardware store. Drain and flush your coolant system once a year. Jack up the vehicle and place a container beneath the radiator's drain plug. Open the drain plug and allow all of the coolant to pour out. Then close the drain plug again. Open the radiator cap at the top of the radiator and fill it with water, then close the cap and drain it again. Then refill the radiator with the right coolant for your vehicle. Most vehicles require a 50/50 water and coolant mixture. You can usually purchase pre-mixed coolant at your local auto parts store. Check your owner's manual or a vehicle specific repair manual to see how much coolant to add and what specific type of coolant your car needs. Clean your radiator with bug remover when it gets dirty. Spray radiator bug remover onto the radiator and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Don't touch or scrub the radiator itself. Touching it may bend the blades or result in injury since they are sharp. Instead, allow the bug remover to set for around 2 minutes and then spray it off with a hose. Read the instructions on the bug remover you purchase to make sure you use it properly. Replace your brake pads every 20,000 miles. Failing brakes can be extremely dangerous. If you think your brakes may be failing, have them serviced immediately. To do it yourself, loosen the car's lug nuts and then jack the vehicle up. Support the car with jack stands then remove the lug nuts the rest of the way. Locate the brake caliper (it looks like a vice clamped onto the circular rotor) and remove the 2 bolts that hold it in place. Slide it off the rotor and use a C-clamp to compress the piston back into the caliper. At that point, you can install the new brake pads into the caliper by sliding them into place where the old ones were. Remove the C-clamp, place the caliper back on the rotor, then reinsert the 2 bolts that hold it in place. Repeat that process on the other side, then put the wheels back on and lower the car. Change out worn or damaged belts. Check your belts for signs of cracking or advanced wear like rub marks. Then, check the belt's tension to ensure it hasn't stretched out. If you spot signs of damage or the belt doesn't have enough tension, replace it. Insert a breaker bar into the opening on the auto-tensioner pulley and turn it counterclockwise if your car is equipped with one, otherwise, loosen the 2 bolts holding the alternator on the bracket to relieve the tension on the belt. Slide it off of all the pulleys then put the new on one in its place. Make sure to follow the diagram on the sticker in your engine bay (or in an application-specific repair manual) when running the new belt through the pulleys. Use the breaker bar on the auto tensioner or apply pressure to the alternator to add tension to the belt, then release the tensioner pulley or tighten the alternator bolts in place to keep the belt tight. Replace cracked or damaged hoses. With the hood open, look over the rubber hoses in the engine bay for any signs of damage. If you spot a damaged hose, place a drain pan beneath it and loosen the hose clamps with pliers or a screwdriver. Remove the hose and take it to your local auto parts store to get a replacement one of the correct length and interior diameter. Install the new house in place of the old one and re-tighten the hose clamps. Add a 50/50 water and coolant mixture to the coolant reservoir until it reaches the full line again when you're done. Clean your battery contacts once a year. The connection for your battery can sometimes get corroded or covered in grime, making it harder for the electrical current to flow through the car's system. Use the correct sized wrench or socket and ratchet to loosen the bolt holding the negative (-) cable on the battery, then slide the cable off. Then do the same with the positive (+) cable. Add 1 tablespoon (13.8 g) of baking soda to 1 cup (240 ml) of water, then dip a steel toothbrush in the mixture. Use the brush and mixture to clean all corrosion and grime off of the battery posts and the metal connections on the cables. Wipe the battery posts clean with a damp rag, then connect the positive cable to the battery again. Reconnect the negative cable last. Test your lights and replace any bulbs that have blown out. Ask a friend to stand in front of your car while you turn on your headlight low beams and then high beams. Then test the left and right turn signals. Next, ask your friend to move to the back of the car while you test your brake lights and each turn signal once again. You can access blown out headlight bulbs from behind the headlight housing inside the engine bay. Tail lights are usually accessed through the inside of the trunk. Unplug the wiring pigtail going into your headlight or taillight, then twist the bulb housing counterclockwise and pull it backward to remove it. Replace the bulb and reinsert it. If you can't figure out how to replace a bulb that's gone out, refer to the vehicle's owner's manual or an application-specific repair manual for more guidance. Check and replace fuses as they blow out. If some lights go out in the interior of your car, chances are good that it's a blown fuse. Locate the 2 fuse boxes in your car. One is usually near your left knee when sitting in the driver's seat and the other is often found inside the engine bay. Use the diagram on the fuse box lids to find the right fuse for the lights that went out, then remove that fuse and replace it with one rated for the same electrical amperage. The number of amps a fuse can withstand is written on the fuse itself. Make sure the new fuse has the same number written on it as the blown one you're replacing. If you can't locate your fuse boxes or they don't have the diagram, refer to the owner's manual or an application specific repair manual to find the fuse that's gone out. Replace your spark plugs every 30,000 miles. Open the hood and locate the spark plug wires running into the top of the engine. Grip the closest wire to you low at its base and pull it up to unplug it from the spark plug. Use a spark plug socket and a ratchet to unscrew the spark plug and pull it up and out of the engine. Gap the new spark plug using a spark plug gapping tool. You'll find the correct gap measurement in the vehicle's owner's manual or an application specific repair manual. Place the new plug in the spark plug socket and insert it into the engine. Insert it first by hand and then tighten it with a ratchet. Reconnect the spark plug wire and repeat the process for each cylinder. Use an OBD-II scanner to check and clear error codes. If your check engine light comes on, turn the vehicle off and plug an OBD-II scanner into the rounded trapezoid-shaped port located beneath the steering wheel. Turn the key in the ignition to “accessory” and turn on the code scanner to see what set off the check engine light. Write down the code if the code scanner doesn't give you an English description. You can look the code up on the manufacturer's website or in an application-specific repair manual. Use any error codes you find to help you determine if there is something wrong with your vehicle that may need repairs. Once you make repairs, use the code scanner to clear the error codes and turn off the check engine light. You can purchase OBD-II scanners at your local auto parts store, but they can often scan your car for your for free. and add air when needed. Check your tire pressure Look at the side of your tire and find where it says, “max pressure” followed by a number and the letters “PSI.” Then, unscrew the cap on the tire and press a tire gauge onto the nozzle to see what the pressure inside the tire actually is. If it's lower than a few PSI (pounds per square inch) below the maximum rating, use an air compressor to add air to the tire until it's within a few PSI of the max. Many tire air machines at gas stations have a tire gauge built into them. Low tire pressure can reduce your fuel mileage and cause your tires to wear out prematurely. Use a penny to check the tread on your tires for wear. You can use a penny to assess the level of tread left on your tires quickly. Turn the penny upside down and hold it so you can clearly see Lincoln's head. Insert the penny into the groove between the tire treads and see how much of Lincoln's head you can still see clearly. If you can see Lincoln's hair, you will need new tires soon. If you can see Lincoln's entire head, you need new tires immediately. Rotate your tires every 5,000 miles. Make sure the tread on your tires wear evenly by swapping them on the car periodically. Jack the car up and support its weight with jack stands, then take the wheel and tire from the rear of the car and install on the front. Install what was the front wheel onto the rear. Then do the same on the other side. Front and rear tires wear differently because the front tires do most of the braking and turning. With some tires, you can swap them from side to side as well. If your tires have directional arrows on the sideway, keep those arrows pointed toward the front of the car. Do not swap the tires to the other side. Swap out your windshield wipers when they start to streak. Windshield wipers are an important piece of safety gear for your car. When they begin to make streaks on your windshield, it means they need to be replaced. On most cars, you can grab the wiper and pull it out away from the windshield. Then turn the wiper so it is perpendicular to the wiper arm and slide it down off the arm's hook to remove it. Slide the new wiper onto the hook, then rotate it so it is parallel with the wiper arm. If you can't figure out how to remove the wiper blade, refer to your owner's manual or an application-specific repair manual. Wax your car to protect the paint twice per year. The paint on your car does more than just keep it looking nice. It also prevents rusting that can lead to expensive repairs. Wash your car and then apply a fresh layer of wax to the paint every 6 months to give it a bit of added protection and stave off any potential rusting that could develop. First wash the car with automotive soap and rinse it thoroughly. Allow it to dry or dry it with towels. Apply the wax to the car's paint using the provided applicator in a swirling motion, then wait for it to dry completely. Buff the wax off using a clean chamois cloth. | Look for application-specific needs in your owner’s manual. Check the fluid reservoirs in the engine bay and add more fluid when needed. every 3,000 miles. Swap out your air filter every year. Use the right octane fuel for your engine. Install a new fuel filter every 40,000 miles. Drain and flush your coolant system once a year. Clean your radiator with bug remover when it gets dirty. Replace your brake pads every 20,000 miles. Change out worn or damaged belts. Replace cracked or damaged hoses. Clean your battery contacts once a year. Test your lights and replace any bulbs that have blown out. Check and replace fuses as they blow out. Replace your spark plugs every 30,000 miles. Use an OBD-II scanner to check and clear error codes. and add air when needed. Use a penny to check the tread on your tires for wear. Rotate your tires every 5,000 miles. Swap out your windshield wipers when they start to streak. Wax your car to protect the paint twice per year. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Adjust-an-E-Z-Go-Golf-Cart-Governor | How to Adjust an E Z Go Golf Cart Governor | To adjust an EZ Go Cart Governor engine, start by removing the seat so that you can access the engine. Once the seat is off, remove the screws from the black plastic cover at the rear of the seat and then set the cover aside. After you have taken off the cover, look for the thickest cable coming from the gas pedal and follow it until you find a small spring wrapped around a metal rod. Then, loosen the small nut and tighten the larger nut by a quarter turn at a time until you are happy with the speed the engine goes. | Tighten the governor spring located in the engine of most golf carts to adjust your cart's top speed. 90% of EZ Go Carts have simple springs which limit the speed of the engine. To raise the top speed of your golf cart, all you need to do is locate this spring and tighten it slightly. If you cannot find this spring, you likely have a newer model that is more difficult to adjust, though this is rare. Lift up the seat. Remove the seat cousins, which hide the engine. You may have to unscrew the seat in newer models. Remove the screws from the black plastic cover at the rear of the seat. There should be five screws in most models. The engine is in the front of golf carts, underneath this panel. Take off the plastic cover and set it aside with the seats. Follow the thickest cable coming from the gas pedal until your find a small spring wrapped around a metal rod. This is the governor. The spring apparatus will have two nuts, one small nut and one larger nut, holding it onto the rod. If you are curious, this is your cart's carburetor. Loosen the small nut and tighten the larger nut. The more you tighten the larger nut, the faster your cart will go. Start slowly, only tightening the nut a quarter turn to start. You can over-stress the engine if you try to run it too quickly, and it will skip and potentially burn out if you are too eager. Tighten up the small nut on the governor to keep the spring in place. Test the speed of the cart. After you are satisfied with how fast your cart goes, tighten the small nut back up. As you test, listen for whining noises, skips, or odd clunking movement in the cart-- this means you've tightened the governor too much and need to dial it back. Replace the black cover to start driving. Put the cart back together how you found it and enjoy your ride. Know that upping a cart's top speed will cause the engine to wear faster. You'll likely need to get repairs and replacement parts faster on a cart with an adjusted governor. In addition, any cart that can go above 19mph is officially a motor vehicle, and you legally need seatbelts and inspections. This shouldn't be a big problem, but it is worth knowing. Remove the seat and plastic covering over the engine. Sometimes you'll need to remove screws while some models have seats that pop right out. Expose the engine so that you can get to work adjusting the motor. If you don't have a central governor spring, you can still get your cart to move a little faster. Locate your clutch pedal and line. The clutch is the pedal (sometimes a handle near your knee) that you use to put the car into reverse or change speeds. You can adjust the clutch to send more gas to your engine, moving you faster. Find the small metal rod right next the clutch and the attached cable. The length of this cable determines how much gas flows into your engine. Again, you should remember that the cart's motor will struggle the faster you make it move. So test every change and listen for clunks or stalls to make sure you protect your motor. Loosen the nut attaching this cable to the metal protrusion to increase the speed. You should see the cable lengthening slightly. This will make your cart faster. Tighten the nut to make the cart move slower. Know that you cannot adjust the governor if this cable or the governor spring are not visible. This is most common on modern, all-electric engine. Many manufacturers, including EZ Go, do not want consumers tampering with their engines, and have thus hidden the governors in the spark plug ignition. This is very difficult to adjust without ruining the engine, and should be left to trained professionals. | Tighten the governor spring located in the engine of most golf carts to adjust your cart's top speed. Lift up the seat. Remove the screws from the black plastic cover at the rear of the seat. Follow the thickest cable coming from the gas pedal until your find a small spring wrapped around a metal rod. Loosen the small nut and tighten the larger nut. Tighten up the small nut on the governor to keep the spring in place. Replace the black cover to start driving. Know that upping a cart's top speed will cause the engine to wear faster. Remove the seat and plastic covering over the engine. Locate your clutch pedal and line. Find the small metal rod right next the clutch and the attached cable. Loosen the nut attaching this cable to the metal protrusion to increase the speed. Know that you cannot adjust the governor if this cable or the governor spring are not visible. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Door-Alarm | How to Make a Door Alarm | If you've already gathered all of your materials and stripped the ends of 3 insulated wires, tape a battery and buzzer onto a wooden board. Then, wrap 2 exposed wires around each end of a clothes pin. Connect 1 of the wires to the positive part of the battery, and insert the other wire into your buzzer. Place a piece of cardboard between the wires that are wrapped around the clothespin to break the circuit. Use electrical tape to connect the remaining wires to the negative battery end and buzzer input. | Gather your materials. The supplies you need should all be available at your local hardware store or home center. If a 1.5 volt buzzer isn't available at your local hardware or home center, try looking at an electronics store. All things considered, these supplies should cost around $30 if you have to buy all of the following: 1.5 volt battery 1.5 volt mini buzzer Cardboard (like from a cereal box) Electrical tape Glue Insulated wire (3 strands, small gauge) Piece of plywood (4x12 in (10.2x30.5 cm) or larger) Tape measure (or measuring stick) Wall hangers (glue-based, removable) Wooden clothespin (with spring) 3 - 5 ft (.91 - 1.5 m) of string Wire snips (or sturdy scissors) Wire strippers Attach the plywood to the wall next to your door. Use removable wall hangers or tape to attach the wood on the wall. This will be the base of your door alarm. You may need to drill holes in the wood to hang it from the hangers. Generally, you'll want to attach your piece of wood close to the top of the door, within a foot (30.5 cm) from the door frame. Alternatively, you can place the alarm flat on a desk, nightstand, or bookshelf positioned close to the door so you don't have to hang it. An alarm that's high up will be harder to reach and deactivate. Doing this, however, might require more string. Cut three strands of insulated wire. Use a pair of sturdy scissors or wire snips to cut three stands of wire each one foot (30.5 cm) long. If using scissors, you may have to work these back and forth before the wire weakens and cuts. Measure the wires with a tape measure or measuring stick and bend the wires where you will cut them. This will make it easier to cut accurately. If you find that your scissors don't cut the wire well, a sharp knife, like a utility knife, can work as a substitute. Strip the ends of each strand. Each wire should be covered in an insulated coating. This can be stripped off with your wire strippers. Place two inches (5 cm) of wire into the slot on the strippers that is marked for the gauge of wire you are using. Close the strippers firmly and pull the wire through to remove the insulation. Do this for both ends of each strand. Scissors or a utility knife can also be used to remove insulation. Cut the insulation until you hit the metal wire on the inside, then peel off the insulation. If the insulation doesn't come free easily, use a pair of pliers to grip the insulation firmly and pull it off. Tape the battery and buzzer onto your wooden board. Use electrical tape to attach these to the wood. The tape should not interfere with or cover any of the connections for the electrical circuit for the buzzer, nor should it cover the positive (+) or negative (-) ends of the battery. Your buzzer may come with screw holes. For a sturdier alarm, you can screw your buzzer into the wood. Be careful to use short nails so these don't protrude through the board. Wrap the stripped wire around the ends of the clothespin. Wrap one stripped end of two pieces of wire around frontmost divot of the top of the clip-end of the clothespin. Do the same to the bottom of the clip-end of the pin with a separate wire. Twist the stripped wires around the pin until they are tight. When the pin closes, the wires should touch. This will complete the circuit that sets off your alarm. Connect the bottom-pin wire to the battery. Position the wire so it is directly touching the positive (+) end of the battery. Use a piece of electrical tape to fasten the wire in place. If your battery is in a dock or cradle, attach the wire to the positive connector or wire for the cradle and tape it in place. Connect one non-battery wire to the buzzer. There should be a small opening in the buzzer where you can insert your wire. There should be two connectors, positive and negative. Touch one of your top clothespin wires directly to the positive input for the buzzer. Alternatively, your buzzer may have wire leads coming off of it. Strip these, if necessary, and twist your non-battery wire to the positive buzzer wire. Break the circuit with a piece of cardboard. Cut a medium sized piece of cardboard to insert between the wires wrapped around the clothespin. Insert the cardboard so that the wires on the clothespin do not touch when it is closed. This will stop the buzzer from going off. Any non-conductive material will work to break your circuit. Try small pieces of paper, wood, or rubber. You may need to fold thin cardboard so there is more distance between wires. Very thin cardboard may not reliably keep the circuit broken. Connect the remaining wires. Attach the stripped end of one of your remaining free clothespin wires to the negative (-) end of the battery. Fasten it with electrical tape. Then, in the same fashion as the first, attached the final clothespin wire to the negative (-) input for the buzzer. After you finish attaching the wire to the buzzer, cover any remaining bare wires with tape. While the circuit is engaged, touching bare wire will result in a shock. Be careful not to knock out the circuit breaker between the wires of your clothespin. Doing so will complete the circuit, and likely cause a small shock when you try to attach the wire to the buzzer. Test the switch by completing the circuit. Lay your alarm on a flat surface. Open the clothespin and remove the circuit breaker (piece of cardboard). When the clothespin closes, the circuit should complete and the buzzer turn on. The ends of stripped wire on the clothespin should be in good contact. If they aren't or are just barely touching, wrap more wire around the clothespin. When adjusting the clothespin wires, disengage your battery from the circuit to prevent getting shocked. Check connections and the battery if the buzzer doesn't activate. If the buzzer doesn't activate, one of the connections is likely loose. Reinsert the breaker (cardboard) and refasten all connections. After that, if the alarm still doesn't work, replace your current battery with a new one. To improve connections between wires, wrap wires together. After that, tape bare wires to prevent accidental shocks. To improve the connection between connectors, use pliers to coil the end of the wire in a small circle. The circle should be small enough to fit against the connector. Tape the wire circle to the connector. In some cases, you may have a faulty buzzer. Test your buzzer by hooking it up to a traditional power source as directed in the buzzer directions. If it doesn't work, your buzzer is faulty. Glue the clothespin to the board. Remove your board from the wall. Your battery and buzzer should already be taped to it. Glue the clothespin so it is positioned somewhat close to the battery and buzzer. Follow the glue directions and allow the glue to dry completely before moving on. A clothespin is small enough that general purpose glue or hot glue should work to fasten it. For best results, you may want to use a sturdy glue or a wood glue. Manage excess wires with tape and hang the board. Wires sticking out in all directions can be a hazard. They can snag on objects or be easily pulled out. Damaged wires will deactivate your alarm. Tape your wires to the board to prevent them from snagging or being pulled out. Then re-hang the board on the wall. Attach the string to the piece of cardboard in the clothespin. Tape a piece of string to the cardboard. Alternatively, use scissors to make a small hole in the cardboard and tie the string to the hole in the cardboard in a simple knot. Make sure the string is firmly attached to the cardboard. The door may be opened suddenly. If weakly fastened, the string may pull free while the cardboard remains. In this case, the alarm will not go off. Fasten the other end of the string to your door. Attach the string to the doorknob or tape it to a part of the door. Adjust the length of the string so that when the door opens, the string is pulled. When the cardboard pulls out, the alarm will go off. If your door is painted or made of a nice material, you may not want to tape the string to it. Some tape, when peeled away, can damage paint or wood. | Gather your materials. Attach the plywood to the wall next to your door. Cut three strands of insulated wire. Strip the ends of each strand. Tape the battery and buzzer onto your wooden board. Wrap the stripped wire around the ends of the clothespin. Connect the bottom-pin wire to the battery. Connect one non-battery wire to the buzzer. Break the circuit with a piece of cardboard. Connect the remaining wires. Test the switch by completing the circuit. Check connections and the battery if the buzzer doesn't activate. Glue the clothespin to the board. Manage excess wires with tape and hang the board. Attach the string to the piece of cardboard in the clothespin. Fasten the other end of the string to your door. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Know-if-Your-Senior-Dog-Is-Healthy-Enough-to-Travel | How to Know if Your Senior Dog Is Healthy Enough to Travel | If you're unsure if your senior dog is healthy enough to travel, take it to your vet for a check up. While you're there, you can make sure your dog is up to date with its vaccinations and have its blood tested to check its health. Also, consider if it's mentally healthy, since travelling with a dog with dementia or anxiety will be challenging. If your dog shows sings of motion sickness, like uneasiness, yawning, whining, and vomiting, during car rides, reconsider travelling long distances with it. | Make an appointment with your vet. The first step in determining whether your dog is healthy enough to travel begins in your vet's office. Make an appointment with your vet and let them know the location, duration, and mode of travel. They will then be able to perform the necessary exams and tests to determine if your senior dog is healthy enough to travel. Consider chronic conditions. Senior dogs are more likely to suffer from chronic conditions that might affect their ability to travel healthfully. Talk to your vet about your senior dog's chronic condition and whether or not it is safe for your pet to travel. Common chronic conditions in older dogs that can complicate travel include, but are not limited to: Arthritis Heart disease Obesity Think about your senior dog’s mental health. Aging dogs often experience canine cognitive dysfunction, sometimes referred to as dog dementia. Traveling with a dog who is experiencing cognitive dysfunction should be carefully considered with the help of your veterinarian. Symptoms of canine cognitive dysfunction include: Wandering aimlessly Urinating indoors Defecating indoors Extreme agitation Anxiety Determine if your senior dog suffers from motion sickness. While motion sickness is a condition that more typically affects younger dogs, it can also impact senior dogs. Traveling with a senior dog who suffers from motion sickness can be challenging. If your senior dog displays these symptoms of motion sickness on local or long distance car rides, you should reconsider traveling long distances via ground or air with him. Signs of motion sickness in dogs include: Inactivity Uneasiness Yawning Whining Vomiting Excessive drooling Licking or smacking of the lips Monitor your senior dog for signs of illness. Before deciding to travel with your aging canine friend, you should monitor him for common signs of illness. These can be signs of serious medical conditions and are an indicator that your senior dog may not be healthy enough to travel. Seek medical attention if your pet is exhibits symptoms such as: Vomiting Diarrhea Lack of appetite Decreased activity Blood in the stool Urinating less or more frequently than normal Coughing Hair loss Itchy skin Difficulty rising Stiffness while walking Obtain a certificate of health from your veterinarian. If you are flying with your senior dog, you will likely need to provide proof of his health. For domestic air travel within the United States, you will need to obtain a health certificate that is dated within ten days of your departure. For travel to or within other countries, consult that country's foreign office for information on health requirements. Make sure your senior dog is up to date on his vaccinations. This is important regardless of whether you are traveling domestically or internationally. Countries, states, and municipalities all have distinct vaccination requirements, so be sure your senior dog has had the appropriate vaccinations for his time at and away from home. Ask your vet to perform blood tests. Many countries require blood tests for all dogs, including senior dogs, who enter the country. Inform your vet of your travel destination and then ask them to conduct blood tests required for your particular destination. These tests will help you and your vet determine if your senior dog can travel healthfully. Consider a microchip. If you decide your senior dog is healthy enough to travel, you may want to consider having a microchip implanted in your dog. A microchip will help you identify your dog's location should be become lost during travel. Some countries require you microchip your dog if traveling from a different country. | Make an appointment with your vet. Consider chronic conditions. Think about your senior dog’s mental health. Determine if your senior dog suffers from motion sickness. Monitor your senior dog for signs of illness. Obtain a certificate of health from your veterinarian. Make sure your senior dog is up to date on his vaccinations. Ask your vet to perform blood tests. Consider a microchip. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Train-a-Horse-to-Drive | How to Train a Horse to Drive | To train a horse to drive, start by practicing verbal cues, like coming to a halt, walking, trotting, slowing down, and going backward. Then, practice the same cues while your horse is long-lining. Once your horse responds to all of the cues while long-lining, practice doing them while ground driving. From there, train your horse to ground drive in a harness and then while it's dragging objects with the harness on. Finally, train your horse with a driving cart attached to the harness. | Train your horse to lunge in a round pen. Fit your horse with a lunge cavesson and a 25–30 ft (7.6–9.1 m) lunge line. Stand in the middle of the pen, position your body in the direction that you want your horse to move, and lift the lunge whip towards your horse's hip. As your horse moves forward, say “Walk,” loudly and clearly. Face your horse as it moves around the circle, keeping your body just behind the withers and the lunge whip at the hip. Position yourself so that you form a triangle between the horse's haunches, its shoulder, and yourself. You will use your body position to help drive the horse forward. You moving with your horse tells it to keep moving forward. To slow down or stop, relax your body, move with your horse more slowly, and lower the whip. Say “Stop!” or “Whoa!” clearly. To start trotting, raise your shoulders slightly, move more energetically, and slightly elevate the lunge whip at your horse's hip. Give a clear, verbal “Trot!” command. A lunging whip is only a training tool and should never be used as punishment. Practice lunging until your horse responds to every verbal cue. Spend the coming weeks and months working with your horse to get correct and consistent responses. Ensure that your horse can walk on, trot, slow down, and come to a full halt using verbal cues. Although each command is important, getting your horse to come to a full stop regardless of the situation is the highest priority. Train with a long line to get your horse used to 2 lines. To move clockwise, feed the left line through the left stirrup so that it wraps gently around your horse's rear, and hold this in your left hand. Hold the right line in your right hand. Start lunging your horse normally with the lunge whip and practice each gait. To prepare your horse for long lining, tack up the saddle and bridle. Connect the stirrups together under your horse's belly using a leather strap to stop them moving around. Attach 1 long line to each bit ring. To move counterclockwise, feed the right line through the right stirrup and hold this in your right hand. Then hold the left line in your left hand and lunge from the other direction. Keep the lines tight enough so your horse can't trip, but loose enough that it can feel the slack lines around its rear, tail, back, and legs. Practice long lining until every verbal command gets a correct response. Spend as much time as your horse needs to train with the long lines. Check that your horse is fully comfortable with the feeling of the lines and that every walk on, trot, slow down, and full halt command gets the right response. Work your horse from behind on long lines to start ground driving. Tack up your horse with its saddle, bridle, and long lines. Stand almost behind your horse but slightly towards the center of the pen. Keep consistent, gentle pressure on both lines and use verbal cues to ask your horse to walk on and halt. Move around the pen with your horse. Try to stay out of kicking range while ground driving. Put on a pair of driving gloves to protect your hands from rope burns in case the horse panics and starts running. Release the tension slightly in the outside line to practice turning. To turn right, loosen the left line and keep the pressure in the right line the same. Turning left is very similar. Simply loosen the right line and maintain the same tension on the left, inside line. You don't need to use verbal cues for turning, as the line pressure will do the communicating. Use the whip if your horse doesn’t respond to the first command. Responding to every cue is essential for driving. Lightly touch your horse's hip with the lunging whip if it doesn't move on from your command. If you consistently have troubles with getting a response when ground driving, go back to long lining again to build more confidence and trust with your horse. The more practice you and your horse get ground driving, the more prepared you will be for actual driving. Spend as much time training as you need and try not to rush anything. Get a driving harness professionally fitted to your horse. Choose a leather or synthetic driving harness. Arrange for a professional to measure your horse to find the right size. Let your horse inspect and sniff the driving harness before you put it on to build confidence. A driving instructor or your local driving club will be able to help you with harness fitting. Move the harness around near your horse to get it used to the sounds and smell of the harness. Start by walking your horse on a lead line while it wears the harness. Before you try lunges, you'll need to get your horse used to wearing the harness. Put the harness on your horse and take it for a brief walk, no more than 10-15 minutes. Use a short lead so that you can take control if your horse begins to panic while wearing the new harness. Practice lunging in the harness. Place the driving harness on your horse and begin lunging as you normally would. Work slowly so that your horse has time to adjust to the new feeling of the harness on its back. Practice each verbal cue until you get a consistent response and use plenty of affection and praise. If your horse has trouble lunging in the harness, remove it and practice normal lunging to build trust. Then give your horse plenty of time to inspect the harness before trying again. Work your horse with long lines and the harness. Tack up your horse with the driving harness and follow your normal long lining routine. Practice each verbal cue, moving slowly and steadily. This stage may take a little longer than expected, as your horse will need to get comfortable with the weight of the harness in addition to the slack lines. Start ground driving with the harness. Long line your horse from behind with the harness on and practice every verbal command. Train in both directions. Take your time and don't rush the training, so that you and your horse can build confidence and trust. This is as close as you can get to real driving without using a cart! If your horse loses confidence or has trouble at any time, simply return to a previous stage like lunging or long lining to get more practice. Train your horse to drag objects while ground driving in the harness. Learning to pull weight is an essential part of driving. Attach heavy cotton ropes to the harness and let these drag behind your horse as you ground drive. When your horse is comfortable, practice with heavier weights by tying the ropes around PVC pipes and then a tire. Practice every gait, verbal command, and direction while ground driving with the added weight. The PVC pipes and tire will bounce around. This is ideal because it helps to desensitize your horse to the noise, weight, and movement of a cart. Get professional advice before you start driving your horse. Contact a driving instructor or your local driving club. They will visit you and your horse and watch you work with the harness. Take any advice that they give on-board and don't begin driving with a cart until you have been given the all-clear. Don't feel discouraged if the driving professional suggests that you repeat some training. Safety is essential while driving, and the instructor just wants to make sure that you and your horse are fully prepared. Attach the driving cart to your horse once you are both confident. Place the cart in the middle of the pen and let your horse inspect it for as long as necessary. Show your horse any noises that the cart makes before you attach it. When your horse is fully comfortable, place the harness on and attach the cart shafts to the harness. Walk alongside your horse and get 2 other people to help pull the cart as your horse moves so that it can get used to the new feeling. If your horse loses confidence at any point, remove the cart immediately. Return to an earlier stage of training to build trust again before slowly reintroducing the cart. Never remove the bridle of a horse that is attached to a cart. This is because there would be no way to control the horse if an accident happened. Never leave a horse unattended while it's attached to a cart. Accidents can happen very quickly and with little to no warning. Enter the cart and slowly begin driving. Begin in a safe, quiet, and secure location. Communicate with the driving lines and verbal cues like you would while ground driving. Start with simply walking on and halting, before moving on to turning and trotting. Practice slowly and steadily so that you and your horse gain confidence and trust. Join your local driving club to gain more experience, learn new skills, and attend driving outings when your horse is ready. Whenever you are in the cart, always wear a riding helmet. This goes for passengers too. When you first begin driving in more risky situations like on roads, at shows, or with other horses, always have someone experienced with you. They can provide advice and assistance if anything unexpected happens. | Train your horse to lunge in a round pen. Practice lunging until your horse responds to every verbal cue. Train with a long line to get your horse used to 2 lines. Practice long lining until every verbal command gets a correct response. Work your horse from behind on long lines to start ground driving. Release the tension slightly in the outside line to practice turning. Use the whip if your horse doesn’t respond to the first command. Get a driving harness professionally fitted to your horse. Start by walking your horse on a lead line while it wears the harness. Practice lunging in the harness. Work your horse with long lines and the harness. Start ground driving with the harness. Train your horse to drag objects while ground driving in the harness. Get professional advice before you start driving your horse. Attach the driving cart to your horse once you are both confident. Enter the cart and slowly begin driving. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Go-Through-U.S.-Customs | How to Go Through U.S. Customs | Before you go through Customs in the U.S., fill out a declaration form with your personal and travel information, including any declared items. Walk into the correct line in passport control, which will be labeled either for U.S. or foreign citizens, and present your passport and declaration form. Then, answer any questions that the agent has for you, which might involve the nature of your trip and where you're staying. If you're visiting the U.S., have your picture and fingerprints taken before heading to baggage claim. | Pack your passport and carry it with you. A valid passport is essential for gaining entry to the U.S. Even U.S. residents need it. You will have to refer to it to fill out the customs form, so have it accessible. Avoid placing it in checked luggage. Don't try getting through customs without your passport. CBP won't let you into the country. If you lose your passport while traveling, go to the nearest embassy or consulate as soon as possible. They can help you get a new one. Get a customs form from staff on the plane or boat. Before you disembark, the stewards and stewardesses will begin handing out the forms. Both U.S. and foreign citizens are required to fill out this document, so make sure you get one. You only have to fill out 1 form per family. The form is a small, rectangular card, usually colored blue. The words “customs declaration” will be printed at the top. If you don't get one, ask the flight staff about it. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) now has Automated Passport Control (APC) booths at many major airports. U.S., Canadian, and international travelers with a visa waiver can use the booths without having to fill out a customs form. Fill the form out with your basic personal and travel information. Write your information into the space on the form legibly with a dark pen. You will need to provide information like your name, country of residence, passport number, flight number, and countries you visited. Refer to your passport and travel ticket to help you complete the form. Make sure the information you provide is accurate. Any mistakes could slow down the customs process. Customs forms are only required for travelers arriving by boat and plane. If you travel by land, border patrol officers will still check your bags and ask you a few questions. Estimate the value of all the items you need to declare. The form will ask you a few yes or no questions about what items you're transporting. Customs officials need to know if you're bringing in fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, large quantities of money, or have been near livestock. The form will also instruct you to total up the commercial value of all merchandise you bought or plan on leaving in the U.S. If you're a U.S. citizen, estimate the total value of goods you purchased while abroad. This includes gifts you didn't mail separately. You do not need to include anything you finished using before you boarded the plane. For visitors, calculate the total commercial value of all items you plan on leaving in the U.S. You do not need to include your personal belongings you plan on taking home with you. Write a list of declared items on the back of the form. Items you need to declare are anything covered by the commercial value calculation on the form. This can include gifts, purchases, duty-free items, merchandise to sell, items you inherited, and items you had repaired. Also list money, including cash, traveler's checks, gold coins, money orders, and so on. Be as accurate as possible to ensure your trip through CBP checkpoints are as smooth and speedy as possible. Declaration lists are used for tax purposes as well as security, so CBP needs to know exactly what you're bringing into the country. Walk to the passport control line for U.S. or foreign citizens. When you get off the plane, you will typically need to walk down a short hallway to reach the first checkpoint. Signs along the walls or ceiling will direct you where to go. At the checkpoint area, separate into the correct line. If you need help, ask an officer. Try not to loiter in the checkpoint area. Sometimes, you may see a third lane for passengers going to connecting flights. Use this opportunity to expedite the customs process if you have another flight to catch. Give your passport and customs form to the officer. The officer will look over your passport, then scan it to verify its authenticity. They will also validate the customs form and return it to you. It's a very quick and easy process, but make sure you get both of your documents back before you leave. For international travelers, CBP may print out an I-94 form and staple it to your passport. Keep this form with you, as you will need it when you depart the U.S. Answer any questions about your trip the agent asks you. You don't have to go into extensive detail about your trip, but try to be as accurate with your answers as possible. The agent will request a general reason for your trip. If you're a visitor, they will also ask how long you plan on visiting and where you plan on staying. They may also request more information, such as in regards to your planned activities or occupation. For example, if the officer asks you about the nature of your trip, simply say something like “I was on vacation” or “I'm visiting relatives.” The CBP officials are only trying to do their job, which is screening travelers for the country's safety. Be respectful to them and they likely will return the favor. If you are a visitor, bringing along documentation can help. For instance, bring along communications from a business, university, or host that prove your reason for traveling. Provide your fingerprints and photograph if you are a visitor. CBP takes this information from all visitors for their biometric database. The agent will slide a small pad towards you. Put your fingers on the electronic pad to upload your fingerprints. Then, stand by as they take your picture. Even if you submitted a photo for your visa application, you still need to go through this process. The CBP agent will guide you through the steps. Move to the baggage claim area to retrieve your luggage. Continue walking down the hallway, reading the signs as needed to get to the nearby baggage claim carousels. You need to claim your baggage even if you are going to board a connecting flight. Check the screen in the baggage area to find the carousel number assigned to your flight, then wait for your bags to appear. By rule you have to claim your bags and check them back in later if you need to board another flight. Give yourself plenty of time to get through security. If you're traveling by boat or bus, you still need to claim your bags. For bus trips, the staff needs to move your bags back onto the vehicle after CBP is done checking them. Take your bags to the correct line in customs. Walk down the hallway from the baggage area to the customs security checkpoint. In the customs area, you will see a lane labeled “nothing to declare” with a green arrow. The other line, marked with a red arrow, is for travelers with “goods to declare.” Choose the correct line to get through customs without a hitch. If you try to sneak through the faster line, security may stop you. Refer back to your customs form to know what you need to declare. Hand the officer your customs form. After a short wait, you will reach the next checkpoint. Make sure your form is filled out correctly before you get to the CBP officer. They will ask you a few basic questions, such as where you went and what you purchased on your trip. They look for items on the restricted list, contraband, or anything left off the customs form. Be as specific and as prompt as possible when answering. That way, you can get through this checkpoint as quickly as possible. Slow or vague answers make the officers curious and ask more questions. Listen to the officers if you are chosen for a random search. The CBP officers may pick you out of the line for a more thorough inspection. This is rarely personal. The officers can search your bags by hand or with an X-ray machine. They may also ask you more questions about your trip. Giving the agents a hard time will make your day worse. Turn your bags over to them graciously. Remember, they are doing their jobs, not trying to give you a hard time. Continue your trip or leave the facility. After the CBP agent waives you through the checkpoint, walk down the hall to end up in the facility lobby. If you're at your final destination, you're free to go. If you need to board another flight at an airport, find the sign that says “connecting flights” or “connecting baggage drop-off.” Place your bag on the nearby conveyor belt to send it on its way. Before checking your luggage, make sure tags match your next destination. After putting your luggage on the conveyor belt, you need to pass through a nearby security checkpoint to enter the flight hub. Be sure to place any liquids, gels, and aerosols over 3 oz (85 g) in your checked luggage, along with any other items restricted by the TSA. | Pack your passport and carry it with you. Get a customs form from staff on the plane or boat. Fill the form out with your basic personal and travel information. Estimate the value of all the items you need to declare. Write a list of declared items on the back of the form. Walk to the passport control line for U.S. Give your passport and customs form to the officer. Answer any questions about your trip the agent asks you. Provide your fingerprints and photograph if you are a visitor. Move to the baggage claim area to retrieve your luggage. Take your bags to the correct line in customs. Hand the officer your customs form. Listen to the officers if you are chosen for a random search. Continue your trip or leave the facility. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Test-Soil-pH | How to Test Soil pH | To test your soil's pH, first, go online or to your local garden center and buy pH test strips, which are also called litmus paper. Then, take a handful of the soil you want to test and mix it with just enough distilled water to give it the consistency of a milkshake. Next, put the test strip into the dirt mixture and hold it there for 20-30 seconds. Remove it from the dirt and dip it quickly into distilled water to clean it off. Finally, you can determine your soil's pH by comparing the strip's coloration to the color-coded key that came with the test strips. | Dig a small hole in the soil. Use a trowel or spade to dig a hole 2–4 inches (5.1–10.2 cm) deep. Break up the soil within the hole and remove any twigs or foreign debris. Fill the hole with water. Use distilled (not spring) water. You can find this in your local pharmacy. Rainwater is slightly acidic, and bottled or tap water tends to be slightly alkaline. Fill the hole until you have a muddy pool at the bottom. Insert the test probe into the mud. Make sure your tester is clean and calibrated (for a more exact measurement). Wipe the probe with a tissue or clean cloth, and insert it into the mud. Hold it there for 60 seconds and take a reading. pH is usually measured on a scale of 1-14, though the tester may not include this entire range. A pH of 7 indicates neutral soil. A pH above 7 indicates alkaline soil. A pH below 7 indicates acidic soil. Take several measurements in different spots in the garden. A single reading may be an anomaly, so it's good to get an idea of the average pH in a plot. If they're all around the same, take the average and amend the soil accordingly. If one spot is very different than the rest, however, you may need to "spot treat" it. Purchase pH test strips. Test strips, also known as litmus paper, are a quick and easy way to measure the pH of your soil. You can purchase them online or at your local garden store. Mix a handful of soil with room-temperature distilled water. Take a handful of the soil you'd like to test and put it in a bowl. Then, pour some distilled water into the bowl until the dirt is the consistency of a milkshake. You can give the mixture a stir to ensure the water is fully incorporated. Dip a pH test strip in the mixture for 20-30 seconds. Holding your pH test strip at the non-reading end, dip the strip into the dirt mixture for 20-30 seconds. This test time can vary, so consult the directions on your specific test strips to determine the proper dipping time. When the test time is up, lift the pH strip from the water, and dip it briefly in distilled water to clean off the dirt. Compare your pH strip to the test kit's key. Use the key included in your pH test kit to read the pH of your soil. Normally this key is color-coded. Compare your strip to the colors available, and select the one that most resembles your result. The key will equate this color with the pH number of your soil. Make your soil less acidic. If your soil pH tested below 7, add a cup of dolomite or quick lime to the soil. Mix well, then retest with your probe. Use this method to slowly change the pH of your soil. Wood ash in moderation helps as well. Both are available at local gardening centers. Follow the advice in your commercial test probe kit to determine how much of these substances you will need to add to achieve the desired pH. If you need to change your soil pH level more than one full point, contact a local gardening professional. They can help you calibrate your soil so it can be amended most successfully. Make your soil less alkaline. If your soil pH tested above 7, add a cup of organic matter, such as pine needles, peat moss, or decomposed tree leaves. Then, retest the soil to gauge the new pH. Add additional cups, testing as necessary, until you reach the desired level. Sulfur is very effective as well. Use the instructions in your commercial test probe kit to determine how much of these additives you will need to add to achieve your desired pH. If your soil needs to be adjusted more than a full pH point, contact a local gardening or landscaping professional. They can help you calibrate your soil to the right level through an on-site evaluation. Change your soil pH to suit specific plants. For example, add sulfur to a certain area of your garden to encourage beautiful blue blooms on your hydrangeas, which prefer more acidic soils. The pH of your soil does not need to be uniform your entire garden over; feel free to alter it to support different plants. You can consult the Old Farmer's Almanac to determine the best pH for your particular garden. Some plants prefer a pH of 7 while some fruits favor a lower pH. | Dig a small hole in the soil. Fill the hole with water. Insert the test probe into the mud. Hold it there for 60 seconds and take a reading. Take several measurements in different spots in the garden. Purchase pH test strips. Mix a handful of soil with room-temperature distilled water. Dip a pH test strip in the mixture for 20-30 seconds. Compare your pH strip to the test kit's key. Make your soil less acidic. Make your soil less alkaline. Change your soil pH to suit specific plants. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Tulpa | How to Create a Tulpa | Tulpas are independent imaginary people that occupy your brain, similar to imaginary friends, and with enough work, you can create your own. To begin creating your tulpa, close your eyes and begin to visualize how they look. Tulpas tend to look like people, but it is possible to make your tulpa look any way you want. Try to picture their appearance from every angle and smaller details such as their face and hair. Then, try to touch your tulpa as you imagine them. See what their hair and clothes feel like. Also, try to visualize how your tulpa moves. Imagine them walking, using different expressions, and making gestures. This will all help to build your tulpa into a full being. | Think long and hard before you create a tulpa. Your tulpa will be a life-long companion and will be with you for the rest of your life, spend some time thinking about it because if you change your mind after creating a tulpa, you could get rid of them but tulpas are people with their own personality and thoughts. Getting rid of a tulpa is killing them and that means would mean you're killing a person. Making a tulpa is no easy decision. Plan out your tulpa. You can start by thinking about the form or personality you want them to have. You don't have to choose a permanent form or personality for them, as it is very likely that they will deviate from what you originally planned. Plan your tulpa's appearance. You can plan out your tulpa's appearance by drawing if it helps, or just by visualizing them. You should not create a tulpa based on any real humans, living or dead. If you create a tulpa based off a fictional character, make sure to let your tulpa know that they are not that character, they just have their appearance. Plan your tulpa's personality. One way to think of a personality is simply list as many personality traits you want your tulpa to have. When you've thought about a form you can either read these traits to the tulpa, or meditate on them for a while, few minutes on each, to "install" them into your tulpa. Some people tend to skip the personality step, and that is fine, your tulpa will just develop their personality themselves. This can also deviate. But no worries, it is unlikely that their personality will deviate into something harmful. Visualize your tulpa. Sit down and close your eyes. Imagine your tulpa in your head; look at them from any possible angle you can think of. Try to visualize every detail of their appearance. Be patient, and take time visualizing them, and remember that some part can be very difficult such as a face. Also remember, you can do this any way you want, whatever suits you best. When you visualize, you could either just visualize your tulpa in an empty space, an imaginary place, or just the space in front of you. Try to touch your tulpa in your imagination. Try to feel their hair (if they have any) and the details on their body. When that step is complete, you will be able to feel your tulpa's form or surface by applying a little pressure, but you won't be able to touch them as if they were a solid, physical thing. Your hand will go through. Create a scent, if you wish. If you want to, you can associate a scent with your tulpa a during this step. Make sure the same scent remains whenever you smell your tulpa. Visualize your tulpa's movements. Imagine how your tulpa moves and walks. Think about the gestures they use. Work on their expressions last. Try to imagine a conversation with them, and think about what their reactions would be. Always remember, each of these steps take time, never rush it. Wonderlands. If you want, you can create a place in your imagination, called a wonderland. This is a place where you can work on your tulpa, and this will be the place that your tulpa can live in. You can be there too, just imagine yourself there with your tulpa. You can do anything you like there, it's your own world. It can be very helpful because if you are in a busy place like in a crowd of people, or doing something like cycling somewhere, it can be difficult to visualize your tulpa anywhere, so they can rest in the wonderland until you are able to visualize them again. Let your tulpa edit the wonderland. They can change it and anything with it whenever they want, just as you can. Talk to your tulpa. You can talk to them inside your mind or out loud. The subject doesn't matter at all. You can talk to them about weather, your day at work/school, your friends, a TV show you like... As long as you direct your talking to the tulpa, you'll do fine. The process is gradual and first contact from your tulpa can be difficult to discern; they won't necessarily jump into speaking full sentences right away. This is completely optional, but you could use a method like 'parroting' or 'puppeting' though some people can find this controversial. But, many others believe that this can help a developing tulpa and encourage them to try to communicate. Sometimes if you are not sure if the answer you got was you parroting or your tulpa, always assume it was your tulpa. This step can take a while. Be patient. After your tulpa talks, you can choose a voice for them if they haven't created one themselves. You can create a completely new voice in your head, but it may be easier to pick a voice you know well enough to imagine it saying anything. Determine whether your tulpa is sentient. Close your eyes and tell your tulpa you're opening your mind to them. Imagine them walking through a door that leads into your subconsciousness. Your tulpa can now see your memories, how you feel and everything about you as a person. Don't do this right away, but wait until there's trust between you, so that your tulpa won't take this for granted. Signs of sentience: Tulpa talks back to you with full sentences and has their own opinions. They may communicate with you in other ways as well, such as through emotions. Tulpa does things you didn't expect them to do. Go for a walk and imagine your tulpa following behind you. Do this until it starts to feel natural. Make sure you remember the way they walk. In time you will learn to feel your tulpa's presence, even though you can't really see them. You can still feel where they are and what they're doing, and see them with your mind's eye. Connect with others who have tulpas. Read stories of the forum hosts and their tulpae. Learn more about creating and living with tulpae. There are many different guides and forums on the internet, some which contains FAQ's and Q&A's on tulpae, which you can find very useful if you have any concerns or questions. | Think long and hard before you create a tulpa. Plan out your tulpa. Plan your tulpa's appearance. Plan your tulpa's personality. Visualize your tulpa. Try to touch your tulpa in your imagination. Create a scent, if you wish. Visualize your tulpa's movements. Wonderlands. Talk to your tulpa. After your tulpa talks, you can choose a voice for them if they haven't created one themselves. Determine whether your tulpa is sentient. Go for a walk and imagine your tulpa following behind you. Connect with others who have tulpas. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Highlighter-Stick | How to Use a Highlighter Stick | Before you use a highlighter stick, apply your foundation and concealer, and lightly contour under your cheekbones with a darker shade. Then, place the highlighter stick at the bottom of your cheekbone, close to your nose and just above the contour you made. Press down gently as you sweep the highlighter stick up to your hairline, and do the same on your other cheek. Next, use your fingertips to blend the highlighter into your skin, creating a soft, natural look. Finally, mist a little makeup setting spray over your face to lock in your look. | Choose an ivory or cream highlighter shade if you have fair skin. If you have a pale complexion, cream and ivory highlighters with a pearlescent or icy-silver tinge work really well. While these shades tend to look ghostly and unnatural on other complexions, they add a natural-looking glow to fair skin. Look for highlighter shades that include words like “moonbeam,” “ice,” and “crystalline.” Avoid shades that are darker than cream and ivory. They can look unnatural on fair skin. Use a peach or gold highlighter shade for medium skin tones. Cream and ivory highlighter shades can look too frosty on medium tanned skin. Peachy and golden highlighters create a sun-kissed glow that works well with your natural complexion. Nude shades also work well. Look for highlighter shades that include words like “sunbeam,” “golden,” and “bronze.” Go with rose gold or bronze shades if you have a dark complexion. Stay away from frosty shades, since these can give darker complexions a grayish look. Highly pigmented highlighter shades in bronze, rose gold, and gold will give you the subtle, healthy glow you want. Look for highlighter shades that include words like “sunset,” “rose,” and “copper.” Opt for shades with a blue or purple tinge if you have cool undertones. If the veins on the underside of your wrists look blue or purple, you have a cool skin tone. Look for highlighters that have pearly flecks that are bluish, purple, or cool pink. These highlighters often have names that include words like “lavender,” “ice blue,” and “strobe.” Choose shades with champagne or gold if you have warm undertones. If the veins on the underside of your wrists appear green, you have a warm skin tone. Highlighters with warm, pearlescent flecks of champagne and gold will look best on you. These highlighters tend to have names containing words like “moonstone,” “glow,” or “champagne.” Stay away from the blues and lavenders, which can look unnatural on people with warm undertones. Experiment with different highlighters if you have neutral undertones. If you can't tell if the veins on the undersides of your wrists are green or blue, you probably have a neutral skin tone. That means both cooler, icy shades and warm, golden shades will be flattering on you. Experiment with a range of highlighters and pick your favorite! Try shades with both warm and cool tones, like rose gold. Apply your favorite foundation and concealer. Highlighter sticks should be applied near the end of your makeup routine. Go ahead and apply your usual foundation and concealer as you normally would. Dust your face lightly with translucent powder to set the makeup. You can also use highlighter sticks without makeup for a subtle, natural sheen. Contour with a darker shade under your cheekbones. Lightly contouring your cheekbones will make your highlighter pop. If you like to contour, feel free to go beyond just the cheekbones and contour your nose, jaw, and chin, as well. If contouring isn't your thing, just apply foundation or powder that's 2 shades darker than your skin tone to the hollows of your cheek bones. Blend out gently at the hairline to get rid of any harsh lines. If you prefer, you can skip contouring and just apply highlights. This effect is called “strobing.” Swipe the highlighter stick lightly across both cheek bones. Place the stick at the bottom of your cheek bone, close to your nose, right above the dark contour line you just created. Press down lightly and sweep the highlighter stick up to the hairline 1 time. Do this for both cheeks. Try applying blush to the apples of your cheeks, then start your highlight where the blush stops. Highlighter sticks are creamy formulas that have a lot of staying power. Use a light hand – you can always apply more! Highlighting the cheek bones brightens your face and provides a sun-kissed glow. Swipe the highlighter stick down the bridge of your nose. Start at the top of your nose, close to your eyebrows. Place the stick lightly against the bridge of your nose and sweep it down to the tip of your nose. You only need to do a single swipe. Applying highlighter here creates a natural-looking glow and can make your nose look slimmer. Add highlighter above and below the arch of your eyebrows. Place the highlighter stick right beneath your eyebrow in the center, lined up evenly with your iris. Press down gently and make 1 swipe along your brow bone, underneath the eyebrow. Stop at the tail end of your eyebrow. Move the stick to the same starting position right above your eyebrow and swipe again. Do this for both eyes. You'll make 2 swipes for each eyebrow – 1 below the eyebrow and 1 above it. Highlighting these areas brightens your face and gives you a youthful glow. Dab the highlighter stick just above your top lip. The little “V” that your top lip creates in the center, just below your nose, is called your Cupid's bow. Place the highlighter stick there and make 1 light dab to illuminate the area. This will brighten up your face and accentuate your top lip. This can also create the illusion of a fuller upper lip. Dab the highlighter stick once in the corner of each eye. Close your left eye, then lightly dab the highlighter stick in the corner. You only need to dab once! Repeat the same thing with your right eye. Using your highlighter stick in the corners of your eyes can brighten up your face and make you look more alert. You can dab once at the center of each eyelid if you want to brighten up your eyes even more. Dab the highlighter stick once in the center of your chin. Place the highlighter stick right below your lower lip at the center of your chin. Press down lightly and dab the stick once. This will accentuate your lower lip and add to your overall dewy glow. This can also create the illusion of a fuller lower lip. Add highlighter above the jawline to soften a strong jaw. Swipe the highlighter stick along your jaw, a little above the natural jawline. Stop just before you reach your chin. Blend the highlighter in for a slimming, softening effect. Highlight the center of your forehead to elongate your face. If you have a round or square face, highlighter in the middle of your forehead can add length and minimize width. Dab the highlighter stick to create a circular shape in the center of your forehead. Blend just the edges of each highlighted area for a strobing effect. “Strobing” is essentially just amped up highlighting. It creates a bolder look and can be fun to wear on a night out. Use a makeup sponge or your fingertips to gently fade the edges of each line or dab you made with the highlighter stick. Keep in mind that strobing isn't as natural-looking as traditional highlighting. Blend additionally to create a more natural-looking sheen. If you want to create a softer, dewy look, use a makeup sponge or your fingertips to blend each highlighted area into your skin. Blend gently by rubbing in soft circles until you're happy with amount of highlighter on your face. This will get rid of any hard lines. Use a makeup setting spray all over your face to lock in the look. To keep your makeup in place all day, close your eyes and gently mist a makeup setting spray all over your face. Keep your eyes closed for a few seconds to let the spray penetrate. Don't set your final look with translucent powder, since this will diminish your highlighter and take away from your glow. Carry your highlighter stick in your bag for touch-ups. One of the great things about highlighter sticks is that they're super portable and easy to use. A quick midday swipe over your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose can rejuvenate your faded glow. Blend gently with your fingertips and you're all set! | Choose an ivory or cream highlighter shade if you have fair skin. Use a peach or gold highlighter shade for medium skin tones. Go with rose gold or bronze shades if you have a dark complexion. Opt for shades with a blue or purple tinge if you have cool undertones. Choose shades with champagne or gold if you have warm undertones. Experiment with different highlighters if you have neutral undertones. Apply your favorite foundation and concealer. Contour with a darker shade under your cheekbones. Swipe the highlighter stick lightly across both cheek bones. Swipe the highlighter stick down the bridge of your nose. Add highlighter above and below the arch of your eyebrows. Dab the highlighter stick just above your top lip. Dab the highlighter stick once in the corner of each eye. Dab the highlighter stick once in the center of your chin. Add highlighter above the jawline to soften a strong jaw. Highlight the center of your forehead to elongate your face. Blend just the edges of each highlighted area for a strobing effect. Blend additionally to create a more natural-looking sheen. Use a makeup setting spray all over your face to lock in the look. Carry your highlighter stick in your bag for touch-ups. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Access-Criminal-Court-Records | How to Access Criminal Court Records | To access criminal court records, look for the record on the court database for the state or county where the offense occurred. When searching the database, try to have the offender's full name, a business name if applicable, and a case number. If the court you're dealing with doesn't have an online database yet, you can search the court archives at the courthouse or fill out paperwork to have the clerk's office do the work for you. | Look in the right place. Your first impulse might be to look for a criminal record wherever the person you're researching lives. That's a good starting point, but courts file their records where the offense occurred. If you know where a specific crime took place, look for the record in that state or county. Many states don't allow you to access juvenile records if they're sealed. Look for a criminal court records database on your state or county court’s website. While courts have begun going digital, the digital database may only include court records for recent cases. It will depend entirely on the county or state where you are conducting your research. Many courts have converted their paper records to digital, online records. Search your court's website for a database of criminal court records to find out if you can access a digital record. Be aware of the different levels of state courts. A given state might separate their courts into tax courts, superior courts, appellate courts, supreme courts, and so on. You may have search the database specific to the record you're looking for. However, most states combine these records into a single searchable database online. Provide the information you need to find your record. Criminal record databases can be quite large, so have as much information as possible to find the record you need: The offender's full name. You may know the person by a nickname or by his middle name, but the courts know him by his full legal name. Even then, there may be several "John Smith"s in the database, so have more information if possible. A business name if a business was involved. Case number. This is the most reliable way to find a criminal record. View the record online. Once you locate a listing for the criminal record you want, click the link to see the record itself. Note that even if your state or county has digital records, they may still be in the middle of converting their files. The information in the database might be incomplete. If you don't see the record you're looking for, follow up by trying to find a hard copy. Search the court archives yourself. Visit the appropriate court (county, state, appellate, supreme, etc.) and ask an employee to show you to the court record archives. The archives might be organized by year, by case type, or by both. Ask the person who directs you to the archives how to find the record you need. You can view the record for free, but will need to pay a fee if you want to make copies. Depending on how much space they have, the court may have moved older records to a different location. If so, ask whether you should visit that location or submit a request for the clerk to have the file sent back to the court archives. Search the court’s website for information on requesting criminal records. If you don't want to search the archives yourself, you can fill out paperwork to have the clerk's office do the work for you. The process may vary from court to court, so read through the instructions carefully. While some courts will ask you to send your request through the mail, others might ask you to visit the clerk in person. Mail your request. The court's website might say that you must mail your records request to them. Copy the address carefully to ensure your request reaches the right office. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so they can mail the record back to you. Make sure it's big enough to hold the entire document! The website might ask you to download and print off a request form, or just to write a letter asking for a criminal record. Look first for a form, but if you're writing a letter, include the following information: The defendant's full, legal name His or her date of birth The specific documents you would like to see. For example: A trial docket (all the materials filed during a trial) The minutes for a specific court date The sentencing document Deliver your request in person. If the court doesn't allow mailed requests, visit the clerk's office in person. You can either fill out the request form there or deliver your request letter. Bring as much information as possible with you, so you don't have to come back for a second trip with more information. The benefit of submitting your request in person is that you can ask questions to the person helping you out. Don't be shy! If you have any questions, ask them before you leave the office. Pay the fee. Some courts are now allowing access to digital records, but these records are not free. You will most likely have to pay for downloads. The clerk's office will likely charge you for every page they have to copy for you. Estimate how many pages the record will be, and include that amount with the request. If you are mailing your request, search the website for a "fee schedule" that tells you how much it costs to print each page. If you are submitting your request in person, ask the person at the desk to help you figure out how much you owe. Some offices only ask you to cover the costs up to a certain amount. They might ask you to write "Not to exceed $10" or "Not to exceed $35" on the check you write. Wait to receive your records. If you provided a self-addressed, stamped envelope, the clerk's office will send you the records in the mail. If not, they will call you to let you know when you can pick the records up in person. Create an account with the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system. Through this website, you can search for and access federal court records 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Fill out the online registration form. Information with a red asterisk next to it is mandatory, but everything else is optional. You will need to provide the following information: Your first and last names Date of birth Home address, email address, and phone number Your “user type.” If you are directly involved in a case, mark “Plaintiff, Defendant or Debtor in a Case.” If you are a journalist, mark “Media,” and so on. Search PACER by court. If you know where the case you're looking for was tried, look for the specific court that houses the record. Limiting your search to a single court will make it much easier to find the record you're looking for. For example, you might search the records for the Middle District of Georgia or the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Search by case number or party name. If you don't know the specific court that houses the record, you have to search the entire database of federal courts. This database holds an enormous amount of records, so provide as much information as possible. If the person you're researching has a common name (Jane Smith), searching by case number might be easier and faster. Pay the fee. Though creating a PACER account is free, you do have to pay a small fee to view individual records. The fee is 10 cents per page of a document, up to $3.00. Even if the document is a thousand pages long, you won't have to pay more than the $3.00 max. Know whether you can obtain the records. Attorneys only share records with their clients. In fact, an attorney who didn't represent you likely cannot ethically give you records related to a case. This is true even if the records are part of the public record. However, you have the right to see all documents that your attorney prepared for your own case. Contact the right attorney. If you have more than one case in the works, you might be working with different defense attorneys or public defenders. Reach out to the attorney who is working on the specific case you're looking at. Be as specific as possible. Attorneys handle huge amounts of paperwork, and their records can be quite complicated. Tell your lawyer exactly which records you want to see. This will cut down the time the staff will have to spend looking for them. Pay any associated fees. Your attorney will likely charge you for time spent looking for the document either in criminal court records or their own files. They also have to gather and package the files for you. You may have to pay an hourly or flat fee to pay them for their work. Being as specific as possible will save you money if your attorney charges an hourly fee. Figure out which agency you need to contact. Run an online search with the keywords "[Your State"] and "criminal records" to find the right agency. The court record you need might be with the state police, the state courts, or another agency. Do not contact third party organizations. Be on the safe side and get your court records directly from the government. A non-official agency may not be as accurate, and also may charge a fee for a record that the state will provide either cheaper or for free. Make sure that you're looking at an official website by checking the end of the site's address. It should end in “.gov” instead of “.com.” Submit a records request for your own record. The process for record requests varies from agency to agency. Be sure to follow the official instructions on the correct agency's website. Some states will ask you to get your request notarized by a notary public. A notary public is a person who has the license to administer oaths and serve as a witness. Find a notary public in your area by searching online. You can usually find one at the bank, and often at UPS stores. Fill out a different form to request a record for someone else. Most agencies have different forms for people looking for their own records and those requesting someone else's. Check with the specific agency to make sure. Keep the following in mind when requesting records for someone else: You may not be able to access someone's entire criminal history. For example, Oregon's Open Records Unit only provides records for the past year. The agency might tell the person who committed the crime that someone requested his or her court record. Be aware of special considerations if you are an employer. Records requests are common for people hiring new employees. The Fair Credit Reporting Act regulates a person's consumer report, which includes criminal records. If employers want to hire someone to access these records they do so through a Consumer Credit Reporting Agency or a CRA. If you're an employer, you may need to register with the state agency before submitting a request. Know the rules about which types of convictions you're allowed to take into consideration. Many states allow consideration only for crimes related to the job in question. For example, an accounting firm can refuse to hire a convicted embezzler. However, embezzlement only has a connection to jobs in which the person would be handling money. Double-check the instructions before submitting the request. The instructions can get complicated, and the forms sometimes ask for a large amount of information. This might range from simple contact information and fees to notarizations and fingerprints. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row so your request isn't delayed or rejected. Pay the fee and submit your form. Again, the process for submission might vary from agency to agency, so follow the instructions carefully. Some states might ask you to send them in via postal mail. Others might let you fill out an online request form. You might even have to submit the request in person. Search the website for the fee amount. Include it with the form if you're mailing your request. Send it separately or pay online if you're submitting the request on a website. Bring a check or money order with you if you submit the form in person. | Look in the right place. Look for a criminal court records database on your state or county court’s website. Be aware of the different levels of state courts. Provide the information you need to find your record. View the record online. Search the court archives yourself. Search the court’s website for information on requesting criminal records. Mail your request. Deliver your request in person. Pay the fee. Wait to receive your records. Create an account with the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system. Search PACER by court. Search by case number or party name. Pay the fee. Know whether you can obtain the records. Contact the right attorney. Be as specific as possible. Pay any associated fees. Figure out which agency you need to contact. Do not contact third party organizations. Submit a records request for your own record. Fill out a different form to request a record for someone else. Be aware of special considerations if you are an employer. Double-check the instructions before submitting the request. Pay the fee and submit your form. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Pick-Up-Gay-Men | How to Pick Up Gay Men | Picking up a gay man can be intimidating, but if you play it cool, act confident, and be yourself, you've definitely got this! Approach guys who interest you with a simple “Hello” or a smile to get a conversation started. After you've introduced yourself to a guy, make small talk to get to know him a bit. When you've met someone you like, be honest and tell him that you're into him. If you're unsure whether he likes you, see if he makes eye contact, which is a sign he's into you. Once you feel confident he likes you, be direct and ask whether he wants to do something together, like dancing in a club or meeting for coffee. Don't forget to ask for his phone number so you can stay in touch. | Strike a pose. Before you go out, stand in front of the mirror and take a wide stance with your hands on your hips. Think Superman or Wonder Woman. Studies show that assuming what's known as a "power stance" can improve your confidence. These changes in posture can give you a mental "boost." Try the "victory" pose. Put your arms in a "V" over your head. Stretch out in your seat or cross your legs and put your hands behind your head. Hold these poses for about 2 minutes before going out to the bars (or doing anything stressful). Pay attention to how you look. This isn't to say that you can only attract a guy if you look good. Rather, this is about making yourself feel good. If you feel good, you'll have more confidence. Try dressing in clothes that you want to see yourself in. If you've always wanted to wear a suit, go out in a suit. The point is to wear something you associate with power and confidence. Think about other qualities you want to have when you're looking in the mirror, even if they're not physical qualities. For example, maybe you want to be more charismatic or funny. Once you identify things you want to improve, you can start practicing. Take the pressure off yourself. You're not trying to impress every guy at the bar, you're trying to find the guy that impresses you. Focus your attention on looking for the guys you want to approach. Practice your confidence. Gaining confidence will take time; don't expect it to happen overnight. But, the more you stick with it, the more likely it is that you'll become a confident person. Feeling confident is only part of the battle. You have to act with confidence as well. It's a common opinion that people find confidence attractive. Go to a place where you can meet gay men. While it is possible to meet gay men at any old bar, you'll have more luck if you go to a gay bar. Not every guy in the place will be gay, but the numbers are in your favor. Don't feel obligated to stick to gay bars. If you want to go to a bunch of different clubs in an evening, feel free to do so. The world is a more progressive place, but be careful. Some guys may not appreciate if you question their sexuality. Approach guys that interest you. You might have to approach a lot of men to get a response. If you want to meet guys, you have to put yourself out there. You don't have to approach a man every time you go out. Make sure you're in the mood to flirt and be flirted with. Don't hit on every single guy you find attractive. You'll come across as disingenuous, and it may hurt your chances of meeting someone. Skip the pick up lines. Start with a simple "hello," or even a smile. Using a pick up line is bound to get you ignored, or worse, laughed at. This doesn't mean cracking jokes or spouting off a witty one-liner is out of the question. Quite the contrary: if it's original and you're saying it honestly, go for it. Be friendly. Once you've approached your guy, just start talking. Try to let the conversation happen flow naturally and just keep it simple. Don't try too hard to seduce him. Don't play games. If you like the guy you're talking to, then let him know you're into him. Talk about shared experiences. If you're dancing at a club, talk about other places you like to go dancing. Invite him along. Keep the conversation fun and easy. While it's good to ask questions, don't interrogate him. Let the conversation happen naturally. Make sure he likes you. You don't have to come right out and ask him. Pay attention to his body language. If he's following your body with his, and maintaining eye contact, it's pretty clear he likes you. Prolonged conversation is another good sign. If he doesn't look distracted and isn't trying to find ways to get away from you, assume he's interested. Ask for his number. Be simple and direct. No need to dance around the topic or make a big deal about it. Ask him out for coffee, ask him to go dancing. Just make sure you keep talking once you have his number so you don't give him the wrong impression. Prepare yourself for the eventuality that some guys may say "no." Even if you had a nice conversation, they may not want to move things further. That's okay. Everyone encounters rejection. Don't let it scare you away. Follow up with him. You don't have to ask every guy you talk to for his number. But, if you've gone through the trouble of approaching a guy and you end up getting his number, follow up with him. Invite him out for that coffee, or let him know you'll be going out with your friends. He may want to join. It's possible that he won't respond to you. If he does, maybe you'll find that the two of you don't have much in common, or the attraction isn't there anymore. Either way, be respectful. | Strike a pose. Pay attention to how you look. Take the pressure off yourself. Practice your confidence. Go to a place where you can meet gay men. Approach guys that interest you. Skip the pick up lines. Be friendly. Talk about shared experiences. Make sure he likes you. Ask for his number. Follow up with him. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Diagnose-Hypothyroidism-in-Golden-Retrievers | How to Diagnose Hypothyroidism in Golden Retrievers | To diagnose hypothyroidism is golden retrievers, look for symptoms, like low energy and sensitivity to the cold. You may also notice your dog gaining weight as a result of its metabolism slowing down. Additionally, check your dog's coat for dullness, patchiness or a greasy look. You can also check to see if your dog's heart rate is beating at 60 beats per minute or lower, which may indicate it suffers from hypothyroidism. If you suspect your dog has hypothyroidism, take it to your vet right away, since the condition will get worse without proper treatment. | Be aware of how hypothyroidism develops in your golden retriever. Hypothyroidism is caused by a low amount of thyroid hormone in your dog's body. Your dog's thyroid glands sit on your dog's neck on either side of his windpipe. They produce the thyroid hormone, which helps to control your dog's metabolic rate. If your dog's thyroid glands are underactive, the thyroid will be attacked by your dog's immune system, leading to health issues. Golden retrievers are prone to hypothyroidism, and it most commonly occurs at 4-10 years of age. Other breeds such as Doberman, Old English sheepdog, miniature schnauzer, boxer, and Cavalier King Charles spaniel are also prone to hypothyroidism. Note if your dog has low energy. One of the major symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs is the dog starts to display a lack of energy and mental dullness. Your dog may choose sleeping beside a heater or a warm area of the house rather than going outside for a walk. He may also display mental dullness, where he is not as energized and playful as he once was and does not make much of an effort to move around or respond to your commands. Dogs with hypothyroidism are sensitive to cold so you should note if your dog moves from his normal sleeping spot to a spot that is warmer or close to a heat source. Some retrievers with hypothyroidism have been known to display a “tragic” facial expression where they always appear sad or in distress. Check if your dog starts to gain weight. Your dog may start to gain weight as a result of his low energy and mental dullness. He may also start to gain weight due to his thyroid issues, as he is burning calories less quickly and this can lead to a weight gain. You can determine if your dog has gained weight by weighing him on a scale. If you note any major weight gain (5-10 pounds) over a short period of time, this may be a sign of hypothyroidism. Look at your dog’s coat for any dullness or patchiness. Dogs with hypothyroidism usually develop a brittle and dull coat, with patches of fur or hair falling out. Your dog's coat may have a “rat's tail”, where hair falls from his tail and exposes the skin underneath. It may appear as whip-like and rat-tail like. If the vet ends up clipping patches of your dog's coat to run blood tests to determine if he has hyperthyroidism, the patch may not regrow for a few months. You may also notice that your dog's skin appears greasy. It may feel greasy to the touch. There may also be hyper-pigmentation, where areas that were once buff colored have a blue-grey appearance. Your dog may also itch his skin and may develop a bacterial infection or a yeast infection that leads to itchiness, which is due to his poor immunity. Check your dog’s heart rate. A dog with hypothyroidism may develop a slow heart rate, where his heart rate is below the normal rate for a golden retriever, usually around 60-100 beats per minute. Your goldie may have a heart rate that is at the bottom of this range or below it. You can check your dog's heart rate by using a stopwatch or a watch with a second hand. You can also use the stopwatch option on your smartphone, if available. Hold one hand over your dog's left side, just behind his front leg. Use the stopwatch or the watch with a second hand to count the number of beats in 15 seconds. Multiple this number by four to get his heart rate in beats per minute (bpm). If it is 60 bpm or lower, this may be a sign of hypothyroidism. Look for enlarged nipples and shrunken testicles on a male retriever. If your retriever is male, you can check his nipples and his testicles. Note if his nipples appear enlarged or larger than usual, also known as gynecomastia. You should also note if his testicles look shrunken. Let your vet perform a physical exam of your dog. If you note your dog's symptoms are getting worse and you want to confirm his condition, you should take him to the vet. Your vet will do a physical exam to assess his health. She should check if your dog has another illness that is suppressing his thyroid hormone production, a phenomena known as “sick euthyroid syndrome”. This will prevent a misdiagnosis, as your dog's thyroid levels can be low due to a secondary problem that is not hypothyroidism. Treating his illness should bring your dog's thyroid levels back to normal if he is sick due to another illness or condition. Tell your vet if your dog is on any medications. Your vet should be told if your dog is on any medications, as one the side effects of pet medication can be the suppression of thyroid function. Medication that can cause thyroid suppression include corticosteroids and trimethoprim-sulphonamide antibiotics. Your vet may recommend not giving your dog this medication and allowing it to wash out of your dog's system. This can then help your dog's thyroid levels bounce back to normal. Allow the vet to run blood tests on your dog. Your vet may run screening blood tests and blood tests specifically made to examine your dog's thyroid hormone levels. The screening blood tests may note nonspecific changes in your dog like mild anemia and high cholesterol levels. But these are not specific enough on their own to confirm a hypothyroid diagnosis in your dog. Specific blood tests for thyroid hormone levels and the presence of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) are more conclusive. If your dog's levels of TSH are high and his thyroid hormone levels are low, your vet can make a clear diagnosis of hypothyroidism in your golden retriever. Have your vet run a thyroid stimulation test. This test is often done by vets if the blood results are inconclusive but your dog has clear symptoms of a medical issue. The thyroid stimulation test requires an injection of a form of TSH through an IV into your dog. The vet will then measure the amount of thyroid hormone produced in response to the TSH about six hours after the injection. If your dog's thyroid glands do not produce extra thyroid hormone in response to the TSH in your dog, this is a clear sign of hypothyroidism. Discuss your dog’s treatment. Once your vet confirms your dog's diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, the treatment is relatively simple. You will need to give your goldie a thyroid supplement twice a day in tablet form. Within four to six weeks of treatment, your goldie should start to recover and be the healthy, energetic dog he was before. He should enjoy walking, running, and playing again. His coat should also grow back. | Be aware of how hypothyroidism develops in your golden retriever. Note if your dog has low energy. Check if your dog starts to gain weight. Look at your dog’s coat for any dullness or patchiness. Check your dog’s heart rate. Look for enlarged nipples and shrunken testicles on a male retriever. Let your vet perform a physical exam of your dog. Tell your vet if your dog is on any medications. Allow the vet to run blood tests on your dog. Have your vet run a thyroid stimulation test. Discuss your dog’s treatment. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Swim-the-Butterfly-Stroke | How to Swim the Butterfly Stroke | To swim the butterfly stroke, start by extending your arms above your head so they're shoulder-width apart. Then, with your palms facing outward, pull your hands toward your body in a semicircular motion. Next, quickly push your palms back through the water past your sides and hips, which will help propel you forward. Finally, sweep both of your arms out of the water and throw them forward so you're back in the starting position. | Use the correct arm movement. The arm movement in butterfly stroke can be broken down into three parts: the pull, the push and the recovery. Starting with your arms extended above your head (shoulder width apart), pull your hands towards your body in a semicircular motion, palms facing outwards. Remember to keep your elbows higher than your hands. This is the pull. At the end of the pull, begin pushing your palms backwards through the water, along your sides and past your hips. This is the fastest part of the arm movement and provides the momentum necessary to complete the release. A good way to remember the pull and push sequence is to imagine making the shape of a large keyhole with your hands underwater. The pull is the wide part of the keyhole at the top, while the push is the narrow part of the keyhole at the bottom. The last part of the butterfly arm movement is the recovery which is where your hands must be positioned as they are in motion while finishing your pull and are getting ready to begin the subsequent stroke. Essentially your hands must reach your thighs. A good way to ensure that you have done this part of the stroke successfully is to drag your thumbs on your thighs as you are finishing the stroke. Next, sweep both arms out of the water simultaneously and throw them forwards into the starting position. Your palms should be facing outwards so your thumbs enter the water first, not your pinkies. Also, make sure the distance between your arms as you enter the water is no greater than shoulder width apart as this will greatly decrease entry drag allowing you to cut through the water more efficiently. Master the dolphin kick. The dolphin kick is the name given to the dolphin-like kick of the legs used in butterfly stroke. Imagine kicking your legs like a dolphin (or a mermaid!) would kick its tail underwater. With the dolphin kick, both legs move simultaneously, and should be pressed together to avoid a loss of water pressure. You should kick twice for each stroke of the arms in butterfly stroke. However, both kicks are not exactly the same - there is one small kick and one big kick. The small kick is performed while you are making the keyhole shape with your arms. This is because your arms are providing forward momentum in addition to your legs, so the kick doesn't need to be as strong. The big kick is performed during the recovery, when your arms come out of the water. During the recovery you tend to lose momentum, so you need a big kick to keep your body moving forwards. The most common mistake beginners make when performing the butterfly stroke is to kick in a uniform fashion, without alternating between small and big kicks. Move your body in a wave-like fashion. It's not just your arms and legs that are required during the butterfly stroke, your whole body needs to get involved! Practice moving your whole body in a wave-like fashion. Think about the way that a dolphin or mermaid moves in the water -- your body should form an undulating S shape as you swim. More specifically, when your chest rises your hips should be at their lowest position, and when your chest falls your hips should be at their highest position, with your behind breaking the surface of the water. If you can get your timing right and manage to synchronize your body movement with your arms and leg strokes, you will find the butterfly much easier to master. You will be able to swim faster and find yourself getting tired less easily. Know when to breathe. Breathing during butterfly stoke can be a little tricky, as it has to be perfectly timed and completed pretty quickly. The correct point to take a breath during butterfly stroke is when your arms are just coming out of the water at the beginning of the recovery phase. As your arms are about to come out of the water, raise your head until your chin is just above the water and take a breath. Do not turn your head to the left or right - it should be kept straight. However, some swimmers who swim in the FINA World Cup do breathe to the side. This is not illegal, and may be more comfortable you. Begin by trying face forward, but try side breathing if you find it difficult after some time. As your arms recover drop your face back into the water and tuck your chin in so it touches above your chest. This will help you to lift your arms a lot higher. Avoid breathing on every stroke, if possible. Every time you lift your head out of the water to breathe, it will slow you down slightly. Try breathe to every other stroke, or even less if possible. Of course, on longer races you may have to breathe more, but balance your need for breath and for speed. Put it all together. By combining all of the steps outlined above - the arm stroke, the dolphin kick, the body movement and the correct breathing technique - you will find yourself doing the butterfly stroke! However, bear in mind that this is a tough stroke to perfect and it will take time and practice before you are able to synchronize all of these movements and swim the butterfly stroke correctly. Learn good technique. Incorrect butterfly technique can lead to problems in certain muscles and joints, such as the rotatory cuffs in the shoulders if done for long periods of time. It will also make the butterfly stroke harder than it actually is. Use a coach. Learning butterfly stroke just by reading about it will not work any more than reading a book will teach you to ride a bike. A swim coach can walk you through the stroke in more detail. A coach will also be able to observe you while you swim and pick out any flaws in your technique -- in this way, a knowledgeable outside perspective could be invaluable in helping you to improve your butterfly. Do a one-armed butterfly. The first drill you can use to practice your butterfly technique is the one armed butterfly. Start with your arms at the 11 o' clock position, or shoulder-width apart. Begin swimming, using the dolphin kick. On every fourth kick, complete a single stroke with one arm, keeping the other arm pointing straight ahead. While practicing this drill, you may breathe to the side, rather than lifting your head straight out of the water as you do in full butterfly stroke. Once you have completed a full length of the pool using a single arm, switch to the other arm to build strength and technique evenly. Use repetitive arm strokes. This drill is great for improving balance and giving you more control over your stroke. Begin swimming using the dolphin kick, with your arms straight out in front, one shoulder-width apart. Instead of the regular arm stroke, practice doing two strokes with the right arm, followed by two strokes with the left arm, followed by two strokes using both arms simultaneously. Practice your dolphin kick. This drill is great for understanding the rhythm of the dolphin kick, while also helping you to time your breathing better. Keeping your arms locked at your sides and your head underwater, propel yourself down the length of the pool using only the dolphin kick. Try to alternate between big kicks and small kicks, as described in the previous section, and to get a feel for the rhythm of the movement. Breathe on every fourth or fifth kick, synchronizing your body movement with your breathing in the way that feels most logical and natural. Once you have developed a greater understanding for the rhythm of the movement, you can add your arms back into the stroke. | Use the correct arm movement. Master the dolphin kick. Move your body in a wave-like fashion. Know when to breathe. Put it all together. Do a one-armed butterfly. Use repetitive arm strokes. Practice your dolphin kick. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Check-Available-License-Plates | How to Check Available License Plates | To check if a license plate is available in your state, start by visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website. If you want to find out if a particular phrase is available for your plate, look for a link that says something like check vanity plates or check personal plates. Then, type your desired phrase into the search box. Alternatively, if you just want to find out which plate styles are on offer, look for a link on the site about themed plates. Once you've found the design of plate you'd like, order it online if your state's DMV website lets you do this. If it doesn't, complete an application form and take it to your local DMV office. | Decide on a phrase. Part of the fun in getting a vanity plate is coming up with a personalized or clever phrase to include as the identifying number on the license plate. You should think about what you want it to say, but make sure it is not inappropriate because that probably won't get approved. Come up with several variations, possibly including numbers or alternative spellings, in case your first choice is unavailable. For example, if you want your license plate to read “TOOFAST,” you might consider “2FAST,” “TOFAST,” or “2FASST” as alternative options in case someone else already chose the one you originally wanted. Check online to see if your chosen phrase is available. Most states will have an online option to enter specific characters that you wish to have on your license plate to see if that option is available for you to choose. Enter your chosen phrase and see if it is available in your state. To find your state's DMV website, you should do an internet search for the phrase “DMV List.” Once you select one of the websites included in the search results, it will take you to a list of all of the states in the US. From there, you can select your state and it will link you directly to your state's DMV website. On the DMV's webpage, look for options like “Check Plate Availability,” “Vanity Plate Options,” or “Check Personal Plate.” A link like this will lead you to a page where you can enter in your chosen phrase to see if it is available. If you are applying for your license plate in person at the DMV, you'll need to ask the DMV employee to check for the availability of your phrase for you. Finalize your purchase. Once you have selected a phrase that is available for your license plate, you should complete your purchase by entering in any required information and paying for your new license plate. If you're placing your order online, you'll need a credit card to pay for the order. If you're completing the process in an actual DMV office, you should be able to pay with cash, check, or credit card. Access your region's DMV website. Most states or regions will have detailed information about different types of license plates on the DMV website. Find your state's DMV website by doing an internet search for "DMV List." This will lead you to a website that links to a list of every single DMV office in the United States. Then scroll down the webpage until you locate the name of your state. Click on the blue arrow within the "DMV" column next to your state. You will then be redirected to your state's official DMV website. Locate information on available license plates within your region. Navigate through your region's DMV website to locate the section for license plate information. In most cases, license plate information will be located within the registration section of the DMV website. Be sure to search specifically for the state you want to get a license plate in because rules and regulations can vary from state to state. Review each license plate style and theme. Most DMV websites will have photographs and samples of different license plate styles and themes you can choose from. There will likely be a selection of license plates to pick from with various themes – like religious, agricultural, state pride, etc. Consider the fees and requirements for each style of license plate. Some personalized or specialized license plates will require you to pay additional annual fees or have restrictions on the amount of characters you can have displayed on the license plates. For example, if you purchase a personalized California license plate bearing a Lake Tahoe logo, you will be required to pay 90 dollars (66 euros) in addition to standard registration fees. You will also be required to choose a number and letter combination of between two and seven characters. Order your desired license plates. Some states or regions will allow you to order your license plates online at the DMV website, while other states may require you to complete an application and purchase your license plates in person at your nearest DMV office. Read and review the rules and regulations in place for purchasing license plates on your region's DMV website. Visit a DMV office in your local area. Most full-service DMV offices will allow you to review each style and theme of license plate at the time of your vehicle registration. Locate the nearest DMV office by consulting with your local telephone directory or by visiting your region's DMV website. Your region's DMV website may be listed on the "DMV List" website, but you can do a quick internet search to find the office nearest you. View the available options for license plates. In most cases, each theme and style of license plate will be displayed publicly in the DMV office. Wait in line and ask a DMV representative about available license plates if samples of license plates are not displayed for you to review at the DMV office. You can also view the available options ahead of time online so that you already have an idea of what you want by the time you make it to the DMV. Verify the fees and requirements for each license plate style. At the time of registration, the DMV representative may advise you of any applicable annual fees or requirements for each type of license plate. For example, if you want license plates that state you are the alumni for a particular college or university, you may need to provide proof that you are an alumni of that particular school before you can be issued the license plates. Wait for your license plate to arrive. If you ordered your license plate online, it may take a few business days to receive it in the mail. If you ordered your license plate in person, it will also take a few days for you to receive your new plate in the mail. Typically, your new license plate should arrive within 14 days after your order was placed. Remove your old license plate. Using a Phillips or flathead screwdriver (depending on which kind of screws were used to initially install the existing license plate), unscrew the screws and pull them out. Set the screws aside so you can reuse them with the new license plate. Once the screws have been removed, the old license plate should simply slide off. Attach the new license plate. Line up the pre-drilled holes in the license plate with the holes that the screws will go into. Use your screwdriver to turn the screws clockwise so that they tighten into the drilled holes. Once the screws are completely tight, your new license plate will be ready to go. Make sure you adhere the expiration sticker to the license plate. You should have received this sticker when you registered for your new license plate. | Decide on a phrase. Check online to see if your chosen phrase is available. Finalize your purchase. Access your region's DMV website. Locate information on available license plates within your region. Review each license plate style and theme. Consider the fees and requirements for each style of license plate. Order your desired license plates. Visit a DMV office in your local area. View the available options for license plates. Verify the fees and requirements for each license plate style. Wait for your license plate to arrive. Remove your old license plate. Attach the new license plate. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Spot-and-Treat-Feline-Asthma | How to Spot and Treat Feline Asthma | If you're worried that your cat has asthma, look for common feline asthma symptoms, like wheezing, coughing, and open-mouthed breathing. You should take your cat to a vet for a diagnosis if it displays one or more of these symptoms for more than a day. Then, give your cat any medication they're prescribed to reduce its inflammation and help it breathe. You should also keep it indoors as much as possible to avoid exposure to allergens like tree pollen, grasses, and ragweed. If you don't have dust-free cat litter, pick some up at a pet store in case your cat is allergic to your old litter. | Monitor your cat. When a cat has an asthma fare up, the cat's airway will swell and constrict. This can make breathing difficult for the cat. However, because cats tend to hide any ailments they have, it may be hard to spot this problem. Your cat might have asthma if it shows any of the following symptoms: Persistent coughing that's not associated with “hacking a hairball” Wheezing, especially while breathing out Lethargy Persistent gagging Open-mouthed breathing A crouched position while wheezing or coughing Watch for symptoms in adult cats. Cats are not typically born with asthma, as it is thought to be caused by an immune response to allergens the cat inhales. Your cat may develop asthma between the ages of 1 and 8; however, most cats are diagnosed between the ages of 4 and 5. Pay closer attention to your cat in these years if you feel it is at risk for asthma. If you have a Siamese cat, you will want to be on the lookout for any symptoms after your cat turns 1 and definitely keep an eye out when it's between the ages of 4 and 5. Siamese cats are more likely to develop asthma than other breeds. Take your cat to a veterinarian. If you suspect your cat to have feline asthma, take it to be seen by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will do a thorough exam and will pay special attention to your cat's respiratory system. Do not try to diagnose your cat if you do not have the right credentials. You may end up misdiagnosing and incorrectly treating your cat. Approve veterinary testing. While there is not one specific test for diagnosing asthma, there are a variety of tests that your veterinarian will use to come up with a diagnosis. Using radiographs, bronchoscopy, and computed tomography, in combination with tests of cells from your cat's lungs, your veterinarian will be able to evaluate your cat's lungs and the extent of its condition. A bronchoscopy is a procedure that is used to view the inside of your cat's airway. It will allow the veterinarian to examine all the parts of the cat's respiratory system. In very rare cases, computed tomography, commonly called a CT scan, may be used to give a detailed image of your cat's airway. Follow your veterinarian's treatment suggestions. Depending on the extent of your cat's condition, treatment will vary. Your veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and make it easier for your cat to breath. However, these are not typically used for long-term treatment. They may also prescribe bronchodilators, which open up the airway and are commonly used to control asthma. Your veterinarian may give your cat a dose of the medications they prescribe right away. After that first dose, it will be your responsibility to continue its treatment at home. Both corticosteroids and bronchodilators come in a variety of different forms. Your cat may be prescribed an oral, inhaled, or injected medication. Keep your cat indoors as much as possible. Cats can become allergic to many of the same things that impact humans. Outdoor allergens like tree pollens, grasses, ragweed, and mold may trigger your cat's asthma, so try to keep your cat indoors where you can better control the environment. Clean your home regularly to minimize indoor allergens. Unfortunately, cats with asthma may also suffer from indoor allergies to dust mites, molds, or mildew. Vacuum and dust as much as possible in order to remove indoor allergens. If you have carpet, it's especially important to vacuum regularly. Purchase dust-free cat litter. The dust from cat litter is one of the most common and problematic triggers for asthmatic cats. Check for a dust-free litter at your pet supplies store or online. Be careful with “all natural” litters made out of things like wood chips, as your cat could also be allergic to one of these substances. Do not smoke anything around your cat. Smoking around a cat with asthma may make their condition worse, and it could even be fatal to a cat with severe asthma. Because it is believed that asthma in cats is caused by environmental allergens, smoking around your cat could cause your cat to develop this condition. Thus, even if your cat doesn't have asthma, it is a bad idea to smoke around it. Use unscented products. Scented litter should not be used for cats with asthma. Also eliminate the use of scented home products, such as perfume, air fresheners, and hairspray if you have a cat with asthma. If you need to freshen the air in your home, consider using a non-scented air purifier instead of scented products. This will have the added benefit of clearing pollen out of your home in addition to freshening it up. Control your cat's weight with diet and exercise. Excess weight can make your cat's asthma worse, as obesity alone can diminish your cat's respiratory health. It can increase your cat's blood pressure and put unnecessary stress on its respiratory system. In order to avoid this, be sure not to over-feed your cat and make sure that it gets daily exercise. Play with your cat often to give it consistent exercise. This does not need to be strenuous exercise, but it should get your cat's blood flowing and its respiratory system engaged. Having it exercise in this way will strengthen it's lungs and improve its breathing over time. However, be careful to not overexert your cat. Keep an eye on it and if you see signs that it is having trouble breathing, discontinue your activity. | Monitor your cat. Watch for symptoms in adult cats. Take your cat to a veterinarian. Approve veterinary testing. Follow your veterinarian's treatment suggestions. Keep your cat indoors as much as possible. Clean your home regularly to minimize indoor allergens. Purchase dust-free cat litter. Do not smoke anything around your cat. Use unscented products. Control your cat's weight with diet and exercise. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Yourself-Poop | How to Make Yourself Poop | To make yourself poop, drink a cup of warm tea, coffee, or plain water, which will help soften your stool so you have a bowel movement. You can also try mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with a 1/4 cup of water and then drinking it. If you'd like a faster-acting solution, use Epsom salts instead of baking soda. For a long-term solution, try to incorporate more fiber in your diet by eating fiber-rich foods or taking a fiber supplement. | Drink a cup of warm water with lemon juice. Drinking warm water with lemon juice can be especially helpful first thing in the morning, but you can drink warm water with lemon juice any time during the day. Just add about one teaspoon of lemon juice to a cup (8 ounces) of warm water. Sip the water slowly. Drinking warm water with lemon juice should soften your stools and help you have a bowel movement, but it may take a little while before it happens. If constipation is a frequent problem for you, then you may want to consider starting every day with a cup of warm water and lemon juice. If you don't have any lemon juice around, then you can also drink a cup of tea, coffee, or just plain warm water to help get your bowels moving. Mix up an Epsom salt solution. Epsom salts are approved by the FDA for use as a short-term laxative. If you have some Epsom salts at home, then you can mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of Epsom salts (check the package to be sure about how much you should use) into 8 ounces of water and drink the solution. This should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to six hours. You can also take a bath with Epsom salts to help relieve your constipation. Fill a bathtub with warm water and add about one cup of Epsom salts to the water. Your body will absorb the magnesium in the Epsom salts through your skin. Try a baking soda solution. A mixture of baking soda and water may also help to relieve your constipation. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and drink the solution. This remedy can also help to relieve gas or an upset stomach along with your constipation. Keep in mind that baking soda is high in sodium so this remedy is not ideal for people following a low-sodium diet. Eat some prunes or drink prune juice. Prunes are well known for their ability to produce bowel movements. If you have some prunes or prune juice around your house, then try eating or drinking some prunes to help you have a bowel movement. You don't need to overdo it, just have a few prunes or one cup of prune juice. Two medium prunes contain about 2 grams of fiber and a cup of prune juice contains about 5.2 grams of fiber. If you are suffering from chronic constipation try and apple juice and prune juice cleanse. Drink 2 or 3 cups of prune juice in the morning on an empty stomach. A little bit later top this off with a cup of apple juice. This combination will certainly assist you in relieving your constipation and make you poop. Go for a walk. Light exercise is a great way to stimulate your digestive system as well. If you have been sedentary for a while, try getting up and taking a walk around your neighborhood to get your bowels moving. Even if constipation is making you feel uncomfortable, don't sit or lie down. Get out and move around every day. Going for a daily walk or run can help ease constipation. One risk factor for poor bowel movements is inactivity. If you increase your activity this helps accelerate your breathing and heart rate. This, in turn, stimulates the natural contraction of you intestinal smooth muscle, which will help you move your bowels better. Take a stool softener. Stool softeners are for oral use and are a relatively gentle laxative. Stool softeners are good products to use at first if you have occasional constipation. A stool softener, such as docusate, works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs. The stool then becomes softer and easier to pass. Follow the instructions on the package. Generally, you will take a stool softener once a night before you go to bed. It should work after one, two, or three days. Do not take it for more than a week unless advised to do so by your doctor. Try a laxative. Perhaps the most straightforward short-term way to help ease constipation is to take a laxative. There are a number of different laxatives that are available from your local pharmacy or drugstore. Osmotic laxatives work by helping fluids move through the colon. Some of the examples of osmotic laxatives include: Milk of magnesia Magnesium citrate Lactulose Polyethylene glycol The long-term use of laxatives can lead to negative side-effects. They can cause an electrolyte imbalance, which may result in abnormal heart rhythms, confusion, and weakness, and seizures. Long-term use may also lead to dependency and result in decreased bowel functionality. Administer a Fleet enema. A sodium phosphate enema is one way to relieve occasional constipation. It requires you to insert the enema tip into your rectum and then squeeze the bottle until enough of the substance is in your rectum. You will then have to stay in position for up to five minutes. After that, you will feel a strong urge to go to the toilet. These enemas are available at most supermarkets and drugstores. You should try milder laxative, such as stool softeners, before trying an enema. To use a Fleet enema , lie on your side. Remove the cap from the applicator tip and gently insert it into your anus. Slowly squeeze the contents and empty the contents. For best results stay lying on your side and attempt to hold the enema in for one to five minutes or until you feel the urge to go to the bathroom. Never hold an enema for more than 10 minutes, as this can be dangerous. Eat more fiber. More often than not constipation occurs when somebody is not eating right, not drinking enough water, or not exercising enough. As far as your diet is concerned, the thing to do to tackle constipation is to add more fiber, which helps digest food and increase intestinal motility. You should try to eat at least 18-30g of fiber each day. High-fiber foods include fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals. Some good ways. According to the Institute of Medicine, the recommended daily allowance of total fiber in adults is 38 grams and 25 grams for men and women, respectively. Pregnant and lactating women should receive 28 grams a day. A higher intake of fiber will not produce harmful effects in healthy adults. Eat a high-fiber breakfast cereal. Choose wholegrain or granary loaves of bread. Add pulses such as beans, lentils, or chickpeas to stews and salads. Have some fresh or dried fruit for dessert. Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your diet. Choose a fruit smoothie at breakfast, a salad at lunch, and leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or sweet potatoes at dinner. Or in the morning have warm water with lemon juice and carrots on the side. If you are often constipated, then try adding prunes as a regular snack in your diet. Prunes increase fiber in your diet and they often work to speed up digestion. One clinical trial found that 70 percent of people find relief from constipation with prunes. Take a fiber supplement. If you are struggling to get enough fiber into your daily diet, you could always opt for a fiber supplement. These supplements are available at your local drugstore and supermarket. They can be a good short-term measure, but try to incorporate fiber from fresh food into your diet in the longer-term. Drink plenty of fluids. Make sure you are consuming at least 64 oz. (1.9 L) of water per day. Dehydration can contribute to constipation, as if there isn't enough fluid in your gut, your digestion will slow down and stools become bulky and painful. Warm liquids, like tea and coffee, may also improve your regularity. Drink them in the morning to heat up your intestines. Don't drink too much caffeine, or you can become dehydrated, making the problem worse. Listen to your body. You should always try to listen to your body and respond to it. That means don't delay when you need to go, and don't try to hold it in. You may be constipated because you have been withholding when you need to go. In this case, feces can condense, making the stool harder to pass. People who are traveling or experiencing a change in routine can become constipated. Add in yogurt or prunes and try to stay near a toilet. Ask for an aisle seat on a plane or stop frequently on a road trip. Make your home bathroom a relaxing environment. Having an environment where you can relax can help you poop more easily and not rush or force it. Close the door and make sure your family knows it is not okay to enter if the door is shut. Don't let people pressure you or make a fuss of it. Never get stressed out as this may slow the process down. Try placing your feet on a low stool when you are using the toilet. This can elevate your knees above your hips, and potentially make passing stools easier. Relax on the toilet. Try to relax when you are sat on the toilet, and breathe steadily. Don't hold your breath and don't take a deep breath at the start. One toilet technique is to imagine that your back passage is an elevator. Gently try to push down to the ground floor, and then the basement, until it is down as far as it can go. Relax for a second, but do not let the elevator rise back up. Widen your waist and push back and down. Don't strain yourself, but try to maintain the pressure. Make an appointment with your doctor. If you have tried all of these methods and you were still unable to go to the bathroom, you could have a bowel obstruction. If constipation persists for weeks you should get checked to rule out other more serious medical issues. You should see a doctor straight away if you have symptoms such as cramping, spasms, dizziness or fatigue. You can ask your doctor about a biofeedback appointment. This is a special consultation in which you will learn how to relax and tighten muscles in your pelvic area. If you are on any medications, discuss this with your doctor. There is a chance that medications could be causing your constipation. Get an abdominal massage. If you have long-term constipation problems, an abdominal massage can help. The message takes around 10-20 minutes and can be done while you are standing, sitting, or lying down. These massages can reduce the need for the regular use of laxatives, and can relieve flatulence. Abdominal massage is not recommended for everybody, so speak to your doctor first. Pregnant woman should not get a massage and neither should someone with a history of malignant bowel obstructions. Consider prescription medications. You can talk to your doctor about prescription medications that are available to treat constipation. These medications work to draw water into your intestines. This speeds up the movement of the stool. Your doctor will generally only recommend such medications if over-the-counter laxatives have been ineffective. | Drink a cup of warm water with lemon juice. Mix up an Epsom salt solution. Try a baking soda solution. Eat some prunes or drink prune juice. Go for a walk. Take a stool softener. Try a laxative. Administer a Fleet enema. Eat more fiber. Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your diet. Take a fiber supplement. Drink plenty of fluids. Listen to your body. Make your home bathroom a relaxing environment. Relax on the toilet. Make an appointment with your doctor. Get an abdominal massage. Consider prescription medications. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Lobbyist | How to Become a Lobbyist | To become a lobbyist, start by staying informed about government policies and current events, so that you're able to explain complex issues to people in simple terms. Additionally, get involved in your local community by making phone calls or writing letters to legislators. Next, learn how to persuade policymakers by fundraising for them and attending their events. Finally, try to find a lobbying internship with a state legislature to gain experience and make important connections with lawmakers. | Take courses in political science or related fields. You don't have to have a degree in a specific field to become a lobbyist. However, studying political science or other relevant subjects can give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful. Specific lobbying jobs may also require you to have a minimum level of education (e.g., a bachelor's degree). For example, many lobbyists have degrees in political science, communications, economics, or law. Build strong communication skills. Being able to communicate clearly and persuasively is key to being a successful lobbyist. If you're in school or college, sign up for courses in writing and public speaking to build up your written and verbal communication abilities. Signing up for your school's debate team or mock trial club can be a great way to hone your argumentative skills! You can also take writing and speaking classes online through websites like Udemy, Coursera, and edX. Pursue an advanced degree to get a competitive edge. You don't need an advanced or specialized degree to be a lobbyist, but getting one of these degrees can make you look more impressive to employers. This is also a useful approach if you want to lobby in a particular area of interest. For example, if you want to work as a health care lobbyist, you may find it helpful to pursue an advanced healthcare degree, such as DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice). A law degree can also give you a competitive advantage in the lobbying field. Learn about basic legislative rules and procedures. Understanding how the legislative process works can help you become a much more effective lobbyist. Take time to research how the system works so that you have a strong understanding of how measures are introduced and how bills are passed. Robert's Rules of Order is a very useful guide to the basic rules of legislative procedure. Many state government websites offer specific information about local legislative process. Try doing an online search using terms such as “legislative process Illinois” or “how a bill becomes law Texas.” Read up on current issues in your area of interest. If you're interested in lobbying in a particular field, stay on top of current events and legislative issues in that field, especially in your local area. Staying informed on what the issues are—and where your local lawmakers stand—will help you figure out which legislators to target and how to build the most persuasive arguments. Take time getting to know your local politicians, their histories, and where they stand on the issues you're interested in. You may find it helpful to talk to other lobbyists in your area and get their perspective on how the system works. Spend time in a government job to gain experience. A lot of people break into the lobbying field after working in a government office. Doing so can help you gain expertise in local policy making procedures and will also make you look more impressive to prospective employers or clients. You might try: Running for elected office in the legislative or executive branches of your local government. This will give you direct experience with the legislative process. If you can't run for office, getting a staff position with the legislature is another great way to get your foot in the door. For example, you might apply to be a legislative assistant for your local congressperson. Look into your state’s lobbying registration laws. All states in the U.S. require lobbyists to register with the state before doing any lobbying activities. Before you start working as a lobbyist, check with your Secretary of State's office to find out what information you need to provide and whether you need to pay a registration fee. You can find a list of registration requirements by state here: http://www.ncsl.org/research/ethics/50-state-chart-lobbyist-registration-requirements.aspx You may need to supply information such as what kind of compensation you are receiving for your lobbying work, who your clients or employers are, and which subject(s) you'll be lobbying about. Take any required lobbying courses before registering. Some states require lobbyists to take training courses or seminars before doing any lobbying work. These courses typically focus on ethics training. Check with your Secretary of State's office to find out if you need any special training before you begin work. For example, lobbyists in California are required to take a Lobbyist Ethics Course and certify the completion of this course with the Secretary of State's office by a specific deadline. Keep up with your lobbying reports. Most states require lobbyists to file regular disclosure reports about their activities. Inquire with your Secretary of State's office about how often you need to file reports and what kind of information you have to provide. You can find a summary of activity report requirements for each state here: http://www.ncsl.org/research/ethics/50-state-chart-lobbyist-report-requirements.aspx. These reports are available to the public and they usually contain information about how much money you or your client are spending on lobbying and which issues you are lobbying about. Your employer or client may also need to file reports about your activities. Familiarize yourself with the types of lobbying jobs. There are a variety of different ways to approach being a lobbyist. You can work as a contracted lobbyist for an organization such as a company or trade association, or you can work in-house as a full time government relations employee for a business. Local government administrations also hire lobbyists to communicate with the legislature on their behalf. For example, a drug company might hire a health care lobbyist full time in a government relations position. Check lobbyist-specific job boards. When you're ready to look for lobbyist jobs, dedicated job boards or sites devoted to lobbying-related jobs are a good place to start. For example, you might look for jobs in your area on websites such as: Lobbyingjobs.com, a website dedicated to posting lobbyist and government relations positions. Workforgood.org, which posts jobs with nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, including advocacy/lobbying jobs. The PAC.org job board, which lists job opportunities for public affairs professionals. Look for lobbyist jobs on general job sites. In addition to using dedicated job boards, you can also find lobbyist jobs on general job sites such as Indeed and Monster.com. Use these sites to search for lobbyist jobs in your area. In addition to “lobbyist,” use search terms such as “advocacy” and “government relations.” Reach out to your professional network about job opportunities. Many lobbyists find jobs through networking and word of mouth. If you've had a chance to make some contacts in your community, let them know that you are in the market for a lobbying job. Someone may be able to put in a good word for you with a colleague who's looking to hire! Talking to other lobbyists can be a good way to find out about potential job openings. Apply for jobs that align with your interests and experience. You'll be most happy and successful as a lobbyist if you do work in an area that you're passionate and knowledgeable about. Look for positions that are a good fit for your strengths and interests, but that also align well with your personal moral and ethical standards. For example, if you're interested in health issues, a job with a public health organization might be a good fit for you. On the other hand, you might not be happy lobbying for a tobacco company that's pushing for fewer restrictions on advertising. | Take courses in political science or related fields. Build strong communication skills. Pursue an advanced degree to get a competitive edge. Learn about basic legislative rules and procedures. Read up on current issues in your area of interest. Spend time in a government job to gain experience. Look into your state’s lobbying registration laws. Take any required lobbying courses before registering. Keep up with your lobbying reports. Familiarize yourself with the types of lobbying jobs. Check lobbyist-specific job boards. Look for lobbyist jobs on general job sites. Reach out to your professional network about job opportunities. Apply for jobs that align with your interests and experience. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Yoga-for-Absolute-Beginners | How to Do Yoga for Absolute Beginners | To do yoga for absolute beginners, start by putting on some comfy clothes and finding a quiet place where you won't be disturbed. If you don't have a yoga mat, you can just practice on a blanket or a pillow. When you're ready, follow along with an online yoga video so you can learn the different poses at your own pace. As you're doing yoga, try to focus on your breathing by taking deep, relaxing breaths. | Choose a place to do yoga that is free from distractions. Yoga is best practiced somewhere that you will not be interrupted, such as in your bedroom or in your living room when no one else is home. However, you can do yoga outside if the weather is nice. Choose where you will practice yoga and remove as many distractions as possible. Turn off your phone, the TV, and any other distracting devices. Tell other members of your household that you will be doing some yoga and would like to be left alone for a little while. Use a yoga mat, blankets, and pillows if desired. You do not absolutely need yoga equipment to do yoga, but it can be helpful for getting comfortable. Try sitting on a pillow or blanket so that your hips are slightly elevated above your knees while you are sitting cross-legged on the floor. If you plan to do some standing poses, then you may also benefit from using yoga blocks to modify the poses. These make bending poses easier because you will not have to reach all the way to the floor. You can also use a yoga strap, a towel, or a scarf to help you do poses that require you to grab your feet or legs. Put on comfortable clothes to practice yoga. Make sure that the clothes you are wearing are comfortable and flexible. Put on a pair of yoga pants or sweatpants, with a loose fitting t-shirt or tank top. You should be barefoot when practicing yoga to ensure that you can get good traction during standing poses, and to ensure maximum comfort! Remember that you do not need to purchase special clothes to do yoga! You can practice in some old sweatpants or even in your pajamas! Get yourself a glass of water. As with any type of exercise, it is important to stay hydrated. Pour yourself a glass of water or fill a water bottle and keep it nearby while you are practicing. Take sips of water as needed during your workout. While you should drink water as needed during your yoga practice, it is best to do yoga on an empty stomach, so plan your practice for 2 to 3 hours after a meal. Follow along with a video, book, or class for beginners. As you ease into your yoga practice, you might find it helpful to have some expert guidance. The experts who make videos, write books, and take classes can provide you with valuable information on how to develop your yoga practice as an absolute beginner. Check out Youtube for yoga channels with absolute beginner yoga videos, such as Yoga with Adriene. Visit your local library or books store and get a book on yoga for beginners, such as Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar. Check out beginner yoga classes at your gym, community center, or community college. Get into a comfortable seated or lying position. You can sit on the floor, sit in a chair, or lie on your back. Do whatever feels most comfortable to you. Use pillows and blankets to make yourself even more comfortable. If you have a yoga mat, you can sit or lie on it. If not, you can sit or lie on a folded blanket or on a carpeted floor. Inhale deeply into your abdomen. As you breathe in, feel the breath filling your abdomen including your belly and up through your ribcage. Count to 4 as you breathe in to help you make the breath slow and deep. Try to imagine that your stomach is a balloon filling up with air as you inhale. Keep the breath in for a moment. Notice how your body feels after taking in the breath. Note any areas of your body that feel tense and try to relax them as you gently retain the breath. For example, if you feel tension in your shoulders, try to relax your shoulder muscles as you hold the breath. Exhale out slowly through your nose. When you feel ready, slowly exhale the breath while keeping your mouth closed. Use your abdomen to push the breath out completely. Count down from 4 as you breathe out. Imagine that the balloon is deflating. Use your core muscles to push the air up and out of your abdomen. If you feel overheated in yoga, hold your lips in a circular shape and slowly exhale through your mouth to help cool down your body. Pause after you exhale completely, and notice how your body feels. Pay attention to any areas that feel tense and try to relax them as you gently suspend your breath. Repeat this process until you feel relaxed. You can sit or lay and breathe for as long as you like to get into a relaxed state. This is an excellent way to start or end a yoga practice. Do the mountain pose by standing tall with your arms above your head. The mountain pose is 1 of the simplest yoga poses to do, so it is a great place to start a practice for absolute beginners. Stand at the edge of your yoga mat with your feet shoulder-width apart and raise your arms up over your head. Stretch your arms and fingers out straight and stand tall. Breathe in this position, and then let your arms slowly come back down to your sides. Hold the position for as long as is comfortable, whether that is 10 to 60 seconds or longer. Bend your knees to get into the chair pose. You can move from the mountain pose to another easy standing pose called the chair pose. To get into chair pose, start in the mountain pose and then bend your knees as if you are going to sit in a chair. Only go as low as you can comfortably go. Keep your arms raised above your head. Hold the pose for 10 to 60 seconds and then stand back up. Remember to breathe while you are holding the position. Step forward and spread your arms wide to get into the warrior pose. From the mountain pose, you can also take a big step forward (about 2 to 3 feet (0.61 to 0.91 m)) to get into warrior pose. Step out as if you were going to do a lunge and then spread your arms out to the sides so that 1 is in front of you and 1 is behind you. Look straight ahead, hold the position, and breathe. Stay in warrior pose for 10 to 60 seconds and then return to mountain pose. Get on your hands and knees and look straight ahead for cow pose. Slowly go from a standing position to the floor and get onto your hands and knees. Make sure that your hips are above your knees and your shoulders are above your wrists. Plant your palms firmly on the ground and make sure that your shins and the tops of your feet are on the floor. Lift your head and look straight ahead. If it is hard to lift your head all the way up, just lift it as much as is comfortable for you. Hold the position and breathe for 10 to 60 seconds. Lie on your stomach and raise your upper body for cobra pose. Slowly lower your body down to the ground so that you are on your stomach. Plant your palms on the floor next to your chest. Then push your upper body up while keeping your hips and legs on the ground. Only lift your body as far as is comfortable for you. Look straight ahead or look up if you can. Breathe and hold the position for 10 to 60 seconds. Turn over to your back to get into corpse pose. When you are ready to end your yoga routine, slowly turn over onto your back. Lie flat on the floor with your legs and arms straight. Let your arms rest at your sides or spread out next to you or above your head, whichever feels most comfortable to you. Relax and stay in this position for as long as you like. Make sure to breathe deeply and slowly to maximize your relaxation.. | Choose a place to do yoga that is free from distractions. Use a yoga mat, blankets, and pillows if desired. Put on comfortable clothes to practice yoga. Get yourself a glass of water. Follow along with a video, book, or class for beginners. Get into a comfortable seated or lying position. Inhale deeply into your abdomen. Keep the breath in for a moment. Exhale out slowly through your nose. Repeat this process until you feel relaxed. Do the mountain pose by standing tall with your arms above your head. Bend your knees to get into the chair pose. Step forward and spread your arms wide to get into the warrior pose. Get on your hands and knees and look straight ahead for cow pose. Lie on your stomach and raise your upper body for cobra pose. Turn over to your back to get into corpse pose. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Period-Lighter | How to Make Your Period Lighter | To make your period lighter, avoid eating white flour, sugar, and processed foods, which can make bloating and cramping worse. Instead, try to eat a diet of mostly fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean fish and meat. Since having low levels of potassium can lead to irregular, heavier periods, eat plenty of potassium-rich foods, like bananas, sweet potatoes, lentils, and raisins. Getting regular moderate exercise can keep your periods lighter and more regular too, so aim to exercise for about 30 minutes 5 to 6 times per week to keep your weight steady. If your period is especially heavy, talk to your doctor about getting a birth control prescription, which can regulate and lighten your period. | Avoid white flour, sugar, and processed foods. These foods apparently exacerbate the symptoms of PMS and cause difficult periods. While it's not proven that avoiding sugar and carbs actually shortens your periods, it can help reduce bloating and cramps, and many people report having lighter periods when they pay more attention to their diet. Ice cream and potato chips might be exactly what you're craving when your period comes, but you'll really feel a difference if you can avoid them! White bread, pasta, crackers, pretzels, chips, cookies, cake, and other pastries and sugary confections are on the list of foods to avoid. Swap them out for fruit and natural sweeteners like agave or honey. Avoiding these foods all month long is your best bet for managing your period. If you feel like you can't live without a few scoops of chocolate ice cream to conquer your PMS, you'll still get the benefits of eating healthy in the weeks before your period. Try a Mediterranean-style diet. Some people have found that basing their diet on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish and lean meat has a big effect on their monthly flow. The Mediterranean diet is low in sodium, saturated fat, and processed carbs, all of which cause the body to retain water and bloat up, so eating this way should help with other PMS issues as well. Eat mostly fruits and vegetables, beans and other legumes, olive oil, and whole grains like quinoa and farro. You can also place an ice pack on your lower abdomen to make your period lighter. Eat dairy products, eggs and meat in moderation. Eat food high in potassium. Having low levels of potassium in your body can lead to irregular, heavy periods, in addition to more painful cramping and other symptoms. During your entire cycle, and especially in the weeks (all three of them if you wish) leading up to your period, choose foods packed with potassium to help regulate your flow. Bananas, sweet potatoes, lentils, yogurt, salmon, and raisins are all high in potassium. Boiling foods may deplete the potassium in some foods. Steam or bake potassium-rich foods to get the full benefits, or, if possible, eat them raw. You could, if you really feel that potassium is helpful, try a dietary supplement. Increase and maintain your intake of other essential nutrients. Foods rich in essential fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins B, C, and E are ideal for menstrual health. In particular, focus on strengthening the blood vessel walls, with vitamin C, flavonoids, and iron being top of your list of must-haves. Iron is also important for restoring iron lost from excessive blood loss. Exercise regularly. Getting regular moderate exercise can help keep your periods regular and lighten them up, apparently. Regular exercise keeps your body healthy and your weight steady, so you're less likely to experience the body fat fluctuations that lead to irregular and heavy periods. Some people report that light exercises like swimming, jogging, and power walking make their periods lighter and shorter. Aim to exercise for about 30 minutes 5 - 6 times per week. The type of intense exercise you'd get when training for a marathon or another sporting event can actually cause your periods to stop altogether. It causes your estrogen levels to drop, since you lose so much fat that your body wouldn't be able to maintain a pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about going on the Pill. Birth control pills contain progesterone and estrogen, two hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and determine how heavy your period is each month. Taking birth control pills causes many people to experience lighter, shorter periods. If your period is particularly heavy and you're ready to manage it with medication, this might be the right option for you. Talk to your doctor about getting a birth control pill prescription. Everyone's body is different, and there are a lot of different types of pills designed to cater to different needs. Make an appointment with your doctor or go to your local health clinic to get the prescription that's right for you. Take the pill according to instructions. If you skip a few days, you might end up experiencing a heavy or irregular period - not to mention, the pill will no longer be effective as a birth control measure. Be sure to take the pill every single day, at the same time every day, to experience the benefits you're looking for. Consider other hormonal birth control methods. The Pill isn't the only type of birth control that can work to regulate your period. If you don't want to take a pill every day, consider these other options that will have the same benefits as the standard birth control pill: The birth control patch. This is usually placed on the arm, back or thigh. It distributes the same hormones as the Pill, only they're absorbed through your skin. The patch has to be changed every few weeks. The birth control ring. This is a small ring inserted into the vagina and changed out once a month. It releases hormones into the bloodstream. A hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). This is a small metal device that is implanted in the uterus by a health care provider. It releases hormones into the uterus and works for up to 12 years. The IUD causes some people to miss periods or have lighter periods, but for others it can make periods irregular. Look into continuous birth control pills. If you would prefer not to have your period at all, there are now options that will let you eliminate it altogether. Several drug companies make pills that create either very light or nonexistent periods, depending on your preference. The pills are similar to regular birth control pills, but they contain a type of hormone that can regulate the period to an even greater degree. Understand normal causes of heavy periods. Certain life stages cause periods to get heavier, and in some cases having a heavy period is genetic. Changes to your body or your lifestyle may be the cause of heavy periods. Be sure to check the following as possible reasons for the heavier-than-usual period: If you're going through puberty, your periods may be heavy while your hormonal levels adjust; an imbalance in estrogen and progesterone can cause heavy periods. If you've just stopped taking the Pill, you might have a heavier period, since the Pill tends to make periods lighter. If you've just had an IUD placed, chances are you're experiencing a heavier period for the first few months. The body initially treats the IUD as a foreign object and this results in heavier periods. You might consider speaking to your gynecologist and possibly changing contraception methods if this lasts more than the first three to six months. If you've just given birth, and you're experiencing heavy periods, you may need to wait. Periods following birth can be heavy, particularly if you don't breastfeed. However, your usual level of period should be restored within two to three cycles. . Try aromatherapy to ease the stress of a heavy period If you trust in using aromatherapy as a treatment method, then this might assist, and probably in conjunction with other methods. Try a blend of two drops each of rose attar, Roman chamomile , and clary sage essential oils with four drops of sweet marjoram oil and two tablespoons of sweet almond or olive oil as the carrier oil. Rub this mixture over your stomach every night during menstruation, or have your partner do it for you. Keep menstrual pain medication or herbal treatments well stocked up and in date. If you're also experiencing pain along with the heaviness, you can at least deal with the pain and remove one source of distress. If you don't have menstrual pain medication, you can also use regular pain killers, such as ibuprofen, to alleviate pain from cramping. Don't suffer in silence; get rid of the pain side of the period. Speak with your doctor if you're not sure what's safe to take to alleviate your period pain. Have plenty of sanitary implements on hand. Don't skimp: get your favorite brand and make sure you never have the chance of running out while you're on your period. Buy plenty of supplies in super size, including both tampons and pads. Have overnight pads on hand, too, since you should not sleep with a tampon. Don't be dismayed that you need the super super size that absorbs the most; so what? It says nothing about you as a person or your physique. If you're worried that a sanitary item might be showing through your clothes, try to check in a large mirror or ask a friend to prove to you that it's not. Often it's more a feeling than a reality, although you may need to avoid some body hugging styles if they do show. For some people, tampons may not ever be adequate with a heavy flow, so be prepared to trial different types of sanitary coverage, including pads, menstrual cups , and other forms of menstruation protection. Deal with leakage. Those with heavy periods may experience occasional leakage onto clothing. If you're worried about leakage, try doubling up on pads to get maximum coverage. It is a good idea to have a second lower set of clothing in a locker, in a bag, or in another convenient place, just in case. Good friends, teachers, coworkers, and caring strangers will be kind enough to warn you when it happens if you can't tell. Ignore anyone who is unkind. It is not something to be embarrassed about; anyone who laughs is inconsiderate and lacks compassion. Cover things to avoid getting blood on them. Cover beds, couches, sheets, etc., where you'll be sitting or lying for a while with a towel or other cover that is easily washable and will dry fast. It's far easier than getting blood off the mattress or couch cover and nobody is any the wiser when you whip it away. Talk to your doctor if your period is extremely heavy. In some cases a heavy period is an indication that you may be experiencing a medical problem affecting your flow. A certain amount of blood loss is normal, but it's possible to lose too much blood and become anemic and weak. If your period lasts longer than a week, you're passing large blood clots, you soak through your pad or tampon every hour, and you feel weak or short of breath, you should see a doctor right away to find out what's causing the problem. Write a description of your typical period and other symptoms you tend to experience around the time of your flow. Have your doctor check into issues that commonly cause heavy periods. A hormonal imbalance, fibroids, polyps, and more severe illnesses might be causing excessive blood loss. Your doctor will give you a pelvic examination and may also do a vaginal biopsy, ultrasound, blood tests, pap smear, or cervix biopsy. | Avoid white flour, sugar, and processed foods. Try a Mediterranean-style diet. You can also place an ice pack on your lower abdomen to make your period lighter. Eat food high in potassium. Increase and maintain your intake of other essential nutrients. Exercise regularly. Talk to your doctor about going on the Pill. Consider other hormonal birth control methods. Look into continuous birth control pills. Understand normal causes of heavy periods. . Keep menstrual pain medication or herbal treatments well stocked up and in date. Have plenty of sanitary implements on hand. Deal with leakage. Cover things to avoid getting blood on them. Talk to your doctor if your period is extremely heavy. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Breakfast-Pizza | How to Make Breakfast Pizza | To make sausage and scrambled egg breakfast pizza, start by rolling out the pizza dough onto a greased baking tray. Once the dough is ready, cook 1/2 pound of breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes. When the sausage is done, transfer it to a bowl, and saute some chopped onions and peppers in the skillet for 3 to 5 minutes. After the vegetables are ready, transfer them to the bowl. Then, cook 5 beaten eggs in the pan until they're just set, since they'll have more time to finish cooking in the oven. After you've done the eggs, cover the pizza dough with cheese, sauce, add the sausage, peppers, onions, and eggs, and top with hash browns and cheese. Finally, bake the pizza for 20 to 25 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. | Preheat the oven to 375 °F (191 °C) and spray a pan with cooking spray. Get out a 12 in (30 cm) round pizza pan or a rectangular baking sheet. Spray the pan or sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Spraying the pan will prevent the pizza from sticking to it. If you don't have cooking spray, drizzle a little olive oil over the pan. You can then brush the oil with a pastry brush for even coverage. Roll out the dough and place it on the pan. Open a 13.8-ounce (391 g) can of refrigerated classic pizza crust and use your hands to stretch it out to a 12 in (30 cm) circle. If you prefer, use a rolling pin to make the dough fit the round pizza pan. If you're using a rectangular sheet, roll the dough to the 12 in (30 cm) circle and place it on the center of the sheet. Cook the sausage for 5 to 7 minutes over medium-high heat. Put ⁄ 2 pound (230 g) of ground breakfast sausage into a skillet and turn the burner to medium-high. Cook the sausage until it's completely browned and break up the meat with your spoon as you stir. Then transfer the sausage to a bowl. If you can't find ground breakfast sausage, take breakfast sausage links and split open the casings. Then squeeze the sausage into a skillet. Sauté the onion and peppers for 3 to 5 minutes. Put 1 tablespoon (14 g) of unsalted butter into the skillet that you used to cook the sausage and turn the burner down to medium. Add 1/2 cup (75 g) of diced yellow onion, 1/4 cup (45 g) of diced green bell pepper, and 1/4 cup (45 g) of diced red bell pepper. Cook the vegetables until they soften just a little and then turn off the burner. Stir the vegetables occasionally to prevent them from sticking. If the sausage released more than 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of grease that's still in the pan, you don't need to add butter to the skillet. Scramble the eggs until they're just set. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and keep the burner on medium. Pour 5 beaten eggs into the skillet and season them with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir the eggs frequently and cook them until they're soft and barely set. Don't cook the eggs until they're substantial since they'll cook even more in the oven. Spread cheese sauce, sausage, vegetables, and eggs over the dough. Spoon about 1 cup (212 g) of cheese sauce over the pizza dough and scatter the browned sausage over it. Then top the pizza with the sautéed vegetables and scrambled eggs. You can purchase a jar of cheese sauce or make your own. Scatter the hash browns and cheese on top. Take 1 cup (130 g) of thawed hash brown potatoes and sprinkle them over the top of the pizza. Then spread 1 cup (113 g) of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup (113 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. You can use your favorite type of shredded cheese. For example, use 2 cups (226 g) of shredded pepper jack cheese if you like a little spice. Bake the pizza for 20 to 25 minutes. Put the assembled pizza into the preheated oven and bake it until the crust becomes golden brown. The cheese should also melt and bubble a little. Let the pizza cool for 10 minutes before you slice it and serve it. Refrigerate leftover breakfast pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C) and grease a pizza pan. Get out a 12 in (30 cm) round pizza pan or a rectangular baking sheet. Then spray the sheet with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray. If you don't have spray, just drizzle the pan with a little olive oil and brush it evenly using a pastry brush. Chop the bacon and fry it for 3 to 4 minutes. Cut 8 slices of bacon into 1 ⁄ 2 in (3.8 cm) pieces and put them in a skillet. Turn the burner on to medium-high and cook the bacon until it turns a little golden. Stir the bacon occasionally to help it cook evenly. The bacon won't become completely crispy because it will continue to cook in the oven. Put the bacon on a paper-towel-lined plate. Turn off the burner and lay a paper towel on a plate. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to the paper towel so it drains a little. For a leaner option, consider using Canadian bacon slices that you don't need to cook. To save time, use pre-cooked bacon crumbles that you can scatter over the pizza. Roll the pizza dough to fit your pizza pan. Sprinkle 1 1/2 tablespoons (15 g) of cornmeal on your work surface and open a 13.8-ounce (391 g) can of refrigerated pizza crust. Use your hands or a rolling pin to roll the dough until it fits your round or rectangular pizza pan or baking sheet. The cornmeal will prevent the dough from sticking to your work surface. Place the dough on the pan along with olive oil and garlic. Transfer the rolled dough to your prepared pizza pan. Then drizzle or brush 1 ⁄ 2 tablespoons (22 ml) of olive oil over the dough and scatter 2 cloves of minced garlic on top. Spread the mozzarella, bacon, and green onions over the pizza. Slice an 8-ounce (226 g) ball of fresh mozzarella into ⁄ 4 inch (0.64 cm) thick slices and lay them on the pizza. Then scatter the bacon and 3 sliced green onions over the pizza. Try to leave 3 gaps that are around 3 inches (7.6 cm) in size so you can add the eggs. Bake the pizza for 10 to 12 minutes. Put the pizza into the preheated oven and cook it until the crust begins to turn golden brown. Keep in mind that the middle of the pizza won't be finished baking. Crack 3 eggs onto the pizza and bake the pizza for 8 to 10 more minutes. Carefully remove the pizza from the oven and leave the oven turned on. Crack 3 eggs directly onto the pizza. Try not to break the yolks. Then put the pizza back in the oven and bake it until the whites are set. The dough will finish baking and become crisp. If you prefer your egg yolks to be fully cooked, bake the pizza for 2 to 3 more minutes. Season the pizza with parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Turn off the oven and remove the pizza. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons (7.5 g) of chopped fresh parsley leaves and 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of crushed red pepper flakes. Then add salt and pepper according to your taste. Slice the pizza and serve it while it's hot. Refrigerate leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. | Preheat the oven to 375 °F (191 °C) and spray a pan with cooking spray. Roll out the dough and place it on the pan. Cook the sausage for 5 to 7 minutes over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion and peppers for 3 to 5 minutes. Scramble the eggs until they're just set. Spread cheese sauce, sausage, vegetables, and eggs over the dough. Scatter the hash browns and cheese on top. Bake the pizza for 20 to 25 minutes. Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C) and grease a pizza pan. Chop the bacon and fry it for 3 to 4 minutes. Put the bacon on a paper-towel-lined plate. Roll the pizza dough to fit your pizza pan. Place the dough on the pan along with olive oil and garlic. Spread the mozzarella, bacon, and green onions over the pizza. Bake the pizza for 10 to 12 minutes. Crack 3 eggs onto the pizza and bake the pizza for 8 to 10 more minutes. Season the pizza with parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Longboard-Skateboard | How to Longboard Skateboard | To try skateboarding on a longboard, start by standing on the board with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Next, push off with your back foot to move forward, then bend slightly at the knees and spread out your arms to help you balance. In order to stop or slow down, take either foot off the board and drag it on the ground. If you want to turn on your longboard, just lean down on the board in the direction you want to turn. | Decide what you are looking for in a board. Are you looking for a board to cruise on around town? To hit the skatepark with? Or are you looking to rip down big hills? Different sized longboards have different advantages and disadvantages. Shorter longboards are more agile (meaning you can turn more) but less stable (meaning it's easier to fall over). Longer boards are more stable but less agile. Beginners should stick with longer boards. Get some protective gear. You may not think it's the coolest way to longboard, but especially when you're practicing, it's a good idea to be padded up. If you're doing more extreme versions of longboarding, getting padded up is essential. For gear, be sure to get: A good-fitting helmet Skateboarding shoes (flat bottomed) Elbow pads (optional) Knee pads (optional) Slide Gloves (depend on the board you have) Figure out if you are goofy or regular. Do you skate with your right foot forward? That's called riding "goofy." Do you skate with your left foot facing forward? That's called regular. To find out whether you ride regular or goofy, have someone shove you from behind with no warning. Whichever foot you put out to catch yourself is the one you want to lead with on the skateboard. If it feels wrong, try switching to the other foot. Another way to find out is to slide on a smooth surface in socks or lay on the ground; whichever foot you use to get up with will be the foot you want to lead with on your longboard. Try riding it around a couple times on a flat surface. Try to feel the smooth flow as it rolls over the concrete. The lower you keep your center of gravity, the better you will feel. Make sure you feel comfortable before moving on. Get the basic stance down. Stand with your feet between the trucks (the bearings that hold the wheels), a little longer than shoulder-width apart. Angle your front foot slightly forward, at about a 45 degree angle. Have your back foot be pretty much sideways, perpendicular to the direction the board is traveling in. This is just one stance that you can use. After getting comfortable with your longboard for a little bit, you very well could find that other stances work better for you. Go with what feels comfortable. Practice balancing on your board by finding a gentle slope and going down it on the longboard. Get the hang of what it feels like to be on a longboard. Use your arms for balance and bend your knees a bit. Balance yourself. If you feel out of control, make sure you focus far in front of you using your peripheral vision to guide you. This will allow your body to naturally gain control or balance. Practice moving yourself forward. Take your back foot off the board and use the ground as something to push off of. You can go for one big push, or several smaller pushes. Try to keep your body loose as you push off; the stiffer your body is, the harder it will be to keep your balance. If you want to use your front foot to push off, give it a try. Most boarders don't do this — it's called "mongo" — but it's more important do ride comfortably than do what other people do. After you get the hang of it, practice generating more speed by doing harder kicks. You'll find that, after you've gotten to a certain speed, one good push will keep you going for quite a while. Practice turning, or carving, on your longboard. You'll need to practice turning on your board if you want to ride around. Turning is quite easy. All you have to do is put pressure down on one side of the board, leaning in that direction, and you'll turn: Heel edge carving: you move your heels downward and you turn to your inside. Heel edge turns for people who ride regular give you left turns. Toe edge carving: you move your toes downward and you turn to your outside. Toe edge turns for people who ride regular give you right turns. Find a way to stop your skateboard or to slow down. Foot-braking, where you drag one foot on the ground, is probably the most reliable way to stop or slow down: you're creating a lot of friction with your foot, thereby slowing the momentum of the board down. Other ways that you can break include: Carving: snaking down the hill by leaning from side to side pushes on your wheels and will help keep speed down. Air braking: at high speeds, simply standing up and putting your arms out can slow you considerably. Practice sliding after you've mastered these concepts. If you ever want to go faster than you can run, save yourself some road rash by learning how to slide. In order to slide, you should either buy slide gloves, or attach squares of cutting board (find it in the supermarket) to work gloves. Once you have your gloves, you're ready to go learn to slide! In order to slide: Point your front foot forward while bending your knees; shift your weight to the front. Slide your back foot off your board, flexing your front knee to make contact with the ground. Apply gradual pressure to stop Try not to use your toes or heel to touch the ground; instead, opt for the middle of your sole. It is also very important you don't put weight on your back foot. Doing that will almost ensure you will slip backwards. Try to keep more weight on the foot you have in front, leaning forwards is much safer than leaning back. Save yourself some road rash and learn to slide with gloves before you get going really fast. Start slow, and work your way up. Rome wasn't built in a day. Don't worry if your board doesn't look like the one in the videos. Everybody has different preferences. Getting comfortable with a board takes time and the techniques work for almost any shape and size board. Hard wheels (durometer of at least 86a) break traction easier, making learning to slide easier. Have fun but be careful. Longboarding is a ton of fun, but pushing it too hard can cause serious injury. You never think it'll be you until it actually happens to you. Be mindful of potentially dangerous situations and prepare accordingly or take yourself out of them before it's too late. That being said, have a blast cruising on your new toy! | Decide what you are looking for in a board. Get some protective gear. Figure out if you are goofy or regular. Try riding it around a couple times on a flat surface. Get the basic stance down. Practice balancing on your board by finding a gentle slope and going down it on the longboard. Balance yourself. Practice moving yourself forward. Practice turning, or carving, on your longboard. Find a way to stop your skateboard or to slow down. Practice sliding after you've mastered these concepts. Save yourself some road rash and learn to slide with gloves before you get going really fast. Don't worry if your board doesn't look like the one in the videos. Have fun but be careful. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-over-Exfoliated-Skin | How to Heal over Exfoliated Skin | If you spot signs of over-exfoliated skin, such as redness, flaking, irritation, or a burning sensation, you can help it heal by pressing a cool, clean washcloth onto your skin for a few minutes. When you wash your face, use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to reduce the risk of further irritation and infection. Then, make sure you pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it to avoid making your skin worse. Once you've dried your face, apply a thick moisturizer to soothe your skin and help it heal. | Detect over-exfoliated skin. If you suspect you applied the wrong strength product, applied too much pressure, or used too many exfoliators at once, look for symptoms of over-exfoliated skin. These may include: Redness Flaking Irritation Burning sensation Apply cool compresses. Gently press a cool, clean washcloth on skin you have over-exfoliated. Hold on your skin for a few minutes or until your skin feels less irritated. Avoid rubbing the washcloth over your face, which can make irritation worse. Repeat doing this as necessary. Press on aloe gel. Gently dab on a thin layer of aloe gel. This can soothe irritation and promote healing of areas you over-exfoliated. Keep the aloe gel in your refrigerator for added cooling and soothing benefits. Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever. Use a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, or NSAID, medication if your over-exfoliated skin causes you pain. NSAIDs can ease your discomfort and may minimize any inflammation on your skin. Follow your doctor's instructions or the dosing recommendations on the packaging. The most common over-the-counter NSAIDs you could use are: Aspirin Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) Use a gentle cleanser. When you wash your face each day, use a gentle and non-foaming cleanser. Use lukewarm or cool water and lightly work the cleanser over your skin. This can minimize the risk of further irritation and clear away bacteria or germs that could cause infection. Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to wash your face. Avoid using anti-aging creams. Avoid products with exfoliants, fragrances, or retinols because they can irritate or exfoliate your skin even more. Allow the skin to heal completely before beginning your new, toned-down exfoliating regimen. Pat your skin dry. Rubbing your skin dry can easily irritate already fragile skin. After you've cleansed your skin, gently pat it dry with a clean towel. This can prevent further irritation. Moisturize your skin. Apply a thick moisturizer to your skin after cleansing. This can calm your skin and promote healing. Avoid creams with fragrance or exfoliating ingredients such as retinoids. These can further irritate and exfoliate your skin. Dab on a hydrocortisone cream. Put a 1% hydrocortisone cream on top of moisturizer twice a day. Focus the cream on irritated areas for up to two weeks. Hydrocortisone cream can ease irritation and inflammation. It can also get out any red on your skin and provide a barrier from bacteria or germs. Consider a vitamin C cream. Use a mild vitamin C cream instead of hydrocortisone if you prefer something more natural. At a concentration of about 5%, vitamin C cream may soothe your skin and help it heal faster. Avoid exposing any area with vitamin C cream to the sun. Vitamin C creams and lotions can make you especially sensitive to the sun. Covering yourself up can protect you from sunburn and further irritation and inflammation. Layer on vitamin E oil. Gently apply a thin layer of vitamin E oil on your over-exfoliated skin. This can keep your skin moisturized, soothe any discomfort, and promote healing. Avoid the sun or wear sun protection. If you've over-exfoliated, you took off not only dead skin cells, but new ones as well. This can expose delicate, new skin that is prone to sunburns. Protect your skin and promote healing by staying out of the sun if possible. Wear sunscreen or sunblock even if you're just running errands. This can minimize the risk of sunburn, further inflammation and irritation, and hindering the healing process. Go au-natural. Wait a few days to a week to return to your normal skincare and makeup routine. This gives your over-exfoliated skin time to heal completely before you apply anything with chemicals on it. It can also minimize irritation and speed up the healing process. See a dermatologist. If you notice your irritation worsening or it won't go away after a week, make an appointment with your dermatologist. They can determine if you have severe damage or an infection on your skin. Depending on their exam, you may receive a prescription for a stronger cortisone cream or a prescription barrier repair cream. | Detect over-exfoliated skin. Apply cool compresses. Press on aloe gel. Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever. Use a gentle cleanser. Pat your skin dry. Moisturize your skin. Dab on a hydrocortisone cream. Consider a vitamin C cream. Layer on vitamin E oil. Avoid the sun or wear sun protection. Go au-natural. See a dermatologist. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Rusted-Screws | How to Remove Rusted Screws | To remove rusted screws, start by rapidly hitting the screw head with a hammer to break the rust seal. Then, spray a rust penetrant onto the screw and leave it for about 15 minutes. Once the penetrant has had a chance to soak in, give the screw a few more hits with your hammer to loosen the rust further and try to unscrew it. If the screw still won't move, create a gripping paste by mixing a teaspoon of any powdered bathroom or kitchen cleanser with 3 drops of warm water. Spread the paste over the screw head with a rag and try to unscrew it again. | Wear thick leather gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself. Keep the gloves on throughout the process in case you slip and hit your hands. It will mitigate at least some of the damage. Also, rusted metal can break and splinter, so wearing polycarbonate glasses or goggles is a must. Strike the screw a few times with a metal hammer. Square up the hammer so it is directly over the screw's head. Rapidly hit the head a few times to break the rust seal holding the screw in place. Use some force if you can, enough to jar the screw while still maintaining your accuracy. Keep your other hand clear from the area in case the hammer misses the screw head. Soak the screw in rust penetrant for 15 minutes. Commercial rust penetrant often comes in a spray bottle, so all you need to do is point the nozzle and shoot. Spray a lot of penetrant around the screw's head. This should lubricate the head as well as allow penetrant to drip down into the screw's shaft. You can purchase rust penetrant at most hardware and general stores. If you don't have rust penetrant on hand, you can mix your own by combining equal amounts of acetone and transmission fluid. Regular WD-40 can help, but it isn't as effective as specialty rust penetrants. Hit the screw a few times and tap around the head. Give the screw a few more solid whacks with your hammer to loosen the rust further. Afterwards, lightly hit the side of the screw head. Do this all the way around the head to prepare the screw for removal. Hitting the screw with an impact driver and hammer may also help break up any remaining rust. Remove the screw with a screwdriver. Use the correct type of screwdriver for the job, such as a Phillips head screwdriver for those screws with +-shaped slots. Turn the screw counterclockwise to remove it, but stop if you experience problems like the screwdriver beginning to strip the screw. You can end up making the removal more difficult if you keep going. Stop turning the screw if you feel like you can't keep the screwdriver in the screw head. The screwdriver may even slip out. This happens when the screwdriver begins stripping the screw. Create a gripping paste with water and cleanser for stuck screws. The gripping paste will help you keep your screwdriver in place without damaging the screw. First, place 1 teaspoon, or.17 oz (4.8 g), of a powdered cleanser in a mixing bowl. Add about 3 drops of room temperature water, then stir the mixture into a paste. Spread the paste over the screw head with a rag. You can use a regular kitchen or bathroom cleanser. You may already have some on hand. If you don't want to mix your own paste, you can apply automotive valve grinding compound to the screw head instead. Attempt to remove the screw again with a screwdriver. Push the screwdriver through the paste and into the screw head. Twist the screw counterclockwise again while continuing to push down. The force may finally break through the rust, freeing the screw. If this doesn't work, you can generate more force by turning the screw with a box-end wrench. Hold the screw in place with the screwdriver. Wipe the screw off with a water-based degreaser. Cleaning the screw is especially important after attempting to remove it through other methods. Heat can cause rust penetrant and other chemicals to catch fire. To prevent this, dampen a rag with the degreaser, then wipe down as much of the screw as possible. You can buy degreaser at a home improvement store, or you can make your own with vinegar or baking soda. Be sure to dispose of oily rags properly. Leave them to dry on a non-flammable surface out of direct sunlight. Throw them in the trash after they harden. Wear leather gloves and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Take full safety precautions to minimize the risk of accidents from using heat. A good pair of thick gloves can protect your hands from burns, while the extinguisher can prevent sudden fires from turning into a serious emergency. Wait to put the gloves on until after you clean the screw. This way, you won't get any potentially hazardous degreaser on a good pair of gloves. Even if you are sure you wiped away all of the flammable chemicals, keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case. Heat the screw with a gas torch until it smokes. Although a cigarette lighter may do the trick, you get better control by using a torch. Any butane or propane gas torch is safe to use for this project. Light the torch, then lower the tip of the flame to the screw's head. Wait for the screw to emit steam and smoke. To avoid overheating the screw, keep the torch back so only the tip of the flame touches the screw. If the screw starts turning a cherry red color, move the flame away. You never want it to get this hot. Soak the screw immediately with cold water. If you have a garden hose on hand, you can spray the screw until it is cold again. Otherwise, soak it by pouring water from a bucket or by wiping it with a wet rag. Wait until you can no longer feel heat radiating from the screw. Heating the screw causes it to expand, while cooling it causes it to contract. Doing this rapidly increases the chances of the rust seal breaking. Repeat heating and cooling the screw 2 or 3 times. While you can try removing the screw right away, you usually need a few heat cycles to free stubborn screws. Use the torch to heat the screw head, then immediately douse it in cold water. If you find that you cannot remove the screw later, you can always try heating and cooling it again. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw. Choose a screwdriver that matches the screw's head. If you do this after cutting a slot into the screw, you will need to use a flat blade screwdriver. Twist the screw counterclockwise to loosen it. Make sure the screw is completely cool to the touch. You can test it by holding your hand over it. If you feel heat coming from it, add cold water. Apply rust penetrant if the screw is still stuck. Pour a generous amount of penetrant over the screw head. As it drips down the screw's sides, turn the screw back and forth to help spread the penetrant. Finally you should be able to free the screw with the screwdriver. You may need to apply penetrant a few times before the screw comes free. Keep twisting the screw back and forth so the penetrant soaks in. Wear heavy leather gloves and protective goggles. Keep the gloves on at all times to protect your hands. They will protect you in case any of the tools slip when in use. Also, put on polycarbonate protective glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from metal fragments. Place a cutting wheel on a rotary tool. Rotary tools have detachable heads. You can swap out the heads with 1 of many different accessories. For cutting screws, you want a flat wheel designed to cut through metal. Fit it onto the rotary tool according to the manufacturer's instructions. Test the wheel by turning on the rotary tool. The wheel should spin freely at a consistent speed. Cut a slot the size of your largest screwdriver into the screw head. Keep your biggest flat blade screwdriver nearby to use as a point of comparison. Tip the rotary tool so the edge of the wheel is over the screw head. Lower the tool down to begin cutting into the screw. Work slowly and carefully to widen the cut to the size you need. An ideal slot creates a tight fit for the screwdriver so you can turn the screw with maximum force. Use the screwdriver to remove the screw. Push the screwdriver head into the slot you made. Continue pushing down on the screw as you begin turning it counterclockwise. If the slot is effective, the screw will loosen and pop out. If the slot is too small, you can widen it with the rotary tool. If the slot is too big, you may not be able to remove the screw this way unless you can find a larger screwdriver. Some screws will still be rusted in place even after you cut a perfect slot. Use heat to remove them. | Wear thick leather gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself. Strike the screw a few times with a metal hammer. Soak the screw in rust penetrant for 15 minutes. Hit the screw a few times and tap around the head. Remove the screw with a screwdriver. Create a gripping paste with water and cleanser for stuck screws. Attempt to remove the screw again with a screwdriver. Wipe the screw off with a water-based degreaser. Wear leather gloves and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Heat the screw with a gas torch until it smokes. Soak the screw immediately with cold water. Repeat heating and cooling the screw 2 or 3 times. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw. Apply rust penetrant if the screw is still stuck. Wear heavy leather gloves and protective goggles. Place a cutting wheel on a rotary tool. Cut a slot the size of your largest screwdriver into the screw head. Use the screwdriver to remove the screw. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Read-Greens | How to Read Greens | If you want to improve your golf game by reading greens, take some time before putting to view the green's slope. Imagine a line tracing how the ball will roll into the hole after you hit it, and consider how any slopes will affect your ball's trajectory. For example, aim slightly to the left when you putt if a slope forces your ball curve right. To better envision your stroke, take a few practice swings and imagine the ball rolling along the path you chose. If you're still having a hard time getting a read, take your time and ask a friend, caddie, or teacher for a second opinion. After all, even professional golfers ask their caddies for help! | Gauge the green’s flatness to determine how to putt the ball to the hole. Reading a green is about anticipating how your golf ball will move from your putter to the hole. No green is perfectly flat, so you always need to take a close look at the slope to do this. Any hills or divots will also change the speed of your ball and, sometimes, its trajectory. You can't always putt along the flattest part of the green. Most times, you need to hit the ball along the green's slope in order to curve the ball towards the hole. The route your ball takes from the putter to the green is called a line. Always take time to read the green's slope before determining your line. Stand behind the hole to determine the slope around it. The read you get while behind the hole is often the most important one. Crouch down if you need to do so in order to get a closer look. Then, look back up towards your ball. Note how the green looks from this perspective, paying attention in particular to how the slope changes a few steps from the hole. To visualize the read, imagine pouring water into the hole. Ask yourself which way the water would spill out if it were to overflow. You expect the water to spill out towards the lower end of a slope. The last stretch of green before the hole has the most impact on your ball. The ball rolls at such a slow speed that the green's slope has more of a pull on it. Walk along the lower side of the hole as you return to your ball. Once you have identified which part of the green is lowest, you know which way your ball will roll after you hit it. Stroll back to your ball, taking plenty of time to examine how the green changes. Any subtle changes, such as slope increases, have an effect on how your ball moves. If you are uncertain of a particular spot you need to hit through, crouch! Get a close look at the grass. Note any uneven spots that can drag your ball away from the hole. Check the perspective around the ball to improve your read. Get multiple reads until you have a good feel for the green. Try walking to the higher side of the green and imagining how you want to hit the ball. If you still aren't sure, walk back to the midpoint between the ball and hole. You should have a pretty good idea of how the ball will move on the green. Keep looking at the green from different angles until you feel confident about your read. When you're standing between the ball and cup, take a few practice swings until you feel comfortable with the read. Stand over the ball to analyze the ground around it. Return to your ball, taking care to avoid any penalties from disturbing it. Look down and notice if the ball is higher or lower than your feet. This should give you a little extra information about how the ball will behave. Fine-tune your approach to compensate for the slope near your ball. For example, if your right foot is higher than the bottom of the ball, the ball will roll towards your left foot. You can adjust your stroke by hitting the ball towards your right foot. Squat behind the ball to finalize your read. Complete your read with a worm's-eye view of the ball's path to the hole. After all, no one can be more familiar with the intricacies of a green than someone who sees it up close. Examine the ball's path to the green to make any final adjustments to your approach. To visualize the ball's path, imagine what it will do if you hit it straight at the hole. From analyzing the green from so many angles, you should be able to figure out where the ball would go. Take your time when reading greens. Getting a good read can seem like a slow process, especially when you're starting out. However, rushing is a fast pass to a 2-putt or even a dreaded 3-putt. Wait until you feel confident with your read and comfortable taking the putt. You may feel rushed when other golfers are waiting for you. Remember to tune this out and let the golf course be a peaceful place to enjoy hitting a small, dimpled ball. Once you get used to reading greens, you can often do it within 30 to 60 seconds, but don't despair if you need extra time. Ask someone else for a second opinion if possible. Even the best professional golfers turn to their caddies from time to time. Get the opinion of a caddie, friend, partner, or teacher. They should go through a similar process as you, studying the green from different angles before offering their advice. In some circumstances, such as during a competitive round, you may not get a chance to ask anyone unless you have a caddie. Take extra time to get comfortable with your read. Remember that an opinion is nothing more than an opinion. If you still think you're right, stick with your initial read. Avoid overthinking your read. While you should take as much time as you need to read a green, you shouldn't ever doubt your read. Having a clear, confident image of the ball's trajectory is important when hitting it. If you have any doubt, you may end up altering your swing and getting yourself into trouble with a poor putt. Stick to your instincts. Your first read is usually the best, unless you have good evidence that your read was wrong. Envision a line tracing how the ball will roll to the hole. Use this line to calculate how the slope of the green will affect the ball's movement after you hit it. The line should move towards the higher side of the green, then head to the hole where you think the ball will break back towards the hole. Seeing the line can help you hit the ball with confidence. Imagining a clear line can take some practice. At first, you may not be able to hit the ball exactly along your line. Master your putting technique as you get more confident reading greens. Adjust your aim according to the slope. Once you have read the green, stand near the ball and imagine where you will hit it. The slope is the most integral influence on the ball's movement. You will need to hit the ball towards the slope so it rolls back down towards the hole. Position yourself to hit the ball in this direction. For instance, if the green slopes down to the right, aim to the left to let the ball roll downhill towards the cup. Hit the ball harder for high-grain grasses. Bermuda grass is known to play slower than regular grass, which means you need to hit the ball harder to get it to the cup. Bermuda grass often has a stronger grain than regular grass. To see the grain, look at the tips of the grass blades and notice which way they are pointing. If the blades point towards your ball, they will resist it and slow down its movement. With slower greens, you may wish to get a second read to make sure your approach is right. Putt softer on fast or bumpy greens. If you notice that the green looks uneven, you probably need to hit the ball a little lighter than usual in order to avoid overshooting the hole. You may notice bumps or other rough patches when you crouch down to analyze the green closely. Fast greens are another problem that require you to slow your ball. To know if a green is fast, watch how others hit their balls. You will also know by putting on greens at other holes on the course. On fast greens, the ball faces less resistance than usual and rolls faster. Take a few practice strokes beside the ball. Make practice strokes a part of the routine you go through before taking any shot. It gives you a final chance to look from your ball to the hole. Picture the ball rolling along the line you chose. Then, loosen up before taking your actual shot. Hit the ball firmly towards the hole. Shake out your arms to loosen yourself up if you need to. Keep a firm grip on your putter, take a deep breath, and hit cleanly through the ball. Avoid stopping your swing short, or else your ball will end up short of the hole. Trust in your read and hit well to sink that ball! Aim your club towards your target, which is where you want to hit the ball. The target is the part of the green that will cause the ball to roll down into the hole. | Gauge the green’s flatness to determine how to putt the ball to the hole. Stand behind the hole to determine the slope around it. Walk along the lower side of the hole as you return to your ball. Check the perspective around the ball to improve your read. Stand over the ball to analyze the ground around it. Squat behind the ball to finalize your read. Take your time when reading greens. Ask someone else for a second opinion if possible. Avoid overthinking your read. Envision a line tracing how the ball will roll to the hole. Adjust your aim according to the slope. Hit the ball harder for high-grain grasses. Putt softer on fast or bumpy greens. Take a few practice strokes beside the ball. Hit the ball firmly towards the hole. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Weld-Aluminum | How to Weld Aluminum | To weld aluminum, clamp the aluminum pieces together tightly and use a propane torch to preheat them to a temperature between 300°F and 400°F. Then, set the amperage of your welder, aim at the aluminum pieces, and press the button on the torch. Melt the aluminum until you create a small puddle, then slowly push the puddle down the joint, adding filler as you go. Be sure to move at an even pace to keep the puddle a consistent size! | Get a TIG (tungsten inert gas) welder with AC capability, not only DC. This is a type of welder that uses a tungsten electrode and an inert gas to shield the welding area. The precision achieved with this type of welder is crucial when working with aluminum, especially thin pieces. TIG welders are expensive, so consider contacting a local welding supply store or home hardware outlet about rental possibilities. It's possible to weld aluminum with other welding processes, such as MIG welding , but TIG welding is the method most suitable for beginners. Acquire an aluminum filler rod. This tool is needed in order to bond the 2 pieces. Try to avoid using rusty or dirty filler rods, as these will lead to weaker welds. You can find aluminum filler rods at hardware or home improvement stores, such as Harbor Freight or Home Depot. Opt for either a 4043 or 5356 alloy. Use a filler rod that is equal in size to the tungsten electrode. Get a canister of argon gas. Argon's purpose in the welding process is to shield. Pure argon is a cost-effective gas solution. 3% helium can be added to increase arc stability. Gas needs to be acquired from authorized gas dealers. Most welding supply stores will be able to provide gas or refer you to an outlet that can. If you're renting the TIG welder, purchase your argon canister when you pick up the welder. Wear protective clothing. Wear a shirt with long sleeves made from a thick fabric. TIG welding produces a large amount of ultraviolet radiation. Because of this, you will get burns along your arms if you weld in short sleeves. Try to find a shirt that is made of 100% cotton. Make sure that your pants do not have cuffs that can catch molten metal. Use safety equipment. Make sure to wear a heavy welding helmet, a thick pair of gloves, and a respirator to protect yourself while welding. This equipment will protect you from intense light, radiation, chemical burns, fumes, oxides, electric shock, and more. Your welding gloves should be insulated and fire-resistant. Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible in case of any stray sparks. Try to use a helmet with a lens that automatically darkens during the welding process. The lens should be rated at 10-13 shade. Do a safety check on all your equipment. Using damaged, broken, or improperly set-up welding equipment can be very dangerous. A quick safety check can prevent injury or even save your life. Before you get started, take a few moments to: Double check all hoses and connections. Check for and replace any cracked or corroded parts. Replace any dented or rusted tanks. Check your wires and cords and fix any that are frayed or nicked. Clean the aluminum. Over time, aluminum forms a thin coat of aluminum oxide on its exterior, which melts at a much higher temperature than aluminum. So, before welding any piece of aluminum, you have to clean away the aluminum oxide. Do this mechanically by wire-brushing, grinding, or filing away the oxides. If you use wire brushes to clean the aluminum, make sure to use brushes that are new or have only been used to clean aluminum. Brushes that have been used to clean other metals may leave traces of those metals behind, which can affect the quality of your weld. Spray the joints with electrical cleaner. Rinse the work piece in water, and then allow it to dry thoroughly. Scrub the aluminum with a stainless steel wool scrubber, such as a Scotch Brite scrubbing pad, to finish the cleaning process. Clean the filler rod. A dirty filler rod can contaminate the weld just as easily as a dirty work piece. Use an abrasive cleaning pad and some acetone to ensure that the rod is contaminant free. Clamp the workpieces together as tightly as possible. TIG welders will be unforgiving if the joint is not fitted very tightly; you may be left with gaps in the joint. Make the work pieces fit together as tightly as possible by filing them before clamping them together with clamps or vise grips. If you can, suspend the area you will be welding above the table. This will make the heat transfer more effective and create better weld penetration. Consider clamping the workpiece to a heat sink, such as copper. This will ensure that the heat from the weld will transfer safely without warping your work or damaging anything else in your workspace. Preheat the aluminum workpiece. Aluminum is much easier to weld when the work is already much hotter than room temperature. You can heat the workpiece by putting it directly in an oven, or you can use a propane torch to apply heat to the surface. Aim for a temperature between 300°F and 400°F (149-204°C). When welding thick pieces of aluminum, welding without preheating can lead to a very weak, shallow bond. Work in a safe, ventilated, cool environment. As you get ready to start welding, first make sure there's a fire extinguisher nearby in case a fire starts during the welding process. It's also important to work in a space below 77° Fahrenheit (25° Celsius) that has good airflow in order to prevent heat stress and/or inhalation of dangerous fumes. You can also ensure protection from fumes by using welding fume extractor machines. Brace the torch with your hand. For practice, keep the torch unlit to save metal. While placing the base of your gloved hand on the table for support, hold the torch at a slight angle, tilting back about 10°. Hold the tip of the tungsten about ¼ inch (6.4 mm) away from the aluminum. If you pull the tip too far away, it will cause the arc to spread too much and the weld will become difficult to control. Hold the filler at a 90° angle. You will lead the weld with the filler rod, which should be held at about a 90° angle to the torch tip. The torch should always be pushed and not dragged. If the filler and the tip come into contact, your weld will be contaminated and lose structural integrity. Move the torch along the welding path. With the torch in proper position, practice moving your hand along the part of the aluminum that you will be welding. Practice with gloves on to simulate the amount of effort required. Make sure to move your entire hand, as getting in the habit of using just your fingers is very limiting. Set the amperage of your welder. Aim to use about 1 amp per 0.001 inch (0.025 mm) of the workpiece's thickness. It is a good idea to set the welder's amperage to higher than you expect to need and then tone the current back with the foot pedal. If you don't have a lot of experience with welding, practice with some scrap aluminum and try different settings until you find what works best for you. Getting the settings right can make a big difference in the quality of your weld, and environmental factors can affect which setting works best. Get your tools and workpiece into position. Begin by extending the tungsten electrode no more than the diameter of the torch's nozzle. For example, if you are using a ¼ inch (6.4 mm) wide nozzle, your tungsten tip should extend no more than ¼ inch (6.4 mm) from the nozzle. Tap the electrode tip against the workpiece and then pull it away about ⅛ inch (3 mm). Press the button on the torch. If there's a button that you can press on the torch, then this is how you should create your electrical arc. Pressing this button activates the high frequency start feature because it's connected to a cable that is connected to the TIG welding power supply. This is the simplest, easiest way to create the arc. Use the foot pedal. If you don't see a button on the torch, you'll need to create an arc with the foot pedal. Press the pedal at least halfway down in order to create the arc. If you're having trouble starting the arc, your amperage is likely too low. Adjust your amperage setting and try again. Create the puddle. Melt the workpiece until you create an adequately-sized puddle that's no wider than double the diameter of your filler. Add just enough of the filler rod to fill in the joint, and then move to the next portion of the weld. Continue until the entire joint is welded properly. As you weld, heat will increase throughout the workpiece. Use your foot pedal to lower the amperage as you go to maintain control of the puddle. While you weld, pay close attention to your puddle size. If it's too big or too small, you may burn through your material or not get a solid weld. Add a little extra filler rod at the beginning of the weld. Weld for about ¼ inch (6.35 mm), then stop and let things cool for a few seconds. After your weld has had a moment to cool, restart the weld. Having a little extra metal at the start of the weld will make your weld stronger and prevent cracking. Push the puddle. Slowly push the puddle that the torch creates down the joint, adding filler as you go. Move at an even pace to keep the puddle a consistent size. Let off the foot pedal and release the button on the torch. Once you've finished your weld, stop the arc by slowly taking your foot off of the pedal. Then take your finger off of the button that's on the torch. Give the metal plenty of time to cool before you touch the finished product. | Get a TIG (tungsten inert gas) welder with AC capability, not only DC. Acquire an aluminum filler rod. Get a canister of argon gas. Wear protective clothing. Use safety equipment. Do a safety check on all your equipment. Clean the aluminum. Clean the filler rod. Clamp the workpieces together as tightly as possible. Preheat the aluminum workpiece. Work in a safe, ventilated, cool environment. Brace the torch with your hand. Hold the filler at a 90° angle. Move the torch along the welding path. Set the amperage of your welder. Get your tools and workpiece into position. Press the button on the torch. Use the foot pedal. Create the puddle. Add a little extra filler rod at the beginning of the weld. Push the puddle. Let off the foot pedal and release the button on the torch. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Paid-Through-PayPal | How to Get Paid Through PayPal | To get paid through PayPal using the PayPal app, start by opening the app and logging into your PayPal account. Next, tap Request Money and Let's Get Started. Then, tap Access Contacts and either tap a name that's already logged in your contacts or add a new name and their email address. Finally, type in the amount you want to be paid, tap Next, and tap "Request Now" to send the person a payment request. | Open the "PayPal" app. If you aren't already logged in, do so with your PayPal email address and password. Tap Request Money. Tap Let's get started. Tap Access Contacts. You may have to authorize PayPal by tapping OK to do this. Type in a name, email address, or phone number. You can also tap a contact's name. Type in your preferred amount. Tap Next. Tap Request Now. You can also add a note from here if you please. Wait for your recipient to pay you. You have successfully requested money through PayPal! Open the PayPal website. If you haven't done so already, log into PayPal with your user email address and password. Click Send & Request. This is at the top of the PayPal page. Click Grab Your Link Now. You'll find this under the "Get paid back" heading at the bottom of the page. Type in your preferred link name. Click Grab My Link. Customize your PayPal profile. You can add the following to your link: A picture A custom color palette Differentiation between "Friends & family" and "Goods & services" Click Create Your PayPalMe. Click Copy. Send your PayPal link to a contact. You can do this in whichever medium you prefer--email, text message, instant message, and so on. Wait for your contact to pay you. Now you know how to get paid through PayPal! | Open the "PayPal" app. Tap Request Money. Tap Let's get started. Tap Access Contacts. Type in a name, email address, or phone number. Type in your preferred amount. Tap Next. Tap Request Now. Wait for your recipient to pay you. Open the PayPal website. Click Send & Request. Click Grab Your Link Now. Type in your preferred link name. Click Grab My Link. Customize your PayPal profile. Click Create Your PayPalMe. Click Copy. Send your PayPal link to a contact. Wait for your contact to pay you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dye-a-Leather-Couch | How to Dye a Leather Couch | If you want to give your leather couch a fresh dye job, you'll need to first clean it and remove any glaze or surface treatment. Put the couch in a well-ventilated area and wipe it down with soapy water, then rub the surface with a rag soaked in deglazer or acetone. Protect the legs and any other parts you don't want to dye with painter's tape. Once you're ready to dye the couch, spritz a small section of the leather with water. This will help the leather absorb the dye more easily. Pour 1 or 2 drops of leather dye onto a clean sponge or wool dauber, then spread the dye over the dampened section of leather using long, parallel strokes. Move from one section of the couch to another, and always spray a little water on before applying the dye. Let the couch dry for 1 hour, then repeat the process 2 to 5 times. After the last coat is dry, spray on some finisher to seal in the color and rub it in with a dry rag. | Carry the leather couch to a well-ventilated workspace. You will be working with chemicals that you should avoid breathing in. A basement, garage or outdoor driveway will provide a good place to work and keep chemical fumes out of your living space. You can also wear a mask to avoid breathing in fumes. If you must work in your living space, open as many windows and doors as possible and run a fan to ventilate the space. Place the couch on top of drop cloths and take off any cushions. Use a drop cloth to protect the surface or floor you are working on. Leather dye can stain many surfaces, so make sure your floor is covered before you begin. It's best to dye cushions separately from the couch itself, also over a drop cloth. You can also use old clothes or rags if they completely cover the space under your couch. Clean the entire couch with soapy water. Remove any dust or dirt that is on the leather using a cloth and soapy water. Use a mild detergent. Do not soak the couch, as this can warp the leather. Lightly rub it with a cloth that you dip in the water and wring out. You can try to get any stains out of your leather at this point. If they are light, the dye will probably cover them up. However, dark, noticeable stains might make your final dye job look uneven. White vinegar or rubbing alcohol can get rid of most stains. Protect any wood or hardware with painter's tape. If there is any part of your couch that you do not want to dye, such as wooden or metal hardware, cover it with painter's tape. Place the tape as close to the edge of the leather as possible. If you need to, cut the painter's tape to a smaller size to make it fit in any small nooks and crannies. Deglaze the leather using a deglazer or acetone. Most leather furniture will have a protective coating to seal in dye and protect the leather. You can remove this, along with any lingering oils, by using a clean rag to rub deglazer or acetone into the surface of the couch. It will evaporate almost immediately, leaving your leather clean and ready to dye. Some of the original dye may rub off of the leather as you deglaze it. You can buy leather deglazer online or at most hardware stores. Use acetone (not nail polish remover) for a less expensive but equally effective solution. Avoid using products with alcohol or mineral spirits, as these will dry out the leather. Purchase leather dye in the color you want your couch to be. You can find leather dye at a specialty leather shop, at some craft stores, or online. You can easily dye a light leather to look darker, but making a dark leather couch look lighter is more difficult. Avoid dying a black or very dark couch a light color. For medium dark colors, expect to apply more layers of dye. Combine colors if you can't find a dye in the exact shade you are looking for. For example, if you want a dark brown but the brown dye seems too light, mix a little black die into it. Use white dye to get a lighter color. Spray a small section of the leather couch, about the size of your hand, with a water bottle. Getting the leather slightly wet will help it absorb the dye. Start by spraying a small section of the leather, because you will dye it in small sections. Avoid completely soaking the leather because this can cause it to stain or warp. If the leather is unevenly wet, it will absorb the dye unevenly. Apply the dye in a thin coat to small sections at a time. Some leather dyes come with wool daubers you can use to apply them. You can also use a new sponge, which works well to spread the dye evenly. Place a drop or two of dye on a wool dauber or sponge and spread it over the leather using parallel strokes, making sure to get all the nooks and crannies. A little bit of dye goes a long way, so don't use more than a few drops at a time, or the dye will drip and run down your furniture. Work in small sections at a time. For instance, do each arm, then each cushion, then divide the top and back into small, equal sections. Be sure to spritz each area with water before applying the dye. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the dye. Don't worry about trying to get an even dye job on the first coat. Any streaks or unevenness will be less visible as you apply more coats. Let the color dry for 1 hour and then apply 2-5 additional coats. You don't need to dampen the leather with water again after doing the first coat. Apply as many coats as you need to get the color you are looking for. Most leather couches will need between 3 and 6 coats total. Let each coat dry completely before applying another. If you are attempting to dye a dark couch lighter, you might need to apply more coats. If you apply too much dye, it will look metallic or too shiny. To remove excess dye, soak a rag in rubbing alcohol and run it over the affected area. Keep in mind that no matter how careful you are, hand dying leather will result in a slightly uneven look. If the dye is significantly darker in one spot, use rubbing alcohol to take off some of the excess dye. Apply a finisher to the leather once the last coat of dye is dry. Finisher will seal in the dye and protect it from fading. Give your couch at least 1 hour to dry completely after applying the final coat of dye. Spray the finisher on the leather couch and rub it in with a damp, clean rag. Use long strokes to evenly coat the surface of the leather with finisher. Finishers usually dry in about 3 hours. You can move the couch back into your living space and start using it again once the finisher is dry. Leather finisher can be purchased wherever you buy leather dye. It may also be called leather top coat. Choose a glossy finish for more shine or satin finish for a more matte result. | Carry the leather couch to a well-ventilated workspace. Place the couch on top of drop cloths and take off any cushions. Clean the entire couch with soapy water. Protect any wood or hardware with painter's tape. Deglaze the leather using a deglazer or acetone. Purchase leather dye in the color you want your couch to be. Spray a small section of the leather couch, about the size of your hand, with a water bottle. Apply the dye in a thin coat to small sections at a time. Let the color dry for 1 hour and then apply 2-5 additional coats. Apply a finisher to the leather once the last coat of dye is dry. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Your-Period | How to Deal With Your Period | If you're struggling to deal with your period, take steps to reduce the pain and take care of your physical health needs. Drink plenty of water and other fluids, since staying hydrated will help you manage bloat and stomach pain. You can also take over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to manage cramps. It's normal to feel tired during your period, which can also reduce your pain threshold, so try to sleep at least 8 hours a night and take a nap during the day if you need to. Remember to change your pads or tampons every 3 to 4 hours, since leaving them for longer can result in medical problems. If you're going to be away from home for most of the day, take a period kit with you that has all of the supplies you'll need, such as new pads or tampons. | Reframe your mindset about your period. Many women dread the arrival of their period and think of it as something they have to suffer through. During your menstrual cycle, the actual hormones in your brain change and can affect your mood, but you can also consciously change the way you think about your period. It can be empowering to think of your period as a symbol of your womanhood and as natural part of your life. Your first period, called menarche, is often celebrated as a young girl's entrance into womanhood. When you realize that your period can be something that is celebrated, you might stop dreading its arrival and cope with it. Keep track of your period. Tracking your menstrual cycle will not only give you a heads-up when your period is due, but it can also help you know when you are fertile and can get pregnant. Getting your period unexpectedly can leave you feeling unprepared and stressed. You can keep track of the day your period starts and end with a calendar, in a journal, or with an app for your mobile devices. There are several apps, such as Strawberry Pal or Clue, that can help you track your period and set reminders for when your next cycle is about to start. Remember that during your first year, periods are often unpredictable and come at random. They can also skip. This is completely normal. However, after the first year, your period should begin to follow a more regular pattern and be easier to track. Menstrual cycles vary between women. They can last anywhere from 21 to 35 days, and your period may last two to seven days. Your period may be regular and occur at the same time each month, or it may be irregular. Keeping track of your period is very important when you are sexually active. It helps you to determine when you are the most fertile, which is important to know whether you want to avoid pregnancy or when you want to become pregnant. Keep feminine hygiene products with you at all times. Keep an extra tampon, panty liner, or pad in your purse, backpack, and car. This way, if you get your period and you do not have access to other feminine products you are still protected. This is especially important if your periods are irregular and you are not able to accurately predict when your next period will begin. You should also keep a dollar in quarters with you, just in case you are caught off guard and need to purchase a pad/tampon. It's a good idea to keep a few extra feminine hygiene products with you so you can offer one to another woman if she needs one. Eat iron-rich foods. During ovulation, which happens 12 to 16 days before your period begins, your body is preparing for a potential pregnancy. Your body releases two different hormones, progesterone and estrogen, which tell your body that it should prepare for pregnancy. Your metabolism speeds up during this time so you'll need to eat more calories than you usually do. Eat plenty of iron-rich foods to help offset the iron that you'll lose right before and during your period. Meat, beans, lentils, eggs, and dark leafy greens are all good sources of iron. You should continue to eat iron-rich foods during your period. This can help to relieve some period symptoms, like fatigue and cramping. Vitamin C can improve your body's absorption of iron. Try to eat foods rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges, peppers, and kale, as well. Stay hydrated. Many women feel bloated and uncomfortable during their period. You can help offset bloating by drinking lots of fluids. Try to limit the amount of caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks that you consume. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is a good way to help alleviate bloat. Take pain medication. Many women experience some level of pain during their periods. Usually, this pain is related to cramping as the uterine wall contracts. You can take over the counter pain medications, like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin to help manage your pain. These medications can be found at any drug store, and you should follow the manufacturer's recommendation for dosages. Talk to your physician if over the counter painkillers do not work and you continue to have severe pain during cramps. Use heat to soothe cramps. Heat helps to relax the muscles in your abdomen when you have cramps. You can take a heating pad or a hot water bottle and place it over your stomach where the pain is, or take a warm bubble bath or shower. Massaging your lower abdomen in light, circular motions may also help to soothe pain. Adjust your diet. During your period, you may find that you are craving different foods. Unfortunately, salty, sugary, and processed foods can make cramping more painful. The foods you eat should be nutritious and give you energy throughout the day. You may be craving a certain treat, like chocolate or ice cream, and it's okay to give into that craving and have some, as long as it is in moderation. Foods high in potassium, like bananas and leafy greens, can help alleviate bloating naturally. Eat plenty of foods that are rich in calcium, like beans, almonds, and dairy. Manage nausea. Many women feel nauseous during their periods, which can be very uncomfortable. Changes in your hormone levels can lead to gastrointestinal distress, or you may feel nauseous as a result of pain from cramps or headaches. While you may have lost your appetite, try to eat bland foods like white rice, apples, and toast, that will settle your stomach. Ginger, either in teas, supplements, or in its root form, is a natural way to relieve nausea as well. Treat your nausea with over the counter medications, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen or ibuprofen. These can help period-related nausea by preventing the production of a hormone called prostaglandins, which may be the cause of your nausea. Engage in physical activity. Exercise is a great way to naturally manage your pain. When you exercise your body releases mood-boosting endorphins, which can alleviate pain and keep your mind off your period-related discomfort. You may want to do a less strenuous workout than your normal routine if you have pain. Light exercise that warms up your core, like yoga, can also help to minimize bloating. Feel free to skip the gym if you really aren't feeling up for it. While exercising can help you manage your symptoms, you don't need to force yourself to exercise. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms are unmanageable. While some pain and discomfort are normal during your period, you may need to consult your doctor if your symptoms are unmanageable. You can talk to your primary care physician or your gynecologist about these issues, and they may recommend that you see a specialist. They might be able to prescribe pain medication, make recommendations to change your lifestyle, or suggest you take oral contraceptives. You should see your doctor you are spotting in between periods, you have a very heavy flow, very painful cramps or if your flow lasts more than 10 days. Get plenty of rest. During your period, you may feel more tired than you normally do. Pain and discomfort from cramps and bloating can make it more difficult to sleep, while fatigue actually lowers your pain tolerance. Try to sleep at least eight hour during the night and take a nap during the day if you need to. Light exercises, like meditating, practicing yoga, and stretching can help you to sleep better. Your core body temperature rises during your period, making you feel warmer. Feeling warm can make sleeping difficult so keep the temperature in your bedroom between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit, or 15.5 to 19 degrees Celsius. Wear comfortable clothes. Most women prefer not to wear tight, close-fitting or otherwise uncomfortable clothing while they have their period. You should wear what you feel most comfortable in when you have the opportunity. Women who are bloated might prefer to wear looser tops or pants with an elastic waistband. Wear appropriate underwear. During your period, you should wear underwear that you don't mind getting messy. Even when you use the right feminine hygiene products, you may leak onto your underwear. Some women like to have a few pairs of underwear that they only wear during their periods. You may be more comfortable wearing full coverage bikini briefs, rather than thongs, during your period, especially if you are wearing a pad. Try to get cotton underwear for your period. Not only is it comfortable, but it may be able to reduce your risk of yeast infections. Stains are less noticeable on darker colored underwear. Your underwear should be cotton, which allows the area to breathe and is gentler on the skin. Find ways to relax. Periods can add to your stress and be an inconvenience. Give yourself time to unwind after a day out and find quiet space to just gather your thoughts and feelings. Find ways to relax and to take your mind off any pain or discomfort that you may be feeling. Do the things that make you happy. For instance, listen to your favorite songs and artists and have a dance party in your room. Find activities that you find relaxing or soothing, like meditating, writing in a journal, drawing, listening to soothing music, or watching television. Aromatherapy may also help you relax. Try using sage, lavender, or rose essential oils. Anticipate mood changes during your period. Hormonal changes can affect your mood during your period. For instance, you may feel sad, anxious, or irritable about situations that normally don't impact you. Be aware that if you are feeling upset about something, your emotions might be related to your hormones rather than how you truly feel. You may want to avoid making big decisions during this time, or avoid confrontation. You can write down your emotions each day during your period to see if you notice that you feel sadder or more anxious during this time. If you are experiencing extreme mood swings or have any thoughts about harming yourself contact your doctor immediately. You may be suffering from a condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, which can significantly impact your mood. Change your feminine hygiene product whenever you feel the need. Pads should be changed every three to six hours and tampons should be changed every four to six hours. Never leave a tampon in for longer than eight hours; this increases your risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). You can leave a menstrual cup in for more than twelve hours, and this is the most environmentally friendly option. Changing your feminine hygiene product can help you to feel fresh and more confident that you won't leak. You may need to change your feminine hygiene product more frequently if you have a heavier flow or if it is the first few days of your period. TSS is a serious and life-threatening bacterial infection. If you begin to have a rash that resembles a sunburn, especially on your palms and soles, a high fever, low blood pressure, or begin vomiting contact a medical professional. | Reframe your mindset about your period. Keep track of your period. Keep feminine hygiene products with you at all times. Eat iron-rich foods. Stay hydrated. Take pain medication. Use heat to soothe cramps. Adjust your diet. Manage nausea. Engage in physical activity. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms are unmanageable. Get plenty of rest. Wear comfortable clothes. Wear appropriate underwear. Find ways to relax. Anticipate mood changes during your period. Change your feminine hygiene product whenever you feel the need. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Stencil | How to Make a Stencil | To make a basic vinyl stencil, start by printing your design onto a sheet of regular paper and tracing it onto some vinyl with a permanent marker. Alternatively, if you have an inkjet printer, you can place the vinyl into the tray like you would a regular piece of paper and print the stencil from your computer. Next, use an X-Acto knife, stencil cutter, or vinyl cutter to cut out the stencil on a cutting mat. Then, secure the stencil in place with painters tape, and apply 2 to 3 coats of paint to the material under the stencil. Finally, allow the paint to dry completely before removing the stencil. | Print your stencil design on the vinyl if you have an inkjet printer. Place the vinyl into the tray of your inkjet printer just like you would with regular paper. Then print the stencil from your computer or laptop. Check your printer manual beforehand if you aren't sure what type of printer you have or what types of paper or material are compatible with it. Never put vinyl in a laser printer. Because of its high temperature, it can melt the vinyl or distort the stencil. If you have a laser printer, print your design onto a sheet of regular paper. Then trace it onto the vinyl with a permanent marker. Use an X-Acto knife to cut out the stencil on a cutting mat. Carefully drag the blade around all of the edges, including any interior sections that need to be removed. Remember that any negative space will get painted. To hold the stencil in place, you can tape it to the mat or ask someone to hold it for you while you cut. You can also use a stencil cutter or vinyl cutter if you have one. Set aside any of the inside sections that you'll need later to create your design. For example, if you're cutting out a donut, keep the piece that you cut out of the inside. Otherwise, you'll end up with a filled-in circle instead of a donut. Secure the stencil to your surface with tape. It will be difficult to hold the stencil in the same place the whole time you're painting. If it shifts at all, it will ruin the end result, so place tape on the outside edges of the stencil. Use appropriate tape for whatever surface you're painting. For example, if you're stenciling a painted wall, use painter's tape so it doesn't damage the paint that's already there. Paint 2 to 3 coats over the stencil, letting each coat dry in between. Thinner layers result in a more even color with fewer visible brushstrokes. Use a paintbrush or foam roller to cover all of the negative space in the stencil. Wait for the paint to dry before applying the next coat so you don't smear the previous coat. Be careful not to brush or roll too vigorously. You don't want to shift the stencil or push paint under the edges. Choose your paint type based on the surface you're stenciling. For example, if you're decorating a wall, use interior wall paint or, if you're designing on ceramic, opt for acrylic paint. Spray paint is also a quick and easy option for stenciling. Let the paint dry for at least 24 hours before you remove the stencil. If you try to take off the stencil before the paint is completely dry, you'll smear your hard work. Look on the paint can or package to find the recommended dry time, since it varies based on brand and type. When your paint is fully dry, it shouldn't be tacky to the touch. If it feels a little sticky, let it sit for longer. Print your design onto the freezer paper if you have an inkjet printer. Load the freezer paper into your printer just as you would regular paper. Make sure that you print the design on the matte side of the paper. Do not try to print on freezer paper with a laser printer. It will melt the paper and damage your printer. If you have a laser printer, print the design on regular paper, then trace it onto the freezer paper with a permanent marker. Cut out the design on a cutting mat, using an X-Acto knife. Hold the paper in place with 1 hand, then use the other to carefully cut along the border of your design with an X-Acto knife. Keep in mind that paint will go on any area you cut out. Remove any sections on the inside of your design that you want to be painted, too. Taping the paper to the mat or having a friend hold it in place will make the cutting process easier. If you have a vinyl or craft cutter, you can use that instead of cutting the paper by hand. Iron the stencil onto the fabric with the shiny side facing down. If you try to iron the stencil with the matte side down, the paper will stick to the iron instead of the shirt. Run the iron over the entire stencil, including the edges, to ensure it's completely sealed to the fabric. Don't hold the iron in one place for longer than 5 to 10 seconds or you'll melt the paper. Keep the iron moving over the stencil constantly. Check for any gaps or loose edges. Paint will get under them, so if you notice any, iron those areas again. Place another sheet of freezer paper underneath the fabric. This protects whatever is underneath the fabric, and is especially important if you're stenciling a T-shirt and don't want the paint bleeding through to the other side. Make sure the entire area you're painting is on top of the paper. To prevent the paper from shifting while you paint, tape it to the underside of the fabric. A thick piece of cardboard or sheets of newspaper are both good alternatives to freezer paper for the protective layer. Dab 2 to 3 layers of permanent fabric paint over the stencil. Permanent paint won't wash off in the laundry. Avoid painting with regular brushstrokes because it could push the paint under the stencil. Dabbing on a couple of thin layers with a paintbrush instead of 1 thick one will also prevent the stencil from becoming oversaturated and curling up. How many coats you need depends on the color of the shirt and the paint. For example, if you're using a light color or white paint on a dark shirt, you may need to do more coats to cover the color of the shirt. Let each coat dry before painting the next one. You can also buy a stencil brush instead of a regular paintbrush from a craft store or online retailer. Let the paint dry for at least 24 hours. Check the back of the paint bottle to find the dry time for that specific brand or type. If you aren't sure, a good rule of thumb is to let the paint sit for 1 full day. You can speed up the drying process by using a hair dryer to blow hot air over the paint. Peel the stencil off of the fabric once the paint is dry. Removing the stencil while the paint is still wet could allow the paint to bleed, leaving your design with blurred or smeared edges. You should be able to pull the stencil off with your hands. Use your X-Acto knife to carefully loosen any edges that are difficult to peel off. If you want to protect your painted stencil, you can place a thin cloth over the paint and iron it for 30 seconds. This sets the paint even further into the fabric. | Print your stencil design on the vinyl if you have an inkjet printer. Use an X-Acto knife to cut out the stencil on a cutting mat. Secure the stencil to your surface with tape. Paint 2 to 3 coats over the stencil, letting each coat dry in between. Let the paint dry for at least 24 hours before you remove the stencil. Print your design onto the freezer paper if you have an inkjet printer. Cut out the design on a cutting mat, using an X-Acto knife. Iron the stencil onto the fabric with the shiny side facing down. Place another sheet of freezer paper underneath the fabric. Dab 2 to 3 layers of permanent fabric paint over the stencil. Let the paint dry for at least 24 hours. Peel the stencil off of the fabric once the paint is dry. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Lying | How to Stop Lying | To stop lying, stop yourself from speaking when you feel tempted to not tell the truth since it's better to say nothing at all than to lie. Additionally, practice actively telling the truth with strangers or in an online forum, which can help you get used to being honest with people. When it comes to telling the truth to people you know, practice telling the truth when talking about neutral topics you feel comfortable about. You can also seek out honest role models, such as spiritual leaders, honorable tv or book characters, or leaders of social movements, to keep you inspired to tell the truth. | Figure out why you lie. People often develop the habit of lying from a very early age. Perhaps you learned as a child that you could get your way more often if you lied and you continued the practice as a teenager and beyond as a way to navigate the difficult situations we all encounter in life. Knowing the root cause of your lying is the first step to making a change. Do you lie as a way to gain control over situations? When you can see a clear path to getting what you want through telling a lie, telling the truth is tough. Maybe you routinely lie as a way to make other people do what you want them to do. Do you lie as a way to make yourself look better? The pressure to compete inundates us from the moment we are able to comprehend what it means. Lying is an easy way to boost your status at work, in your social circle, and even with your loved ones Maybe you lie as a way to comfort yourself. Telling the truth is often very difficult; it causes tension, awkwardness, and discomfort. Lying to others, and sometimes to yourself as well, prevents you from having to confront uncomfortable situations and feelings. Determine why you want to stop. Why stop lying when it makes life so much easier? If you don't have clear reasons for quitting, it's a lot harder to become a more honest person. Think hard about what effect lying has on your sense of self, your relationships, and the course of your life. Here are a few good reasons to stop lying: To feel like an upright person again. When you lie, you distance yourself from reality. You hide parts of yourself and project something false to the world. Doing this repeatedly is going to have a negative effect on your sense of goodness and self worth. You deserve the relief of being able to tell the truth about yourself to the world. You are worth getting to know for who you really are. Regaining the ability to take pride in your true identity is probably the most important reason to stop lying. To connect with others again. Lying to other people prevents true connection from taking place. Good relationships are based on people's ability to share themselves with others. The more you mutually reveal, the closer you get. If you're not able to be honest with other people, it's going to have a negative effect on your ability to make friends and feel truly part of a community. To gain back other people's trust. Lying may not cause physical harm but when serves to manipulate other people's behavior, it whittles away at their free will and their right to make choices based on truth. If the people you know have caught you in a lie, they'll protect themselves from further manipulation by no longer placing their trust in you. The only way to gain back someone's trust is to start being honest, and continue being honest until they trust your word again. This could take years, so it's a good idea to start now. Make a commitment to stop. Treat lying as you would any other addiction, make a serious commitment to quit. It's going to require a lot of hard work and thought, so set a date after which you vow to be honest and get a plan in place to help you be successful. Reading this article is a great first step. Get outside help. You might feel like you're alone in your quest to stop lying, but there are people who have been through this and can provide support. It's tough to quit any kind of addiction by yourself. Reach out to people who can provide good advice and help hold you accountable to your goal. Work with a therapist. Talking with someone with a background in psychology and experience helping people who have gone through the same thing will be extremely valuable as you transition from frequent lying to honesty. Talk to the people you're close to. Certain people in your life will want to help you stop lying, even if they've been hurt before by your dishonesty. If you feel comfortable doing so, tell your parents, siblings, or a close friend about your plan to stop lying, so they can provide some support. Join a support group. Talking with other people who understand exactly what you're going through is invaluable. Look for an online support group or a group that meets in person in your community. Identify your triggers. To successfully stop lying, it helps to identify the situations, emotions, people, or places that tend to cause you to avoid telling the truth. Once you know what triggers your lies, you can either avoid the trigger or find a way to confront it with honesty. Do you tend to lie when you're feeling a certain way? Maybe you're anxious about doing well in school or at work, for example, and you lie to temporarily ease that emotion. Figure out ways to handle your anxiety differently. Do you lie to particular people? Maybe you tell your dad falsehoods instead of dealing with his reaction to your poor grades. You'll have to learn to deal with this particular trigger in a healthier way. If you can't say something true, don't say anything at all. When you're faced with a trigger and tempted to tell a lie, stop yourself from speaking at all. If you simply can't be honest in the moment, it's better to stay quiet or change the subject. You are not required to answer questions you don't want to answer, or reveal information you don't feel like revealing. If someone directly asks you a question you don't feel you can answer truthfully, it's fine to tell them you'd rather not answer the question. It might make things a little awkward, but it's still better than telling a lie. Avoid situations that have typically made you feel you have to say something untrue. Big group conversations in which everyone brags about accomplishments, for example, can stir up the need to "keep up" by lying. Pay attention to the physical symptoms telling you that you are about to tell a lie. You might cast your eyes down and feel your heart beating faster; when you feel this happening, disengage from the situation so you won't tell a lie. Practice actively telling the truth. If you've been lying more often than not, telling the truth really does take practice. The key is to think before you speak, and decide to say something true instead of false. Again, if you're asked a question you can't answer truthfully, don't answer. The more you tell the truth, the easier it will become. Try practicing with strangers, or in an online forum. Telling the truth to people with whom you don't have a relationship can be freeing, since it has no consequences. When it comes to people you know, practice being honest by talking about neutral subjects you feel confident discussing. Offer true opinions, or start with basic information about what your plans are for the weekend or what you ate for breakfast. If you have trouble talking about yourself, discuss the news, local politics, sports, philosophy, business ideas, a recipe you tried, your favorite show, a band you want to see, the other person's life, your dog, or the weather. The point is to practice saying things that are true. Learn how to face consequences. At a certain point, telling the truth will put you in a type of situation you've always told lies to avoid. You'll have to own up when you didn't follow the rules, or reveal that you are unemployed, or confess that you didn't get the part for which you auditioned, or tell someone you aren't actually interested in a relationship. Facing the uncomfortable consequences is still better than lying; because it strengthens your character and builds trust with other people. Prepare to deal with other people's reactions. Maybe hearing the truth causes someone to make a negative comment or have a reaction you don't like. Even if this happens, you can be proud that you told the truth, and know you're dealing with problems with strength and honesty instead of using the easy way out. Work on building trust with people who may not believe you at first. If you have been caught lying a lot to a particular person, it may take a while before they believe you are telling the truth. Keep working at it since the only way in the world to gain back trust is to keep being honest. The next time you tell a lie, you are back at square one. Recognize patterns that cause you to slip. As you get into the habit telling the truth, the patterns in your thinking that lead to lies will become more apparent. It's important to stay aware of what tempts you to lie so that you won't slip back into the habit of lying. Learn how to disrupt the patterns by addressing anxiety at its root. If you're faced with a life event that is making you anxious, and about which you don't feel comfortable telling the truth, learn how to deal with your anxiety in a different way. Don't be too hard on yourself when you slip. Being honest is difficult, and we all slip from time to time. Remember that there's only one way to correct the problem: don't lie. Keep being honest. Don't let the pattern take over your life. Make honesty the core of your character. Honesty is a character trait that is highly valued across cultures and societies. It's a quality that is honed through the hard work of being strong in difficult situations year in and year out. Let truth, rather than lies, become your automatic response when you're faced with the trials of life. Recognizing honesty in other people can be helpful when you're trying to live an honest life. Who do you admire? Ask yourself what he or she would do or say if you're having trouble coming up with the most honest approach. Seek out other honest role models - spiritual leaders, honorable characters in literature, philosophers, leaders of social movements, and so on. Everyone fails to be honest sometimes, but honorable people pick themselves up keep trying to do the right thing with every challenge. Build good relationships. The more you tell the truth and are accountable to the expectations of other people, the more they'll trust you. It feels good to be trusted by other people. Trust leads to great friendships, intimate relationships, and a feeling of belonging. It banishes loneliness and creates community. When you stop lying, you gain the freedom to be yourself and be accepted by others for who you really are. | Figure out why you lie. Determine why you want to stop. Make a commitment to stop. Get outside help. Identify your triggers. If you can't say something true, don't say anything at all. Practice actively telling the truth. Learn how to face consequences. Recognize patterns that cause you to slip. Make honesty the core of your character. Build good relationships. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Volume-of-a-Cube-from-Its-Surface-Area | How to Find the Volume of a Cube from Its Surface Area | To find the volume of a cube from its surface area, first use the formula for surface area to find the length of one side of your cube. To do this, plug the surface area you're given into the formula, which is surface area = 6x^2, where x is the length of one side of the cube. Then, solve for x. You can then find the volume of your cube by using the formula v = x^3 where v is volume and x is the number you got previously for the length of one side of your cube. | Set up the formula for surface area of a cube. The formula is s u r f a c e a r e a = 6 x 2 {\displaystyle surfacearea=6x^{2}} , where x {\displaystyle x} equals the length of one edge of the cube. To find the volume of a cube, you need to multiply its three dimensions (length, width, height) together. These dimensions correspond to the length of the edges of the cube. Since all the dimensions (edges) of a cube are the same, in order to find the volume of the cube, you first have to determine the length of one of its edges. Since finding the surface area of a cube also requires the length of one edge, if you know the surface area, you can work backwards to find the length of one edge, then use the edge length to work forward to find the volume. Plug the surface area of the cube into the formula. This information should be given. If you do not know the surface area of the cube, this method will not work. If you already know the length of one edge of the cube, you can skip the following steps and plug in that value for x {\displaystyle x} into the volume of a cube formula: v o l u m e = x 3 {\displaystyle volume=x^{3}}. For example, if the surface area of your cube is 96 square centimeters, your formula will look like this: 96 c m 2 = 6 x 2 {\displaystyle 96cm^{2}=6x^{2}} Divide the surface area by 6. This will give you the value of x 2 {\displaystyle x^{2}}. For example, if the surface area of your cube is 96 square centimeters, you would divide 96 by 6: 96 c m 2 = 6 x 2 {\displaystyle 96cm^{2}=6x^{2}} 96 6 = 6 x 2 6 {\displaystyle {\frac {96}{6}}={\frac {6x^{2}}{6}}} 16 = x 2 {\displaystyle 16=x^{2}} Find the square root. This will give you the value of x {\displaystyle x} , or the length of one edge of the cube. You can find the square root using a calculator, or by hand. For complete instructions, read Calculate a Square Root by Hand. For example, if 16 = x 2 {\displaystyle 16=x^{2}} , then you need to find the square root of 16: 16 = x 2 {\displaystyle 16=x^{2}} 16 = x 2 {\displaystyle {\sqrt {16}}={\sqrt {x^{2}}}} 4 = x {\displaystyle 4=x} So, the length of one edge for a cube with a surface area of 96 c m 2 {\displaystyle 96cm^{2}} is 4 c m {\displaystyle 4cm}. Set up the formula for the volume of a cube. The formula is v = x 3 {\displaystyle v=x^{3}} , where v {\displaystyle v} equals the volume of the cube, and x {\displaystyle x} equals the length of one edge. Plug the length of one edge into the formula. You should have already calculated this from the given surface area. For example, if one edge of a cube is 4 centimeters, then your formula will look like this: v = 4 3 {\displaystyle v=4^{3}}. Cube the length of one edge. To do this, you can use a calculator, or simply multiply x by itself three times. This will give you the volume of your cube, in cubic units. For example, if the length of one edge is 4 centimeters, you would calculate: v = 4 3 {\displaystyle v=4^{3}} v = 4 × 4 × 4 {\displaystyle v=4\times 4\times 4} v = 64 {\displaystyle v=64} So, the volume of a cube with an edge length of 4 centimeters is 64 c m 3 {\displaystyle 64cm^{3}} | Set up the formula for surface area of a cube. Plug the surface area of the cube into the formula. Divide the surface area by 6. Find the square root. Set up the formula for the volume of a cube. Plug the length of one edge into the formula. Cube the length of one edge. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Cricket-Player | How to Become a Cricket Player | If you've mastered the basics of playing cricket and want to take your playing to the next level, start practicing cricket with friends or with an amateur club 4-6 times a week. Look for a cricket coach at your local club and hire one to help you improve. When you're ready, try out for a semi-professional, inter-collegiate, or regional team. | Learn to play cricket. If you don't already know how to play, learn the basics before you join a team or play competitively. If you have friends that play regularly, ask them to explain the rules to you. Alternatively, watch professional games online or on TV to become familiar with the rules of cricket. Some alternative methods include: Watching informative videos online Getting a hands-on lesson by playing with a group of friends Gather your clothing and safety gear. First, purchase well-fitting cleats that will help you run faster. Next, purchase appropriate clothing. If you join a more serious team later, you may need to purchase a uniform. In the meantime, wear a polo T-shirt and long white trousers. Depending on your playing position, you may also need to purchase safety gear, including: Helmet Pads Gloves Chest guard Abdominal guard Thigh guards Arm guards Shin guards Purchase cricket equipment. Many teams and clubs provide cricket equipment for you. However, if you play with friends recreationally or start a team, you will need to purchase your own gear. You will need: 6 stumps or long white poles 4 bails that will rest on the poles 2 cricket bats 1 red cricket ball Join an amateur cricketing club or play with friends. The easiest way to play cricket recreationally is to join a local cricket team hosted by your school or local community center. These teams will have equipment, playing fields, and certified referees. Alternatively, host your own cricket games with some friends to become a cricket player. However, you may have to bend the rules to accommodate your situation. For example: If you don't have enough players to populate 2 teams, you may have to play a variety of positions throughout the game. If you don't have the funds for cricket equipment, you may have to do without specialized safety gear. If this is the case, play with a soft ball to prevent injury. It may be difficult to find referees, especially if none of your friends volunteer for the position. Practice often. The more you practice, the better you'll get. The average professional cricket player only has 5 weeks off per year. That means that they're training hard during the other 47 weeks of the year. If you want to be competitive, you have to train whenever you can. For example: Spend your weekends playing cricket with your team or with friends. Instead of watching TV when you get home from work, go for a run outside. Throw a ball around with your coworkers during your lunch break. Hit as many cricket balls as possible. Get a coach. Utilizing a coach is expensive and time consuming. However, a coach will be able to help you improve faster than you ever could on your own. The more time you spend one-on-one with a coach, the better your cricket game will be. To find a coach: Ask your friends if they know any good coaches. Do an online search for trainers in your area. Ask around at a cricket event. Look for postings at your local cricket club. Watch the professionals play. Watch pro cricket games whenever you get the chance, whether it's in person, on TV, or online. While you watch, examine the different techniques that your favorite players use. Do your best to absorb as much information as you can. Ask yourself: How do they react under pressure? How to they interact with their teammates? What techniques set them apart from their teammates? How might you reenact those techniques? Talk to experienced players. Make an effort to become friends with the most experienced members of your club or team. Ask them for advice on improving your cricket game. If you go see a cricket game, stick around after the match ends and try to meet the players. Ask the players if they have any tips for a budding cricket enthusiast. If an experienced player gives you advice, follow it. There's no point in asking for advice if you're not going to take it. Don't let your feelings get hurt. If an experienced player gives you harsh criticism, see it as an opportunity for improvement. Make a list of universities to apply to. Do a search online or talk to your school's guidance counselor to decide which universities give you the best opportunity to play cricket. Additionally, look at the variety of academic programs offered by each school, the housing options, and the financial aid available. These criteria will help you narrow your choices down into a short list of 4 to 5 schools. There are 6 university cricket academies and 7 educational institutions throughout Wales and England that are part of the Marylebone Cricket Club University (MCCU) scheme. These schools offer the chance to further your academic career while playing cricket under top-level coaches. You can find more information at https://www.lords.org/mcc/youth-cricket/mcc-universities/. Make sure you meet all the qualifications. If you're looking at schools far enough in advance, you can work hard to meet qualifications that you may not meet otherwise. For example, if the schools you like require a high grade point average, work hard in all of your classes to raise your grades. For a list of applicant qualifications, look on the university website or talk to an admission counselor. Some other examples of qualifications include: Being involved in extracurricular activities at school Attending any university events to meet professors and show interest Doing a lot of community service Talk to an admissions counselor. Before you apply anywhere, talk to an admissions counselor from each university. Explain your desire to play on the cricket team and ask them if they have any advice for you. Follow any advice they give you as best you can. Other great information to ask for includes: Information about the tryout process for the cricket team Whether or not the cricket coach would be willing to give you application advice How competitive the cricket tryouts are Apply to the universities. Apply to each university on your list to give you the best chance of attending one. Each university have different application processes and deadlines. Therefore, visit the university website or talk to an admissions counselor for information on how to apply. Common application components include: A cover letter An essay describing your reasons for applying A transcript from your previous school Try out for the cricket team. Once you're admitted into a university, try to get onto the cricket team. Find out when tryouts are being held and attend them. Additionally, talk to the coach about playing on the team. They will be able to give you good advice about playing on the team and will remember you when you attend tryouts. Sometimes tryouts are held before the school year begins. Find out the dates and times of the cricket team tryouts from an admissions counselor or the cricket coach. Be persistent. If you don't make the cricket team, try again next year. In the meantime, practice cricket as often as you can to improve your game. Additionally, work hard in all of your classes to make good grades and focus on finding subjects that you enjoy. Even if you don't make it onto the cricket team, you'll end up with a degree from a great university! Play for a club. In order to become a professional player, you must have experience playing for a cricket club. If you're not currently a member of a club, find a local club to join to gain experience. Once you're a member, you can be nominated for trials into state borough teams, minor county teams, then county teams. Find a way to stand out. A valuable player is good in many different roles. However, if you want to get noticed, you need to specialize your training to become noteworthy. To do so, base the core of your training around the repeated movements your position requires. For example: If you're a bowler, practice bowling the ball. If you're a wicket keeper, practice rising from a crouch quickly and catching the ball. If you're a batsman , practice hitting the ball. Join a highly competitive team. This can mean a school team, a semi-professional team, an inter-collegiate team, or a regional team. A competitive team participates in tournaments within their region. These teams will give you important training and help you get noticed by recruiters. You may have to try out for a spot on these teams. If so, practice hard and don't give up! Try out as many times as you're allowed. Always show that you're a good team player. Otherwise, recruiters may not want you on their team, even if you're very talented. Look for open tryouts. Once you've become competitive on a semi-professional level, start looking for open tryouts for your favorite professional teams. Make friends with recruiters and other serious cricket players to be the first to hear about these tryouts. Otherwise, search for open tryouts online or look on your favorite team's website. Most open tryouts are held before the start of a new season. There will be many, many people at an open tryout. Do your best to stand apart from the crowd by being a team player and performing well. | Learn to play cricket. Gather your clothing and safety gear. Purchase cricket equipment. Join an amateur cricketing club or play with friends. Practice often. Get a coach. Watch the professionals play. Talk to experienced players. Make a list of universities to apply to. Make sure you meet all the qualifications. Talk to an admissions counselor. Apply to the universities. Try out for the cricket team. Be persistent. Play for a club. Find a way to stand out. Join a highly competitive team. Look for open tryouts. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-and-Treat-Overgrown-Teeth-in-Chinchillas | How to Prevent and Treat Overgrown Teeth in Chinchillas | To prevent and treat overgrown teeth in chinchillas, start by feeding your pet plenty of high quality timothy hay, which helps to wear down its teeth at a normal, appropriate rate. It also helps to give your chinchilla lots of chewable items, like pumice stones and wooden blocks, to keep its teeth healthy. Never try to prevent or treat a tooth issue yourself by filing or clipping it, since this can seriously hurt your chinchilla and possibly cause permanent root damage. Instead, take your chinchilla to the vet 1-2 times per year to monitor its teeth and address any elongation issues before they get out of hand. | Give your chinchilla high quality timothy hay. One of the main reasons chinchillas have overgrown teeth is because they do not get fed the proper foods. Timothy hay is an important staple for your chinchilla's diet. It helps the teeth wear at a normal, appropriate rate. Other than a small amount of pellets, the rest of your chinchilla's food should be timothy hay. Timothy hay should be available to your chinchilla at all times. Limit how many pellets your chinchilla eats. Too many pellets can cause their teeth to become overgrown. Adult chinchillas should get around ⅛ cup of pellets per day. Make sure that you remove any uneaten hay and replace it with fresh once per day. Provide a nutrient-rich diet. Diets that lack the proper nutrients can lead to dental problems in your chinchilla. They need foods that provide calcium and vitamin C. Feed your chinchilla quality chinchilla pellets or rabbit pellets that provide quality nutrients. Avoid feeding your chinchilla bird, hamster, gerbil, mouse, or guinea pig food. Don't give your chinchilla fruit and sugary foods. These foods can lead to dental problems. You can ask your veterinarian to recommend a quality chinchilla food or ask other chinchilla owners for their advice on what foods are best. Provide plenty of chewable items. Chewing is the way that chinchillas keep their teeth from getting too long. Your pet needs access to items that will help file down their teeth naturally. Pumice stones and chew blocks are two great chew items that will help keep their teeth healthy. You can let your chinchilla chew on elm, ash, maple, apple, pear, peach, orange, or birch wood. Don't give them any kind of wood that came from a lumber yard or cedar, cherry, oleander, redwood, or plum wood. The chinchilla should always have access to one of these items. Take your chinchilla to the vet for regular teeth checkups. One way to prevent any overgrown teeth is to keep a close watch on them. The vet will check the length and overall condition of the teeth. You should take your chinchilla to the vet for a checkup one to two times each year. Make a veterinary appointment as soon as you notice a tooth problem. Overly long teeth or tooth spurs can cause many problems for your chinchilla. If you notice any problems, take your chinchilla to the vet immediately. The vet needs to take care of the problem as soon as possible. Overgrown teeth and tooth spurs can cut your chinchilla's mouth, causing bleeding and sores. Cuts in the mouth can also get infected. You may also notice other symptoms, such as problems or a decrease in eating, weight loss, problems with the eyes, slobbering, and paying close attention to or pawing at their face. Avoid filing the tooth yourself. If you see a developing problem with an overgrown tooth, you should not try to prevent it or treat it yourself by filing or clipping it. This can lead to problems for your chinchilla, including root damage. If you think there is a problem, take the chinchilla to the vet. Never clip a chinchilla's tooth with nail clippers or try to file it with your own file. Have a surgeon file the tooth. Chinchillas can have teeth that get overly long if the matching tooth is missing. This causes the remaining tooth to grow long since it won't wear down. They may also develop tooth spurs, which are pieces of tooth that have grown in differently than the normal tooth. The only way to treat these tooth conditions is to have a vet or veterinary surgeon clip or file the tooth down. Your chinchilla will have to be put under anesthesia for this procedure. Consider removing the abnormal tooth. If your chinchilla has a lot of problems with a particular tooth, it may be more trouble than it's worth to keep going to the vet for fixes. Teeth that need filing often or other frequent maintenance may need to be pulled. Talk to your vet about whether or not removing the tooth is a good option for your chinchilla. Take your chinchilla for checkups every six months. Chinchillas that have tooth elongation need to be monitored closely. You should take your chinchilla for a checkup twice each year. The vet will perform minor filing to help maintain the tooth's length. The vet will also monitor your chinchilla for any tooth spurs that may start to develop. | Give your chinchilla high quality timothy hay. Provide a nutrient-rich diet. Provide plenty of chewable items. Take your chinchilla to the vet for regular teeth checkups. Make a veterinary appointment as soon as you notice a tooth problem. Avoid filing the tooth yourself. Have a surgeon file the tooth. Consider removing the abnormal tooth. Take your chinchilla for checkups every six months. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Guy-Think-About-You | How to Make a Guy Think About You | To make a guy think about you, all you need to do is be nice and show an interest in his life. Find out what he does for fun and check in occasionally to ask about it. If he mentions he has a big football game coming up on Friday, text him on the weekend and ask him how it went. The fact that you care will make him think of you more often. You should also tell him fun and interesting things about yourself and look for things you have in common. For example, if you have a conversation about a band you both like, next time he listens to them, he'll probably think about you! Once you have him on the hook, try to maintain a little mystery about yourself to keep him guessing. For instance, if he asks what your favorite movie is, you can say, “It's kind of embarrassing. Maybe if we get to know each other better, I'll let you in on the secret.” | Make eye contact. Locking eyes can cause crazy sparks. Don't try to stare deep into his soul (that could come off as creepy), but if you can catch his eye from across the room or hold his gaze while talking, you can have a major affect on him. Eye contact causes arousal and can lead to feelings of attraction. Try catching his gaze and smiling as you look away. Then glance back at him again. Touch him unexpectedly (but appropriately). Touching increases attraction and can elevate a person's heart rate, similar to what they experience when falling in love. Finding subtle ways to make physical contact will help you stay on his mind. Sit next to him so that your shoulders or legs barely touch. "Accidentally" graze his arm while reaching for something or brush fingers when you hand him something. Touch his arm to get his attention or emphasize a point, or when he's said something funny. Say his name. Don't use his name to start every other sentence, but drop it into conversation every once in a while. It will grab his attention, foster a sense of intimacy, and reminds him that you're thinking only about him. If he says something that makes you laugh or blush, try saying his name quietly as you laugh. Nicknames can be fun, too. If you give him a nickname that only you use, your little inside joke will set your relationship apart. Wear a subtle, signature fragrance. Don't pour your perfume all over yourself--if it's too strong, it's going to be a turn-off and may even cause headaches or allergic reactions. Apply just a little so he will be able to smell it when you're close to him. His mind will create an association between you and your fragrance. Consider a fragrance he might encounter when he's not with you. Try rose or lavender, or even something fun like pumpkin pie or coconut. Then, when he walks by a rose bush, he'll instantly think of you. Live your own life. Don't wait around hoping to hear from him. Your life without him should be full and interesting. The biggest mistake you can make is to wait for a guy to make your life fun and exciting. That gives you way too much time to obsess about your crush and, frankly, makes you pretty boring. Get busy pursuing your own thing and it's likely he'll be wondering if he can tag along. Showing that you are an interesting, independent person all on your own. He'll be flattered that you're spending time with him not because you need him to make your life exciting, but because you choose to be with him. Be yourself. Don't set yourself up for failure by pretending to be something you're not just to get a guy to like you. If he doesn't see through your act immediately, it will only be a matter of time before he finds out. Being comfortable with yourself projects confidence, which is irresistible. If you hate football but your crush is obsessed with it, don't pretend to be a fan. If you just don't know much about the sport, ask him to share his knowledge. If you're into it, then you've got another thing in common. If you're not, that's okay. Just be honest! If your crush always dates girly girls but you're more of a tomboy, don't reinvent yourself just so he'll notice you. If you can catch his interest because you're interesting and funny, you'll know he's into you for your personality, and not just because you fit his "type." Don't overthink it. Obsessing over whether or not he thinks about you as much as you think about him is draining, can hurt your self-esteem, and can cause you to feel insecure. Crushes are supposed to be fun! Focus on living that full, interesting life, and you won't worry so much about what's going to happen next. Don't let obsessing stop you from doing the things you love and turn you into someone else. Keep doing the things that make you you. Ask him questions about himself and listen to what he says. Most people really like to talk about themselves. It feels good when someone is genuinely interested in your opinion and experiences and wants you to share those things. Ask about his hobbies or his favorite bands and movies. People tend to have a very positive opinion about people who ask them questions about themselves. Make sure you weigh in, too. The conversation shouldn't be all about him. Share your own thoughts and opinions (and don't feel you always have to agree with him). Don't play hard to get. You may think that flirting up a storm with other guys will show him that you're desirable and have other options, but playing hard to get rarely works. Research shows that we are more attracted to people who are selective. So if you're in a group and none of the other guys seem to hold your attention, but you have a big smile just for your crush, you're going to catch his interest. This doesn't mean you have to be rude, mean, or ignore other guys. But if you were thinking about flirting with someone just to make your crush jealous, you might want to think again. Maintain a sense of mystery. If he knows everything about you right off the bat, he'll lose the fun and anticipation of slowly getting to know what makes you tick. So hold back a little bit. Don't call, message, or text him constantly. Give him the time and room to think and wonder about you. Let him be curious about you and what you're doing. Don't ignore him or be rude, but don't always be available. | Make eye contact. Touch him unexpectedly (but appropriately). Say his name. Wear a subtle, signature fragrance. Live your own life. Be yourself. Don't overthink it. Ask him questions about himself and listen to what he says. Don't play hard to get. Maintain a sense of mystery. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Dance-Studio | How to Start a Dance Studio | To start a dance studio, you'll need to rent a large enough space to run your studio out of, preferably in a busy area where you'll attract a lot of customers. You should also decide what your niche is going to be, like couples dance lessons, children's classes, or maybe a specific dance style. Make sure you have plenty of money saved up or a way to finance your studio since you'll need to spend money on renovations, marketing, and keeping your business open for the first few months. | Settle on a budget. Before you continue with any further planning, you need to be well aware of how much you are able to spend on the different elements of owning your own dance studio. Rent/mortgage on a space Utilities for the space Start-up expenses (e.g. renovations, mirrors, seating, storage, paint, equipment) Advertising and marketing Payroll for employees and dance instructors It is possible that you might need to take out a loan or obtain investors to start your business. Know what you are getting into before you officially sign any agreements. Decide on a geographic location for your business. This is important, because your location determines the type of clientele you will attract to your business. Starting your dance studio in a very family-friendly neighborhood will likely bring you many kids, so if you are interested in marketing your dance studio to children, then keep this in mind. Think about what part of town you choose for the location. If you are looking to offer ethnic styles of dance, for example, then opening your studio in an area of town where people of that ethnicity live makes sense. Try to plan for your studio to open in an area where it will be highly visible to the community, such as on a busy road. It may be more expensive, but with traffic driving by constantly, your building is advertising itself to all of the passersby. Consider how much you can afford to spend on renting or buying your dance studio space. If you are in a large city, for example, then renting or buying a space in the downtown area is likely extremely expensive. Look in areas of your town or city where the rates are in your price range. Think about the safety of the area. A particular area of town might be more affordable, but if it has a higher crime rate, then it is likely not worth it. You want your clientele to feel safe when they attend classes at your studio. Research and decide upon what type of business entity you want to be. This will vary based on whether you plan to be the only dance instructor in a small studio, you plan to have a business partner, or you plan to hire additional dance instructors. Sole proprietor: an unincorporated business that is run by one individual with no separation between that individual and the business S-Corporation: a type of corporation that can avoid double taxation (e.g. once to the business and once to the shareholders) C-Corporation: a type of corporation that is owned by shareholders but is legally liable for actions and debts Limited Liability Company (LLC): a structure that offers the limited liability of corporations but has the flexibility of a partnership Decide on a name for your business. This is the most important part of your brand and business, because this is what will be shared most often. Be sure that it represents you and your vision for the studio. Dance the Night Away The Tango Studio En Pointe Ballet Company Swing Dance Central Masters of the Dance Premier Dance Studio Identify your market niche and ideal clientele. There are a variety of niches that you could go into with dance studios, and each niche will bring certain clientele. You need to identify what yours will be. Couples dance lessons Singles dance lessons Children's dance lessons One or two particular dance styles only (e.g. ballet, salsa, tap) Ethnic dance styles (e.g. salsa, flamenco, jazz, folk, street) Common dance styles (e.g. swing, ballroom, jazz) Plan your company's vision and mission statements. Having these statements identified helps to keep you on track as you start up your studio and define short-term and long-term goals. A vision statement outlines the primary goals of your business without giving definitive plans for achieving them. The vision statement helps you and your employees conceptualize the goals of the company. A mission statement is a short statement that helps convey your business's purpose. This statement may change over time, if your business goals become different, and it is intended to clarify what your business will do for both employees and clients. Define your brand for your dance studio. Your brand will represent everything about your business, and it should be consistent across everything that clients and potential clients see. Branding is the equivalent of your promise to your clients. It should come from who you are and what you want to give to your clientele. Your vision and mission statements tie into your brand. Having strong branding leads to having much business success. When people know what to expect from you, they are more likely to trust you. Know what your target niche is and what those dance clients needs, and then tailor your brand to them. Market yourself as much as you market your dance studio. Branding includes how you choose to treat your clientele, the quality of dance education you give, the details you provide about how you do business, how you create a special experience for your clientele, and how you inspire your clientele. Choose what services you are going to offer your dance clientele. This will largely depend on your client niche, so consider this as you decide. Will you offer group dance classes? Private dance classes? Both? What about couples classes? Singles classes? Both? What styles of dance do you plan to teach? Will you have a dance team that will compete? Create a pricing structure of your services. You will need to make an income off of your dance classes in order to keep your business open, so weigh the services against your expenses. Know what the clients in your target niche will be able to afford. You do not want to charge prices that they cannot pay. Remember that you will have to pay quarterly estimated taxes when you are self-employed. Have a realistic idea of how much your monthly expenses will be, and ensure that you can at least break even. Losing money on your business will ultimately lead to having to close down. Design a marketing and advertising plan. In order to get dance clients, you need to have a plan for how you will market and advertise your studio in your community. This plan should approach marketing both offline (i.e. in person) and online. Start advertising your studio before it opens. This will help get people excited about it and create awareness of it before you are even ready to open your doors. Look into the costs of building a website and opening social media accounts in order to reach the online crowd. Accommodate those costs in your budget. Be aware of how much expenses will be for marketing. Printing flyers, creating business cards, advertising in the newspaper, and having a billboard advertisement all cost money. Use word-of-mouth as much as possible. Have friends and family who support your business endeavor help spread the word about it. Come up with your business policies. This includes a variety of key details that you may not have otherwise considered. These policies need to be clear to clients and employees in order to avoid confusion and problems down the road. Methods of payment Late payments Refunds Hours of operation Communication with clients Hiring process for employees Signing on new clients Termination of employees or relationships with challenging clients Rent or purchase a space for your business. After you have identified how much you can afford to spend and where your ideal location is, use a real estate agent to help you secure a space. There are some things to keep in mind: Square footage Layout of the space—studio space should be maximized over lobby, office, storage, and bathroom spaces Zoned for your specific use as a dance studio Up-to-date on building codes for your city Parking Safety Neighboring businesses Renovate the space as needed. If some renovations are required in the space before you can open your doors for business, then enlist help from family and friends to get those renovations done. Remember to keep your costs as low as possible, but you can hire professionals if it is in your budget. Keep in mind that the flooring is the most important element of the space. It is important to have appropriate dance flooring, and types of flooring vary depending on what styles of dance you plan to offer. Fill the space with appropriate equipment. The types of equipment you might want for your dance studio include barres, a sound system, soundproof insulation in the walls, a security system, and an observation system for parents that is not distracting for dance students. Decorate the space according to your brand and service offerings. If you offer a variety of styles of dance, then the space can reflect that. However, if you are only offering one style of dance, such as ballet, then tailor your décor to that style. Declare your business entity with the appropriate government agency. There will likely be paperwork you need to fill out, and, depending on what type of business entity you want to become, fees to pay. The processes for this vary by state, so check your state government's website. Design and order the visual elements of your business. Having a specific logo to represent your brand is important. Be sure the logo can be recreated across different platforms, such as the outside sign, your website, and your business cards. Take this decision seriously, as it is possible to re-brand in the future, but it is challenging. Do not rush into a decision on a logo. Set up any accounts or online tools that you need to help you run your business. This includes a variety of things: A business bank account and credit card A bookkeeping tool or hired professional to track income and expenses A business mailing address (i.e. PO Box) and phone number Necessary technological equipment and software to run the business Online methods of payments, if necessary, such as PayPal or Stripe A method for paying taxes, either by yourself or hiring a tax professional Become familiar with how to complete your own business systems. Tasks such as bookkeeping, payroll, invoicing, tracking client information, and the like need to be solidified before accepting clientele. Create fake clients, invoices, and employees to help you practice. These can be deleted or destroyed once you have the system down. Become familiar with bookkeeping by tracking your expenses during the start-up period. Know what can be claimed as a business expense on your taxes. Build a website for your business. Just as you came up with a marketing and advertising plan that included things like business cards and advertisements in the newspaper, you also need to have a business website. Find a hosting service and a domain name. You can get these together or separately. Your domain name should be the name of your business and, if possible, end in.com. Hire a professional to build a framework and theme for your site or search online to buy these things yourself. There are many pre-made themes available for varying prices. If you choose to buy pre-made themes, be sure to also buy a framework. Genesis Framework is the most recommended, and you can buy it separately from your theme or find a theme that comes with it. Decide the platform for your website. WordPress.org is the most recommended self-hosting platform, and most hosting services offer ways to install WordPress onto your new site. When setting up the pages on your website, be sure to have the necessary pages: home page, about page, services page, testimonials page, and contact page. You can also consider having a blog as part of your website, if you think you will be able to publish regular blog posts about related topics. Start accounts on social networking platforms. This is another way to market your business word-of-mouth, especially prior to opening. Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest, if desired Hire additional employees and dance instructors, if you are financially able and it is in your business plan. You may decide to go it alone until your clientele gets large enough to afford these other staff members. However, if you want to offer a large selection of classes right away or if you want to offer a selection of different styles of dance, it is best to hire additional instructors. You may decide that having an office manager or receptionist will take a load off of your plate. This person can handle signing on new clients, setting up clients in particular classes, processing payments, and communicating with clients. Look to local colleges and universities for dance students who may be looking for experience as dance instructors. They will likely be more affordable, since they are not yet fully trained. This will also allow you to network with area dancers. Teach your new employees about your business policies and systems, if it is necessary for them to know these policies and systems based on their roles. Market your studio as you get closer to your grand opening. In the planning stages, you came up with a marketing and advertising plan. It is now time to put that plan into action so that when you open for business, you have people interested in becoming clients right away. Plan a grand opening event. This is a great way to advertise your studio and get a lot of potential customers right away. Set a grand opening date depending on your renovation and set-up timeline. Then, be sure to have your renovations and set-up done by that date! Advertise the party. It can simply be a party welcoming people to the space to get familiar and learn more about your business. You could even offer free group dance lessons during the party. Market the grand opening party to your target niche. Make sure that your ideal clients know about your studio. Know why you are starting a dance studio. No one else knows your motivation to open this business, so you need to make sure that you know why you want to do this. If you lose sight of why you are doing this, there is a possibility of failure. Why did I choose to open a dance studio? What do I want to achieve by opening a dance studio? Who do I hope to help? Why does my community need this dance studio? What am I going to do to set my dance studio apart from other studios in my area? Understand your budget and maintain it. Many new studios fail because they do not control their budget and end up in debt. Be sure to frequently check your budget and know how much you can spend on different start-up costs. I had to spend more in electrical repairs to make sure the studio was up to code, so where can I make some sacrifices in another part of the budget? I do not have enough money saved up myself to fund this dance studio. How can I get the rest of the start-up costs funded? It seems like I am spreading my money too thinly. What equipment or renovations can I cut out for now so that the important elements of my studio, such as the flooring and safety, are better quality? I do not have enough money to buy new flooring for every room of the dance studio. What rooms and type of flooring should I prioritize right now? I was able to get all start-up costs funded, and I have extra money leftover in my budget! How can I save that money and put it toward other studio needs, such as future rent payments or repairs? Stick to your start-up plan. While you are going through with finding a studio space, renovating and readying it, and getting your marketing strategies going, you might be tempted to take on more tasks. It is best to stick to your plan to not overwhelm yourself and your resources. These additional things can be done at a later, more advantageous time. Avoid buying additional equipment that is not necessary for the studio to function right now. Avoid taking on additional repairs or renovations that are not necessary for the studio space to be up to code and open to welcome customers. Avoid comparing your dance studio to another one in town that you think is “better.” Stand by what you can do and what you can offer to your future clientele. Maintain marketing strategies that you can afford. Ignore temptation to take on more expensive, flashier marketing strategies that you see another studio using. Communicate with your stakeholders. If you have stakeholders involved in helping you start up your studio, such as investors, then you need to engage in frequent, honest communication with them. If stakeholders learn that you were dishonest or that you kept some information from them, they will likely withdraw their funding. Communicate if an unexpected necessary but expensive repair comes up. Let them know if renovations are delayed and your timeline for opening has to be pushed back. Tell them what their funding is helping you purchase for your dance studio. Invite them to the grand opening event. Build relationships with your employees. Starting your own dance studio is going to be stressful, and it will feel easy to take that stress out on new employees. However, it is important to build relationships with them. They will help you start this studio, and you do not want them leaving you before the studio even opens its doors for customers. Thank them for their help in getting projects completed. Pay them the agreed upon rate and when you say you will pay them. Be honest about how much you can afford to pay them. Recognize their work and dedication at the grand opening event. Reward them with any benefits that you can afford, such as paid time off, insurance benefits, or guest passes to classes for their family or friends. | Settle on a budget. Decide on a geographic location for your business. Research and decide upon what type of business entity you want to be. Decide on a name for your business. Identify your market niche and ideal clientele. Plan your company's vision and mission statements. Define your brand for your dance studio. Choose what services you are going to offer your dance clientele. Create a pricing structure of your services. Design a marketing and advertising plan. Come up with your business policies. Rent or purchase a space for your business. Renovate the space as needed. Declare your business entity with the appropriate government agency. Design and order the visual elements of your business. Set up any accounts or online tools that you need to help you run your business. Become familiar with how to complete your own business systems. Build a website for your business. Start accounts on social networking platforms. Hire additional employees and dance instructors, if you are financially able and it is in your business plan. Market your studio as you get closer to your grand opening. Plan a grand opening event. Know why you are starting a dance studio. Understand your budget and maintain it. Stick to your start-up plan. Communicate with your stakeholders. Build relationships with your employees. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Breed-Rabbits | How to Breed Rabbits | To breed rabbits, wait until your rabbits are at least 6 months old and choose mates that are healthy and happy. Next, place the female into the male's hutch and leave them alone for about 30 minutes so they can mate. Avoid leaving them in the same hutch for longer periods of time and if the female seems anxious or aggressive, separate them immediately. Once the female rabbit is pregnant, she will start nesting after 25-27 days, and she'll give birth by day 32-33. | Decide why you want to breed rabbits. Breeding rabbits is a huge responsibility that takes time, commitment, and patience. Before you begin breeding rabbits, decide why you want to do this. Are you planning on selling them? Do you want them as pets? Are you breeding them for meat? Decide if this is something you truly want to commit to doing. If you don't have the time, think you will get tired of it, or eventually want to send the rabbits to a shelter, rethink your plans. Rabbits are the third most common animal in shelters, after dogs and cats. Other rabbits get released into the wild, where they die from predators, lack of care, or starvation. Only a small percentage of rabbits at pet stores find safe, loving owners. They may be sold to inexperienced owners who may accidentally kill them. Breeding rabbits won't turn a significant profit. Plus, there isn't a high demand for rabbits, especially as pets, because there are already so many pet rabbits trying to be sold. Research available rabbit breeds. There are a wide variety of rabbit breeds available to home breeders. Before you choose a rabbit just because it is cute, be sure that it will fulfill your needs. Here is some basic information about several common rabbit breeds (but this list is by no means exhaustive): American: The American rabbit breed is a large-sized breed that is a good meat and fur breed. It is typically 9 - 12 pounds, a hardy breed, and they produce large litters. Angora: There are several types of angora rabbits, including English, French, Giant, and Satin. These rabbits are typically bred for their wool. The wool is hand spun into yarn, which is knitted into light-weight and soft garments. Because of the nature of angora coats, this breed needs a lot of grooming, usually once or twice a week. Flemish Giant: Flemish giant rabbits are the largest breed of rabbits. They can weigh up to 22 pounds. They come in seven colors, from black through white. Flemish giants were originally bred for meat and fur, but are now largely bred for show or as pets, as they are expensive to feed and have a very pleasant docile nature. Himalayan: The Himalayan rabbit is a small, white breed that is used in laboratories and bred for show. Due to its small size, it is relatively cheap to feed and raise. Chinchilla: The chinchilla rabbit breeds are typically bred for their fur but also make excellent pets. They are medium sized, from 9 to 12 pounds, and have docile and curious personalities. Above all, however, their fur is their winning feature, as it is exceedingly soft and enjoyable to pet. Choose the right rabbits to breed. The breed you choose might depend on availability, price, and preference. What you plan on doing with the rabbits also determines which breeds you choose. Some people want to sell and show the rabbits, while others want to keep them as pets, and others breed for meat. If you want to sell or show the rabbits, make sure to mate rabbits of the same breed. If you are planning to sell the rabbits, mixed breeds have little value. Mixing the breeds when you mate the rabbits also lessens the quality of the stock. A rabbit can't be considered pedigree if there is mixed-breed blood. If you want the rabbits for meat or genetic experimentation, you can mix the breeds of rabbits. Never breed full siblings. You can breed half siblings, father-daughters, mother-sons, cousins, and so on. Unless you have a lot of knowledge about genetics and inbreeding, try not to breed pairs that are too closely related. Breed your rabbits at the proper age. You want to start breeding does (female rabbits) when they are reaching maturity. For small-medium breeds, they can be bred at 6-7 months old. Larger breeds can be bred at 8-9 months. Bucks (male rabbits) are usually ready around 6 months old if a small breed, 7 months if medium, and 9 months for a large breed. Ensure that you will have homes for the kits (babies) before you breed. Check that you will have spare hutches for when the kits are weaned, and that you will be able to afford the costs of breeding. Decide what you are going to do with the kits when they have been weaned. Male and female kits must be separated when they are 8 weeks old. By 10 weeks old for bucks and 3-4 months old for does, rabbits need their own private cage. You must have enough cages for these animals in case you don't sell them. If you overcrowd young kits, they could fight and injure each other, or live in poor conditions that will affect their health. You also should have a large, safe enclosed garden for the rabbits. If you plan on selling the rabbits, try to talk to friends, other breeders, or advertise so that you can line up potential customers ahead of time. Breed from healthy, happy rabbits only. The physical condition of your rabbits when mating them is extremely important. Take your rabbits to a veterinarian before breeding them, just to make sure they are in tip top shape. Rabbits should not be underweight or overweight because this affects the success of the breeding. You should monitor what you feed the rabbits and make sure you provide the best nutrition so they are healthy. Check the cage of both the buck and doe for any evidence of diarrhea or loose stools. Check the genitals on both rabbits for any signs of disease of infection, such as extreme redness, discharge, sores, or scabs. These conditions need to be treated before breeding the rabbits. If your rabbit is aggressive or unhealthy, don't breed it. Breeding aggressive rabbits is not recommended. Put the doe in the buck's hutch. A female's cage will smell like her, so the buck may get distracted by the unfamiliar smells and try to mark the territory. They may also fight. Always take the female to the male. Leave the breeding pair together for half an hour. You want to give the rabbits time to mate, preferably 2-3 times. Having them mate multiple times can help with the litter size and the success of the breeding. Some people breed them again after an hour or later the same day to ensure a mating instead of letting them breed 3 times in a single session. If the female is anxious, aggressive, or trying to get away from the male, separate them immediately. You may want to check the doe's vent to make sure that the breeding didn't misfire. If you find the doe's back or tail wet, the breeding was not successful. Leave the rabbits in the cage and let them breed again. It is not ideal for bucks and does to be left together for long periods of time. Although they may get along well, they may also fight if the doe becomes annoyed with the buck. Does have been known to castrate bucks. Contrary to popular belief, however, there is no danger of a doe becoming pregnant with two litters at once (unlike hares, which CAN carry two pregnancies, but the embryos are stored until she gives birth). Feel the abdomen of the female to determine if it is pregnant. Palpation is the best way of telling if a doe is pregnant or not. This is the method of using your hands to examine her body by feeling her abdomen to see if there are any babies inside. If she is pregnant, you will feel grape-sized embryos. For beginners, this method is most easily done 10-14 days after breeding. Pregnancy lasts approximately 28-33 days depending on the breed. Dead litters are usually delivered after day 34, but does have been known to give birth to live kits up to day 40. If the doe is not pregnant, you can breed her again immediately. Provide plenty of extra hay and bedding. Around day 25, a nesting box should be put in the doe's cage. This is for the doe to build a nest with. The nesting box should have soft straw or hay. Leave extra material around for her so she can make her nest. She will also pluck her chest and stomach hair to fill the nest. The nesting box should be 18" x 10" x 10". Cut the front into a V-shape or another opening that is 6" high for the doe to get in and out of. Make sure there is a small wire mesh bottom to allow urine and moisture to drain. Also place paper underneath to soak up the urine. Make a hole in the hay at the back of the box to encourage the doe to make her nest back there. This can help protect the kits from the elements and protect them from the doe jumping in and out of the box. Give the doe peace and quiet. The mother needs a quiet, stress-free environment while pregnant. Don't lift her up unless you absolutely have to. Unnecessary lifting can damage the litter. If you do lift her, don't lift her by her stomach. Expect the mother to give birth 28-33 days after breeding. The mother will start nesting around days 25-27, and by day 32-33, she will give birth. Leave her to it if you do catch her giving birth, though chances are all will be done and cleaned up long before you are awake. Babies tend to be born before dawn. Listen for cheeping. Kits sound like baby birds, and hearing them is one way to tell if the mother has given birth. You can also tell by seeing movement in the nest, or if the doe has a little blood on her nose. The doe will clean the hutch to ensure no predators smell the blood or other scents and investigate. Inspect the litter after they are born. Remove any dead kits. Do this daily to check for dead kits. If you have bred multiple does at one time, you can foster kits with other mothers if one has too many and another has too few kits, just make sure to mark the fostered kits with either nail polish on their toe or permanent marker in their right ear to be able to tell them apart from the foster mother's kits. Seek veterinary care. You may want to keep your pregnant doe under veterinary care while she is pregnant. Your vet can assess the doe's health and the state of the pregnancy. There can be complications with any pregnancy. Keep an eye on you pregnant rabbit and take her to the vet if she has not given birth by 32 days. If the pregnancy goes to long it could result in a dead litter. Feed the doe more. Once the kits are born, give her as much dry food as she likes, as feeding kits will drain her. Don't stop with her vegetables, but don't increase them. If you increased the food during the last week of pregnancy, don't increase again until 3-4 days after giving birth. Stop completely if her droppings become loose. Know how to treat the mother. If the doe is happy for you to stroke her and is acting normally, and you have a very good relationship with her, it might be a good idea to let her out for a little exercise. You should let her out for about an hour if she is used to it. This will give you a chance to inspect the nest and remove any dead kits. Be careful if you attempt to go near the nest if the doe doesn't trust you or gets upset. Some people say the doe will abandon the kits if you touch them, but others claim you can handle the babies without the mother being upset. Check the temperature of the nest. The temperature of the nest box should be around 100 degrees during week 1. If the nest is good and the cage temperature is 60-75 degrees, it will be fine. If the nest is too cold, the kits can freeze. Check on the kits daily. You want to check the kits during the day and night. Check them while they are feeding so you can make sure they are feeding normally. If they are not, you may need to give them supplementary feed. You also want to make sure they are eating well and gaining weight at the proper intervals. Checking them multiple times daily can also help you catch any kits that have wandered out. If they are left unattended outside the nesting box, they can freeze and die. Clean the hutch and box. Poor conditions can cause kits to die. You want to make sure the nesting box isn't overrun with urine and feces, and you want to make sure the hutch and outdoor run is clean and hygienic. Sometimes mothers can defecate a lot, which may attract flies. These flies can cause infections in young kits. Change the nest material a week after the litter is born. Keep an eye on the litter the days after changing the hay. Kits have a tendency to leave the nest box after changing the hay, and if it is cold, they can freeze. Continue changing the hay every few days. Remove the box after 3 weeks. Replace the paper when used as needed. Keep the doe's routine normal. Let your doe out during the day, but keep in mind that she will have lost hair on her stomach and chest, and putting her on wet grass or out in the cold can be unwise. Wean the babies at 6-8 weeks. Remove the doe from the litter at 7 weeks. Put out food so that the kits can feed freely, ensuring that they get enough feed. At 8 weeks, move the kits into individual cages or in pairs. You can also move all the does to one cage and the bucks to another. The period of weaning can be stressful for the mother and kits. Make sure that they are all have enough water and food. You can also add probiotics to the water, to help with the digestive health of the rabbits. | Decide why you want to breed rabbits. Research available rabbit breeds. Choose the right rabbits to breed. Breed your rabbits at the proper age. Ensure that you will have homes for the kits (babies) before you breed. Breed from healthy, happy rabbits only. Put the doe in the buck's hutch. Leave the breeding pair together for half an hour. Feel the abdomen of the female to determine if it is pregnant. Provide plenty of extra hay and bedding. Give the doe peace and quiet. Expect the mother to give birth 28-33 days after breeding. Seek veterinary care. Feed the doe more. Know how to treat the mother. Check the temperature of the nest. Check on the kits daily. Clean the hutch and box. Keep the doe's routine normal. Wean the babies at 6-8 weeks. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-Romaine-Lettuce | How to Cut Romaine Lettuce | To cut romaine lettuce, first chop the head of romaine in half lengthwise. Cut the cores out by making a triangle-shaped cut at the bottom of each half. Then cut each half into quarters lengthwise so you have 8 thin sections of romaine. You can chop the sections crosswise to make bite-sized pieces for salads, slice the sections into thinner strips, or use your hands to tear the lettuce into bite-sized, irregular shapes. | Chop the head of romaine in half, lengthwise. Holding the lettuce steady in one hand and your knife in the other, chop lengthwise down the middle of the head of lettuce. You want two long halves of lettuce. For easy cutting, use a chef's knife and start by pressing the pointed end of the chef's knife through the open, leafy end of the head. Then, push down and pull back, making cuts until you slice through the core and have two roughly even halves. Cut the cores out of each half in the shapes of triangles. To remove the cores without wasting any of the lettuce, slice them out of each half using two angled cuts. Using the pointed end of a chef's knife, make two cuts, about 2 in (5.1 cm) deep at roughly 45 degree angles at the base of the half. Remove and discard the triangle-shaped core. Slice each half into quarters, lengthwise. Flip each half of the head over, so the cut side is down, and slice them lengthwise into four more sections. You should now have 8 sections of cored romaine lettuce, roughly the same width, ready for chopping into smaller pieces according to your needs. Chop the lettuce crosswise into bite-sized pieces for salads. Hold one of the quartered halves of lettuce at either end with one hand, cut-side down, and cut crosswise from the leafy open end back to the base into roughly 1 in (2.5 cm) sections. Scoop up the cut lettuce into a bowl and repeat with the other half. Bite-sized, evenly-shaped pieces will give you a uniform and aesthetically pleasing look for a Caesar or other kind of salad. Shred the lettuce with a knife into thin ribbons for wraps or salads. With your knife in one hand and one of the quartered halves of the lettuce in the other, slice the lettuce into very thin, ⁄ 4 in (0.64 cm) ribbons. Finish cutting the head by repeating this process on the other quartered half. Lettuce shreds are a versatile option for salads, wraps, and sandwiches. Or, shreds make a beautiful bed for fish and chicken dishes. Slice a lot of lettuce into thin shreds using a food processor. If you are making lettuce shreds for a restaurant or a dinner party, you might want to use a food processor to get the job done quickly and efficiently. To shred in a food processor , feed the ⅛ sections one a time through the feeding tube into the slicing blade of the processor. Use a pusher to get the lettuce through the blade, don't try to push it through with your fingers. Don't use a blender or the in-bowl spinning blade of the food processor for shredding lettuce because instead of slicing it, it will make it mushy. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized, irregular shapes for salads or sandwiches. If you like the way ripped leaves look, simply hold each ⅛ cut section in one hand and tear off little bite-sized pieces with your other hand. There are no rules or guidelines to follow; you can tear it any way you like. There's a myth that says if you tear lettuce instead of cutting it with a knife, it won't turn brown because tearing is less damaging to the cells of the lettuce. There is no scientific evidence to back this up, yet people still prefer to tear their lettuce anyways. | Chop the head of romaine in half, lengthwise. Cut the cores out of each half in the shapes of triangles. Slice each half into quarters, lengthwise. Chop the lettuce crosswise into bite-sized pieces for salads. Shred the lettuce with a knife into thin ribbons for wraps or salads. Slice a lot of lettuce into thin shreds using a food processor. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized, irregular shapes for salads or sandwiches. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Attract-a-Smart-Teenage-Girl | How to Attract a Smart Teenage Girl | If you want to attract a smart girl, it's best to be yourself and get to know her well. Don't try to put on a front, since a smart girl will see right through this. Just be confident in who you are and be nice to her so she'll see you're genuine. Try to find out things you have in common and start a conversation with her about them. You can talk about music, TV shows, your favorite classes, and mutual friends you have. Make eye contact with her, smile, and give her compliments to show that you like her. Once you've talked a few times, ask her to hang out sometime or study together so you can get to know each other more. | Dress nicely. This doesn't mean you need to wear designer clothing or even a specific style of clothing. However, it does mean that you should avoid wearing dirty or smelly clothing. The style can be whatever you feel suits you best. Just make sure that it is clean and not too worn out. Remember that it is important to be yourself. Choose the clothes that you feel your best in. No matter how you dress, you can still make sure that your clothes are clean and fresh-smelling. Have good hygiene. You probably aren't going to attract anyone if you don't take good care of your hygiene. There are a lot of things you can do to improve your hygiene, and doing so will improve your confidence in yourself. Shower at least once a day. Showering daily will wash away any dirt, germs, and/or bacteria that has accumulated during the day. This will also help you stay fresh-smelling. Brush your teeth at least two times per day. Carry a pack of sugar-free gum with you, and chew a piece after each meal. This will help keep your breath fresh and your teeth healthy. Wear deodorant. It can be an easy thing to forget, but wearing deodorant will help you avoid the embarrassment of body odor. If you do a lot of sports and other physically active things, have some deodorant in your bag to put on beforehand. Take good care of your hair and skin. This doesn't mean you have to look a certain way (e.g. preppy). It just means that you should put some effort into taking care of your hair and skin. Wash your face and apply moisturizer to keep it looking healthy and radiant. You don't necessarily need to wash your hair every single day but make sure that you wash it when it gets dirty and/or looks greasy. Be yourself. A smart girl will quickly see through any attempts to show off or act tough. Instead, just be who you are. Being able to be comfortable in your own skin does take some work, but most people really appreciate someone who is genuinely themselves. Sometimes it can be difficult to act naturally in front of someone we have a crush on, but just do your best. For example, if you are really involved in one of your school's clubs, don't get out of it just because you heard she doesn't think it's cool. You can also be true to yourself by standing up for yourself. For example, if someone dares you to do something bold in front of your crush, but you don't really want to do it, then don't. This will show your crush that you're mature enough to say “no” to something in spite of what others might think of you. If you are being yourself and the smart girl you had your eye on isn't interested, try to remind yourself that this isn't an indication that you aren't a good person. It may just be that you aren't her type. Be kind. You might think that the best way to attract a smart girl is to be tough and intimidating to those around you. However, unless that is really who you are, it probably isn't the case. Instead, show her that you are a kind person. If she sees you being kind to others, she may start to think of you in a different way than she did before. For example, don't allow someone to be a bully to someone that usually gets picked on. Help out people whenever you can. This can be small things. Help someone pick up their things if they drop them. Don't make jokes at other people's expense. This shows that you aren't clever enough to make people laugh without using someone else. Be confident. It's important to understand that being confident does not at all mean being arrogant. Instead being confident means showing others that you feel good about yourself and who you are. There are lots of ways to show that you are confident. For example, you can use confident body language. Make eye contact with others, smile, and keep your body language open and inviting. Stand with your arms at your side, your posture straight, and your chin up. Another way to display confidence is by speaking slowly and calmly. When you are talking to someone you are interested in, your natural reaction might be to talk more quickly than you naturally would. Try to notice how fast you are speaking, and slow it down a bit. This doesn't mean that you should speak unnaturally slow, but rather that you should avoid talking so fast that she will have a hard time understanding you. Everyone experiences a lack of confidence at some point or another. This is OK, practice pretending that you are confident whenever you are struggling. Take an interest in her life. When you are around her, show an interest in the things she likes and the things that are important to her. This will show her that you are genuine and not self-centered. For example, if she is talking about a movie that she really loves, ask her why she loves it. Don't just nod and say “cool.” If there is a particular subject she is interested in, ask her what makes her so passionate about it. For example, if she is passionate about animal welfare, you could say, “It's really awesome that you work so hard for animal rights. What got you so interested in helping in the first place?” Not only will you show her that you care, you will also learn something new about her. Show her what makes you worth her time. A smart girl will probably want to be with someone who is also intelligent. This doesn't mean you have to be a genius, but it does mean that you have to be able to keep up with her. When having a conversation with her, talk to her about the things that interest you and the dreams that you hope to accomplish. For example, if you are a huge fan of baseball, talk to her about why you enjoy it so much. For example, you can say, “My dad taught me about baseball when I was very little, and it is something that we've been enjoying together my entire life.” Don't be afraid to be open about your life with her. If you aren't able to think of something that interests you, and you don't have any dreams, then you should probably take the time to figure out who you are before worrying about attracting someone. If you want to attract a smart girl, you'll have to keep them interested. This means that you'll really have to put in the effort when it comes to talking to them. They won't find you very interesting if all you can talk about is the last football game you saw on TV. Avoid asking her in front of other people. When asking a girl out, especially if she is smart, you'll probably want to ask her when she is alone. This is because a smart girl probably won't enjoy being put on the spot. Asking her alone will give her a bit more space to think about how she wants to respond. It will also show that you are thoughtful, and want to be respectful. If you're having a hard time getting her alone, try casually asking her if you can talk to her alone for a minute. For example, if you have a class with her, try saying “Hey [insert girl's name], do you have a minute after class today? I wanted to talk to you about something.” Keep it light when you bring this up or she might get worried about what you want to talk about. For example, when you ask her to talk later, you can add in, “Don't worry! It's nothing bad or a big deal at all, I just need to ask you about something.” Keep your tone upbeat and happy. Suggest something you know she will find interesting. If you know there is something she is particularly interested in, try to make that into a date. You might get by going with a more traditional date idea (e.g. going to the movies), but a smart girl will be really impressed if you can come up with something out of the ordinary. For example, if she is really interested in art, see if there are any art shows or museum exhibitions in your area that you could take her to. If she is really into classical music, look to see if there is a symphony in your area. When you ask her out, try showing her that you really thought about it. For example, say, “I know you're a big fan of Van Gogh and I heard there is an exhibition at the museum this weekend. I'd love to take you if you'd like to go with me. Maybe we can grab some food afterward. What do you think?” Be gracious. Unfortunately, the hard truth is that you might get rejected. If you do, do your best to hide your disappointment. You will come off more confident and mature if you are able to say, “Oh, alright. Well, I understand. Have a nice a day!” than if you fly into a rage. If she says something like, “Oh, I have a boyfriend, I'm sorry” or “I'm not really interested in dating anyone right now,” you might feel tempted to backpedal and act like you weren't actually asking her out. Don't do this. It will only make you look insecure. Of course, she might also say, “yes.” This is great news, but you should still try to keep your cool. Don't start jumping up and down for joy. Instead, smile and say, “That's great! What time should I pick you up?” You don't want to give her the impression that you were convinced she would say no, even if you were. Ask her if she wants to study together. If you think you're not quite ready to go straight to asking her out, try suggesting doing something together that doesn't sound like going out on a date. This will give you a chance to spend time together, but will take some of the pressure off because it won't actually be a date. This will also give you a good chance to gauge her interest in you. When you are together, pay attention to the way she behaves. Is she behaving in a way that makes it seems as though she is interested? For example, is she making a lot of eye contact, laughing at everything you say, and casually touching your arm or your shoulder? If so, there is a good chance she is attracted to you. Asking to study for an important test together is a good way to hang out and do something productive without making it seem like it is a date. | Dress nicely. Have good hygiene. Take good care of your hair and skin. Be yourself. Be kind. Be confident. Take an interest in her life. Show her what makes you worth her time. Avoid asking her in front of other people. Suggest something you know she will find interesting. Be gracious. Ask her if she wants to study together. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fall-Back-in-Love-With-Someone | How to Fall Back in Love With Someone | If the practicalities of life have lead you to ignore your relationship, a little time and effort can help you fall back in love with your partner. Start flirting with your partner and make a point of being kind to remind you why you fell in love to begin with. Try to get into a routine of making time for each other, like going on a date every Saturday night to connect and talk about your week, try a new sport together, or play a video game with one another. Another way to fall back in love is to make sure everyone's needs are met. While it can be easy to expect your partner to anticipate your needs, you may wind up feeling frustrated or disappointed. Instead, express your wants to your partner so there's no miscommunication. Ask your partner about their needs as well to make sure you both get what you want. | Remember, in as much detail as you can, why you fell out of love. If time, location, or circumstances cut your love short, then you might be able to pick things up where they left off. You want to have a good reason to fall back in love, because there was probably a good reason you fell out of it. Do not rekindle the romance if you broke up because of manipulation or abuse, if the problems of your last relationship feel unresolved, or you're only reason to get back together is "comfort." Ask yourself if the relationship could work. Falling back in love with someone is great, but only if you're both willing to commit to the relationship. If there are hurdles in the way, such as distance, jobs, or other partners, there is no reason to fight an uphill battle. Don't, in other words, fall back in love without putting it all on the table. Don't fall back in love if you just want to be with someone comfortable again. Don't treat love like an old friend you can visit once in a while or someone will inevitably get hurt. Give yourself time to be out of love if needed. Did you every really fall out of love? If you're hurt or angry, but still want to rekindle things, you probably haven't given yourself enough time to get over them. You don't have the perspective needed to see how things are when you're flying solo. If you want to get back together, but know that you'd live if you didn't, then you should go pursue him or her. Don't rebuild the relationship just because you feel uncomfortable or awkward alone. Falling back in love will not help you get to know yourself, nor will it help your fix other problems in your life. You should want to fall back in love with them, not need them in order to feel complete. Don't force things if they don't feel right. Love is not a manufactured emotion. If you've fallen out of love and its not coming back then perhaps it isn't meant to be. People fall in and out of love all the time, and though it can be difficult, there are not always explanations. Sometimes it just happens. By the same logic, however, sometimes your feelings will just spring up naturally, renewing love where you thought there was none. At the end of the day, the best advice is to follow your gut, be honest with yourself and your partner, and hope for the best. State your needs explicitly. Don't expect a longtime partner to read your mind. If you find yourself becoming frustrated that your partner does not meet your needs or expectations, try having a conversation in which you outline those needs. For example, you may feel as though your partner does not appreciate you because she does not tell you that she appreciates you. It's quite possible that she feels appreciative and notices all of the things that you do, but she doesn't say anything about them. In this case, you might tell her, “Sometimes I feel unappreciated. It would help me feel more appreciated if you would verbally acknowledge what I have done and thank me for it.” Another example is if you feel as though your partner is no longer attracted to you because she does not typically initiate intimacy. If this is the case, tell her how you feel and explain how you would like her to act differently. Ask about your partner’s needs. When discussing your emotional needs, be sure to offer reciprocation by asking what your partner's needs are. If your partner tends to be less communicative about emotions, you may need to help her find the language to communicate her needs. Be patient and realize that she may need time to think about it before responding. If she asks for time, don't forget to follow up. When she does talk to you, really listen to and try to understand what she says. Be sensitive to your partner’s needs. Once you have shared your needs with each other, you and your partner should try to put your knowledge into action. You may even work together to create an “action plan” to implement meeting each other's needs. For example, if your partner wishes for you to verbally communicate your appreciation for her, you might set a reminder on your phone to pay her a compliment a couple of times a week. You could say things like, “thank you for planning and organizing our upcoming vacation. I know you have worked very hard to try to make everything go smoothly for the entire family” or “it really means a lot to me that you got up and made me breakfast before I left for work this morning. You do so many little things to make my life easier.” If your partner has communicated that she wishes you would initiate physical intimacy more often, try doing so. Sometimes a little extra effort towards romance can go a long way in a relationship. Don't underestimate your power to pleasantly surprise your partner. Choose to stay positive. Being overly negative can sour a relationship with anyone, but is particularly bad for a long-term romantic relationship. Keeping your communication positive and clear and maintaining a positive outlook on life whenever possible can help keep your relationship happy. Manage conflicts. Avoiding all conflicts is nearly impossible, and avoiding conflict is not always the best way to deal with them. Instead, think about managing your conflicts; this may mean avoiding them sometimes (picking your battles) and working to resolve them at other times. If you and your partner disagree about the process for managing conflicts (for example, if you want to talk about and solve the conflict immediately but she prefers some distance to cool down first), you may need to compromise. Have a plan for how you will address future conflicts, respecting each individual's preferences. Have “big picture” conversations. Often when people begin dating, they have conversations with each other about really influential events in their lives and their future dreams and ambitions. After being together for a long time, conversations may center more on who is going to pick up the dry cleaning or drop the kids off at soccer. Trying to find the time and space for big conversations about life and goals can help you feel closer to your partner again. Schedule time alone together. It can seem strange to schedule a date with your own partner, but it is important to keep your relationship a priority. Sometimes the only way to do that is to work it in to your schedule intentionally. Invite your partner out on a date, take care of any necessary details like babysitting or transportation, and make it happen. See if you can make it a routine, such as Saturday night dates. This can offer you an opportunity to connect and talk about your week. Pay special attention to your appearance for a date. If you've been with your partner for a long time, they have likely seen you at your best and your worst. While it is impractical (and perhaps unnecessary) for you to look your best whenever you're together, try getting “spruced up” before going out on a date together. Think about when you were first dating and you would spend extra time getting ready for the date so you could be sure to impress. Make time to play. Play and laughter create strong connections and reinforce relationships. If you set aside time to do things that make you feel happy—and you do them together—you will likely feel closer to your partner. Try something new and fun together, or take some time to get out and do something silly. Some new things you could try together include trying new sports, ziplining, an obstacle course, mini-golf, a video game, a board or card game, or even attending a sporting event together. Hold hands. Get back to basic with your relationship and initiate some PG-rated intimacy in the form of hand-holding. You probably held hands with your partner when you were first dating, so why not now? Simple touching outside of the bedroom can often help you feel closer and revitalize the bond between you. Flirt more and be kind. Think of love as an action. Every day, find ways to show your partner how much you care about them. Make it so that they couldn't ever forget that you love them. Remain intimate. Don't let go of your sex life because you have other demands in your life. If necessary, plan or schedule your intimate moments. Build romance into your schedule, and talk about ways to revitalize your love life if it seems to be waning. You may consider visiting a sex therapist if you have trouble solving intimacy problems on your own. Revisit your courtship. Go back to the place you met or where you had one of your first dates. If you have children now, go somewhere that you used to frequent before you had kids but haven't been in awhile. Going back to these places with your new perspective as an established couple can help you remember where you came from and appreciate how far you have come. Create traditions. Traditions can help couples (and families) establish shared experiences and viewpoints. Marking anniversaries, birthdays, or a day that is uniquely meaningful to you with a ritual or tradition can bring you together. It gives you the opportunity to reflect on past years and speculate about the future. Create a love map. A love map is a physical representation of your partner's emotional and relationship history. Even if you don't physically draw a map, you should be mindful of your partner's emotional “landscape” and try to appreciate the (often) long road that led you to be together in the end. Admire each other. The chances are that if you're in a long term relationship with someone, you admired her in the past. She had qualities that you found desirable and attractive that you may not be taking for granted. Try to take an objective step back and look at your partner through new eyes. Make a list of all of the things you admire about her; you may even decide to share this list with her later. However, the value of creating the list is to renew your admiration. You might try to encourage your partner to engage in mutual admiration as well. It may be awkward to come out and say “I think you should admire me and remember how great I am,” you could talk about your quest to admire her more completely and how you think it could help your relationship. This could prompt a reciprocation that could solidify both sides of your relationship. Establish trust. Approach your relationship with complete trust; if you assume that you trust and are trusted in return and let go of fear, jealousy, and suspicion, your relationship will benefit. While maintaining a healthy relationship may take work, trust shouldn't. If you have a reason to distrust your partner, such as a history of cheating, you may want to go to counseling together to reestablish a bond of trust. Renew your commitment. You've likely committed to your long-term partner, particularly if you are married, but it may be beneficial to renew that commitment. A renewal of vows or a formal ceremony is not necessary. You can just decide to renew your commitment and tell your partner about it. For example, you might say, “I know we've been married for 17 years, and we've been through a lot together. I just want you to know that I'm committing myself to our shared happiness, and I will do the work and the fun necessary to continue making our relationship and our life better every day.” Keep a gratitude journal. Keeping a gratitude journal has been shown to help people appreciate what they have and feel happier. Keeping a journal that focuses on the gratitude that you have for all aspects of your life, including your relationship, may help you feel happier and closer to your partner. Even if the gratitude does not directly benefit your relationship, doing something that makes you feel happier will have an influence on your relationship. Practice self-care. Taking care of yourself and feeling that your own emotional needs are being met can help you have the energy and motivation for maintaining your relationships with others. You may also feel appreciative of your partner for helping you set aside the time for self-care. Self-care does not look the same for every person. It may mean just spending time alone in quiet reflection or taking the time to participate in a hobby or sport that you enjoy. Offer your partner opportunities for self-care as well. Give her time to herself and encourage her to pursue things that make her feel fulfilled and refreshed. When you come back to each other, you'll likely have the energy and emotional space to devote more time to your relationship. Know when you have a problem. If it seems like your friendly disagreements are becoming increasingly less friendly, you're losing your desire or ability to talk to your partner, or you routinely get the cold shoulder when you try to initiate discussion or intimacy, you may need to look for marital help. Ups and downs are normal for most relationships, but if your “downs” seem like they won't go away, you may have a bigger problem. The first step is talking to your partner about your feelings, but it may be good to have a specific “solution”—such as counselling—in mind. Don’t wait to seek help. Too many couples wait until they are separated or discussing divorce before they look for help. You can seek help strengthening your relationship before your problems progresses past the point of saving the relationship. Find a therapist or counselor. Look for a therapist who specializes in marriage counseling. If you don't feel comfortable with a therapist, look for another kind of counselor such as a church or community leader, these individuals often have training in couple's counseling. Ask friends and family for referrals if you're comfortable with others knowing that you are seeking counseling. If you know anyone who has divorced recently, you might ask her if she tried counseling before divorcing and whether she would recommend a therapist. You can check the directory on the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy website or search online for “marriage counselor” plus your area. If reviews are available online, read them before selecting a counselor. Look for group classes or couples’ retreats. If you don't feel that you need counseling but would like to strengthen your relationship, look into group classes or retreats geared towards relationship building. These are often run by counselors but may be geared more towards strengthening a relationship than saving one, which might be a better fit for some couples. | Remember, in as much detail as you can, why you fell out of love. Ask yourself if the relationship could work. Give yourself time to be out of love if needed. Don't force things if they don't feel right. State your needs explicitly. Ask about your partner’s needs. Be sensitive to your partner’s needs. Choose to stay positive. Manage conflicts. Have “big picture” conversations. Schedule time alone together. Pay special attention to your appearance for a date. Make time to play. Hold hands. Flirt more and be kind. Remain intimate. Revisit your courtship. Create traditions. Create a love map. Admire each other. Establish trust. Renew your commitment. Keep a gratitude journal. Practice self-care. Know when you have a problem. Don’t wait to seek help. Find a therapist or counselor. Look for group classes or couples’ retreats. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Boxer-Braids | How to Do Boxer Braids | If you're trying to do boxer braids, first brush and part your hair down the center. On one side, gather three sections from your hairline, each no thicker than 1/2 an inch. Cross the left and right strands under the middle one. Then add a thin strand of hair to the left section before crossing it under the middle one. Next add some hair to the right section before crossing it under the middle one. Continue adding and crossing until you get to the nape of your neck. Do the other side, and finish the ends with a regular braid. | Brush and part your hair down the center. Comb your hair to remove any knots or tangles. Next, part your hair down the center. Drape the left side over your left shoulder, and the right side over your right shoulder. Use the handle of a rat-tail comb to create a neat, even part. Choose a side to start with, then clip the other one out of the way. Gather three sections from your hairline. Gather three thin sections from your hairline, like beginning a regular French or Dutch braid. Each section should be no thicker than ½ inch (1.27 centimeters). Make sure that the sections are pointing towards the back of your head and not the floor. Cross the left and right strands under the middle one. This is just like Dutch braiding or Reverse French braiding. Instead of crossing the strands over the middle one, you'll be crossing them under. This is very important. If you don't do this, then the boxer braids will end up too flat. Add a thin strand of hair to the left section. Gather a thin strand of hair from your hair line or part (depending on which side you started on). Make sure that the strand is no thicker than ½ to ¾ inch (1.27 to 1.91 centimeters). Add the strand to the left section. Cross the left section under the middle one. Give the left and middle sections a gentle tug to make them as tight as comfortable. Smooth down any stray hairs with your fingers. Add some hair to the right section, then cross it under the middle one. Gather a ½ to ¾-inch (1.27 to 1.91-centimeter) thick strand from your hairline/part. Add it to the right section, and cross it under the middle one. Dutch-braid towards the nape of your neck. Continue gathering thin strands of hair from your hairline/part and adding them to the left and right sections. Cross the left and right sections under the middle one. Try to keep the braid between your ear and center part, and angle it towards the center of your nape. The tighter you braid, the better. Don't worry, you can loosen the braids up at the end. Finish off with a regular braid. Once you reach the nape of your neck, you will run out of hair to gather into your left and right sections. Instead, continue doing a regular braid. Remember to cross the left and right sections under the middle one. Stop braiding when you have about 1 to 2 inches (2.54 to 5.08 centimeters) of hair left. Tie the braid off with a clear elastic. If you have very dark hair, you can use a black elastic instead. You can also use a colored elastic for something more fun. Do the second braid to finish the look. Use the same technique as before. This time, begin by crossing the right strand under the middle one. Continue adding thin sections of hair to each strand when crossing it over. When you reach the nape of your neck, finish off with a regular braid. Set the style with hairspray. For a boho-chic look, gently tug on the outer loops of your braid to loosen them. If you want to, you can also muss up the hair at your temples. Set the style with a light misting of hairspray. Do a unique twist on the milkmaid style. Begin with completed boxer braids. Grab the two braids and cross them behind your head. Pull the left braid towards your right temple and pin it against the existing braid. Pull the right braid towards your left temple, and pin it in place as well. Use bobby pins that match your hair color. You can cross the tails across the top of your head, or tuck them into the space between the two braids. Merge the braids into one. Do a set of regular boxer braids, but stop when you reach the nape of your neck. Gather your hair together into a low ponytail. Split it into three sections, then continue with a regular braid. Secure the braid with a hair tie. Clip your first boxer braid out of the way when you reach the nape of your neck. You can also just gather your hair into a loose ponytail and forgo doing a regular braid. Coil the boxer braids into a bun. Do a set of boxer braids as usual, but stop braiding when you reach the nape of your neck. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and tie it off with a hair tie. Twist your hair into a rope, then coil it into a bun. Secure it with another hair tie. Try a braided bun instead. Start with completed boxer braids. Gather them together and secure them with a hair tie. Twist them into a rope, then coil the rope into a thick bun at the nape of your neck. Tuck the tail under the bun, then secure it with bobby pins. Twist the braids into two mini braided buns. Have two boxer braids completed. Twist each one into a mini bun at the nape of your neck. Tuck the tails underneath the buns, then secure them with bobby pins. Do a boxer braid ponytail. Begin doing your boxer braids as usual, but stop when you reach the back of your head, just behind your ears. Gather all of your hair into a ponytail, and secure it with a hair tie. Secure the first braid with a clip while you work on the second one. Remember to remove the clip before pulling your hair into a ponytail! Try a half-up, half-down style. Dutch braid only towards the back of your crown. Secure the braids with bobby pins, then let the rest of your hair hang loose. For a more romantic look, use a curling rod to add gentle, loose curls to your hair. | Brush and part your hair down the center. Gather three sections from your hairline. Cross the left and right strands under the middle one. Add a thin strand of hair to the left section. Cross the left section under the middle one. Add some hair to the right section, then cross it under the middle one. Dutch-braid towards the nape of your neck. Finish off with a regular braid. Tie the braid off with a clear elastic. Do the second braid to finish the look. Set the style with hairspray. Do a unique twist on the milkmaid style. Merge the braids into one. Coil the boxer braids into a bun. Try a braided bun instead. Twist the braids into two mini braided buns. Do a boxer braid ponytail. Try a half-up, half-down style. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Pierce-Your-Own-Nose | How to Pierce Your Own Nose | If you want to pierce your own nose, know that you should only be doing this if you have experience. Otherwise, it'll be much safer for you to visit a professional piercer. To go through with your piercing, you'll need a fresh, hollow needle that's packaged so you know it's never been used before. Using a brand new needle will reduce your chance of getting an infection! It's important to sterilize everything you use for your piercing, so soak the needle in rubbing alcohol and then boil it in hot water. Wash your hands and put on latex gloves before you touch the sterilized needle. Remember to clean the area you'll be piercing with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol, too. When you're ready to pierce your nose, take a deep breath and quickly push the needle through your skin. As soon as you've done this, put in your piercing ring or stud so the hole can start to heal around your jewelry. | Envision your piercing. Look at various styles of nose piercing, and decide what you want. For your first home piercing, consider a simple stud or a nose ring. Think about how you're going to look with this piercing, and make sure that you know exactly what you want. Consider getting your nose pierced professionally. A professional job is usually a much safer, cleaner, and less painful experience. If you pierce your nose at home, you risk bleeding, infection, or a botched job. On the other hand, it can be fulfilling to do the piercing yourself. Buy the jewelry. You can find piercing studs, rings, and bars in jewelry stores, tattoo parlors, and novelty shops. Try searching online if you know exactly what you want. Make sure that you're buying sterile, unused jewelry, and consider starting with something small. Make sure you have the right size, length, and thickness. Do not use a ring, an earring, or anything that has been used before. Be aware that some people have allergies to certain metals. Nickel allergies are the most common metal allergy, and may cause a painful rash. Gold, cobalt, and chromate are other common sources of metal allergy. If your skin looks cracked or blistered after the piercing, you should remove the piercing and see a doctor as soon as possible. Consider using titanium jewelry, or stainless steel – anything that will not easily corrode. Look for metals that are free of nickel: 14-24 karat yellow gold, sterling silver, copper, or platinum. Polycarbonate plastic is usually safe to use. Wait until your skin is clear. If you try to pierce over (or near) an infected skin blemish, the piercing itself will face a higher risk of infection. Thus, if you have any acne or blackheads, wait a few days or weeks until the rash recedes. Wash your face regularly, and consider using a pore-cleansing (or medicated) facial scrub. Prepare the needle. Be sure to use a fresh needle; if it isn't pre-packaged, then you can't be sure that it hasn't been used before. Use a hollow needle – these are more effective. Use a thin gauge, between 20G (.81mm) and 18G (1.0mm), and make sure that the hole is not smaller in diameter than your jewelry. Take the needle out of the packaging, when you are ready, and be sure to sterilize it before you put it into your skin. A safety pin, a pushpin, an earring, or a sewing needle will make the piercing more prone to infection; it can be hard to properly sterilize these objects. The point may also be too dull to pierce, which can tear the tissue and put too much stress on the piercing. Don't set the needle down anywhere, lest it gets contaminated. If you must set it down, use a clean tissue or a sterilized tray. Sterilize everything. This includes the needle, the jewelry, and any other tools that you will handle during the piercing process. Soak the needle in rubbing alcohol, and then boil it in hot water. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap, and then put on latex gloves. Do not touch anything that has not been sterilized. Change the gloves every time you touch your nose. Put on a fresh pair of gloves just before you do the actual piercing. Mark your nose. Use a sharpie to make a small dot on your skin where you want the stud to go. Look in the mirror and make sure that it's right. If the mark is too low or too high, wash it away and adjust it. Draw and redraw the mark until you are completely satisfied. Clean the area before piercing. Dab a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol, then wipe down the area that you plan to pierce. Watch out for your eyes: the alcohol will sting. Consider using an ice cube to make the area numb. Hold the ice against your nostril for up to three minutes, until you can't feel the tissue. Be aware that this might make your skin tighten up, which could make it more difficult to pierce. Use a piercing clamp. If you have a piercing clamp, tighten it so that it secures the area that you plan to pierce. Consider buying a clamp if you don't have one already. The clamp should hold the space open so that you don't poke the inside of your nose or your finger. Calm yourself. Take a deep breath before beginning. If you are shaking, take a moment to relax and find your center. Take solace in the fact that a nose piercing is relatively simple, as piercings go. There is not much skin or fat to pierce in your nose, so the procedure is straightforward and the pain is relatively minimal. Pierce your nose. Look in the mirror, and line up the needle with the dot that you marked. Take a breath, and then do it quickly. Push the needle in perpendicular to the surface of your skin, and take care to slide straight through the tissue. You will feel pain, but it will be temporary. Remember: the more quickly you perform the piercing, the more quickly it will be over. Try not to poke the inside of your nostril. If you are piercing the side of your nostril, you don't want to push too deep – or it will be more painful. Immediately insert the ring or stud. It's essential that you're quick about it. The wound will begin to heal as soon as you remove the needle, meaning that the hole will begin to close. You want the hole to heal around your jewelry so that it's a natural fit. If you wait too long, you will have pierced your skin for nothing! Clean the piercing twice a day. Use a sterile saline solution, a 50/50 water-and-soap solution, or hydrogen peroxide. Twice a day, saturate a Q-Tip or cotton swab with the cleaning solution, then let it soak into the pierced area for a few minutes. Wipe your piercing from inside and outside your nose. If you've given yourself a nose ring, rotate it slightly each time you clean it. If you are especially worried about infection, it's okay to clean the piercing as often as every few hours. Avoid cleaning too often, however, if you're using a particularly harsh cleaning agent. Repeat this process every day until the piercing heals. Your nose will be swollen and sore for a few days after the job, but it should feel normal before the week is over. Be aware that the piercing may take as long as 3-4 months to completely "heal". Be aware that hydrogen peroxide may disrupt scarless wound healing. Many piercing professionals advocate the use of this chemical as a cleaning agent, but you should be aware of the risks. Avoid infection! Always wash your hands before handling the piercing, and clean it regularly. If you are fastidious about cleaning the piercing, and you were careful to sterilize all of your equipment, you shouldn't need to worry. If, however, your piercing is still red and painful a week later, there's a chance that the wound has become infected. Seek medical advice before it gets worse. Consider using antibiotics like Neosporin and antibacterial soap to protect the wound. These products can seriously reduce the risk of inflammation. If you don't clean your piercing regularly, you may need to use heavy-duty prescription antibiotics – which can be costly and questionable for your health. Don't remove the piercing for too long. If you take it out for longer than a few hours, there's a chance that the hole will close up. The skin of your nostril heals very quickly, and you might have to pierce it again if the stud no longer fits. Leave your stud in for at least three months before changing it out with something else. Ask for advice. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask around at your local piercing parlor. Although you didn't get your piercing done there, they will probably be willing to give you advice if you ask nicely. If you have any medical concerns, don't hesitate to visit your doctor. | Envision your piercing. Buy the jewelry. Wait until your skin is clear. Prepare the needle. Sterilize everything. Mark your nose. Clean the area before piercing. Use a piercing clamp. Calm yourself. Pierce your nose. Immediately insert the ring or stud. Clean the piercing twice a day. Avoid infection! Don't remove the piercing for too long. Ask for advice. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Eliminate-Odor-from-a-Car-Air-Conditioner | How to Eliminate Odor from a Car Air Conditioner | To eliminate odor from a car air conditioner, sit in the car, but make sure the car, AC, and fan are all turned off. Spray a disinfectant spray into every vent, including the vents on the dashboard, near your feet, and in the backseat. Once you've done that, turn the car on and the AC to max power. With the car running, spray the disinfectant into the re-circulation vent, then switch the AC from max power to full fan mode to prevent additional moisture from coming in. Leave the car running for about 5 minutes. | Purchase a mold and mildew fighting disinfectant aerosol spray, such as a specialty duct cleaner. Specialty sprays may be the best bet for serious odors, but for smaller problems (or to stay ahead of potential smells) you can use an over-the-counter disinfectant spray like Lysol. Alternatively, make your own all-natural spray with a vinegar and water. Mix up one part white vinegar with three parts water, then put it in an old spray bottle or solvent sprayer. While vinegar isn't the most pleasant smell, it will fight the mildew naturally and it will fade off quickly. Throw in the juice from half a lemon to get a slightly fresher and longer lasting scent. Turn the car, fan, and the AC all the way off. Flick both switches into the off position and make sure the car isn't running. Spray your disinfectant into every single vent. Make sure you get in the backseats and hit the vents at your feet, which often pump the most air. There are also vents on the dashboard, and usually one on the pointing on the back windshield as well. Keep the doors closed as you do this. You want the cleaning fluid to get in the system. Turn the car on and the AC to max power, full blasting fan. This will start to circulate air around the system for you, getting your cleaning solution around the AC system. Keep it on this "Max" setting at first to kick the system into gear. Find your re-circulation vent and spray into it generously, with the AC still running. You can find your re-circulation vent by checking your manual. It is often on the drivers side floor, near the console, or in the trunk. The little button with arrows pointing a circle tells your car to stop taking air from the outside, and instead recycle the air from the inside. Press this button if you have it, then spray down this vent to make sure your cleaning fluid is staying in the system. Switch the AC from "max" to full fan mode. You want to be blowing more air, not cooling more air. This should prevent additional moisture from coming in. For serious issues, lift the hood, replace the cabin air filter and spray down all the intake lines. If you have nasty odors coming from the car and no way to stop them, grab your owner's manual and lift the hood. The AC system is back towards the windshield, under the plastic grate and filter where (different models have different methods -- you must check your manual ), and remove the filter, cleaning and replacing when necessary. While there, spray the whole apparatus down with your cleaning aerosol to fight and kill any mold or mildew. Run the car, doors open, with the AC off and the fans on full for five minutes. This is your final "drying out," and it will prevent mold and mildew from reestablishing your old odors. Take the car to your dealer if the smell persists. If the smell still won't go away, don't ignore it. It won't get any better on its own. Take it to the dealer to make sure the smell is not the cause of something more serious, and to handle the problem before it becomes worse than just a bad smell. Turn off your AC 4-5 minutes before stopping the car. This gives the evaporator time to dry off excess moisture (key for mildew/mold growth) using the hot air from the engine. No moisture means no mold, which means no smell! Keep the fans on high as the car shuts down. With the AC off, keep the fans blasting to make sure a lot of air hits the evaporator and removes any mildew, moisture, or mold spores from taking root. Note -- this is a way to prevent further growth. It will likely not help remove the actual smell if it is already there. Blast the fans on high, doors open, once a year on a hot, dry day. This can prevent all mold from ever getting a foothold. Remember that the AC, not the fan, creates the moisture that spawns mold. The fan will just heat it up from the hot car motor (hopefully killing it) and then remove it from the AC evaporator. Spray down the ducts with disinfectant every 3-6 months if you live in a hot humid area. Warm, wet environments are paradise for mold and mildew. Furthermore, the more you use your AC, the more likely it is to grow dirty. Keep on top of the issue with regular cleanings, as noted above. | Purchase a mold and mildew fighting disinfectant aerosol spray, such as a specialty duct cleaner. Alternatively, make your own all-natural spray with a vinegar and water. Turn the car, fan, and the AC all the way off. Spray your disinfectant into every single vent. Turn the car on and the AC to max power, full blasting fan. Find your re-circulation vent and spray into it generously, with the AC still running. Switch the AC from "max" to full fan mode. For serious issues, lift the hood, replace the cabin air filter and spray down all the intake lines. Run the car, doors open, with the AC off and the fans on full for five minutes. Take the car to your dealer if the smell persists. Turn off your AC 4-5 minutes before stopping the car. Keep the fans on high as the car shuts down. Blast the fans on high, doors open, once a year on a hot, dry day. Spray down the ducts with disinfectant every 3-6 months if you live in a hot humid area. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Enjoy-a-Cigarette | How to Enjoy a Cigarette | To enjoy smoking cigarettes, experiment with different brands to find one with a taste, smell, and burn you like. Try sampling menthol and clove ciagrettes too, since they have a different flavor that you might like better than regular ones. Once you've settled on a brand you enjoy, don't forget to pack the cigarettes by smacking the box upside-down against the heel of your palm for 10 to 20 seconds, which will make the cigarettes tighter and burn slower as a result. Wait until you have 5 minutes to yourself to smoke so you can take your time with your cigarette. While you smoke, keep an eye on the ash accumulating at the tip of your cigarette and tap it off whenever a quarter inch gathers, which will save you from dropping ash on your clothes. | Pick a brand. Often, a smoker just starting out chooses lights or ultra lights. This is recommended as the nicotine content is usually in lower in light and ultra light cigarettes. Once you have a handle on how to smoke properly, try scaling yourself up to regulars. Many claim this will give you a better experiences because of the increased nicotine and fuller flavor. The only way to find out which brand you like the best is to try a variety. Experiment with it. Some of the most popular and highly rated brands include: Marlboro, Camel, Lucky Strike, Newport, and Pall Mall. Taste is somewhat subjective. You may find you dislike the taste of Marlboros but enjoy the taste of Camels. Therefore, you may have to try some trial and error before you find a brand of cigarette that's truly enjoyable for you. Consider menthol cigarettes. If you find the taste of regular cigarettes harsh, consider switching to menthols. Menthol cigarettes contain a non-tobacco additive that creates a minty taste when inhaled. Most major brands of cigarettes, like Camels and Marlboros, carry a menthol variety. If you do not like mint-flavored foods and drinks, you are unlikely to like menthol cigarettes. They carry a very strong mint flavor. If you've smoked regular cigarettes in the past, you may not like menthols. Many people who have acquired a taste for natural cigarettes strongly dislike menthols. Smoke cloves. Cloves are a common spice used in cooking and baking. Cloves can be infused with tobacco to create a flavored cigarette. If you dislike the taste of menthols and regular cigarettes, cloves can be a good in-between option. The added flavor can make them taste harsher than a regular cigarette. However, the taste is far more mild than the taste of a menthol. Cloves can be very strong, so be careful when smoking them. As they can leave you somewhat light-headed, it's not a good idea to smoke a clove when driving. Try flavored cigarettes. If you're looking for a particular taste, there are a wide variety of flavored cigarettes on the market. Cigarettes come in flavors like cherry, chocolate, orange, mango, and so on. Flavoring is fairly self-explanatory. Cigarettes are designed to taste similar to the flavor on their label. Flavored cigarettes can be a good option if you dislike regular cigarettes but also don't like cloves and menthols. Pack your cigarettes. Most brands of cigarettes benefit from a good packing. Packing your cigarettes will "tighten" the tobacco, resulting in a slower burning cigarette. Before opening the plastic film around your pack of smokes, smack the pack filter-side down onto the heel of your palm rapidly for roughly 10 to 20 seconds. Know when NOT to pack your cigarettes. Some cigarettes, American Spirits, for example, are already packed with tobacco. American Spirit actually suggests unpacking their smokes by rolling the cigarette between your fingers, filter to end, so that a pinch or so of tobacco comes out. Clove cigarettes also shouldn't be packed. Use a good lighter. BIC lighters which cost $1 at a convenience store are cheap and work fine, but they do not give the same satisfaction as using a classic Zippo lighter. Not only do the first drags of the cigarette taste different with a higher quality lighter, but you will learn to love and cherish your lighter if it's of a higher quality. Light the cigarette. Hold the filter end of the cigarette to your lips. Ignite your lighter and hold the flame just below the end of the cigarette. Puff the cigarette by inhaling gently into your mouth. Do this until the whole end of the cigarette is glowing and lit. You can rotate the cigarette as you light it if it isn't evenly lit. Smoke unrushed. When smoking, be sure that you are not rushed, that you will not be bothered, and that you are either alone or with people you like. This will allow you to enjoy your smoking time that much more, especially if you have smoking buddies with you. Inhale your cigarette. When putting a cigarette up to your lips, it should not pass your teeth. Put the lit cigarette up to your lips, then suck the smoke gently with a long steady intake into your lungs, hold the smoke there for a second, then inhale normally, through your mouth, drawing air into your lungs. This helps to reduce mouth cancer also. When inhaling be sure not to hold the smoke in your mouth and exhale quickly. This is called "bum puffing" and will taste a lot worse than a proper inhale. Some recommend wetting your lips with your tongue slightly before putting the cigarette to your mouth, so the cigarette doesn't stick to your lips. Exhale the smoke. After inhaling, keep the smoke in your lungs for a short while then exhale. Smoking a cigarette is not like smoking marijuana; you will not get high from inhaling and waiting until you nearly pass out to exhale. Instead, breathe in normally lung capacity , hold it for a moment, then exhale. Ash properly. The cigarette should be ashed whenever the ashes get to the length of about a 1/4" inch or more. There's no precise length at which one should ash a cigarette, so use your best judgment. Ash the cigarette in an ashtray if there is one available. To ash, tap the cigarette lightly on the ashtray, or if outside and not near an ashtray, shake the cigarette swiftly with your fingers. Don't aggressively flick your ashes away. Extinguish your cigarette. Once the cigarette is down to just before the filter, extinguish it. When outdoors, throw the butt down near you, and step on it, twisting your foot on top of it before removing your foot to ensure it has gone out completely. When putting a cigarette out in an ashtray, hold the cigarette vertically, lit end down. Push and grind the cigarette into the tray until there's no sign of glowing heat. Make sure to throw the cigarette in a bin if outside. Do not leave it burning on the ground, as this poses a fire hazard. Don't keep smoking the cigarette once it gets closer to 8mm to 12mm close to the filter. The smoke will get hot at that point. Hold the cigarette properly. Hold the cigarette between your index and middle finger, somewhere on the filter. Exactly where to hold it depends on what's comfortable for you. Be wary of the lit end of your cigarette when holding it idly. It is considered bad etiquette to burn someone or something with your cigarette. Don't gesture with the cigarette. If you have to point or gesture toward something while talking, you use your other hand. The hand holding the cigarette should be relatively still except when bringing the cigarette to and from your lips. Ask before you light up when on someone else's property. If you're in someone's backyard, or in their car, don't light a cigarette without asking. If someone doesn't want you smoking on their property, be respectful of this. Manage your butts responsibility. Don't throw cigarettes into trash cans without fully extinguishing them, as cigarettes are a fire hazard. Don't thoughtlessly throw finished cigarettes onto the ground. That is littering. Also never throw butts out of a car window as this starts fires and is illegal!. Your finished cigarette should be extinguished into an ashtray or hard surface, and then thrown away. | Pick a brand. Consider menthol cigarettes. Smoke cloves. Try flavored cigarettes. Pack your cigarettes. Know when NOT to pack your cigarettes. Use a good lighter. Light the cigarette. Smoke unrushed. Inhale your cigarette. Exhale the smoke. Ash properly. Extinguish your cigarette. Hold the cigarette properly. Don't gesture with the cigarette. Ask before you light up when on someone else's property. Manage your butts responsibility. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Request-a-Duplicate-W%E2%80%902 | How to Request a Duplicate W‐2 | To request a duplicate W-2, contact human resources or payroll at your work and ask for a new copy. If you're unable to get a duplicate W-2 from your employer, call the IRS and give them your employer's name, address, and contact information. Then, wait for the IRS to contact your employer and have a duplicate W-2 sent to you. | Check if you can access your W-2 online. Many employers have online payroll systems where you can view your W-2s and other important financial information. Try logging on to your payroll account and see if you can download another copy of your W-2. If you're not sure how to access your online payroll system or how to find your W-2, check with your employer or someone in the payroll office. Ask your employer for a duplicate W-2. If you lost, misplaced, or never received your W-2 form, ask your employer for a copy. This method is often the easiest and quickest way to get a copy of a W-2 if you can't download a copy. Contact human resources or the person in charge of payroll for the company to send you a copy of your W-2 form. Update your address with your current employer. If you've moved during the year, it's possible that your W-2 went to your old address. Give the employer your correct address for a duplicate W-2. Sometimes employers can send you a copy of your W-2 electronically, so ask about this option if you would like to get your W-2 form faster. Wait to receive your W-2. Contact the Social Security Administration if your employer does not send you your W-2 by February 14th. You may request a microprint copy of a W2 if a copy of a W2 is needed for a Social Security matter, such as an SSA earnings investigation. Determine if you need to call the IRS to get a copy of your W-2. Your first action should be to call your employer if you have not received your W-2 by the end of January. If your attempts to get your W-2 from your employer have failed, then you should call the IRS. Prepare to answer some questions before you call the IRS. To make it easier and quicker to talk to the IRS about your missing pay stub, you should spend a few minutes preparing before you call. You can find your employer's information on your final pay stub or earnings statement. You will be asked to provide the following information: Your name Your address Your phone number Your Social Security number Your employer's contact information Your employment dates An estimate of the wages you earned for the tax year and the federal income tax withheld Call the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at (800) 829-1040 if you do not receive your W-2 by February 14th. If your employer still has not sent you your W-2 by February 14th, you will need to contact the IRS. Remember to be prepared to provide the IRS with the following information about your employer: Your employer's name Your employer's address, including the city, state, and zip code Your employer's phone number File your return using alternative forms. You will still have to file a tax return even if your W-2 is missing or late. To do so, you must include Form 4852 with your return, known as a “Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement.” Form 4852 will require you to estimate your income and withholdings taxes. File a 1040X if needed. If you receive your missing W-2 forms after you file your tax return using the Form 4852 and the information differs from what you reported on your return, you must amend your return. To amend your return, you will need to fill out a US 1040X Tax Return form, “Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.” Use Form 4506 to order a copy of a previous year's tax return from the IRS. The IRS keeps copies of W-2 forms from your previous tax years. To get a copy from the IRS you must order a copy of your entire tax return by using Form 4506. This service is available for W-2s issued during the past 10 years. There is a $50.00 charge for each return that you request. If you use a Form 4506 to request a previous year's tax return, you will only get a copy of your actual W-2 if you filed your taxes on paper that year (as opposed to e-filing). Fill out a Form 4506-T if you just need wage and earning information. Form 4506-T is the Request for Transcript of Tax Return. This form is a good option if you just need certain information from your W-2 form, such as your wages and earnings. You may also need a Transcript of Tax Return to keep a personal income record or to verify employment. Be prepared to provide the IRS with your name or names as they are shown on your tax return, Social Security number, and your current and past addresses. Use the online IRS tool called “Get Transcript” to view or print W-2 forms from previous years. The “Get Transcript” tool is another way that you can access your tax returns from previous years. Before you can access your W-2 forms using the “Get Transcript” online service, you must create a login. Be prepared to provide the IRS with your Social Security Number and other personal information, such as your address. Call the Social Security Administration to get a copy of a W-2 form for a Social Security matter. You can reach the SSA by calling by calling 800-772-1213. This may be necessary if you need a W-2 form for a Social Security-related matter, such as a Social Security Administration earnings investigation. You may contact the Social Security Administration to request a microprint copy of a W-2 form. You can also visit the Social Security Administration's website for detailed instructions on how to obtain wage information. Pay any fees that are required to obtain your duplicate W-2 forms. Copies of W-2 forms are free from the Social Security Administration if you need them for a Social Security-related matter. If you do not need the W-2 forms for a Social Security-related matter, you will have to pay a $37.00 fee. Examples of Social Security-related matters include an earnings investigation by the Social Security Administration or an earnings discrepancy in connection with processing a Title II or Title XVI claim. Examples of non-Social Security-related matters include filing federal or state tax returns, establishing residency, or providing income information for workers' compensation. If you do not need the W-2 for a Social Security-related matter, then use one of the other methods to obtain your W-2. | Check if you can access your W-2 online. Ask your employer for a duplicate W-2. Update your address with your current employer. Wait to receive your W-2. Determine if you need to call the IRS to get a copy of your W-2. Prepare to answer some questions before you call the IRS. Call the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at (800) 829-1040 if you do not receive your W-2 by February 14th. File your return using alternative forms. File a 1040X if needed. Use Form 4506 to order a copy of a previous year's tax return from the IRS. Fill out a Form 4506-T if you just need wage and earning information. Use the online IRS tool called “Get Transcript” to view or print W-2 forms from previous years. Call the Social Security Administration to get a copy of a W-2 form for a Social Security matter. Pay any fees that are required to obtain your duplicate W-2 forms. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Spaghetti-Squash-in-Microwave | How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in Microwave | To cook spaghetti squash in a microwave, start by cutting the squash in half and scooping out the seeds inside. Then, place the squash cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish and fill the dish up with 1 inch of lukewarm water. Next, microwave the squash on high for 12 minutes. If your microwave doesn't rotate on its own, turn the dish 180 degrees after 6 minutes. Once the squash is done, let it cool for 15 minutes before serving. | Wash the squash. Rinse the squash under cool, running water. Scrub it gently with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or grime. Dry the spaghetti squash thoroughly after cleaning it. If the squash is still wet, it may slip around as you attempt to cut it, which could cause you to accidentally cut yourself. Cut the squash in half. Saw the squash in half lengthwise, working from top to bottom. To make it easier to keep the squash from rolling around on the cutting board, slice away the top or bottom first. Stand the squash on its now flat end and cut it as it stands. Use a large, heavy kitchen knife. The knife can either be serrated or smooth-bladed, but it needs to be sturdy and sharp either way. Dig out the seeds. Use a metal spoon to scrape away the seeds and stringy pulp. Continue scraping until the inside is clean. You could also use a melon-baller or metal ice cream scoop to remove the inner pulp. Place the squash in a baking dish. Position the cut squash in microwave-safe baking dish with the cut-sides facing down. Use a dish that is small enough to fit inside your microwave but large enough to fit both halves in a single, flat layer without any overlap. Fill the dish with a little water. Pour about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of lukewarm water into the dish and around the spaghetti squash halves. Microwave for 12 minutes. Cook the squash on high until done. If your microwave rotates, you do not need to turn the squash at all during the cooking process. If it doesn't rotate, pause the microwave after 6 minutes, turn the dish 180 degrees, and finish microwaving for the remaining 6 minutes. The squash is done when the exterior is soft enough to be pierced with a fork. Let cool for 15 minutes. Wait until the squash is cool to the touch before attempting to serve it. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish. Rest each half of the spaghetti squash cut-side down. Keep the halves flat and in a single layer. If your dish is too small to fit both halves, microwave each half one at a time rather than piling them on top of each other. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Seal the wrap around the mouth of the dish. Leave a small gap of space between the plastic wrap and one side of the dish to allow some, but not all, of the steam to vent. Make sure that the plastic wrap is microwave-safe. Many types and brands are, but not all. Cook the squash for 7 to 10 minutes. The squash is done when you can pierce the exterior with a fork. If your microwave does not rotate, pause the cooking every 3 minutes and turn the squash 90 degrees each time. Otherwise, it may not cook evenly. Remove the plastic wrap and let sit. Use tongs to carefully pull the plastic wrap off the dish, starting with the side opposite you so that most of the trapped steam escapes away from your direction. The built-up steam can burn you if you aren't careful. Allow the squash to sit for 10 to 15 minutes or until it becomes cool enough to handle. Pierce the squash instead of cutting it. Use a sharp paring knife to pierce the spaghetti squash in 10 to 15 places, spacing the cuts evenly apart. It is very important that you pierce the squash before microwaving it. Otherwise, it could overheat and explode in the microwave. Piercing the squash can be difficult, and you may need to use a forceful, stabbing motion to successfully work the knife through the exterior. Work carefully, however, so that you do not accidentally cut yourself in the process. Do not follow the preparation instructions for cutting the squash. Microwave the squash for 10 to 12 minutes. The squash should be soft enough to pierce with a fork when done. If your microwave does not have a rotating turntable inside, rotate the squash 180 degrees after 5 or 6 minutes to make sure that it cooks evenly. Let it cool for several minutes. You do not need to it to be cool to the touch, but allowing the squash to cool down for a few minutes will give it time to release some of the hottest steam and liquid through the cut marks. Cut the squash open. Use a sharp knife to cut the squash open lengthwise, from top to bottom. Wear oven mitts or hold the squash with a towel as you do this. It will still be hot. Cutting the squash open should be very easy. If it isn't, you may need to microwave it for another 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape out the seeds. Dig the seeds out with a metal spoon. The stringy pulp connected to the seeds should also come out, but be careful to avoid scraping out strands of flesh. Scrape out the inside of the squash. With the flesh-side facing up, use a dinner fork to scrape the flesh of the squash away from the shell and toward the hollowed out center. Move around the entire perimeter of the shell, gently pulling the flesh away in spaghetti-like strands and "fluffing" those strands toward the center as you work. If you have difficulty doing this with one fork, use two. One fork can be used to hold the squash in place while the second is used to scrape away strands of flesh. Dump the strands of squash out onto a serving dish. Use the fork to gently lift and pull the strands of flesh completely out of the shell and onto the platter. If the shell is still hot, you may need to hold it with oven mitts or a kitchen towel. Dress with melted butter, salt, and ground black pepper. Add these ingredients to the platter and use two forks to gently toss them into the spaghetti squash. You can serve spaghetti squash in a variety of other ways, as well. For instance, if using it as a substitute for actual spaghetti, you could add a tomato-based sauce and Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you could also toss it with a 2 to 4 Tbsp (30 to 60 ml) of fresh chopped herbs, like basil, parsley, or chives. Finished. | Wash the squash. Cut the squash in half. Dig out the seeds. Place the squash in a baking dish. Fill the dish with a little water. Microwave for 12 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Cook the squash for 7 to 10 minutes. Remove the plastic wrap and let sit. Pierce the squash instead of cutting it. Microwave the squash for 10 to 12 minutes. Let it cool for several minutes. Cut the squash open. Scrape out the seeds. Scrape out the inside of the squash. Dump the strands of squash out onto a serving dish. Dress with melted butter, salt, and ground black pepper. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Trim-Brussels-Sprouts | How to Trim Brussels Sprouts | To trim and cut Brussels sprouts, start by peeling off any dried-out, browning outer leaves. Then, use a kitchen knife to cut off as much of the stalk as possible, right where the stalk and the base of the leaves meet. Rinse the sprouts in cold water, then, if you want to cook your sprouts whole, prepare them by cutting a small “x” into the bottom so the heat can distribute more evenly during the cooking process. To cook the sprouts faster, cut them in half vertically, then cut them into thin vertical slices. | Pull off any outer layers that are dried, turning brown or have blemishes. These leaves will have lost their fresh flavour and may be contaminated by bacteria and other micro-organisms that you don't want to be eating. Some stores may sell Brussels sprouts attached to the stalk. If you have this, pick the sprouts off the stalk first, then discard or compost the stalk. Don't pick them until you're ready to use them as Brussels sprouts will keep fresh for longer on the stalk. Use a kitchen knife to trim off the stalks carefully. Aim for the point where the stalk and the base of the sprout's leaves meet. Try to cut off as much of the remaining stalk on the sprouts as possible, as they can be tough to eat. If you have one, you may want to use a paring knife for more precise trimming. If any leaves come loose, you can still use them if they're green and unblemished. Wash the sprouts with cold water to remove any dirt. Even after removing any unwanted outer layers, you should make sure that the remaining leaves are clean. Check each sprout separately to be extra safe. If you have bought pre-washed Brussels sprouts, it's up to you whether to give them an additional wash or not. Just be certain to keep away any sources of cross-contamination such as raw meat products and other unwashed and uncooked vegetables. Cut an X into the bottom of the sprouts. This is helpful if you want to cook them whole. The cut should be deeper for larger sprouts. This helps the heat to reach the cores more effectively and cook them faster. Cut larger sprouts into halves or quarters. Cut vertically, from the top to the base of the sprout through the core. This distributes the core among each of the pieces so the leaves stay together. If you have sprouts of varying sizes, this ensures that your sprouts will cook evenly, whichever your preferred cooking method. You can keep the smaller sprouts whole. Slice sprouts thinly into strips for quick cooking. Cutting them in half and laying the cut half face down makes them easier to slice. The shorter or thinner the pieces are, the quicker they will cook. This is suitable for methods such as pan-frying. Toss the leaves in a coleslaw or salad. Peel off the leaves individually. Give them a rinse with cold water and pat dry before mixing with your preferred vegetables and your favourite dressing. You can also blanch the leaves beforehand by boiling them for less than 2 minutes and soaking them in ice water. Roast the sprouts in the oven. Place them in a baking dish with a little olive oil and season with salt. Let them brown and turn tender. Sauté the sprouts in a skillet or a wok. Simply fry with oil and delicious seasonings. You can also try adding in other ingredients such as onions and bacon. | Pull off any outer layers that are dried, turning brown or have blemishes. Use a kitchen knife to trim off the stalks carefully. Wash the sprouts with cold water to remove any dirt. Cut an X into the bottom of the sprouts. Cut larger sprouts into halves or quarters. Slice sprouts thinly into strips for quick cooking. Toss the leaves in a coleslaw or salad. Roast the sprouts in the oven. Sauté the sprouts in a skillet or a wok. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fluff-Pillows | How to Fluff Pillows | To fluff your pillows by hand, grab each end of the pillow and push the ends in and out, much the same way you would play the accordion. Do this several times very rapidly. If you prefer, you can fluff the pillow by hitting the sides simultaneously with your fists. You can then reshape the pillow with your hands so it sits correctly on your bed. | Grab the end of each pillow in each hand. Push the ends of the pillow in-and-out. Do this in the same way you would play a squeeze box or piano accordion, but much faster. You can then reshape the pillow with your hands to sit correctly on the bed or to fit into the pillowslips. Fluffed up pillows improve the overall look of your bedroom. They will also be more comfortable and help you to sleep better. Make sure you're not allergic to feathers or down before you sleep on, or fluff up pillows containing them, though. Feather and down is a reasonably common allergy, especially in people with asthma or other lung conditions. Hit the pillows. If the pillows haven't become too moisture laden, you can fluff them by hitting the sides simultaneously with your fists. Feather pillows are the easiest to fluff, as they have the lightest fill material. For a feather pillow, simply hitting it lightly should do the trick. Take your pillow, and whack in on your bed a few times to even it out. Squeeze the pillows. Hold the pillow at the top. Make sure the pillow is going up and down, not side-to-side like you have it when you are sleeping. Move your hands down to about the center of the pillow, and perhaps a little bit above it. Now quickly squeeze, let go, and catch the pillow. Do this around five times. After squeezing the pillows, shake them strongly, and put them on your bed again and then beat the pillow with your flat hand on every side. Put pillows in the dryer with a tennis ball. You can throw the pillows in a dryer with something like a tennis ball. Even just running the pillow through the dryer should fluff it up. You could put your pillows in the dryer once a month. Put the tennis ball in a sock, tie the sock at the end, and throw them both in a dryer for a few minutes. The pillow will be fluffed and perfect for a good night's sleep. Try this method only if you haven't been able to fluff the pillow by hand. For cotton fill pillows, put the pillow in a dryer on low for 20 minutes, as this will take the place of you hitting your pillow repeatedly. The pillows should be completely dry when you remove them, and you can fluff them more by doing the fist blows. Use a low heat or air setting. Leave the pillow out in the sun. Usually pillows lose their volume because of moisture, so the sun can help dry them and increase fluffiness. When fluffing pillows by hand (patting and molding the pillow) doesn't do the trick, you should leave your pillow out in the sun for a couple of hours. You could hang the pillows outside on a clothes line, if you have one. About three to four hours should be enough time to make sure the sun absorbs the moisture. By the way, it's also possible to wash your pillows, depending on the type of pillow. Regularly fluff your pillows. Fluff pillows daily to maintain their shape. By fluffing the pillows daily, air can circulate to keep them from getting permanently deflated. You won't have to replace them as fast. Wash your pillowcases regularly too. Who wants to sleep on a dirty pillow case? Washing your pillowcases every week is a good idea. Replace your pillow every few years. Some pillows cannot be fully restored and should be replaced. Experts suggest replacing pillows every 4-6 years, primarily for removal of dust mites. Place your pillow on a flat surface. If it has lumps, bumps or dents, it's probably time to replace it. If you wake up with a sore neck, it's probably not providing you with enough support. Once pillows have been repeatedly crushed and the stuffing is flat due to moisture (likely sweat), you probably won't be able to return them to their original fluffiness. If the pillow smells of mildew, replace it. Fold your pillow in half and then see if it pops back into place. If it doesn't, it's probably time to replace it. | Grab the end of each pillow in each hand. Hit the pillows. Squeeze the pillows. Put pillows in the dryer with a tennis ball. Leave the pillow out in the sun. Regularly fluff your pillows. Replace your pillow every few years. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Wear-an-Academic-Hood | How to Wear an Academic Hood | To put on an academic hood, unfold the garment and place it on a flat surface so that it's fully extended. Position the hood so that the velvet lining, which signifies your degree, is facing upward and out, and make sure the satin lining is visible at the front of the hood. Then, put the hood on over your head so that it's draped over your shoulders, with the pointed velvet hood resting at your neck. Use the buttons on the shoulders of your gown to fasten the hood in place, and adjust it as necessary so the colors are showing. | Determine your university’s policies for hoods. How you wear your hood will depend on your whether you put it on yourself, or a professor places the hood on you at your ceremony. If you're participating in a hooding ceremony, you may need to drape your hood over your arm or shoulder while you wait for it to be placed over your neck. Ask your university about your specific hooding timeline and instructions. Unfold your hood. Your hood will likely come folded up in a plastic bag or on a hanger. Shake out the hood so it's fully extended. Then place it on a flat surface so you can ensure that it's properly prepared before you put it on or drape it over your arm or shoulder. Turn out the velvet lining. Your hood will have a velvet lining that extends down from the top, or where you'll be putting your head. This brightly colored velvet indicates your degree, so it should be facing out. You don't want to hide the colors that show your accomplishments! Turn out the satin trim. About halfway down the velvet lining, most hoods will have a satin trim that reflects the school colors. Fold this out so that the velvet remains visible on the top half of the hood, and the trim is showing on the bottom half. Hoods will also generally include a small button and cord that you can secure horizontally across this halfway-point to keep the satin trim visible. This fold should be right below your shoulder blades when the hood is placed over your head. Place the hood over your head. An academic hood is meant to drape down your back. You should also make sure the small, pointed end of the hood, usually also lined in velvet, is laid flat at the base of your neck. Remove your graduation cap or tam when you put on your hood, as you don't want your hat to get tangled up in your hood. Secure the hood using the cord and a button or pin. Most hoods include a small cord that hangs off the triangular end that goes around your neck. Loop this cord around a shirt button or a purposefully made button inside your graduation gown to keep the hood safely in place. Once the hood has been secured to your clothing or the inside of your academic gown, you may close your robe. If you are not wearing a shirt or dress with buttons and your gown does not come with a specially made button, you can use a safety pin instead. If your hood doesn't come with a cord, or the cord breaks, use a thick needle and sturdy yarn to create a homemade cord. Be sure to use a color that won't clash with the hood, likely black. Ask a family member or friend to check the folding. You may jostle the folding when you put the hood over your head. Because it will be out of easy reach once it's down your back, you'll want another person handy in case they need to fix it. Bring your academic hood to the graduation ceremony. Your superiors, professors, and school heads will award you with your achievement by placing your earned academic hood on you during the ceremony. At some universities, you will not need to carry your hood with you. Instead, you will be expected to drop off your hood ahead of time. Follow your university's commencement instructions closely. Drape the folded hood over your arm or shoulder. You'll want your hood folded in half with the turned-out velvet lining fully visible. The velvet strip should be at the front of your arm, facing outward. The narrow, or neck, end should be facing out from your body. If the hood includes a button and cord, such as for the satin lining, be sure these are unfastened. Your professor will secure them for you during the ceremony. Carry your draped hood to the stage. You'll need to check on your program's policies to be sure you use the correct arm. Most will require you to use to the arm closest to the adorner and furthest from the audience, usually the left. Some university ceremonies, however, may want you to drape your hood over the right arm. Face away from your adorner and remove your cap. Your hat can get in the way of the hooding ceremony. Remove it and then turn your back to the adorner. This will allow your adorner to smoothly affix the hood to your robes. Allow your adorner to hood you. Your adorner will lift the hood over your head and place it on your shoulders. They will then align the cord with your neck. Your adorner will place the velvet lining along your shoulders so the hood flows smoothly down your back and turn the bottom half of the hood out so the satin lining shows. Finally, the adorner will fasten the cord across the middle of the hood to secure the fold. Purchase or rent academic regalia. Most universities will give you the option of either purchasing or renting academic regalia. For most people, renting academic regalia is more cost effective. However, if you are planning on becoming a professor, you might be expected to wear regalia as a faculty member at future events. In that case, purchasing your own regalia might be more efficient. Consult your university policies about regalia. Many universities have a specific provider of academic regalia and will not permit you to purchase regalia elsewhere. Other universities will allow you to buy or rent regalia from any provider you choose, or perhaps borrow regalia from an alumna. Always adhere to your specific school's regalia requirements so that you are allowed to participate fully in commencement exercises. Tell your regalia provider which degree you’re earning. Different types of degrees require varying academic hoods. To make sure that you acquire the correct kind of hood, inform your provider whether you are earning an Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, or Doctoral degree. An Associate's degree hood is usually worn flat against the back like a cape or cowl. Note that Associate's hoods are not as commonly worn as graduate degree hoods--you might not need a hood to be a part of your regalia. A Bachelor's degree hood is 3 feet long and does not end in a sharp point. Note that Bachelor's hoods are not as commonly worn as graduate degree hoods--you might not need a hood to be a part of your regalia. A Master's degree hood is 3.5 feet long and comes to a point at the bottom. A Doctoral hood is the longest hood at 4 feet long. It has the sharpest point and also the largest trim of all hoods. Provide your seller with the name of your institution. If you're not using the university provider, it's important to double check that your regalia adheres to school standards. Make sure that your regalia provider has all the relevant institutional information so that you match your fellow graduates. Inform your provider of your field. American universities have a standard set of colors that indicate your field of study, rather than just your degree. These fields determine the color of the velvet trim that lines your hood. European universities are not standardized in the same way as American universities. Check with your institution to make sure you are purchasing the correct academic hood. Law students, for example, wear hoods trimmed in purple, while all Ph.D. students wear hoods trimmed in royal blue. | Determine your university’s policies for hoods. Unfold your hood. Turn out the velvet lining. Turn out the satin trim. Place the hood over your head. Secure the hood using the cord and a button or pin. Ask a family member or friend to check the folding. Bring your academic hood to the graduation ceremony. Drape the folded hood over your arm or shoulder. Carry your draped hood to the stage. Face away from your adorner and remove your cap. Allow your adorner to hood you. Purchase or rent academic regalia. Consult your university policies about regalia. Tell your regalia provider which degree you’re earning. Provide your seller with the name of your institution. Inform your provider of your field. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Assemble-a-Saxophone | How to Assemble a Saxophone | To assemble a saxophone, line up the curved tip of the reed with the curved tip of the mouthpiece, then slide the ligature onto the mouthpiece and twist the screws to tighten it. Next, twist the assembled mouthpiece onto the saxophone's neck using a gentle, back-and-forth twisting motion. Then, pick up your saxophone by the bell and slide the neck piece into the body. Finally, adjust the neck strap until you feel comfortable holding the sax! | Moisten your reed by placing it on your tongue. Place one end of the reed in your mouth and allow your saliva to moisten it for about a minute. Then turn the reed around and moisten the other end in your mouth for a minute. Be careful not to cut your tongue since reeds sometimes have sharp edges. You could also just soak the reed in a cup of water for a couple of minutes. Line up the curved tip of the reed with the curved tip of the mouthpiece. Take the reed out of your mouth and place its flat side against the flat part of the mouthpiece. The thin, curved end of the reed should line up exactly with the thin, curved tip of the mouthpiece. If it's not lined up properly, the saxophone will make a squeaking noise when you blow air through it. Slide the ligature onto the mouthpiece and over the reed. Make sure that the wider end of the ligature slides on first to match the shape of the mouthpiece. Hold the reed in place with your thumb while you line the ligature up with the widest part of the mouthpiece. If the ligature is too tight to fit over the reed, loosen it by turning the screws counterclockwise. The screws should be on the thick bottom part of the reed. A little bit of the reed will extend past the bottom of the ligature. Tighten the ligature by twisting the screws. Still holding the reed in place with your thumb, use your other hand to tighten the ligature. Turn the screws clockwise until you feel a little bit of resistance. It should be just tight enough that the reed can no longer move around. Do not tighten past this point since you could damage the reed. Put the neck strap around your neck. Let the neck strap rest around your neck like a necklace. Make sure the hook is hanging over your chest at the front of the strap. Wait to make adjustments to its length until you have the saxophone attached to it. Apply cork grease to the saxophone neck as needed. Occasionally you'll need to rub a little bit of cork grease onto the cork part of your saxophone's neck. Apply a very small amount all the way around the tip of the cork whenever the mouthpiece stops sliding onto the neck easily. You can get tubes of cork grease at music stores or online. Twist the fully assembled mouthpiece onto the neck. Use a gentle, back-and-forth twisting motion to get the mouthpiece onto the neck of the sax. Twist it on until it's about halfway down the length of the cork. The flat side with the reed on it should face down toward the inside of the neck. If you're having trouble getting it on, and you've already applied cork grease, don't force the parts together. Take it to a repair shop to have it looked at by a professional. Pick up your saxophone by the bell. Picking up your sax by the upper body can cause damage to the mechanisms that make the instrument work properly. Wrap your fingers around the outside of the bell, where there are no keys, and grip this area as you lift it. Hook the neck strap onto the small loop on the back of the body. Below the octave key, about halfway down the saxophone, there's a small metal loop. Connect the neck strap to this loop by opening the hook and fastening it over the loop. Slide the neck into the body. Using the same back-and-forth twisting motion, press the neck down into the body until it's all the way on. The tip of the mouthpiece should line up perfectly with the rest of the horn and create one straight line from the reed to the bell. If you can't slide the neck right into the body, try loosening the wing nut at the top of the body by turning it counterclockwise. Do not force the neck on. Consult a repair shop if you're having difficulty getting the pieces together. Be careful to not damage the octave key built onto the neck when you're assembling. Adjust the neck strap as needed. Hold the assembled saxophone in front of you and loosen your grip on it so that the neck strap bears most of the weight of the instrument. If the mouthpiece is suddenly lower than you mouth, adjust the neck strap up. If it's higher than your mouth, adjust the neck strap down. The strap should hold the saxophone exactly where it will be while you're playing it. | Moisten your reed by placing it on your tongue. Line up the curved tip of the reed with the curved tip of the mouthpiece. Slide the ligature onto the mouthpiece and over the reed. Tighten the ligature by twisting the screws. Put the neck strap around your neck. Apply cork grease to the saxophone neck as needed. Twist the fully assembled mouthpiece onto the neck. Pick up your saxophone by the bell. Hook the neck strap onto the small loop on the back of the body. Slide the neck into the body. Adjust the neck strap as needed. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sprout-Mung-Beans | How to Sprout Mung Beans | To sprout mung beans, start by rinsing them off and putting them in a clear jar. Then, fill the jar partway with cool water so the beans are covered. Let the beans soak at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours until they swell up, and then drain and rinse them. Once you've drained all the water, put the jar in a cool, dark place for 12 hours. Finally, rinse and drain the beans again, and repeat the process every 12 hours for a few days until the sprouts reach your desired length. | Purchase whole, untreated mung beans. Do not use beans packaged in gardening packets, which have probably been chemically treated. Check the label to make sure you're purchasing whole and untreated beans which are made for sprouting and eating. Find mung beans at health food stores or online catalogues like Sproutpeople (sproutpeople.org) and Sproutman (sproutman.com). Measure out your desired amount of mung beans. Consider the size of the bowl or jar you plan to soak them in—the beans should fill about ¼ of the container. Mung beans get much bigger once they sprout, so be careful not to use too much. The yield for sprouting mung beans is about 2 to 1, meaning if you use 1 pound of seeds you'll end up with 2 pounds of sprouts. Rinse your mung beans using a colander or strainer. Run clean water over the beans until it runs clear. They may be dusty, since the majority of mung beans are grown in China and are often left to dry on gravel roads. This will help protect you from anything which might have been in the soil, like metals and toxins. It will also wash away things like mites that may have made their way into the dried beans. Place the beans in a clear, wide-mouth jar. Mason canning jars are a great option, but you can also reuse jars that held peanut butter or pasta sauce, for instance. The beans should fill up about a quarter of your container. Submerge the beans in water and cover the jar with a mesh lid. Fill the jar partway with cool water, roughly 2-3 times the volume of the beans. Then, cover your jar with some type of breathable lid. For a homemade option, you can use a piece of cheesecloth secured with rubber band. You could also punch holes into an existing metal or glass lid. You could also purchase a specialized sprouting jar, which is sold with a pre-made strainer lid. If you don't have cheesecloth or a mesh lid, you can also soak your beans uncovered in a bowl or jar. Soak the beans for 8-12 hours until they swell up. How long they have to soak will depend on the beans. Generally, larger beans will require a longer soak. You can place the jar on the countertop or in a cabinet—just make sure it's not positioned in direct sunlight. The beans should be soaking at room temperature, not in the fridge. Drain and rinse the beans through the mesh lid. Drain away the excess water through the lid of your jar by flipping it over in the sink. Then, rinse the swollen beans with fresh water and drain it again. If you don't have a mesh lid or cheesecloth, you can also hold a strainer against the opening of your jar to drain the water. Put the jar in a cool, dark place for 12 hours. Find a place that gets little to no sunlight where the beans will not be disturbed. Place the jar upside down and at an angle on a dish rack or cooling rack so the moisture can continue to be released. Although the beans should not be exposed to direct sunlight, there's no need for the storage location to be completely dark. A shadowy corner of your countertop would work well. Repeat this process every 12 hours for 2-5 days. Rinse and drain the beans through the mesh lid approximately every 12 hours (or twice a day). Return them to their dark storage spot after each rinse session. The beans should continue to grow in size and sprout thin white tails. Give the sprouts a rinse once they’ve reached your desired length. Pour the sprouted beans into a colander and give them one last rinse before draining them thoroughly. Generally, mung beans taste good when they're about ⁄ 2 in (1.3 cm) long—but it's mostly a matter of personal preference. The green shells may have started to come off the white bean sprouts at this point. You can remove some of these empty shells from the mix with your hands if you like. Spread the sprouted beans across a baking sheet lined in paper towels. Cover a baking sheet with two layers of dry paper towels, then pour the rinsed and drained beans on top. Spread them out in a thin layer with your hand and press gently to absorb any excess water. Once you've patted them dry, they are ready to be stored. Pick out any unsprouted beans and throw them away. To dry the beans even more thoroughly, cover them with another paper towel and press gently. Place the sprouts into a bowl and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Line the bowl with paper towels, then use your hands to transfer handfuls of sprouts into the container. Plan to eat the sprouts within 2 weeks. Mung bean sprouts are a great base for a chilled salad, or a classic addition to a stir-fry. | Purchase whole, untreated mung beans. Measure out your desired amount of mung beans. Rinse your mung beans using a colander or strainer. Place the beans in a clear, wide-mouth jar. Submerge the beans in water and cover the jar with a mesh lid. Soak the beans for 8-12 hours until they swell up. Drain and rinse the beans through the mesh lid. Put the jar in a cool, dark place for 12 hours. Repeat this process every 12 hours for 2-5 days. Give the sprouts a rinse once they’ve reached your desired length. Spread the sprouted beans across a baking sheet lined in paper towels. Place the sprouts into a bowl and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Cat-with-Anisocoria | How to Treat a Cat with Anisocoria | If you think your cat has anisocoria, check its eyes to see if the pupils are different in size and look for any cloudiness or changes in shape, as these are the main symptoms of the condition. Take your cat to the vet for testing so you can be certain of the diagnosis and also rule out any other problems. If your vet prescribes medication, such as antibiotics or eye drops, make sure to administer these following your vet's instructions. If it helps, set up a schedule so you don't forget to give the medication regularly. | Look for differently sized pupils. The most obvious symptom of anisocoria is differently sized pupils. Pupils should both get larger in low light and get smaller in bright light. The affected pupil may be smaller or larger than the normal pupil. Notice any changes in the appearance of the eye. An eye affected with anisocoria may undergo structural changes. The shape or position of the eyelid opening may change. The color of the eye may also be altered. The eye may become bluish or cloudy in color. You may also notice changes in the cat's vision. Monitor for any pain. The cat may show signs of eye pain. The cat may squint and rub at its face, or it may shy away when you try to touch its face. The eye may also become red, irritated, and inflamed. In some cases, the eye may have a discharge or pus. The cat may also become depressed or lethargic. Take the cat to the vet. If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, you should take it to the vet immediately. These symptoms may be connected to a life-threatening condition. Treatment is based on the underlying condition, so the vet will need to figure out what caused the anisocoria. The vet will do a physical exam and ask you about any recent trauma that your cat has undergone. You will need to give them a complete medical history and list of any medications your cat is taking. The vet will try to determine if the problem is due to a problem with the eye or a neurological problem. If they cannot figure out what is wrong, they may send the cat to a ophthalmologist. Have the cat’s eyes tested. The vet may start by checking your cat's eyes and pupils. They may check the blinking reflexes, how well the cat follows an object, and how sensitive the pupils are to light. The vet may also test the production of tears. The vet may stain the cornea with a dye to look for ulcers, scratches, or trauma. Get imaging tests done. The vet may try to determine if the problem comes from an issue with the eye or the pupil nerve. To do this, they might do a range of imaging tests, including MRI, ultrasound, CT scans, or x-rays. Expect no treatment for some conditions. Some underlying conditions that cause anisocoria are not life threatening. Because of this, it doesn't require any treatments. For example, if your cat has hypoplasia or iris atrophy, the vet may not recommend any treatments. Give the cat medication. For some underlying conditions, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications will be prescribed by the vet. These drugs will be used to treat cats who develop anisocoria due to bacterial infections and inflammation. Cats who have an underlying condition of glaucoma will be prescribed medication to treat the condition. This should help fix the pupils, too. High blood pressure may also cause unequal pupils. It can be treated with medication, such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers. Stop the cat’s prior medication. Some medications can cause problems with the pupils. If your vet determines a medication that your cat is taking has caused the difference in pupil sizes, they will take the cat off the drug. When the medication has gotten out of the cat's system, the anisocoria should clear up. Agree to surgery for your cat if necessary. If the vet finds cancerous tumors that are related to the unequal pupils, they may operate to remove the tumors. The cat will be put under anesthesia while the vet performs surgery. When removing cancerous tumors, the vet may also have the cat go through radiation or chemotherapy. Give the cat eye drops. Some underlying conditions, like Horner's Syndrome, cause the cat to have related eye symptoms, like irritation or redness. This can be treated with prescription eye drops to relieve the symptoms. | Look for differently sized pupils. Notice any changes in the appearance of the eye. Monitor for any pain. Take the cat to the vet. Have the cat’s eyes tested. Get imaging tests done. Expect no treatment for some conditions. Give the cat medication. Stop the cat’s prior medication. Agree to surgery for your cat if necessary. Give the cat eye drops. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Fleece-Blanket | How to Make a Fleece Blanket | To make a fleece blanket, start by cutting a piece of fleece fabric that's the size you want your blanket to be. For a blanket that covers a twin-size bed, make your fabric 39 inches by 74 inches. Then, simply finish the edge of the fabric using a serger or by hand stitching a blanket or whip stitch. If you want to make a no-sew fleece blanket, start by cutting out a square from each corner of the fabric and cutting fringe along the sides. Then, braid or knot the fringe to finish the edges of your blanket. | Select your fleece fabric and measure it to size. If you're making a single-layer fleece blanket, which will have a right side and a wrong side; you need just enough fabric for one layer. If you'd like to make a reversible fleece blanket, which can be used with either side up, you need enough fleece for two complete blanket-sized layers. The following size blankets will cover the top of a bed. Add a 1/2 (1.27 centimeters) - to - 1-inch (2.5 centimeters) seam allowance on all sides if you intend to stitch the edges, and don't count the selvage (machine-finished edge of the fabric) as part of the pattern: Crib: 27 inches (68.58 centimeters) by 52 inches (132.08 centimeters) Twin: 39 inches (99.06 centimeters) by 74 inches (187.96 centimeters) Full: 54 inches (137.16 centimeters) by 74 inches (187.96 centimeters) Queen: 60 inches (152.4 centimeters) by 80 inches (203.2 centimeters) King: 78 inches (198.12 centimeters) by 80 inches (203.2 centimeters) Mark your cutting line with a washable fabric marker. Trim along the line with scissors or lay the fleece flat on a cutting board and place a straight, solid cutting guide along the edge you intend to cut. Guide a rotary cutter down cutting guide, slicing through the fabric. You can also cut the fleece with pinking scissors, which automatically creates a somewhat finished-looking edge. Make sure the surface beneath you blanket is safe to possibly harm. You don't want to go leaving cuts on a nice table or countertop. Finish the edge of your fleece blanket with a serger. If you don't have a serger, you have a few other options. These include: Hand-finishing the edges with a blanket stitch or whip stitch. Finishing the edges with a decorative sewing machine stitch. Crocheting around the edge of the blanket as suggested by the Linus Project. Use a skip-stitch blade on a rotary cutter to create evenly spaced holes around the blanket's edge. Place a crochet hook through each hole, in turn. Draw the yarn through the hole toward you, perform a single crochet and chain one. Repeat. Place the right sides of the fleece pieces together. The edges don't have to line up perfectly, but they should be reasonably close. Insert a straight pin every few inches to secure the pieces together. If you can't identify the right side of the fabric, ask the staff before you leave the fabric store. You can also wash the fleece several times, then select the most attractive (least pilled) side of the fabric as your "right" side. Stitch the two pieces of fleece together on three sides. Use a uniform 1/2" to 1" (1.25 - 2.5 cm) seam allowance. You have two options for how to finish the fourth edge: Turn the blanket inside out through the open edge. Hand- or machine-stitch all the way along the final edge, securing the two pieces together. Stitch along the fourth edge, leaving a 4-inch (10.16 centimeter) opening. Turn the blanket inside out through this opening, so both right sides face out. Hand-finish the 4-inch opening with a blanket or whip stitch. Or skip the sewing entirely. Cut 1/2" to 3/4" (1.25 - 1.9 cm) wide fringe on all sides of the blanket. Tie the two pieces of fleece together, one paired set of fringe ties at a time. See below for directions. Cut out a square in each corner. That is, after you have the pieces of fabric you want to work with. Cut them to size and then cut out the corners -- around 2" (5 cm) is a good size. Corners are virtually impossible to knot or braid. This makes everything much easier and keeps you from wondering what the heck to do with those pesky edges. Mark and cut the fringe. An easy way to do this is with painter's masking tape. Mark a line down all four sides of your blanket (on the top side). Keep it in line with the depth of your corner cuts. Make your cuts. You'll want around 1 1/2" (1.9 cm) to 2" (2.5 cm) for your fringe depth. The width of each piece should be around 1" (2.5 cm). Grab your rotary cutter are start making slits down all four lengths of the blanket. Decide whether you are braiding or knotting your edges. If you're knotting, congratulations! All you have to do is double knot the top and bottom layers of fringe together. Start at one edge and grab two pieces of fringe that are laying on top of each other. Double knot and work your way around. If you're braiding, continue reading: Make slits in each piece of fringe. That's right: there will be little teeny holes in all your fringes -- that's how they'll stay braided together. Choose a piece of fringe to start with. Any will do. Use a bent paperclip (a crochet hook will work great too) and stick it through the slit of your first fringe. Then stick the paperclip through the slit of the fringe underneath. It will "hook" the second fringe and you can pull it through the first fringe. Continue pulling through and "braiding. " Once you've pulled it all the way through on your first move, your paperclip (or crochet hook) should already be through the slit of the second fringe, and you can move on to the next fringe on the top. Put the paperclip through the next slit to hook the next fringe. If you're right handed, it'll be easiest to work right to left and vice versa. The most important thing is to always alternate between using a fringe on the top and a fringe from the bottom. When you get to the corners, just keep doing the same thing. It will naturally curve around the corner. Cut the very last piece of fringe in half. Use them to tie a knot around the first fringe. Make sure to do at least a double knot and triple if the fringe is long enough. That will be the only knot on your entire blanket. You're done! And no, the edge will not unravel. As long as you've knotted the last piece, you're good to go. | Select your fleece fabric and measure it to size. Mark your cutting line with a washable fabric marker. Finish the edge of your fleece blanket with a serger. Place the right sides of the fleece pieces together. Stitch the two pieces of fleece together on three sides. Cut out a square in each corner. Mark and cut the fringe. Decide whether you are braiding or knotting your edges. Choose a piece of fringe to start with. Continue pulling through and "braiding. Cut the very last piece of fringe in half. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Celery | How to Grow Celery | To grow celery, plant the seeds in peat pots about 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost, covering them loosely with about 1 inch of topsoil and placing them in a warm area for 2-3 weeks. About 2 weeks before the last spring frost, plant the seedlings in the ground about 6 to 12 inches apart, and water the area very thoroughly. Add mulch to the soil around the plants to hold moisture and prevent weeds from growing. Fertilize the plants every 2-4 weeks, and water them regularly to keep them moist at all times. | Grow leaf celery in USDA hardiness zones 5a through 8b. Leaf celery (Apium graveolens var. secalinum) grows from a strong stalk and produces delicious leaves that are more flavorful than the leaves of other varieties. While there are several varieties of leaf celery to choose from, a few popular varieties include Par-Cel, a Dutch heirloom variety, Safir, which has a spicy crunch to it, and Flora-55, which is best at resisting bolting (flowering). Grow celeriac in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 and 9. Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum) grows an oversized root that can be harvested and eaten in addition to the stalks. A root takes about 100 days to grow large enough to be harvested and cooked. Celeriac, which likes especially cool coastal climate conditions, comes in several varieties including Brilliant, Giant Prague, Mentor, President and Diamant. Grow traditional celery in USDA plant hardiness zones 2 through 10. Traditional celery (Apium graveolens var. dulce) requires long, temperate growing seasons and takes about 105 to 130 days to mature enough for harvest. It does not like extreme temperatures and grows best with conditions under 75 °F (24 °C) during the day and between 50 and 60° Fahrenheit (10-16° C) at night. Some varieties include Conquistador and Monterey, which are ready for harvest earlier than most varieties, Golden Boy, which produces stunted stalks, and Tall Utah, which produces tall, vibrant stalks. Choose an area with full sun and/or partial shade. While preferring a temperate climate, celery also enjoys full sun if possible. However, it will grow well in partial shade as well. Choose an area with rich, moist soil. Originally a wetland plant, celery can tolerate relatively moist soil conditions that other vegetables cannot. However, make sure the planting area you choose is not prone to flooding. You may want to build a raised bed to plant your celery in. Keep in mind that some varieties of celery grow very large, harvestable roots, so make sure to build your planter deep enough if you choose to do so. Use cedar wood to build the planter bed if possible, as it does not mold when it gets wet. Test the pH of the soil. Celery varieties prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Though celery does not require impeccable drainage like most vegetables, it does require rich, healthy soil. Evaluate the soil's calcium and magnesium levels in order to determine what type of limestone to add to your soil. If the soil is low in magnesium, add dolomitic limestone. If it is high in magnesium, add calcitic limestone. Add the limestone 2 to 3 months before planting if possible to allow the soil to absorb it. After adding, check the pH again. Fertilize the soil with a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer. Mix about 4 inches (10 cm) of organic fertilizer, such as manure or compost, into your soil. Celery likes extremely rich, organic soil. This will help the seedlings grow into strong, producing plants. Start your celery seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost. You can sow the seeds in peat pots with several seeds per cell to ensure that at least 1 will germinate into a seedling. To speed up germination, you can pre-soak your seeds in water overnight. Cover with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of potting soil, but do not pat down with your fingers after sowing the seeds. Celery seeds need a lot of light to germinate. Water the peat pots to moisten the soil after planting your seeds. Place your seeds in a warm place so that the soil stays between 70 and 75° Fahrenheit (21-24° Celsius) until the seeds germinate. This should take 2 to 3 weeks. After germination, place the seedlings in a cooler indoor location so that the soil is between 60 and 70° Fahrenheit (16-21° Celsius). Carefully thin the seedlings so that there is only 1 per cell after they germinate. Transfer seedlings to the garden 2 weeks before the last spring frost. Make sure that it is not too cold outside. Celery can handle a light frost, but temperatures below 55 °F (13 °C) in the day and 40 °F (4 °C) at night for longer than 1 week can harm your celery plants. Give the seedlings plenty of space. Plant the seedlings 6 to 12 inches (15.2 to 30.5 cm) apart in rows 18 to 36 inches (45.7 to 91.4 cm) apart. You only need to dig holes slightly deeper than the depth of the peat pots cells. Pat the sides of the cells to get the seedlings to slip out without harming the roots. Place the seedlings in the ground and cover with soil. Only cover up to the first level of foliage and pat the planting area around the seedlings lightly with your hands for support. Water the planting area very thoroughly. Celery requires constant moisture, so do not allow the soil to dry out at any time. If celery does not get enough water, the stalks will be stringy and bitter. Be sure to water several times per week and increase your watering routine during particularly warm or dry spells. Add mulch to the planting area. To keep the soil cool and moist, add a few inches or centimeters of mulch made of leaves, grass, hay, or other plant material on top of the soil. Doing so also helps reduce the ability of weeds to infiltrate the planting area. Fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks. Celery plants are heavy feeders that require rich soil that must be fertilized frequently. To keep your celery plants happy, fertilize with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every few weeks from planting to harvest. Water your plants regularly. The most important aspect of caring for your celery plants is making sure that they are always well-hydrated. If they do not get enough water, celery plants will become shriveled and bitter to the taste. Blanch celery 1 week to 10 days before harvesting, if desired. Blanching consists of shielding the celery stalks from the sun to achieve a milder flavor. Cover the stalks with newspaper, a milk carton with the top and bottom removed, or any other type of paper or cardboard. You can use twine to tie the celery stalks to keep them from sprawling. While blanching is not required, it will alter the taste and color of your celery. Additionally, blanched celery is less nutritious than unblanched celery. Most people prefer the sweeter taste of blanched celery. Be aware that some varieties are "self-blanching" and don't need to be blanched. Harvest the celery stalks, leaves, and/or roots. You can begin to harvest the stalks when they reach 8 inches (20 cm) in height. Make sure to begin your harvest from the outside stalks and work inward. This allows the innermost stalks to continue to mature. Once mature, celery can sit in the ground for about 1 month as long as the soil remains a cool temperature between 60° and 75° Fahrenheit (16-24° Celsius). The longer the celery grows and the darker it becomes, the richer in antioxidants and more nutritious it will be. However, it will also become more tough and fibrous. | Grow leaf celery in USDA hardiness zones 5a through 8b. Grow celeriac in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 and 9. Grow traditional celery in USDA plant hardiness zones 2 through 10. Choose an area with full sun and/or partial shade. Choose an area with rich, moist soil. Test the pH of the soil. Fertilize the soil with a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer. Start your celery seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost. Transfer seedlings to the garden 2 weeks before the last spring frost. Give the seedlings plenty of space. Place the seedlings in the ground and cover with soil. Water the planting area very thoroughly. Add mulch to the planting area. Fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks. Water your plants regularly. Blanch celery 1 week to 10 days before harvesting, if desired. Harvest the celery stalks, leaves, and/or roots. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Suggest-Your-Relatives-Stay-in-a-Hotel-Rather-Than-Your-Home | How to Suggest Your Relatives Stay in a Hotel Rather Than Your Home | If you'd rather your relatives stay in a hotel instead of your home, you can suggest it calmly without it seeming rude. Just say something like, "We're so excited to see you. I wish you could stay here, but things are a little crazy here at the moment and we don't have the space." Have a good excuse ready, like being too busy or redecorating, so it doesn't seem like you don't want your relatives around. For a subtler option, ask where they plan on staying. For example, say something like, "It'll be lovely to see you. Where are you planning on staying?" You can also offer to help them find a hotel or suggest some good ones nearby. If you have the money, you can even offer to book their room for them to make things easier. | Let them know up front. Prime your visitors' expectations by being explicit about the fact that you don't have the room or resources to play host. That way, they'll have plenty of time to make other arrangements. The news may be disappointing, but it's more considerate than letting them find out only after they show up on your doorstep. Try cushioning the blow with a caveat: “As much as we'd love to have you at the house, we've just got too much going on this weekend.” Don't mince words or beat around the bush trying to avoid the topic. This will only come as more of a blow when you finally break the news. Drop hints that your home is unavailable. If you just don't have the heart to refuse your relatives outright, you can take the less direct route. When they first call or write to inform you of their visit, innocently ask them where they plan on staying, or mention how much work you have to do around your place. With any luck, they'll get the message without it becoming an issue. You could also try leaving things vague by saying something like “it's too bad there's no a way for us all to stay together.” Be ready to give them a good reason. Obviously, it won't do to tell your overbearing in-laws that you just don't want them around. Have an explanation lined up for why your home isn't the best option. It should be something believable and (ideally) at least partially true so that they'll be more accepting of your circumstances. Perhaps you're busy taking care of a newborn, or you're in the process of remodeling your only guest room. Avoid lying outright. Not only is it dishonest, but there's a good chance that the truth could come out later if someone were to stop by. Act unprepared. If your family surprises you with a visit, it's okay to tell them that you're simply not in a position to receive company. They might even be anticipating this response, since they decided to make the trip on little or no notice. In this scenario, they'll more than likely already have a backup plan in place, which means you'll be off the hook. Explain to unexpected guests you have too much going on to show them the attention they deserve. Stay one step ahead by recommending a nearby hotel before they ask to stay with you. Choose your words carefully. Someone less understanding might take offense if they feel like you're trying to wash your hands of them. Let them down as easily as possible. Emphasize that your request is being made out of necessity rather than preference. You don't want it to sound like your reasons are personal in any way. Try to broadcast genuine sympathy and regret in your tone. Chances are, your family knows you better than almost anyone, so they'll be able to see right through a flimsy apology. Never make someone feel unwelcome because of their personality or behavior. Make sure they enjoy their stay. The last thing you want is for your family to be in a sour mood after going out of their way to come see you. Once everyone has arrived and gotten situated, go out of your way to see that they have a good time. Show them fun things to do around town, share meals together and catch up on the details of everyone's lives. Make them feel like honored guests, not like an unwanted nuisance. Even if the visit isn't going well, remember that it's only temporary and try to power through with a positive attitude. Successfully talking your relatives into getting their own room shouldn't be used as an excuse to ignore or neglect them. If anything, you should be more eager please since they won't be around as often. Don’t invite them in the first place. In the end, there may be nothing you can do to prevent an awkward misunderstanding. If you fear that your reluctance might cause conflict, it may be best not to put either of you in the hot seat. Consider coming to them instead, or finding a more neutral way to get together, like a family vacation or reunion dinner somewhere public. Reschedule the visit for a date that's more convenient for you. If nothing else, this will give you more time to mentally prepare. There may be times when you just have to bite the bullet and make the most of it. After all, family comes first! Help them find another place to stay. Hunt down hotels in your area and find a few that look clean, safe and comfortable. Make sure the place you select is close enough to your home to allow you to easily meet up. Compile a list of potential options that you can recommend later. Try to find a place that's centrally located and surrounded by essential conveniences, like restaurants, banks, gas stations and supermarkets. Browse private condos and Airbnb rentals, as well. These tend to be more homey and inviting than the average hotel. Ask someone else to put them up. Call a sibling, cousin or in-law you're on good terms with and see if they'd be willing to open their homes to your mutual relations. Bring up pressing concerns like space, noise or privacy as a way of selling your suggestion. If they agree, it will be a win-win: family will take in family and you'll be in the clear. Work out an agreement to alternate hosting duties in the future. Offer to pay for their accommodations. Depending on the size of the party, you might be able to get everyone squared away on your own dime. Sponsoring your relatives' stay will ease some of the financial burden of their travels. It may also help defuse any resentment they may feel toward you for turning them away. Surprising your visitors with free lodging is a good way to make up for you asking them to stay somewhere else. Helping with the cost of your family's trip can also serve as a kind of unspoken apology—“Since we couldn't make it work at the house, this one's on me.” | Let them know up front. Drop hints that your home is unavailable. Be ready to give them a good reason. Act unprepared. Choose your words carefully. Make sure they enjoy their stay. Don’t invite them in the first place. Help them find another place to stay. Ask someone else to put them up. Offer to pay for their accommodations. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Baby-Bottles-That-Have-a-Milk-Odor | How to Clean Baby Bottles That Have a Milk Odor | To clean your baby bottle, try using baking soda, which will absorb any bad odors. First wash it with warm water and detergent to get rid of any milk residue. Then, fill the bottle halfway with warm water and a tablespoon of baking soda. Close the lid and shake the bottle for around 2 minutes. After 2 minutes, rinse the bottle and smell it. If it still smells like sour milk, fill a container with 1 part white vinegar and 3 parts warm water and place the open bottle in it until it's submerged. Leave it to soak overnight, then rinse it out with water and detergent in the morning. | Wash the bottle with warm water and detergent. Try to also remove any visible milk residue on the bottle by rinsing it out several times with warm water and detergent. Add a tablespoon of baking soda into the bottle. Then, fill the bottle up halfway with warm water. If you fill the bottle completely with water, it will be hard to shake up the contents in the bottle because there is no free space in the bottle. Close the bottle with a lid and shake the contents of the bottle. Shake it for about 2 minutes. Rinse the bottle and smell it. If the bottle no longer smells like sour milk, you have sufficiently cleaned the bottle. If the odor remains, soak the bottle in the water with baking soda. Find a container that can fit the entire bottle. Then, pour baking soda into the container. For each cup of water, add a teaspoon of baking soda and mix well. Place the bottle and all its parts into the container. Fill the bottle with water from the container as well. Press the bottle parts, including the nipple, with a plate or some other heavier object so the bottle parts are submerged. Leave the bottle submerged overnight and then rinse it out in the morning. Smell the bottle to confirm the odor is gone. Let the bottle air dry before using it again. Make a solution of one part white vinegar and three parts warm water. Then, fill the bottle with the solution. You can also fill a container large enough to fit the bottle and all its parts with the solution. Ensure all parts of the bottle are soaked and submerged in the solution. You can do this by pressing the parts down with a heavy object like a plate. Let the bottle and its parts soak in the vinegar solution overnight. In the morning, rinse the bottle and all its parts with water and detergent. The smell of vinegar may be present for a few minutes, but it will quickly evaporate. Check that the bottle can go in the microwave. It should be marked with a “microwave safe” label. Wash the bottle well with warm water and detergent. Make sure you rinse out all the detergent. Fill the bottle halfway with water. Then, separate the bottle parts and put them in a microwave safe bowl. Fill the microwave safe bowl with enough water to cover all the bottle parts. Place the bottle and the bowl with the bottle parts in the microwave and turn it on for 90 seconds. Do not remove the bottle from the microwave until it cools to avoid burns. Sterilize the bottle using the stovetop. Get a pan with a lid, large enough to fit the bottle and all its parts. Fill the pan with water and place the bottle and all bottle parts in the water. Then, cover the pan with the lid. Boil them for 10 minutes. You do not have to remove the sterilized equipment from the hot water until you plan to use it. So, this way, the bottle will remain sterilized. Put the washed bottle in the freezer overnight. The cold temperatures will freeze the bacteria and remove the smell. For the best results, don't put the bottle in another container or bag, but instead simply place it in the freezer. Add a few drops of mustard to the bottle. Then, add water and wash the bottle. Rinse the bottle well with lukewarm water. Remove the milk odor with toothpaste. Use a new toothbrush to do this or use a brush for washing bottles. Add a bit of toothpaste to the baby bottle and give the inside of the bottle a good rub with the brush. Rinse the bottle well with lukewarm water. Fill the bottle with one part vodka and four parts warm water. The alcohol from vodka will remove bad odors. Close the lid and allow the alcohol to sit in the bottle for 2-3 hours. Rinse the bottle really well to ensure no vodka remains in the bottle, as drinking alcohol can be detrimental to the health of your baby. Try cleaning the bottle with charcoal. This method requires a few days. Take active charcoal briquettes and crumble them into a small powder. Pour the charcoal into the bottle and fill the bottle with warm water. Close the lid and shake well. Leave the bottle to sit with the charcoal mixture for 3-4 days. Rinse the bottle with the warm water and detergent. Rinse your baby’s bottle after every feeding using warm water and mild detergent. Take a bottle brush and give the bottle a good rub on the inside and outside. Make sure you rinse the detergent residue from the bottle with warm running water until the water runs clear and there is no more detergent residue. Always choose a detergent with a mild odor so that in the process of rinsing and cleaning, the bottle does not absorb the detergent's odor. Keep your baby’s bottles in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth. Bottles that sit out at room temperature can develop bacteria, especially if they are still damp after washing or if they are left unwashed. In the lower, colder temperatures of the refrigerator, bacteria in the bottle will grow much slower and much weaker. In fact, bacteria may be responsible for the bad smell in your baby's bottle. Prepare the bottle just before your baby’s feeding time. This will prevent the milk from spoiling in the bottle. If your baby has not fed from the bottle yet, you can leave the bottle out at room temperature for up to two hours. Prepared formula can be left in the fridge for up to 24 hours. But ideally, you should prepare a fresh bottle for your little one every time they feed to prevent the development of harmful bacteria in the bottle. Throw away any leftover formula in the bottle once your baby has finished feeding. However, you can keep any leftover breast milk in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Serve it to your baby for their next meal, but only once. If any breast milk remains when you feed your baby the second time, discard these leftovers. Use glass bottles instead of plastic. Glass bottles will absorb fewer smells than plastic alternatives—if you are consistently finding a milk odor in your baby bottles, consider switching to glass bottles. | Wash the bottle with warm water and detergent. Add a tablespoon of baking soda into the bottle. Close the bottle with a lid and shake the contents of the bottle. Rinse the bottle and smell it. If the odor remains, soak the bottle in the water with baking soda. Place the bottle and all its parts into the container. Leave the bottle submerged overnight and then rinse it out in the morning. Make a solution of one part white vinegar and three parts warm water. Ensure all parts of the bottle are soaked and submerged in the solution. Let the bottle and its parts soak in the vinegar solution overnight. Check that the bottle can go in the microwave. Wash the bottle well with warm water and detergent. Fill the bottle halfway with water. Fill the microwave safe bowl with enough water to cover all the bottle parts. Sterilize the bottle using the stovetop. Fill the pan with water and place the bottle and all bottle parts in the water. Put the washed bottle in the freezer overnight. Add a few drops of mustard to the bottle. Remove the milk odor with toothpaste. Fill the bottle with one part vodka and four parts warm water. Try cleaning the bottle with charcoal. Rinse your baby’s bottle after every feeding using warm water and mild detergent. Keep your baby’s bottles in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth. Prepare the bottle just before your baby’s feeding time. Throw away any leftover formula in the bottle once your baby has finished feeding. Use glass bottles instead of plastic. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Fall-Safely | How to Fall Safely | The most important thing to do if you fall is to protect your head by tucking your chin in and covering your head with your arms. Prevent serious injuries by falling on your side and keeping your limbs bent instead of straight. Avoid tensing up in order to minimize damage. | Protect your head. The most important body part that you need to protect in a fall is your head. Head injuries can be very serious, even deadly. Make sure you prioritize protecting your head as you fall by properly positioning it. Tuck your your chin down, lowering your head. If falling down, face first, turn your head to the side. Bring your arms up to head level for additional protection. Put them in front of your head if falling forwards or behind your head if falling backwards. If you are taking anticoagulants or blood thinners and fall and hit your head, this may result in a dangerous and life-threatening bleed inside your skull. Call your doctor, who may tell you to go to the hospital for a CT scan. Turn as you fall. If you are falling either straight forward or straight backwards, try to turn your body so you land on your side. Falling directly on your back can cause serious injury to it. A frontal fall can cause damage to the head, face, and arms. By landing on your side you can reduce the chance of injury from high distances (for example, one way vertical paths). Keep arms and legs bent. It may be tempting to try and catch yourself fully as you fall with your arms. However, landing with your arms straight out and absorbing the full force of the fall with them can cause injury. Try keeping both arms and legs slightly bent as you fall. Landing fully on your arms in an attempt to catch yourself can break both your wrists and arms. Stay loose. Tensing up during a fall can increase the chances of sustaining an injury. The tension in your body won't allow for the absorption of force from the fall. Instead of spreading the impact out over a flexible body, the parts that were kept taught are more likely to break instead of going with the motion. You can try breathing out as you fall to help keep your body relaxed. Roll out of the impact. If you are able, a good technique to dissipate the force of a fall is to roll into it. By rolling, you send the energy of the fall into the roll, rather than having your body absorb the impact. Since the technique is difficult, you may want to practice falling and rolling at a gym or somewhere with padded and cushioned floors. Start in a low squat position. Lean forward and place your palms flat on the ground in front of you. Push off the ground with your legs and move your weight forwards. Your legs will go over your head. Keep your back rounded and gently try to land on a shoulder. Let the momentum carry you through the roll and back up onto your feet. Spread out the force of the fall. A big part of falling safely is to spread out the force of the impact over a large area of your body. Falling on a single point will result in that area taking most of the damage. By spreading out the impact, you reduce the chance of serious injury to a single part of the body. Wear proper footwear. If you work or walk in an environment where slipping hazards are present, you will want to wear slip-resistant shoes. These shoes are specially designed to grip surfaces and prevent falls, even if those surfaces are slick or wet. Most footwear of this type will be labeled as “slip-resistant.” Pay attention when you walk. As you walk, pay careful attention to the speed at which you are walking and where you're stepping. The faster you walk or run, the more likely you are to fall, especially if the ground is suddenly or surprisingly uneven. By slowing down and being aware of the environment, you can lower the chances of falling. Be careful walking or running in any areas where the ground may be uneven. Pay attention when taking the stairs and always use the hand rail. Use proper safety equipment. If you are performing any task that requires the use of a ladder or similar device, always practice proper safety. Read over any operation manual or safety instructions to make sure you are using the device properly. Always check to make sure any ladder or step stool is secure and is in good working order. Never ride on a vehicle unsafely. Always enter or mount a vehicle slowly and carefully. Create a safe environment. Whether at work or at home, take a few steps to create a safe environment that removes the most common tripping hazards. Making frequently used rooms and spaces safe from trip hazards can greatly reduce your chances of falling. Review the following list for some helpful tips: Always close drawers after you are done with them. Don't leave cords or wires in walkways. Keep the area well lit. Walk slowly over slippery or dangerous areas, taking small controlled steps. Consider relocating if you live somewhere with steep stairs and falling is a concern. Otherwise, make sure you have handrails or a banister. Use non-slip bath mats in the tub and bathroom and consider installing a grab bar in the tub. Remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to make sure they don't flip up or slip. Improve your strength and balance with exercise. Weak legs and muscles can increase your chance of falling. Gentle exercises like Tai Chi can improve strength and balance, making falls less likely. Be aware of medications that might affect your balance. Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which could increase your chances of a fall. Talk to your doctor about your medications (sometimes the interaction of several medications might lead to these side effects). She may be able to prescribe you something else. | Protect your head. Turn as you fall. Keep arms and legs bent. Stay loose. Roll out of the impact. Spread out the force of the fall. Wear proper footwear. Pay attention when you walk. Use proper safety equipment. Create a safe environment. Improve your strength and balance with exercise. Be aware of medications that might affect your balance. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-or-Survive-a-Monkey-Attack | How to Prevent or Survive a Monkey Attack | While monkeys are cute, they are wild animals and should never be fed or approached without the help of an expert. However, if you find yourself face-to-face with a monkey, there are a few things you can do to prevent an attack. When you encounter a monkey, stay still and stand your ground, since running will activate the monkey's aggressive instincts. Avoid any aggressive body language and don't smile, since most monkeys consider bearing teeth a sign of aggression. Some monkeys become aggressive because they think you have food, so try holding out your empty palms to show them you don't have any. If the monkey doesn't back off, slowly walk away. Try to stay calm, even if the monkey jumps on you. Usually, the monkey is just asserting itself and won't actually attack unless provoked. | Dress appropriately. It's best to wear plain and simple clothing when going into an environment with monkeys. Do not wear jewelry. Remove all piercings. Leave anything shiny at home, for example, sequin-covered shirts. Long hair should be tied up or put back. Consider wearing contact lenses instead of glasses. Leave your purse, fannypack or backpack at home. Monkeys in popular vacation areas have been known to raid them for food and treats. Keep your distance. Set aside your fantasies about getting close to a cute and loveable monkey. Sure, it's possible to cultivate a relationship with monkeys over a long period of time. And some monkeys are tamer than others. But you must always remember that, no matter what, monkeys are wild animals. Keeping your distance is important step in preventing a monkey attack. Remember: Some species of monkeys have up to four times the strength of a human being. Monkeys are unpredictable. Monkey bites are dangerous due to the high levels of bacteria in their mouths. Monkeys are common carriers of rabies. Do not feed the monkeys. It's almost always a bad idea to have food in the vicinity of a monkey, as food is one of the most common reasons a monkey will attack. This applies to food you've kept hidden in a container, too. Monkeys have an amazing sense of smell and can even detect food that's still in its packaging. Plus, giving food to one monkey will likely attract others, which may interpret your refusal to feed them as a sign of aggression and be a reason for them to attack. It may seem like innocent fun and other people may be doing it, but please: do not feed the monkeys. Consider your body language. Avoid smiling at monkeys or making any sort of gesture that shows or bares your teeth. To a monkey, a big toothy grin is a sign of threat and aggression. Don't yell at, sing to, tease or heckle the monkey. Avoid any postures that would seem aggressive to a fellow human being and keep your motions minimal. Being aggressive will only get you attacked. Be careful when taking pictures. You've found the coolest location, the light is right, and there are tons of cute monkeys just waiting to be photographed. But be careful. Monkeys have been known to attack selfie-takers because they sometimes interpret their own reflection in the camera lens as a strange and potentially dangerous monkey. Focusing on your camera and not on the situation around you can be dangerous because it means you're not considering important signs that may affect whether a monkey is about to attack. Be aware of hostile signs. Always pay close attention to a monkey's body language. There are some behaviors you should become familiar with. For example, a monkey is telling you it feels threatened and might behave in an aggressive manner if it blinks, makes an exaggerated yawn or gives you a big smile. When a monkey bares its teeth it is almost always a sign of aggression. Stand your ground. If a monkey is acting especially aggressive, don't run away or show your fear. The pecking order in monkey clans is well-established and running away will tell the monkey that you are subordinate to them and will increase their aggressive instincts. Instead, back away slowly while still facing the monkey and avoiding direct eye contact. Show them your empty palms. Most acts of monkey aggression are a result of a monkey thinking you have food. If you do have food, throw it in their direction. If you don't, simply hold out your empty palms to show the monkey you have none. Don’t panic. Many people who study monkeys have been attacked by them – but have never been bitten. The secret is to avoid panicking if an aggressive monkey comes at you and jumps on you. The monkey is most likely only asserting itself and is not looking for actual combat. Contain your fear as best as possible. Don't scream. Don't try to fight the monkey or push it off. Walk calmly away. The monkey will eventually let go and leave you alone. Don't play tug of war. Never refuse to drop something that a monkey has grabbed hold of. Monkeys are very curious creatures but they also have shorter attentions spans than we do, so the chances are they'll drop whatever it is they've grabbed within a short amount of time. Anything with straps, like your camera or backpack are tempting for monkeys and many people have been attacked because they refuse to let the monkey examine it. Treat any bites or wounds immediately. A monkey bite, no matter how small it may seem, is no laughing matter. Monkeys are known carriers of rabies but even a bite from a healthy monkey can cause a life-threatening infection due to the bacteria in their mouths. Retreat to a safe place. Scrub your wound with clean water and soap to make sure as many germs as possible have been removed. Visit a doctor as soon as you can. They will likely suggest a course of antibiotics and may even suggest antibiotics against rabies, which has no initial symptoms and is fatal if not treated immediately. | Dress appropriately. Keep your distance. Do not feed the monkeys. Consider your body language. Be careful when taking pictures. Be aware of hostile signs. Stand your ground. Show them your empty palms. Don’t panic. Don't play tug of war. Treat any bites or wounds immediately. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Lose-Belly-Fat-Fast-(For-Women) | How to Lose Belly Fat Fast (For Women) | To lose belly fat as a woman, start by cutting out processed sugars and grains and replacing them with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. In addition to eating healthier, try to get in an hour of cardio exercise every day to help you burn fat. You can also perform some bodyweight exercises, like planks, push-ups, and squats, every other day. These types of exercises burn fat faster since they engage the core muscle group. Build up to 30 minutes of bodyweight exercises, 3 times per week. | Follow the adage “abs are made in the kitchen. ” Most personal trainers suggest that losing belly fat is 90 percent diet and 10 percent exercise. If you do not eat a well-balanced diet, this step is extremely important. Cut out processed sugars and grains. Reducing sugar and empty calories from white processed carbohydrates will allow you to burn fat faster. This includes liquid calories like sodas, coffee drinks and alcohol. Most nutritionists consider it impossible to lose belly fat quickly and healthfully without removing processed foods. Plan your meals based on servings of fruits and vegetables. A woman between the age of 19 and 50 needs at least 2.5 cups of vegetables per day. Choose your vegetables for their color. Try to make a colorful plate, and you will get more nutrients. Women between the ages of 19 and 50 need between 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit per day. *Eating your favourite fruits will help boost your appetite for healthy foods. Add in whole grains. Choose grains like quinoa, brown rice and barley over whole grain bread. The less processed the grain is, the better it will be for your body. Choose whole grains that have a low glycemic index. This means they don't spike your blood sugar, and they will make you fuller for longer. Go to glycemicindex.com to view how your favorite foods fit onto the glycemic index. Plan your protein. Eat quality protein, like salmon, tuna, turkey, chicken and legumes every day (women who are pregnant, nursing, or considering getting pregnant should be careful about the amount of mercury in their diet and avoid eating excessive quantities of some fish). Add in low-fat dairy in the form of yogurt. Yogurt helps lower cortisol levels with calcium. Greek yogurt has more protein than regular yogurt, and 1 serving per day, as part of a balanced diet, can help you burn off belly fat faster. Drink 2 to 5 cups of green tea daily. Studies have shown that people who ingested 600mg of catechins, an antioxidant found in green tea, lost 16 times more visceral fat than those who did not drink it. Look for green tea that has high levels of anti-oxidants. You must drink it hot to receive these benefits. Do 1 hour of cardio exercise daily for fast fat loss. Although 30 minutes of moderate cardio exercise daily can stop the production of additional visceral fat, a full hour is required to burn it. You cannot “spot reduce,” or simply burn stomach fat without burning other body fat. However, 90 percent of people notice a reduction in belly fat first. Opt for interval training. Short (1-5 minute) bursts of high-intensity cardio during a 1-hour session will boost your metabolism and reduce fat faster. Try a boot camp, circuit training or fat burning class, to learn how to incorporate high intensity exercises into your routine. You can also look for interval settings on most cardiovascular machines. Do bodyweight exercises before you do traditional crunches. Do planks, side planks, push-ups, squats and lunges every other day. Try to incorporate 30 minutes of bodyweight exercises every other day. These static and dynamic exercises burn more fat than crunches because they engage your core muscles, such as the abdominals longer and more intensely. Add in strength training with machines or free weights when your body is used to the increased exercise. Do 30 minutes of weightlifting, with abdominals flexed, 3 times per week. Stretch your abs before you exercise them. Try to do your cardio before you do abdominal exercises and stretch, so that more of the work will focus on your core, rather than tight hips, legs or the neck. Take a Pilates class to learn how to target the deep abdominal muscles. Do 15 to 30 minutes of abdominal exercises every other day. Make sure to include exercises that work the obliques (side-abs) and transverse abdominis (lower abs). Good exercises include side plank dips, reverse crunches, the bicycle and roll downs. Consult your doctor before doing any exercise if you had a C-section. Identify causes of stress in your life. Stress has been linked to increases of visceral fat in both men and women. Stress causes your body to produce more stress hormones like cortisol. Cortisol sends signals to your body to store fat. The stress is a signal to your body that food may be scarce in the future. Many studies suggest women show more physical symptoms of stress than men, including weight gain in the belly. Reduce stressful situations at home and at work immediately. Regulating stress in your life will help you lose belly fat faster than diet and exercise alone. Start deep breathing exercises. Do 10-second breaths. Sit in a comfortable position. Inhale for 10 seconds, and then exhale for 10 seconds. Breathe in this manner for 2 to 5 minutes. People who are stressed usually breathe rapidly in and out and take shallow breaths, without even realizing it. Do 10-second breathing every time you are stressed or at 5 different interval throughout the day. Take Vitamin C supplements. If you are not able to get enough Vitamin C through food, taking a Vitamin C supplement can help manage the cortisol in your blood and regulate the effects of stress on your body. Try to eat more cantaloupe, oranges, red and green peppers, kiwi, broccoli or tomatoes. A serving of each has between 40 and 100mg of Vitamin C. Eat 500mg of Vitamin C daily. Try to get the majority of your Vitamin C from food sources. Take a 200mg supplement of Vitamin C if you are not reaching your 500mg goal. You may take a 500mg supplement for a week, if you feel you are getting very little Vitamin C in your diet. Devote 7 to 8 hours to sleep. Sleeping well manages stress and hormone levels. People who sleep less than 7 hours per day can also raise cortisol and ghrelin levels, causing you to gain belly weight. Ghrelin is a hormone that brings cravings for sweet and fatty foods. Try yoga or meditation. If deep breathing is helping, then yoga and meditation may be the best way to regulate cortisol, ghrelin and other hormones that produce weight gain. To lose belly fat fast, you should try doing several different types of yoga for exercise and stress reduction. Flow yoga burns fat while reducing stress. If you choose to try meditation, it can also help you sleep. It should be added to your schedule in addition to increased exercise. | Follow the adage “abs are made in the kitchen. Cut out processed sugars and grains. Plan your meals based on servings of fruits and vegetables. Add in whole grains. Plan your protein. Drink 2 to 5 cups of green tea daily. Do 1 hour of cardio exercise daily for fast fat loss. Opt for interval training. Do bodyweight exercises before you do traditional crunches. Stretch your abs before you exercise them. Identify causes of stress in your life. Reduce stressful situations at home and at work immediately. Start deep breathing exercises. Take Vitamin C supplements. Devote 7 to 8 hours to sleep. Try yoga or meditation. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Juggle-a-Soccer-Ball | How to Juggle a Soccer Ball | To juggle a soccer ball, start by holding the ball straight out in front of you at chest height. Next, drop the ball and let it bounce. After it bounces once, wait for the ball to descend again, then kick it back up in the air. Use your dominant foot to kick, and kick hard enough so that the ball moves back toward chest level. Also, kick the ball with your foot angled upward so you are making contact with your laces. As you kick, keep your ankle locked so your foot doesn't wobble, which will lead to a wobbly ball. | Hold the ball straight out in front of you so that it is at the height of your chest. Drop it and let it bounce. As the ball begins to descend after this bounce, kick it back up into the air. Try to kick it with your dominant foot hard enough that it reaches chest height. Try to kick the ball with your foot angled slightly upward. Make sure to kick the ball with your laces. Make sure that your laces are not double knotted at first. The ball may bounce off of your laces at a weird angle if your laces are tied in a large knot. If you deflate the soccer ball a little bit, you will reduce the intensity of its bounce. The ball will be easier to control and won't go flying every time you miss a kick. Once you've mastered the technique of juggling, you should fully inflate your ball. Keep your ankle 'locked' so that it stays angled and strong. A wobbly ankle leads to a wobbly kick. Keep your knees slightly bent. Doing this will help you have better control over the ball. Do not lock your knees. Keep the foot you are not kicking with (your controlling foot) flat and firmly planted on the ground. It is important to be balanced while juggling the ball. In between touches, it is risky but useful to try to re-balance yourself such that you can maintain control of how you hit the ball each time. Always try to stay balanced on your toes, ready to make quick movements. The biggest key to balancing is to keep your knees bent and your eyes on the ball. Practice until you can easily and consistently catch the ball in front of your stomach. You should not have to lean or reach to catch the ball. Then do the same with your other foot. Keep in mind that juggling with your non-dominant foot will be harder. Keep at it! Increase the number of times you let the ball bounce off your feet. Instead of catching the ball every time you kick it, kick it up into the air and as it falls, kick it up again rather than letting it bounce on the ground. Try to keep the ball under control. Focus on juggling with one foot until you feel confident, then switch to the other foot. Practice until you feel confident juggling with both feet. You can "catch" the ball on your foot with careful practice by cushioning the fall of the ball and holding it in place with your foot and shin. Drop the ball and let it bounce. Kick it up with your right foot. Try to keep the kick controlled and aim to kick the ball straight up in the air. Try to kick it no higher than your waist. Let the ball drop and then kick it up with your left foot. Again, try to keep your kick light and controlled so that the ball only goes up to your waist. Smaller kicks are easier to control and better for learning how to alternate feet. Be prepared for the fact that you will probably move around a lot while you learn how to alternate feet. Catch the ball once you have kicked it once with both feet. Readjust if you have moved around and then drop the ball again. When you have kicked the ball with both feet twice, catch the ball. Then try kicking it three times with both feet, then four times, etc. You'll have mastered this step when you can stand in one place and keep juggling the ball between your feet indefinitely. Place the ball at your feet. Take your dominant kicking foot, and place it on top of the ball. Roll your foot down the ball just strong enough to create backspin on the ball. Place your toe underneath the ball, and allow the ball to roll up your foot. Immediately kick the ball straight up, as if you were going to catch it with your hands. Position yourself so you can kick the ball up with your other foot. Do this as the ball comes back down. Alternate feet and continue to juggle as you learned how to do in the previous section. Every time the ball drops, do not pick it up--use your foot to roll the ball up on your laces and start juggling again. Keep the foot you are kicking with near the ground. Moving your leg up too high while you kick the ball will make you lose control of the ball. The power behind the ball comes from your foot, not from your leg. Lift one knee so that it is perpendicular to your body. Doing this will keep your thigh flat. A flat surface is much easier to juggle off of then an angular surface. Try to juggle with your thighs only after you have mastered juggling with your feet. Juggling with your thighs is a way to add versatility to your juggling skills. It will also allow you to keep the ball more in control. Hold the ball above your thigh. Let the ball drop onto the middle part of your thigh. If you bounce the ball off of your knee, it is almost guaranteed to go flying out of reach. Juggle with your thighs the way you would juggle with your feet. Begin by bouncing the ball off your thigh and catching it. Repeat this process until you are able to control the direction of the ball and how high it goes with your thigh. Switch to the other thigh and repeat the process. Alternate between thighs. Do this when you feel confident that you can control the ball with both thighs. Alternate between your thighs and feet. Try kicking the ball with both feet and then both thighs. When you can do this without dropping the ball, try to bounce the ball off of each foot and thigh twice, then three times, and so on. Juggle the ball with your head. Throw or kick the ball above your head and then bounce it off of your forehead. Angle your face up so that the ball will hit on the top of your forehead. Keep your neck relaxed and bend your knees. Bending your knees will help you to stay balanced while you focus on the ball above you. You can use the top of your head to juggle but you will have much less control of the ball. It can also hurt to juggle with the top of your head--try to avoid doing this. Use your shoulders. While shoulders are hard to juggle with because they are not flat, you can use them to direct the ball where you want it to go. When you kick the ball up to your shoulder, move your shoulder upward and in the direction you would like the ball to go. For instance, you can kick the ball up with your right foot and then hit the ball with your right shoulder so that it arcs over your body and falls so that you can kick the ball up with your left foot. Make sure to only use your shoulders and not your upper arm. Hitting the ball with any part of your arm besides your shoulders is considered a 'handball'. Practice using your head, shoulders, and chest. Use the pattern of foot-chest-thigh-shoulder-head and repeat to get comfortable with using your shoulders and head. Practice these techniques with a friend to create a variety of game-like scenarios. When you feel comfortable with this pattern, switch it up and practice another pattern such as head-chest-foot-shoulder-thigh. | Hold the ball straight out in front of you so that it is at the height of your chest. Keep your knees slightly bent. Practice until you can easily and consistently catch the ball in front of your stomach. Increase the number of times you let the ball bounce off your feet. Drop the ball and let it bounce. Let the ball drop and then kick it up with your left foot. Catch the ball once you have kicked it once with both feet. Place the ball at your feet. Position yourself so you can kick the ball up with your other foot. Keep the foot you are kicking with near the ground. Lift one knee so that it is perpendicular to your body. Hold the ball above your thigh. Juggle with your thighs the way you would juggle with your feet. Alternate between thighs. Alternate between your thighs and feet. Juggle the ball with your head. Use your shoulders. Practice using your head, shoulders, and chest. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-the-Confidence-to-Speak-in-Front-of-a-Class | How to Get the Confidence to Speak in Front of a Class | To get the confidence to speak in front of a class, start researching your topic as soon as you get it since you'll feel more confident if you're well prepared. Next, rehearse your speech 2-3 times a day until you have your points memorized. On the big day, try to stay calm by closing your eyes, breathing deeply into your belly for a count of 3, and exhaling fully. Do this breathing exercise a few times right before you make your speech, if possible, to relax your body and clear your mind. | Figure out why you are nervous. Are you afraid to get a bad grade? Do you think you may embarrass yourself in front of your crush? Once you identify these thoughts, try to find reasons why they are not true. For example, when you think, "I am going to make a fool out of myself in front of my friends," try thinking something more positive such as, "I am going to be so prepared that I will sound smart enough to impress all of my friends." Remember, fear of public speaking is very common. You are not alone in your fear, and there will be plenty of resources to help you figure things out. Talk to someone whose speaking skills you admire. Talk to a respectful friend or an adult who has public speaking skills that you want to emulate. Ask them how they handle big presentations and what they would do in your situation. Talk about how they prepare and how they stay on track while they speak. If the person is someone you can easily talk to or trust, ask them to be your practice audience. If your campus has a speech and debate club or organization, you can ask to come observe one of their meetings, and talk to a couple members about how they cope. Practice in your daily life. You can practicing public speaking every day, even when you don't have an assignment. Challenge yourself to do one thing that makes you uncomfortable each day, like raising your hand in class, talking to a classmate you don't know well, or ordering food over the phone instead of online. Then, use these challenges as a chance to practice your public speaking skills. If you know that you tend to talk fast, for example, use your daily challenge as an opportunity to practice speaking slower and enunciating. If you know you are quiet when you speak, practice speaking louder. Visualize your success. When you're nervous about speaking, it can cause you to focus on what you think will go wrong. Any time you notice that happening, try as hard as you can to fight back by thinking about a successful outcome. Think about the best ending possible to your speech, whether it's an A on your assignment or a standing ovation. This may feel silly at first, but the more you visualize your own success, the easier it will become to get rid of negative thoughts. Start planning your speech well in advance. It is easy to feel nervous when you only began thinking about your subject the night before it's due. Begin preparing yourself as soon as you find out you will be speaking in front of your class. Start to think about what points you want to include in your speech, and how you want to structure your time. You don't need to have your speech memorized weeks before the due date. Simply start thinking about your timeline. Set aside a little time every day to work on your presentation. Depending upon the type of speech, you may not need to memorize it at all, or you may be allowed to use note cards to help you keep your place. Try to have a subject and a general outline of what points you want to cover developed a day or two after you get the assignment. Then, take 20 or 30 minutes each day to do a little research and write out part of your speech. Make notes regarding your primary points. It may seem counter-intuitive, but you don't want to read off a script when you speak. Instead, make notes that outline your main points, and provide one or two pieces of data for each point. If you can, print this on an outline that will fit on a single sheet of paper. That way, you don't have to worry about out-of-order pages or notecards. If you are talking about historical events, for example, have an outline where the headings give the name and date of each event. Then, have one point under that with the major players, and one point briefly summarizing what happened. Don't read directly from the outline. Just use it as a guideline to help you remember key points and keep your structure. It's there to help you if you get lost, but it shouldn't be a script. Rehearse your speech until you have your points memorized. Once you have your points researched and a script or outline prepared, start rehearsing your speech. Begin by rehearsing to your reflection while you memorize your information. Once you have your points memorized enough that you don't need a script, ask some friends or a teacher if you can practice delivering your points to them. Practice at least 2-3 times each day. The better you know what you want to say, the more comfortable you will feel the day you have to say it. When you practice for others, use their feedback as a learning opportunity. Remember that they are not trying to make you feel bad. They are just helping you find places where you can improve your facts or presentation. Look at the room in advance. Whether you are speaking in your classroom or in your school's theater, try to look at the room at least once before you make your points. Think about where you will be relative to your audience. Find out if you will have access to tools like a podium, and start planning where you want them. This is especially important if you are speaking in a room other than your classroom. Unfamiliar environments can make nerves worse. You can lessen this by becoming familiar with the environment before you have to speak there. Even if you don't think looking at the room will help, do it anyway. It is easier to relax in a place that is at least a little familiar. Stay calm on the big day. Try not to let your nerves overcome you before you speak. Whenever you start to feel nervous, start thinking about your talking points instead of thinking about what could go wrong. Then, refocus your mind back on your material. Accept that you will make some mistakes. Embracing the fact that everyone makes small, recoverable mistakes when they speak will help you feel less nervous and keep you from making larger, more critical mistakes. Most minor mistakes won't even be noticed. If you make a minor mistake like mispronouncing a word or skipping a small part, don't stop your presentation or start backtracking. This can interrupt your flow and make you even more nervous. Correct the mistake if you notice it right away. Otherwise, just move on. Try deep breathing exercises. Close your eyes, inhale deeply by breathing into your abdomen, count slowly to three, and exhale fully. Repeat the process until you feel calmer and you can focus on your points instead of your nerves. This is an especially helpful tool to use right before you have to speak. Be an actor while you speak. Actors say and do things onstage that they would never imagine saying or doing in everyday life. That's because actors are playing a character. Think about yourself as a character who is a lot like you, but is really comfortable with public speaking. Play that character when you have to talk in front of your class. This helps some people because when they are playing a character, it is easier to take risks knowing that if you mess up, it's the character that will get the blame, not you. Being an actor is a "fake it until you make it" approach. Play someone who is collected and confident. Given enough time, your confidence will stop being fake. Do your best and have fun. You've worked hard to make sure that this speech goes well, so show it. Your classmates will appreciate watching someone who has a bit of fun with the material. The more enthusiastic you are, the less likely they are to notice minor errors and missteps. Reflect on your speech but don't dwell on mistakes. Congratulate yourself for having the courage to get up in front of your peers. You will always be harder on yourself than anyone else. Ask yourself what you could do better next time. You can even make a list. Try writing down two positives of your presentation for every negative. This way you can focus on areas where you need to improve without feeling like the whole speech failed. | Figure out why you are nervous. Talk to someone whose speaking skills you admire. Practice in your daily life. Visualize your success. Start planning your speech well in advance. Make notes regarding your primary points. Rehearse your speech until you have your points memorized. Look at the room in advance. Stay calm on the big day. Try deep breathing exercises. Be an actor while you speak. Do your best and have fun. Reflect on your speech but don't dwell on mistakes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Homesickness | How to Deal With Homesickness | If you're feeling homesick, try incorporating at item from home into your daily life, like putting a special quilt on your bed or streaming a familiar radio station. Keep in mind that the changes you're experiencing are ok, and a little homesickness just reminds you how much you like being home. While adjusting to your new space, keep in touch with your friends and family from back home, which can help you feel supported and connected. However, you'll also want to make sure to leave time to make new friends and take part in activities around you. Participating in traditions and rituals can also help you feel more connected to your old and new home, so eat your favorite foods, take part in religious traditions, or join a club or team that's important to you. | Understand what causes homesickness. Homesickness comes from the human need for connection, love, and security. Despite its name, your feelings of “homesickness” might not have anything to do with your actual home. Anything that is familiar, stable, comfortable, and positive can be a source of homesickness when you're away from it. Research has even shown that homesickness is a kind of grief for a loss similar to mourning a breakup or death. You may even have pre-emptive homesickness, where you develop feelings of anxiety, loss, or obsession about home before you leave because you are anticipating the separation. Children and pre-teens typically feel homesickness more than older adults, although people of any age can experience this. Recognize homesickness symptoms. Homesickness is much more than just missing “home.” It can cause a variety of feelings and side-effects that can impact your daily functioning. Learning to recognize these symptoms can help you figure out why you're feeling the way you are and take action to help. Nostalgia. Nostalgia is when you frequently think about your home or familiar things and people, usually through an idealized lens. You might feel preoccupied with thoughts about home, or find yourself constantly comparing your new situation unfavorably to your old one. Depression. People who suffer from homesickness often experience depression because they lack the social supports they had at home. You might also feel like you have less control over your life, which can worsen depression. Common signs of homesickness-caused depression include feelings of sadness, feeling disoriented or like you “don't belong,” withdrawing from social activities, academic or work difficulties, feeling helpless or abandoned, experiencing low self-esteem, and changes in your sleeping patterns. Not wanting to do or not enjoying things you used to do is often a sign of depression. Anxiety. Anxiety is also a hallmark of homesickness. Anxiety due to homesickness may cause obsessive thoughts, especially about the home or people you miss. You might also have difficulty concentrating or feel extremely stressed without being able to pinpoint a cause. You might get easily irritated or “snap” at people in your new situation. In extreme cases, anxiety can trigger other responses, such as agoraphobia (fear of open spaces) or claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces). Abnormal behaviors. Feeling homesick can throw you off your normal routines and change the way you respond to things. For example, if you're not usually an angry person but you find yourself getting upset or yelling more than you used to, this could be a sign that you're feeling homesick. You might also eat significantly more or less than you usually do. Other symptoms include frequent headaches or experiencing more pain or illness than usual. Homesickness is common for young people. While a person can get homesick at any age, younger people more typically encounter this. There are a couple of reasons: Children and teens typically are not as emotionally independent. A seven-year-old is generally not nearly as ready to venture from home as a seventeen-year-old. Young people usually have not had as much experience with new situations. If you have never moved before, or been away at camp before, or been on your own before, it is more difficult than the second or third time. When you are young, it is more likely to be a new experience than an older adult. Keep familiar things around. Having familiar things from “home” can help ease your feelings of homesickness by giving you an “anchor.” Things with high sentimental or cultural value, such as photos of family or an item tied to your cultural identity, can help you feel connected to home even when you are away. Balance old with new. In order to adjust to your new situation, it's important to embrace the changes that you're experiencing. Certainly, have some comforting items from home, but realize you cannot and should not be surrounded by old, familiar things. Remember that not everything has to be a physical object. In the age of the Internet, you may be able to stream your local radio station, for instance. Do some things you loved to do at home. Research shows that doing things you feel nostalgic about can help you feel better. Tradition and rituals can help foster a sense of connectedness to your home even when you're far away. Eat your favorite foods from home. There's a reason we have the term “comfort food.” Eating familiar foods from your childhood or culture can make you feel happier and more secure in your new environment. Try introducing your favorite foods to new friends to strengthen the connection between familiar sources of comfort and new sources of emotional support. Participate in your religious traditions, if you have them. Research has shown that people who have religious or faith traditions feel less homesick when they participate in those traditions in a new place. Finding a place of worship or meditation in your new place, or even finding a group of friends with similar traditions, can help you adjust. Find some similar activities to do. If you were in a bowling league or book club at home, don't be shy. Do your research and see if you can find something similar in your new environment. You'll be able to do the things you love and meet some new people in the process. Talk about your feelings with someone. It's a common myth that talking about feeling homesick can cause or worsen symptoms of homesickness. Research has shown that this isn't true. In fact, talking about what you're feeling and experiencing can help you deal with your homesickness. Not acknowledging your feelings can make them worse. Find a trusted person to talk with. A college RA, a guidance counselor, a parent or close friend, or mental health professional can give you a sympathetic ear and, often, advice about how to cope with your feelings. Remember that seeking help from someone else doesn't make you “weak” or “crazy.” Having the strength to admit you need help is a sign of courage and good self-care, not something to be embarrassed about. Keep a journal. Keeping a journal will help you get in touch with your thoughts and process everything that is happening in your new environment. Whether you're studying abroad, in college, at summer camp, or just moved to a new city, you will likely be experiencing many new and unfamiliar sensations, and keeping a journal can help you keep track of your thoughts. Research has shown that keeping a journal where you reflect on your experiences and how they made you feel can help relieve feelings of homesickness. Try to keep your focus positive. While it's normal to feel lonely and homesick, it's important to look at the good side of your new experiences. Think about the fun things you're doing, or think about how something new reminds you of something wonderful from home. If you only journal about how miserable you're feeling, you may make your homesickness worse. Make sure your journal is more than a list of negative feelings and events. When you do list a negative experience, take some time to think and write about why it made you feel that way. This is called "narrative reflection," and it serves a therapeutic purpose. Get plenty of exercise. Research has shown that exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins can help fight anxiety and depression, which are both common side-effects of homesickness. If you can, exercise with others. This will give you the chance to socialize and meet new people. Exercise can also boost your immune system. Homesickness may manifest as increased feelings of sickness (e.g., frequent headaches or colds). Talk with friends and family back home. Talking with your loved ones back home can help you feel supported and connected, which is important for adjusting to a new place. You need to develop a sense of self-confidence and self-reliance to combat homesickness effectively. Don't let yourself focus so much on your loved ones in another place that you don't learn how to manage on your own. Talking to friends and family can make homesickness worse for very young children or for people who are away from home for a very short time. You can also spend a bit of time on social networking sites to connect with friends and see what they're up to. It may help to not feel they are impossibly far away. However, do not focus so much on your old friends that you don't have time to make new ones, though. Avoid obsessing over your old home. While connecting to people back home can be a great coping strategy, it can also become a crutch. Don't let your attempts to remind yourself of home take over your life. If you find yourself staying in to talk to your mom for the third time that day rather than grab a coffee with a new friend, consider adjusting the amount of time you spend on connecting with new people. There is a fine line between keeping in contact with people from your hometown, and not moving on to where you are now. Schedule your phone calls home. Set limits for how often and for how long you'll talk to friends and family back home. You could even try writing old-fashioned “snail mail” letters. These are great ways to stay connected to people back home without letting your nostalgia for the past keep you from experiencing the present. Make a list of what you miss about home. It's very common to miss your loved ones when you're away from them. Make a list of the people you miss and what they brought to your life. What memories do you cherish? What things did you do together? What aspects of their personalities did you love? Finding new friends who are similar to those you left behind can help you feel emotionally supported. It can also help you adjust to a new place or situation. Look for ways in which your new environment is like what you miss. Research on homesickness has shown that when you can find aspects of the familiar in your new situation, you are less likely to stay homesick because you are focused on something positive. Get involved. It's easy to say that you need to make new friends, but actually doing that can be hard in a new place. The best way to develop a strong social support network is to put yourself into situations where you'll meet new people, especially if you have similar interests. Getting involved with new activities can also help distract you from your feelings of homesickness. For example, if you're away at school or college, there are a variety of clubs, sports, activities, and student government bodies you could join. These can help you connect with other people, many of whom are probably experiencing homesickness too! If you're at a new job or in a new city, it can be hard to make new friends. Research has shown that you may find it harder to make friends after you leave college. Consistency is key: joining a group that meets frequently, such as a book club or workshop, is likely to help you make friends because you'll see the same people on a regular basis. Share what you love about home with others. One of the most important things you can do to fight homesickness is to make new friends. Having a strong support network makes you less likely to have problems coping with homesickness, even if you feel it. Sharing your positive memories about home will help lift your spirits and make you feel more comfortable talking about home. Have a party where you share your cuisine and customs with new friends or acquaintances. Whether you're studying abroad or just going to college a few hours away, sharing your favorite foods from home with others can make you feel better. You can have a party where you teach a few friends to make the foods you love most from home, or just invite some people over to enjoy your favorite local snacks. Share your favorite music with others. If you're from a place that loves country music, have a small get-together where people play board games, get to know each other, and listen to your favorite tunes. If you loved listening to jazz at home, play some jazz. The music doesn't have to directly relate to your home as long as it reminds you of being home. Tell funny stories about being at home. Though you may be feeling too mopey to laugh, try sharing some funny anecdotes about what you loved most about being at home. Talking about fond memories can strengthen your connection to home and to new friends. If you're living in a place with a different native language from yours, try teaching some people a few key phrases in your language. This will be fun, distracting, and educational for your friends. Be brave. Feeling shy, awkward, or vulnerable is a common side-effect of homesickness. If you don't take any risks, you will miss out on experiences that could help you adjust to your new situation. Try accepting invitations, even if you won't know many people at whatever you'll be doing. You don't need to be the life of the party! Just being present and listening to others is a good step. If you're shy, give yourself a manageable goal: meet and talk to just one new person. You'll probably become more comfortable socializing as time goes on. Focus on listening to the other person, which is the easiest way to make a connection. Even if you end up not making friends at that particular party or event, you will have proved to yourself that you can handle doing new, unfamiliar things, and that can boost your self-confidence. Get out of your comfort zone. Doing the same familiar things may feel comfortable, but it's important to push yourself out of your comfort zone to grow and change. Research has shown that a moderate level of anxiety, such as that experienced when you're learning a new skill, can improve your performance in intellectual and interpersonal tasks. Feeling too comfortable can keep you from adjusting to your new environment. Start with small steps. Trying to face your biggest fear all at once could be counter-productive. Trying to throw yourself into something completely foreign could leave you feeling overwhelmed. Give yourself small, manageable goals that challenge you a little bit at a time. Try a new restaurant in your new town. Offer to sit with a stranger at the cafeteria. Ask someone in your class to start a study group with you. Invite a co-worker to get drinks after work. Enjoy the unique aspects of your new environment. Finding ways to meet your needs in a new environment can be challenging, but it's also helpful in fighting homesickness. Connecting with what is new and exciting about your new situation may help you feel more attached to it. For example, if you're studying or living abroad, check out all of the museums, palaces, local restaurants, and cultural traditions that make the country unique. Get out your tour book and make a goal of doing something cultural at least once a week. Immerse yourself in the culture. Even if you've just moved to a different place in your home country, you might find that the local culture is quite different from what you're used to. Learn the local expressions, try out new cuisine, and check out local bars and pubs. Take a cooking class that focuses on local ingredients. Join a local dance club. Increasing your intercultural communication skills can help you feel more at home in a new place. Ask the locals about their favorite things to do. You may get an excellent recommendation for finding the best burrito of your life, or you could get directions to a gorgeous off-the-radar lake. Learn the language. If you've moved to a new country, not being able to speak the language can be a huge barrier to feeling like you belong. Learn the language as quickly as you can; take classes, chat with locals, and practice your new skills. You'll feel more confident and in control, once you're able to communicate with the people in your new environment. Get out of the house. Getting out of the house is half the battle to beat homesickness. Of course, you'll be homesick if you spend eight hours in a day watching reruns of The Office in the near-dark. Instead, make a goal of spending a lot of your time out of the house, whether it's just to read the same book you were going to read at home in a sunny park, or to take a long walk with a good friend instead of doing sit-ups in your room. Work or study out of the house. Go to a coffee shop or park and do the same work you were going to do at home. Just being around people may help you feel less alone. Pick up a new interest. Finding something new to do on your own can help you find your passion. It can give you a positive, productive activity to focus your energy on and can distract you from feeling sad or lonely. Learning a new skill can also help you break out of your comfort zone. Try finding a hobby that's related to your new environment. See whether there are any biking or hiking clubs in your area. Join a local art class. Find a writers' workshop. If you can socialize while developing a new skill, that will help you feel more connected to your new place. Give it time. Don't be disappointed in yourself if you're not in love with your new environment right away. Many people around you may have embraced their new surroundings more quickly, but that doesn't mean that there's something wrong with you; in fact, many people who may look like they're having a great time may, in fact, be feeling incredibly homesick. Have patience and know that with a bit of perseverance, you'll be able to make it work. | Understand what causes homesickness. Recognize homesickness symptoms. Homesickness is common for young people. Keep familiar things around. Do some things you loved to do at home. Talk about your feelings with someone. Keep a journal. Get plenty of exercise. Talk with friends and family back home. Avoid obsessing over your old home. Make a list of what you miss about home. Get involved. Share what you love about home with others. Be brave. Get out of your comfort zone. Enjoy the unique aspects of your new environment. Learn the language. Get out of the house. Pick up a new interest. Give it time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Knit-the-Knit-Stitch | How to Knit the Knit Stitch | To practice the knit stitch, start by casting on as many stitches as you like. Then, take hold of the needle with the stitches in your non-dominant hand and the empty needle in your dominant hand. When you're ready to begin, push the tip of the empty needle into the back of the first loop so the two needles cross over. Next, wrap your working yarn around the needle before gently pulling the needle out of the first loop to pull the new yarn through. Finish by slipping the old stitch off the needle. | Get a pair of knitting needles and yarn. To practice the knit stitch, all you need is a pair of knitting needles and a ball of yarn. You can use any size needles you like to practice, but make sure that the needle size is appropriate for the type of yarn you are using. You can find the recommended needle sizes for different types of yarn by checking the yarn label. Cast on your stitches. Casting on is how you begin every knitting project. Start by looping the yarn around your finger twice and then pull the back loop through the front loop to make a slipknot. Then, slip the slipknot onto the needle in your non-dominant hand. Loop the yarn around the needle and pull new yarn through it make more cast on stitches. If you are following a pattern, then cast on the number of stitches that the pattern specifies. If you just want to practice the knit stitch, then cast on 10 stitches. Hold the needles in your hands. You should hold the needle with the cast on stitches on it in your non-dominant hand and the other needle in your dominant hand. Hold the needles near the points for better control of the knitting motion. Push the tip of the right needle into the first loop on the left needle. Place the needles so that the right needle crosses behind the left needle. Then, insert the tip of your right needle into the back of the first stitch on the left needle. When working the knit stitch, it is important to always go in through the back of the stitch. Check that the yarn is lying at the back of the needles. Your working yarn should always be behind the needles while you knit, so position it this way if it is not already behind the stitches. Loop the yarn over the back needle. Wrap your working yarn around the tip of the back needle, so that the yarn hangs between the two needles. This yarn will form your first new knit stitch. If you are right handed, then you will loop the yarn around counterclockwise. If you are left handed, then you will loop the yarn around clockwise. Pull the new yarn through the cast on stitch. Use your non-dominant hand to hold the free end of the yarn and ensure that the loop is secure. Then, pull the tip of the right needle gently back through the first loop towards you, bringing the yarn with it. Slip the cast on stitch off as you pull the new loop through. Let the old loop slide off the end of the needle. Keep the yarn taut after each stitch to keep the loops close to the needle but not so tight that you can't slide the needle into the loops. Be careful as you slid off the cast on stitch. Make sure that only the stitch that you knit into comes off. Continue to knit all of the cast-on stitches in the same way. You should have one new knit stitch on your right (dominant hand) needle. Repeat the process to knit the other cast on stitches. Complete the first row. When all of the stitches are on your right needle, you have finished your first row of knitting. You can continue knitting your other rows in the same way until you finish your project or until you feel like you have mastered the knit stitch. Hold the needle that has all the stitches in your left hand. To knit the second row as well, you do not have to reverse the movement. Simply switch the needle with all of the stitches on it over to your non-dominant hand again. You are now ready to start knitting your second row in exactly the same way as you did the first row. Knit the knit stitch row after row. This produces what is otherwise known as the garter stitch. If your pattern calls for the garter stitch, then you will simply need to knit all of the rows. Show off your work. Once you're skilled at knitting the knit stitch, you will find it becomes second nature and you'll be using it to make garments, accessories and much more. Practice the knit stitch until you feel comfortable using it. | Get a pair of knitting needles and yarn. Cast on your stitches. Hold the needles in your hands. Push the tip of the right needle into the first loop on the left needle. Check that the yarn is lying at the back of the needles. Loop the yarn over the back needle. Pull the new yarn through the cast on stitch. Slip the cast on stitch off as you pull the new loop through. Continue to knit all of the cast-on stitches in the same way. Complete the first row. Hold the needle that has all the stitches in your left hand. Knit the knit stitch row after row. Show off your work. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Buttermilk-Pancakes | How to Make Buttermilk Pancakes | To make buttermilk pancakes, mix 2.25 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoon of baking powder, 4 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Then, add 2 beaten eggs, 2.5 cups of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 3.5 tablespoons of melted butter, and 3.33 fluid ounces of vegetable oil to the bowl, and mix until there are no clumps in the batter. Next, heat a pan coated with oil over medium heat, and pour a scoop of the batter onto the pan. Let the batter cook for 3 minutes on one side before flipping and cooking for 1 minute on the other. | Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set a large mixing bowl on your work surface and put in 1⅓ cups (160 g) of all-purpose flour. Add 3 tablespoons (36 g) of sugar, 1 teaspoon (4 g) of baking powder, 1 teaspoon (4 g) of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon (5.5 g) of kosher salt. Then, whisk the dry ingredients for about 10 seconds and set it aside. If you want to make whole-wheat buttermilk pancakes, use 1 cup (120 g) of all-purpose flour and 1/3 cup (40 g) of whole-wheat flour. Mix the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and extract in another bowl. Crack 2 large eggs into a medium-sized mixing bowl and pour in 1 ⁄ 4 cups (300 ml) of buttermilk along with 2 tablespoons (28 g) of melted butter. If you want to add a subtle flavor, pour in 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of vanilla or almond extract. Whisk the wet mixture until the eggs are incorporated. If you don't have butter, substitute melted margarine, coconut oil, or vegetable oil. Whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until they're combined. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk the batter until the flour is absorbed, but don't overbeat it or your pancakes will turn out tough. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated so you don't overmix the batter. It's fine if the batter has a few tiny lumps. Grease a skillet or griddle with oil and turn the heat to medium. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of vegetable oil over the bottom of a skillet or griddle. Then, turn the burner to medium and leave the skillet or griddle to heat up before you add pancake batter. To test if your pan is ready, dip your fingers in water and flick them onto the pan. The water should sizzle and evaporate immediately. Don't use butter to grease your pan since it's more likely to burn. Spoon 1/3 cup (120 g) of batter into the pan for each pancake. Once your skillet or griddle is hot, scoop the buttermilk batter onto the pan. In general, use around 1/3 cup (120 g) of batter for pancakes that are about 5 inches (13 cm) wide. If you want to change the size, add more or less batter. Just leave at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) of space between each pancake so they have room to cook. If you're using a skillet, you might be able to fit only 1 or 2 pancakes at a time. If you're cooking them on a griddle, you can usually get about 6 pancakes at a time. Cook the pancakes for 3 minutes so they begin to bubble. Watch the surface of the pancakes and look for bubbles to form. These mean that the bottom of the pancakes are cooking. Avoid flipping them to check how they're cooking since you'll end up with a gooey mess! Flip the pancakes and cook them for 2 more minutes. Use a sturdy flat spatula that's at least half as wide as your pancakes. When the bubbles pop, quickly slide the spatula under a pancake and flip it over. Then, leave the pancakes alone as they cook on the other side. They're finished when both sides are golden brown. Adjust the burner if you notice the pancakes are getting too dark too quickly. If they're taking too long to cook, you may need to turn the heat up. Serve the pancakes with butter and maple syrup. Transfer the pancakes to serving plates and keep cooking the pancakes in batches. Spread softened butter over your short stack and drizzle it with maple or pancake syrup. To store leftover pancakes, cool them completely and put them in an airtight container. Refrigerate the buttermilk pancakes for up to 1 day. Add berries to the pancakes before you flip them if you want a fruity treat. It's easy to make blueberry buttermilk pancakes. Just sprinkle a few spoonfuls of fresh or frozen berries onto the tops of the pancakes after you pour the batter in your pan. You could also scatter fresh fruit over the cooked pancakes. For a fruity change, try any of these in your pancakes: Raspberries Chopped strawberries Blackberries Diced peaches or mango Put cocoa powder in the batter or add chocolate chips for decadent pancakes. To make rich chocolate buttermilk pancakes, remove 1/4 cup (30 g) of the flour and replace it with 1/4 cup (30 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder when you make the batter. You'll also need to add an extra 1 tablespoon (12 g) of sugar. To make chocolate pancakes that are over-the-top, mix 1/2 cup (90 g) of chocolate chips into the batter. Use your favorite type of chocolate chips. You could use semisweet, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, for instance. Stir 1/2 cup (50 g) of chopped mixed nuts into the batter for extra crunch. If you want to add some texture and protein to your buttermilk pancakes, stir some nuts into the batter before you cook them. The nuts pair really well with maple syrup. If you don't have mixed nuts, use any of these: Almonds Hazelnuts Walnuts Pecans Mix 2 teaspoons (4 g) of spices into the pancakes to customize the flavor. Add a touch of pumpkin spice or gingerbread flavor to your buttermilk pancakes. Just stir 2 teaspoons (4 g) of pumpkin spice, mixed spice, or apple pie spice to your batter before cooking the pancakes. If you don't have pre-mixed spices, use try 1 teaspoon (2 g) of cinnamon with 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground ginger and 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of nutmeg. Garnish the pancakes with chocolate sauce and whipped cream to make dessert. To make fancy buttermilk pancakes that are perfect for dessert, spoon chocolate sauce over them. Then, squirt a little whipped cream on top just before serving. For an extra special dessert, set out sprinkles, maraschino cherries, and chopped nuts. Then, let people prepare their own special buttermilk pancakes. Serve the buttermilk pancakes with fried eggs and sausage for a savory meal. Buttermilk pancakes don't have to be sweet! You can easily cook a couple of eggs to go with the pancakes or fry diced bacon or sausage in the skillet before pouring pancake batter onto it. This is a great option if you want meat inside the fluffy pancakes. Garnish your savory pancake breakfast with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, or freshly chopped herbs. | Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Mix the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and extract in another bowl. Whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until they're combined. Grease a skillet or griddle with oil and turn the heat to medium. Spoon 1/3 cup (120 g) of batter into the pan for each pancake. Cook the pancakes for 3 minutes so they begin to bubble. Flip the pancakes and cook them for 2 more minutes. Serve the pancakes with butter and maple syrup. Add berries to the pancakes before you flip them if you want a fruity treat. Put cocoa powder in the batter or add chocolate chips for decadent pancakes. Stir 1/2 cup (50 g) of chopped mixed nuts into the batter for extra crunch. Mix 2 teaspoons (4 g) of spices into the pancakes to customize the flavor. Garnish the pancakes with chocolate sauce and whipped cream to make dessert. Serve the buttermilk pancakes with fried eggs and sausage for a savory meal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Small-Fishtank | How to Clean a Small Fishtank | To clean a small fish tank, start by unplugging the aquarium's aerator, filter, and heater. Next, use a sponge or cloth to remove algae and grime from the sides of the tank before draining the water. Then, transfer your fish to a temporary container and remove all decorative items from the tank. Siphon out 50% of the old water into a 5-10 gallon bucket with a hose and vacuum the gravel. Finally, wipe down the outside of the tank with a vinegar-based solution. | Schedule time to clean your tank. With small fish tanks, you must do fifty percent or larger water changes at least twice weekly but preferably every other day. Without massive, frequent water changes, the tank can destabilize and put your fish at risk. Thus, it is important to schedule time to do your fish tank water changes and cleaning. Every other week, perform deep cleanings in which you remove decorations and scrub the interior. Observe your fish daily to see whether they look healthy and are behaving normally. Do they have good color, clean scales, unclamped fins? Or are they slimy and ragged? Remove any dead fish. If your fish look sluggish, stressed, or they are gulping for air, do a water change. It is not beneficial to perform deep cleanings too often, as you will remove essential bacteria. Gather cleaning supplies. Make a checklist to ensure that you have all the necessary supplies. Having your supplies on hand will speed up the process. Most supplies are available at pet or home goods stores. Use this list to help you. 2 fish nets Temporary fish tank or container Fresh water in the quantity you want to replace Algae pad New toothbrush 2 large buckets (5-10 gallons) Gravel vacuum Siphon Water conditioner Aquarium-safe glass cleaner or a vinegar-based solution Clean cloth Towel Prepare your work space. Place tarps or towels on the floor to catch any spilled water. Keep the tank in place. Do not move your tank or tip it into the sink. Juggling your fish puts them under stress and stirs debris in the tank. Dress appropriately. Wear a short-sleeved shirt or tank top. You might consider wearing a bathing suit. Aprons also can protect your clothing. Wearing water-resistant shoes like water shoes or flip flops is also a good idea. Unplug electrical devices. If applicable, unplug the aquarium's aerator, filter, and heater. Leave hood lights plugged in. Place the hood behind the tank to illuminate the tank. Scrub the sides of the tank. It is important to clean the glass before removing any water. Use an aquarium sponge or clean soap-free cloth to remove algae and grime. Some fish owners leave algae, as it is preferable to green water and provides food for many fish. Still, it is best to remove some algae. Fill your temporary fish tank or container with some original fish tank water. By using the current tank water, you will cause less environmental stress on the fish. Make sure your temporary container is clean and has no soapy residue. If you are unsure of its cleanliness status, clean it with an aquarium-safe glass cleaner or a vinegar-based solution. Remove fish or aquatic creatures from your tank with a fish net. Be gentle and mindful. You may want to use two nets. Use one net to herd the fish into the other net. Put your fish in the temporary container with the original tank water. Never put them in tap water. Do not allow the fish to jump from the temporary tank. Put a cover on the tank. Remove decorative items (plants, rocks, etc. ). While you do not need to remove decorative items for every water change, remove them for cleanings. Put them on a towel, and rinse them with clean, room temperature water. You may use an algae pad or new toothbrush as well. Do not use detergent or soap to wash them. The fish will die from the toxicity of soap. If algae overwhelms your decorations, consider changing your feeding or maintenance routines. Set up your five to ten gallon bucket. Place the bucket for catching the old water below the level of the fish tank. If possible, set the bucket on the floor or on a chair. Stability is important as is close proximity to the tank. It is best to buy a new bucket to use only for cleaning your fish tank. Residue from soaps or detergents can harm your fish. Siphon out the old water. Remove fifty percent of the water at a time. An appropriate siphon is a small 3/8" hose that is four to five feet long. Slowly lower the complete siphon into the aquarium. Ensure that all the air is out of the tube. Plug one end of the tube with your finger and lift that end from the tank. Keep the other end in the water. Lower the removed end towards the bucket while keeping your finger in place. When you remove your finger, the water should flow into the bucket. Slowly transfer the old water into the bucket. You can purchase a plastic tank siphon at pet shops. You also can purchase a small hand pump to put on the siphon to assist with the water transfer. Your fish are used to their old water. Removing all of it can be a shock to their organs. When you mix new water with the old water, your fish will be healthier. Vacuum debris from gravel. While you siphon water into the bucket, vacuum the gravel with the water siphon to remove fish waste and leftover food. Aquarium gravel vacuums are rigid, plastic tubes, two inches in diameter that attach to the siphon. Gravel vacuums use the momentum of the water flowing through the siphon to loosen debris and remove solid waste from your tank. It is crucial for a small tank to have good beneficial bacteria. Using gravel helps bacteria grow. Clean the exterior of the tank. Wipe down the outside of the tank. Use a vinegar-based solution or buy an aquarium-safe cleaner. Dry the exterior with a clean towel. Consider using an unbleached organic paper towel. Return decorations. After you finish cleaning your tank, return the decorations. Add gravel if necessary. Also, add any new decorations at this time. Treat water with conditioner. Prior to filling your tank with new water, treat tap water with a water conditioner. Try to find a conditioner that neutralizes chlorine, chloramine, ammonia, and other chemicals. Dechlorinators are essential. Be sure to condition the water in a clean bucket before adding it to the tank. Replace the removed water with fresh, treated water. Use a thermometer to verify the temperature of the new water matches the temperature of the old water. Having a consistent temperature for your fish is important for their health. Use your siphon to put the new water into the tank. Place your bucket at a height higher than the tank and slowly introduce the new water. Do not fill the aquarium too high. There needs to be space between the water's surface and the aquarium cover because your fish rely on oxygen exchange at the water's surface to breathe. Acclimate the fish to the new environment. Place them in a cup. Float the cup within the tank before releasing them. This process ensures the fish can adjust to the tank's water temperature and not go into shock when released. Release your fish into the tank. An alternative is to place the fish into small plastic airtight bags half filled with old tank water upon removing them from the tank. When you are ready to reintroduce the fish, float the bags in the tank for fifteen to twenty minutes. This will ensure that the water temperature is the same in both the bag and the tank. After this time, open the bags. | Schedule time to clean your tank. Gather cleaning supplies. Prepare your work space. Dress appropriately. Unplug electrical devices. Scrub the sides of the tank. Fill your temporary fish tank or container with some original fish tank water. Remove fish or aquatic creatures from your tank with a fish net. Remove decorative items (plants, rocks, etc. Set up your five to ten gallon bucket. Siphon out the old water. Vacuum debris from gravel. Clean the exterior of the tank. Return decorations. Treat water with conditioner. Replace the removed water with fresh, treated water. Acclimate the fish to the new environment. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Memorize-Flashcards-Effectively | How to Memorize Flashcards Effectively | Memorizing flashcards is a great way to help you learn new information and prepare for tests and quizzes. Try to keep your cards as simple as possible so they're easy to memorize. For example, you might put 1 term on one side of the card and a 1 sentence description on the back. You can also draw pictures on the cards if that helps you remember. Try to review your flashcards at least 3 times a day. Instead of going through the whole pile at once, look at a few flashcards at a time so you don't overwhelm yourself. It's also helpful to shuffle the cards and have other people quiz you to really challenge yourself. | Make your own cards. Writing down the information yourself--rather than borrowing a set-- is more effective. The process itself helps the learning and memorization process. Plus, this will help you summarize the information in a way that makes the most sense to you. It can be tempting to borrow someone else's flashcards, but this won't help you nearly as much as making your own. Use thick paper. When you make your flashcards, make sure you write them on thick cards or paper. You need to make sure you can't see through the paper to get the answer on the other side. If you are making your own cards, be sure that they are all the same size. You don't want different sizes of cards giving away the answers. Otherwise, you aren't memorizing the connection between the terms and explanations, but just what each size card says. That won't be very helpful when you're taking the test. A package of index cards is usually a great starting point, as they will all be the same size and made of nice, thick paper. Plus, one side usually has lines, helping you write neat sentences to explain concepts. Of course, it is better to use regular paper if you must than no flashcards at all! Make your cards early. Avoid waiting until the night before the exam to put together your flashcards. Instead, make a nice pile right after class or school. That is when the information will be freshest in your mind, and you won't have to try and remember everything when you start making the cards. This is also a good way to come up with questions to ask your teacher. If while making your cards, you come across a term that you can't write a good card for, ask your teacher about it in the next class. Write down the answer on the back of your card, and you've got a pre-made flash card ready to join the others. Keep your cards simple. In general, limit your cards to one word or one sentence. The less you need the remember for each card, the easier it will be the memorize it. Make sure you keep your information on each card limited to just a few words of information. For example, if you are studying for a history class, and are making a card for George Washington, you'll want to limit your information. Using small bullet points like “Commander during the American Revolution,” “First President of the United States,” and “Father of the Country” is better than a paragraph listing every detail you can cram onto it. If you are using your flashcards to ask and answer questions, keep to one question per card. For a history card, don't ask “Who was the first President, Vice President, Speaker of the House, and Chief Justice of the United States?” That is too much information at once. Not only will you have a hard time memorizing each piece of information, but also remembering which one is tied to which. Use pictures. In addition to the words on your cards, consider including a picture. Your brain is really good as remembering visual images, and adding them to your cards can help you associate them with words. These don't need to be detailed drawings, just simple designs to help remind you of what you are looking at. This is particularly helpful for flashcards to study a foreign language. In addition to the vocabulary you are trying to use, sketching a small picture can help the word stick in your mind. Use electronic flashcards. While handmade flashcards are a common study tool, there are many new technologies out there for creating electronic cards. You can store these cards on a smartphone or laptop and have them accessible wherever you go. There are many different programs available for free that allow you to create a database of cards from your own notes as well as other people's work. These programs can create games and other study methods to help you with memorization. Common software and websites for digital flashcards are Quizlet, Memrise and Anki. Sometimes they also couple with flashcards with spaced repetition. Review at least three times a day. Practice makes perfect. The more you go through your stack of cards, the more you'll be able to remember. You can set slightly different goals depending on how fast you get the information, but the more times you are able to go through them, the more you will remember. Space out your study sessions. Your goal shouldn't be to get through your flashcards three times as quickly as possible to skip doing it later. Taking a break between sessions will help you know what information you are having trouble remember. That way, you can focus on that more to make sure you get it right. Study in short bursts. The best way to help yourself memorize flashcards is to review them in small groups rather than push through the whole pile at once. This will keep you focused on smaller chunks of information, which is easier to memorize. This will also encourage you to pick the cards up for a quick study session between classes or while waiting for your friends to show up, knowing you don't need to rush so you can get through the whole thing. Take impromptu opportunities to use flashcards. Use odd moments of downtime to review. Waiting for the bus? On hold with customer service? Dinner cooking? Time to use the flashcards! Engage yourself. Don't let yourself zone out, or mindlessly flip through the cards. Instead, find ways to keep your attention up. When you read each card, say the words out loud, or say things like “I know this,” or “I don't know this.” Staying engaged with the material will help you stay focused on what you are doing. Try rewarding yourself: Every correctly memorized card gets you a small candy, for instance. Try some movement. Try wandering around the house with the cards. Do a squat each time you do a flashcard. Try doing it while doing wall sits. You may help your strength as well as wake up your mind! Shuffle your flashcards. Before you begin to go through and review your cards, mix them up a bit. If you just keep repeating the pile, you won't be memorizing the answers, just the order they appear in. Unless you know that's how the information will appear on your test, it won't be very helpful when you sit down to take it. Make separate piles as you read. As you go through the cards, separate them into different piles. These can be one for those you know or got right, one for the ones you definitely got wrong, and maybe a third of things you “sort of” know. Once you have finished, go through the “wrong” pile until you can get them all into the “right” pile, then do the same if you have a “sort of” pile. This will help you put extra emphasis on the information you don't know as well. Just remember which pile is which! If you are squeezing in a quick study session, you may want to skip the piles. That way, you won't accidentally forget some of your cards when you need to move and do something else quickly. Always keep your cards with you. Flashcards are quick and easy to use, so if you have a five-minute break between classes or on the bus, you can always pull them out for a quick study session. Cards are nice and small too, especially compared to your notebook or textbook, so they are much easier to carry. You never know when you'll get a few minutes to get in some quick studying, so always be prepared. Find a good study time. Memorizing things can be hard if you aren't awake and focused when reading your cards. Make sure you find a time during the day when you will be wide awake and won't be interrupted. This time will be different for every person, so you'll have to find the situation that works best for you. Listen to music. Having music on in the background when you study can help you remember things. Your brain will be able to connect information to the music by “playing” the song mentally in your mind. Avoid music with lyrics. The best music for studying is instrumental or classical music, or just ambient noise. When you hear music with lyrics, like rap or country, your mind will focus on the words, meaning you aren't paying as much attention to the cards you are supposed to be studying. Disconnect from the rest of the world. It can be hard to study effectively when your mind is somewhere else. If you are trying to study, you should put down your phone, get off the computer and turn off the TV. It might even be helpful to set a timer, knowing that you should only be memorizing flashcards until that alarm goes off. Move around. If you can, try to move around a bit while reviewing your flashcards. It doesn't have to be very far, just pacing a bit can help get your blood flowing. A quick walk around your bedroom or office should be enough. Even just standing in line at the coffee shop, or leaning against a wall can helpful, just something to get you up from your desk. Have others quiz you. Sometimes asking another person to help you is most effective, and a good way to keep you accountable. It can even be a person who has no idea about the subject, as long as he or she can read...a great job for younger siblings or your own kids! Focus on 1 topic at a time when you're studying. When you're studying with your flashcards, it's best to focus on 1 topic, test, or subject at a time so you can fully learn the material. If you have multiple tests or classes to study for, do it over the course of multiple study sessions so you can devote each session to 1 specific topic or test. For example, if you have 2 tests to study for, you could spend an hour studying for your first test, and then spend an hour studying for your second test the next day. | Make your own cards. Use thick paper. Make your cards early. Keep your cards simple. Use pictures. Use electronic flashcards. Review at least three times a day. Study in short bursts. Engage yourself. Shuffle your flashcards. Make separate piles as you read. Always keep your cards with you. Find a good study time. Listen to music. Disconnect from the rest of the world. Move around. Have others quiz you. Focus on 1 topic at a time when you're studying. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Burping-During-Pregnancy | How to Stop Burping During Pregnancy | While there's no way to totally prevent burping during your pregnancy, there are ways to minimize your gassiness. Large meals can make your burp and feel more bloated, so try eating smaller, evenly spaced meals throughout the day. Include lean protein, carbohydrates, and a fruit or vegetable in each meal to add nutrients and produce little gas. If you're still feeling gassy, try keeping a food journal for a few days to note what foods make you burp the most. Fruit juices, chocolate, or rich foods are the most common triggers. In addition to what you eat, make sure you drink plenty of water, which will help you digest your food and reduce how much you burp. While you may be tempted to take a gas-reducing medication, make sure to speak with your doctor first. | Consider eating smaller, more frequent meals. Large meals can make you burp more and feel even more bloated. Instead of eating standard three meals a day as you normally would, consider eating six small, evenly-spaced meals. Aside from minimizing excessive burping, a switch to six small meals may also help you cope with morning sickness. Many women find that having a little bit of food in their stomachs at all times reduces their nausea. Avoid eating within three hours of bedtime. Allow yourself time for digestion, even of a smaller meal. Notice what triggers burping. Your body's hormones will change during pregnancy. Your reaction to foods will be different. A food journal is one way to learn more about your body's response to particular foods. If you notice that eating certain foods is followed by burping, see if avoiding these foods results in less burping. Common triggers for burping during pregnancy are fruit juices, chocolate, or rich foods. Drinking a glass of milk may help relieve gas, particularly when accompanied by heartburn. Aim for balanced meals. Try to make each small meal include a lean protein, a complex or starchy carbohydrate, and a fruit and/or vegetable. In particular, lean proteins are a great way to add nutrients and cause very little gas. Small balanced meals will give you the vitamins, minerals, protein, antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients that you need. Eating too much at one time, or too quickly, will often cause burping. Eating slowing, chewing each bite well, will help prevent burping. Avoid foods that cause gas. There are some foods that are worse than others when it comes to gas. Some of these include beans, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and bran. Try to avoid eating these items if you want to reduce the amount of burping you are doing. You should also stay away from sugar-free products, as they could contain maltitol and sorbitol, both of which have a tendency to cause gas. Fatty, fried foods often trigger burping and heartburn. Choosing grilled, steamed, or baked foods is a better choice. Drink lots of water. Water helps you digest your food more efficiently and therefore will help you reduce how much you burp. When you become pregnant, your muscles relax more than usual. Muscle relaxation causes your digestion process to slow down and causes gases to build up. Water will help flush your system and reduce the gases stuck in your digestive tract. Aim to drink 64 ounces (or more) of liquid every day, mostly water. Drinking water actually helps to prevent water retention, which is another undesirable effect of pregnancy. Caffeinated teas, coffee, and other beverages should be limited to 200 mg per day. Usually this translates into a 12-ounce cup. Water carries nutrients to your baby too, and will prevent dehydration. If you don't like the taste of water, try adding a wedge of lemon or lime, or a sprig of fresh mint. Cut down on carbonated beverages. Sodas and other carbonated drinks contain compressed gases that encourage burping. Avoid them if you want to stop burping so often. Be aware that many sodas contain high caloric content as well as caffeine. If you choose to drink soda during pregnancy, drink it sparingly. Diet sodas should be avoided altogether during pregnancy. Research has shown that consuming diet soda may cause preterm delivery. Try herbal tea. Peppermint is a carminative – an herb or preparation that prevents the formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract or facilitates its expulsion. Drinking peppermint tea may help reduce burping. Chamomile tea also has a similar effect on the body. There are many other carminatives, and some of them – including cinnamon, garlic, and ginger – are easy to incorporate into your diet. Talk to your doctor, though, before trying other herbal remedies, as they may not all be safe to take during pregnancy. Eat slowly. When you eat too fast, you'll be swallowing air along with your food. This results in burping. Eating quickly may also be a sign of stress, which is connected to increased gas production. Avoid this issue by sitting up straight, eating slowly, and chewing your food thoroughly. You should also avoid talking while you eat because you are unknowingly swallowing more air when you talk and chew. If you think you may have had a meal that might make you burp a lot, go for a stroll after you eat. Walking will help to move the food through your digestive tract and reduce the desire to burp. Reduce the amount of air you swallow when drinking. Avoid this problem by practicing good posture, sitting up straight when you drink. Drinking directly from a cup or glass will help prevent swallowing air. You should also avoid switching quickly from hot to cold beverages (and vice versa), as sudden changes in stomach temperature can make you swallow more air. Bending over to drink from a water fountain results in swallowing air, leading to burping. Carry a water bottle, and fill it from a water fountain when needed. Avoid alcohol. Drinking alcoholic beverages increase stomach acidity, leading you to swallow more air. It also increases the chances of certain birth defects. Medical practitioners recommend eliminating alcohol completely, especially during the initial stages of pregnancy. If you feel that eliminating alcohol from your diet will be difficult for you, ask for help. If you don't feel comfortable talking to your medical provider about this issue, there are many anonymous helplines that you can call. Certain studies suggest that very light alcohol use in the latter stages of pregnancy will not result in harm. Light use means one to two alcohol units per week (one to two 5 ounce glasses of wine). More than six units per day can result in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a lifelong pervasive developmental disorder. Quit smoking. Smoking causes you to swallow air, which leads to increased gas and burping. In addition, smoking cigarettes is the leading cause of adverse outcomes for babies. Cigarette smoke contains over 4000 chemicals. Many are toxic to you and your baby. As the baby's only source of oxygen is the air you consume, these chemicals have a huge impact on your baby's development. Ask your medical provider for help quitting smoking. Stay calm, and carry on. Tension and anxiety aren't helpful to you or your baby, and they can increase gas and burping. This is a chance to engage in low-key activities you enjoy. Watching movies with friends, reading a book, or getting a massage can be therapeutic as well as fun. Deep sighs can also cause you to swallow more air than normal, which in turn leads to gas. Practice mindful meditation. Along with helping you relax, meditation will also help you to breath more calmly and effectively, thus eliminating any extra air you might be swallowing. Meditation has multiple benefits. It has been shown effective to minimize mood swings, to increase self-awareness, and decrease stress, which has a direct correlation to burping. You can practice mindfulness meditation in almost any setting. Sign up for a yoga or meditation class specifically designed for pregnant women. Yoga improves breathing, strengthens the abdominal muscles which will help you with excess air, and burping. Yoga has also been connected to better sleep, decreased anxiety, and fewer headaches. Avoid hot yoga, poses that require lying on your belly or back, and any pose that puts pressure on your abdomen. Exercise regularly. You may feel tired, but regular, mild to moderate exercise plays an important role in the release of hormones, enzymes, digestive juices, and stomach acid. If you exercise regularly, you may reduce excessive burping and promote good circulation, providing better blood supply to your baby. Go on a walk, or do light work in your garden. Even standing to wash dishes following a meal may be helpful in minimizing burping. Talk to your doctor about your exercise plans during pregnancy. Some doctors recommend avoiding strenuous activity. A lot depends on your individual health, so consult your doctor. Get enough sleep. Sleep is crucial during pregnancy, and getting a solid eight hours each night can help minimize annoying pregnancy symptoms. When you go to sleep at night, lie on your left side with one or both of your legs tucked up and bent. This position will help your digestive tract to do its job, reducing the amount of gas your body produces at night. Avoid exercise close to bedtime. Practice relaxation techniques to help with insomnia, and reduce stress. | Consider eating smaller, more frequent meals. Notice what triggers burping. Aim for balanced meals. Avoid foods that cause gas. Drink lots of water. Cut down on carbonated beverages. Try herbal tea. Eat slowly. Reduce the amount of air you swallow when drinking. Avoid alcohol. Quit smoking. Stay calm, and carry on. Practice mindful meditation. Sign up for a yoga or meditation class specifically designed for pregnant women. Get enough sleep. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Survive-Working-at-Home-As-an-Extrovert | How to Survive Working at Home As an Extrovert | If you love being around other people, having to work at home can be frustrating and lonely. One good way to stay motivated and upbeat is to maintain a regular routine. For example, get up and start working at the same time every day, and always get dressed like you would if you were going to the office. If possible, take a quick walk around the neighborhood every day so you can get some sun and even say hello to your neighbors. To keep from getting too lonely, check in with your coworkers from time to time by phone, text, or video chat. You could even try joining a group for professionals in your field and chatting with them online. | Get up at a specific time every day so you’re awake when others are. If you don't have set work hours, it can be easy to sleep in until whenever you want. However, it can be tough to transition from sleeping in to getting work done, and you may not be awake when your coworkers or friends are. Try setting an alarm to wake up at a reasonable time every day. It can also be easy to stay up super late on a work night since you don't have to leave your house in the morning. Try to get about 8 hours of sleep every night to keep yourself healthy. Take a shower and get dressed to make yourself socially presentable. Getting ready for the day sets you up for success, and it also allows you to video chat with your boss or coworkers if you need to. Shower, brush your teeth, put on clean clothes, and make yourself look presentable before you sit down for work. Getting dressed in nice clothes may also help you feel more able to chat with your neighbors if you see them around. Give yourself time to get out of the house. Try taking a short walk around your neighborhood or sitting in your backyard for 15 minutes every day. Allow yourself to disconnect from your work life for even a short time during the day to reduce stress. You can even set up times to take walks around the block with your neighbors for some social interaction. Talk to your coworkers via video chat or on the phone. If you work in a team setting, you can maintain communication with your coworkers by video chatting on your computer or setting up a conference call. This face-to-face interaction can be more helpful than sending emails or instant messages since you can see your coworkers faces and hear their voices. Join a group of working professionals in your field. If you work in a fairly popular field, you may be able to find other professionals in the same position as yourself. Try searching for your profession and your city to see if there are other people in your field that may want to work at a coffee shop or cafe a few times a month. This is also a great way to network with other professionals in your field. Volunteer to travel for your job. If you have a job that allows travel, ask your manager if you can be the one to go to the next conference or sales meeting. Doing this will allow you to get some face-to-face interaction with your coworkers and may even show your boss how dedicated you are to your job. If you can't travel for work because you have children or other obligations, that's okay too! It doesn't work with everyone's schedules. Work outside your home if you can. Try going to a coffee shop, cafe, or library to be around other people at some point during the day. Although you probably won't have full conversations with anyone, you can still make small talk with the baristas or say hello to your seat neighbor when you sit down. Sign up for a co-working space. Co-working spaces are common office areas where people who work from home can have an office space. Take a look around your neighborhood and see if you can sign up for one of these spaces to get you out of the house every day and give you some social interaction. Some co-working spaces require a monthly fee to save your spot. Go to groups or clubs that involve your hobbies. If you can't interact with people during your work day, you can do it after work instead. Look around for local groups in your area to see if any of your hobbies or recreational activities line up with existing clubs or groups. Try checking out the Facebook page for your city or town to find like-minded people near you. Running groups, hiking groups, and adult sports teams are great ways to stay active outside of work. Join a fitness class for some social interaction. If your schedule is flexible, try looking around at local gyms for yoga, palates, or spin classes. Joining one of these classes can help you stay in shape while also meeting and talking to new people. These classes are usually at the same time every week, which can help you stick to a routine. Make plans with your friends in the evenings. Set aside some time to hang out with people outside of your home. Ask your friends to go to happy hour, out to eat, or a walk around the block so you can maintain some social contact during the day. Not everyone is available to hang out after work, and that's okay. Try making plans with them on the weekends instead. Call your friends and family members on days you don’t have plans. If no one can hang out with you and you're really craving some social interaction, try calling up a close friend or family member on the phone. You can chat about your day, what's new in your life, or set up a time to see them sometime soon. You can even try video chatting with people to get some face-to-face interaction. | Get up at a specific time every day so you’re awake when others are. Take a shower and get dressed to make yourself socially presentable. Give yourself time to get out of the house. Talk to your coworkers via video chat or on the phone. Join a group of working professionals in your field. Volunteer to travel for your job. Work outside your home if you can. Sign up for a co-working space. Go to groups or clubs that involve your hobbies. Join a fitness class for some social interaction. Make plans with your friends in the evenings. Call your friends and family members on days you don’t have plans. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Zipcars | How to Use Zipcars | Zipcar is a ride share service operating in the U.S., Canada, and some European countries that lets you reserve cars through an app. To get started, you'll need to apply online and pay the 70-dollar membership fee. You need to have a valid driver's license and be at least 21 years old or a college student to apply. Once you receive your card in the mail, you're free to make reservations on the Zipcar app or website. You'll get 180 miles guaranteed per trip, and after that, you'll be charged 45 cents per mile. Aside from that and the membership fee, you won't have to pay anything for using the cars. If you run low on gas, you can fill the tank up for free with the gas card you'll find in the car. When you reserve a car, you'll see its location on a map. All you need to do then is walk to the car, scan your card on the reader on its windshield, and the car's yours until your reservation expires. You can generally reserve cars for 30 minutes to 7 days, but you can extend your reservation if no one else has booked the same car. | Make sure you’re eligible. In order to join Zipcar, you first need to meet all the eligibility requirements. To be Zipcar eligible, you need to be 21 years or older, have a valid driver's license and accept Zipcar's terms and conditions. If you are 18-20 years old and a student at a college or university, you are also eligible to join Zipcar. If you do not have a US or Ontario based driver's license, you must complete a “declarations form.” This form can be found on the Zipcar website and is used to certify that your license is valid and that you don't have any major driving violations. If you live in Michigan and are under 21, you must not have any alcohol related violations in order to join. Joining Zipcar is the same if you live internationally, but check Zipcar's website for a full list of international cities where the company operates. Note that in Spain, Zipcars are called Avancars. Apply online. In order to access a Zipcar, you need to join the ride share service. You can join Zipcar by applying online on the Zipcar website. You'll receive your Zipcard in the mail three to seven days later. To apply online, all you need is your driver's license and a credit or debit card to pay the $70.00 membership fee. Hang on to your Zipcard. You'll need it to reserve cars in the network. If you need to access your Zipcard immediately, you can pick one up at your local Zipcar office. Make sure to bring your driver's license and debit card with you. Both Zipcar's app and website work the same for international users. Try the 30-day trial. If you aren't sure Zipcar is for you, you have the option of joining for 30 days. If you decide you don't like the service, your membership fee will be refunded. This trial is for new members only. If you do not cancel your membership within 30 days, the coupon will be voided. To cancel your trial, call 1‑866‑4ZIPCAR. Book your reservation. Zipcar reservations can be made either online at Zipcar.com or by using the iPhone or Android app. You can also call Zipcar directly and make a reservation through a booking agent. Reservations made by phone will be charged an additional $3.50 agent fee. The Zipcar number is 1-866-4ZIPCAR. Zipcars can be reserved for as little as 30 minutes or as long as seven days. Zipcars can only be booked for one-way trips in Boston, LA and Denver. You cannot book a one-way trip internationally. Estimate your mileage. When booking a Zipcar, you are guaranteed 180 miles per trip. If you drive more than 180 miles in a 24 hour period, you will be charged an additional $0.45 for each mile. If you're using a premium vehicle, you will be charged $0.55 per extra mile. You can estimate your mileage for a reservation by going to your confirmation page and clicking the “details” link. If you live in Austin or San Diego, you can pay your mileage as you go. If you plan to use your Zipcar to drive into a different country, call Zipcar first to make sure that country is covered by Zipcar's insurance policy. Cancel your reservation. If you no longer need a Zipcar, you can cancel or shorten your reservation, provided you do so up to 3 hours before your reservation is due to start. For reservations that are longer than 8 hours, you must cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If you don't cancel or shorten your reservation, you will be charged the full amount. Locate the Zipcar. When you make a reservation for a Zipcar, you will receive a confirmation which will include the Zipcar's address. When it is time for your reservation, go to this address and find the Zipcar that matches the make and model that is listed on your reservation. Before entering, walk around your Zipcar and check for damage. If you see any damage larger than the size of your Zipcard, call the hotline to report it. Make sure to check the inside as well. If your Zipcar is damaged or dirty inside, call the hotline number (which is listed on your Zipcard). Unlock the Zipcar. To unlock the Zipcar, hold your Zipcard against the card reader, which is located in the windshield. Hold the card in front of the reader for a few seconds and the car will unlock. After your initial scan, you can use your Zipcar app to lock and unlock the Zipcar. If you have trouble unlocking your Zipcar, call the Zipcar hotline. Find the car keys. The car keys for the Zipcar are usually inside the car, attached to the steering wheel. The keys should remain inside the car for the duration of your reservation. Some cars use start buttons instead of keys. In order to start these cars, step on the break, then press the start button. In some countries, you can find the key by looking in the glove compartment. Extend the Zipcar reservation. If you're running late, you may need to extend your Zipcar reservation. To do this, either use your Zipcar mobile app to extend your reservation or send a text to the two-way text messaging system. You cannot extend a Zipcar reservation if someone has reserved the same car directly after you. You can sign up for two-way text messaging on the Zipcar website. You can also extend your Zipcar reservation by calling the Zipcar hotline. Fill up the Zipcar. If you run out of gas during your drive, you can easily fill up your car by driving to the nearest gas station. Use the gas card, which is located above the driver's side visor. When you're prompted for your pin number, use the first six digits on your Zipcard. When you're prompted to enter the mileage, enter the number you find on the odometer. If the gas card doesn't work, pay for the gas out of pocket and save the receipt for reimbursement. Do not return your Zipcar with less than 1/4th of a tank of gas. Return the Zipcar. Drive back to the Zipcar's home location and return the car to any open space. Remove all your belongings and clean up the Zipcar before exiting the car. Leave the keys in the car and lock up using your Zipcard or by using the mobile app. If you return the car late, you will be charged fees beginning at $50.00 | Make sure you’re eligible. Apply online. Try the 30-day trial. Book your reservation. Estimate your mileage. Cancel your reservation. Locate the Zipcar. Unlock the Zipcar. Find the car keys. Extend the Zipcar reservation. Fill up the Zipcar. Return the Zipcar. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Salted-Eggs | How to Make Salted Eggs | To make salted eggs, start by washing and drying the eggs, and putting them in a sterilized glass container. Then, make a brine by boiling water and gradually stirring in salt until it no longer dissolves. Next, add any desired spices, like star anise or Szechuan peppercorns, before cooling the brine and pouring it over the eggs. After that, cover the container and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before storing it in a cool location for 30-50 days, depending on how salty you want your eggs. Finally, rinse the eggs with cool water before eating them. | Wash and dry the eggs. Rinse the eggs under cool, running water while using your fingers to gently scrub away any dirt or debris. Dry the eggs with clean paper towels. While cleaning the eggs, inspect the shells for cracks. Discard any cracked eggs and keep the whole eggs. Duck eggs are preferred over chicken eggs for this recipe, but either will work. Duck eggs have tougher shells, and the yolks are both larger and oilier than those of chicken eggs. All of these traits can improve the taste and texture of the salted eggs. Sterilize the container. Bring extra water to a boil inside a kettle, then pour the water into the container you plan to use for the salted eggs. Glass or ceramic containers work best, and the container should also have a lid. You can also use multiple containers; for instance, you could use two or three 1-pint (500-ml) glass canning jars. If the container will crack under intense heat, do not sterilize it with boiling water. Clean it with warm water and soap instead, rinsing well to remove any residue. Place the eggs in the jar. Carefully stack the clean eggs in the clean jar. Be gentle to avoid cracking the shells. Try to leave at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of empty head space in between the eggs and the top of the jar. You can have more empty space than that, but if there's less empty space, the brine may not cover the eggs adequately well once you add it. Boil the water. Pour 5 cups (1.25 L) of water into a medium saucepan. Set it on the stove over medium heat and bring the water to a full boil. Dissolve the salt. Gradually add the salt to the boiling water, stirring after each addition. Dissolve the full amount of salt in the water before continuing. The goal is to fully saturate the water with salt. In other words, the water should become so salty that additional salt will no longer dissolve. If you are unable to dissolve some of the salt after adding it, do not add any more, even if you haven't used the full amount yet. Add the optional spices. If you wish to add spices to the brine, do so now. Star anise and Szechuan peppercorns are the most traditional. Adding spices to the brine can give the salted eggs a richer taste. You could add other spices alongside the star anise and peppercorns, too. Red chili peppers, garlic, ginger, cinnamon sticks, and whole black cardamoms are among some of the most popular choices. If you don't have any of these spices, you could also use 1 to 2 Tbsp (15 to 30 ml) of your favorite tea leaves. The egg shells will deepen in color if you take this option. Cool the brine. Remove the brine from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. Do not pour hot brine over the raw eggs. Doing so could cause the egg shells to crack. Add the optional wine. If you wish to add the Shaoxing wine, do so now. Stir well to fully distribute the wine throughout the brine. Adding the wine to the brine will enhance the taste while changing the yolk to an orange-red color. It should also mask the odor of the eggs while restricting the growth of bacteria. This step isn't strictly necessary, though. Pour the brine over the eggs. Pour the cooled brine solution over the eggs in the jar. The brine must cover the eggs completely. If the brine does not cover the eggs, top off the containers with additional room temperature water. Leave at least 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.25 cm) of empty head space in between the surface of the brine and the top edge of the jar. Weigh down the eggs. Some of the eggs may float the top of the brine as the eggs sit. To keep the eggs submerged throughout the entire process, place a sealed plastic bag filled with additional water on top of the eggs. Some people prefer to use a small plate to weigh down the eggs, which may also work well. If you choose that option, pick a relatively light plate to avoid crushing the eggs on accident. If the lid of the container sits relatively deep, it alone might be enough to keep the eggs submerged, especially if the eggs and brine nearly fill the container to the top. Let the eggs sit for 15 minutes. Cover the container with its lid and let the eggs sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. During this time, the brine should begin permeating the shells of the eggs. It will be easier for this process to start while the eggs are still at room temperature. Store the jar for 30 days. Place the jar in a cool location and keep it there for about one month. A refrigerator, cellar, or cool garage would work well. Some recipes recommend cool storage, but others recommend room temperature storage. Cool storage can help preserve the eggs for a longer period, but either method could work. Test the eggs. After 28 to 30 days pass, remove one egg and test it. You can test the egg raw or cooked. If you use chicken eggs instead of duck eggs, you may need to test an egg after the first three weeks instead of waiting until after the fourth. To test the egg raw, crack it open and examine the yolk. It should be firm and darker in color than a standard raw yolk would be. If the yolk runs, the remaining eggs will need additional brining time. To test the egg cooked, hard boil the egg before breaking it open. The yolk should be deep in color, very oily, and very salty. If you'd prefer saltier eggs, give the remaining eggs additional brining time. Continue storing as desired. If the eggs are not ready yet, seal the container again and continue storing them for another week or so. You can brine the eggs up to 50 days, but you shouldn't let them sit out beyond that period of time. Longer brining times will result in saltier egg whites and oilier egg yolks. Rinse the eggs when ready. When the salted eggs have the taste and texture you prefer, remove them from the brine and rinse the eggs under cool, running water. Dry the eggs with clean paper towels and transfer them to a clean egg carton. Discard the leftover brine. Boil the eggs. If you'd like to eat the salted eggs on their own, you should boil the eggs in water before consumption. To boil the eggs : Place the eggs into a large saucepan and cover them with cool water. Place the pan on the stove over medium heat. Bring the water to a boil. After 1 minute, turn off the heat and cover the saucepan. Allow the eggs to continue cooking for a total of 20 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Cool the boiled eggs under cold water. Use the raw eggs in recipes. If you'd rather not eat the eggs plain, you can use raw salted eggs in many traditional Chinese recipes. Consider using the salted eggs when making moon cakes or rice dumplings. You can also cook the salted eggs by mixing them into stir-fries, congee, or soup. Refrigerate any unused eggs. Raw salted eggs can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to one month. Boiled salted eggs can be refrigerated up to one week. | Wash and dry the eggs. Sterilize the container. Place the eggs in the jar. Boil the water. Dissolve the salt. Add the optional spices. Cool the brine. Add the optional wine. Pour the brine over the eggs. Weigh down the eggs. Let the eggs sit for 15 minutes. Store the jar for 30 days. Test the eggs. Continue storing as desired. Rinse the eggs when ready. Boil the eggs. Use the raw eggs in recipes. Refrigerate any unused eggs. |
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