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https://www.wikihow.com/Lower-Myostatin-Levels

How to Lower Myostatin Levels

Myostatin is a protein that can prevent muscular growth, and you can lower your myostatin levels with resistance training and aerobic exercises. You should aim to work out at a moderate intensity with aerobic exercises for 20-30 minutes a few times a week. You can bike, use an elliptical machine, swim, or go for a jog. Or, do some resistance training, like push-ups, bicep curls, and leg extensions. Do 10 of each exercise once a day to get a good workout. Besides exercise, you can take a follistatin supplement, which can help inhibit the production of myostatin in your body. Just make sure to talk to your doctor to ensure it's safe for you.

Put the “HIRT” to your myostatin levels. Resistance training of any kind can improve health and build muscle. But to lower myostatin levels, you'll need to engage in high-intensity resistance training (HIRT). This means doing resistance training that pushes you to your physical limits. HIRT requires doing full-body workouts. In other words, your resistance training regimen should work your arms, back, and legs. String several resistance training exercises together for a superset. Instead of limiting your set by the number of repetitions per exercise, limit it by a length of time. Perform as many repetitions as possible without resting during the time limit you've set. For instance, do 10 push-ups, 10 pull-ups, 10 leg extensions, then 10 biceps curls as quickly as possible over the course of about 10 minutes. If you've gone through the 10 biceps curls before the 10-minute time limit has elapsed, start the cycle again by doing 10 push-ups. Rest one or two minutes between each superset, stretching the muscles you've used. Use caution during HIRT. HIRT can be physically taxing. Talk to your doctor before adopting a HIRT exercise regimen and don't perform HIRT more than three or four times per week. Give your body time to rest and heal, too, ideally at least one day between workouts. It's best not to do HIRT sessions on back-to-back days. Choose the right weight. When doing resistance training, you must choose the right weight for you. Start at the lowest weight for whatever machine or barbell you're using. Perform 10-12 reps. If you find that it was very easy and you don't feel taxed by the end of your 10-12 reps, add weight in small increments. You'll know you've found the right weight for you when 10-12 reps is significantly taxing. Perform biceps curls. Grip a barbell from below with your palms facing up. Grip the barbell in such a way that the weights on either end are equidistant from each hand, and place each hand shoulder-width apart from the other. Lift the bar to your chest using your elbows. Keep your elbows pinned to your side as you lift. Sliding your elbows behind your ribs will decrease the amount of work your biceps do. Don't swing the bar up using the momentum from your hips. Use a chest press machine. Sit at the chest press machine and adjust the seat for your height. The handles should be situated near the middle or bottom of your pectoral muscles. Lay your hands on the handles of the machine. Your shoulder blades should be retracted. If they are not, adjust the position of the machine's handles so that they are. Keeping your head and chest up, press the handles forward, extending through the elbow. Pause briefly when you've reached your maximum extension, then return the handles to a position just beyond the starting position in order to keep the tension on. Use a machine shoulder press. The machine shoulder press is not unlike the chest press, except that instead of pushing forward, you push up. Grip the handles of the machine, keeping your elbows in line with your torso. If your elbows are not lined up with your torso, adjust the level of the seat. Lift the handles as you exhale. Extend your arms slowly. When you reach your maximum extension, hold the position briefly, then bring the handles back down to a place just above the starting position. Try other resistance exercises. There are many other resistance exercises that could lower your myostatin levels. For instance, you might want to do squats or lift free weights. Resistance bands are also good and very easy to use at home. Exercise at a moderate intensity. When using aerobic exercise to reduce your myostatin levels, you have significant leeway regarding how much exercise you wish to do. To begin reducing myostatin levels you need only exercise at about 40% to 50% of your maximum ability. Pushing yourself beyond these basic exercise levels will result in a greater decrease in myostatin. Working out at moderate intensity on a bike, elliptical, or in other aerobic exercises will feel similar to taking a brisk walk. You should burn at least 1,200 calories each week to see real declines in your myostatin levels. To track the number of calories you burn, check the digital readouts on your aerobic exercise equipment, or use a wearable fitness tracking device (for instance the FitBit). It takes about 3,500 calories to lose one pound of body fat. If you don't need to lose weight, make sure to eat more or supplement your diet to recover this energy. Use an elliptical. An elliptical training machine (sometimes called a “ski machine”) is a popular piece of equipment that can help you lower your myostatin levels. To use the elliptical machine, step onto the machine's foot pads. Place your left foot in the left foot pad, and your right foot in the right foot pad. Grab the left and right handles. Select the settings under which you wish to train. For instance, you can increase the machine's resistance or set time or calorie burning targets, keeping in mind how many calories you've consumed. The handles and feet pads on a given side of the machine work in opposition to each other. In other words, as you swing the machine's right handle forward, your right leg will move back. On the opposite side, the left hand will be pulled back and your left foot will be moved forward. Swing your feet and arms forward and backward in time with the machine. Ride a bike. Riding a bike is a common aerobic exercise and can lower your myostatin levels. You can ride either a regular bike or a stationary bike to gain the benefits of lowered myostatin. Ride at moderate intensity to lower your myostatin levels. Aim to burn 1,200 calories per week by riding a bike – or more or less depending on your weight goals. Always use safety when riding a bike. Wear a helmet and ride in the bike lane, or as close to the curb as possible. Do not ride against traffic and do not ride on the sidewalk. Go for a jog. Running is one of the most common forms of aerobic exercise and can lower your myostatin levels. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing when running. Choose a clean, well-lit path. Aim to jog at least 20 minutes. As you gain strength and build endurance, add time to your run in 10-minute increments. Try to increase your pace to a run for the last 5 minutes. This will boost your heart rate and is great for your cardiovascular health Try other aerobic exercises. There are many aerobic exercises you could do which, over time, could lower your myostatin levels. For instance, you might choose to jump rope, go swimming, row a boat, or do jumping jacks. Do not smoke. Smoking is associated with higher myostatin levels. To lower your myostatin levels, do not start smoking. If you are already addicted to nicotine, adopt a plan to quit smoking. The best way to quit smoking is to gradually phase out the behavior. For instance, if you decide that in two weeks' time, you want to stop smoking completely, cut your cigarette intake by 25% today. Cut it by another 25% about five days later. After about 10 days, cut your cigarette consumption by 25% again. Finally, when two weeks have elapsed, smoke your final cigarette. Nicotine gum and patches can also help you combat your addiction. Use a myostatin inhibitor. Myostatin inhibitors are experimental and are for people with medical conditions that affect muscle development. You might qualify for treatment using one, though, if your goal is to treat such a disorder. You'll need a prescription since they are not available over the counter. Talk to your doctor about your options for lowering your myostatin levels using an inhibitor. Another experimental procedure, myostatin-inhibiting gene therapy, is in the early stages of development. This may someday be available for patients with degenerative muscle disorders. Ask about follistatin supplement. Follistatin inhibits the production of myostatin. Follistatin-based supplements may be available that can lower your levels of myostatin. Most of these supplements use fertile chicken egg yolk isolate, so if you have an egg allergy, you might not be able to use them. Generally, follistatin supplements come in powdered form. They are blended with water or milk, then consumed. Follistatin is expensive, not widely available, and may pose risks to the liver. Still, talk to your doctor about whether it might be an option for you.

Put the “HIRT” to your myostatin levels. String several resistance training exercises together for a superset. Use caution during HIRT. Choose the right weight. Perform biceps curls. Use a chest press machine. Use a machine shoulder press. Try other resistance exercises. Exercise at a moderate intensity. Use an elliptical. Ride a bike. Go for a jog. Try other aerobic exercises. Do not smoke. Use a myostatin inhibitor. Ask about follistatin supplement.

https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Lamb-Steaks

How to Cook Lamb Steaks

To cook a lamb steak, start by heating some oil in a skillet. Then, sear the steak on both sides in the skillet, letting it cook for 30 seconds on each side. After you've seared the steak, transfer it to a baking dish and bake it in the oven for 30 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ask your butcher to cut lamb steaks from a leg of lamb. Many butchers don't sell pre-cut lamb steaks. However, your butcher will be happy to cut them for you from a whole leg of lamb. One leg of lamb will typically yield six steaks, each large enough for one serving size. Ask for steaks cut about 2/3-inch thick. This allows for a quick cooking time and tender results. If your butcher doesn't have a leg of lamb, this method can also be used to cook lamb chops. Mix your marinade. Peel and chop the garlic into fine pieces. Mix the garlic, rosemary, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a shallow baking dish or another nonreactive dish. This marinade will penetrate the steaks for a tender result. If you're in the mood for a different flavor combination, try one of these: Yogurt mint marinade: mix 1/2 cup whole milk yogurt, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup chopped mint, and salt and pepper to taste. Tandoori-spiced marinade: mix 1/2 cup whole milk yogurt, 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon minced ginger, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon coriander, 1 teaspoon cumin,1 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon salt. Barbecue marinade: Mix 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup malt vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons tomato sauce and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mustard marinade: Mix 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Lay the steaks in the marinade. Make sure the steaks get completely coated with the mixture on all sides. Add extra olive oil if necessary. When you're finished, cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least eight hours. You can start the recipe in the morning and refrigerate during the day, or do it the night before and let the steaks marinate overnight. Turn the steaks halfway through to make sure both sides get completely marinated. Preheat your broiler or light the grill. Lamb steaks taste best when they are seared with high heat or fire, so broiling or grilling are the optimal cooking methods. Allow the broiler or grill to fully heat up before proceeding. If you're using a grill, let the coals burn until the fire dies down and the coals glow bright red. The steaks must be grilled over very high heat. If you'd prefer to use a stovetop method, heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Allow it to get very hot. Place the steaks on the broiler rack or grill. Use tongs to transfer them from the marinade to the rack or grill. Reserve the extra marinade in its container. Arrange the steaks so that they are all centered over high heat with no overlap. If you're using a cast iron skillet, you may need to cook your steaks in more than one batch. Sear the steaks on both sides to seal in the juices. Let the steaks cook on one side for thirty seconds, then quickly flip them to cook on the other side for thirty seconds. This keeps the steaks moist inside as they cook. Let the steaks continue cooking on the second side for five minutes. Baste the steaks with extra marinade as they cook. Use leftover marinade to baste the steaks as they cook. A basting brush or barbecue mop is the best tool for the job. Turn the steaks and cook for three more minutes. After three minutes, remove the steaks to a serving platter. This cooking time results in a medium rare steak that's still pink in the middle. If you prefer medium to well done steaks, let them cook for an extra 30 seconds to 1 minute. If you prefer rare steaks, remove them after the last side has cooked for 2 minutes. Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet. Heat the oil until its surface begins to shimmer and the skillet is hot. Sear the steaks on both sides. Use tongs to remove them from the marinade and place them on the skillet. Reserve the marinade in its container. Sear on one side for 30 seconds. Flip the steaks and sear for another 30 seconds. Transfer the steaks to a baking dish. It should be large enough to hold all of the steaks with no overlap. Pour the remaining marinade over the steaks. Try to distribute it evenly over the steaks. Add extra salt and pepper to taste. Bake the steaks for 30 minutes. Remove them from the oven and allow to cool for five minutes. Transfer the steaks to a serving platter and serve.

Ask your butcher to cut lamb steaks from a leg of lamb. Mix your marinade. Lay the steaks in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least eight hours. Preheat your broiler or light the grill. Place the steaks on the broiler rack or grill. Sear the steaks on both sides to seal in the juices. Baste the steaks with extra marinade as they cook. Turn the steaks and cook for three more minutes. Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet. Sear the steaks on both sides. Transfer the steaks to a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the steaks. Bake the steaks for 30 minutes.

https://www.wikihow.com/Introduce-Your-Kitten-to-the-Outdoors-Safely

How to Introduce Your Kitten to the Outdoors Safely

If you want to introduce your kitten to the outdoors safely, choose a time when it's quiet and dry. Wait until just before one of the kitten's normal feeding times, since if it's already hungry, it will be more likely to come back when you offer it a bowl of food. When you're ready, open the door and step outside, then let the kitten explore on its own terms. Let it stay outside for about 10 minutes, supervising it the whole time, then offer the cat a bowl of food and call it back inside. Gradually increase the amount of time the cat spends outdoors.

Enclose your yard before letting out your cat. To keep your cat from getting out, install special attachments to your fence that prevent it climbing over. Find these fencing attachments online and at pet stores. Enclosing your yard with fence attachments is especially important if you live near potential hazards, such as busy roads or highways. Introduce your kitten to the outdoors just before mealtime. If you free feed your cat, take its food away several hours before you train it to go outside. Otherwise, let it outside for the first time just before one of its scheduled feeding times. A hungry kitten will be more likely to respond when you offer a bowl of food and call it back indoors. Get a bowl of food ready just before you let it out for the first time. That way, you won't have to leave your kitten outside unsupervised while you fix its food. Choose a quiet, stress-free time to let your cat go outside. Make sure the surrounding area is free of scary, stressful sights and sounds, like a neighbor's barking dog or noisy kids playing nearby. Additionally, check the weather forecast, and let your cat out on a dry day. If your kitten gets spooked, it could form a negative association with the outdoors or, even worse, run away and get lost. Cats use their sense of smell to find their way back to your home. Avoid letting your kitten out after a rainstorm since it will remove the scent and make it more difficult for your cat to find its way back. Open the door and let it explore on its own terms. When you're ready to train your kitten to go out, simply open the door to your yard and take a step outside. Hold the door open, and allow your pet to follow you outside at its own pace. Cats are cautious animals, so it'll probably take a couple of minutes before it's comfortable leaving the house. Keep the door open so your kitten can go back inside if it feels squeamish. Don't pick your cat up or force it to go outside. If it darts around or hides under a shrub, try not to worry. Keep your distance and let it get accustomed to your yard. If your kitten doesn't want to go outside or runs back into the house, just let it stay inside. If it wants to be an indoor kitty, keep it active and entertained with toys, scratching posts, and climbing perches. Call your cat and offer food after about 10 minutes. When you're just starting out, keep your cat's trips outside brief. After 10 minutes, offer it a bowl of food and call it back indoors. If it doesn't come right away, give its bowl a shake and make encouraging verbal cues to get its attention. Remember to prepare your kitten's food in advance so you don't have to head into the house and leave it alone outside. In addition, grab some of its favorite treats just in case the bowl of food doesn't catch its interest. It's also helpful to teach your cat to come before letting it go outside. Offer a tasty treat, say “Come,” and reward your pet with the treat when it comes to you. Keep practicing until it reliably comes on command. Stay calm if your kitten doesn't come back immediately. If it doesn't return right away when you call it, don't try to chase it, shout, or call frantically. Try calling it using a calm, normal voice instead. Food with a strong odor, such as sardines or tuna, could do the trick. Place the food inside near the door, keep the door open, and wait for your cat to come investigate. Increase its time outdoors gradually. Practice going outside every day and, with each training session, add a few minutes to its time outdoors. When your kitten seems to come and go with confidence, you can start letting it spend longer periods of time outside without supervision. Even after acclimating your cat to the outdoors, keep it inside overnight and in hot, cold, or rainy weather. Cars and predators pose a greater risk when it's dark, and bad weather could take a toll on your cat's health. Let your cat out only after it’s fully vaccinated. Wait at least a week after your cat has finished its course of vaccinations before letting it go outside. A cat that goes outside is exposed to more diseases than cats that stay indoors, so vaccinations are essential. Consult your kitten's vet about legally required vaccinations, and ask if they recommend any additional vaccines for cats that spend time outdoors. Generally, a kitten completes its core vaccinations by the time it's 5 or 6 months old. Keep in mind some important vaccines aren't always legally required. For instance, although it isn't always a core vaccination, your vet will still recommend vaccinating your cat against feline leukemia virus (FeLV) if you plan on letting it go outside. Spay or neuter your kitten before letting it go outside. If your cat isn't already fixed, schedule an appointment with its vet. When kept as pets, kittens are typically spayed or neutered by the time they're 6 months old. However, with proper veterinary care, even an adult cat well into its teens can be fixed. Spaying or neutering your kitten lowers its risk of developing cancer and other illnesses. In addition, you wouldn't want to deal with a litter of kittens after letting your female cat outside unsupervised. Finally, fixing your cat will lower its risk of getting into fights with other felines. Give your cat routine flea and tick preventative medicine. While oral medications are available, topical treatments are the most popular routine parasite preventatives for cats. To use the treatment, apply the medication between your cat's shoulder blades once a month. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging; doses vary and usually depend on a pet's weight. Discuss parasite preventative treatments with your cat's vet and use your product as instructed. While over-the-counter products are available, treatments prescribed by vets are more effective, and it's wise to have your vet recommend the right product and dosage for your pet. Keep your cat away from chemicals, toxic plants, and other hazards. Check your backyard for hazards, and make sure anything that could hurt your cat is out of its reach. Store chemicals, such as antifreeze, on shelves in a garage or shed. Research any plants you keep in your garden and make sure they're safe for cats. Toxic plants include amaryllis, azaleas, elephant's ear, lilies, hyacinths, and oleander. For a full list, see https://www.cats.org.uk/dangerous-plants. Get your pet acclimated to your home before letting it go outside. It usually takes a few weeks for a cat to adjust to its surroundings. However, the right length of time depends on your kitten. Observe its behavior, and make sure it appears confident, interacts with you and your family members, and knows where it can find its food, litter box, and toys. Place a tag with your contact information on your kitten's collar. To stay on the safe side, always keep identification on your cat. Secure a collar to its neck with a tag that lists your name, your cat's name, your phone number, and your address. Cats can squeeze in and out of tight spaces, so make sure the collar fits securely around its neck. The collar shouldn't be so loose that it can slip off, but you should be able to fit 2 fingers between the collar and your cat's neck. Microchip your cat just in case it gets lost. A pet microchip is a device the size of a grain of rice that, when scanned, reveals your contact information. Implanting one is a relatively inexpensive procedure, so call the vet and invest in a chip just in case your cat gets lost. Once a chip is implanted in your cat's neck or upper back, you'll need to keep it updated. If you move or change your phone number, go online or call the company that hosts the chip to upload your new contact information. Consider harnessing your cat or letting it out in an enclosed area. To prevent your cat from getting lost altogether, don't let it out unsupervised. Walk it on a leash, keep it tethered in your yard, or let it out in an enclosed patio or cat run. Keeping your cat harnessed or enclosed is best if you live near potential hazards, such as a busy road, predatory birds, or a big dog that routinely gets loose.

Enclose your yard before letting out your cat. Introduce your kitten to the outdoors just before mealtime. Choose a quiet, stress-free time to let your cat go outside. Open the door and let it explore on its own terms. Call your cat and offer food after about 10 minutes. Stay calm if your kitten doesn't come back immediately. Increase its time outdoors gradually. Let your cat out only after it’s fully vaccinated. Spay or neuter your kitten before letting it go outside. Give your cat routine flea and tick preventative medicine. Keep your cat away from chemicals, toxic plants, and other hazards. Get your pet acclimated to your home before letting it go outside. Place a tag with your contact information on your kitten's collar. Microchip your cat just in case it gets lost. Consider harnessing your cat or letting it out in an enclosed area.

https://www.wikihow.com/Hardboil-Eggs-in-a-Microwave

How to Hardboil Eggs in a Microwave

To hard boil eggs in the microwave, start by putting them in a bowl and then filling the bowl with water so the eggs are completely covered. Then, add 1 tablespoon of salt to the bowl to prevent the eggs from exploding in the microwave. Microwave the eggs on medium for 6-12 minutes, depending on how cooked you want them. Once the eggs are done microwaving, let them cool completely before serving.

Grease a microwave-safe bowl with butter. Rub the inside of a small, microwave-safe bowl with butter using a paper towel. Custard ramekins work well if you are only cooking 1 egg, but you can use any size container. You can also use olive oil spray instead of butter. Sprinkle 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) of salt into the bowl. You don't have to be super accurate with your measurements of salt, but try to use enough to cover the bottom surface of your container. Salt will help the egg cook evenly, and may give it some more flavor. You can put more salt on the egg after it's cooked if you'd like to. Crack the egg into the bowl. Tap the side of the egg onto the side of the bowl, then pull open the shell. Let the egg white and the yolk fall into the bowl, being careful not to include any of the shell. You can cook more than 1 egg at a time, but it may not cook as evenly. Pierce the egg yolks with a knife or a fork. Even the thin membrane holding the yolk together will build up pressure as the moisture inside heats up, which can lead to an exploding egg. Prevent this by piercing each yolk with the tip of a knife, skewer, or fork 3 to 4 times each. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Rip off a piece of plastic wrap that's slightly larger than your bowl, then stick it down to the edges so that no heat can escape. This will help trap in the steam that the egg makes when it's hot so that it cooks faster. Never use aluminum foil in the microwave, or you could start a fire. Microwave the egg for 30 seconds at 400 watts. If you can adjust the power setting on your microwave, turn it to medium or low. Your egg may need more time in the microwave, but it's better to start low and slow to avoid any explosions. If you can't adjust the settings on your microwave, just assume it's on high and microwave your egg for 20 seconds instead of 30. It's better to undercook your egg at first so you can fix it later. Put the egg back in for 10 seconds if it’s undercooked. Check the yolk on your egg to see if it's hard. If it's still too soft, put it back in the microwave on low or medium power for about 10 seconds. Try not to cook it for much longer than that, or it could get too hot. A cooked egg will have white, not clear, egg whites and a firm orange yolk. Wait 30 seconds before unwrapping your egg. The egg will still cook inside the bowl after you take it out of the microwave. Make sure the egg whites are set and the yolk is hard before you start eating your egg.

Grease a microwave-safe bowl with butter. Sprinkle 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) of salt into the bowl. Crack the egg into the bowl. Pierce the egg yolks with a knife or a fork. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Microwave the egg for 30 seconds at 400 watts. Put the egg back in for 10 seconds if it’s undercooked. Wait 30 seconds before unwrapping your egg.

https://www.wikihow.com/Take-a-Name-off-a-Car-Title

How to Take a Name off a Car Title

To take a name off of a car title, first check how the names are currently listed. If the car is owned by one owner "and" the other, both owners need to sign to make the transfer; if they're listed as "or" or "and/or," only one owner needs to sign. Fill out the title certificate like it's a car sale, so that the person you're removing from the title is the "seller" and the new, sole owner is the "buyer." Fill out the form as directed and check your state's laws to see if you need a notary present. Take the forms into the DMV to finish the process.

Treat the name change as a sale. The person whose name is being removed from the title should complete the sections on the back of the title certificate as though he or she were selling the car. The other person, whose name is remaining on the title, will be listed as the buyer. The new “buyer” will then take the completed title to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and complete the steps for issuing a new title. Check the names currently on the title. It makes a legal difference if the names appear on the title joined by “and,” “or,” or sometimes “and/or.” If the names are joined by “and,” then both named individuals will have to sign the title as “seller” make the transfer to the one person who is going to remain. If the two names are joined by “or” or by “and/or,” then either person alone can legally complete the transfer. Suppose, for example, that two friends want to start a band and travel the country together in a van. They buy the van together, and the title lists the owners as “John Smith or David Roberts.” If the band breaks up someday, either John or David could change the title into his own name without requiring a signature of the other one. (This example is just given to show the technical importance of the names. If this actually happened, however, the band member who got left out might have a law suit against the other one for half the value of the van.) Be careful. At least one state, Arizona, treats the “and/or” differently. In Arizona, for example, if the names on the title are listed as A “and/or” B, then it is treated the same as “and,” and both people must sign the transfer. Check for lien holders. If the original title has one or more lienholders listed, then you have two options – either pay off the loan in full, or get the lienholder to agree to the change. If you cannot pay off the loan, and the lienholder does not agree to the change, then you will not be allowed to make the name change at this time. Complete the form on the back of the title certificate. Fill in all the spaces as though you were selling the car. The “seller” is the person whose name is coming off the title. The “buyer” is the person whose name is going to remain. Be very careful. It is important to fill out the form completely and neatly. In some cases, if you make a mistake and cross out your error, the Department of Motor Vehicles may not accept the form. You would have to request a completely new title, and then start the transfer over again. Some states require that the signatures be notarized. Find out ahead of time if this applies to you and do not complete the form until a notary is present. Some states require that you complete the forms at the DMV in person. Find out if this applies to your state as well. Call ahead and see if it is possible to make an appointment, so that you can reduce the amount of time that you'll need to wait. Take your forms to the DMV. In most cases, a transfer must be done in person at the DMV. In some states, you may be able to submit the paperwork by mail. Call your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or check their web site online to find out which of these situations applies to you. Change the title to match your divorce settlement agreement. As part of the divorce, you need to decide who will keep the car, and who will be responsible for the payments, if there are any. Usually, these are the same. But after a divorce, things can get different. For example, you may agree that one party will continue paying the loan and insurance, while the other party will get full ownership of the car. Make the changes to the title to fit your agreement. In most cases, a transfer is treated as a sale, and the state is likely to charge a sales tax when the title is changed. However, in the event of a divorce, some states may waive this tax if you present a divorce order along with the application for the new title. You will have to check with the registry in your state to see what applies to you. Treat a gift as a transfer and correct the title accordingly. Suppose the original title had two individuals' names on it, say a parent and child. At some point, the parent chooses to give the car completely to the child as a gift. This will require having the parent remove his or her name from the title as described in this article. Complete the form as a transfer, with the sale price as $0. This may avoid a sales tax or use tax. Correct the title to show a donation to charity. Many people choose to donate vehicles, particularly older ones, to charities. This will allow them to take the value of the car as a tax deduction, as long as the organization is a recognized 501(c)(3) charity. If you are doing this, complete the title the same as any other transfer, but put the name of the charity or it authorized representative as the “buyer,” with a sale price of $0. You will then give the completed paperwork to the charity. The charity will be responsible for completing the work with the DMV in order to transfer ownership. Decide what additional forms may be needed in case of a death. In case one owner on the title of a car passes away, the remaining owner will need to consider whether additional papers are needed, or even if any additional steps are necessary. If the title was in both spouse's names, the surviving spouse can generally submit the original title with a copy of the death certificate. If the vehicle was left to someone in a will, then the executor of the estate will need to submit an affidavit or certificate along with the title. In any event, it will probably be advisable to get a probate attorney involved to make sure that the transfer is completed properly.

Treat the name change as a sale. Check the names currently on the title. Check for lien holders. Complete the form on the back of the title certificate. Be very careful. Take your forms to the DMV. Change the title to match your divorce settlement agreement. Treat a gift as a transfer and correct the title accordingly. Correct the title to show a donation to charity. Decide what additional forms may be needed in case of a death.

https://www.wikihow.com/Walk-Two-Dogs-at-the-Same-Time-on-Leashes

How to Walk Two Dogs at the Same Time on Leashes

To walk two dogs at the same time on leashes, first wait until they're calm and staying still before clipping on their leashes to set the right tone for good behavior on their walk. When it's time for the walk, use two leashes of the same material, preferably nylon, leather, or rope, so they're less likely to get tangled. You can hold the leashes however feels most comfortable for you, but you may want to have the bigger dog's leash in your dominant hand. Start off with short walks in a calm area free of distractions so the dogs can get comfortable walking together. Then, gradually work your way to longer walks in busier areas.

Get the right equipment. If you want to walk two dogs together, you must first train each dog individually. If one or both of your dogs are not leash-trained, walking them together will be very difficult. To start, leash train your dogs together. Make sure you have the right types of leashes and colors for effective training. When it comes to leashes, make sure you get two leashes of the same material. Leashes made from similar material are less likely to tangle. Leashes made from nylon, leather, and rope tend to work best for walking two dogs at once. Chain leashes or retractable leashes tangle easily when used together, so these are better avoided. When it comes to collars, you can use your dog's regular collar. However, if one or both of your dogs is new to leash training, consider a gentle leader. This fits over a dog's snout, preventing strain on the neck from pulling and allowing you more control as an owner. A walk harness may also work. If you're walking smaller dogs, opt for a harness since collars and standard leashes may hurt their necks. Make sure your dog behaves before a walk. If you want your dog to be well-behaved during his walk, make sure he behaves beforehand. If you allow your dog to jump, bark, or otherwise misbehave prior to walking, this sets the tone for poor behavior. You want to work on training your dog to behave before and during his walk. Dogs often act out to get a response from you of any kind. If your dog gets excited before a walk, and begins jumping and whimpering, ignore it. Do not scold your dog, as this is the attention he's craving. Stand completely still. Wait until your dog is standing with four paws on the ground before clipping on the leash. If your dog starts jumping and acting excited as you lean down to put the leash on, stand back up again completely. Once again, remain still until your dog is calm. Repeat this process as many times as needed. You should not clip your on your dog's leash until he is completely calm. Practice loose-leash walking in short training sessions. When you're first beginning to train, practice loose-leash walking in short sessions. Loose-leash walking is when you hold the leash with some slack. You allow your dog to sniff and explore, but pull the leash gently if your dog is pulling or resisting your direction. When you first start, keep training sessions brief. You can practice a technique called "red light, green light." Walk with your dog and, as soon as he pulls, stop in your tracks. Keep standing still until your dog stops pulling and call him towards you. When he comes, reward him with a treat and praise. Continue this pattern throughout the walk. This will teach your dog he needs to follow your lead on walks, and obey the direction and signals from his leash and collar. Use treats, if necessary. Treats can also help with leash training. The use of a treat can teach a dog to walk near you rather than pulling on the edge of the leash. To start, have several treats in your hand when you begin the walk. You should also have extra treats in your pocket, bag, or purse. Hold the hand with the treats in front of your dog's nose, about one inch away. Start walking. Every few seconds, praise your dog for walking near you and give him a treat. When you run out of treats, pull more out of your bag or pocket. Increase the distance you go each day. After a week, stop using treats as a lure. Just keep your hand at your dog's side, with some treats in your pocket. Reward your dog every once in awhile with a treat, but not as often as you were before. Gradually, decrease the amount of treats per walk. Eventually, your dog should walk at your side without expecting a treat as a reward. Practice positive and negative reinforcement. Remember, dogs respond to positive and negative reinforcement. When your dog behaves, reward in the immediate moment with treats and praise. When your dog misbehaves, simply ignore the behavior until it stops. Make sure to reward good behaviors the moment they occur. Dogs live in the immediate moment. They need to be rewarded right away to understand why they're receiving praise. Make sure your dogs are friendly with each other. If you want to walk your dogs together, make sure they get along first. If you've had both dogs for awhile, you may already know how well they get along. If your dogs are generally friendly with one another, they'll probably adapt well to walking together. If one dog is new, however, you may want to wait a bit before attempting to walk them together. They may need time to get used to another before they can be good walking companions. You should also make sure your dogs are friendly with other dogs. If your dogs sometimes get territorial on their own during walks, they may develop a pack mentality when walking together. This can result in a lot of aggression. If one or both of your dogs tends to be territorial, keep in mind you'll have to quickly correct any aggressive behavior during the walk. Walk both dogs with another person. If your dogs have never walked together before, it's a good idea to start out walking the dogs with another person. You can walk one dog, and a friend or family member can walk the other. You can walk side-by-side, keeping the dogs parallel. Do a few brief training sessions, in calm areas, with another person to walk one dog. If your dogs are already friendly with each other, this may not be necessary. If one dog is relatively new to the home, however, this step can really help your dogs get used to one another while walking. Hold the leashes in a way that feels comfortable for you. There is no strict right or wrong answer when it comes to holding two leashes during a walk. A lot depends on the size of your dogs, and your sense of control. Some people feel like they have adequate control holding the leashes in a single hand. However, with bigger and stronger dogs, you may feel better holding one leash in either hand. If one dog is bigger or stronger, you may want to hold his leash in your dominant hand. Practice with short walks in calm areas. Once your dogs are comfortable walking side-by-side, you can start walking them together. However, you should start slow. Have brief training sessions in areas free of outside distractions. Choose a calm area free of distractions. You can practice walking your dogs in your backyard, for example, or a portion of your neighborhood that is usually free of traffic and people. Keep sessions brief. Short walks are best at first, as it will take time for both you and your dogs to get used to walking as a group. If one dog gets antsy or distracted, you may want to end the training session and do a quick practice session with the problem dog. He may need a quick refresher about basic leash manners. Build up to busier areas and longer walks. As with leash training dogs alone, you'll gradually work your way up. Once your dogs are behaving well in a calm area, practice walking them on busier streets. Gradually increase the duration of walks. Over the course of a few weeks, experiment with different areas and walk your dogs a little longer each day. Eventually, they'll learn to cooperate together on a variety of types of walks. Correct competitive behaviors. Dogs may sometimes get competitive with one another during walking sessions. They may fight with one another to sniff a certain spot first, for example. Work to correct these behaviors as they occur to get your dogs to work well together during walks. You can correct problem behaviors as you would correct them when walking one dog. As soon as one or both dogs misbehave, stop dead in your tracks. Do not move until both dogs calm down. Introduce two dogs gradually. If you have a new dog in your home, gradually introduce him to other pets. You should do this well before you attempt to walk your dogs together. Dogs are territorial by nature, and need time to adjust to a new family member. Keep the dogs separated at first. Allow the new dog free range of the house for only 15 to 20 minutes several times a day, at first. Allow the old dog to explore the house after the new dog is put away. This will let both dogs get used to one another's scent. The first face-to-face meeting should occur outside of the home. This will minimize potential aggression over territory. Keep both dogs on a leash and allow them to sniff one another and gradually make introductions. Make sure your dogs are a good match. Not all dogs are going to walk well together, even if you strictly follow a training regimen. Some dogs are simply a poorly suited match, and should not be walked together. Dogs should be around the same energy level and age. An elderly dog is not going to be able to keep up pace with a young, rambunctious puppy. You should also keep size in mind. Physically, a toy poodle is not going to be able to keep pace with a Great Dane. Watch out for negative body language. You don't want to walk with dogs if they're getting aggressive with one another. If you notice any negative body language during training, this is a sign your dog is stressed and agitated. You should cease training for the day and try again when your dog is calm. Keep a close eye on both dogs' faces. An agitated or aggressive dog may have rounder eyes, dilated pupils, and may be showing a lot of the whites of his eyes. You also may notice his mouth is closed with lips wrinkled slightly. This is a sign of agitation. If your dog starts wrinkling his muzzle, this is a sign of aggression and you should separate the dogs. Pay attention to the rest of the body. A tail that's between the legs or held up without movement could indicate fear or aggression. If your dog is upset, his hair may rise along his back. He may also tremble or crouch when scared. When aggressive, a dog will try to make himself look big by standing with his head raised above the shoulders.

Get the right equipment. Make sure your dog behaves before a walk. Practice loose-leash walking in short training sessions. Use treats, if necessary. Practice positive and negative reinforcement. Make sure your dogs are friendly with each other. Walk both dogs with another person. Hold the leashes in a way that feels comfortable for you. Practice with short walks in calm areas. Build up to busier areas and longer walks. Correct competitive behaviors. Introduce two dogs gradually. Make sure your dogs are a good match. Watch out for negative body language.

https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Teenage-Boys

How to Deal With Teenage Boys

Teenage boys often have a reputation for being moody, which can make them hard to deal with. If you're friends with a teenage boy, it's important to stay loyal and be understanding of his feelings, since he's probably going through a lot of physical and mental changes due to puberty. Part of his physical changes are increased levels of testosterone, which can cause him to have outbursts of anger that are hard to control. Try to deescalate situations by giving him space. Alternatively, try to talk to him about the issue when he has calmed down. Boys often mature more slowly than girls, so be patient with him if you find that some of his behaviors are childish.

Know that going through puberty can change their point of view. Boys normally go through puberty between the ages of 11 and 16. It is during these years that they experience most of their physical changes (including growing taller and developing muscle). During and after these years they'll normally start to develop their sexuality. They'll start to look at themselves, and others, differently. If you're a girl who is a friend of a teenage boy, he might start to treat you differently. On one hand because he's experiencing changes in his emotions (and hormones). And on the other hand because your physical appearance is changing. This change doesn't mean you've done anything wrong, it is an unfortunate part of growing up. Teen boys can also become confused or unsure about their sexual orientation. He may need your help and support to figure out who he is. Read body language. Body language is the movements or positions of someone's body that can show us how they're feeling. Being able to read your friend's body language can help you determine the best method by which to deal with him. The ability to read body language starts with the ability to observe. Practice reading body language by observing people in everyday settings like the mall, the bus or the coffee shop. Some examples of body language to watch out for in your friend: If you see your friend walking the hallways at school with his hands in his pockets and his shoulders hunched over, he's probably feeling dejected. If your friend often plays with his hair or adjusts his clothes in some way, he's probably nervous about something. If your friend is tapping or drumming his fingers against the table, or fidgeting a lot, he's probably impatient about something. If your friend is talking to someone either with his arms crossed in front of him, or holding something in front of him, he's being defensive. Be empathetic. Empathy is the ability to understand and appreciate someone else's feelings. In other words, it's understanding what it is like to be in their shoes. Empathy allows you to understand what someone else is going through, and sympathize with them. Being empathetic also helps build better relationships. Being empathetic includes being able to listen. It is difficult to understand how someone is feeling, if you don't allow them to talk. When listening to your friend talk, think about how you would feel in the situation he's describing. Chances are, if you would feel a certain way, so would he. Some examples of how to be empathetic to your friend: If your friend is telling you a story where he's expressing a lot of different feelings, listen carefully and repeat back some of the things he's telling you. It shows you're listening and actually care about what he's saying. If your friend is giving his opinion about something, listen without judgement. Then ask yourself why he might feel that way. Put yourself in his shoes before jumping in with your own opinion. If your friend had a particularly embarrassing experience that he doesn't want to talk about, open up to him by telling him a story where you embarrassed yourself. Your friend will be more likely to share his own experiences if you've shared yours. Show compassion. The next step after empathy is compassion. Compassion is wanting to help someone who needs help. Once you have gained an understanding for how your friend is feeling, you can determine what you need to do for him. Being compassionate is another way in which to build healthy relationships. Reach out to your friend and ask him if he needs anything. If he doesn't know what he needs, think about what you'd like in his situation and offer that. Show an interest in your friend and use your curiosity to ask questions and get to know him better. Be kind to your friend when you know he's being teased or treated badly by others. Don't become part of the gossip or teasing yourself. Stay loyal. One major part of friendship is loyalty. Sticking with a friend through thick and thin, through good and bad. Not allowing rumours and gossip from other people to sway how you feel about your friends. It also means making sacrifices for your friends when they need something. Loyalty and friendship might be more than keeping their secrets, it may mean breaking their confidence in order to help them. Loyalty may also mean telling your friend something he doesn't want to hear, by being honest. The truth may hurt, but it may be what he needs. Do not bow to peer pressure. Your peers are those around the same age as you who have the same interests as you. Most of the time your peers and your friends are the same group, but not always. Because you hang out with your friends everyday, you will end up influencing each other in both good and bad ways. However, when your peers (friends and otherwise) start to pressure you to do something you either do not want to do, or you know you should not do, it is considered a negative influence. The teenage boy you're friends with may start to feel and act awkward. Other may attempt to pressure him into doing things he doesn't want to do. As his friend, stand by him and support him through times like this. Beware of aggression. The body and the brain of a teenage boy is going through a lot turmoil and change. The brains of teenage boys are physically changing and it makes them more likely to act irresponsibly. In fact, these physical changes in the brain impact the teen's ability to respond emotionally with rage, fear, panic and anxiety. Add a large amount of testosterone to the mix, and you have the possibility of aggression and other negative behaviour. If your friend is arguing with you and appears to be becoming aggressive, stay calm. If an argument becomes too heated, and it doesn't appear that your friend is going to calm down, walk away. Tell him you'll continue the conversation in 30 minutes. Give him the opportunity to calm down before resuming the conversation. If your friend ever becomes violent, your safety comes first. Remove yourself from the situation if possible. If that's not possible, and you fear for your safety, call 911. Know when it’s time to start dating. There's no rule as to when it's okay to start dating, it's up to you (and your parents). If you're ready and comfortable, and your parents are okay with it, it might be the right time. The important thing is not to feel pressured to start dating when you don't want to. Determine if he’s the right guy. Do you like him? Is he nice to you? Do you get along with him? Are you attracted to him? Do you get butterflies in your belly when he's near? Before you start dating a guy, this may be all you have to go on. But it's a good starting point. If you have a good feeling about him, and you're ready, it's worth going out on a couple of dates to get to know him better. Understand his weird behaviour around you. Between the changes that happen to girls and boys during puberty, girls actually have it a little easier. There's a big time period when puberty can start for girls, but once it starts, it finishes up pretty quickly. Boys, on the other hand, can continue to grow and change into their 20s. This means that teenage boys are constantly feel awkward and disoriented. This is made especially worse if a boy finds himself growing at a rate slower than his friends. Boys experience a chance to their voice box in their teenage years, which will eventually make their voices deeper. But their voices, while this process is happening, may sound weird to them. They may be uncomfortable having a conversation with you simply because they're embarrassed about their voice. This may not be something you want to think about, but one of the major changes a boy goes through in puberty is to his penis. The increase in size to his penis and scrotum, and the increase in hormone levels, can result in a lot of unwanted erections. Simply having a dirty thought about a girl might cause one. Unfortunately the boys can't always control this, which may make them very uncomfortable about you. Boys begin to demonstrate more mature social skills around the age of 17. Before this, they may still be somewhat immature and childish. Because girls mature faster, they may find boys somewhat annoying until their mental maturation catches up. Go on a date. When a guy asks you out, it doesn't mean he instantly becomes your boyfriend. Start off with one date and go from there. Dates can be anything you want them to be - going to a coffee shop, theatre, restaurant, sports event, etc. Whatever you decide to do for the date, it should be something you both enjoy. If the first date goes well, go on a second date, and so on. If the date doesn't go well, that's okay, maybe you weren't meant for each other. Date for the right reasons. Some teenagers feel the need to date in order to get one-on-one attention, possibly because they have low self-esteem or self-confidence. Others feel the need to date in order to feel like they have control or power over someone else, or because they need the boy in order to gain some sort of status among their peers. None of these are good reasons to start dating. If these are the only reasons you can come up with as to why you want to date a boy, then it might not be a good idea to date him. You would just be using him in order to gain something for yourself, which isn't fair to him. Be yourself. Whether you decide to go ahead and date a boy, or you're just friends with one, remember to be yourself. Any boy who wants you because you're pretending to be someone else, doesn't actually want YOU. And even if the relationship works out at the beginning, it won't be able to last. Eventually your true self will surface - you won't be able to pretend to be someone else forever. You don't have to date someone of equal intelligence. If you're smarter than them, that's okay. If they're smarter than you, that's okay. Don't pretend to be dumb to make the boy feel better about himself - he'll feel worse about himself when he finds out you're only pretending. Recognize if there's love. When you first start dating a boy you may feel like you're in love with him right away. It's possible that its true, but it's also possible it's infatuation or attraction. Sometimes it will last, sometimes it won't. If it doesn't last, it could be because real life interferes with your ideal view of each other. Annoying habits become apparent, and character flaws become obvious. Real love takes time and effort. And you will not end up in love with every guy you date. Love, in a relationship, involves attraction (physical chemistry), closeness (emotional connection) and commitment (dedication to each other). Recognize a healthy relationship. A healthy relationship lasts, even when the annoying habits of each person become apparent. A healthy relationship also includes: being respectful of each other, and each other's time; learning to give and receive; being able to share all feelings, good and bad; being able to listen to each other and support each other's ideas and needs. If you feel any of the items of a healthy relationship are missing between you and your boyfriend, talk to him about it. If you're able to resolve the issue, that's an excellent sign the relationship has staying power. If you're unable to resolve the issue, it may be time to move on. Conclude if it’s time to breakup. Not all relationships work out. People may grow apart gradually, or they may determine rather quickly that they weren't meant for each other. Regardless of when you or your boyfriend determine it's time to move on, don't consider your relationship a waste of your time. Every relationship you have is a valuable learning experience. Any relationship has to meet the needs of both people involved. If your boyfriend isn't meeting your needs, or you aren't meeting your boyfriend's needs, it's time to move on. Breaking up isn't fun, and you will likely feel horrible, but these feelings will eventually go away. Don't sacrifice your long-term happiness for short-term bliss. Understand why he's angry. Teenage boys experience surges in their hormones (testosterone), which can have an effect on their ability to feel fear and causes them to loose their inhibitions. In turn, this can cause them to engage in dangerous activities simply because they aren't able to process how dangerous it is. And, they tend to allow their emotions, especially anger, to rule their reactions. Create structure. Teenage boys need structure in their lives, overseen and directed by their parents. This structure is not due to a lack of trust, but rather the biological fact that teenage boys haven't yet developed the brain function to make safe choices based on the possible consequences. As the parent, work with your teenage son to develop a daily routine for them. Make sure he's involved in the process, but ensure the end result is what he needs. Ensure he gets lots of sleep. Sleep is vital at any age, but teenagers need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep every night in order to be functional. Ideally, they should develop a regular sleep pattern. A sleep pattern can help increase the quality of the sleep they get. Not getting enough sleep can slow down many of his abilities - such as the ability to learn, listen, concentrate and solve problems. It can also cause him to forget very simple items like someone's phone number, or when homework is due. A lack of sleep can cause health problems, including acne. And can cause him to consume more unhealthy items like coffee or soda. Not getting enough sleep can also affect his behaviour, causing him to become irritable or angry faster than he would normally. He may end up being mean or rude to someone that he'll regret later. Make him feel like part of the family. The anger felt by a teenage boy may make him feel as if you (their parents) don't trust him. You need to make him feel that he's trusted, and loved, while teaching him the importance of family and community. Encourage him to participate in family events and volunteer in the community. Teach him about responsible financial management. Show him how to be respectful of other people, their rights and their property. Rather than telling him what you want him to do, ask him. When making rules, allow him to be a part of the process. Communicate with him effectively. Teen boys need more than simple verbal reminders or instructions in order to comprehend what is needed or required of them. In addition to verbally providing him with instructions, also do the following: Make eye contact when providing instructions. Ask him to repeat what you've told them. Use short and simple sentences. Allow him to respond and ask questions. Don't turn instructions into a lecture. Help him understand responsibility. Responsibility can be learned in multiple ways. Many teenagers can learn responsibility from example - by watching and mimicking responsible people. But it can also be learned by making mistakes and incurring the consequences of irresponsible behaviour. As corny as it sounds, the statement “with power comes great responsibility” is very true. Teenagers need to learn that power, privilege and responsibility are all connected. The best place for them to learn this is from their parents. Pick your battles. Teens, in general, change often. For example, their fashion changes with the trends. As a parent, you might not be able to keep up, and you might be shocked by some of the clothes your teen decides to wear. While you may be tempted to make rules regarding clothes, keep in mind that you may also want to save your battle for something much more important (like drinking, drugs, curfew, etc.). Another change teens experience often is related to their mood. Many of their mood swings are driven by the hormonal and developmental changes. In some cases, they may not have complete control over their emotions, or their reactions. Realize friends have more influence than you. In the teenage years, your son's friends will most likely have more influence over his actions and behaviours than you do. It's not because he doesn't love or respect you, he's just trying to find his way in the world. Try not to take this personally, and try not to get angry. Your anger towards him may cause him to withdraw further from you, and in turn, cause you to withdraw from him. He may not act like it, but he still need your support. Enforce the rules. Teens are known for trying to push the limits, with you and with others. One way he may do this is by trying to get away with breaking the rules (e.g. how much later can he come home after curfew before you say something). It's important that your enforce the rules you've made, or those limits will continue to be tested. It may also influence how your teen reacts to rules outside the home. You want to set a good example of how important rules are, and that they need to be followed. Recognize the warning signs. 'Normal' teenage behaviour is one thing, but some teenage behaviour can indicate a much more serious problem. Watch for signs of more serious problems, and seek professional help as soon as possible. Extreme amounts of weight loss or weight gain. Ongoing sleep problems. Rapid, drastic and long-lasting changes in personality. Sudden change in close friends. Skipping school and falling grades. Any form of talk about suicide. Signs of smoking, or alcohol and drug abuse. Constantly getting in trouble at school, or with the police.

Know that going through puberty can change their point of view. Read body language. Be empathetic. Show compassion. Stay loyal. Do not bow to peer pressure. Beware of aggression. Know when it’s time to start dating. Determine if he’s the right guy. Understand his weird behaviour around you. Go on a date. Date for the right reasons. Be yourself. Recognize if there's love. Recognize a healthy relationship. Conclude if it’s time to breakup. Understand why he's angry. Create structure. Ensure he gets lots of sleep. Make him feel like part of the family. Communicate with him effectively. Help him understand responsibility. Pick your battles. Realize friends have more influence than you. Enforce the rules. Recognize the warning signs.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Property-Settlement-Agreement

How to Write a Property Settlement Agreement

If you're getting divorced or separated, you'll want to write a property settlement agreement to determine how your property will be divided. Sit down with your spouse and agree on how you'll divide your property and debts, like furniture, vehicles, pets, cash accounts, savings bonds, and loans. You'll also need to agree on whether one of you will stay in the house or if you'll sell it. If you can't reach an agreement after a few meetings, consider going to mediation, where a professional can help you settle things. Once you've reached an agreement, get a sample agreement from your local court or draft your own. You'll need to include both your names, your marriage date, and separation date. Then, detail who will receive each of your assets and debts. You'll both need to sign the agreement, then file it with your court.

Decide what you want. Before talking with your spouse, you need to be clear in your own mind about what property you want and what debts you are willing to take on alone. You might want to meet with a lawyer for a consultation. In the absence of an agreement, your state law will determine who gets what. Accordingly, you should understand the “default” rules before going into negotiations. For example, if you are entitled to half of all marital assets, there is no reason to get less than half in the marital settlement agreement. Identify your marital assets. You will need to divide assets you own jointly with your spouse. You won't divide separate property, which you own individually. Each state's laws will determine what you own jointly and what you own separately. In a “common law” state, any asset acquired during marriage belongs to the person who bought it. However, if both names are on the deed or title, then that piece of property belongs to each. In a “community property” state, things are different. All earnings and property bought with earnings belong equally to both spouses as community property. Community property starts with marriage and ends on the date of your separation. Community property states include Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. In community property states, a spouse's separate property is limited to what they bought before marriage, what they bought after separation, or what they have individually inherited or were given as a gift. Calculate marital debts. Just as state law determines which assets are marital, your state law will determine which debts are jointly owed by both spouses. For example, consider the following: In a common law state, both spouses owe a debt only if it benefited the marriage, such as to buy food, or if both spouses jointly signed for the debt. All other debts are separate. In a community property state, most debts acquired during marriage are shared equally by the spouses. There are some wrinkles which you should discuss with a lawyer. Furthermore, in a community property state, the debt is yours alone if you incurred it before marriage or after separation. Talk with your spouse. Ideally, you will reach an agreement on how to divide assets and debts. Find a quiet place to talk away from the children. Before the meeting, each of you should write down a list of marital assets and debts. Compare your lists and talk about who should get what. You might not reach an agreement on everything in the first meeting. That's okay. Continue to meet and work down through your assets and debts, dividing them between you. Continue to meet so long as you feel you are making good progress. Attend mediation if necessary. You might not be able to reach an agreement. If not, consider mediation. In mediation, you and your spouse will meet with a neutral person, the mediator. They will listen to your disagreement and help you both agree to a solution. Many courthouses have mediation programs. You should stop in and check. You might also find mediators in your phone book or by searching online. Your local or state bar association might also keep a list. Generally, you will divide the costs of mediation evenly. Mediators typically charge about $100-200 an hour, though the cost will depend on location. Find a sample for your state. Some courts and legal aid clinics have sample property settlement agreements, which may be posted online. Look and print off a copy if you find one. You can use the sample as a model when drafting your own. Avoid copying word for word. Instead, analyze whether your situation is slightly different and adjust the form accordingly. Format your document. You'll want to type the property settlement agreement. Open a blank word processing document and set the font to something easy to read, such as Times New Roman 12 or 14 point. Give your page one-inch margins on all sides. You can title the document “Property Settlement Agreement.” Put the words in all caps, bolded, and centered. Provide important details about the marriage. At the beginning of the document, you should introduce yourself. State the date you were married or entered a domestic partnership and the date of separation. For example, you can write, “We are Michael Smith, ('Husband') and Julie Smith, ('Wife'). We were married on May 31, 2000 and separated on February 1, 2017. Because of irreconcilable differences, our marriage has broken down.” If you're a same-sex couple, you can use your first names instead of “Husband” and “Wife.” Also use first names if you are ending a domestic partnership. State that you have made a full disclosure of assets. If either spouse hides assets, then the judge might not approve your property settlement agreement. Accordingly, you must disclose everything and confirm that you have at the beginning of the settlement agreement. For example, you can write, “Each of us states that we have made full disclosure, and that we have included everything we are aware of when listing assets that we own. Each of us states that we believe the other person has been forthcoming when writing this property settlement agreement. We agree to be bound by this agreement and agree to exchange any papers needed to complete this agreement.” List which property person A transfers to person B. Preface the list with something like “Jonah transfers to Allen as Allen's sole and separate property” and then list the property underneath. For example, you might transfer any of the following: tangible assets, such as furniture in your home, a vehicle, jewelry, art, etc. your pets cash accounts, savings bonds, and other financial instruments all or part of the cash value of a life insurance policy sentimental gifts of little material value Identify the property spouse B transfers to spouse A. Do the same as you did just above. For example, you can type out “Allen transfers to Jonah as Jonah's sole and separate property” and then list the items. If you didn't have any joint property, then you can write, “We have no community property” or “We have no marital property.” State which debts spouse A will pay. For example, you can write, “Husband will pay the following debts and will not hold Wife responsible for them at any time.” Then list the debts, such as the following: credit card debts student loans debts owed to department stores or other vendors personal loans List the debts the other spouse will pay. Type something like, “Wife will pay the following debts and will not hold Husband responsible for them at any time” before listing the debts she has agreed to be responsible for. As a rule of thumb, you should assign the debt to the person who benefited the most from the debt. For example, one spouse should assume the loan for their car. If you didn't have any unpaid debts, this section could simply read: “We have no unpaid joint debts” or “We have no unpaid community obligations.” Acknowledge separate property. You have the option of listing each spouse's separate property. This can help clear up any confusion that might arise whether property is jointly owned. Be as detailed as possible when describing property. For example, don't simply identify a vehicle as “car.” Instead, write “2015 Ford Focus” and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). State who will remain in the home. One of you may stay in the home with your children. You should spell out the conditions of the person staying in the home. State its location and identify who will pay the expenses associated with maintaining the home. For example, you could write, “Wife will live in the home, located at 1234 South Street, Any City, until the earliest of the following: the youngest child turns 18, graduates high school, or is emancipated. While living in the house, Wife agrees to pay all expenses, which includes mortgage payments, insurance, utility bills, maintenance, and taxes.” Identify what will happen to the home in the future. At some point, your last child will become emancipated, and you should identify what will happen to the home at that point. For example, you can agree to sell the home and divide the equity. State how you want to divide the equity, e.g., 50/50. You might want to give one spouse the opportunity to purchase the other spouse's portion of the equity. Waive spousal maintenance (“alimony”). If each side is waiving maintenance, then you can state so in the property settlement agreement. However, if one spouse agrees to pay maintenance, it might be a better idea to put that information in its own document. You can waive maintenance by stating: “Husband and Wife each waive any claim to spousal maintenance now and for all time.” Include some boilerplate provisions. These provisions are meant to protect you in case a dispute breaks out over the property settlement agreement. Hopefully, everything will go smoothly, but you should protect yourself just the same. Add a statement that each spouse has been advised by independent attorneys of your own choosing. State that the agreement is the final agreement related to the matters included in the document. Agree that the winning party in a lawsuit is entitled to reasonable costs and attorney's fees. This provision can help you avoid frivolous lawsuits. Show the draft to a lawyer. Before signing, each side should have their own lawyer look it over. Don't use the same attorney. Instead, each spouse should have independent counsel. Meet to discuss any changes each side's lawyer has suggested. Insert signature blocks. There should be a line for each spouse to sign. Depending on your state, you may also need two witnesses, who should have signature lines as well. Add a notary block, if necessary. You might need to sign your property settlement agreement in front of a notary public. Check with your lawyer. If so, you should find an appropriate notary block online and insert it after the signature blocks. Remember not to sign your agreement until you appear in front of the notary. You can find notaries at your courthouse, town office, or at most large banks. Bring acceptable forms of personal identification, such as a valid passport or state-issued ID. Submit your settlement agreement to the court. A judge will need to approve the division of property and debts. You should submit the signed marital settlement agreement to the court for the judge's signature. You may have to attend a hearing where the judge will ask some basic questions to determine that each side negotiated the agreement fairly. You may have to attach your settlement agreement to a petition or other document. Ask your lawyer what you need to file. Each spouse should keep a copy of the property settlement agreement for their records.

Decide what you want. Identify your marital assets. Calculate marital debts. Talk with your spouse. Attend mediation if necessary. Find a sample for your state. Format your document. Provide important details about the marriage. State that you have made a full disclosure of assets. List which property person A transfers to person B. Identify the property spouse B transfers to spouse A. State which debts spouse A will pay. List the debts the other spouse will pay. Acknowledge separate property. State who will remain in the home. Identify what will happen to the home in the future. Waive spousal maintenance (“alimony”). Include some boilerplate provisions. Show the draft to a lawyer. Insert signature blocks. Add a notary block, if necessary. Submit your settlement agreement to the court.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Dog-Relax-Completely

How to Make Your Dog Relax Completely

To help your dog relax, make sure it has a peaceful, quite place to feel safe and let its guard down, like a spare room with a comfortable dog bed. Your dog may pick up on your stress if you are in a rush often, so make time to sit and relax together each day, even if it's just sitting on the couch and watching TV together! Additionally, give your dog training sessions and puzzle feeders to keep it mentally engaged throughout the day. Also, give your dog ample exercise so it's be more tired at the end of the day and is able to get a good night's sleep.

Provide a stable, calm environment for the dog. Making your dog relaxed will only happen if all of its basic needs are met and the dog feels safe enough to let down its guard. If your house in chaotic with a cacophony of noise from a too-loud stereo, screaming children, or indeed arguing adults, the dog will pick up on the vibe and find it difficult to relax. Make the home a peaceful place, without raised voices. Also, make sure the dog has a place to withdraw from the activity of the home, such as its crate. It needs a safe place to go if it all gets to be too much. Not having a hiding place or den is very stressful for a dog, as its natural instincts are to hide if it feels threatened. Be sure to give your dog ample exercise. For example, breeds such as the Jack Russell or the Border collie that have a heritage as working dogs, need plenty of exercise. If they are crated for many hours at a time, or left home alone all day, then they are likely to be hyper by the time you come home. Expect to take the dog for long walks to burn off energy, before the dog's mind turns to relaxation. After all, if the dog had nothing to do all day but sleep, rest is the last thing on its mind. Give the dog plenty of mental stimulation. Again, a tired mind is one that is ready to relax and a bored mind is more easily distracted. Stimulate your dog's mind by holding regular impromptu training sessions, of about 5 - 10 minutes duration, 2 - 4 times a day. If the dog can concentrate for longer, then great, do that. Also, give the dog puzzle feeders, or put its dry kibble inside a closed cardboard box, so it has to work out ways to get the food and will be stimulated at the same time. Make sure your dog has an appropriate diet. Feed a good quality food (meat listed first on the label) that is right for your dog's life stage. If your dog is over energetic, check with your vet and consider switching to a lower protein food. You may want to consider trying a hypoallergenic diet in case the dog's hyperactivity is due to a food intolerance. Make sure your dog is comfortable. A dog in pain, such as from arthritis, finds it more difficult to relax and may become snappy. If your dog's character changes, such as it goes from being placid to aggressive, schedule a vet checkup in case there is a medical problem that needs addressing. Figure out your dog's likes and dislikes. Your dog may not be able to relax because you are doing things that it dislikes. For example, many dogs dislike having their head petted. This is because the hand comes over the head and eyes, which is a threatening gesture in dog language. If your pet shrinks away or its body stiffens when you go to pet its forehead, then consider that it may not like it. Instead, form your hand into a fist and hold it just below the dog's nose level. Let it approach and sniff the hand. If the dog wags its tail, raises its head, pricks its ears forward, or moves closer, these are all good signs you have his permission to pet it. Set aside plenty of time. Your dog may sense if you are in a rush to try and calm it down. Instead, work on calming the dog down when you have time to spend with it. A great time to make your dog relax is when you are watching TV in the evening. You can gently pet the dog while watching a favorite program. Remember that dogs have sensitive hearing, so don't have the volume turned up high. Make sure the dog has a comfortable place to lie. Wherever it is, the dog should have open access to this space but should not be forced onto into it. This might be a blanket on the floor or on the sofa beside you. Decide if you have a 'no pets on the furniture' rule or not. Be aware if you invite the dog up onto the coach it will get the message it's OK to jump up, so only choose that option if you don't mind the dog on the furniture. Pet your dog. Stroke gently, gliding your hand over its coat, following the direction of the lie of the coat. Do not brush against the lie of the hair or pet roughly, as this is unpleasant and equivalent to having your hair pulled or someone smack your face. Make the movements long and flowing. The dog will appreciate if you use both hands, one following in the trail of the other. Be aware that some areas are more ticklish than others, and dogs feel vulnerable when certain areas, such as the belly, are touched. Work with the area the dog presents to you. Thus if it lies on its side, stroke its flank, rather than pushing the dog onto its back. The dog may interpret this as a sign of hostility, since you are forcing it into a submissive posture. However, if the dog voluntarily shows you its belly, then stroke it. Get a rhythm going so that the dog can fully relax. If all is going well, try a gentle massage. Use deeper pressure using the palms of your hands and rock them backwards and forwards over the dog's neck, shoulders, and spine. If the dog shows any sign of discomfort, such as growing tense, looking up repeatedly, flicking its head or a leg away, or getting up, then stop. Be aware that older animals may have sore joints, especially elbows, so never apply pressure here unless shown how to do so by your vet or vet physiotherapist. Don't end a relaxation session abruptly. It may frighten or shock the dog. Instead, let the pup doze peacefully in the full knowledge of a job well done. Use pheromones to relax your dog. For maximum relaxation, consider plugging in an pheromone diffuser. This gives off soothing dog pheromones (chemical messengers) that give the dog an olfactory message that it is safe and secure, and that it can relax. Try alternative relaxation techniques. Another popular relaxation technique if T-Touch or Tellington Touch. This is a massage therapy designed especially for pets. It can be learned at home and involves making repetitive circular movements with the fingertips or palms, over the dog's body. For starters try making small circular movements over the dog' ear flap and cheeks, and as you build confidence and your dog starts to relax, then experiment with other areas such as his shoulders or back.

Provide a stable, calm environment for the dog. Be sure to give your dog ample exercise. Give the dog plenty of mental stimulation. Make sure your dog has an appropriate diet. Make sure your dog is comfortable. Figure out your dog's likes and dislikes. Set aside plenty of time. Make sure the dog has a comfortable place to lie. Pet your dog. Get a rhythm going so that the dog can fully relax. Use pheromones to relax your dog. Try alternative relaxation techniques.

https://www.wikihow.com/Preserve-Chilies

How to Preserve Chilies

To preserve chilies by drying them, first wash them under cool running water and pat them dry with a paper towel. For very hot peppers, you may want to wear gloves while you're handling them. Place the chilies on a wire rack in a sunny, well-ventilated spot. Let the chilies dry for 3 days, then place them in an airtight container until you're ready to use them.

Wash and dry your chilies. Rinse them under cool running water, taking care to wash away dirt and other debris. Pick out bruised or damaged chilies, since these won't keep for long periods of time. Pat the chilies dry with a paper towel before proceeding. You might want to wear gloves to protect your hands as you handle the chilies. Hot chili peppers contain capsaicin, a chemical that burns when it gets on your skin. Take special care not to touch your eyes or nose after handles hot chilies. Lay them out on a wire rack. You can use a cooling rack or another rack that has vents to allow air circulation from below. If possible, avoid using a solid cooking sheet or tray, since the lack of air flow will make it more difficult for the peppers to dry evenly. Put the tray in a sunny, well-ventilated room. The kitchen windowsill is a great spot. Let them dry for three or more days, then store them in an airtight container. Try stringing and hanging the chilies. This is an easy and decorative way to dry them. Once the chilies are dry, you can keep them hanging up or store them for later use. Here's how to do it: Thread a needle with a long piece of strong thread or fishing line. Pierce the chilies just under their caps to thread the needle through them. Do this until all of the chilies have been threaded. Hang them in a well ventilated and sunny place in your home. In three days to a week, they'll be dry and ready to use. Oven dry the chilies. This is a good technique if you can't wait days, and don't want to wait for the chilies to dry out naturally. Instead of keeping the chilies whole, slicing them helps them dry evenly and quickly. Follow these simple steps: Slice the cleaned chilies in half lengthwise. Lay them seed-side up on a baking sheet. Bake at 125 degrees F (or your lowest setting) for several hours. This is still a lengthy process but quicker than air drying. You could also use a food dehydrator for quick results. Wash and slice the chilies. It's not completely necessary You may quarter them or slice them lengthwise. If you prefer to preserve the chilies whole, use a knife to make a small slit in the side of each chile, which helps to preserve the shape. Depending on how hot you want your pickled chiles to be, you can remove the seeds or keep them. Pack the chilies in a sterilized jar. Choose a clean canning jar and fill it to within an inch of the rim with chiles. Make sure the jar has a tight-fitting lid. Plastic is preferable, since it won't rust in the refrigerator. If you want to flavor the chilies, mix in three tablespoons of salt and 15 peppercorns before packing the chilies. This will lend the chilies a flavor similar to that of pickled jalapeño  served in restaurants. Other spices, such as bay leaves or fresh herbs, can also be added to the mixture to flavor the peppers. Heat white vinegar to a low boil. Use about two cups of vinegar, or enough to pour into the jar and cover the peppers completely. When the vinegar is hot, Pour the hot vinegar over the peppers. Fill the jar to within about half an inch of the top. If you want the peppers to have a sweet flavor, dissolve six teaspoons of sugar into the vinegar. Let the contents of the jar cool for a few minutes. Store in the refrigerator. The longer you let the mixture sit, the stronger the pickled taste will get. Enjoy the pickled peppers as a side dish or on sandwiches. The spicy vinegar makes an excellent salad dressing. Wash the chilies. Discard any damaged chilies, since they won't keep well in the freezer. Freeze small peppers whole. If you have small peppers that you'd like to freeze whole, you can simply put them in a freezer bag. Use a straw to suck out the excess air, then seal and label the bag before placing it in the freezer. Pack the bag as tightly as possible, so there's little extra air in the bag. Air will make the peppers spoil faster. Freeze for several months. When you want to use the peppers, simply leave them out to thaw or blanch them in boiling water for a few seconds. Freeze large peppers in strips. Bigger peppers can be sliced into strips or chunks you can easily use in a recipe later on. Slice them lengthwise or into chunks and remove the seeds. Lay the pieces on a baking sheet and freeze them for an hour. This is called flash freezing. Put the pieces in a storage bag and remove the extra air. Store in the freezer for up to several months. Wash and slice the chilies. To prepare chilies for preservation in oil, most people slice them into strips. However, smaller chilies may be left whole. Leave in as many seeds as you want depending on the heat level you desire. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Broil the pepper pieces. Cooking the chilies before preserving them will help to bring out the best in their flavor. You can roast them over a grill or a gas burner. Preheat your oven's broil, or prepare your grill. Roast the slices until they're charred. Under the broiler, this should take just a few minutes. Turn them once during the process so they cook evenly on all sides. Pack the peppers in olive oil. Put the peppers in a clean jar or bottle. You may want to use a decorative olive oil container. Pour olive oil over the peppers until they're entirely covered. Store the jar in a cool, dark place.

Wash and dry your chilies. Lay them out on a wire rack. Try stringing and hanging the chilies. Oven dry the chilies. Wash and slice the chilies. Pack the chilies in a sterilized jar. Heat white vinegar to a low boil. Store in the refrigerator. Wash the chilies. Freeze small peppers whole. Freeze large peppers in strips. Wash and slice the chilies. Broil the pepper pieces. Pack the peppers in olive oil.

https://www.wikihow.com/Hold-Your-Bladder-As-a-Woman

How to Hold Your Bladder As a Woman

Holding your bladder isn't fun, but with a few tricks, you can help reduce the pressure and distract yourself. Cross your legs and keep pressure on your pelvis. While you do this, keep the rest of your body relaxed to help relieve your discomfort. Try counting to 10 or repeating the alphabet in your head. You can also concentrate on something else like a podcast, the radio, or something on your phone. Hopefully, this will take your mind off peeing. Take deep breaths to help you stay calm. If you're wearing tight jeans, loosen them to relieve the pressure on your bladder. If you need to walk somewhere, move slowly to avoid shaking your bladder.

Distract yourself mentally. As your bladder fills, nerve endings in the pelvis send signals to your brain that it is time to relieve yourself. Because the urge to urinate originates from these nerve signals, try to distract yourself by thinking of something else. Try to think complex thoughts, like brainstorming ideas for a new project at work or coming up with a solution to a scheduling issue at home. If you think of simple thoughts -- like counting to 10 or going over the alphabet -- this will not fully distract you from your body's signals to urinate. If you can wear headphones and have access to your phone or computer, try listening to the news or a podcast with a complex story. Taking in outside information will help you ignore the urge to pee. Relax your muscles. You will naturally feel the urge to cross your legs and keep pressure on your pelvis. While you can do this, you should keep the rest of your body relaxed as this will distract you from the discomfort of a full bladder. Roll your shoulders backwards and forwards. Roll your head from side to side. This will relieve pressure on your spine and neck that you might feel if you are keeping a tense posture. If you are sitting, cross your legs so you exert slight pressure on your bladder. Square your shoulders and extend your spine. This will help you sit up straight. Do not slouch as this will put extra, unnecessary weight onto your bladder. If you are standing, position yourself with your feet parallel and your toes touching. Distribute your weight evenly across each leg and stand tall. You might feel the urge to cross your legs while standing, but try to avoid doing this. Crossing your legs will feel awkward because it will put an uneven amount of weight on one leg. Breathe deeply. If you cannot access a bathroom when you need to urinate, this will cause a significant amount of mental and physical stress. Breathe deeply from your diaphragm, pushing out the muscles in your lower belly as you inhale and drawing them back in as your exhale. This deep, measured breathing will relieve pressure on your pelvis. It will also relax other muscles in your body that may feel very tense or constricted. Avoid constrictive clothing. If you are wearing very tight jeans or shorts, try to loosen them or change into a different pair of pants. They may be putting undue pressure on your bladder. Obviously, if you are in public, do not unzip or unbuckle your pants. Avoid making any disruptive movements, such as bouncing, shaking, or jumping. If you have to walk, move very slowly. Practice Kegel exercises. One of the key steps in avoiding uncomfortable pain from holding a full bladder is to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles (which are located at the base of the bladder). By completing these exercises, you can strengthen your bladder and experience less frequent urges to urinate. To find where your pelvic floor muscles are located, go to the bathroom and urinate. While you are peeing, try to stop urinating mid-stream. If you can stop, then you have found the correct muscles. To complete Kegel exercises, tighten your pelvic floor muscles while you are sitting or lying down. Hold the contraction for five seconds and then release for five counts. Repeat this exercise four to five times. Continue to practice this exercise until you can tighten these muscles for ten seconds at a time. You should do three sets of 4-5 contractions each day. Regulate your hydration. If you are someone who drinks large quantities of liquid in short spurts (such as after exercising or when you have a break during the day), then stagger your liquid intake so you are drinking smaller amounts of liquid throughout the day. This will relieve pressure on your bladder. Keep a bottle of non-carbonated water by your desk and take a sip every 5-10 minutes. You should generally aim for 9 cups of water (or 2.2 liters) every day. Set a regular bathroom schedule. Your bladder will become a stronger organ if you train yourself to urinate on a regular schedule. If you schedule regular bathroom trips every 2-4 hours, then you will experience less frequent urges to urinate at unexpected times. Watch your weight. Studies have shown that excess weight and obesity can create an overactive bladder. If you are experiencing frequent urges to pee and are also overweight, try shedding some pounds to see if this will help relieve your symptoms. You should always consult with your doctor to find the best way to lose weight. Generally, you will need a combination of moderate cardio exercise (running, walking, swimming, hiking), 3-4 times a week and a healthy diet of lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, fat and processed carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, white pasta, popcorn, chips, cookies, brownies, cake, ice cream, etc. Sugary drinks like soda and cocktails should also be avoided or only consumed in very small quantities. Consume the right foods. Certain foods have been shown to irritate the bladder and cause frequent urges to urinate. If you have a persistent need to urinate, you should avoid consuming the following: Acidic fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons) Spicy foods Chocolate Corn syrup Tomatoes and tomato-based sauces Avoid irritating beverages. Similarly, certain beverages can also have negative effects on the bladder. Consuming the following drinks may diminish your bladder's ability to hold urine: Sugary, carbonated drinks like soda Drinks with artificial sweeteners (like diet sodas) Coffee and tea Excessive consumption of alcohol (more than 5 drinks a week) Fruit and vegetable juices from oranges, grapefruit, and tomatoes If you have a problem with urinary leakage or a persistent urge to pee, then try eliminating these foods and drinks for a week and see if the problem has improved. You can slowly reintroduce one or two items from these lists to see which one is the biggest irritant to your bladder. Talk to your doctor. If you are experiencing longterm issues with urination, such as pain in the bladder or a persistent, constant urge to pee, then speak to your doctor about the best way to treat your symptoms. If you are currently taking medicine for another condition such as high blood pressure or depression, this could be negatively impacting your bladder. Talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage or switching to a medicine with fewer side effects. You might be reluctant to talk to your doctor about your bladder issues because you think they are embarrassing. But you shouldn't hesitate to seek treatment; bladder pain could be the sign of something much larger, such as cancer or a problem in another organ such as your kidneys, so go ahead and talk to your doctor. Medicines such as Mirabegron and botox injections to the bladder are also sometimes used to treat incontinence.

Distract yourself mentally. Relax your muscles. Breathe deeply. Avoid constrictive clothing. Avoid making any disruptive movements, such as bouncing, shaking, or jumping. Practice Kegel exercises. Regulate your hydration. Set a regular bathroom schedule. Watch your weight. Consume the right foods. Avoid irritating beverages. Talk to your doctor.

https://www.wikihow.pet/Set-Up-a-Chinchilla%27s-Cage

How to Set Up a Chinchilla's Cage

To set up a chinchilla cage, position the enclosure somewhere away from heat, humidity, and drafts. It's also important to put the cage in a quiet location without a lot of electronic devices nearby, since vibrations from electronics can disturb chinchillas. Place a small dust box in the cage for the chinchilla to bathe in daily, and add a nest box and other structures, like PVC piping, to create hiding places. Don't forget to include wooden toys for the chinchilla to chew on!

Get a wire cage that is at least 4 × 4 × 3 ft (1.22 × 1.22 × 0.91 m). A wire cage allows for plenty of air circulation so your chinchilla will stay cool. A multi-level cage, such as those designed for ferrets, will give your chinchilla plenty of room to jump and climb. Aquariums or single level cages, such as those you might get for other rodents, are not suitable for chinchillas. You can find suitable chinchilla cages online or at any pet store that sells chinchilla or ferret supplies. The wire grids on the side of the cage should be no wider than 1 by 2 inches (2.5 cm × 5.1 cm) to prevent your chinchilla from escaping. Make sure that if your chinchilla happens to fall off any of the levels in the cage, it won't drop more than 60 centimetres (24 in). Use plexiglass to create a solid floor area in the cage. A wire floor allows droppings to fall to a tray underneath, which can help you keep the cage clean more easily, but it does cause damage to the chinchilla's feet. However, your chinchilla needs areas of solid flooring where it can rest its paws from the wires. Otherwise, its feet will become irritated. You can find plexiglass sheets at most home and garden stores and at some pet stores or farm supply stores. Where wire floor is exposed, the grids should be no wider than.5 in × .5 in (1.3 cm × 1.3 cm) to keep your chinchilla's feet from slipping through. However, chinchillas can still get abrasions on their feet even if they don't fit through the mesh. Spread pelleted or shredded paper along the floor. Use bedding to allow your chinchilla a place to burrow. This also makes their living area more comfortable for them. Paper works best, but you can also use kiln-dried pine. Do not use cedar chips – this wood is unsafe for chinchillas. Buy bedding at a pet store or at a farm supply store. Don't use old newspaper, as the inks may be toxic for your chinchilla. Attach a stoppered water bottle to the side of the cage. Look for a stoppered water bottle suitable for rodents that can be firmly attached to the wires of the cage. You can find these online or at any pet store or farm supply store. While you can provide a bowl of water in the bottom of the cage, this isn't ideal for chinchillas. The water can easily become soiled in a bowl. Additionally, your chinchilla may tip it over or fall into it, and chinchillas are not supposed to get wet. Provide a bowl for hay and treats. Feed your chinchilla high-quality hay (such as Timothy hay) every day. Buy your hay at a pet store or farm supply store. You can supplement the hay with commercial chinchilla pellets and fresh vegetables. If you buy vegetables for your chinchilla at a supermarket, make sure they are fresh, organic, and have not been treated with any pesticides. Wash them thoroughly before giving them to your chinchilla. Secure an exercise wheel to the floor of the cage. A solid running wheel with a diameter of at least 15 inches (38 cm) is most suitable for a chinchilla. Anything smaller will be hard on your chinchilla's spine. If you have more than one chinchilla, you likely want to have more than one wheel. Avoid plastic wheels, as your chinchilla will likely chew on it. Wheels also shouldn't have any spokes or wires that your chinchilla's feet can get stuck in. Attach the wheel securely to solid flooring, so that it won't move while your chin is using it. Keep your chinchilla's enclosure away from heat, humidity, and drafts. Chinchillas are susceptible to heat stroke if exposed to temperatures above 80 °F (27 °C). Ideally, the area in and around your chin's enclosure should be between 50 and 75 °F (10 and 24 °C). Maintain humidity levels of 40 percent or less. Keep your chin's enclosure away from noisy areas or areas with a lot of electronic devices. Vibrations from electronics can disturb chinchillas. Since they sleep during the day, place their enclosure in an area of your home that doesn't get a lot of traffic during the day. Provide a daily dust bath for your chin. Create a dust box that is at least 6 × 6 × 9 in (15 × 15 × 23 cm) with at least 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) of dust in the bottom. You can buy the dust to use in exotic pet stores or online. Only use dust that is specifically formulated for chinchilla dust baths. Give your chin the dust box and let it bathe for 10 to 15 minutes. Then remove it. The dust box should not be a permanent part of your chin's enclosure. Check the dust box every day to remove any droppings so that it's clean for the next bath. Set up a nest box and hiding areas. You can buy nest boxes and other types of hiding spaces in pet stores – or you can save a little money by making your own. PVC piping, which you can find in any home and garden or farm supply store, makes excellent hiding places for chinchillas, and is also easy to clean. If you decide to go with PVC pipes, choose 4 inches (10 cm) pipe in a Y- or T-shape. Include safe wooden toys for your chin to chew on. Like all rodents, a chinchilla's teeth continue to grow throughout its life. It needs wooden toys to chew on. The toys should be large enough that your chinchilla can't swallow them, and made of untreated wood that is not toxic for chinchillas. Generally, toys made from the wood of apple, hazelnut, ash, manzanite, birch, maple, elm, or pear trees are safe for chinchillas. Only kiln-dried pine is safe for chinchillas. Fresh pine has oils that are dangerous for chinchillas. Wooden items made from cedar, cherry, citrus wood, oleander, plum, or redwood are not safe for chinchillas. Spot-clean the bedding daily and change it once a week. Each day, check the condition of the bedding in your chinchilla's enclosure. Remove any droppings and wet or soiled bedding. Stir the bedding around and add more as necessary. While it's not easy to litter-box train a chinchilla, you can try putting a litter box in a corner of the enclosure lined with bedding and see if your chin takes to it. That can make daily cleaning a lot easier. Disinfect your chin's cage at least once a week. Remove everything from your chinchilla's cage and clean and disinfect it thoroughly. After cleaning, rinse to remove all residues of any soap or other cleaning products. Make sure the cage is completely dry before you start placing bedding or other items inside. Disinfection prevents bacteria from growing and spreading in your chinchilla's cage, which can lead to infections and other health issues. If you have more than one chinchilla, you may find that you need to clean the cage twice a week. Clean your chin's water bottle and food bowl every day. Cleaning and disinfecting food bowls and water bottles every day reduces the risk of bacterial contamination. Wash them with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. If you have more than one chinchilla, you may want to wash the water bottle and food bowl every day. Wash toys and cage items in warm, soapy water as needed. The various toys you provide for your chinchilla, as well as its exercise wheel and other cage items, may become soiled. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, then make sure all items are completely dry before you place them back in your chin's cage. Inspect chew toys and other items to make sure they aren't broken, and there are no parts small enough for your chinchilla to swallow. When you wash any wooden toys, leave them out to completely dry before you replace them in your chin's enclosure. An easy way to do this is to set them on a sunny window sill to dry. Change the dust in the dust box every 2 to 3 weeks. While your chin's dust box doesn't need to be cleaned as often as its cage and other items, the dust can become soiled. Clean the dust box itself with warm, soapy water. Then rinse it and dry it completely before you add new dust. Removing the dust box from your chinchilla's enclosure as soon as it's finished its bath can help prevent contamination from food or droppings. Always store the dust box in a cool, dry location when your chin isn't using it, and keep it covered to prevent outside contamination.

Get a wire cage that is at least 4 × 4 × 3 ft (1.22 × 1.22 × 0.91 m). Use plexiglass to create a solid floor area in the cage. Spread pelleted or shredded paper along the floor. Attach a stoppered water bottle to the side of the cage. Provide a bowl for hay and treats. Secure an exercise wheel to the floor of the cage. Keep your chinchilla's enclosure away from heat, humidity, and drafts. Provide a daily dust bath for your chin. Set up a nest box and hiding areas. Include safe wooden toys for your chin to chew on. Spot-clean the bedding daily and change it once a week. Disinfect your chin's cage at least once a week. Clean your chin's water bottle and food bowl every day. Wash toys and cage items in warm, soapy water as needed. Change the dust in the dust box every 2 to 3 weeks.

https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Hacker

How to Become a Hacker

To become a hacker, install a UNIX-like operating system on your computer such as Linux, since learning UNIX is essential for hacking. You should also learn how to write HTML code, which is used to create websites. Additionally, learn programming languages, like Python or Java, which you'll need to understand for hacking projects. If you want to network with hackers, try attending science fiction conventions, because lots of hackers attend these events. In order to create the mental toughness and focus you'll need for big projects, take a martial art that focuses on mental concentration, like Tai Chi. To adopt a hacker's mindset, learn to challenge authoritarian figures and censorship by sharing information with other hackers so you can fight for equality and common knowledge. For example, you could create open source software, which are programs where the code used to create them is visible to everyone.

Run a UNIX-like OS, such as Linux. UNIX and UNIX-like operating systems are the operating systems of the Internet. While you can learn to use the Internet without knowing UNIX, you can't be an Internet hacker without understanding UNIX. For this reason, the hacker culture today is pretty strongly UNIX-centered. There are many types of UNIX-like operating systems, the most popular being Linux, which you can run alongside Microsoft Windows on the same machine. Download Linux online or find a local Linux user group to help you with installation. A good way to dip your toes in the water is to boot up a device called a live CD or USB, a distribution that runs entirely off a CD or USB without modifying your hard disk. A way to get a look at the possibilities without having to do anything drastic. There are other UNIX-like operating systems besides Linux, such as the *BSD systems. The most popular *BSD systems are FreeBSD, NetBSD, OpenBSD and DragonFly BSD. All are open source just like Linux. However, it's important to remember that they are BSD and not Linux. MacOS on Darwin, a UNIX operating system that's on FreeBSD. Darwin is fully free and open source and is available from http://opensource.apple.com. Because the core of the system is UNIX, and macOS is very popular, many people have ported over Linux applications to macOS. You can get those programs with a package manager like homebrew, fink or MacPorts. Alternatively, you can just run Linux on a Mac alongside macOS. If you want to get super niche, you can even run an operating system like Open Indiana, which is based on the open source release of the Solaris operating system before it was acquired by Oracle and made closed source. OpenIndiana and Solaris made on UNIX System V, and, as such, are not compatible with Linux applications. That said, there are many ports of Linux applications. You're probably better off just using macOS, BSD or Linux because they are much more popular and have many more programs available for them. Write HTML. If you don't know how to program, learning basic HyperText Mark-Up Language (HTML) and gradually building proficiency is essential. What you see when you look at a website of pictures, images, and design components is all coded using HTML. For a project, set out to learn how to make a basic home page and work your way up from there. In your browser, open the page source information to examine the HTML to see an example. Go to Web Developer > Page Source in Firefox and spend time looking at the code. You can write HTML in a basic word processing program like Notepad or Simple text and save your files as "yourCoolFileName.HTML " so you can upload them to a browser and see your work translated. Learn the language of programming. Before you start writing poems, you have to learn basic grammar. Before you break the rules, you have to learn the rules. But if your ultimate goal is to become a hacker, you're going to need more than basic English to write your masterpiece. Python is a good "language" to start off with because it's cleanly designed, well documented, and relatively kind to beginners. Despite being a good first language, it is not just a toy; it is compelling, flexible, and well-suited for large projects. If you get into serious programming, you will have to learn Java is an alternative, but its value as a first programming language has been currently questioned in its particular state. Unlike Java, Javascript is very similar to Python as they are both a C-based language and extremely new user-friendly. Javascript is "the programming language of the web," so If you'd like to continue your learning in web development/hacking, Javascript is better to learn than Python. An alternative to JavaScript would be PHP C , the core language of Unix. C++ is very closely related to C; if you know one, learning the other will not be difficult. C is very efficient with your machine's resources but will soak up huge amounts of your time on debugging and is often avoided for that reason, unless the efficiency of your computer is especially important. It is probably a good idea to use a good starting platform such as Backtrack 5 R3, Kali or Ubuntu 12.04LTS. Think creatively. Now that you've got the basic skills in place, you can start thinking artistically. Hackers are like artists, philosophers, and engineers all rolled up into one. They believe in freedom and mutual responsibility. The world is full of fascinating problems waiting to be solved. Hackers take a special delight in solving problems, sharpening their skills, and exercising their intelligence. Hackers have a diversity of interests culturally and intellectually, outside of hacking. Work as intensely as you play, and play as intensely as you work. For true hackers, the boundaries between "play," "work," "science," and "art" all tend to disappear or to merge into a high-level creative playfulness. Read science fiction. Go to science fiction conventions, which is a great way to meet hackers and proto-hackers. Consider training in a martial art. The kind of mental discipline required for martial arts seems to be similar in important ways to what hackers do. The most hacker-ly martial arts are those which emphasize mental discipline, relaxed awareness, and control, rather than raw strength, athleticism, or physical toughness. Tai Chi is a good martial art for hackers. Learn to love solving problems. No problem should ever have to be solved twice. Think of it as a community in which the time of everyone is hackers is precious. Hackers believe sharing information is a moral responsibility. When you solve problems, make the information public to help everyone solve the same issue. You don't have to believe that you're obligated to give all your creative product away, though the hackers that do are the ones that get the most respect from other hackers. It's consistent with hacker values to sell enough of it to keep you in food and rent and computers. Read older pieces, such as the "Jargon File" or "Hacker Manifesto" by The Mentor. They may be out of date regarding technical issues, but the attitude and spirit are just as timely. Learn to recognize and fight authority. The enemy of the hacker is boredom, drudgery, and authoritarian figures who use censorship and secrecy to strangle the freedom of information. Monotonous work keeps the hacker from hacking. Embracing hacking as a way of life is to reject so-called "normal" concepts of work and property, choosing instead to fight for equality and common knowledge. Be competent. So, anyone who spends time on Reddit can write up a ridiculous cyberpunk username and pose as a hacker. But the Internet is a great equalizer and values competence over ego and posture. Spend time working on your craft and not your image, and you'll more quickly gain respect than modeling yourself on the superficial things we think of "hacking" in popular culture. Write open-source software. Write programs that other hackers think are fun or useful, and give the program sources away to the whole hacker culture to use. Hackerdom's most revered demigods are people who have written large, capable programs that met a widespread need and given them away so that now everyone uses them. Help test and debug open-source software. Any open-source author who's thinking will tell you that good beta-testers (who know how to describe symptoms, localize problems well, can tolerate bugs in a quickie release, and are willing to apply a few simple diagnostic routines) are worth their weight in rubies. Try to find a program under development that you're interested in and be a good beta-tester. There's a natural progression from helping test programs to helping debug them to helping modify them. You'll learn a lot this way, and generate goodwill with people who will help you later on. Publish useful information. Another good thing is to collect and filter useful and interesting information into web pages or documents like Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) lists, and make those available. Maintainers of major technical FAQs get almost as much respect as open-source authors. Help keeps the infrastructure working. Volunteers run the hacker culture (and the engineering development of the Internet, for that matter). There's a lot of necessary but unglamorous work that needs to be done to keep it going — administering mailing lists, moderating newsgroups, maintaining large software archive sites, developing RFCs and other technical standards. People who do this sort of thing well get a lot of respect, because everybody knows these jobs are huge time sinks and not as much fun as playing with code. Doing them shows dedication. Serve the hacker culture itself. It is not something you'll be positioned to do until you've been around for a while and become well-known for one of the four previous items. The hacker culture doesn't have leaders, exactly, but it does have culture heroes and tribal elders and historians and spokespeople. When you've been in the trenches long enough, you may grow into one of these. Hackers distrust blatant ego in their tribal elders, so visibly reaching for this kind of fame is dangerous. Rather than striving for it, you have to position yourself, so it drops in your lap, and then be modest and gracious about your status.

Run a UNIX-like OS, such as Linux. Write HTML. Learn the language of programming. Think creatively. Learn to love solving problems. Learn to recognize and fight authority. Be competent. Write open-source software. Help test and debug open-source software. Publish useful information. Help keeps the infrastructure working. Serve the hacker culture itself.

https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Lacrosse

How to Play Lacrosse

To play lacrosse, try to score more points than your opponents by the end of 4 quarters, which last 15 minutes each. To score points, throw the ball across your opponent's goal line. Whether you're passing, shooting, or catching the ball, make sure you're always using a lacrosse stick and not your hands. If the ball falls on the ground, scoop it up with your stick before the other team and continue playing.

Get your hands on a stick. If you're just learning how to play, go to your local sporting goods store, and you can find a basic stick for around 30 dollars. If you know someone that has an old stick they wouldn't mind letting you borrow his or hers, even better. Understand that the men's and women's games differ significantly, meaning that the male stick is much different than the female stick. There are two main components of a stick: The head. This is the (usually plastic) piece at the top of the stick that the ball is controlled with. The shaft. Traditionally made out of wood, shafts nowadays are made of strong metal alloys and have varying weights and strength. Hold the stick in the proper way. If your dominant hand is your right, put your left hand about 1 or 2 inches from the bottom of the shaft and your right hand closer to the top, about 4 inches from the bottom of the head. Switch the hands around if your dominant hand is your left. Learn how to cradle. Cradling is the lacrosse equivalent of dribbling in basketball. You usually cradle when you run with the ball so that an opponent can't knock the ball out of your stick. Cradling is basically using a curling motion with your wrist to swing the ball back and forth while you run. Cradling is best learned in front of a mirror. Place the ball in the pocket of your head, so that the ball sits in the mesh, holding your dominant hand a few inches below the head. Hold the stick across your body comfortably. Begin with the head facing the mirror so you can see the ball. Now bring the head across your face while curling your dominant wrist in towards your body. When your dominant wrist is curled as far as it can go inward, start bringing your wrist back out and your arm back down to its starting position. If you managed to keep the ball in the pocket while you completed that movement, you successfully cradled. Keep practicing until you get the hang of it. If you need help (don't worry, it's hard) try watching some videos of people playing lacrosse. Learn to pass. Passing is critical in Lacrosse. It's used to move the ball up field, catch your opponent out of position while hitting a teammate for an assist, or just getting yourself out of pressure. In order to pass the ball: Lower your dominant hand down to just above the center of the shaft. Keep your non-dominant hand close to the bottom of the shaft. Bring the shaft of your stick back by twisting your shoulders toward your dominant side. Don't let it hook around your neck. Keeping the head next to your ear, and using a straight motion, flick the wrist of your top hand while pulling your bottom hand towards you. Make sure to follow through with the motion. A proper motion will see the top of the shaft move directly over the bottom of the shaft in a straight line. Note : eventually, you learn how your stick throws and can adjust the way you throw to be more accurate. Note : the best thing you can do to help improve your skills is get to a brick wall and play "wall ball." This is where you stand a few feet from the wall and throw the ball against it. The ball will bounce back and you practice catching it. Learn how to catch. This is all about hand-eye coordination. With your dominant hand up near the bottom of your head,(For righties this means have your right hand on top and left hand on the bottom and for lefties this means have your left hand at the top and right hand at the bottom) watch the ball travel through the air and into your pocket. Make sure you don't cradle as the ball enters your stick. Instead of cradling, simply loosen your grip on your top hand; as the ball enters the stick, let the momentum of the ball push the whole stick back a little bit. Again, wall ball will really help here. Practice your ground balls. Know that games are won and lost on ground balls. While approaching the ball, step to it using the proper foot: if your stick is in your right hand, position your right foot close to the ball, and vice versa. Sink your hips and put the head of your stick parallel to the ground. The butt of your stick should get down low as well. Scoop through and bring the head to your face. Immediately look for the outlet to a teammate. Learn how to shoot. Shooting the bass is necessary in order to score goals. Move your dominant hand down a little lower than you would to pass. Perform the same basic movement as passing, except this time, put more force behind it. There are plenty of different kinds of shots in lacrosse — 3/4, sidearm, underhand — but for now, focus on overhand shots. Try to direct the shots on the corners of the goal. The goalie has a harder time against shots that aren't directed right at him, so aim for top right, top left, bottom right, and bottom left. Also try shooting at the goalies weak side hip. So if the goalie is right handed, shoot at their left hip. Shooting at the goalies weak side hip make it hard for them to stop the ball mainly because it takes a lot speed and quick reflexes for the goalie to extend their arms with the stick across to the opposite side of their body, whether they move their stick upwards or downwards. Try bounce shots. Bounce shots are where you bounce the ball on the ground before it gets to the goal. Bounce shots are hard for a goalie to defend, so use them. Learn how to pass, catch, cradle and shoot with both hands. Nothing impresses a coach more than being ambidextrous! Learning to use both hands requires patience, because it will not happen overnight. Using your off hand in games will seriously improve your play. A good way to learn your off-hand skills is to look at what your dominate hand is doing. Mirror the way you are passing. Go through the same motions. After you do this, spend a week of practice using nothing but your non-dominant hand. During line drills, 6v6, fast break, anything. Only use your off-hand. This will be very frustrating, but keep at it. Learn how to defend. There's no one way to defend, but your object on defense is to recover the ball without the other team scoring. You can do this by checking, keeping your stick up and intercepting passes Boys Checking Poke-checking: hitting the other person's stick legally with your own, causing the ball to come out. Body-checking: hitting the other person legally with your own body, causing the ball to come out. Girls Checking Modified- a quick "tap" (hit and release) on the head of another girl's head of her stick. You can only do this when her head is below her shoulder Full (Varsity)- a "tap" (hit and release) on the head of another girl's head of her stick. You can check anytime when the girl's stick is not in her "bubble" (around her head). Intercepting a pass. Anticipate where a pass is going and catch it mid-air or bat it down. Learn to read the field and know when to move off the ball. As you play in more lacrosse games, it's important to watch more experienced team members move without the ball. Even players who don't have the ball play a very important role in a possession. You must know when to cut, and make space for passing, and shooting, and to draw defenders away from the person with the ball. You also should learn how and when to set picks for your teammates. Understand that the men's and women's game is significantly different. Although the basic concepts are the same, women's lacrosse differs quite a bit from men's lacrosse. This article will focus mainly on the rules of the men's game. Understand the object of the game. The object of lacrosse is to score more points than your opponents at the end of four quarters, which last for 15 minutes each. You score a point by throwing the ball across the goal line of the opponent's goal. Know the positions of lacrosse. 10 lacrosse players take the field for a game: 3 attack-men, 3 midfielders, 3 defenders, and 1 goalie. They each have different functions: Attack-men: usually stay in the opponent's half and are responsible for creating fast breaks, moving the ball around in the opponent's half, and scoring goals. Midfielders: move the length of the field, help with attacking and defending, and are responsible for the faceoff. Defenders: usually stay in their half and keep the opponent's players from attacking. Defenders usually, but not always, have longer sticks than other players. Goalie: defends his team's goal, trying to keep the other team from scoring. Has a bigger-than-normal head on his stick for defending his goal. After each goal, and at the beginning of each quarter, start with a faceoff. A faceoff in lacrosse is similar to a faceoff in hockey, except that the two lacrosse players get down on their hands and knees and position their sticks parallel to each other. They then vie for the ball when the referee blows his whistle. Know the basic play. After the faceoff is won, the team with the ball passes the ball until they are close enough to the opponent's goal to shoot. Meanwhile, the defenders try to keep the attacking team from scoring. A shot that travels past the goalie and into the goal counts as one point. Once a goal is scored, the ball is brought back to midfield, where a faceoff takes place again. Offensive players cannot enter the crease area around the opponent's goal. The crease is a large circle that is clearly marked. If an offensive player steps into the crease illegally, possession is forfeited to the opposite team. There is not a minimum amount of time that a team has to possess the ball for before they score. Scoring can and does happen quickly. There is not a minimum amount of passes that need to take place before a player can shoot. Theoretically, a player could march down the field him or herself without ever passing the ball and still score. Understand the rules associated with timing. There are three rules associated with timing, and they both involve promoting the ball past forward. After the goalie gains possession of the ball, he must pass or move it out of the crease within 4 seconds. Failure to do so results in a turnover to the other team. Once the defense gains control of the ball in their defending half, they have 20 seconds to pass or run the ball over midfield. Once they've moved the ball past midfield, they have 10 seconds to get the ball into the attack area, which is clearly marked as a big box. Understand other unique rules of gameplay. Both involve possession of the ball: If a player takes a shot and the ball travels out of bounds, the team with a player closest to the end line gains possession of the ball. A player's stick counts as an extension of his body in this case. Inside the final two minutes of the game, the team with the lead must play inside their attack area exclusively. Failure to do so is considered delay of game, in which case forfeiture of possession occurs. Understand possession and offsides. When the faceoff is being fought for, a team's attackmen must be being the offensive restraining line and a team's defender must be behind the defensive restraining line. When possession is gained by either team, both attackmen and defence men may move toward midfield, but both teams must have three players above midfield and four defenders behind midfield. Offsides. Defensive offsides occurs when there are fewer than four players for one team behind their midfield line. Offensive offsides occurs when there are fewer than three players for one team above their midfield line. Defenders can move past midfield and attackmen can move behind it so long as another player stays behind or in front of midfield in their stead. This allows for the possibility of a defender carrying the ball up past midfield, say, if a midfielder stays back to act as a "defender." Assess penalties. Penalties usually send players into a designated area called the "penalty box," where they cannot play and must sit for a period of time. There are two kinds of fouls in lacrosse: Personal fouls. These include slashing, tripping, illegal cross checking, and checking from behind. A player is usually given 1 minute penalties, although penalties can be increased to 2 or 3 minutes or even ejection for egregious fouls. Technical fouls. These don't usually result in penalties, but rather a loss of possession. They include offsides, crease violations, pushing from the rear, thumbing, and warding off.

Get your hands on a stick. Hold the stick in the proper way. Learn how to cradle. Learn to pass. Learn how to catch. Practice your ground balls. Learn how to shoot. Learn how to pass, catch, cradle and shoot with both hands. Learn how to defend. Learn to read the field and know when to move off the ball. Understand that the men's and women's game is significantly different. Understand the object of the game. Know the positions of lacrosse. After each goal, and at the beginning of each quarter, start with a faceoff. Know the basic play. Offensive players cannot enter the crease area around the opponent's goal. Understand the rules associated with timing. Understand other unique rules of gameplay. Understand possession and offsides. Assess penalties.

https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-the-Sum-of-Interior-Angles

How to Calculate the Sum of Interior Angles

To calculate the sum of interior angles, start by counting the number of sides in your polygon. Next, plug this number into the formula for the "n" value. Then, solve for "n" by subtracting 2 from the number of sides and multiplying the difference by 180. This will give you, in degrees, the sum of the interior angles in your polygon!

Set up the formula for finding the sum of the interior angles. The formula is s u m = ( n − 2 ) × 180 {\displaystyle sum=(n-2)\times 180} , where s u m {\displaystyle sum} is the sum of the interior angles of the polygon, and n {\displaystyle n} equals the number of sides in the polygon. The value 180 comes from how many degrees are in a triangle. The other part of the formula, n − 2 {\displaystyle n-2} is a way to determine how many triangles the polygon can be divided into. So, essentially the formula is calculating the degrees inside the triangles that make up the polygon. This method will work whether you are working with a regular or irregular polygon. Regular and irregular polygons with the same number of sides will always have the same sum of interior angles, the difference only being that in a regular polygon, all interior angles have the same measurement. In an irregular polygon, some of the angles will be smaller, some of the angles will be larger, but they will still add up to the same number of degrees that are in the regular shape. Count the number of sides in your polygon. Remember that a polygon must have at least three straight sides. For example, if you want to know the sum of the interior angles of a hexagon, you would count 6 sides. Plug the value of n{\displaystyle n} into the formula. Remember, n {\displaystyle n} is the number of sides in your polygon. For example, if you are working with a hexagon, n = 6 {\displaystyle n=6} , since a hexagon has 6 sides. So, your formula should look like this: s u m = ( 6 − 2 ) × 180 {\displaystyle sum=(6-2)\times 180} Solve for n{\displaystyle n}. To do this, subtract 2 from the number of sides, and multiply the difference by 180. This will give you, in degrees, the sum of the interior angles in your polygon. For example, to find out the sum of the interior angles of a hexagon, you would calculate: s u m = ( 6 − 2 ) × 180 {\displaystyle sum=(6-2)\times 180} s u m = ( 4 ) × 180 {\displaystyle sum=(4)\times 180} s u m = ( 4 ) × 180 = 720 {\displaystyle sum=(4)\times 180=720} So, the sum of the interior angles of a hexagon is 720 degrees. Draw the polygon whose angles you need to sum. The polygon can have any number of sides and can be regular or irregular. For example, you might want to find the sum of the interior angles of a hexagon, so you would draw a six-sided shape. Choose one vertex. Label this vertex A. A vertex is a point where two sides of a polygon meet. Draw a straight line from Point A to each other vertex in the polygon. The lines should not cross. You should create a number of triangles. You do not have to draw lines to the adjacent vertices, since they are already connected by a side. For example, for a hexagon you should draw three lines, dividing the shape into 4 triangles. Multiply the number of triangles you created by 180. Since there are 180 degrees in a triangle, by multiplying the number of triangles in your polygon by 180, you can find the sum of the interior angles of your polygon. For example, since you divided your hexagon into 4 triangles, you would calculate 4 × 180 = 720 {\displaystyle 4\times 180=720} to find a total of 720 degrees in the interior of your polygon.

Set up the formula for finding the sum of the interior angles. Count the number of sides in your polygon. Plug the value of n{\displaystyle n} into the formula. Solve for n{\displaystyle n}. Draw the polygon whose angles you need to sum. Choose one vertex. Draw a straight line from Point A to each other vertex in the polygon. Multiply the number of triangles you created by 180.

https://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Manicure-at-Home

How to Do a Manicure at Home

To do a manicure at home, start by removing any old nail polish that you're wearing with non-acetone nail polish remover. Next, trim your nails to the length you want, file them into your preferred shape, and buff them to create a smooth surface. Then, soak your nails in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes to soften your cuticles and use an orange stick to gently push them back. Finally, apply a base coat, follow it with the nail polish of your choice, and finish your manicure with a clear top coat.

Gather your supplies. You might have to spend a little money up front to get everything you need for a gorgeous at-home manicure. Investing in tools and products that will last months or years will definitely save you money in the long run. Have everything in one place before you get to work on your nails. Here's what you need: Nail polish remover Cotton balls Cuticle pusher or orange stick Nail trimmers Nail buffer Nail file Cuticle oil or hand cream Base coat Nail color Top coat Start with clean nails. If you're wearing old polish, remove it with some nail polish remover and a cotton ball. If you're wearing acrylics or gels you don't want to keep, you'll need to remove those , too. After removing your polish, wash your nails and dry them completely before you begin the manicure process. Look for a nail polish remover that doesn't contain acetone, an ingredient that can dry out your nails and make it more difficult to get them in tip-top manicure condition. If you're keeping your nails long, be sure to clean them well with soap and warm water. Trim and file your nails. Use nail clippers to trim your nails to the length you want. Longer nails are pretty but difficult to maintain. If you want shorter nails, don't trim them to the quick. The whites of your nails should extend past the tips of your fingers. File your nails by gently dragging the file across the nail to make each nail look evenly shaped. When you file your nails, be sure not to drag the file back and forth over your nails. Gently drag it in one direction only. This keeps the fibers in your nails from getting weak. Popular nail shapes include square or oval tips. For square tips, level off the tips of your nails so that they're straight across with rounded edges. For oval tips. file your nails into gently tapered oval shapes that are rounded at the tips. Buff your nails. Buffing smooths your nails and provides an even surface for your nail polish. Use the side of your buffer with the coarsest sandpaper first. Gently run it across the surface of your nails to smooth out the ridges. Do the same with the medium grade surface. Finish with the finest grade surface. Don't press too hard or buff too much. You don't want to thin out the surface of your nails. You can also wait to buff your nails after pushing back your cuticles. This is a good choice if your cuticles extend over a large portion of your nail. Soak and push back your cuticles. Soak your nails in a bowl of warm water for five minutes. Add a few drops of soap or scented oil if you'd like. This will soften your cuticles and make them easier to push back. Use the cuticle pusher to gently push your cuticles back toward your skin. Don't push too hard. Try to keep from tearing your cuticles. You want to keep them intact because they protect your nail beds from getting infected. Never use a cuticle trimmer. Manicurists often use these in salons, but they leave your fingers prone to infection. They also often cause bleeding. You can still get a beautiful manicure without trimming your cuticles. Apply oil or cream. This is a good chance to give yourself a light hand massage, for a classic salon experience. Rub the oil or cream into your hands, fingers and nails. Let it soak in for about five minutes. When you're ready, take a cotton ball or cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover and run it over your nails to remove the extra oil or lotion and allow your nail polish to stick. Apply the base coat. Carefully cover each nail with your clear base coat to provide a good surface for your nail color. The base coat will help ensure that your color looks even and doesn't streak. Let your base coat dry for five minutes before continuing. Base coat is usually clear, but sometimes it comes in a neutral shade. Either way is fine. Some base coats dry with a slightly tacky surface. This helps the nail polish adhere to your nail. Apply your nail color. Roll the bottle between your hands for about 10 seconds to blend the color and remove any air bubbles. Open the bottle and paint your nails using a thin, even coat. Dip the brush into the bottle and swirl it against the rim of the opening to remove excess polish. You want to load one small bead of paint on the brush. Paint a vertical line down the middle of your nail. Paint stripes on either side to fill in your nail completely. Continue until your nails are all painted. Shaking the bottle creates air bubbles, so make sure to roll it instead. As you paint, hold the brush at a slight angle and press gently to fan out the brush bristles. Avoid applying a large drop of paint and spreading it around. This will result in an uneven coat of paint. Keep the finger you're painting steady against a table or work surface. Let it dry and paint a second coat. The first coat should dry completely before you move on to the second coat. Paint your second coat in the exact same way. Start with one vertical stripe, then fill in the sides. Continue until your nails are all painted. Let the second coat dry completely before moving on. The second coat will normally take longer to dry than the first one. Be patient at this stage. You can help it along by holding your nails near (but not right next to) a fan. Touch up the sides. If you accidentally smeared a little nail polish on your skin, dip a cotton swab in some nail polish remover. Carefully rub it over the paint splotches to remove them. Avoid touching the cotton swab to your freshly painted nail. You can buy touch-up pens that help you do this more precisely. If you're right-handed and you're trying to use your left hand to touch up your right hand (or vice versa) steady your hand by resting it on a table. Finish with a top coat. This is a clear, smooth coat that will help your manicure stay in place for at least a week. Skipping the top coat will result in a paint job that chips much more quickly. Apply the clear top coat to all of your nails. Let it dry completely. Your manicure is now finished. At this point you can add extras like a stick-on or some gems. You may want to paint a second top coat over any stick-ons you use. Do a French manicure. This classic style looks pretty for everyday wear or a special occasion. The bases of your nails are painted a neutral color, while the tips are painted white. Paint a marbled manicure. This gorgeous look is not as hard to do as it might seem. Water marbling is a fun technique that incorporates more than one color for a beautiful impressionistic look. Do dip dye nails. A painted color fade never goes out of style. It's a subtle way to have fun with your nails without going overboard with designs. Try fading your nails from white to red, yellow to green, or doing a full rainbow. Try a seasonal look. Celebrate your favorite seasons and holidays with beautiful nail art. You can go with a simple holiday-themed color scheme, or try something more difficult like one of these designs: Snowman nails Easter bunny nails Beach nails for summer Spiderweb nails Create nature-inspired designs. Do you adore pandas? Are you a flower child? Show off your personality by painting your nails in a nature-inspired pattern. Here are a few cute, easy designs to try out: Panda nails Owl nails Cheetah print nails Flower nails

Gather your supplies. Start with clean nails. Trim and file your nails. Buff your nails. Soak and push back your cuticles. Apply oil or cream. Apply the base coat. Apply your nail color. Let it dry and paint a second coat. Touch up the sides. Finish with a top coat. Do a French manicure. Paint a marbled manicure. Do dip dye nails. Try a seasonal look. Create nature-inspired designs.

https://www.wikihow.com/Bleach-Your-Hair-Platinum-Blonde

How to Bleach Your Hair Platinum Blonde

To bleach your hair platinum blonde, you'll need a cream developer, bleaching powder, Vaseline, a mixing bowl, and an applicator brush. Make sure you open any windows in the room and turn on any ventilators to help get rid of the bleach fumes. You should also smear Vaseline over your hairline, ears and neck to protect them from the bleach. Mix your cream developer with your bleaching powder in a bowl. Apply the bleach and leave it to soak for 40 minutes. Then, rinse the bleach out and wash your hair with a pH neutralizing shampoo. Once your hair is pale yellow, apply a 20-developer natural blonde toner and leave it in for 25 minutes. If you want your hair to be lighter, wait a month before re-bleaching it to avoid damaging your hair.

Get your supplies. If you buy ingredients separately rather than in a kit, it is cheap. You can bleach your hair, then mix small amounts of the chemicals later to touch up your roots. Consider doing a test bleach. You can get some hair from your hairbrush and going through the bleaching process with it to test how it will go. It's better to test it out first; that way, there won't be any surprise you'll have to grow out! You can also test a few strands in an inconspicuous spot on the back of your head. Wash your hair a few days before you intend to bleach. Don't use styling products that may cause buildup. Leaving your natural oils on your head helps to protect your scalp and hair. Oil your hair. The night before you intend to bleach, soak your hair in coconut oil and leave it in overnight. Again, this helps protect your hair and scalp from damage. Gather your equipment and some old towels, and ventilate the area. Once you begin, you must work quickly to avoid burns, so having it all there helps. Brush out your hair. Carefully remove any tangles. Start by brushing out the ends, then gradually work your way up to the roots. If your hair is delicate, use a soft-bristle brush, a wide-toothed comb, or your fingers to work out tangles. Protect your eyes, skin, and clothes. Put on your goggles and gloves! Add tape around them to protect your eyes. Wear a button-down shirt or a loose-fitting top so that you can take off your shirt to rinse your hair without getting bleach all over your clothes. You can also protect your clothes by wearing a hairdresser's cape or draping an old towel around your shoulders. Protect your skin with Vaseline. Liberally smear around your hairline, ears and neck with Vaseline to provide a barrier between the bleach and your skin. Part your hair in 4 sections. Start by parting your hair down the middle from front to back into 2 equal sections. Then, divide each of those sections in half, making a part on each side just above your ear. Twist up each section and secure it with a plastic hair clip. Mix your cream developer and bleaching powder. Pour 2-3 ounces (60-90 ml) of cream developer into a plastic mixing bowl. Add 2 ounces (60 ml) of bleaching powder (or 1 scoop of clear developer and 1 scoop of bleach), in a room with windows. Remember that you will get a higher lift if you use 30 or 40 volume. Higher volumes also have a higher risk of burning your scalp. The bathroom is probably the best place to bleach your hair, since you will have easy access to your shower and sink. Leave the door open and open the window or turn on the bathroom fan, if you have one. Set a timer so that you know when you started the bleach application. Then commence mixing the bleach and developer mixture. Prepare to apply the mixture. Start applying the bleach at the back with an applicator brush. DO NOT start at your roots, unless you want to come out with lighter roots and darker ends. You can put foil under a section of hair, paint on the bleach, then wrap up that section in foil if you like. Make sure it is hairdressing foil and not tin foil from the grocery store or you could damage your hair. Add bleach all over your head. Keep 1 ⁄ 2 inches (3.8 cm) away from your roots initially. After you have finished the rest of your hair, apply the bleach mix to your roots, being careful not to massage it into your scalp too much. Avoid putting the bleach directly onto your scalp. If you do, it will sting or burn a little bit, and it will hurt a bit. If it burns a lot, this is a chemical burn. Rinse it out immediately. Adjust your process for darker spots, if desired. You may wish to put more bleach, earlier, on whichever part of your hair is darker. So, if your roots are dark and the rest of your hair has been bleached before, bleach the roots for 15 or 30 minutes longer than the rest of your hair. If your roots are light or blonde and the rest of your hair is darker, paint the dark bits first. Cover your hair. Put a shower cap, aluminum foil, or clear/white plastic bag over your hair. Make sure it's not covering your face, but is over all of your hair. Then tie it at the nape of your neck, making sure all of your hair is tucked underneath the bag. If you want a higher lift, use aluminum foil instead of a plastic bag. If you are using a grocery bag, make sure the side with printing on it is NOT against your head, or you will wind up with the color of the print processed into your hair a bit. Leave it like this for 40 minutes. Start timing from when you first started applying the bleach. Check your timer. If you leave it on for longer, it won't get any lighter, it will only damage your hair more. Check the color all the time. Once at a pale yellow, you must wash off the bleach. Don't leave bleach on for over an hour. Don't bleach any more once at pale yellow or your hair will break. If you've gone as long as you safely can and your hair is still not pale yellow, then rinse it out, tone your hair, and wait a month to re-bleach your hair. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Bleach-Your-Hair-Platinum-Blonde-Step-25.jpg\/v4-460px-Bleach-Your-Hair-Platinum-Blonde-Step-25.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Bleach-Your-Hair-Platinum-Blonde-Step-25.jpg\/aid121153-v4-728px-Bleach-Your-Hair-Platinum-Blonde-Step-25.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Rinse out the bleach when your hair is light enough. Wash out with a PH neutralizing shampoo. This will stop any further acidic or basic chemical reactions from occurring on your head. This will formally end the bleaching process. You ''must'' wash out the bleach mixture completely, or else you will damage your hair. After a while, the developer and powder stop reacting and your hair won't bleach any more, only become more damaged. If you over-bleach, your hair might end up feeling a little bit straw-like and brittle. If you're in doubt, rinse it out. Make sure to use a shampoo and conditioner designed for bleached blonde hair to eliminate any yellow and make your hair bright platinum and white. Any purple shampoo is fine. Remember purple counteracts yellow, makes it white, and eliminates brassiness. Add toner/dye if desired. Once hair is pale yellow, it is time to tone or color, if desired. Toner is semi-permanent hair dye that can counteract some of the unwanted hues from bleaching. For a natural platinum look, dye it with a natural blonde mixture with 20 developer, since the hair is already bleached. Leave it on for 25 minutes. For pale silver platinum, use a platinum dye with 20 developer, and leave on for 25 minutes. For yellowish-white, leave it the way it is after completely stripping all the color with the bleach. Use a lot of purple shampoo to eliminate and dull yellow or dye it a level 12 color. Leave on for 25 minutes. For white blonde or white use a white blonde toner, and leave on 25 minutes. Many of these toners are semi-permanent, so the color will fade and you can redo the toner the following week. Condition, condition, condition. Make sure your hair gets repair treatment and keratin protein and softening treatments. User a deep conditioning at least once a week. Use a protein treatment to strengthen your hair. Bleaching weakens your hair a lot, so adding protein will make it stronger and less susceptible to breakage. This takes a few hours to harden and about half an hour to wash out, so you must allow time to do it properly if you choose it. Don't bleach again right away. If you under-bleach, and your hair is an orange tone, you must wait a month in order to avoid damage to your hair and skin and then bleach it once more. While you're waiting, you might try using a blue shampoo to balance out the orange tones in your hair. Follow the directions on the bottle to determine how often you should use the shampoo and how long you need to leave it in your hair. Repeat the bleaching process after 1 month for even lighter hair. Apply once a month, until your hair is a light yellowish color. After re-bleaching, shampoo with a pH balancing shampoo, apply toner as desired, and be generous with conditioning treatments. After about 40 minutes (depending on your toner), wash, condition and dry as before. Be careful with the whole process. Do not bleach or dye your hair for more than an hour at a time, and always leave a month in between for processing time for your hair and scalp to heal. Otherwise, your hair will be damaged, dull, and frizzy. Your hair will become brittle and tend to break, and there's a possibility your head will be covered in scabs, which will develop into bald spots. Always condition in between! Be patient. Rock your new blonde locks. Make sure you keep up the good care of your hair, since bleaching can be a rough process. Condition often and use protein treatments to strengthen your hair and prevent breakage.

Get your supplies. Consider doing a test bleach. Wash your hair a few days before you intend to bleach. Oil your hair. Gather your equipment and some old towels, and ventilate the area. Brush out your hair. Protect your eyes, skin, and clothes. Protect your skin with Vaseline. Part your hair in 4 sections. Mix your cream developer and bleaching powder. Set a timer so that you know when you started the bleach application. Start applying the bleach at the back with an applicator brush. Add bleach all over your head. Adjust your process for darker spots, if desired. Cover your hair. Leave it like this for 40 minutes. Rinse out the bleach when your hair is light enough. Add toner/dye if desired. Condition, condition, condition. Use a protein treatment to strengthen your hair. Don't bleach again right away. Repeat the bleaching process after 1 month for even lighter hair. Be careful with the whole process. Rock your new blonde locks.

https://www.wikihow.com/Tie-a-Rope-Halter

How to Tie a Rope Halter

To tie a rope halter, start by tying 2 regular knots in the middle of the rope. Next, fold the rope over to form a cross shape, pull the loop through, and pull the knot tight. Then, extend the 2 ends of the rope and tie a simple overhand knot on the bottom strand and the top strand to form the throat latch. Finally, form the cheek pieces and the noseband before cutting off any excess rope to complete the halter.

Select a rope. There are many different types of rope available, and which type you use will depend on your preferences as well as your budget. Some experts recommend using an all-cotton rope for tying halters, as this material will be easier on your hands and on your horse's skin. Rope is available at most hardware stores, as well as many horse equipment retailers. Ropes made of synthetic materials tend to "burn" skin when dragged across the skin or through a clenched hand. For tying a horse halter, choose a rope that is between 1/2 inch to 9/16 inch in diameter. Cut it to length. If you are new to tying rope halters, you will want to give yourself more length to work with. Some experts recommend starting with a rope that's between 22 and 25 feet in length. As you gain experience and get more proficient with tying halters, however, you may be able to decrease your length of rope as short as 13 to 16 feet in length. Place the rope on a firm wooden block to cut or chop it to length. Use a sharp knife or axe to cut the rope to whatever length you desire. A dull blade could cause frayed ends, which can weaken the strength of your rope. Secure the ends. Even if you used a sharp blade to cut the rope, there's still a chance the ends could fray and come undone, which would weaken your rope and compromise the halter you're creating. That's why it's imperative that you secure the ends. You can do this by a number of methods: melt the ends of the rope over an open flame use a soldering iron to fuse the ends of the rope use a combination of soldering the ends and wrapping them in parachute cord wrap the rope with friction tape, applying two to three turns around the rope approximately 1/2 inch from the ends Tie two central knots. To begin with, lay your rope flat on the ground or on a table. Fold the rope in half so you can easily gauge the middle of the rope. Tie a simple, overhand-style knot at the center, and make sure it is snug. Then move your hands 11 inches to the left of the knot and tie a second overhand knot. When you've got two knots, adjust your hold on the rope so that the entire rope is folded in two at the direct center of the two knots you've just tied. These knots will later become the noseband knots that hold the halter around your horse's face. Fold and cross the rope. Keeping the rope folded together, move your hands down the rope. Grab a paired section so that you have both strands of the rope and cross them over the rest of the rope approximately seven inches from the center (between the two overhand knots). If looking at the rope flat on a table, the rope should come straight down from the center of the two knots, curve around over on itself (with the paired section off to the left of the rope, laid across the main strand), and taper back off to the right, forming what looks vaguely like a plus sign. Pull the loop through. With the paired strand forming a small loop still off to the left over the main strand, pull that loop down, under/behind the main strand, and up through the second loop that was formed at the bottom (the lower "leg" of the plus sign). The knot will be similar to a tied shoelace. Pull that knot tight, and you have a simple alternative to the fiador knot. Double check that the overhand knots from step one are still seven inches from the alternative fiador knot you've tied. Adjust the loops until they each measure approximately 2.5 inches in length. Once everything is spaced and arranged as it needs to be, tighten the knots as needed. Form the throat latch. Keeping the rope flat on the table, extend the two un-knotted ends of the rope off to the right of the alternative fiador knot. Take the "bottom" strand (farthest from you) and tie a simple overhand knot on this strand, approximately six to seven inches away from the loops. Then feed the other strand through the knot, but do not tighten it yet. Make a knot. With the loose strand through the un-tightened knot, pull the rope up, over, and back underneath the rope between your overhand knot and the alternative fiador knot. Pull the rope out to its end and then feed it back through the center of the knot. Pull both strands to tighten the knot. You should now have a double-stranded "arm: of rope between the alternative fiador knot and the overhand knot you've just tied. Make sure the distance between the alternative fiador knot and the overhand knot is still between six and seven inches. Adjust as necessary before tightening the overhand knot into place. Tie a loop. Take the strand of rope closest to you (on top, if looking down at the rope on a table) and form a simple overhand knot approximately 9 to 10 inches from the previous overhand knot. Before you tighten that knot, take the end of that rope and tie a loop knot. Feed the end of the strand you're working with through the overhand knot you've just formed. Pull it through the knot until you're left with a small loop approximately two inches in length. Using the same strand of rope, feed the strand up and over the overhand knot you've formed, then bring it back down under the knot. Feed the strand through the center of the loop and back through the knot. Pull on the loop and the end of the strand simultaneously to tighten the knot. Double check the length of the rope between the two knots. It should measure approximately 9 to 10 inches in length. Form the left cheek piece. The cheek piece should measure approximately 11 inches in length between the loop knot you've just formed to the noseband knot you formed at the original center of the rope. Start by loosening the central knot (noseband knot) closest to you and feeding the strand you've been working with through the middle of that knot. This strand will be the left cheek piece. Before you tighten the knot, cross the strand over and then under/behind the cheek piece. This should form a loose overhand knot. Then feed the strand back through the middle and tighten the knot. There should now essentially be a second knot directly against the noseband knot you're working with (also called a double-overhand knot). Tie the noseband. Begin by loosening the other noseband knot. Take the strand of rope you're working with and feed it through the center of the noseband knot, forming another double-overhand knot. Pull the strand of rope through the center and over the top of the two arches (between the two noseband knots). Feed the strand under and through the access. Then feed the strand through the loop you've just formed and continue through the center of the first simple overhand knot. Adjust the knots as needed to balance the alternate fiador knot and the noseband piece. When everything is in place, tighten the knots. Create the right cheek piece. This cheek piece should be approximately 11 inches in length, just like the left cheek piece. Start by forming a simple overhand knot with the strand you're working with. Take the other strand and feed it up through the center of the overhand knot. Then go up, over, and then underneath the loop you've just formed. Then put the end of that strand through the center of the overhand knot. Pull the strands on both ends of the knot to tighten it. Finalize the halter. Measure both strands of the halter to 27 inches. Cut off any excess rope in the same manner that you cut the rope at the beginning (a sharp blade on a wooden block), and secure the ends in the same way you did after cutting the rope to size. You now have a completed rope halter. Adjust the head stall. Size up the size of your horse or cow's head, and adjust the head stall as needed. Be sure to allow some slack in the chin strap. Hold the halter lead and the loop splice in your left hand and the head stall in your right hand. Approach the animal carefully. Choose an appropriate place to halter your animal. It's best if you do this away from other animals and away from any food sources so the animal does not become excited or distracted. Approach from the animal's left side and slide the nose piece over the animal's nose. Keep the chin strap underneath the animal's chin, and put the head stall over the top of the animal's head, behind the ears. Use caution when approaching any animal, especially if it's an animal you're not familiar with (and who isn't familiar with you). Secure with a quick-release knot. If you need to tie your animal to a post, use a quick-release knot. It's similar to a slip knot, but can be untied more quickly and easily in case of an emergency. Take the end of the lead in your hand and form a loop. Make a second, smaller loop to the left of where the first loop is formed, and lay it off to the right. Form a third loop and feed it through the second, smaller loop. Tighten the loop to form a knot.

Select a rope. Cut it to length. Secure the ends. Tie two central knots. Fold and cross the rope. Pull the loop through. Form the throat latch. Make a knot. Tie a loop. Form the left cheek piece. Tie the noseband. Create the right cheek piece. Finalize the halter. Adjust the head stall. Approach the animal carefully. Secure with a quick-release knot.

https://www.wikihow.com/Add-a-Subpanel

How to Add a Subpanel

To add a sub panel, also known as a breaker box, to add more circuit capacity, start by checking with your city's building and codes department to see if you need a permit. You'll also want to find a good light source that can run off a battery or generator so you can see what you're working on once the electricity is off. When you're ready to begin, shut off your main power breaker and remove all sub panel covers and doors. Measure about 5 feet from the floor to mark where you will mount the panel. Remove the lowest amp rated circuit breaker from the main panel to make space for the new sub panel, then route or extend the wires to the new panel. Use a wire cable to supply the sub panel from the main panel, and insert the conductor connections before re-installing the panel cover and restoring power.

Consult with an inspector so you don’t overload your system. A licensed inspector can confirm that it is safe for you to install a subpanel and won't put too much strain on your electrical system. They can also issue a permit to add a subpanel if your area requires one and they can inspect your subpanel after you install it to verify that it is up to code. The inspector can also advise what amperage your subpanel should be. Typical panels in the US have 100 or 200 amps, but older homes, or homes in other locations may only be able to support a 60-amp panel. An inspection and permit for your subpanel will ensure that you don't have any insurance or liability issues. Purchase a subpanel with all of the connections. When you're choosing a subpanel to install, get one that has all of the connectors, cables, and breakers that you need to install it. It's also important that you use a new panel and attachments so you can install it safely. Avoid purchasing used panels or cables or you could damage your electrical system and potentially cause a fire. You can find subpanels and attachments at hardware stores. You'll need a subpanel, 4-wire feeder cable, feeder breaker, and connectors to complete the job. Place a subpanel near the main panel to add additional circuits. If you need more circuits to power your electrical devices, install a subpanel adjacent to your main circuit breaker. This will allow you to extend your circuitry if you need to use more, while also allowing you to shut off power to the subpanel when you aren't using it. Place the subpanel about 1 foot (0.30 m) away from your main panel. Install a subpanel to power an additional room. A finished basement or a garage full of electrical devices needs a subpanel to fully power the room and any electrical devices you plan to use. Although the subpanel feeds off of the main breaker system, installing a new one also allows the room to have its own breaker box to control output in the room. A newly furnished shed could use an additional subpanel inside of it so the main system isn't overloaded. If you build an additional room as an add-on to your home, you may need a subpanel in it so your system can power it. Don’t install subpanels in a bathroom or closet. Subpanels have an electrical current running through them, so it's important that they don't get wet or overheat. The steam and humidity of a bathroom can cause a subpanel to short out and a full closet could potentially cause the circuitry to overheat. You also needs to be able to access the subpanel easily and maneuvering inside a small closet may be difficult. Turn off the power to the main panel. Before you begin any work on an electrical panel, shut off all of the power running through it. That way you can't accidentally shock or electrocute yourself. Look for the main power switch and push it. All of the lights and electrical devices should then turn off. Use a flashlight or portable lamp so you can see while you're working. Make sure that the system is turned off and there is no power running through the breakers by testing the lights in the room. Locate a wall stud where you want to install the panel. Use a stud finder and run it across the wall until it tells you you've located a stud. If you don't have a stud finder, you can try knocking lightly on the wall to see if you can hear a solid sound that would indicate a stud behind the wall. Check the electrical outlets on the wall if there are any. Most electrical outlet boxes are mounted on the side of a stud, so they can help tell you where one is located. Mark the location where the screws need to be added. Place the subpanel against the wall where you identified a stud. Use a pencil or marker to mark the wall where the 4 mounting screws need to be installed in order to hang the subpanel. Mark where the screws need to be drilled into the wall with a pencil or marker. Place the panel at a height of about 5 feet (1.5 m) so you can easily access it but children or pets cannot reach it. Check local building codes to see if you have to mount a subpanel at a specific height. Drill mounting screws into the stud leaving a 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) gap. Once you've located a stud, use a power drill to install mounting screws into it so you can install your subpanel. But don't drive the screws all the way into the stud. Leave a small gap between the mounting screw and the wall so the subpanel can fit onto it. Place the subpanel onto the mounting screws and tighten them. Slide the panel onto the mount so all of the screws are in the correct slots. Then, take a drill or screwdriver and tighten the screws so the panel is securely fastened against the wall. Give the panel a gentle shake to make sure it isn't loose and won't fall off of the wall. Remove the knockout slug on the side of the panel with a hammer. Look for a perforated circle on the side, top, or bottom of the panel. You can use a hammer and screwdriver to knock out the slug so you can insert wiring into the subpanel. Use a pair of pliers to remove the knockout slug if you're having trouble taking it out. Place the connector into the slot and secure it in place. With the knockout slug removed, insert the metal connector into the hole so you can insert your 4-wire feeder cable through it. Use a drill or screwdriver to tighten the screws on top of the connector to keep it held in place. The screws do not need to be installed in a wall stud. Screw on the retaining nut to the bottom of the connector inside of the subpanel. Run the feeder cable from the main panel to the subpanel. The 4-wire feeder cable should be included with your subpanel and is a large black cable with 4 wires inside of it. With the main panel door open, insert the cable and slide it through the knockout opening. Then feed it into through the knockout opening on the subpanel. Unwrap the insulation surrounding it with your fingers to expose the 4 wires inside. You may need to remove a knockout slug to insert the wires into the main panel. There should be a black wire, red wire, white wire, and bare metal wire. If you're installing a subpanel in a separate room from the main panel, use a longer feeder cable to reach it. Connect the neutral and ground wires to their bus bars. Take the white neutral wire, insert it beneath the screw at the top of the neutral bus bar in the main panel, and tighten the screw to secure it. Connect the other end of the wire in the subpanel in the same fashion. Then, connect the ground wire to the ground bus bar, tighten the screw to secure it, and connect the other end of the wire to the neutral bus bar in the subpanel. A bus bar is a metal strip or bar used to connect wires to power the panels. Check the inside of the door of the main and subpanel for a diagram showing the location of the bus bars and neutral bars. If the end of the wire is covered by sheathing, use a wire stripper or a utility knife to remove about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the sheathing to fit the exposed wire into the bus bar. Use a longer cable to reach a subpanel installed in a separate room. Insert the red and black wires into the feeder breaker. The feeder breaker is a black cube with switches on it that is added to the main panel to run power to the subpanel. Strip the very ends of the red and black wires to expose the metal wire beneath. Insert the wires into the slots on the feeder breaker beneath the 2 screws at the top. Tighten the screws on the connections so the wires are secure. Use a wire stripper or a utility knife to remove the sheathing at the end of the wire so the exposed wire can be inserted into the breaker. You may need to loosen the screws on the feeder breaker first to insert the wires. If you're adding a subpanel in a room away from the main panel, make sure the cable is long enough to reach from the subpanel to the main panel. Snap the feeder breaker into an empty slot in the main panel. With the feeder breaker connected to the red and black wires, connect it to an empty slot on your main panel by aligning the connections and pressing it into the slot. It will click into place if it's fitted correctly. Don't try to force or jam the feeder breaker or you could damage it. You can put the feeder breaker into any empty slot in your main panel. Attach the red and black wires to the terminals in the subpanel. The 2 “hot” bus bars are the bus bars that do not have a ground or neutral wire connected to them. Strip the end of the red and black wires, insert them beneath the screw at the top of the hot bus bars, then tighten the screws to connect and secure them. Give the wires a gentle tug to make sure they're fastened securely. Turn on the breaker and close the panels. After all of the wires and connections are secure, restore power to the main panel. Then turn on the feeder breaker that you added by flipping the switch. Your subpanel should now be functioning. If the subpanel isn't working or you're concerned it wasn't installed correctly, call a licensed electrician to come inspect the subpanel.

Consult with an inspector so you don’t overload your system. Purchase a subpanel with all of the connections. Place a subpanel near the main panel to add additional circuits. Install a subpanel to power an additional room. Don’t install subpanels in a bathroom or closet. Turn off the power to the main panel. Locate a wall stud where you want to install the panel. Mark the location where the screws need to be added. Drill mounting screws into the stud leaving a 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) gap. Place the subpanel onto the mounting screws and tighten them. Remove the knockout slug on the side of the panel with a hammer. Place the connector into the slot and secure it in place. Run the feeder cable from the main panel to the subpanel. Connect the neutral and ground wires to their bus bars. Insert the red and black wires into the feeder breaker. Snap the feeder breaker into an empty slot in the main panel. Attach the red and black wires to the terminals in the subpanel. Turn on the breaker and close the panels.

https://www.wikihow.com/Register-a-Horse

How to Register a Horse

To register your horse, contact the association for its breed to get an application form. If you don't know your horse's breed, you can ask a horse trainer or veterinarian to help identify it. Then, fill in all the details, and submit photos of your horse if required. If you're applying for purebred registration, you will probably need to provide a DNA sample too. You may also need to provide details of your horse's vaccination history, passport, and identification number if it has a microchip. Finally, pay any application fees that the organization charge and wait for your response.

Identify the breed of your horse. If you plan to show or compete with your horse, you likely know what breed they are. A horse trainer or veterinarian that works on different types of horses can help you identify the likely breed if you're unsure. Visit different breed association websites to read about the characteristics of different breeds. These websites will contain guidelines, specifications and rules about registering a horse for that specific breed. Other general breed-identification websites also list the significant characteristics of different breeds. Contact the corresponding breed association. Reach out to the breed association you're considering to ask any questions you may have. The association will provide you with any forms you'll need to complete the application process. They may be able to point you towards another organization if there is a better fit for your horse elsewhere. There are a variety of organizations you can register a horse with, like the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), and the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA). There are also breed-specific associations, which require a physical exam in order to register. Fill out a registration application. For almost all breed associations, fill out a written or online application. Follow the specific instructions on the breed association's website. Provide your horse's name, as well as information about the horse's sire and dam. You may also need to become a member of the association yourself. Usually, you'll save time and money by submitting the application online. Some associations still allow or prefer paper mail. Their website will contain this information. You may have to make an online account to navigate an association's application portal. Submit photos with the application. Some horse breeds are confirmed by the physical appearance of the horse. Include several clear photographs of your horse with the application. Be sure that the photos show any swirls, brands, belly splashes, or other significant markings. One common type of required photo is a silhouette, which may need to be verified by your vet. Wash the horse before taking photos to use in your application. Make sure the horse is dry, and that their coat is clearly visible in each photo. Apply for purebred registration. Purebred registration can greatly increase the value of your horse and make them eligible for exclusive shows and competitions. These applications will require more paperwork regarding the horse's genetic lineage. You will also likely need to provide a DNA sample. For instance, the Arabian Horse Association will provide you with a DNA kit and instructions once you've submit your application and application fee. Submit all necessary paperwork. Certain applications or scenarios may require additional paperwork. If your horse has a microchip, include the corresponding identification number. If your horse has a passport, include this information as well. Finally, include any vaccination information in your application materials. If you're registering a foal and do not own the foal's dam, you will likely have to fill out additional paperwork to verify this information. You'll also have to include additional information if you hope to register as the foal's breeder. Pay the application fee. Include payment of the application fee when submitting your application materials. These fees will vary, and some associations may require recurring fees. Further, fees may depend on factors unique to the horse, such as how the foal was conceived. There may also be a fee for you to register as a member of an association too. Fees will range from $25 dollars to more than $100. Join the USEF to compete in equestrian sports. The United States Equestrian Federation is the national governing body that regulates several equestrian disciplines for several different horse breeds. The USEF is the largest organization in equestrian sports of this kind. Register your horse in the USEF if it is one of the 11 different breeds recognized by the organization and you plan to compete in one or more of 18 different disciplines regulated by the Federation. Ensure the USEF recognizes your horse’s breed. You may also want to register your horse in a specific breed association, though this may not be necessary. The breeds recognized by the USEF include: Andalusian / Lusitano, Arabian / Half-Arabian / Anglo-Arabian, Connemaras, Friesian, Hackney, Morgan, National Show Horse, Paso Fino, American Saddlebred, Shetland, and Welsh. Consider the competitions the USEF regulates. Some of the regulations maintained by the USEF are internationally sanctioned. The USEF is the organization responsible for training and otherwise comparing many equestrian competitors for Olympic equestrian events. The specific international disciplines recognized by the USEF include Combined Driving, Dressage, Endurance, Eventing, Jumping, Para-Equestrian, Reining, and Vaulting. There are also several disciplines specific to the US that the Federation regulates. Gain access to exclusive opportunities. Aside from access to over 2, 600 regulated competitions, membership in the USEF offers further benefits. Involvement with the organization can help you meet and network with others who share your interest in showing and competing with your horse. There are events and programs as well as other opportunities that are only accessible for members of the USEF. Create an account on the USEF website. To join the USEF, you must make a “My USEF My Way” account on the organization's website. Enter your basic information as prompted by the website. Your creation of an account will provide you with a USEF ID. There are several types of memberships available. The online portal will guide you to make the selection that's best for you and your horse. Contact a USEF customer service representative for help signing up for a membership. Use this account to register for specific events, programs, and more. Don’t register unless you need to. It's only worth registering your horse for specific reasons. For instance, you have a horse you enjoy riding casually or work with, you likely don't need to register them. Registrations fees can be substantial, and the process can be time-consuming. However, registering your horse makes it easier to put them on the market, and may even increase their value. In short, if you hope to show or compete with your horse, or want to breed or sell your horse, register the horse in the appropriate registries. Forego registration if you don't harbor any of these intentions. Register only with necessary organizations. While this article outlines the steps to take in order to register with a specific breed association, as well as a larger regulatory federation, you may not need to do both. If you want to compete in a specific event, contact the event organizers and ask them about the requirements to participate. Only highly formal, stylized, and exclusive events will require multiple types of registration. Whenever unsure about the necessity of registering your horse, ask a local horse trainer or veterinarian about whether you should do so. Think about your horse’s registered name. While you can call your horse whatever you want when speaking to them, registries try to ensure that no two horses have the same name. Many breed associations and other organizations will have specific rules about the name of your horse. These will include rules about spelling and punctuation. These rules comply with certain show and competition regulations. You may want to find out about name requirement before submitting an application. Some breed associations will even require you to submit multiple potential names. This ensures one of the names is unique. The application may direct you to list names in order of your preference.

Identify the breed of your horse. Contact the corresponding breed association. Fill out a registration application. Submit photos with the application. Apply for purebred registration. Submit all necessary paperwork. Pay the application fee. Join the USEF to compete in equestrian sports. Ensure the USEF recognizes your horse’s breed. Consider the competitions the USEF regulates. Gain access to exclusive opportunities. Create an account on the USEF website. Don’t register unless you need to. Register only with necessary organizations. Think about your horse’s registered name.

https://www.wikihow.health/Control-Pain

How to Control Pain

To control pain, try to make yourself as comfortable as possible in a quiet, relaxing spot, which can help reduce any pain you're feeling since stress actually makes pain worse. Additionally, since extreme temperatures can cause you to feel more pain, try taking a warm bath or putting on a sweater if you're cold, or try using a cold compress or sitting next to a fan if you're feeling overheated. You can also do deep breathing exercises to minimize any pain you're feeling and make it easier to tolerate. Alternatively, you can distract yourself with something, like a good book, a movie, or a board game, so you're not focusing on your pain.

Talk to your doctor before you start taking pain medication. Speak with your doctor about medications you can take to help alleviate your pain symptoms. Your doctor will also know what interactions must be avoided or otherwise handled to help you avoid potential complications. They will be able to prescribe or recommend pain medication for you. Many drugs can interfere with existing health issues and can also cause severe interactions and complications if used with other medications. Be aware that most drugs treat acute pain. Chronic pain is far more complex and, to date, there are no known drugs that "cure" chronic pain. Take over-the-counter pain medication for mild to moderate symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications include NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, and acetaminophen-based products. Take OTC pain medications according to the directions on the label to relieve symptoms such as body aches and pains, headaches, fever, and to reduce swelling and inflammation from mild injuries. Always check with your doctor before you take OTC medications to make sure they're safe for you to take. When taken for a long time to manage chronic pain, many NSAIDs can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. Ask your doctor about prescription painkillers for severe pain. If OTC medications aren't able to adequately manage your pain symptoms, talk to your doctor about prescribing stronger painkillers for you. If your doctor believes you could benefit from it, they'll write a prescription for a painkiller for you to pick up from your local pharmacy. Take the medication as it's prescribed and follow any precautions on the label, such as avoiding driving or operating machinery. Common prescriptions for pain may include muscle relaxants, prescription-strength NSAIDs, or opiate painkillers such as codeine, Percocet, or Vicodin. Injections like a local anesthetic, a steroid injection (anti-inflammatory) or a phenol injection (a nerve block/destroyer) are also possible for pain relief. Don't use prescription painkillers unless they have been prescribed specifically for you by your doctor. Use trigger point injections to treat muscle pain. Trigger point injection is a procedure where a doctor uses a small needle to directly inject pain medication into a trigger point, usually a knot of muscle that will not relax. If you have persistent muscle pain that isn't relieved by other pain medications, ask your doctor about trigger point injection. Trigger point injections can also be used to treat fibromyalgia and other chronic muscle pains if other treatments have not worked. A trained healthcare provider must administer trigger point injections. Take any medication as it’s prescribed to manage your pain symptoms. It's important that you take any OTC or prescribed pain medications as they're prescribed by your doctor or recommended on the label. Even if your pain symptoms start to improve, you need to continue taking your medication according to your doctor's instructions to avoid complications or reducing the effectiveness of the medication. Your pain symptoms could lead to other problems as well. For instance, if you injure your left knee and you choose not to take your pain medication, then you'll naturally favor that side and you'll develop pain or strain other areas as you overcompensate for your injury. Research an alternative pain management treatment before you try it. There are many treatments that make huge claims that aren't substantiated by scientific research. Before undergoing any complementary, alternative, or “natural” treatment for pain, do your research and consult with your doctor. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is a division of the National Institutes of Health, has a free downloadable eBook about what to consider when thinking about complementary approaches to pain management. Consult with the licensing or certifying board of the practice you're considering. For example, make sure that your practitioner is licensed and/or certified and that they have adequate training in their field. Be suspicious of any treatment that claims to be a “miracle cure” or to treat many conditions at once. These claims are almost always fraudulent. Try acupuncture to relieve lower back pain. Acupuncture uses very thin needles to stimulate sensitive points on your body. It has long been a part of traditional Chinese medicine and is now considered a viable pain relief technique by many medical doctors and researchers. Acupuncture is not a “magic bullet,” but several studies have shown that professional acupuncture can be effective in relieving pain, especially lower back pain. It's important to ask your doctor about alternative treatments, including acupuncture. All of your healthcare providers should work together in managing your pain. Not everyone responds to acupuncture. Its effects are usually visible within a few weeks. Acupuncture has been shown by several studies to relieve back pain, but it's often more effective when combined with other treatments, such as pain medication. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is the certifying board for acupuncturists in the US. Visit their website to find a certified practitioner at: https://www.nccaom.org/find-a-practitioner-directory/. Use nerve stimulation to help relieve your pain symptoms. TENS, or "transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation," and dorsal column stimulation use a machine that delivers small electrical impulses, stimulating the nerves that carry touch sensations. While it's not always effective for everyone, nerve stimulation may help relieve your pain symptoms. Talk to your doctor about using stimulation methods to control your pain. These methods use a little machine that delivers small electrical impulses, stimulating the nerves that carry touch sensations. Each type of stimulation approach has success with different kinds of pain but not all types. For example, the dorsal column stimulation seems to work best with nerve damage in legs but does little for back pain. Neither machine is a cure, but they may be effective for some people. Go to a massage therapist for back and shoulder pain. Several studies have shown that regular massage by a trained massage therapist can reduce pain and disability. Massage can provide fairly quick pain relief, especially for back and shoulder pain. Search online for licensed massage therapists near you that you can visit. If you have a specific pain, such as chronic neck pain, your doctor may be able to give you a referral for targeted massage. Some health insurance companies will cover this type of massage but not other types. Massage may also help reduce your reliance on pain medication. Look into physical or occupational therapy for long-term management. These methods can be very helpful for pain, especially related to muscle, bone, or joint pain. An occupational therapist can work with you to learn to redirect pain so that it interferes less with your daily life. Physical therapy can help you manage pain by teaching strengthening and flexibility exercises, manual therapy, posture awareness, and body mechanics instruction, as well as assisting in discovering the root of your pain. Taking your experience into account, an occupational therapist may use visualization, yoga, meditation, and gentle exercises to increase your stamina, strength, and ability to cope with pain. Consider chiropractic adjustment for back and neck pain. Chiropractors are trained specialists who can manipulate your spinal area to improve your body's functioning and alignment. An adjustment is a common treatment for lower back pain, neck pain, and frequent headaches. This process is sometimes known as “spine manipulation.” It has been shown to be effective for mild to moderate pain. Always have this procedure done by a licensed, trained provider. It is not a good option if you have nerve pain or damage. Consult with your doctor before visiting a chiropractor to make sure it is safe for you. Boost your pain treatment with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is performed by a trained therapist or psychologist and focuses on how you respond to experiences to help you manage your reaction to them. For individuals who suffer from chronic pain, CBT can be a useful complementary treatment. CBT teaches you to identify negative and unhelpful ways of responding to pain and replace them with helpful responses. For example, many studies have shown that ruminating on pain — thinking the same thoughts over and over, like a broken record, e.g., “I'm in so much pain I can't stand it” — can make you experience pain more severely. CBT will help you challenge those negative thoughts. Unlike medication, you will not develop a tolerance for therapy, and there are minimal side effects. CBT has been demonstrated effective in managing many types of chronic pain, including chronic lower back pain, headaches, arthritis, and fibromyalgia. CBT has also been used to treat pain from cancer. CBT can be a good choice in treating chronic and recurring pain in children and adolescents. Biofeedback training, relaxation training, and parent training can all help children manage chronic pain without the more dangerous side effects of pain medication. Practice biofeedback training to help you manage your pain. Biofeedback training connects your body to a range of electrical sensors. With the help of a trained professional, you learn how to direct your body's responses to stimuli. For example, you might learn to relax certain muscles or lower your heart rate. Learning how to control your body's stress responses helps reduce your experience of pain without the undesirable side effects of medication. Biofeedback can be performed by several types of trained practitioners. Physical therapists may use biofeedback to help people regain motion after an injury or trauma. Psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychotherapists may use biofeedback to teach their clients how to control stress responses and reduce anxiety and psychosomatic or psychogenic pain (pain that is related to psychological factors). Dentists, nurses, general practitioner physicians, and other medical professionals may also use biofeedback with patients. Biofeedback has been shown to be helpful in treating pain from irritable bowel syndrome, migraine, tension headaches, Raynaud's disease, and back pain. Ask your doctor whether biofeedback could be helpful for you. Most biofeedback therapists will want you to have had a thorough physical examination before trying biofeedback training to ensure that you do not have any health issues that require medical intervention. You can find a directory of clinical biofeedback practitioners via the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback at https://www.aapb.org/i4a/memberDirectory/index.cfm?directory_id=4&pageID=3834. Consider medical marijuana if it’s legal where you live. Some jurisdictions have legalized the use of marijuana for medical purposes, or even in general. Marijuana can help alleviate some types of pain, especially general chronic pain. It is important to consult with your doctor before using marijuana so that you understand its benefits and risks and make sure you know the legal status in your state. Some people should not use marijuana, as it can interfere with pre-existing health conditions. Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective for treating some nerve pain, such as that caused by HIV or MS. Marijuana is natural, but it also has risks. It may irritate asthma or allergies. It may also cause dizziness, increased risk of bleeding, or low blood pressure. Marijuana may be addictive. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use marijuana. Teens who suffer from chronic pain should not use marijuana, as it may cause psychosis, impaired reactions, and poor concentration. Try using hypnosis for short-term pain control. Hypnosis for pain relief works by implanting suggestions that can take your mind off the pain. However, it tends to be short-lived, so it may not be the best long-term solution. It also tends to be expensive, so it's not for everyone. Ask your doctor for a referral if you're interested. You'll need a trained therapist for this approach and you need to be amenable to being hypnotized. Hypnosis can be a helpful treatment for chronic pain. It may work by altering how your mind responds to pain. Meditate to control your reaction to your pain. There are several types of meditation, but one that is commonly recommended for pain is mindful meditation. This type can actually change how your brain responds to stimuli, including pain. You can also try transcendental meditation, where you focus on repeating a single mantra. Ask your doctor whether there are any practitioners who are certified in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Use soothing techniques to make yourself feel better. Because emotional and physical pain is strongly linked, making yourself comfortable and using soothing techniques may help relieve your pain. Many studies have shown that a placebo is often as effective as medical treatment. This may be because of your expectations: if you expect a treatment to work, it may be more likely to. This is why things like chicken soup can actually help you feel better. Adjust the temperature so you’re comfortable. For some types of pain, feeling too hot or too cold can exacerbate the feelings of pain. Keeping warm by adding a blanket, a sweater, a hot water bottle or taking a hot bath might help in some cases. Or, if you're feeling too hot, having a cool shower, going for a swim, sitting by a fan, putting a wet cloth on your forehead, etc., might be ways to alleviate the pain. A heating pad can be useful for the neck, back, and other strain-type pains. An ice pack is useful for sprains, scratches, bruises, and cuts. Go somewhere that is quiet, calm and peaceful to settle your mind. Find a room or area that is away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and simply sit or lie down for a while on your own. Relaxing is a way to reduce your stress, which can aggravate pain. The American Chronic Pain Association has a short five-minute relaxation exercise that can help you control pain. You can find it here: theacpa.org/Relaxation-Guide Dress comfortably to ease tension on your body. If clothing is constricting or pressing on a painful area of your body, you won't feel relaxed and the pressure being applied can intensify the pain. Find clothes and shoes that don't constrict the area of pain, even if this means wearing a larger size for a time. If you don't have comfortable clothing, you can get some from second-hand stores or thrift stores. You don't need to spend a lot for comfort. Use breathing techniques to control your pain. There are various ways in which breathing can both control the pain and help keep you relaxed. Controlled breathing (the kind practiced by yogis and athletes) can assist with pain relief. This helps you to relax and focus, often making the pain easier to handle. Some examples of this include: Inhale from the stomach, slowly filling yourself with air up to the collarbones. Then exhale from the stomach, repeating the same process in reverse. Make sure your exhalations are longer than your inhalations. Try to inhale to the count of four and exhale to six or, if you can, eight. As you continue breathing, try to make your inhalations and exhalations longer. Try inhaling for four seconds, then exhale for six. Then hold with empty lungs and repeat this procedure. This should help you to calm yourself and also distract you a little from the pain. Distract yourself so you don’t focus on long-term pain. Distraction involves doing something else to take your mind off the pain and is often recommended by medical professionals to help control pain. Different things work for different people, so you may need to try a range of things until you find something that helps you tolerate ongoing pain. Try reading a good book or watching a funny movie to distract yourself. Pick up a new hobby that will keep your mind occupied such as sewing, playing an instrument, or cooking. Relieve immediate pain using a quick distraction. Acute pain that feels unbearable requires fast distraction methods. Distraction won't remove the pain, but it might provide you with the strength needed to handle it until its severity subsides. Creating minor pain and irritation can help to divert your mind's attention to major pain. Some quick distraction techniques include: Stroking, rubbing or vibrating the skin above or around the painful area. Massaging the painful area. Clutching an ice cube in your hand or holding to a part of your body to provide an alternative shock of pain to distract from the real pain. Clapping your hands together tightly to change the focus to your hands; clap harder to create minor, temporary pain in the hand area to distract from the real pain. Gripping onto something such as a pole, a stuffed toy, a chair back, etc. Swearing or cursing can help reduce pain. Play a game to occupy your mind and avoid thinking about your pain. Research has shown that active distractions that require you to do something are more effective than passive distractions, such as watching TV, in controlling pain. If your pain is acting up, try playing a game, doing a puzzle, or doing some other activity that gets you involved. Use imagery to help remove or fight off pain. Imagine the pain to be small and weak, or try picturing a beautiful, relaxing place in your mind. Then, imagine that the pain is an object that you can remove from that place like a rock that you throw far out into the ocean. Imagery works especially well when combined with pain medications. For example, if it's a headache, then decide if the left or right side hurts worse. Does the front of that side or the back of that side hurt worse? The upper of that side or the lower? And so forth. This can help to minimize the pain by making it seem smaller. Listen to music to relieve stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety often make our experience of physical pain worse. Listening to calm, relaxing music can help you control emotional and physical pain. You could also listen to upbeat music such as rock or rap to put yourself in a better mood. Classical music and other music that has approximately 70 beats per minute is best for relaxing you and relieving pain. Relax in your favorite chair or resting spot. Ensure that you are as comfortable as you can be (taking the type of pain you're suffering into account), and then listen to the music for a good half hour or so. Spend time with people who care about you. Sometimes, pain is amplified by feeling lonely and left out. Studies have shown that emotional and physical pain use the same brain pathways. If you have good friends or supportive family members around whom you feel good and energized, this can be a great way to distract yourself from the pain, and to restore your sense of being connected and cared for. Make sure you’re sitting comfortably at your workplace and home. The way you sit and the length of time you sit for can be a major source of pain. If you have neck, head, shoulder, torso, upper and/or lower back, leg or arm pain and you sit a great deal, consider whether that pain is either caused by or exacerbated by the sitting and lack of regular movement. Ensure that the ergonomics of your desk and chair have been professionally assessed and adjusted for your height and work style. Also, make sure that your computer is at the right level for your height. Take regular breaks when working on computers, machinery, reading and other tasks that have you seated and locked into a single position for long periods of time. The human body wasn't made for inactivity, and getting up and moving about regularly can give your body the break it needs. If you perform any sort of repetitive activity, find ways to vary how you sit, stand or move. If you don't, pain will be fairly inevitable result and, in some cases, may prove to be permanent. Some people find it helps to use a standing or a treadmill desk to ensure that they stay active while working with a computer or digital device. Lose weight to reduce your pain levels. If you are overweight, the extra pounds increase the load you put on your joints and can lead to osteoarthritis pain as well as inflammation. Making changes to your diet and engaging in even light exercise, such as walking in a pool or lifting 2-pound weights, helps reduce the strain on your body and can significantly reduce your pain. Though it may seem counterintuitive to exercise when your body is in pain, it can lead to serious pain reduction in the long-term. Start with small, easy exercises and slowly build up your strength. Talk to you doctor about getting started and which kinds of exercise would be appropriate for you. Manage your stressors to reduce your pain and anxiety. Identify your stressors and triggers so you can start to find ways to either reduce or avoid these, which in turn, will help to remove sources of pain aggravation. Stressors that can amplify pain include unhealthy eating, smoking, lack of sleep, lack of exercise, inappropriate environment, procrastination and being around "toxic" people. Eat foods that give you the best nutritional returns. While chocolate, pastries, fries and the like are tempting when you feel bad, they provide little to no nutritional value and lessen the ability of your body to heal itself. Stick to foods that are nutritionally dense; you might even like to spend some time researching foods that are thought to heal the body. Being tired on top of feeling pain will always exacerbate the pain. Your body needs regular, adequate sleep rest to run its standard restoration processes. If you're struggling to sleep, get advice from your doctor. Get sufficient exercise. Exercise, including a good long and steady walk around your neighborhood, is an ideal way for relieving stress and ridding yourself of the pent-up anxiety that can hamper sleep. Check your work or home environment. An environment can come with its own stressors, depending on your sensitivity. For example, a lot of noise, a lack of privacy and crowded space can be sources of stress if you are constantly facing them and find them hard to deal with. Consider how you can reduce your exposure to such forms of stress, such as wearing headphones, shifting to a quieter space or getting outside often. Try to avoid procrastinating. By getting your tasks, chores, work, etc. done on time, you remove a source of stress. Find ways to work around or remove other sources of stress in your life that amplify the pain. Hate peak hour traffic? Rearrange your travel time to be outside of peak hours. Does networking cause you break out into a sweat and induce a migraine? Pinpoint one person worth talking to, talk to that person, then allow yourself to go for a walk outside until the next part of the event. Do family gatherings drive you to the point of despair? Smile a lot and simply say, "No thank you," or, "Pleased to know that," instead of engaging in arguments and one-upmanship; save yourself the emotional exacerbation that can heighten pain. Rest the injured or damaged part so you don’t do more damage. If you have hurt yourself during sport, physical activity or other actions, it is important to rest the area that is injured so that it has a chance to heal. For example, if you hurt a leg, keeping off that leg until it is stronger may be important for healing. However, don't become completely inactive, as movement is usually a key part of recovery. Discuss finding the perfect balance with your doctor. Use low-impact exercise to relieve chronic pain. For those with muscle strains or sprains, the best remedy is generally the RICE model (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). If you've taken a fall on hard ground or your back is stiff, however, exercise can often be more beneficial than resting. Mild, low-impact exercise can relieve some types of chronic pain. Examples of low-impact exercises include walking, swimming, and yoga. Exercise that relieves anxiety will often relieve pain as well since anxiety can increase your perception of pain. Do stretches to improve flexibility and reduce pain. In some cases, gentle stretching can help to alleviate the pain, such as back pain. It is a good idea to see a physiotherapist or similar professional who can advise you which exercises will benefit the area and relieve the pain. Be aware that doing the wrong exercises, exercising in the wrong way or stretching too much can make the pain worse. It could also lead to re-injury. If you aren't sure that the stretches are good ones to do, don't do them until you have proper advice. Yoga and pilates are often a gentle way to stretch and relieve pain. Always use qualified instructors and be sure that your doctor or physical therapist has agreed to the exercise first. Do yoga, tai chi, or Pilates to improve relieve your pain. Yoga, tai chi, and pilates are often a gentle way to stretch and relieve pain. Some of the relief may be due to increased strength and flexibility developed by these exercises. The emphasis on mindfulness and meditation in these practices may also help you manage pain. Always use qualified instructors and be sure that your doctor or physical therapist has agreed to the exercise first. Tai Chi is a gentle Chinese martial art that incorporates meditation and fluid movements. Many gyms and community centers offer tai chi classes. If you are pregnant, have joint problems, fractures, or hernias, consult your doctor before starting Pilates, tai chi, or yoga. Focus on your efforts to overcome your chronic or ongoing pain. It is a process, a journey. It is likely that some moments, times or days, the pain will overwhelm you, while other days you will feel more in control. Understanding that the struggle is likely to be ongoing can help you to be more accepting of the pain overall, allowing you to start learning to live with it. Keep a journal or diary to help you track your pain. Writing down your feelings and emotions can be both cathartic and revealing. You don't have to share any of what you write with anyone, so you can write down whatever you need to express. Reading back over the journal can reveal patterns of times when the pain is worse than other times, allowing you to pinpoint actions or omissions that will help you to reduce the pain. Use your writing to explore your thinking. How many negative thoughts are you experiencing? Is your thinking often negative or do you experience peaks and troughs of such thoughts? While it is important to let your negative thoughts surface so that they can be experienced, it is equally important to let go of them once you've acknowledged their presence. Writing them down can help you to work through them, then release them, and this can help to alleviate pain too, as you stop feeling so confused or bogged in negativity. Be gentle on yourself about your pain. It's common for people dismiss pain in an attempt to "act tough," "not be a wimp" or "tough it out." Pain is a very personal experience and there is no way that one person can assume that another person's pain isn't real, severe or debilitating. While each person suffering pain can seek and make use of methods that might relieve the pain, the reality is that some pain cannot be easily treated and some pain, no matter what is done, does not go away. Do not judge yourself or allow others to judge you. Read all you can about your type of pain. Learn what others have to say about it and have done about it. Borrow the techniques and solutions that you think will work for you and see what happens (of course, keep it safe and sensible). Some people may dismiss pain as being “all in your head.” As researchers learn more about the relationship between your mind and your body, there is increasing evidence that shows that pain being “all in your head” doesn't mean it isn't also real. Realize that depression and anxiety are bed-mates of those suffering chronic pain. They need treating too, so be sure to seek help. Asking for help from a therapist is a sign of strength and courage, not of weakness. You may find that if you can deal with these conditions, the pain experience will lessen somewhat as your perception changes. Finding hope in your life is vital to pain recovery. Understand what’s causing your pain so you can manage it. Targeting pain relief as best you can requires a basic understanding of what pain is and how it is felt within your body and mind. In a nutshell, pain signals that there is danger, distress or damage, triggering a need to protect the area harmed. Pain is also a way of letting a damaged area heal. Sending out pain signals during the repair process allows your body to alert you that you need to take extra care of that part of your body. Physical pain is signaled through nociceptors (pain receptors) throughout your body. The signals can be activated by cutting, tearing, inflammation, irritation, heat, or other painful stimuli. These pain receptors send signals via the myelinated (sheathed) nerves to the an area of the spinal cord called the dorsal horn. The dorsal horn “decides” whether to dampen or amplify these signals before sending them to the brain. Nociceptors (pain receptors) are found in most of the body's tissues and there are more of them in sensitive zones. Pain is felt in the brain; this is why "referred pain" is possible, when one part of the body experiences the pain even though another part of the body is injured. The brain's role also helps explain why we may experience pain even after our injuries have healed. The brain may continue to send “protective pain” signals without a clear cause. Pain signals from the head and face area go directly to the brain stem. Pain signals from these areas may go to the thalamus, a “relay station” that sends a variety of sensory signals to different areas of your brain. Differentiate between acute and chronic pain. Pain comes in two forms: acute and chronic. Acute pain is immediate pain from an injury, disease or damage. For example, if you break your ankle, the pain from that injury is acute pain: it has a clear and immediate cause and should dissipate as the injury heals. Chronic pain is ongoing and often embedded in a long-lasting injury or damage. Pain is considered to have become chronic when it has continued more than three to six months after the damage or persists beyond the standard healing time expected for the injury in question. Chronic pain is often considered by medical professionals as a disease in itself, much like diabetes or asthma. Chronic pain often involves psychological aspects as well as physiological aspects. Emotional responses such as anxiety, anger, and fear can exacerbate chronic pain. Treating it can be complex and difficult. Three common types of chronic pain are: low back pain, headache or migraine, and neck pain. Fibromyalgia is a common diagnosis for sufferers of some chronic pain and/or fatigue. Scientists do not yet know what causes fibromyalgia. Possible culprits include physical or emotional trauma, differing brain responses to pain, sleep disturbances or infection. Fibromyalgia most commonly affects women between the ages of 20 and 50. Learn about how you can mentally control your pain. There are several theories about how your body processes pain responses. One widely influential theory of pain is the Gate Control theory. First proposed in the 1960s, this theory suggests that pain is like an open gate that can be “closed” by non-painful input. Essentially, your brain becomes confused because it is getting two messages at once: “pain=danger” and “touch or vibration=not a threat.” This confusion may keep your brain from processing as much of the pain response. For example, if you hit your thumb with a hammer, your first response may be to suck on it or shake it. The gate control theory explains this response because the non-painful response may suppress the pain sensation that is coming from your central nervous system. The periaqueductal grey (PAG) area of your brain is also involved in regulating pain. This area operates through a process known as Stimulation-produced analgesia or SPA. Stimulation of the PAG inhibits neurons in your spine, causing them to modulate (i.e., reduce) your pain at the spinal cord before it travels back to your brain. Conflicting messages can stimulate or “turn on” cells in the PAG. When opiates called endorphins are released, these stimulated cells, which have receptors for those endorphins, receive them and reduce your pain. This process may help explain why acupuncture can be effective in pain management. Some drugs, like morphine, bind to the same receptors as endorphins (the body's natural pain-killers). Note that both physical and emotional pain are real. “Hurt feelings” are more than an expression; they're scientific fact. Research has shown that emotional pain stimulates the same areas of your brain as physical pain. Do not feel ashamed of feeling emotional or physical pain. Because pain is such a personal, subjective experience, managing or coping with that pain is too. Don't let anyone dictate how you “ought” to cope with your pain. For example, one study showed that feeling excluded from a social activity activated the brain's anterior cingulate cortex in participants. This area is also activated during physical pain. Another study showed that a breakup can actively hurt. When participants were shown a photograph of an ex as they thought about the breakup, the same areas in their brain and body — the secondary somatosensory cortex and dorsal posterior insula — activated that are responsible for physical pain. How you feel and think about pain can have a huge impact on how you continue to feel the pain. Your thoughts about it can increase or decrease the pain-blocking messages from your brain. The more anxious, negative, or depressed you're feeling, the greater the pain is likely to feel. Getting psychological help, such as therapy, can help you manage physical pain as well as emotional pain. Identify the source of your pain so you can control it better. In order to manage pain effectively, you have to know what is causing it. While there is a lot of information available to you, that information can also make you worry excessively or misdiagnose your pain. Consulting with your doctor will help you get a proper diagnosis and understand how to treat your pain. There are several categories of pain that can help you narrow down what may be causing your pain: Neuropathic. This kind of pain is caused by damage to the nervous system. This type of pain often causes symptoms such as: burning or tingling numbness with the pain stabbing pain Radicular. This pain is caused by compression or irritation of nerves in your neck and spine. You may experience shooting pains that radiate down your arm or leg. Somatic. This pain is what we often associate with “pain.” It happens when pain receptors in your body, either on its surface or in musculoskeletal tissues, are stimulated. Myofascial. Myofascial pain is a subtype of somatic pain that refers specifically to muscles. This pain can involve a single muscle or a muscle group. Visceral. This pain is related to your guts (viscera): heart, lungs, bladder, and other internal organs. This type of pain can feel very vague or nonspecific; you may not know where the pain is originating, you just know that you hurt. Not all causes of pain can be identified. It is important to keep talking to your doctor, specialist and/or psychologist about what to do when you continue to feel pain but no identifiable cause can be found, or appropriate solution is given. Be as tenacious as the pain is, to try to unearth what is really behind the pain. Learn how to describe your pain so you can get better treatment. In most cases, doctors will rely on your description of your pain to help them understand how to treat you. In addition to examinations and tests, your doctor will likely interview you about your pain. This is called taking a “pain history.” The more specific you can be, the better your doctor will be able to help you manage your pain. For example, doctors may ask whether your pain is sharp or dull, constant or intermittent, burning or aching. Other things about your pain to consider include: Whether the pain is concentrated in one area or is spread all over. When you feel the pain is most severe. What activities or movements make the pain worse or better. How the pain affects your activities and daily life. There are many terms that can help you describe how your pain feels. Thinking about words to describe your pain may help you communicate how you're feeling to your healthcare provider. Possible descriptive words include: sharp, stabbing, splitting, shooting gnawing, aching, heavy, exhausting throbbing, hot, burning cramping, punishing, tender, sore

Talk to your doctor before you start taking pain medication. Take over-the-counter pain medication for mild to moderate symptoms. Ask your doctor about prescription painkillers for severe pain. Use trigger point injections to treat muscle pain. Take any medication as it’s prescribed to manage your pain symptoms. Research an alternative pain management treatment before you try it. Try acupuncture to relieve lower back pain. Use nerve stimulation to help relieve your pain symptoms. Go to a massage therapist for back and shoulder pain. Look into physical or occupational therapy for long-term management. Consider chiropractic adjustment for back and neck pain. Boost your pain treatment with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Practice biofeedback training to help you manage your pain. Consider medical marijuana if it’s legal where you live. Try using hypnosis for short-term pain control. Meditate to control your reaction to your pain. Use soothing techniques to make yourself feel better. Adjust the temperature so you’re comfortable. Go somewhere that is quiet, calm and peaceful to settle your mind. Dress comfortably to ease tension on your body. Use breathing techniques to control your pain. Distract yourself so you don’t focus on long-term pain. Relieve immediate pain using a quick distraction. Play a game to occupy your mind and avoid thinking about your pain. Use imagery to help remove or fight off pain. Listen to music to relieve stress and anxiety. Spend time with people who care about you. Make sure you’re sitting comfortably at your workplace and home. Lose weight to reduce your pain levels. Manage your stressors to reduce your pain and anxiety. Rest the injured or damaged part so you don’t do more damage. Use low-impact exercise to relieve chronic pain. Do stretches to improve flexibility and reduce pain. Do yoga, tai chi, or Pilates to improve relieve your pain. Focus on your efforts to overcome your chronic or ongoing pain. Keep a journal or diary to help you track your pain. Be gentle on yourself about your pain. Understand what’s causing your pain so you can manage it. Differentiate between acute and chronic pain. Learn about how you can mentally control your pain. Note that both physical and emotional pain are real. Identify the source of your pain so you can control it better. Learn how to describe your pain so you can get better treatment.

https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Chicken-Run

How to Build a Chicken Run

To build a chicken run, start by digging a 12 inch hole for your first fence post, which should be at least 7 feet tall. Hold the post firmly while you pack the dirt around the base to secure it. Continue adding fence posts 6-8 feet apart until you've enclosed the entire area. Then, drill boards horizontally, connecting the tops of each fence post. Once you're done with the frame, staple welded wire fencing to each fence post every 6 inches. Finish by installing a gate that's easily accessible to your chicken coop.

Create at least 10 sq ft (0.93 m2) of outdoor space per chicken. Count how many chickens you have and calculate the total area your run needs to be. For example, if you have 10 chickens, you would need 100 sq ft (9.3 m ) minimum for your chickens to be comfortable. Build your chicken run larger than you need if you plan to grow your flock in the coming years. Plan the layout of your run next to your chicken coop. Lay boards on the ground to get an idea of the shape and size your chicken run will be. Aim to make the sides similar in length rather than long and narrow. This gives your chickens more room for roaming around. Measure the planned length and width of the run to find the total area. Compare the area of the chicken run to the minimum requirement for the size of your flock. Make sure one of the sides aligns with the small door built into the coop so the chickens can get in and out. If your coop doesn't have a small door, cut one into the side with a saw. Think about where you want to install the gate so you can access the run easily. Account for how tall you need to make your run. You should comfortably be able to walk in and out of the run once it's finished, so it should be over 6 ft (1.8 m) tall. Keep the run in the shade in warmer climates. Temperatures consistently over 90 °F (32 °C) can be lethal for chickens if they're in direct heat. Chickens adapt to the cold better than the heat, so make sure the run isn't in direct heat. Build your run so it has tree cover or another source of consistent shade throughout the day. Plant new trees near your run if you don't have any existing shade. Let the run get full sun in cooler climates. Chickens can easily survive in low temperatures, but they don't want to be cold all of the time. If you live in a climate that gets below 20 °F (−7 °C) often, make sure your run isn't shaded. Find an area that gets even amounts of sun and shade throughout the day if you live in a climate that gets extreme highs and lows. Dig a hole 12 in (30 cm) deep for your first fence post. Place the first 4 in × 4 in (10 cm × 10 cm) fence post about 3 ft (0.91 m) from your coop so you can place a gate there. Use a shovel or a post digger to make a hole that is 6 in (15 cm) on each side. Make sure your fence posts are at least 7 ft (2.1 m) tall. Place a 2 in (5.1 cm) layer of gravel on the bottom of the hole to protect the post's end from moisture. Opt for a rot-resistant wood like cedar or white oak for your fence posts and supports. Set the post in the hole and pack the soil back in. Hold the pole firmly while you fill it back in with the dirt you removed. Compact the dirt with the bottom of your shovel or with your foot around the entire post. Use the extra dirt to form a mound around the bottom of the post to keep it in place. Make concrete to fill your hole to keep your post from rotting in the future if you want. Space the other fence posts 6 to 8 ft (1.8 to 2.4 m) from one another. Use a tape measure to make sure the fence posts are equal distances apart so your chicken run has even support. Make sure the posts on opposite sides are in line with one another. Dig a hole and place the posts until they're all set. If your run is larger than 10 ft (3.0 m) wide, put a fence post inside the run for an added support beam. Make sure the post is in line with the outer posts on each side. Saw the tops of the fence posts to the same height if they aren't on level ground. Use a handsaw and a level so all of your posts are the same height. Make your chicken run at least 6 ft (1.8 m) tall so you can easily walk inside. Attach 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) boards across the top of the run. Run the boards horizontally so they go from one fence post on one side to a post on the other side. Use a drill with the screwdriver bit attached to attach 3 in (7.6 cm) wood screws to the top of the fence posts. If you have supports in the middle of your run, make sure to attach screws to them as well. Use 1⁄2 to 1 in (1.3 to 2.5 cm) welded wire to keep out predators. Calculate the area of fencing you need by measuring the height and length of one side of your run and multiplying them together. Add 4 inches (10 cm) to each height measurement as excess. Repeat this for each side as well as the top of the run and add the areas together to find the total amount of fencing you need. Fencing can be purchased at your local hardware or farm animal care stores. The wire is small enough so raccoons, foxes, and weasels are kept out of your run and coop. If you have larger predators in your area, such as bears, use a chain link dog fence wrapped in smaller welded wires to protect your birds. Fencing on top of the chicken run will help protect your flock from owls, hawks, and other predatory birds. Dig a 4 in (10 cm) deep trench around the perimeter of your run. Use a shovel to dig your trench. Place the bottom of your fence in the trench on the outside of the fence posts and fill the dirt back in. Having your fence below the ground will protect your flock from digging animals like foxes and coyotes. Staple the fence every 6 in (15 cm) to the fence posts. Wrap the fence horizontally around the outside of the fence posts. Use a staple gun or a hammer to drive U-shaped staples into the fence posts. Place the staple in the middle of the post so that the ends of the staple go into 2 different links. Leave a gap in the fencing where you plan to hang your gate. Lay the fence on top of the run. Use a ladder to reach the top of your run and cover the entire area with fencing to keep out flying or climbing predators, like hawks or raccoons. Staple the fence on top of the posts you've set in the ground to secure it. Frame your fence with 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) boards to secure it. First, screw horizontal supports on the top, middle, and bottom of each fence post so the fence is sandwiched between the wood. Use your drill and wood screws to keep the boards in place and make sure they are flush with one another. Then add boards vertically between the horizontal supports by screwing them in every 1 ft (30 cm). Install a gate with a spring so the door shuts automatically. Attach 2 hinges 18 in (46 cm) from the top and bottom of the fence post with screws and a drill. Hang the door so the bottom is flush with the ground. Screw in the hinges on the side of the door to attach it. Hook one end of a hooked spring to the fencing on the gate and the other end to the fencing of your run. Gate doors can be purchased or built on your own. Make sure the door opens out from the run. Otherwise, the spring won't force the door closed. Make sure the spring is tight and unstretched. This way, the gate will snap back into place after it's been opened. Line the bottom of the run with straw or a bedding alternative. Spread chopped straw evenly on the ground of the run so your chickens feel comfortable while they are outside. Alternatives to straw are leaves, construction-grade sand, or wood shavings. Chopped straw can be purchased at your local farm care store. Rake your leaves into the run in the fall once they start to fall for free outdoor bedding. Change the bedding once it starts to smell or once it looks soiled. Place a container of food and water inside the run. Cover the top of the feeder with foil so your chickens can't get into it and so it is protected from the elements. Hang a chicken waterer from one of the supports on the top of your run with an eye-bolt so they water stays clean. If your coop has enough space, keep your food and water inside to protect it from the elements and mold. Make sure the chickens all can fit comfortably inside along with them.

Create at least 10 sq ft (0.93 m2) of outdoor space per chicken. Plan the layout of your run next to your chicken coop. Keep the run in the shade in warmer climates. Let the run get full sun in cooler climates. Dig a hole 12 in (30 cm) deep for your first fence post. Set the post in the hole and pack the soil back in. Space the other fence posts 6 to 8 ft (1.8 to 2.4 m) from one another. Attach 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) boards across the top of the run. Use 1⁄2 to 1 in (1.3 to 2.5 cm) welded wire to keep out predators. Dig a 4 in (10 cm) deep trench around the perimeter of your run. Staple the fence every 6 in (15 cm) to the fence posts. Lay the fence on top of the run. Frame your fence with 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) boards to secure it. Install a gate with a spring so the door shuts automatically. Line the bottom of the run with straw or a bedding alternative. Place a container of food and water inside the run.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Glow-in-the-Dark-Stepping-Stones

How to Make Glow in the Dark Stepping Stones

To make glow in the dark stepping stones, start by washing your stones with soapy water so you have a clean surface for the paint to adhere to. Next, spray paint the stones with glow-in-the-dark paint, taking care to follow the instructions on the can so the stones get enough drying time between coats. When you've applied all of your coats of paint, leave the paint to cure, which can take several hours. Finally, place your stepping stones in a dark area to show off their glow, such as a path through a garden.

Clean the stones. If you are applying paint, you need a clean surface to start with. Dust and dirt under the paint will cause problems with adhesion and you will end up with flaky paint. Wipe each stone down with soap and water. Then, wipe each stone down with a rag dipped either in water, acetone, or isopropyl alcohol. Let the stones dry before applying paint. Apply the paint. You can apply glow-in-the-dark paint in 2 common ways. You can buy spray paint and spray the stones, or you can brush the paint on. If you use spray paint, follow the directions on the can regarding time between coats and the distance the nozzle should be from the stone. If you use a brush on paint, make sure that you follow instructions regarding the drying time between coats. Allow the paint to dry. Once the paint has been applied, it will need to dry. The final dry (known as curing) will take longer than the dry times between your coats. This is because all of the solvent (the chemicals that keep the paint in liquid form) must evaporate. Avoid smudging the paint or getting it dirty before the curing process is over. Depending on the type of paint used, curing can take anywhere from several minutes to hours. Consult the instructions on the can. Place your stones. Find a good location to place your glow in the dark stones. Keep in mind that any night time lights (e.g. a porch light) will make the glow less prominent. For the most impressive glow, put the stones in a dark, open path (e.g. through a garden). Observe the stones at night. Once your paint has cured, let the stone sit in the sun all day. The paint should absorb energy from the sun. It will slowly release this energy as light (much less intense than the original sunlight), which you will be able to see in the dark. Street lights and yard lights may make the stones seem less impressive. Open a bag of concrete. You can place the whole bag of concrete into a wheelbarrow. Use a spade to break the bottom of the bag open, and lift the bag up. The concrete should spill out into the wheelbarrow. You may have to shake the bag a bit to get it all out. Mix glow powder into the concrete. Glow powder is a special chemical that is designed to absorb energy from the sun through the day. You can find powders that are made to be compatible with concrete at your local hardware store. While the ratios vary, most manufacturers recommend that you create a dry mix of 85% concrete and 15% glow powder. For example, if you had a total of 10 gallons (38 L) of mix, 8.5 gallons (32 L) would be concrete and 1.5 gallons (5.7 L) would be glow powder. Choose a powder with earth aluminate versus one with a zinc base for the best illumination. Add water. Consult the concrete bag to know how much water is needed. Pour the water in slowly, mixing as you go. When you are finished, your concrete should be a wet sludge-like consistency. Pour concrete into molds. Find or make a mold that is the size and shape that you want your stepping stones. Lightly coat the inside of each mold with petroleum jelly to make removing the stones easier. Mark the fill point on each mold so every stepping stone is the same thickness. Pour the concrete into each mold, then tap the edges of the molds to remove air bubbles and help the concrete settle. Make sure you have as many molds as you wish to have stepping stones—the concrete in the wheelbarrow will dry up before you get to pour a second round. Allow the concrete to dry. For the fastest dry times, leave the molds in a dry, relatively warm place. It can still take 24 hours or longer for the concrete to completely dry. If you disturb the concrete before it is dry, you can cause cracks and other imperfections in your stones. Break open the molds. If you used a reusable mold, use a knife or other prying tool to loosen the concrete. If your mold was disposable, you can just break the mold away from the concrete. Now, your stones are ready to set wherever you want them. Use stencils for painted stones. One of the easiest ways to customize paint is by using a stencil. Lay the stencil down on the stone you wish to paint, and then paint over it. Any area uncovered by the stencil will be painted, and any area covered will not. The contrast between the painted and not painted areas will give your stone a clear, visible design. Set trinkets or small objects into concrete stones. If you are making concrete stones, you can place things in the concrete. As the concrete dries, it will harden around these objects. Once the concrete has fully hardened, the objects you added will be held in place. You can place things like small pebbles, trinkets, small yard decorations, or personal items in the concrete. Clean the items with a mild soap solution and a small brush so you can clearly see the details. Make a cast with concrete stones. While the concrete is still soft, you can use an object to indent the surface of the stone. This will leave an impression in the concrete and create a cast. Most commonly, this is done by placing your hand in the wet mix and creating a stone that has a cast of your handprints.

Clean the stones. Apply the paint. Allow the paint to dry. Place your stones. Observe the stones at night. Open a bag of concrete. Mix glow powder into the concrete. Add water. Pour concrete into molds. Allow the concrete to dry. Break open the molds. Use stencils for painted stones. Set trinkets or small objects into concrete stones. Make a cast with concrete stones.

https://www.wikihow.com/Wash-Wicker-Furniture

How to Wash Wicker Furniture

Wicker furniture is easy to clean, but it's important to use the right materials, since it can be fragile. Dust your furniture with a feather duster or a soft brush, which will get into the crevices between the weave. If the wicker is dirty, wipe it gently with a damp cloth or sponge. Only use soap for tough stains that you can't get out with water. Try to use as little water as possible, since too much moisture can damage the wicker over time. Make sure you let your furniture dry before replacing any cushions or sitting on it so moisture doesn't get trapped. This can take a couple of days, but you can speed up the process with a hair dryer or leaving it out in the sun.

Wipe with a damp cloth or sponge. Use a soft cloth and water to gently wipe down all surfaces of wicker to remove dirt and retain shine. Try using a mild soap on your cloth or sponge for more stubborn dirt and stains on your wicker, but follow by wiping with just water afterwards. You can also add salt to water as a non-abrasive way to gently scrub away dirt and stains. Add a mixture of one part white vinegar to three parts water on your cloth if you need to eliminate mold or mildew built up on the wicker. Wash cushions separately. Remove any cushions or other material that is not made of wicker and clean separately. Check to see if cushions have a tag with care instructions. You may be able to put the entire cushion, or a removable cover, into a washing machine. When in doubt, opt for gently dabbing at cushion fabric with a damp cloth and a small amount of gentle soap or stain remover. Hose down outdoor wicker furniture. Wipe outdoor furniture with a wet cloth or sponge and soap, then rinse with a hose. Never hose down paper fiber wicker, as it will easily be destroyed by a large amount of water. Washing should mainly be done with care on natural reed or synthetic wicker. If possible, tilt your piece of furniture so that any area with a tighter weave of the wicker is on top. This way, water will run down from it to the looser weave, where it can be wiped away or dried more easily without keeping moisture trapped inside the weave. Steam-clean outdoor wicker furniture with a hand steam-cleaner if it is very dirty. Make sure that you dry the wicker right away with a hair dryer or full sun and wind to avoid the wicker warping or bending. Let the wicker dry. Ensure that the wicker is fully dry after washing and before replacing cushions or using the furniture again. Keep the furniture in a dry place indoors, outside in the sun in dry conditions, or use a fan or hairdryer at some distance away from the wicker to accelerate drying. Keep the shape of the wicker as best as possible. Avoid sitting or placing any objects on the furniture before it is completely dry, as the wicker may form a new shape when wet. Expect to wait several days for the wicker to dry entirely. Dust with a feather duster or dry cloth. Use a microfiber duster, soft cloth, or feather duster to remove any dust or dirt that has accumulated on the surface. Try a duster with small nubs, feathers, or texture that will help get into the small cracks of the wicker weave. Vacuum with a brush attachment. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment on the hose to gently remove dust from on and inside the weave of your wicker. Make sure the vacuum is at a low suction setting to avoid damage, and brush it gently across the surface of the wicker. For larger dirt, dust, or other objects stuck in the wicker, try using a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers to remove it. Use a soft brush. Remove dust and dirt from between the weave of your wicker by sweeping a cleaning brush gently across the surface. Try a paintbrush or even a toothbrush for smaller, hard-to-reach areas. Make sure to use any brush lightly, so as not to disrupt or dislodge any of the wicker. Avoid steel wool or any brush with stiff bristles, as these can damage natural wicker or remove lacquer, paint, or weatherproofing from treated wicker. Wash as little as possible. Apply water to your furniture only when strictly necessary, sticking to dusting and vacuuming regularly when dust and dirt appear. A more thorough hose-down cleaning should only be needed about once a year, if that. Do wash away spills and stains as soon as possible with a damp cloth and mild soap, as wicker will absorb any spilled moisture. Use as little water as possible when you do need to use it, as more moisture will only damage the wicker further over time. Apply a lacquer to the wicker. Protect your furniture from damage by using a varnish, lacquer, or wax meant for use on wicker. Apply it in a thin layer with a brush or cloth, or in a spray form if possible. Try linseed oil or lemon oil as a natural method to help protect the wicker and boost its shine. Use a lacquer specifically meant for weatherproofing if you intend to start or continue using the wicker furniture outside. Repair wicker with wood glue. Apply a small amount of wood glue to any slats of the wicker that appear broken or fraying. You can also trim pieces of wicker that are frayed or broken and sticking out by using a pair of scissors to cut them away as cleanly as possible. Avoid pulling at any errant pieces. If damage is more extensive, you may need to take the furniture in to a professional, or replace it completely. Keep outdoor furniture out of the elements. Avoid direct sunlight, rain, snow, or heavy wind on your outdoor wicker furniture whenever possible. Cover or place your wicker furniture under a roof, deck, or canopy while not in use. You can also bring wicker furniture inside, if possible, to help preserve its life. Care for indoor furniture should also be taken by controlling humidity as best as possible. Use a humidifier in dry climates to avoid drying and cracking wicker, and use a dehumidifier or place wicker furniture in a room with good air circulation if in a very humid environment. Finished.

Wipe with a damp cloth or sponge. Wash cushions separately. Hose down outdoor wicker furniture. Let the wicker dry. Dust with a feather duster or dry cloth. Vacuum with a brush attachment. Use a soft brush. Wash as little as possible. Apply a lacquer to the wicker. Repair wicker with wood glue. Keep outdoor furniture out of the elements. Finished.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Gel-Alcohol-Hand-Sanitizer

How to Make Gel Alcohol Hand Sanitizer

To make your own gel alcohol hand sanitizer, all you need are rubbing alcohol and plain aloe vera gel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hand sanitizer needs to contain at least 60% alcohol in order to be effective. To make sure your hand sanitizer has enough alcohol in it, use rubbing alcohol that's at least 91%. Combine ⅔ cup (160 mL) of the rubbing alcohol with ⅓ cup (80 mL) of the aloe vera gel in a bowl, and stir the ingredients together with a spoon. Add 10 drops of essential oil if you'd like your hand sanitizer to have a fragrance. Then, use a funnel to pour your hand sanitizer into a bottle. To use your hand sanitizer, pour some into the palm of your hand and rub the hand sanitizer all over your hands until your hands are dry. Washing your hands with soap and water is the most effective way to kill germs, so only use hand sanitizer when you're on the go.

Obtain your ingredients. The components needed to make gel alcohol hand sanitizer are common household products, so it's quite possible that you already have them. If you don't, you can obtain them easily at any drug or grocery store. You will need rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol that is at a minimum 91% pure and plain aloe vera gel. That's it! To be comparable to store-bought products like Purell or Germ-X in terms of effectiveness, the final product needs to be at least 65% alcohol. Using 91% isopropyl alcohol will place your final product within that range. If you can find 99% isopropyl alcohol, choose that. It's not required, but it will increase the germ-killing effectiveness of your final product. Aloe vera gel also comes in a variety of purity options. You'll want the purest that you can find – simply check out the label to get the purity information. This doesn't alter the effectiveness of the product, but using the purest you can find will ensure that your final mixture contains the least amount of additives and additional chemicals. Gather your tools. The tools needed are also very common household items, which makes this process even easier! You'll need a clean bowl, a spatula (or spoon), a funnel, and a recycled liquid soap or hand sanitizer bottle. If you don't have an empty bottle on hand to upcycle, you can use any kind of container you want, as long as it has a lid. Combine the ingredients. Measure out ⁄ 4 cup (180 ml) of isopropyl alcohol and ⁄ 4 cup (59 ml) of plain aloe vera gel and dump both of them together into the bowl. Use your spatula (or spoon) to stir vigorously until the ingredients are fully mixed together. If you'd prefer not to mix by hand in a bowl, you can use your food processor instead. Bottle your product. Use the funnel to pour the mixture directly from the bowl into the bottle you've chosen to use. Replace the pump, lid, or cap on your bottle. Now you have your finished product and it's ready to use immediately! The mixture will keep for 6 months or more. Store it away from direct sunlight to get the longest shelf life possible. Put the mixture in smaller bottles that can easily fit into a purse, backpack, or briefcase for use on the go. If you purchase any commercial sanitizers, save the bottles so that you can upcycle them later, since those are perfect for this. You can usually purchase new empty bottles of this size at the grocery store. Check the aisle with travel-size personal care items. Use the sanitizer correctly. There is actually a proper way to use sanitizer to get maximum effectiveness from the product. Before you start, make sure your hands are clean of visible dirt and grime. Sanitizer isn't meant for situations when you find your hands dirty with actual dirt. Using about a palm-sized amount of the sanitizer, rub your hands briskly together for 20 to 30 seconds, taking care to get underneath your fingernails, between your fingers, the back of your hands and your wrists. Allow the sanitizer to dry completely, without wiping your hands off or rinsing them with water. Once the sanitizer dries completely, the process is complete. Determine your goal(s) for adding essential oils. Essential oils can be added to your sanitizer for the fragrance. Choose essential oils for aromatherapy. Though there is no strong evidence, some people think that inhaling the scent of a particular essential oil can cause a variety of mental and emotional reactions. By adding them to your hand sanitizer, you may find some positive effects from smelling these fragrances. You can choose one oil or combine oils to create different scents. Some essential oils are most commonly employed for use in hand sanitizers than others. Cinnamon essential oil is said to reduce drowsiness and enhance concentration. Lavender essential oil may induce relaxation and feelings of calmness. Rosemary essential oil has been thought to boost information retention, alertness, and memory. Lemon essential oil has an uplifting scent that may help ease sadness while also boosting energy. Peppermint essential oil is an invigorating scent that some people find can help soothe frazzled nerves and improve mental clarity. Use caution. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can have negative side effects if used improperly. Pregnant women and those with immune deficiencies shouldn't use them without consulting a doctor first. If you're new to the world of essential oils, do a skin patch test before adding it to your hand sanitizer and using it topically. Never apply an essential oil directly to the skin without diluting it first. Because they are so concentrated, some of them can be skin irritants. When working with essential oils, use the highest grade products that you can find. Check the label for terms like “pure grade”, “aromatherapy grade”, “certified organic” and “therapeutic grade” when purchasing. Add your chosen oils to your sanitizer. Measure out 2/3 cup of isopropyl alcohol and 1/3 cup of plain aloe vera gel and dump both of them together into the bowl. Add ten drops of your chosen essential oil(s). Do not exceed 10 drops! Use your spatula (or spoon) to stir vigorously until all of the ingredients are fully mixed together. Obtain your ingredients. Most of the components needed to make the hand sanitizer are common household products, so it's quite possible that you already have most of them. Start with a bottle of 190-proof grain alcohol, such as Everclear, which is 95% alcohol. Since your hand sanitizer needs to be at least 65% alcohol to be effective, using a high-proof liquor will ensure you get the strength you need. In addition, you'll need plain aloe vera gel, and any essential oils you'd like to use. Always double-check the alcohol content before you buy a bottle of grain alcohol since many commercial brands are less than 190-proof. Remember you may dilute the strength of the alcohol with other ingredients, so it will not maintain 95% alcohol content. The essential oils you choose are completely up to you. Lavender, lemon, peppermint, geranium, cinnamon, tea tree, and rosemary are common choices. You can use more than one if you like, but the total amount of essential oil you use should not exceed 10 drops. Aloe vera gel also comes in a variety of purity options. You'll want the purest that you can find – simply check out the label to get the purity information. Gather your tools. You'll need a clean bowl, a spatula (or spoon), a funnel and a recycled liquid soap or hand sanitizer bottle. If you don't have an empty bottle on hand to upcycle, you can use any kind of container you want, as long as it has a lid. Combine the ingredients. Measure out 2  fl oz (59 ml) of grain alcohol and 1  fl oz (30 ml) of plain aloe vera gel and dump both of them together in the bowl. Add ten drops of your chosen essential oil(s). Use your spatula (or spoon) to stir vigorously until the ingredients are fully mixed together. You can adjust the amount of the products that you're using if you'd like, but keep the grain alcohol at a 2-to-1 ratio with the gel to ensure it's strong enough. If you'd prefer not to mix by hand in a bowl, you can use your food processor instead. Bottle your product. Use the funnel to pour the mixture directly from the bowl into the bottle you've chosen to use. Replace the pump, lid, or cap on your bottle. Now you have your finished product and its ready-to-use immediately! Use the mixture within one month. Store it out of direct sunlight.

Obtain your ingredients. Gather your tools. Combine the ingredients. Bottle your product. Use the sanitizer correctly. Determine your goal(s) for adding essential oils. Choose essential oils for aromatherapy. Use caution. Add your chosen oils to your sanitizer. Obtain your ingredients. Gather your tools. Combine the ingredients. Bottle your product.

https://www.wikihow.com/Dye-Hair-with-Kool-Aid

How to Dye Hair with Kool Aid

To dye your hair with Kool-Aid, start by mixing Kool-Aid powder, conditioner, and a little hot water in a bowl to make a paste. You can adjust the number of Kool-Aid packets you use based on how vibrant you want your hair color to be. Then, divide your hair into sections to make it easier to work with, and apply the Kool-Aid paste to each section. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends. Once your hair is completely covered, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it sit for 15 minutes to 5 hours, depending on how saturated you want the color to be. When you're ready, rinse out the paste with cold water, and you're done!

Wear disposable gloves to prevent staining your hands. If you're not careful, you'll be left with hands that match your hair color! To avoid this, slip on a pair of rubber kitchen gloves or disposable latex gloves to keep the dye from soaking into your skin. If you do stain part of your skin, there are a few ways to remove the Kool-Aid stains. Select your desired color of Kool-Aid. Choose your favorite color, or mix 2 together to create a custom color. Grape can create a lovely violet purple. Tropical punch creates a brighter red while cherry produces a deeper red. In the cooler spectrum, blue raspberry results in blue and lime creates a bright green. Mixed berry can result in a light blue. Note that the colors can appear differently on different hair types and base colors. For instance, grape Kool-Aid will leave a light pinkish violet on light blonde hair when left on for just 30 minutes. However, grape Kool-Aid will show up as a deep reddish purple on dark brown hair after 1 hour. If you have brown hair, vibrant reds usually show up the best. You can also try deep purple and dark blue! You won't be able to get a lighter color than your natural shade without first bleaching your hair , though. Empty 1 or more sugar-free Kool-Aid packet(s) into a small bowl. If you have very long hair, or if you want a heavily saturated hue, use 2 or more packets. The unsweetened version will be much less sticky than the artificially sweetened kind, enabling you to apply the dye more evenly and smoothly. If you're not sure how your hair will take to the dye, start with just 1 packet. You can always follow up with another dye session using a few more packets to build up the color. If you're mixing colors, stir together 2 packets. For instance, try black cherry mixed with strawberry for a vibrant red, or strawberry and grape for red-violet. You could also try blue raspberry and lemon-lime to create turquoise. Stir in hot water to dissolve the powder. Start by pouring 1 to 2 US tbsp (15 to 30 mL) of hot water into the bowl. Mix together the water and powder, stirring constantly with a spoon until the powder dissolves. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of water per packet of Kool-Aid. Try not to add too much water, or else the mixture will get too runny to paint onto your hair. Add hair conditioner to the mixture to form a creamy paste. Once the Kool-Aid is completely dissolved, squeeze a dollop of hair conditioner into the bowl and mix it in. Start with ⁄ 4   c (59 mL) of conditioner and adjust the measurements until a creamy paste forms. The creamy consistency of your dye paste will make the dye easier to handle and apply to your hair. Plus the conditioner will help the dye spread through your hair. Cover your shoulders and workspace with an old towel. The dye will stain your clothes, so keep yourself protected with an old towel or t-shirt that you don't mind getting stained. Consider wrapping a large garbage bag around your shoulders and clipping it in place to keep any moisture from getting through. Also protect your workspace with another towel or garbage bag in case any dye drips onto your chair, the table, or the floor. Divide your hair into 3 to 6 sections. Start with clean, dry hair and use clips or hair ties to pull back parts of your hair. For even coverage, divide your hair into multiple smaller sections which you'll apply the dye to. Try dividing your hair vertically into left and right segments, and then dividing each of these into 3 horizontal sections (top, middle, and bottom). Alternatively, divide your hair into left, right, and center sections and work your way from side to side. Or, start by exposing the hair at the nape of your neck and piling the rest of your hair up at your crown. Pull out small sections as you work your way from your nape up to your crown. Paint the Kool-Aid paste onto each section of hair, from the roots to the tips. Either use gloved hands or a hair dye brush to apply the dye paste onto your hair. Start with 1 section and massage or paint the dye into your roots. Then spread the dye down the strands, all the way to the tips, until the first section is completely coated. Tie back each dyed section and proceed until all sections are evenly coated. All of your hair must be saturated with dye otherwise the powder will just wash out, without coloring your hair. If you're dyeing your own hair, you might want to enlist the help of a friend. It can be hard to evenly coat the hair at the back of your head. Wrap your hair in saran wrap. Secure the hair at your crown with hair clips. Wind a few long sections of saran wrap around your hair to hold it in place, off of your face and shoulders. Alternatively, try a plastic grocery bag or resealable food storage bag. The plastic will help trap in the moisture and prevent the dye from spreading and staining. Secure the plastic wrap with tape for extra hold. This step is especially useful if you plan to leave the dye on your hair for a few hours. Wait anywhere between 15 minutes and 5 hours for the desired saturation. If you have very light, fine hair and just want a subtle tint in your hair, leave the dye on for 15 or 30 minutes. But if you have darker or thicker hair, or if you want a deeply saturated dye job, wait a few hours before removing the dye. If you've used more Kool-Aid packets, it's ok to leave the dye on for a shorter amount of time. Rinse the Kool-Aid dye paste out of your hair with cold running water. Remove the saran wrap and turn on cool running water in a shower or sink. Rinse all of your hair, from the roots to the tips, under the water until all of the dye paste is washed out. Continue rinsing your hair until the water runs clear (or just a pale tint is left). It may take between 10 and 20 minutes to get the water to run clear. Warm or hot water may more quickly wash out some of the pigment from your newly-dyed strands. Don't use shampoo when you rinse out the dye. This could wash out and fade some of the color. Blow-dry or air-dry your freshly dyed hair to see the final results. Remove all the moisture from your hair, either with a hairdryer or by letting it dry naturally. Once your strands are completely dry, you'll be able to see the final results of the Kool-Aid dye! Have fun styling and rocking your new 'do. To make your temporary color last as long as possible, wash your hair in cold water instead of hot water. It's ok to use warm water and heat styling tools, but keep in mind that the heat will cause the dye to fade faster. You may need to experiment with the dye process a few times to get the balance right for your hair color. Just remember that if you have darker hair, the effects will be more subtle. Lay a piece of saran wrap or aluminum foil behind 1 section of hair. When you're ready to start dyeing your clean and dry hair, lift up a small section of hair and lay a rectangular piece of saran wrap or foil behind it. Place the wrap or foil right at the root of your hair and use your hand to support it from behind. Think about how many streaks you want to add to your hair, and cut out 1 piece of saran wrap or foil for each streak before you get started. If you're creating narrow highlights, try picking up and painting a few thin strands on the same piece of saran wrap or foil. Use a highlighting brush to paint 1 in (2.5 cm) sections of hair with Kool-Aid dye. Pick up a dollop of the pre-mixed Kool-Aid dye paste with the brush and apply it directly to your hair. Brush it on, working from the roots to the tips, until the whole section is covered. Support the strands from behind with your hand that's beneath the piece of saran wrap or foil. Fold the piece of saran wrap or foil around the dye-coated strand. To prevent the dye from getting onto other parts of your hair, fold the saran wrap or foil tightly around each dyed strand. If your hair is longer than the piece of wrap or foil, fold up the tips of your hair into a little bundle close to your roots before folding up the foil. Secure each wrapped section with a hair pin or hair tie. Once you've painted strand of hair and encased in saran wrap or foil, flip it up so it sits off of the under layers of hair. Slide on a hair pin onto the base or middle of the little packet of hair to secure it at your crown. If you're using saran wrap, try using a hair tie to create little bundles out of each section. Continue painting dye onto small sections of hair until you have enough streaks. The easiest way to add streaks is to start at your crown and pin back each foil-wrapped section as you work down your head. Once you've completed as many streaks as you want, double-check that all the wrapped sections are secure. If you have a lot of streaks, consider wrapping your hair in a plastic bag or with a few long pieces of saran wrap to hold them in place while you wait. Leave the dye on your hair for between 15 minutes and 5 hours. Depending on the natural color and thickness of your hair and the deepness of the color you want to achieve, leave the dye on for as long as you want. If you want a really saturated hue, leave the dye on for 5 hours. If you have light hair and you just want a light tint, don't leave the dye on for longer than 1 hour. Rinse the dye out of your hair under cold running water. When you're ready to rinse out the dye, unwrap each strand with gloved hands and discard the pieces of saran wrap or foil. Then use cool running water to rinse out your strands until the water runs clear. Add 3 to 4 unsweetened Kool-Aid packets to 2  c (470 mL) of hot water. Instead of making a creamy paste that you'll paint onto your hair, you'll create a dye bath in which you'll dip the ends of your hair. Empty the Kool-Aid packets into a bowl of hot water and stir to dissolve the powder. Allow the water to cool slightly, for around 3 to 5 minutes. Choose whichever Kool-Aid color you want, or mix 2 together for a custom shade. Use more packets for more saturated color, especially if you have dark hair. Part your hair down the middle to create 2 pigtail sections. Make sure your hair is clean and dry before you dye it. As you're waiting for the water to cool, divide your hair into 2 sections, a right and a left section. Put 1 section in front of each shoulder, and use a hair tie to secure each section into pigtails. Dip the ends of each pigtail into the dye bath. Keep your strands submerged in the bowl of Kool-Aid dye for about 15 to 30 minutes. If you have darker hair or want a deeper color, leave your hair in the dye bath longer. But if you have light or fine hair, 15 minutes might be enough to give your ends a bright pop of color. Try dipping your hair into the dye bath a few times for a deeper color. This also helps if you want to create a softer division between your dip-dyed ends and the rest of your hair. Scrunch your damp strands with a paper towel to remove the excess liquid. Once the time is up, pull your pigtails out of the dye bath and squeeze the excess liquid back into the bowl. Use a paper towel to squeeze the remaining moisture from your hair. Make sure you're still wearing gloves during this process, as the Kool-Aid can stain your hands. Wrap the strands in a plastic bag if you want to let the dye soak in longer. For a richer color, or for darker hair, let the dye seep into your strands for a while longer. Use a hair tie to secure the plastic bag or a long strand of saran wrap around your dip-dyed ends. This will hold in some of the moisture while the dye permeates your hair. Keep this in place for up to 2 hours, or until your strands start to get dry. If you want to leave the dye on for up to 5 hours, the method of painting on a dye paste containing hair conditioner would be a better choice. Conditioner keeps the dye from drying out, whereas the dye bath liquid will evaporate after a short while. Rinse out your hair until the cool water runs clear. Without using any shampoo, rinse your hair thoroughly under cool water to remove all of the dye. Keep rinsing for about 10 or 20 minutes until the water runs clear, or very close to clear. Once the dye is rinsed off, air-dry or blow-dry your hair to see the final results.

Wear disposable gloves to prevent staining your hands. Select your desired color of Kool-Aid. Empty 1 or more sugar-free Kool-Aid packet(s) into a small bowl. Stir in hot water to dissolve the powder. Add hair conditioner to the mixture to form a creamy paste. Cover your shoulders and workspace with an old towel. Divide your hair into 3 to 6 sections. Paint the Kool-Aid paste onto each section of hair, from the roots to the tips. Wrap your hair in saran wrap. Wait anywhere between 15 minutes and 5 hours for the desired saturation. Rinse the Kool-Aid dye paste out of your hair with cold running water. Blow-dry or air-dry your freshly dyed hair to see the final results. Lay a piece of saran wrap or aluminum foil behind 1 section of hair. Use a highlighting brush to paint 1 in (2.5 cm) sections of hair with Kool-Aid dye. Fold the piece of saran wrap or foil around the dye-coated strand. Secure each wrapped section with a hair pin or hair tie. Continue painting dye onto small sections of hair until you have enough streaks. Leave the dye on your hair for between 15 minutes and 5 hours. Rinse the dye out of your hair under cold running water. Add 3 to 4 unsweetened Kool-Aid packets to 2  c (470 mL) of hot water. Part your hair down the middle to create 2 pigtail sections. Dip the ends of each pigtail into the dye bath. Scrunch your damp strands with a paper towel to remove the excess liquid. Wrap the strands in a plastic bag if you want to let the dye soak in longer. Rinse out your hair until the cool water runs clear.

https://www.wikihow.com/Light-a-Candle

How to Light a Candle

"Before lighting a candle, place the candle on a heat-resistant surface and trim the wick to about ⅛ of an inch. Next, light a match or use a barbecue or cigarette lighter. Alternatively, light the end of a piece of uncooked spaghetti by using the flame from a gas stove. Then, tilt the candle sideways to prevent the flames from coming up towards your hand. Finally, hold the flame to the wick, and remove it once the wick ignites. "

Move your candle to a good area. You should put your candle on a surface that's heat resistant, such as stone. That way, you won't risk catching the surface on fire. In addition, make sure the candle is in an area without drafts, as drafts can push the flame out from the candle, causing a fire. It's also a good idea to remove anything flammable near the candle, such as papers, fabric, or dried floral decorations. Make sure the candle is at least a foot from curtains. Pull out a match. You can use regular-sized matches if the candle isn't too deep. If it is, you may need a fireplace match. Hold the end of the match between your finger-tips, so it has plenty of room to burn. If the candle is too big, you can also use a piece of spaghetti or fettuccine. If you don't have matches, you can use a toothpick, as well, but you'll need to move more quickly as the flame can move faster. Trim the wick. If the wick is too long, it presents a potential hazard. The wick should be about 1/8th of an inch long before burning. You can use scissors or a wick trimmer to cut it. Light the match. Strike the match on the side of the box to light it. If you're using a piece of spaghetti, you can light it from the match. If you don't have a match or lighter, you can use a gas stove to light it from the flame. You can also light a toothpick this way. You also press the end of the spaghetti against the heating element in a toaster or even the oven to light it. Just be sure to be extra careful not to touch any of the hot parts yourself. Turn the candle sideways. Turning the candle sideways helps keep you from getting burned. Since flames burn upwards, if you try to put your hand down in the candle, the flame is coming up towards your hand. When the candle is sideways, you can stick the match in sideways, and the flame will go up towards the side of the candle instead of your hand. While you don't want to move too slowly, as a flame goes down a match quickly, you also don't want to jerk too quickly and drop the match. Move in at a steady pace. Hold the flame to the wick. Once you've got the match or spaghetti in the candle, hold the flame up to the wick sticking out. Watch to see when the wick ignites. When it does, remove your hand, and blow out the spaghetti or match. Set the candle back upright. For extra safety, run some water on the match or spaghetti before throwing it in the trash. Stay with the candle. While the candle is lit, it's important to stay with it. If you leave it unattended, you run the risk of catching something on fire. Make sure your candle is in a good place. Put on something heat resistant, so it doesn't catch the area on fire. Also, remove anything flammable from the area, such as paper. In addition, make sure your candle isn't too near curtains or anything else that could blow into it. Also, feel for drafts, as drafts can blow the flame to something flammable. Cut the wick. Your wick should be about 1/8th of an inch long. Cut it back to this height, as a long wick can be a safety issue. If you don't have a wick trimmer, just use scissors. Get out your barbecue lighter. These lighters are not cigarette lighters. They have a long barrel, meant for lighting a barbecue grill. You can find these in the barbecue section, but you'll also find them with other lighters. You can use a cigarette lighter on a shallow candle, but it won't work well on a deeper candle, as you're likely to burn yourself. Tilt the candle a bit. With a longer barrel, you probably won't need to turn it completely sideways, but tilting it can help you light it. Hold the candle in your non-dominant hand and the lighter in your dominant hand. If the candle is short enough to use a cigarette lighter, you won't need to tilt it much at all. Flick the lighter on. Adjust the flame height by moving the button on the side or top. Turn it towards the "-" to make the flame smaller. Also, most lighters have a safety that you need to push before you squeeze the trigger. Hold it down while you squeeze the trigger. Squeeze the trigger slowly, as the trigger starts the fuel. If you go too quickly, it won't reach the spark when it should to create a flame, meaning it may seem like it's not working. You need to hold the trigger down to keep the flame going. With a cigarette lighter, you usually need to turn the wheel before you can push the button. It's a move you do in one fell swoop with your thumb. Hold the lighter to the wick. Put the flame in the candle. Let the flame go against the tip of the wick. Watch to see when it ignites, then pull the lighter away. Let go of the trigger to put the flame out, and set the candle upright on the surface. Always pay attention to your burning candle. Don't leave it alone, as it can easily be blown into something flammable. You could have a fire before you know it. Don't trim the wick the first time. Some people say that trimming the wick the first time you use a candle causes it to burn unevenly. A larger flame can help start the wax melting properly. However, always supervise the burn carefully. Let it burn enough the first time. Your candle should burn for an hour for every inch it is in diameter, at least for the first time. Therefore, if you measure four inches across the top of the candle, that means it needs to burn for four hours. The purpose is that you want to make sure the whole top layer of the candle melts. If it doesn't, you'll get a tunneling effect as the candle burns down. In other words, it will just melt down the center of the candle, instead of melting the whole candle. Doing it this way will help you burn your candle more evenly. Don't burn it for short stretches. To prevent tunneling after you burn it the first time, you should burn it for longer stretches at a time rather than shorter. Shorter stretches won't melt the wax all the way to the edges like you want. Use the foil trick. Take a piece of foil folded over several times, and wrap it around the top of the candle. Tip it slightly over the top of the candle, forming a small lip. You can do it while the candle is light, though the top will be hot. Otherwise, light it after you put the foil on. This trick helps to melt the wax more evenly. You can get special lids for candles that achieve the same purpose.

Move your candle to a good area. Pull out a match. Trim the wick. Light the match. Turn the candle sideways. Hold the flame to the wick. Stay with the candle. Make sure your candle is in a good place. Cut the wick. Get out your barbecue lighter. Tilt the candle a bit. Flick the lighter on. Hold the lighter to the wick. Don't trim the wick the first time. Let it burn enough the first time. Don't burn it for short stretches. Use the foil trick.

https://www.wikihow.com/Strengthen-Your-Singing-Voice

How to Strengthen Your Singing Voice

To strengthen your singing voice, start by warming up your vocal chords before you sing by using exercises like humming scales. Then, practice your scales to gain control of your voice and help you stay on pitch. You can also listen to YouTube videos to match your pitch to the notes you should be hitting. Additionally, practice deep breathing by inhaling slowly into your abdomen, then exhaling slowly for about 8 seconds, which will improve the steadiness of your singing voice.

Maintain systemic hydration. You probably learned when you were young that your voice comes from your voice box, also called your larynx. The larynx contains muscles called “vocal folds” that are covered by a mucous membrane. For your vocal folds to vibrate properly and produce a clear voice, you must keep the mucous membrane hydrated. Systemic hydration means maintaining healthy hydration levels throughout the tissues of the body. Long-term hydration is far more important than short-term hydration, so chugging water the day before a performance will not help you Drink, at minimum, 8 glasses of pure water — not tea, not soft drinks — every day. Avoid dehydrating drink that contain alcohol and caffeine. Drink extra water to compensate for alcohol or caffeine if you drink them. Avoid all carbonated drinks, even uncaffeinated ones, if they give you reflux. Practice topical hydration. Besides keeping your tissues internally hydrated, you can also keep your vocal cords moist and healthy through external means. Sip your 8 glasses of water throughout the day instead large amounts at once. This will ensure consistent external hydration. Chew gum and suck on hard candies to keep our salivary glands engaged. Swallow saliva from time to time to clean out your throat without clearing it, which is bad for your vocal cords. Maintain a humid environment. If you live in a dry climate, you can purchase a personal steam inhaler at a pharmacy or hold a hot wet towel over your mouth and nose for a few minutes. Rest your voice consistently. You may love singing, but if you want to do it well, you need to take breaks from time to time. Just as athletes rest muscle groups for a day before working them out again, you need to rest the muscles that produce your voice to avoid injuring them through overwork. If you practice or perform three days in a row, take one day off. If you practice or perform five days in a row, take two days off. Avoid speaking unnecessarily on a day-to-day basis if you have a rigorous singing schedule. Don’t smoke. Inhaling any kind of smoke, whether first or second-hand, dries out the vocal folds. Smoking can also decrease saliva production, which is important for topical hydration, and increase acid reflux, which can irritate throat tissues. The most important effects, though, are decreased lung capacity and function and increased coughing. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Your instrument is your body, so you have to take care of it. Obesity is correlated with poor breath control, which is one of the most important skills a singer must master, so keep your weight down through a healthy diet and lifestyle. Avoid dairy products that create excess mucous that causes you to clear your throat. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, both of which dehydrate the body Eat enough protein to handle the workout your vocal muscles are wearing out through regular use. Exercise regularly, both to keep your weight down and to improve your lung capacity and breath control. Understand how breathing works. The most important muscle to be aware of is your diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle that stretches across the bottom of the rib cage. Contracting the diaphragm (inhaling) pushes down on the stomach and intestines to make room for air, and lowers air pressure in your chest, allowing you to take air into your lungs. To exhale, you can simply relax your diaphragm, which allows the air to leave your chest cavity at a natural rate, or you keep your diaphragm engaged against the stomach and intestines to control the rate of exhalation. The latter is very important for singing. Be aware of your breathing. To improve your breath control, you need to be completely in tune with the entrance and exit of air from your body. Find a quiet, distraction-free environment where you can sit for a few minutes every day and just focus on how inhaling and exhaling feels in your body. Practice pulling your breath down into your body. Many people take very shallow breaths that will not help you breathe, so you need to learn how to breathe in a way that makes best use of your lung capabilities. Inhale slowly and deeply, feeling the air move downward through your mouth and throat and into your body. Imagine that the air is very heavy. Visualize pushing it all the way down below your belly button before letting yourself exhale. As you go through repetitions, inhale more quickly. Continue to imagine the air being heavy and pushing it down into your stomach. Feel how your abdomen and lower back expand. Place one hand on your chest, and the other on your stomach. When you inhale, make sure the hand on your stomach moves more than the one on your chest — you should be pulling air down deep into your body, not shallowly into your chest. Practice holding your breath in your body. After inhaling deeply and pulling the air down into your body, try controlling how long you can keep the air in your body without growing uncomfortable. Try to increase the length of time. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, making sure to draw your breath down into your abdomen like in the previous exercise. Try to hold it for a count of seven, then exhale. Repeat several times. Over time, try to increase the length of time you can hold your breath comfortably. Do exhalation exercises. Exhalation exercises are important for holding steady notes; without them, your voice might waver when you sing. Inhale deeply through your mouth, pushing the air deep into your abdomen. Instead of letting the air rush out at its own natural rate, keep your diaphragm engaged so you can control the rate of exhalation. Take eight seconds to expel all the air from your chest. Once you've exhaled, contract your abdominal muscles to push any remaining air from your lungs. One of the most important parts of improving our breathing is making sure we exhale completely. Do vocal warmups before singing. You wouldn't start running before you stretched out, because you could strain and injure the muscles in your leg; the same principle applies to the muscles involved with singing. Before you put your vocal cords through the stress of some serious singing, you want to make sure you warm up your voice so you don't strain it. Humming is a good way to ease into full-throated singing. Before you begin singing, practice some scales in a hum. Lip trilling warms up the muscles involved with exhalation to prepare them for the controlled breathing required by singing. Keeping your lips pressed together, push air through them to create the sound we associate with being cold: brrrrrrrrr!. Move through your scales in this manner. Practice your scales. Although singing songs is your ultimate goal, you should practice every day on plain old scales. This will help you gain control of your voice, stay on target with pitch, and move more easily between both adjacent and disparate notes. Listen to Youtube videos to make sure you're matching your pitch appropriately to the actual notes you should be hitting. Practice singing scales higher and lower than your most comfortable octave to increase your range. Practice pitching exercises. Pitching exercises like step intervals help you to move easily between notes without losing pitch. Intervals are the distance between two notes, and there are many different exercises you can do that take you through a wide range of vocal exercises. The seven basic Major intervals are Major 2nd, Major 3rd, Perfect 4th, Perfect 5th, Major 6th, Major 7th, and Perfect 8th, and you can find examples of these interval exercises easily online. Record yourself singing. Sometimes, it's difficult to hear how we actual sound while we're singing. Record yourself singing your scales, your pitching exercises, and your favorite songs to hear how you actually sound. You can't improve if you can't tell what you're doing wrong!

Maintain systemic hydration. Practice topical hydration. Rest your voice consistently. Don’t smoke. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Understand how breathing works. Be aware of your breathing. Practice pulling your breath down into your body. Practice holding your breath in your body. Do exhalation exercises. Do vocal warmups before singing. Practice your scales. Practice pitching exercises. Record yourself singing.

https://www.wikihow.com/Tie-Dye-with-Bleach

How to Tie Dye with Bleach

To tie dye your clothing with bleach, twist your garment into a tight spiral or several small knots, then secure the twists with rubber bands. Next, fill a spray bottle with a mixture of 1/2 bleach and 1/2 water. Spray the bleach mixture onto the garment and allow it to sit for 8-10 minutes, then wash the garment with a mild detergent.

Work outside or in a well-ventilated area. The fumes from bleach are extremely strong and they can be dangerous, so make sure you set up your project in an area with plenty of fresh air. If you can, try to work outside. If that's not an option, choose a large room and open a window or turn on a fan. Protect your hands with heavy rubber gloves. Bleach is a strong chemical. Even when it's diluted it can cause chemical burns on your skin. Be sure to wear heavy rubber gloves (like the kind used for cleaning) to protect your skin while you're tie dyeing your clothes with bleach. You can get these wherever cleaning supplies are sold. Choose cotton clothing in a dark color. Black is the best color for tie dyeing with bleach because you will get the best contrast, but you can use any color as long as it's dark enough to produce an effect. Experiment with different colors to find what you like! Avoid garments made from delicate or synthetic fabrics. Bleach won't affect synthetic materials like polyester because they are designed to be colorfast. In addition, bleach can damage more delicate fabrics such as silk. Lay down old towels or a drop cloth. If you're working inside, you'll need to protect your work surface from bleach, so cover it with a drop cloth or old towels that can get messed up. If you're using an absorbent material like a towel, be sure it doesn't get soaked or the bleach will seep through and ruin whatever's beneath it. If you're working outside, you'll want to have something laid on the ground to protect your garment from getting dirty during the tie dyeing process. Twist your garment to create a pattern and secure it with rubber bands. Space the rubber bands several inches apart. The parts of your garment that are rubber-banded will stay the original color, while the exposed fabric will turn white when you bleach it. You can get creative with your designs or you can just bunch up the fabric and put rubber bands on it to get a random and totally unique look. As closely tied as the rubber band or the string you use will be, the tenser removing it will become. If you want, instead of removing, you can cut off the rubber bands carefully, in the end. Twirl the garment to create a spiral pattern. To create a traditional spiral tie-dye pattern, hold your garment with 2 fingers and twirl it so it twists tightly. Keep twirling until the entire garment is twisted into a tight knot. Secure the twirl with several rubber bands, then apply your bleach mixture. You can use a string to tie it up too. The tighter the spirals are secured, the better the distinction between darker and lighter areas will be formed. Create several patterns on the same garment with knots. If you want to create a haphazard tie-dye, try using rubber bands to create several tight, small knots on the garment. Bunch these all together and secure with more rubber bands, then apply the bleach. Secure them tightly so the bleach doesn't seep through the knots. Relocate the rubber bands and re-spray for a multi-hue effect. If you want to create a layered look, twist up your garment and apply rubber bands, then apply bleach to your fabric and let it sit for about 5-6 minutes. Take all of the rubber bands off your garment, twist your garment again, put the rubber bands back on, and re-spray the garment with the bleach mixture. Leave the second batch on for the 8-10 minutes, then rinse. Create an ombre effect on your garment by dipping it in a bleach mixture. After you've tie-dyed your garment, you can make a cool faded effect by dip-dyeing the fabric. In a large bucket, dilute another mixture of 1/2 bleach and 1/2 water. Dip the bottom few inches of your garment in the bucket and leave it for 5-10 minutes to create an ombre effect. Fill a spray or squeeze bottle with a mixture of 1/2 bleach and 1/2 water. You can get a bottle for your project at almost any store which sells cleaning supplies. You can use either a spray bottle or a squeeze bottle. A squeeze bottle may produce a slightly more precise effect than a spray bottle, but the results will be similar with either one. Apply the bleach mixture to the exposed fabric of the garment. Spray or squeeze the bleach mixture from your bottle onto your garment. You can vary the amount of bleach that you use depending on how intense you want the color change to be. A heavier application of bleach will cause the fabric to lighten more, and you can create different looks by applying the bleach only to some areas and not to others. Allow the bleach to sit on the fabric for 8-10 minutes. You should be able to see the bleach changing the color of the garment within about 2 minutes, but it will take 8-10 minutes for the bleach to really seep into the fabric. If you leave it on much longer the bleach could damage your garment. Wash the garment in mild detergent when the time is up. Remove all the rubber bands. You want to wash your garment right away to stop the chemical bleaching process. You can either put your clothing in the washing machine with a mild detergent or you can hand wash it in your sink or bathtub. If you hand wash your garment, make sure to leave on your gloves until you've finished rinsing it so you don't come into contact with any bleach. Have your bathtub rinsed well if you washed in it. Hang your garment to air-dry or place it in the dryer. Once your garment is thoroughly rinsed, you can either air-dry it or put it in the dryer, depending on how you normally prefer to dry your clothes. After it's dry, it's ready to wear, so put it on and enjoy your new style!

Work outside or in a well-ventilated area. Protect your hands with heavy rubber gloves. Choose cotton clothing in a dark color. Avoid garments made from delicate or synthetic fabrics. Lay down old towels or a drop cloth. Twist your garment to create a pattern and secure it with rubber bands. Twirl the garment to create a spiral pattern. Create several patterns on the same garment with knots. Relocate the rubber bands and re-spray for a multi-hue effect. Create an ombre effect on your garment by dipping it in a bleach mixture. Fill a spray or squeeze bottle with a mixture of 1/2 bleach and 1/2 water. Apply the bleach mixture to the exposed fabric of the garment. Allow the bleach to sit on the fabric for 8-10 minutes. Wash the garment in mild detergent when the time is up. Hang your garment to air-dry or place it in the dryer.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Strong

How to Get Strong

To get stronger, start a resistance or weight training regime with exercises like bench presses and shoulder presses, or bodyweight exercises like push ups. In the beginning, train with less weight so you are able to perform 2-3 sets of 10-12 reps. While exercising, make sure you keep proper form by working out in front of a mirror. After about eight weeks, increase the weight you train with, but do so gradually to avoid injury. To get the best out of your training, eat a healthy diet, including proteins and a calorie surplus each day, and ensure you rest between each workout.

Plan a strength-building program. To build strength, nearly all fitness resources will recommend some form of resistance or "weight" training. These are exercises that involve pushing, pulling, or lifting against some sort of resisting force, usually gravity. There are many different weight training exercises than can be helpful. Here are a few, listed below: "Free-weight" exercises like the Bench Press, Shoulder Press, Deadlifts, Squats, and Barbell curls are excellent exercises to increase strength and muscular density. "Machine" versions of these exercises also work, but won't train your balance and form as well. Bodyweight exercises are also a great way of improving strength, and it's usually the best place to start a new workout. Hold off on the machines until you master bodyweight exercises. You can do exercises like push ups, pull-ups, chin-ups, sit-ups and bodyweight dips to increase strength in the upper body and core. Prisoner squats and lunges can increase leg strength. Start slowly. Ease your way into a weight training regimen. According to strength coach Dan Trink, C.S.C.S., as a beginner you should start with lighter weights and be able to do two to three sets of 10 to 12 repetitions (that is, a complete motion of the exercise), leaving two to five reps “in the tank.” At this early stage you shouldn't push yourself too hard, but accustom your mind and body to the movements. You will see results with even modest amounts of exercise. Two to four workouts of 30 minutes per week is enough to get good strength gains. Give yourself one to two minutes between sets to recover. But don't wait too long, or you will not make the most of your routine. Use proper form. Always do weightlifting exercises the way they were meant to be done. This is essential for strength and safety. A good general policy is to work on form at first, using "easy" levels of weight. Only increase the weight when you have your form down. Don't ever jerk, bend your back, or otherwise break your form to complete a rep. This is a good way to injure yourself, killing your strength gains. If you can, workout across from a mirror. This isn't vanity — you can use the mirror to make sure you are using proper form. Don't be tempted to hold your breath while lifting — make sure to breathe out as you lift the weight and to breathe in as you lower it. Holding your breath can cause fatigue, dizziness, and elevated blood pressure that can make you faint. If an exercise is too difficult to do with proper form, see if you can perform an easier version of the same exercise. For example, if you can't do a pull-up, use a chair or partner to support your legs. If just getting started, work with a physical therapist or trainer to help develop proper technique. Stop short of the "point of failure. ” Weightlifting for strength (as opposed to muscle mass or appearance) usually involves coming close to the "point of failure." This is when you can't do an exercise anymore with proper form. For example, if you are doing simple arm curls (i.e. pulling the dumbbell up towards your shoulder), the point of failure is when you can't do one more curl. Although some weightlifters recommend that you always aim for the point of failure, others argue that this puts excess stress on the central nervous system and also requires longer short term and long term recovery times. Instead, they recommend you aim for one or two reps short of failure. Choose between muscle size and muscle tone. Consistent weight training with good form will increase your strength over time. However, your exact results can vary depending on how you approach your exercises. There are two main choices: Training with higher weights and lower reps will increase your strength as well as muscle size. This is how Olympic lifters get massive, powerful muscles. Training with lower weight and higher reps will increase your strength and endurance and while toning the muscle. In other words, your muscles may not get huge, but they will get stronger, harder, and more defined. Ramp up your workout over time. You should see great progress in the first two months or so. Resist the urge to skip ahead and stick with your program. After about eight weeks, however, you will start to reach a point of diminishing returns and need to add more weight. In this next phase of training, you should aim to perform fewer reps and more sets – Trink says that three to four sets of eight to ten reps for each exercise is a good goal. Every week, subtract reps and add sets, leaving about one rep “in the tank.” You will have to update your routine in order to make steady gains. If you reach a plateau, it's time to add more weight and reduce sets. This bears repeating: slow, steady improvements are the way to get stronger. Attempting really difficult exercises too quickly can leave you injured. Also make sure to maintain good form. Exercise safely. Working with heavy weights is a great way to build your strength, but it can also be dangerous if attempted carelessly. Many exercises put great stress on joints – full squats, for example, can be hard on the knees while certain barbell exercises stress the back. Do not attempt a new exercise without learning the proper form so that you. The supervision of a trainer can help here. And never attempt the point of failure on a bench press without a "spotter." This is a person that can grab the barbell before it falls on you if you misjudge how much you can still lift. Eat a healthy diet with protein. The old saying "you are what you eat" is especially important when it comes to building strength. A strength-building diet includes lots of lean proteins like fish, chicken, and leaner cuts of beef and pork, which help build muscle. Whole-wheat carbs (like bread, rice, and pasta) are a good source of energy, but don't load up on them. Healthy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and other greens contain lots of nutrients, while fruits are great for dessert and quick boosts of energy. Avoid junk food — it will only hold you back. You will need protein, but not too much. The human body can only process a limited amount of protein at each meal. Aim for about.7 to.8 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight each day. Anything more will be stored as body fat. Eat a calorie surplus each day. To gain strength and muscle mass, you will need to consume enough calories to fuel your workouts; you will also need to consume a net calorie surplus so that your body can rebuild itself. This doesn't have to be a big surplus: 300 – 500 calories above what you normally eat is fine. While lifting, a weight gain of.5 to 1 pound per week is normal. Eat frequently, as well, as often as every three hours. Your meal plan should include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and several sizeable snacks. Each meal should contain some kind of protein like eggs, lean cuts of meat or fish, edamame, rice and beans, lentils. Try to avoid processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, or lunch meats. Balance your workouts with rest. When you work out, your muscles' microscopic fibers are broken down. It takes time for your body to rebuild them stronger than before. Aim to work out about three to four times a week if you're a beginner, leaving a few days of rest. Hit different muscle groups every day so that each muscle group can rest. A good night's sleep (seven to nine hours for most people) is also essential for making strength gains, so make sure you're always in bed at a reasonable time. Consider training in the morning when your energy level is at its highest. You can even do it before breakfast. If you train in the afternoon, make sure to fuel properly throughout the day with a healthy protein/carb lunch. Consider cardio for endurance. Cardio exercises won't make your muscles stronger, but they will make it so that you can exert yourself for longer. They're also great for weight loss as long as you don't eat more to compensate for the calories burnt. It's up to you to decide how to divide your time — while most power lifters don't spend lots of time on cardio, working a little into your workout will never hurt you. Cardio is an excellent way to warm up before strength training. See our cardio articles for lots of great exercises. Don't overtrain. In addition to resting, make sure that you aren't working out too often. Taking on too much can put you at risk of fatigue or injury, and can actually reverse the gains that you've made. If you feel pain during an exercise, stop. Give yourself one or two days' rest or reduce the weight before trying again. Be patient and consistent when it comes to fitness goals. Having a great workout one day and never doing it again will not make you stronger. You can only gain strength with hard work over time. Stick with your workout plan — in a few months, your results will speak for themselves.

Plan a strength-building program. Start slowly. Use proper form. Stop short of the "point of failure. Choose between muscle size and muscle tone. Ramp up your workout over time. Exercise safely. Eat a healthy diet with protein. Eat a calorie surplus each day. Balance your workouts with rest. Consider cardio for endurance. Don't overtrain. Be patient and consistent when it comes to fitness goals.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Conversation

How to Make Conversation

To make conversation with more confidence, practice initiating conversations with close friends and family members until you're comfortable enough to start talking to strangers. To start a conversation, all you need is a simple question, like “How are you?” or, “I like your shirt, where did you get it?” If you're worried about not having enough interesting things to say, focus on making the conversation about the other person. Concentrate on what they are saying and show that you are listening by making eye contact and asking relevant follow-up questions. You can also learn to make conversation by listening to a talk show or podcast you enjoy. Pay attention to how the speakers are interacting, and practice imitating their conversational style.

Be an active listener. Many people don't realize how important listening and paying attention are to being a conversationalist. In fact, this is perhaps the most important thing you can do to be good at making conversation. Practicing "active listening" requires you to do two basic things: Concentrate on what the speaker is saying. This is mainly a mental action — rather than just "hearing" what is being said, you want to get in the habit of thinking about what the speaker is saying as they say it. This sort of concentration can be mentally fatiguing at first, but it gets easier with practice. Show that you are listening. This is mainly a collection of physical actions. Look at the speaker to show your attention. Nod when you understand what they're saying. Say "uh huh" occasionally to show your agreement. Ask relevant questions. Be an instigator. It's hard to be a good conversationalist if you only wait for other people to come talk to you. Having the confidence to get out of your comfort zone and start conversations with others will improve your conversational ability immensely. Begin by instigating conversations with people you already know. Even something as simple as "How is your day going?" can get a conversation started. Once you feel able to carry on a conversation with friends and family members, you can start going to places designed for meeting others: bars, clubs, large-group events (like parties or large-scale meetups), etc. All you have to do to start to start a conversation with a stranger is to say, "Hi, my name's [x]! What's yours?" You can also start with a talking point, like, "Wow, that's a cool shirt! Where did you get it?" or "Oh cool, you like [band/show/book/something visible on this person's clothing], too?" Make things about the other person. Everyone has interests. Once your conversation is underway, you can keep it going by asking about things you know the other person is interested in. If you don't know what the other person's interests are, just ask! Comment on them with a few appropriate followup questions (e.g., "How did you get into that?"). If you ask someone whether they're interested in something on their clothing and get an answer like, "No, it was a gift" or "It just looked cool," you're not out of luck. Try explaining how you know about the thing on their clothes and why you like it. Imitate conversations you hear. Good conversationalists learn from the best. To get exposure to people who are expert talkers, listen to podcasts, find an informative talk show you enjoy, or even participate in a chat forum (this is more reading than speaking, but the skills can cross-apply). Try to pay attention to the dynamics of multi-person conversations. Notice when speakers change: usually, this is during a pause or after someone has finished a sentence, thought, or argument. You can often detect when someone's ready to let others talk via tone. Listen for a note of finality at the ends of sentences, then pay attention to whether or not someone else chimes in. Try to end the conversation before you are forced to. The way a conversation ends is important — it's the very last thing that happens, so people tend to remember it well. A good rule of thumb is to end the conversation quickly and politely as soon as you feel even a hint of awkwardness (or even before this). Simply explain that you need to do something else — anything from "I'm going to get a drink" to "I have to go" to "I need to go take care of something" works well. If you feel that the conversation went well, this is your chance to set things up for another conversation with the person. Try saying something to the effect of, "Hey, I have to go, but I'd love to keep chatting later. What's your number?" Practice. You can't get better at making conversation without actually doing it. Try going to social events and talking to people you don't know. One-off events are best for starting out — there's no pressure of seeing anyone again if you mess up. Weekly or monthly groups are especially helpful once you start getting more comfortable. Repeated interactions are how friendships are formed and maintained. Once you make some new friends, paying attention during conversations is still important. Focus on the skills you're learning. Everything from recognizing speech patterns and mannerisms to picking up on conversation flow to commenting on important topics that come up can help you maintain your friendly connections as well as give you more experience. Start your conversation. To start your conversation, all you need to do is say something like "Hi, how are you?" This gives you an opening statement and a question for your partner to respond to. It gets you past the awkwardness that can develop when each person is waiting for the other to talk and lets you jump right in to the conversation. Be ready — once you start, there's a good chance your partner will ask you a few pleasantries about how you are doing. Broach some easy topics of discussion. Having one or two questions ready beforehand helps here. This way, you won't need to waste time during your conversation to think about them. Try to pick topics that your partner will be interested in and able to comment on. If it's obvious that they have a certain interest, ask about this. If not, you can simply comment on whatever you're both doing at the moment and ask for input. Keep the conversation going. As the conversation progresses, continue commenting on the things that are being talked about during pauses and ask for your partner's input. As you continue the conversation, you learn more about the person you're talking with. This will make it easier over time to have conversations that feel natural and can give you some opening topics next time you talk. Try to avoid awkward silence. If you sense awkward silence coming, change the topic or end the conversation. By avoiding the silence in the first place, you are avoiding the common problem of rambling to try to bring the silence to an end. If you do find yourself in this situation, calm down and simply ask them about something "easy" like their family, a movie that's out right now, or the area where they live. These sorts of topics can "rescue" you from awkwardness. If things do get awkward, remember that you can always simply leave!

Be an active listener. Be an instigator. Make things about the other person. Imitate conversations you hear. Try to end the conversation before you are forced to. Practice. Start your conversation. Broach some easy topics of discussion. Keep the conversation going. Try to avoid awkward silence.

https://www.wikihow.com/Break-Up-with-Someone-Using-Style-and-Sensitivity

How to Break Up with Someone Using Style and Sensitivity

Breaking up is hard to do, but being sensitive can make things a little less unpleasant. Avoid breaking up with someone during holidays, birthdays, or other special occasions so they don't wind up associating these special occasions with a bad memory. You'll also want to avoid breaking up in public places, like the office, at school, or in a restaurant or nightclub since the person may feel more vulnerable if there are others around. Once you're with the person, be honest but sensitive to their feelings since lying can come back to haunt you. Take the high road by avoiding blame or judgment.

Choose the right time. Avoid holidays and special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries at all costs. Do you really want your ex remembering your insensitivity every time that day rolls around? No you don't. Statistics show that most students break up during summer break. For everyone else, Monday seems to be the most popular day of the week for breaking up. Pick an appropriate place. The less public, the better. Don't do it in a place where the person on the receiving end isn't going to feel especially vulnerable. Avoid these break up locations at all costs: The office. At a wedding. In a car. At school. In a restaurant or nightclub. Do it in person. If the relationship is relatively new, maybe you can get away with breaking up over the phone. Maybe. But come on, if you've been out on more than a handful of dates, isn't that kind of harsh? Do the right thing and end the relationship in person. Having one final talk together is a good way to bring closure to the relationship. As painful as it may be, a relationship-ending conversation might enable you to learn something about yourself and set the stage for something better in the future. Don't lie. You may try to be sparing their feelings, but it will blow up in your face when you're caught. You will be considered untrustworthy, and your reputation will falter. Your friends might back you up, but that doesn't mean the rest of the world will. Be honest but sensitive. No one likes to get dumped. But we at least appreciate the truth when it's over. Unless, of course, the truth is you've stopped finding them attractive, you've met someone better, or that you're just plain bored with the relationship. There's no point being negative. Try to exit with as much decorum as possible. Even if there's bad blood, always take the high road. You'll be glad you did. Keep your emotions in check. Don't seem too happy about the break up: you'll come off as mean-spirited. Just be kind, caring, and considerate. Don't react. Some people don't handle rejection well. Some people yell, scream, or cry. But it doesn't mean you should react to their meltdown. Remember, rejection is tough. You've already got the status of being the dumper. If their tantrum escalates, get out of there! Don't wait around for the messy aftermath. Only try to ignore when the conversation is yelling and screaming, try to be and remain civil in all other situations. Be honest and sensitive and try to listen to their emotions and act upon them.

Choose the right time. Pick an appropriate place. Do it in person. Don't lie. Be honest but sensitive. Keep your emotions in check. Don't react.

https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Clothing-Retail-Store-Business

How to Start a Clothing Retail Store Business

To start a clothing retail store business, first choose a niche, such as vintage clothing, sportswear, or women's clothes. Once you know what kind of product you'll sell, register an attractive brand name and secure a retail license. You'll also need to write a business plan to set your goals and help you get investment if you need it. After you've secured the necessary capital, purchase a store in an area with high foot traffic and little competition so customers will easily find you. Then, buy your initial inventory from wholesale vendors or trade shows. Price your products so that they're competitive but also allow you to make enough profit to cover your expenses. For example, if you buy a shirt for 20 dollars, sell it for around 30 dollars.

Write down your goals for your business. A great way to get started is to grab a pen and paper and jot down what you hope to accomplish with your clothing retail business. This will help you organize your thoughts and nail down your ultimate goals with the business. Defining your goals from the start can help you stay focused on them. For example, you may have a goal to have 10 locations within the next 10 years. Or, you may want to create a single, sustainable storefront. Select a clothing style or type that you want to sell. Before you open a clothing store, you need to know what kind of clothing you're going to sell! You can go with a men's, women's, or children's clothing store, or a combination of these categories. You could also choose to sell specialty clothing, like vintage clothing, sportswear, or another specific category. Add your decision to your written goals. Use the skills and knowledge that you already have. For instance, if you've worked in women's clothing retail, you can use your experience in your new business. Create a name for your business. A good name for your business can help you define your goals and motivate you to start your store. The name is also the first thing that your future customers will see, so it's important that your business makes a good first impression. Come up with a good working name while you're planning your business. The name could always be changed later in the process if you think of a better one. The name of your business is a major part of the identity of your brand, so give it the time and attention it deserves. Be sure to check that the name you choose isn't being used by somebody else already! Come up with a marketing strategy for your business. Describe how you plan to catch the attention of potential customers and get them to purchase clothing from your store. Write out how you plan to convince customers that your clothes are better than competitors. A good marketing plan will help guide your marketing decisions and will help convince potential investors that you've done your research and you have an effective strategy. Discuss the role that social media will play in your marketing strategy. Talk about the need for your business in the market. For instance, if you sell clothing aimed at women over 40, you may want to take out ad space in a local newspaper or magazine that is mainly read or viewed by that demographic. Put together a business plan to attract investors. The plan should include a description of your business, market research for your store, and a list of the resources you need to get the business started. If you plan to apply for a loan or seek investors to start your business, a well-developed business plan can be a great tool. Think about what investors would want to know about your business and include it in your plan. Prepare answers for questions that you can expect to be asked. For example, it's likely that a loan officer will ask you what you plan to sell and how you expect to turn a profit. Be ready to answer any questions they may have. A good business plan can also be used to seek business partners. Pitch your business idea to secure startup costs. Use your business plan to pitch your idea to venture capitalists, the Small Business Administration, a loan officer at a bank, or any other potential investors. Make sure you specify how much funding you need and how you plan to spend the money. Break down the cost of rent, inventory, staff, marketing, or any other expenses you plan to incur. Apply for a small business loan from the SBA or from the bank. Select an LLC, partnership, or sole proprietor legal structure. In order to start a clothing retail store business, you need to register your business, get a tax ID number, and file for any licenses or permits that you may need. But before you can do any of that, you need to choose a business structure. A sole proprietorship business gives you complete control of your business, but it means your business assets and liabilities are not separate from your personal assets and liabilities. This model is a good choice for a low-risk business or if you want to test your business idea. A partnership structure is a simple structure for 2 or more people to own a business together. A limited liability company, or LLC, protects you from personal liability and lets you take advantage of both the corporation and partnership structures. Consult with a business counselor, accountant, or lawyer to help you choose the best business structure for you. If you're in the US, you can incorporate your business yourself online by visiting the Small Business Administrations website at https://www.sba.gov/. Get the necessary licenses and permits to operate your business. Your local government will require you to register your business and obtain certain licenses and permits in order for you to start your store. The requirements can vary from location to location so contact your local government to find out what licenses and permits you need and how you can apply to get them. If you're in the US, every state will require you to register your business with them and will have different permits that you need to secure. There are also Federal business licenses and permits you need to apply for. Draft company policies for employees and customers. Include disciplinary policies, policies regarding cell phone or electronic device usage, and safety policies that they need to follow. You also need to define your company policy regarding refunds and returns, or late payments so employees and customers are clear about them. Before you hire employees, you need to have a document that clearly lays out your company policies. Post an ad to hire employees. Local newspaper classifieds and a sign outside of the business saying “Help Wanted” are great ways to find local employees. You can also post to online classified sites like Craigslist, or even post to your business page on Facebook saying that you're hiring. Set up a Craigslist account to post a job listing as well. Set up a cloud-based point of sale system with a tablet. You can easily set up a point of sale system by downloading an application, using a card-reader attachment in the headphone jack, and completing transactions with your tablet. The app will keep track of all of your sales, taxes, and allows you to run reports so you can track your finances. Cloud-based POS systems must be connected to the internet in order to function. Popular cloud-based POS systems include Square, PayPal, and Clover. Look for areas with lots of foot traffic. When you're out scouting for a potential storefront, pay attention to the amount of foot traffic the area gets. A store in a strip mall, shopping center, or even a stand-alone location needs lots of people who will walk through the area and peruse the clothes you're selling. Consider leasing a store in a shopping mall, which will have lots of foot traffic. Check to see if you can see the storefront from the road. If your store is easy for lots of people to see, then you're more likely to have people check out your store. You can also save on advertising costs and promotions. Look for a location that people can easily see from the street or when they walk through the area. Look for strip malls that have a large sign for you to display your business. Select a storefront in an area that your target demographic frequents. When you're considering a location, look at the people who frequent the neighboring stores and who inhabit the area. You want to have a consumer base that is interested in your clothing and can afford it. For example, if you plan to sell athletic wear, look for an area with lots of active-looking people or a gym located nearby. Research the safety and security of the locations you scout. You want to choose a location that is safe for both yourself and your customers. Ask the owner about any previous break-ins and check the crime statistics of the area. You don't want to set up your business in an area that has the potential for theft. Ask any neighboring business owners if there have been any security or safety problems in the past. Look for locations with rents that you can afford. You don't want to spend all of your budget on rent or you may not have enough capital to invest in inventory, design, or advertising. You also need to consider utility bills, maintenance fees, taxes, and the costs of any remodeling that you plan to do. A good rule of thumb is to keep rent at about 5-6% of your total sales. So if you sell $100,000 of merchandise a month, you should have a rent amount of $5,000. Contact wholesale vendors who carry clothing that you want to sell. Look online for wholesale clothing suppliers that carry items that you're interested in selling at your store. Call or email them to say that you're interested in buying from them wholesale to sell in your store. They may have specific prices for people who plan to sell their inventory in a store. Look at overseas companies for cheaper inventory, but be careful because the products could be low-quality. Go to trade shows to buy wholesale merchandise for your store. You can meet and network with wholesale clothing business and start a working relationship with them. You'll be able to see their products first-hand to check their quality. You can also make a wholesale purchase at trade shows. Check online for trade shows in your area. Price your inventory to be affordable but also turn a profit. You need to determine how much to mark-up an item. Research similar clothing item prices and what other businesses are charging for them. You want to find a balance with pricing your clothing so people will want to buy it but also allow you to pay the bills and make money. Calculate the overhead costs of your business to help you decide your pricing models. Look at how competitors discount their merchandise as well so you can emulate their model. Clothing industry markups are generally around 55%. So if you buy a shirt for $20, you would sell it for $31 to earn a profit. Create a checkout station for your cashiers. You'll need a desk or counter for your point of sale system and an employee to operate it. It will also be the area where your customers will stand in line to pay for their merchandise. You may want to have a separate station that is strictly for returns, refunds, or customer service. Use ropes, racks, or even tables with merchandise on them to create lanes for customers to line up in. Keep impulse buys like candy or small items like socks or jewelry near the checkout area. Be sure to make the area wheelchair accessible for any customers with a disability. Set up mannequins, display racks, and seating for customers. Mannequins allow you to show your customers how an item looks when it's worn. Display racks allow your customers to view multiple items quickly. You also want to have some comfortable benches or couches so your customers can relax while they shop. People need to be able to peruse your merchandise easily and decide whether or not they like an item quickly. The more comfortable your customers are, the more time they are likely to spend in your store. Arrange your inventory in your store so it catches people's attention. Aesthetic is very important in a retail clothing store. Make your inventory visible and appealing by arranging it on displays and mannequins in a way that is visually appealing. Try color coordinating items or arranging like items with one another. Lay out the floor plan in a way that allows customers to move around easily so they peruse more of your inventory. Create a website for your store. A clean, professional-looking website will work wonders for your business. You can use it to promote products or sales to get people into your store. Use a domain provider like GoDaddy or Domain.com to secure a web address that matches your business. Design your website so it's visually appealing and matches the clothing that you sell. For example, if you sell baby clothes, design your website so it's fun and cute with bright colors and smiling babies. Set up social media accounts for your business. Social media is an integral part of marketing your business and products. You can use social media to advertise a sale or a new item. You can also add a link to direct visitors to your website to increase your website's traffic. Use fun content to increase engagement. A silly quote or a good-looking graphic can catch people's attention and drive them to your store. Start an Instagram for your business to share photos of your inventory and to advertise sales. Create a Facebook page for your store to share content that will increase engagement and make people aware of your business. Use digital marketing to promote your business. Create and share marketing content, advertise new products and sales, and use email marketing campaigns to reach new customers. The internet is a useful tool for you to use to market your clothing store, and much of it doesn't cost anything but the time you put into it. Use search engine optimization to help your website appear in more search engine results. Develop and create content marketing to increase engagement and reach more potential customers. Create a targetted email marketing campaign to promote brand awareness, reach out to past customers, and attract new customers.

Write down your goals for your business. Select a clothing style or type that you want to sell. Create a name for your business. Come up with a marketing strategy for your business. Put together a business plan to attract investors. Pitch your business idea to secure startup costs. Select an LLC, partnership, or sole proprietor legal structure. Get the necessary licenses and permits to operate your business. Draft company policies for employees and customers. Post an ad to hire employees. Set up a cloud-based point of sale system with a tablet. Look for areas with lots of foot traffic. Check to see if you can see the storefront from the road. Select a storefront in an area that your target demographic frequents. Research the safety and security of the locations you scout. Look for locations with rents that you can afford. Contact wholesale vendors who carry clothing that you want to sell. Go to trade shows to buy wholesale merchandise for your store. Price your inventory to be affordable but also turn a profit. Create a checkout station for your cashiers. Set up mannequins, display racks, and seating for customers. Arrange your inventory in your store so it catches people's attention. Create a website for your store. Set up social media accounts for your business. Use digital marketing to promote your business.

https://www.wikihow.com/Restore-Your-Computer

How to Restore Your Computer

To restore your PC to an earlier date's configuration, type "recovery" into the search bar, click Recovery , click Open System Restore , and then follow the on-screen instructions. To restore your Mac from a Time Capsule backup, hold Command + R as you're booting up the computer, then follow the on-screen instructions.

Understand how the restore process works. Windows creates a system restore point every 7 days, and every time a new Windows update is installed. Windows can roll back to previous settings without affecting any files you have edited or created since then. System Restore does not backup files, so it can't be used to recover files that have been deleted. Launch System Restore. Open the Start menu and type System Restore into the search bar. Select System Restore from the list of programs. Close any programs that may be running on your computer during the restore process. Select the restore point. System Restore will present you with a calendar or a list containing the restore points on your computer. Select a restore point from before your computer began malfunctioning and click Next. Wait for the restore process to finish. Once the restore process is complete, Windows will reboot the computer. Understand your recovery options. Mac has several different recovery options, but in order to perform a restore, you must have previously configured a Time Capsule backup. Otherwise, your options are limited to repairing the hard disk or formatting and reinstalling a fresh copy of OS X. Configure a Time Capsule backup. Connect an external hard drive to your Mac that is equal or greater in size to your Mac's internal hard drive. If you have never set up a Time Capsule before, OS X will ask if you want to configure the newly connected drive as one. Select Use as Backup Disk. Select “Encrypt backup Disk” if you want to add password protection to your backup file. Wait for your backup to complete. You can schedule automatic backups and specify specific files in the Options menu. Restore a Time Machine backup. Reboot the Mac and hold down the Command key + R while the system boots up. This will open the OS X Recovery Tool. From here you can pick your recovery option. Select Restore From Time Machine Backup to load your latest disk image from the external drive. If you have multiple backups stored on the Time Capsule, you will be given a list to choose from. Pick one from before you started having issues with the computer. Unlike System Restore in Windows, you can use a Time Capsule backup to retrieve files that were deleted in the past, as long as you have a backup from when the file existed. Restoring without a Time Capsule backup. If you don't have a Time Capsule backup, then the only way to restore OS X is by formatting and reinstalling. You can do this from the OS X Recovery Tool. Press Command+R while rebooting the Mac. Select Reinstall Mac OS X. Note: You will need to be connected to the internet in order to successfully reinstall your copy of Mac OS X without the disc. Reinstalling the operating system will delete all of your saved data, programs, and settings.

Understand how the restore process works. Launch System Restore. Select the restore point. Wait for the restore process to finish. Understand your recovery options. Configure a Time Capsule backup. Wait for your backup to complete. Restore a Time Machine backup. Restoring without a Time Capsule backup.

https://www.wikihow.com/Express-Love-in-a-Long-Distance-Relationship

How to Express Love in a Long Distance Relationship

To express love in a long-distance relationship, text your partner a few times a day to let them know you're thinking of them. Send them pictures or stories that remind you of them, or simply check in to say you love them! You should also try to talk on the phone or video chat once day to hear each other's voices and reconnect. Set up a few long-distance dates, as well, to talk, laugh, and spend time together as a couple.

Text them randomly throughout the day. You can show your significant other that they're on your mind by sending them texts throughout the day, not just when you have a specific question or something to say. Check in every couple of hours to say hi, tell them something funny about your day, or just say you miss them. Send something casual, like: “Ugh, this day… how's your Tuesday going haha” “Hey guess what, I love you :)” “Was just thinking about you, miss you so much <3” Go into detail when talking about your day to make your partner feel like they’re there. Share the things that happen to you in enough detail that your partner really feels like they're there with you. This will help them feel like they're a part of your life, lessening the distance between you. For example, you could say, “This dinner took forever haha. The client ordered like 3 appetizers and they were all so fancy when all I wanted was french fries lol. She was nice and I think we've got the sale, but I was so ready to leave by the end.” Text them about things that remind you of them. When you hear or see something that reminds you of your partner, tell them about it! It'll make them feel good to know that you're thinking about them and being reminded of them throughout the day. You could say, for example, “I just passed someone walking their dog and it looked EXACTLY like Buddy,” or, “Just ordered your favorite: plain eggs and bacon for dinner haha.” Send them pictures and videos to make them smile. Send your significant other funny pictures and videos you see online, selfies, and even pictures from your day to day life. You can do this over text or Snapchat, and even start a streak with them by sending pictures multiple days in a row. Tell them you love them in different, specific ways. Your partner already knows you care about them, but it never hurts to remind them every once in a while, especially when they're not expecting it. Try to think of a different reason every few days and send it to them without preamble, just to make them feel good. Save a couple things to tell them on the phone or in-person. Texting is great for keeping in touch throughout the day, but don't make it your primary means of communication. Save a couple of interesting things to talk about over the phone or on video chat, like longer stories or big events. You want to make sure you have lots to go over when you talk later. You could pique their interest by promising to tell them about something later. Say, “The most hilarious thing just happened lol, remind me to tell you about it later!” Set up a time to talk every day. Try to keep a regular phone or video chat schedule to make sure you include your partner in your everyday routine. It's also a nice way to check in with each other and hear each other's voices, which can help you feel closer. If your schedules don't allow you to talk every day, come up with a realistic routine that works for you. Give them an unexpected call once in a while to surprise them. Just because you set up a calling schedule doesn't mean you can't drop in from time to time! Surprise your significant other over their lunch hour or right after they wake up to put a smile on their face. Say something like, “Hey, I know you're heading out, but I just wanted to see your face really quick. Love you!” Make sure you have a good idea of their schedule. You don't want to call in and interrupt a class or an important meeting. Ask about each other’s daily lives when you talk. When you get on the phone, check in with your partner about their day at work or school. Ask about their friends or colleagues, see how different projects are going, and generally express interest in their day-to-day life. This might seem small, but showing that you're invested in what's going on in their life can make them feel loved and special. Say something like, “Hey, how's that group project going in your bio class?” or “How's everything with your roommate?” Open up about things you can’t talk to anyone else about. Beyond everyday life, you can also talk with your partner about anything else that's on your mind. Phone and video calls are the time to bring up any worries or stresses you might have, about your relationship and otherwise. Ask them how they're doing and share what you're feeling too. Listen to them and ask questions, and be honest about yourself as well. To bring up something about your relationship, you might say, “I've been feeling kind of left out lately. I'm glad you're hanging out with your friends, but I miss talking with you.” Talking about deeper issues or feelings might be hard, but it shows that you trust each other. In the end, working through things together will bring you closer. Tell them that you miss and love them. It can help your partner to hear that you love and miss them in your own voice, not just over text. Make sure to tell them you care about them every time you talk, even if it's just for a few minutes. Keep your tone positive; moping about missing them might bring them down, too. Instead, focus on how much you love them and how happy you are to be with them, even if it's hard. Send a love letter. Snail mail might feel old-fashioned, but it's a uniquely sweet way of communication with your partner. They'll be surprised and touched that you took the time to write them a real letter. Texts and phone calls are wonderful, but they'll treasure your letters for a long time. In your letter, talk about how much you love them and how they make you feel. Describe the future you see for your relationship and how excited you are to have that with them. Set up long-distance dates to make time for each other. Just because you're not in the same place doesn't mean you can't have date nights! Plan to video chat at the same time and do something together, like eating a nice dinner or playing a game. This is a special way to reconnect and spend time together outside of your usual phone calls. Make private social media accounts just for sharing things with each other. Create a private Instagram or Pinterest account just for the two of you to share. Post things that remind you of each other, from your everyday life, photos of both of you together, or even a countdown to the next time you'll see each other. This gives you another way to connect with each other and express your love when you're not together. Plan to visit each other when you can. In a long-distance relationship, it's good to plan ahead and always know when you'll see each other next, even if it won't be for a few months. This gives you both something to look forward to and prevents you from going too long without seeing each other. When you do visit, take advantage of the time together! You can do fun activities in each other's towns, but make sure to take time to be alone and reconnect, too. Don't put too much pressure on yourselves to have a perfect visit. Don't feel bad if you get into an argument, or if one of you needs to work or study while you're together. Be flexible and understanding with each other. Send intimate pictures if you both feel comfortable with it. Sending intimate pictures to your partner can help them feel loved and desired, which is important in a long-distance relationship. It's important to remember, though, that you shouldn't send pictures unless both of you are OK with it. It might be awkward to talk about, but being honest about what you want or don't want can make your relationship better in the long run. You could say, for example, “I miss seeing your body. Do you want to send me a couple pictures? It's OK to say no if you don't feel comfortable with it.” Make sure you have established trust in your relationship before sending any private pictures. Send them a care package on special days. If you can't be together on your anniversary, birthday, or Valentine's Day, sending your significant other a thoughtful care package is a great way to make them feel special from afar. You can include things like non-perishable foods, books, small gifts, and other little presents you know they'll love. If you want, you can give the care package a theme. A Valentine's Day care package, for example, could be full of candy, chocolate, and stuffed animals, as well as a love letter and a picture of the two of you. Send them pictures or collages of both of you together. Sending your partner cute pictures of the two of you can remind them of the times you've spent together, which can make it a little easier to be apart. You can send them a few pictures randomly, on your phone or via email, as a quick, sweet surprise. You can also get the pictures printed and framed to send to them as a gift or even make a collage of special times you've had together. Be honest with each other. Honesty is key in any relationship, but it's especially important if you're doing long-distance. It might be tempting to push doubts or worries under the rug, but that'll just put off the problem, and might even make it worse. Being honest with each other will keep your lines of communication open, and help you both to trust one another. If you're worried about your relationship, for example, you could say, “I feel like we don't talk as much as we used to, and it's been hard for me. I miss hearing your voice every night.” It's especially important to talk to your partner if you're questioning whether to keep the relationship going. Say something like, “I've been thinking a lot, and I'm not sure about doing this anymore. It's been really hard on both of us and I don't want to put either of us through that.” Work through tough times together. Every relationship experiences some bumps in the road, but they can feel harder to move past when you're not with each other. When you're feeling frustrated, annoyed, confused, or upset, it's important to talk to your partner about it and work through it as a team. Figuring out a solution or a compromise together can be hard, but it will reinforce the strength of your relationship in the long run. Don't cut off communication while you're working through tough times since it could create more problems. Let them lead an independent life, and have your own, to show your trust. Not being with your partner all the time might make you start thinking about them or pining after them even more. Instead of allowing this to spiral into trust issues, or dedicating all of your free time to talking to them, try to let each other develop your own lives, just as you would if you were together. Pursue your hobbies, try new things, spend time with friends and family, and let your partner do the same. Staying busy will also help get your mind off of how much you miss your partner. Tell your partner who you're spending time with so they don't get jealous. Talk about your future together so you know you’re on the same page. If you're in a long-distance relationship, there's a good chance you consider it a long-term relationship as well. Most people don't attempt long-distance unless they know that their partner, and their relationship, are worth it! Still, it's important to make sure you're both in agreement on where your relationship is going. This isn't an easy talk to have, but it's crucial to keep your relationship strong and honest. Say something like, “I wanted to talk about where this is going, long-term. I really think we can make this work, even doing long-distance, and I think our relationship deserves a chance, but I want to know where you're at.” Try to have this talk before you start long-distance if you can. Determine early on in the relationship if either you or your partner is willing to move. That way, you can determine how long you'll be apart before seeing one another full time. Review and celebrate your relationship often. A long-distance relationship can be hard, but you wouldn't try to make it work if it wasn't worth it. Every few weeks, take a moment with your partner to talk about all that's going well in your relationship: your feelings for each other, the values you share, the ways you make each other better people. You can also take this time to take stock of the not-so-good parts of your relationship. Talk about the last argument you had, going over what caused it and how you might have prevented it.

Text them randomly throughout the day. Go into detail when talking about your day to make your partner feel like they’re there. Text them about things that remind you of them. Send them pictures and videos to make them smile. Tell them you love them in different, specific ways. Save a couple things to tell them on the phone or in-person. Set up a time to talk every day. Give them an unexpected call once in a while to surprise them. Ask about each other’s daily lives when you talk. Open up about things you can’t talk to anyone else about. Tell them that you miss and love them. Send a love letter. Set up long-distance dates to make time for each other. Make private social media accounts just for sharing things with each other. Plan to visit each other when you can. Send intimate pictures if you both feel comfortable with it. Send them a care package on special days. Send them pictures or collages of both of you together. Be honest with each other. Work through tough times together. Let them lead an independent life, and have your own, to show your trust. Talk about your future together so you know you’re on the same page. Review and celebrate your relationship often.

https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-a-Mud-Mask

How to Apply a Mud Mask

Before you apply a mud mask, wash your face to remove any excess oil and buildup so the mask can penetrate your pores. Then, spread a thick layer of the mud mask onto your face, avoiding your eye area. Once you've applied the mask, leave it on for 15 minutes or until the mud starts to dry out. Then, use a clean cloth soaked in lukewarm water to gently wipe the mask off of your face. After most of the mask is off, rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.

Scoop out some beauty mud. Use your middle and ring fingers to scoop out some of the beauty mud. Start with a small amount, about the size of a dime. If you'd like to apply a thick layer of beauty mud, you can scoop out a larger amount. Remember, it's easier to add beauty mud to your face than remove excess. Spread the beauty mud. Place the beauty mud on the apples of your cheeks and gently spread it around your cheeks, forehead, temples, chin, and nose. You can apply a thin layer if you want a quick mud mask that's easy to remove. If you apply a thick opaque layer of beauty mud, you'll be able to keep it on your skin longer since it won't dry out your skin's face as quickly. Avoid applying the mask to your eye area. While you can cover your entire face with the mask, you should avoid using the beauty mud around your eye. The skin around your eye is delicate and if you apply mud to the area, you risk getting it in your eye, especially when removing the mask. Stand in front of a mirror when you apply the mask so you can easily avoid the eyes. You should make sure to cover any blemishes or acne-prone areas of your skin. Just be gentle when you apply the beauty mud so you don't irritate the skin further. Wait for 15 minutes. Once you've applied the mud mask, leave it on for 15 minutes or until the mud starts drying out. Wash off the mud mask. Take a clean cotton cloth and soak it in lukewarm water. Wring it out completely and gently rub it against the mud mask. Keep rinsing and wringing out the cloth in between rubbing the mask off. Be gentle when you remove the mask. Rubbing your skin roughly can damage your delicate skin. If you're having trouble removing the mask, soak your cloth in hot water and place it over your face for about 30 seconds. Then, use the cloth to wipe the mask off. Rinse your face. After most of the mud mask has been cleaned off, splash your face with lukewarm water. This will help remove any remaining mud mask. Avoid using hot or cold water. These can shock your skin or overly dry it. Pat your skin dry. Take a soft clean cloth and carefully pat your face dry. Avoid rubbing your skin since this could damage your sensitive skin. Select a mud mask. You have lots of options when choosing a mud mask. Read label descriptions to find a mud mask that will work with your skin type. Depending on your skin type, look for a mask that has specific qualities. For: Dry skin: look for a hydrating product with moisturizing oils Blemish-prone skin: choose a clay mask that can reduce oil and clear up acne Sensitive skin: pick a mask that has minerals to reduce inflammation Combination skin: consider applying two different masks to different parts of your face based on your skin type Tie your hair back. If you have longer hair, you should tie your hair back into a ponytail. This will keep your hair from falling in front of your face or getting stuck in the beauty mud while you apply the mask. If your hair does get mud mask on it, simply wet the strand with a wet cloth and rub the beauty mud out. Clean or steam your skin. It's a good idea to remove excess oil and buildup from your skin before you apply a mud mask. It will also make the mud mask adhere to your skin easier. Wash and dry your skin or do a steam facial. Steam is a great way to open up your pores. It will also let the mud mask penetrate deeper into your skin. Apply a facial oil or moisturizer. Put a few drops of the oil in the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. Gently pat your hands over your face so that the oil is evenly applied to your skin. You can do this before applying the beauty mud since it can dry out your skin. Consider using a facial oil or moisturizer after removing the mud mask to further hydrate your skin. Limit your mud masks. When used correctly, mud masks can improve your skin tone. But, since mud masks can dry out your skin, you shouldn't apply them more than once a week. If you have oily skin, you might be able to apply a mud mask up to twice a week to control oil production. If you have zits or blemishes, you can apply a mud mask just to the trouble spots. Do this whenever you have a breakout.

Scoop out some beauty mud. Spread the beauty mud. Avoid applying the mask to your eye area. Wait for 15 minutes. Wash off the mud mask. Rinse your face. Pat your skin dry. Select a mud mask. Tie your hair back. Clean or steam your skin. Apply a facial oil or moisturizer. Limit your mud masks.

https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Poison-Sumac

How to Treat Poison Sumac

To treat poison sumac, take a cool shower with soap immediately to remove the plant's oil from your skin and prevent it from spreading. Another way to soothe the itchiness is to apply cold, wet wash clothes to the affected areas. In order to help the rash dry out, take an oatmeal, baking soda, or Epsom salts bath daily until your symptoms improve. Since scratching your rash can lead to an infection, you might want to wear gloves to bed so you don't accidentally disturb the rash during the night. You'll also want some anti-itch cream to sooth your rash, so make sure you have calamine lotion, witch hazel, zinc oxide, or tea tree oil in your home and apply it as needed.

Take a cool shower immediately. Urushiol oil takes about 30 minutes to enter the skin. As soon as possible after you've come into contact with the plant, take a shower with soap and cool water. Even if you miss the 30-minute window, showering will remove the oil from your skin and prevent the poison sumac from spreading. Avoid hot water, which will increase irritation. Buy anti-itch medications. If you can't take preventive action within 30 minutes, you'll need some anti-itch treatments to apply to your rash. (Be sure to wash your hands afterward!) Look for products that will soothe the rash while also working to dry it up. When possible, use products with natural ingredients. Some good choices are: Calamine lotion: Using a cotton ball or piece of toilet paper, apply the calamine to the rash. Let it dry. Reapply as needed. Witch hazel: Pour onto a cotton ball. Dab the entire rash. Resoak the cotton ball as it begins to dry. Reapply as needed. Zinc oxide: Rub into the skin. Reapply as needed. Tea tree oil: Apply in the same way you would use witch hazel. While it's safe to apply to rashes and blisters, it will burn broken skin. Topical corticosteroids: These medications are available without a prescription in most pharmacies. Gels and creams are the least expensive options. Apply once to twice daily to the rash. Baby shampoo : A mild baby shampoo can help if the rash is on your scalp. Apply cool compresses. Soak a washcloth with cool water. Wring out the washcloth until it stops dripping. Place the washcloth on the rash. Repeat the process when the cloth starts to feel warm. Apply compresses whenever you feel itchy. Soak in a therapeutic bath. Buy an oatmeal bath treatment at the local drug store. Less expensive remedies include adding one cup (0.23L) of baking soda or Epsom salts to your bath water. Any of these baths works with your anti-itch medication to dry out the rash. Bathe once per day until your symptoms start to subside. Don't scratch. Poison sumac can't spread from leaky blisters. However, scratching does make it worse. Bacteria living under your fingernails can get into the open sores and cause an infection. Rather than risking infection, apply your anti-itch treatments when you begin to feel itchy. It may help if you wear a pair of gloves at night so you're not tempted to scratch yourself. Seek medical help if your symptoms worsen. Most cases of poison sumac clear up in a few weeks with proper home treatments. However, if the rash worsens, you could become very sick. Go to urgent care or an emergency room if any of the following symptoms occur at any point: The itching keeps you up at night. The rash shows no sign of improvement after about two weeks. The rash spreads to your eyes, nose, mouth, or genitals. You develop a fever of 100 degrees F (38 degrees C) or higher. The blisters start to ooze yellow pus, which is a symptom of infection. You experience pain in addition to itching. You have trouble breathing. Take prescription medications, if necessary. If your rash worsens, your doctor will give you a prescription. For severe itching, you might receive an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. If your rash becomes infected, you will receive antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin or any other form of prescription medication. Allergic reactions range form minor rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Scrub under your fingernails. Immediately after exposure, use a nailbrush, which is available at any drug store. Even if your hands didn't touch the plant, scrub anyway. This will prevent the plant oils from being transferred to other parts of your body. Wash your clothes in hot water. Immediately wash everything you were wearing when you came in contact with the plant. Add detergent to remove the urushiol oil. Otherwise, the oil can linger on fabrics like cotton or shoe leather, increasing the risk of spreading the rash and triggering a relapse. Bathe your pets. If your dog or cat was with you during your encounter, give them a good bath with soap and lukewarm water as soon as possible. Plant oils can linger on their fur, increasing the risk of infection in humans. While dogs and cats can develop the poison sumac rash, it's very rare. Don't touch sensitive areas of your body. Keep away from all mucous membranes, such as your eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals. Mucous membranes are far more sensitive than the rest of your skin. Their thinness and moist texture allow them to absorb toxins, including urushiol oil, more easily. Recognize the plant. Poison sumac grows as a shrub or tree-like plant. Each branch consists of seven to 13 smooth leaves on a stem. The leaves appear orange in the spring and green in the summer. In the autumn, they can appear red, orange, or yellow. They sometimes sprout yellow-green flowers and/or whitish-green fruits. Cover your legs and arms. Regardless of the weather, if you have to be in an area near poison sumac plants, wear long-sleeve shirts, long jeans, and boots. Tuck your jeans into your boots to prevent contact with the ground. If you garden in areas where the plant grows, wear impermeable gardening gloves to protect your hands. Avoid leather, as it can actually absorb urushiol oil and transfer it to your skin. Avoid areas where the plant grows, if possible. Poison sumac grows mainly in swampy areas but can live in any area that is wet and forested. The most common regions are the southeast and northern parts of the United States. However, climate change is causing the plant to move into new habitats like the Midwest. Remove the plant. Removal of poison sumac takes lots of strength and patience. Experts recommend using a hoe or lawn mower to remove the plant—but only with highly protective, impenetrable clothing. If you've never dealt with poison sumac and find it growing in your garden or yard, your safest bet is to hire professional landscapers.

Take a cool shower immediately. Buy anti-itch medications. Apply cool compresses. Soak in a therapeutic bath. Don't scratch. Seek medical help if your symptoms worsen. Take prescription medications, if necessary. Scrub under your fingernails. Wash your clothes in hot water. Bathe your pets. Don't touch sensitive areas of your body. Recognize the plant. Cover your legs and arms. Avoid areas where the plant grows, if possible. Remove the plant.

https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-Peeling-Lips

How to Heal Peeling Lips

To heal peeling lips, put some vegetable oil on them, which will help seal in moisture so they stop peeling. You can also use beeswax, shea butter, and cocoa butter. To exfoliate your lips when they're peeling, gently rub olive oil, honey, and sugar into your lips for 10 minutes and then rinse it off. While you're waiting for your lips to heal, avoid biting or picking at them or you could make the peeling worse.

Apply beeswax. This single-ingredient product is a safe and effective way to lock in moisture and prevent further drying. Most lip balm products with additional ingredients cannot make the same guarantee. Choose lip balm with caution. You'd think any lip balm would work, since it's designed for this exact problem. Unfortunately, products that contain menthol, camphor, or peppermint are particularly harsh on damaged lips. Avoid purchasing products with these items listed as ingredients. Many dermatologists recommend petroleum jelly (Vaseline), but some disagree, stating that it may cause harm. Try lip moisturizers. Unlike lip balms, which seal in moisture to prevent drying, lip moisturizers try to rehydrate directly. Some dermatologists recommend moisturizers that contain vitamins A, B, and E, or dimethicone. It's best when used right after a shower, as water, shampoo, and soap can dry out already damaged lips. Apply natural treatments. All-natural lip balms and moisturizers can be effective, but many claims are not supported by evidence. In general, waxes and fats are likely to help seal in moisture, including beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, cocoa butter, and vegetable oils. However, essential oils and fragrances are more likely to irritate your lips than soothe them, and can even cause a major reaction. Make homemade lip balm. If you're not interested in buying products from a store, you can use items housed in your kitchen for relief. Keep in mind that most of these recipes are not vetted by professionals. It's best to stick to simple ingredients and avoid essential oils, or dilute them to 2% strength or less. To make a simple lip balm, take a cup of shaved beeswax, 3 tablespoons of coconut oil, and a teaspoon of vitamin E oil and boil them together over the stove. Remove from heat and let the concoction dry and solidify overnight. Exfoliate gently. A gentle exfoliant may help your lips, but too much can easily cause harm. Try applying a mixture of olive oil, honey, and sugar to your lips for 10 minutes and then washing it off. This should moisturize and soften your lips, but stop if you notice further damage. Consider flaxseed oil. Some websites claim flaxseed oil helps heal chapped lips by restoring essential fatty acids. This may or may not work, but be aware that flax can have dangerous effects if you have certain medical conditions, or an allergic reaction. If you decide to use it, you may apply a small dab of flaxseed oil directly to your lips. Flaxseed oil can also be used as an ingredient in dressings, salsa, and dips. You can also add a drop to foods like cottage cheese, baked potatoes, and popcorn. Be careful. Flaxseed oil does not last long, so make sure to use it within the first three months of purchase. Eliminate lip biting. Sometimes, the cause of peeling lips is the result of our own actions. Oftentimes, people bite their lips somewhat unconsciously when feeling anxious, bored, or stressed. If you notice your lips are peeling or cracked, try to figure out if you've been biting your lip. If you have, take measures to stop the habit. Try to figure out what situations lead to lip biting. Do you bite your lips when you're feeling anxious or engaging in certain social situations, like meeting new people or interacting with co-workers? Do you simply bite your lips when you're bored, like when watching TV or waiting for a bus? After identifying what situations lead to lip biting, engage in anxiety and boredom reducing behaviors that do not have a negative effect on your body. You could try deep breathing, relaxing your muscles, or what is called a competing response. This is a behavior you engage in that makes it impossible to bite your lip. You could, for example, chew gum to occupy your teeth with an alternative activity. Limit your exposure to allergens. If your lip peeling occurs after exposure to a certain food, cosmetic product, or season it may be allergy-related. Cosmetic products, lip balms, toothpastes, dyes, and fragrances often contain material which irritates the lips, eyes, and mouth. If you notice your lips peel after using a particular product, you might want to ditch that item and opt for an alternative. Even if you don't believe your peeled lips are a result of cosmetic products, it's best to ditch the lipstick and lip balm until peeled lips heal. Such products can carry germs and peeled lips are more susceptible to infection. Certain seasons, like early spring, can trigger allergic responses due to the increase of pollen in the air. If you're sensitive to seasonal change, try spending more time indoors or purchasing over-the-counter allergy medications. Allergen exposure can also lead to mouth breathing, which puts strain on the lips by exposing them to more air and debris. This can cause peeling and chapping. Do not lick or pick at your lips. When our lips are dry and chapped, it's tempting to lick them and peel them to relieve symptoms. These habits do harm longterm, however, and can prolong the healing time for peeled lips. Do not pull at peeling skin. While it might be tempting, it does not actually provide relief. It usually causes pain and leads to bleeding, which increases the likelihood of infection and prolongs the healing process. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. Dryness is one of the most common causes of dry, peeled lips. Making hydration a habit can prevent lip peeling from occurring long-term. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Roughly 1.5 liters of water are needed for the average person, but depending on your lifestyle that number may change. If you exercise frequently or have a physically demanding job, for example, you may need more. In general, you should drink enough water that you rarely feel thirsty. If your urine is colorless or light yellow, you are probably in the right range. Eating a balanced and healthy diet can help keep lips healthy. Food can provide about 20 percent of your total water intake. Watermelon and spinach are two examples of foods that are 90 percent or more water by weight. If the air in your home feels dry or if you live in a region prone to pollution and dry air, invest in a humidifier. This will keep the air moist in your home and make peeled lips less likely. Stay away from citrus fruit. Scrubs and balms that include lemon juice or other citric ingredients can irritate your skin and lips. They also cause sun sensitivity that may lead to rashes or blistering. They probably do more harm than good when it comes to healing peeling lips. Avoid harsh exfoliant products. Your lips are more sensitive than your skin. Even products intended for lip use may cause damage to damaged lips. Better to stick with gentle exfoliants instead of something like a facial scrub.

Apply beeswax. Choose lip balm with caution. Try lip moisturizers. Apply natural treatments. Make homemade lip balm. Exfoliate gently. Consider flaxseed oil. Eliminate lip biting. Limit your exposure to allergens. Do not lick or pick at your lips. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. Stay away from citrus fruit. Avoid harsh exfoliant products.

https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Cat-Safe-Outside

How to Keep a Cat Safe Outside

To keep your cat safe outside, make sure you put out fresh water daily so it doesn't get dehydrated. You should also give your cat access to shade, since it's easy for cats to get sunburnt and overheat. Because outdoor cats are more likely to pick up fleas and ticks, try giving it a monthly medication to prevent this. It's also a good idea to spay or neuter your cat so it doesn't mate with another cat while it's outside. If your cat is going to spend a lot of time outside, consider getting it microchipped, which allows shelters to access your information if it gets lost.

Put on a collar with identification. One of the first steps you should take with a cat who's going outdoors is to make sure the cat has a collar with an ID tag. The ID tag should have information such as the cat's name and your phone number. You should also consider a second tag with information that shows your cat is up to date on vaccinations, provided by your vet. Breakaway collars are best because they keep your cat from getting hung up on things, which could strangle them. However, cats are more likely to lose this type of collar since they do breakaway. Consider a harness instead. Another option is a harness, which is a two-part collar. One part goes around the cat's neck and the other part goes under its arms. All of them have a piece that attaches the two circles together along the back and most have a piece that goes along the chest, as well, to keep the collar from choking the cat. If you choose this option, make sure it has a piece that goes along the chest, too. Cats are less likely to strangle themselves with this type of collar, but they can still get snagged by things in the yard. You can find harnesses at your local pet store. Start by acclimating the cat to the harness. Have treats on hand so the cat associates the harness with good things (food!). Put it on for few minutes several times a day until the cat stops paying attention to it, then put it on when the cat goes outside. Think about microchipping your cat. Another good option in addition to a collar or harness is microchipping your pet. Microchips are small (think rice-sized) chips that are implanted under your cat's skin by your vet. These chips provide your information when scanned, though you must keep it up to date online. When pets are picked up off the streets, most shelters and vets will check for a microchip so your pet can be returned to you. Consider leash training. Another option to keep your cat from running away to danger is walking them on a leash. Just like dogs, some cats can be walked on a leash with the help of a harness. Starting when the cat is a kitten will make the process easier, though you can still try it with an adult cat. Harnesses are much harder for cats to get out of than regular collars, making them more appropriate for walking. Once a cat is acclimated to a harness, add a leash. Let the leash drag behind the cat around the house, being sure to stay with the cat in case the leash gets caught. Next, pick up the leash and follow the cat around. Finally, start tugging a little to help guide the cat. When your cat gets used to it, you can start going outside with the cat for short periods. Always be on the lookout for dangers to your cat when you're outside, such as dogs and cars. Also, try not to get too close to something your cat can climb, such as tree trunks, as you may find yourself holding the end of a leash with your cat up in a tree. Put up a metal fence. Another option is to take steps to keep your cat in the yard. Having a metal fence made of planks like a wood fence is a way to keep your cat from climbing up and over it. Your cat can't dig their claws into it, so they can't climb over it. Of course, that means it has to be tall enough so your cat can't simply leap to the top and over the fence. Also, a chain link fence won't work, as your cat can hook their claws or paws over it to climb up the fence. Block other ways your cat can escape the yard. If a tree is too close to a fence, your cat may be able to use it to climb up and over. Look for any place in the yard that has things near the fence that a cat could use to get over the fence, including chairs and trellises. Also, check for any places a cat could squeeze through, as they can get through smaller openings than you'd think. To keep your cat from escaping, you might need to move things around in the yard so they aren't close enough to the fence to allow escape. In addition, you may need to cut branches or even trees if they are too close to the fence. Try to block any escape routes near the ground with boards. Try a screened-in or blocked-in area. Another option is creating an area where your cats can enjoy the outside air but not be able to leave. A screened-in porch or even a small screened-in area just for your cats is a perfect way to give your cats a taste of the outside while still protecting them from danger. Ordinary window screening is susceptible to be scratched apart by your cat. Instead, consider chicken wire, chain link, or even wire mesh hardware cloth. All of these can be used to create an enclosure when they are nailed around a wooden frame. Remember that you will need a roof to keep your cat inside this enclosure. In addition, you can build a cat door or tunnel that leads out to these areas. That way, your cat can go outside when he or she wants. Use a pre-built cage. Another option is a cage or kennel you can buy from a store. These cages are made to keep dogs and cats inside them, so you don't have to worry about strength. Additionally, some come with options for adding slings your cat can lay in. You just pop your cat inside and carry the cage outside. Provide supervision. Another option is staying outside with your cat while he or she is out there. While you may not be able to keep the cat from escaping, you can shoo away any other cats or dangers that might enter the yard. Stay up on vaccinations. When cats go outside, they're exposed to many more diseases than they are when they stay inside. These diseases can be carried by other cats, for instance, or insects that come in contact with your cat. Keeping your cat up on vaccinations helps prevent them from catching these diseases. Even if your cat never comes in contact with another cat, diseases can be left in places like soil, meaning your cat can still catch them. At the least, your cat should be vaccinated against core diseases once a year. Some vets only recommend every 3 years unless your cat is at a high risk, which outdoor cats are. The core vaccinations are for rabies, feline calicivirus, feline panleukopenia (distemper), and feline viral rhinotracheitis. Make sure your vet knows your cat is an outdoor cat, so she or he can recommend the appropriate vaccinations and schedule. While your cat is at the vet, it's good to get a checkup, too, as outdoor cats are more likely to run into trouble, including getting into fights, catching parasites and pests, and catching diseases. While you're trying to protect against these problems, your cat may still catch something. Spay or neuter your cat. If your cat isn't spayed or neutered, he or she is much more likely to come in contact with other cats in search of mating. Contact with other cats is what can lead to diseases as well as scratches from fights. In addition, you won't end up with kittens if you have a female cat. A male cat who isn't neutered will be much more likely to try to escape the yard, as well as wander much farther than a neutered male. It's best to spay or neuter your cats when they are young, between 2 months and 5 months. Experts advise doing so before 5 months because it gives male cats less of a chance to start spraying (all over your house) and less of a chance your female cat will get pregnant. It's a good idea to spay or neuter your cat anyway, as doing so reduces the risk of them developing cancer and several other problems later in life. Don't declaw. If you plan to let your cats out in your yard, they need to be able to defend themselves. Therefore, you need to let your cats keep their claws instead of getting them declawed. Also, claws let the cat climb away from other predators. Dose the cat regularly to prevent parasites. An outdoor cat is more likely to pick up fleas and ticks. In addition, heartworms are also a concern. Therefore, it's important to make sure that you give them their medication on time once a month. Usually, that is a a pill for fleas and ticks and a pill for heartworms. If you have trouble remembering, set a reminder on your phone. Your vet can provide you with the appropriate medications. Consider pet insurance. Pet insurance is relatively affordable, and it can help you pay for any medical bills that may crop up due to your cat being outside. It works much like human health insurance, where you pay so much per month depending on the coverage you want. You can get anything from catastrophic plans to plans that cover most of the bills and medications. Provide water. When your cat is outside, make sure to provide access to plenty of fresh water. Though your cat may find other sources, providing clean water ensures your cat will stay hydrated even in hot weather. In the winter, consider using a thick plastic bowl or even a solar heated bowl to keep the water from freezing. It's best to keep water underneath an overhead cover if possible, to help keep contaminants out of it. Make sure the cat has shade. Believe it or not, cats can get sunburned, particularly light-colored cats. In addition, cats can overheat. Providing access to shade outdoors helps keep your cat safe from the sun. Create a winter shelter. If you take care of a strictly outdoor neighborhood cat, providing shelter in the winter can help keep them alive. Basically, the shelter should be be built to trap the cat's body heat, helping them stay alive through cold winter nights and days. Keep it small. If it's too big, it will allow too much air and heat to escape, and it will be less effective. One easy solution is a storage container with a lid (35 gallon). You can also build small shelters out of wood. You can cut a hole in the side for the cat to enter. The opening you cut should be about 6-by-6 inches and it should be a few inches from the ground. You may also want to cut one on each side. You may need a rock to hold down the shelter, especially in windy weather. You also need to insulate the shelter. If you can check on the shelter regularly, straw or pillowcases loosely packed with shredded newspaper or packing peanuts are a good option, as they cat can sink down into it, basically making a nest. However, these types of insulation need to be replaced when they get wet or gross. Another option is adding Mylar to the shelter's walls, floor, and ceiling, which doesn't need to be replaced. Mylar is best where it's really cold. Mylar is a thin plastic sheet that is used to reflect light, but it can also reflect back heat to the outdoor cat. You can staple, tape, or glue the sheet along the walls. While it's tempting to use things like blankets, towels, and stacks of newspaper, that's not a good idea, as it absorbs heat rather than reflects it back towards the cat. Check your yard for dangers. In addition to providing necessities, you need to make sure you don't have dangers in your yard that your cat could get into. For instance, any chemicals could be dangerous for your cat. Remove chemicals from the area your cat will be in or lock them up. Also consider the plants in your yard. Many plants are toxic to animals, and your cat could eat part of one and become sick. Look up the plants in your yard to see if they could be toxic to your cat. Bring the cat in during busy times. It's a good idea to only let your cat out when the roads nearby aren't as busy. This step is especially important if you don't want to keep your cat just in your yard. By letting the cat out at low-traffic times, you reduce the risk of the cat being hit by a car. Encourage the cat to come back when things get busy. One way you can encourage your cat to come in is to have regular meal times around the time that things get busy. Cats usually have a good sense of when dinner is, but you can also make a habit of standing outside and calling the cat home for food ("Spot! Food time!"), which the cat will come to associate with the food.

Put on a collar with identification. Consider a harness instead. Think about microchipping your cat. Consider leash training. Put up a metal fence. Block other ways your cat can escape the yard. Try a screened-in or blocked-in area. Use a pre-built cage. Provide supervision. Stay up on vaccinations. Spay or neuter your cat. Don't declaw. Dose the cat regularly to prevent parasites. Consider pet insurance. Provide water. Make sure the cat has shade. Create a winter shelter. Check your yard for dangers. Bring the cat in during busy times.

https://www.wikihow.com/Identify-Asbestos-in-Plaster

How to Identify Asbestos in Plaster

To identify asbestos in plaster, get your house tested if it was built or renovated between 1942 and 1974, which is when asbestos was commonly used in plaster in the United States. You should also test popcorn ceilings that were installed between the 1950s and 1970s. Make sure to hire a professional asbestos tester, because the process is very dangerous if you're not properly trained. Before they start the test, turn off all heating, close the doors and windows, and lay a plastic sheet under the area where they'll be working.

Know your dates. Most types of asbestos-containing plaster were manufactured between 1942 and 1974. If your house was built or renovated during that time, it's a good idea to have it tested. That said, asbestos was used in stucco and drywall as early as 1910, and use continued at a slower rate until at least the early 1980's. Asbestos is even used in some building materials today, but the risk is fairly low if your house was built in the 1990's or later. These dates are most accurate in the United States. In some other industrialized countries, significant asbestos use continued until about 2000. Don't rely on a hard cutoff date, since bans on manufacturing sometimes allowed companies to use up their existing supply. Be wary of popcorn ceilings. These textured plaster ceiling coatings were a common use of asbestos, especially (but not exclusively) between the 1950's and 1970's. It's worth testing these ceilings if they are getting old and crumbling, or if you plan on doing nearby renovations that could disturb the area and release dust. Look for signs of damage. Even if the plaster does contain asbestos, this is not a health risk as long as it is in good condition. If you see crumbling, cracks, or water damage, or if the plaster has been sawed, scraped, or sanded, it may be releasing asbestos fibers. If the plaster is undamaged, it's usually best to leave it alone. Check periodically and take a sample only if damage appears later. Hire a professional inspector whenever possible. Without professional training, it is easy to make mistakes in respirator fitting or dust removal that can risk the health of your household. Although rare, there are cases where short-term exposure has caused asbestos-related cancer decades in the future. Country, state, and local laws may also require you to hire a professional, especially for shared buildings and work spaces. Before hiring an asbestos inspector, ask for documents proving they have been trained and approved in asbestos work by government agencies. To avoid a conflict of interest, stay away from inspectors who work for an asbestos removal firm. To find out more about legal requirements, contact your local or state department of health or environmental protection. Seal off the area. Taking a sample can release dangerous asbestos fibers into the air. Whether you are doing this yourself or hiring an inspector, make sure the following precautions are taken: Turn off heating and cooling units. Close windows and doors. Tape a plastic sheet on the floor under the area you'll be sampling, and over open doorways and other large openings. Prevent others from entering the room while you work. Put on a respirator. Asbestos fibers are extremely fine and can easily be inhaled without noticing, which can later lead to lung diseases. To protect yourself, wear a well-fitting respirator rated at least N-100, P-100, or R-100, or one equipped with purple HEPA filtered cartridges. A disposable dust mask will not protect you. If you have facial hair that interferes with a tight fit, you may need a powered, positive-pressure respirator. Wear other safety equipment. Asbestos is most dangerous when inhaled, but it can also cause cuts or "asbestos warts" if it reaches your skin. More importantly, fibers can cling to clothes and spread the danger of inhalation to other areas. Protect yourself before you get started: Wear gloves you don't mind throwing away. Durable work gloves are ideal, but you can use powder-free disposable gloves. Wear safety glasses if taking a sample from above you, to protect against falling debris. Disposable coveralls with built-in footwear are ideal, especially if you are sampling a large area. You can wear old clothes instead and throw them away afterward. Decide where to take samples. The test will be more reliable if you take several samples from different areas. You can ask an asbestos testing laboratory how many samples they prefer, or follow these rules of thumb: Up to 90 m (~1,000 ft ) of plaster: Collect three samples. 90 to 450 m (~1,000 to 5,000 ft ): Collect five samples. Over 450 m (5,000 ft ): Collect seven samples. If there are multiple layers of material, or if plaster in different areas looks different or was installed at different times, treat them as separate materials and sample each one using these guidelines. Dampen the plaster. Fill a hand sprayer with water and a few drops of detergent. Spray this over an area of plaster. Wet plaster will release fewer asbestos fibers. Remove a sample of the plaster. Cut down through the entire depth of the plaster material with any sharp knife or tool. Remove at least a 2.5 x 2.5 cm (1" x 1") square of the plaster. Try not to break the material into small pieces. It's a good idea to contact the testing laboratory first, as some prefer larger samples. For popcorn ceiling coats and other friable material (anything that crumbles apart when you cut it), scrape off about 5 mL (1 tsp). Double bag the sample. Place the sample in a clean high quality zip lock bag or plastic container, then place that inside a second bag. Label the container with the date and the place where you took the sample (e.g. "hallway ceiling north end"). Patch the hole with duct tape. Use the smallest piece of tape possible to cover the hole. This minimizes the amount of fibers released from the cut edge. Clean up the area. Carefully fold up the plastic drop sheet. Thoroughly clean the floor and the area around the sample with wet rags and sponges, or with a HEPA vacuum cleaner. Wipe the outside of the sample container with a wet rag. Never use a regular vacuum cleaner. Asbestos fibers can float in the air for hours. Minimize your use of that room for the rest of the day, and consider an additional mopping or HEPA vacuuming at the end of the day. Throw away contaminated materials. Before leaving the area, put your plastic sheet, cleaning rags, gloves, and outer layer of clothing, including footwear, into sealed, heavy-duty plastic bags. If it turns out your plaster does contain asbestos, deliver these bags to a landfill that accepts asbestos-containing waste. Asbestos is banned from regular trash collection in many areas. Wash skin and non-disposable equipment. Do this before leaving the work area if possible, to minimize the chance of tracking asbestos with you. Locate an asbestos testing lab near you. There are several ways to find an asbestos testing laboratory to test your sample: The U.S. Department of Commerce has established a voluntary accreditation program for asbestos testing labs, and provides a Directory listing of the labs who have become accredited. Labs are listed by state and listings include links to the labs' websites. Check out some well known international labs, such as the International Asbestos Testing Laboratory or EMSL Analytical, Inc.. Many labs offer testing for non-local residents, through Federal Express (“FedEx”), United Parcel Service (“UPS”), or United States Postal Service (“USPS”). Just run a search at your favorite search engine for “asbestos testing”. Check the yellow pages for "Laboratories — Analytical." Get quotes from multiple labs. Asbestos testing is cheap as lab tests go. You can typically get three samples tested for under $100 USD. Follow the instructions on the lab’s website for sample submission. Most companies have a submission form for you to complete and mail or bring in with your sample. Print and complete the form and send with your sample and payment to the address listed for sample submission. Decide what to do next. If it turns out the plaster does contain asbestos, and it is not in good condition, hire an asbestos contractor to handle it. You can either have the plaster removed completely, or seal it underneath a protective coating that traps the asbestos fibers. Make sure the contractor is government accredited. Your local or state health board may be able to provide a list of accredited organizations. Trying this yourself is not recommended. If you're set on the idea, make sure to comply with legal requirements in your area. Confirm the area is safe. After the job is done, you can hire an asbestos inspector or air testing contractor to confirm the asbestos was successfully handled without releasing asbestos into the air.

Know your dates. Be wary of popcorn ceilings. Look for signs of damage. Hire a professional inspector whenever possible. Seal off the area. Put on a respirator. Wear other safety equipment. Decide where to take samples. Dampen the plaster. Remove a sample of the plaster. Double bag the sample. Patch the hole with duct tape. Clean up the area. Throw away contaminated materials. Wash skin and non-disposable equipment. Locate an asbestos testing lab near you. Get quotes from multiple labs. Follow the instructions on the lab’s website for sample submission. Decide what to do next. Confirm the area is safe.

https://www.wikihow.life/Get-Green-Grass

How to Get Green Grass

To get green grass, aerate and fertilize your grass in the spring and fall. Water your grass once or twice a week for 30 minutes, or as long as it takes for the water to penetrate about 4-6 inches deep. This will help your grass develop a robust root system and lead to greener grass. Also, you should water in the mornings if you can, when most of the water goes into the soil instead of evaporating into the air. When you mow, mow in a different direction each time and with your blades set high enough to keep your grass 3-3 and ½ inches tall.

Test your soil’s nutrient and pH levels every 2 years. Soil testing will let you know exactly what amendments to make in order to get a greener lawn. Home test kits are usually only reliable for pH levels, so order a lab test kit, collect samples, and send them in for testing. Search online for a local university or other soil testing lab, or contact your extension agent. Fall is usually the best time to take samples. That way, you'll have plenty of time to get your results and make any necessary amendments before growing season. Get a slow-release fertilizer that suits your soil’s needs. Your soil test will let you know if specific nutrient levels are low, medium, optimum, or high. Take the results to a gardening center or home improvement store in the fall or before the growing season. Ask them to recommend a fertilizer with a nutrient ratio that fits your needs. Go for slow-release fertilizer, so your lawn can absorb it over a longer period of time. before fertilizing it. Aerate your lawn An aerating tool makes small holes in the surface of your lawn, allowing water, nutrients and air to penetrate deeper into the soil. Aerate your lawn in the spring and fall, and be sure to aerate just before you fertilize. in the late spring and fall. Fertilize your lawn Contrary to popular belief, the best time to fertilize your lawn is in the fall, especially if you have established grass. During the fall, grass soaks up nutrients to store for the winter. Spread fertilizer evenly over your lawn according to your product's instructions. Avoid overfertilizing, which could kill your grass. If you have a patchy lawn or a soil test calls for it, spread slow-release fertilizer again in the late spring. If your lawn's density is good, just skip the spring feeding. if it’s too high or too low. Adjust your soil's pH Grass grows best at neutral pH levels between 6 and 7.2. If your soil test reveals your pH levels are outside that range, you'll need to add lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it. Fall or winter is the best time to amend your pH levels, since lime and sulfur can take a couple of months to work. Choose a variety of grass seed that’s suitable for your climate. Whether you're starting a new lawn or adding seed to a patchy existing lawn, you'll need the right seed for your location. Your local garden center or home improvement store can help you choose the right species. If don't know what kind of grass you have, you could use an identification resource, such as Purdue University's tool: https://turf.purdue.edu/tool/. You could also call a local garden center and ask if you could bring them a sample for identification help. suitable for your climate. Lay down sod Ask your local garden center or home improvement store to help you select sod that's best for your location. Till and amend your soil, level your yard's grade, then unroll your sod. Take care not to leave any empty patches as you unroll. Water it well after installation, and keep it wet for a week. After a week, water it thoroughly every other day for two to three weeks. Reseed during cooler weather. Whether you're filling in a patch or starting from scratch, your seed will have the best chances of sprouting in early spring or fall. Throwing down seed in the dog days of summer will most likely just waste time and money. The seed won't survive if the weather is too hot and dry. Avoid overseeding your lawn. Spread your seed evenly after amending your soil. Try to achieve a coverage concentration of 15 seeds per square inch (6.5 square centimeters). If you lay down too much seed, you'll have too many plants competing for resources. Water new seed once or twice a day. You'll need to water freshly reseeded patches or a newly seeded lawn more often than established grass. Keep newly seeded areas moist until grass grows in, and water them once or twice a day. Water deeply and less frequently. If you water an established lawn a little every day, your grass won't have any reason to develop a robust root system. Try watering for 30 minutes, then dig a spade into your lawn to see how deeply you've watered. Aim to penetrate 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep. Adjust how long you water according to your spade tests. Once you've figured how out long it takes to reach the best depth, you can set up a timer for your sprinklers. How frequently you water will depend on your soil and weather, but once or twice a week should do the trick. Sandy soil can be watered more often than heavy soil. In hot, dry periods, you might need to water every 2 or 3 days. Water your grass in the morning. The best time of the day to water your lawn is early in the morning. With less sun and cooler temperatures, the water will go through a natural evapotranspiration process, rather than evaporating before the soil can absorb it. Then, as the sun intensifies in the late morning, it will dry off the leaves, which helps prevent disease and moss. Keep your mower’s blades sharp. Inspect your blades regularly and sharpen them when necessary, which is usually after 15 to 20 hours of use. Dull blades waste fuel and hack away at your grass. If the tips of your grass are brown and ragged, chances are they're stressed from being shredded. Mow in a different direction each time you cut your grass. You shouldn't follow the same pattern every time you mow the lawn. Instead, vary the direction to avoid compacting the soil. Mowing in different directions also helps your grass stand up straight, rather than leaning the direction you always mow. For instance, mow east to west the first time, north to south the second time, and northwest to southeast the third time. Don’t cut your grass too short. Set your mower's blades high and keep your lawn's height between 3 and 3.5 inches (between 7.5 and 9 centimeters). Taller grass will help shade the roots, retain moisture, and keep weeds from growing. Some grasses should be kept shorter, so look online or check with your garden center to find out your species' ideal height. Leave your clippings after mowing. Lose the clipping bag! Leaving your clippings will provide your grass with a nutrient-rich, moisture-retaining mulch. It will help reduce your water use and keep your grass greener. If there are any spots thickly covered with clippings, lightly rake them evenly over your lawn. Don't cut wet grass, and remove clippings if they're dense and waterlogged. Thick clumps of soaked clippings will smother the grass beneath.

Test your soil’s nutrient and pH levels every 2 years. Get a slow-release fertilizer that suits your soil’s needs. before fertilizing it. in the late spring and fall. if it’s too high or too low. Choose a variety of grass seed that’s suitable for your climate. suitable for your climate. Reseed during cooler weather. Avoid overseeding your lawn. Water new seed once or twice a day. Water deeply and less frequently. Water your grass in the morning. Keep your mower’s blades sharp. Mow in a different direction each time you cut your grass. Don’t cut your grass too short. Leave your clippings after mowing.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Symphony

How to Write a Symphony

If you want to write a symphony, start by finding a source of inspiration, like the seasons, holidays, or even a person, and listen to symphonies by composers who you admire. Download a music writing software, and begin arranging the symphony, working in different movements that have a distinct sound to them. Occasionally, play back the music that you've written to hear how it sounds. Be sure to assign melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and intervals to each instrument that you are writing a part for.

Get inspired. The most important thing you'll need while writing your symphony is an idea. To generate ideas, you'll need to start thinking creatively. Set up a musical session with some of your instrument playing friends to improvise some potential melodies. Look back through old journals to remind yourself of feelings or life events that you might be able to use in your work. Keep a notebook with you at all times to record ideas. Whenever an idea comes to you, write it down immediately so you don't forget. Listen to composers you admire. Practice writing your music the way those composers wrote theirs. It isn't plagiarism to be inspired by someone else, and that inspiration fused with your own point of view will make it so that your music will sound completely like your own. Try to listen to a wide cross-section of different symphonies. Different composers have different styles and use different techniques. Listening to a lot of different styles of symphonies will help you become inspired to write your own. Check out the list of symphony composers on Wikipedia. The list is reasonably complete dating from the Baroque era to present and most composers on the list aren't well known. Pick your themes. Essentially, symphonies are musical stories, and should have characters, or, themes. These themes are then explored in different keys throughout the piece and in music, in what's known as exposition. Try to pick contrasting themes, like good versus evil. Create an outline. Symphonies are traditionally composed of four separate movements, which each have different forms. The first movement tends to be in Sonata form. The second movement is usually on the slower side and may be a set of variations. The third movement will generally be a Minuet or Scherzo and Trio. And the fourth movement is there to give the piece some closure and is often in rondo form. In your outline, list out everything you want to pin down about your symphony. This can include your inspiration, emotions, form, key and themes. List these out for each of your individual movements. Don't be afraid to make the form your own. If you want to create something different than the traditional four-movement symphony, do that. Sometimes composers swap the second and third movements. There have been three movement symphonies, usually omitting the minuet. There are five movement symphonies, often adding a March, or maybe another Scherzo or Minuet between the third and last movement. There are some with more than five movements, taking inspiration from Beethoven's 9th; the best known of these including the Romeo et Juliette symphony by Berlioz and Mahler's Symphonies. Rarer still are some with only two movements. Often symphonies have had a thematic material that ties all of the movements together since the romantic era which may stay the same or vary as well. Think outside the box and have fun with it. Gather your materials. In order to write, you will either need staff paper and a writing implement, such as a pencil or pen, or some kind of music writing software. Writing by hand is problematic because, in order to hear what you've played, you have to be able to play an instrument or you need to find someone else who can. With music notation software, you're able to hear what you've written immediately, using the computer playback. Some examples of music writing software include: Sibelius First, Finale and MagicScore Maestro. For free music writing software, try MuseScore and Lilypond. If you play or have access to an instrument, you can try playing your melodies using your instrument to hear how they sound before writing them down. Start writing. Using the outline you created earlier, construct each individual movement. While writing, you'll need to be constantly making decisions regarding different musical techniques and styles within your piece. Some of those techniques include: Dynamics Rhythms Intervals Harmonies Theme development Counterpoint Voice leading Orchestration Assign melodies to different instruments. Traditionally, symphonies are written for the following instrumental types: strings (violin, viola, cello, and bass) woodwinds (2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, and 2 bassoons) brass (2 French horn, 2 trumpets with a small orchestra) and percussion (2 tympani, triangle, and cymbal) for a small orchestra. A medium size is when you can add a piccolo, English horn, bass clarinet, contra bassoon to the woodwinds and double the number of French horns and add 3 trombone plus a tuba to the brass as well as extra percussion instruments. If you can go larger, go for it. You don't however, have to stick with traditional instrumentation. If the instruments are available and there are players to play them, feel free to use other instruments in your symphony either adding them or using them like different colors (eg. replace one traditional instrument with one non-traditional one). For example, the inventor of the saxophone family designed his instruments for the orchestra (built in the keys of B♭ and E♭) as well as the military band. You could also include an instrument that's been revived like one of the recorders, the viola da gamba or the oboe da caccia for example. Some symphonies also have vocal accompaniment. Try giving the same melodies to different instruments at different times to create a motif within the piece. Pay attention to layers and texture. There should never be any more than five layers happening at one time. Give yourself a couple days away from your symphony. Use this time to think about and do other things. Taking time away from your music will allow you to come back to it with fresh ears, so you can edit with a clear head. Re-listen and revise. Play through your symphony again. Take out anything that doesn't jar with your artistic vision. If you feel that your symphony is too long or too short, adjust accordingly. Try playing through your symphony on the piano. Even if you're not a skilled pianist, you should still be able to play the melodies. As a composer, playing through your music will help with making sure your piece isn't too muddled. It will also enable you to see what is in every register at all times. Invite your friends and other musicians you trust to perform and give feedback on your symphony. Listening to your symphony played all the way through will give you a whole slew of new insights on your work. Your friends and performers might also have suggestions of changes you can make that you might never have thought of yourself. Do not get defensive about their suggestions: they are only trying to help and you are not bound to utilize any of their feedback if you don't agree with it.

Get inspired. Listen to composers you admire. Pick your themes. Create an outline. Gather your materials. Start writing. Assign melodies to different instruments. Give yourself a couple days away from your symphony. Re-listen and revise. Invite your friends and other musicians you trust to perform and give feedback on your symphony.

https://www.wikihow.com/Express-Your-Feelings-to-the-One-You-Love

How to Express Your Feelings to the One You Love

If you want to express your feelings to the one you love, tell them how important they are to you. You can say something like “I'm so happy you're in my life,” or “When I have a bad day, you make it better the moment I see you.” If you find it nerve-wracking to say you love them, try writing a letter that sums up how you feel about them. Keep in mind that you can express your feelings through your actions as well as your words. For instance, do small thoughtful things for your love, like filling their car's gas tank, to show them you're thinking about them.

Say "I love you. " Telling someone you love them is the most sure-fire way to communicate your feelings, and the strength of those feelings. However, there are other ways to say, " I love you ," simply by switching up the language you use. For example, instead of saying the three words, “I love you,” you could say other meaningful things like, “I'm really happy you're in my life,” or “I feel lucky that I have you,” or “I love you for being you. These different expressions offer some variety by giving specifics as to why you love your partner, and give a breath of fresh air in expressing those three little words. Tell them how important they are. Sharing your feelings to your partner about the positive impact they have on your life is a clear way of showing the love and value you have for your partner. For instance, if your partner makes spending time with your family easier, let them know that they make that interaction easier for you. If you have a bad day at work, and the moment you see your partner you instantly feel a wave of relief, let them know that just seeing them immediately puts you in a better mood. If your loved one makes your life better or easier, communicating their influence on making your life richer, lets them know they are wanted, valued, and loved. Allow yourself to be vulnerable. Being vulnerable means expressing your thoughts and feelings wholeheartedly, without reserve. With that expression, comes the possibility of being criticized, hurt, rejected, etc. by your loved one. The important thing to remember is if you love someone, you opening up and wholeheartedly sharing yourself, expresses to your partner that them knowing the real you is worth the risk of you getting hurt. It is you making a self-sacrifice of security, for a deeper connection with them. Since sacrificing anything is not easy, being vulnerable with the one you love shows your commitment to the relationship. Ask for advice from your partner. Wanting advice from your partner communicates that you respect their opinion. It means you look to them for a sort of guidance, and it strengthens their understanding of their role in your life. which is a step in making your relationship stronger. It doesn't have to be something serious, although it can be. Just letting your partner know that you are interested in their opinion, and want to know how they would approach something allows them to see the respect you have for them. Vent your feelings to each other. If your partner is obviously nervous, upset, worried, or concerned about something, ask them to vent and share their feelings to you. Let your partner know that you want them to be able to let their guard down and spill what is on their mind. Sometimes, people just need have a rant about what is bothering them. Let your partner know that you are there to listen to what they have to say. It shows your loved one that they can just let loose about how they are feeling, and you are there to be their outlet and listener. While they're expressing their feelings to you, make sure you are completely there and in the moment. This means refraining from looking at your phone or any other kind of distraction and being focused on what your partner is saying. Be attentive to how they're feeling when telling you what is bothering them, and give thoughtful feedback. If you find yourself at a loss for words, a strong and meaningful hug can always show you're there for your loved one. Tell each other your secrets. Sharing your secrets is a small way of telling someone you love that they have your trust. People don't share their secrets with just anyone, so trusting someone with your intimate feelings and thoughts is a true sign of a caring, loving relationship. Sharing secrets creates an inner circle of just you two, reinforcing a greater bond between you and your partner. Always be honest. Being honest with the one you love could sometimes difficult, especially if you are trying to not hurt their feelings. However, speaking the truth, even when it hurts, increases your ability to level and find connection with your partner. It shows that you rather be truthful and real, rather than phony and comforting. It's a sign of respect to your partner that you are honest with how you feel, while taking into consideration that it might not be the most comfortable option. Just remember to be gentle with truth. The truth may be hard to hear, but it doesn't have to come off mean. Encourage your partner. As your partner's partner, it's safe to say that it's your responsibility — as well as in the best interest of the relationship — to show your love, encourage, and help your partner achieve their dreams and goals in life. By providing a supportive environment, you stimulate your partner to be the best version of themselves and go after what they want. You can encourage your partner by saying things like, "I believe that you can do this," "You're a hard worker, and that hard work is going to get recognized," or "All of your efforts are going to pay off soon." Supporting your partner, and pushing for their success shows your love in words of reinforcement. Write a letter. Sometimes writing an old school love letter is a romantic way to show your feelings. Writing a letter can also help articulate feelings and emotions you've been having, by letting your stream of consciousness do the "talking". Think about what you want to accomplish with this letter. What do you want your loved one to know? Begin with saying why you're writing them a letter. For example, you can say something like, “I was thinking about you, and how much I enjoy being around you…” or “Being around you is always so much fun, and I wanted to let you know…” Mention stories and memories that bring back good feelings. Just remember to write what you love about them, how they make you feel, and why you're happy to be with them. Writing a letter by hand is your best bet to show that what you have to say is meaningful, because it takes more effort that typing up a note or text message. Also, your personal handwriting shows through which gives a nice touch of genuineness. Listen. Often, not enough credit is given for being able to focus, and really listen to someone when they speak, and then give an attentive, meaningful reply. When you really listen to someone, you are focused on only that person, giving them your full and undivided attention. Although it's a simple act, listening is a very powerful act of caring that shows you are there to help your partner through whatever they are dealing with. Listening to your partner reinforces the idea that you two are a team together, and you are there when your partner needs help. Carry out acts of service. Anything you can do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing down on your loved one will speak volumes as to how much you care for them and love them. Doing things like running out to get breakfast before they wake up, filling up the gas in their car, or washing their dishes in the sink, are all small ways to show your loved one you are always thinking about them. Be considerate. Being considerate means thinking about the feelings of your partner in everything that you do. Decisions you make about certain things should be made with your partner in mind. For example, if you're going camping, bring extra sleeping mats for your partner, because you know they have a difficult time sleeping on hard surfaces. Or, if you're going on a picnic, pack some extras of your partner's favorite snack as a surprise. Set aside time for quality interaction. Everyone has busy lives that we sometimes get wrapped up in, but making an effort to share quality time with your loved one is an easy way to reconnect and show your loved one where your priorities stand. Use this time to share with each other, go on a walk, or make dinner together. It's really not about the amount of time you share together, but the quality of that time. It doesn't have to have a strict schedule, but the fact that you made the effort at all is what really counts. Embrace your inner child. As adults, life can get monotonous and boring at times. To combat this, keep your inner child alive. Incorporate surprises into your life, be spontaneous and try new things. This might not seem like a direct display of love, but by keeping things fun in your relationship, it shows that you are working to always have an enjoyable time with your loved one. Go on an adventure together that will create memories and stories for times to come. Touch your partner affectionately. Everyone is different with the level of "touchy-ness" that they prefer, but small, affectionate touches can communicate your love in a subtler, physical way. Things like holding hands, playful touches on the arm, or putting your head on their shoulder, are small ways to express your feelings of closeness and love. Give hugs. Hugs give people a physical sense of security, and can literally make someone feel like they are wrapped in love. Hugs are easy to execute, and are appropriate to do in public, which makes them ideal for telling your partner you love them out in the world. Hugs using both arms and facing your loved one are the most romantic. Other kinds of hugs (one armed hugs, side hugs), are more casual and don't hold that much meaning. A good, meaningful hug usually last a little longer. 5-7 seconds is usually a good amount of time to express your feelings in a hug. Cuddle with your partner. It's no secret that cuddling with your loved one feels good, and just like hugging, this brief break from the stress of your everyday life will communicate your love by taking time to focus solely on your partner, and what you feel for them. Give your partner a massage. Giving your partner a massage could be something as simple as rubbing your partner's back while you two watch a movie, running your fingers through their hair, or having your partner lay back, and place their head in your lap as your massage their shoulders and neck. Don't be afraid to show your love with touch. Touching is just another way people can sense love. Building up confidence. Just be yourself when you want to interact with your crush. You don't want to build your relationship off of lies and pretending to be someone you're not, so let your personality shine through. Sometimes, when you stuck about things to talk about, ask your crush about themselves or give them a compliment. You can say something like, "What sports do you like to play?" or "You did really good on your presentation today." The easiest subjects to talk about with your crush are things you have in common, like classes, places you've traveled, or favorite restaurants. Talking about things you have in common will lighten the mood and help you relax. Let your body language speak for itself. Touching anybody is a sign of closeness. So, a subtle way to express to your crush that you like them is to break the touch barrier. Light touches are the best way to go to get your message across without coming off too strong. For example, if you're talking with your crush or passing by them, you can give them a light touch on the upper arm. If you're sitting next to your crush, you can casually let your feet or knees touch every once and smile to show your feelings. Just a little bit physical attention will let your crush know that you like them. Touching you crush lightly just once or twice during a conversation is sufficient enough to let your crush know how you're feeling. Write a letter. It can sometimes be hard to verbalize your feelings to someone you like, so writing a love letter is an easy way to express how you feel without having to do it in person. Just like in the previous method, begin your letter by stating your inspiration for writing the letter. For instance, you can begin with, "I've really enjoyed getting to know you better over these past couple of months..." or "I just wanted to let you know that over this past year, you have become one of my best friends...” In our day and age of technology, typing out a text message or Facebook message is easy. Writing a letter by hand is more sincere and requires a bit more effort. Because of the added effort, your gesture is that much more appealing to your crush. Keep it light. You letter can start off casual, and you can write about a few inside jokes that the two of you have together or fun times that you've experienced together. From there, you can dive right in, and explain the reason for the letter, telling your crush you have feelings for them. You can say something like, "I just wanted to tell you that I like you, and I really like hanging out with you." Keep it short and sweet. You don't want to go too much into how much you like your crush or why, before you have your answer as to how they feel about you. Tell your crush your feelings in person. Pick a place that's stress-free where it would be appropriate to talk alone, make eye contact, and simply tell your crush how you feel. You can make some small talk, but after a while jump right in and tell them how you feel. You can give a compliment or two while your telling your crush how you feel. For example, "I really like you. Nobody makes me laugh like you do." After you tell your crush how you feel, give them time to react and process what you've said. Don't immediate ask them how they feel or what they think. You don't want to come off too intense. Give your crush some time to react and respond, and try not to put the pressure on them. Respond appropriately. Once you say how you feel, your crush will either say that they share your feelings, or want to just stay friends. If your crush shares your feelings don't be afraid to your excitement. It's okay to be silly and giddy after you and your crush tell each other how you feel. If your crush just wants to be friends, be mature and say something like, "Okay, I just wanted to let you know." It will hurt, but you always want to leave a good impression. Although you will be upset, try to act like it wasn't a big deal, and wait until you have some privacy to be sad about it. Once you know your crush likes you back, you can ask your crush on a casual date by offering to go see a movie together, or catch a baseball game. This will offer up some time for the both of you to get to know each other better. If your crush doesn't share your feelings, at least you had the confidence to take a chance. There are plenty of other opportunities to find someone right for you.

Say "I love you. Tell them how important they are. Allow yourself to be vulnerable. Ask for advice from your partner. Vent your feelings to each other. Tell each other your secrets. Always be honest. Encourage your partner. Write a letter. Listen. Carry out acts of service. Be considerate. Set aside time for quality interaction. Embrace your inner child. Touch your partner affectionately. Give hugs. Cuddle with your partner. Give your partner a massage. Building up confidence. Let your body language speak for itself. Write a letter. Keep it light. Tell your crush your feelings in person. Respond appropriately.

https://www.wikihow.com/Trim-Parrot-Claws

How to Trim Parrot Claws

To trim parrot claws, wrap the bird's body up gently in a towel, taking care to leave its head and feet uncovered. Next, place your finger near your bird's feet and let it to grasp onto your finger. Then, use your thumb to lift each individual nail, hold it in place, and use a nail trimmer to cut off the tips. Be sure to trim off a small amount of nail at time and keep your distance from the quick! Finally, praise your parrot verbally and give it a treat.

Make sure your parrot has bonded with you. You should know your bird's body language before attempting to trim its claws. If your bird does not feel comfortable with you, you should wait until you've bonded with it a bit before trimming its claws. The experience will be more traumatic if your bird doesn't trust you. If your bird sings, talks, or whistles in your presence, this is a sign it is comfortable with you. If your bird flaps its wings in your presence, this is also a good sign. Your bird is attempting to get your attention and is happy to see you. Your parrot may also wag its tail, much like a dog, to convey happiness. Gather all your materials ahead of time. Your bird may squirm or show signs of distress during the clipping process. Therefore, have your materials ready to go before you begin clipping your bird's nails. You do not want to have to be scrambling for anything while you work. You will need a pair of nail clippers. You can usually use nail clippers made for people as long as the blade is strong enough. If your parrot has particularly tough nails, try toenail clippers. You will need some kind of blood stopping powder in the event your bird starts bleeding. You can find this at a pet store. Make sure the powder is safe to use on birds. You will need a towel. Make sure it's a plain color, like white, as birds may be frightened of colorful towels. Get your bird used to the towel. Do not immediately wrap your bird in the towel. This will cause too much anxiety. Instead, allow your bird to get accustomed to the towel on its own. Lay the towel down on your hand. Coax the bird to crawl on the towel. Call it softly and say things like, "Good bird" as it approaches the towel. Let the bird stand on the towel for a few minutes. You want it to be comfortable with the towel before proceeding. Wrap the bird in the towel. You need to do this carefully to avoid injuring the bird. You do not want to put pressure on the bird's chest as you wrap it in the towel. Drape the towel over the bird's back. Leave its head uncovered. Hold the bird at its sides without touching its chest. Wrap the towel around the bird's body. Hold the bird's head with your other hand. This will prevent it from biting. Place your thumb on one side of the head, and your index finger on the other. Hold the bird firmly enough that it cannot turn its head. Have a friend help, if necessary. You may not be able to trim your bird's nails on your own. Your friend can wrap the bird in the towel while you trim its nails. Allow your bird to grasp onto your finger. Your bird's feet should be exposed at the bottom of the towel. Place your finger near your bird's feet. Allow it to grasp onto your finger on its own. This may take a few minutes, so be patient. If the bird grasps onto your finger on its own, this reduces the stress of the clipping process. Lift each nail with your thumb. You want to clip the nails one by one. Once the bird has grasped onto your finger, use your thumb to lift each individual nail. Hold the nail in place with your thumb as you clip. Identify the quick. This is vital to your bird's safety. The quick is the nerve ending in the nail. If you cut into the quick, your bird will bleed. It is possible for a bird to die if it bleeds during the clipping process. If your bird has clear or light colored nails, the quick should be easy to find. The quick is pink, and you should be able to see it in the nails. With dark colored nails, this can be trickier. Just trim a small amount of the nail at a time. With darker nails, you should only ever trim off the tips of the nails as the risk of accidentally cutting into the quick is higher. Trim your bird's nails. Simply use the nail trimmer to cut off the tips of the bird's nails. Trim off a small amount of nail at time, keeping a good distance from the quick. You should only trim a small amount of your bird's nails to avoid hitting the quick. Trimming the tips is usually sufficient. You should also give the bird verbal praise for behaving during the clipping process. Give your parrot treats after clipping its nails. You want your parrot to associate nail trimming with happy, positive things. This will make it more likely to behave next time. When you're done clipping your bird's nails, offer treats as a reward. Have blood stopping powder on hand. Rub the bird's nail in the blood stopping powder immediately if bleeding occurs. Then, get your bird to a veterinarian's office. Birds can bleed to death from this kind of injury. Stop if your bird becomes extremely distressed. Birds can actually have physical reactions to stress. If you notice your bird is struggling to breathe, stop attempting to clip its nails. You will have to try another time. If your bird is panting, or if its eyes are rolling back into its head, stop. Put your bird back in its cage until it calms down. Speak in a soothing tone to encourage your bird to relax. You should also stop trimming if your bird is squirming too much. If a bird will not keep still, this increases the risk of injury. Have a veterinarian trim your parrot's nails if you cannot do it. You may not feel comfortable clipping your parrot's nails. If this is the case, take your bird to a vet. It's better to spend the extra money having professional help than risk injuring your bird.

Make sure your parrot has bonded with you. Gather all your materials ahead of time. Get your bird used to the towel. Wrap the bird in the towel. Allow your bird to grasp onto your finger. Lift each nail with your thumb. Identify the quick. Trim your bird's nails. Give your parrot treats after clipping its nails. Have blood stopping powder on hand. Stop if your bird becomes extremely distressed. Have a veterinarian trim your parrot's nails if you cannot do it.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Healthy-Skin

How to Get Healthy Skin

To get healthy skin, exfoliate twice a week, which will help remove dead skin and reveal fresh, healthy skin underneath. Also, moisturize your skin regularly to keep it hydrated and improve its tone and texture. On top of exfoliating and moisturizing, eat lots of fruits and vegetables so you're getting the vitamins and nutrients that your skin needs. Try to avoid eating foods that are high in sugar since sugar can make your skin look unhealthy.

Wash regularly, but not too often. Your skin is covered in a layer of dead skin, oil, and good bacteria that help prevent harmful things from entering your body. Showering washes this layer away. Clean skin is important for good hygiene, but washing too frequently is unnecessary and can make it more difficult for your skin to protect your body from contaminants and infections. Generally, people don't need to shower more than every other day or every three days. You may want to consider showering more often if you work with the public or the infirm, take public transit daily, or have a physical job that requires exertion. Consider showering after exercising and sports. Have short showers or baths in warm water. Bathing in hot water and for too long strips helpful and necessary oils from your skin, and it can aggravate certain skin conditions like rosacea and eczema. Use mild hypoallergenic cleansers. Just like hot water, strong soaps will remove oil from your skin and leave you feeling tight and dry. When you do bathe, choose mild soaps or cleansers that don't contain artificial fragrances. Look for soaps that: Contain soothing and moisturizing ingredients like aloe, witch hazel, and vegetable oils, and herbs or botanicals such as chamomile, lavender, rosemary, and peppermint. Don't contain sodium lauryl sulfate or alcohol, which can both dry out your skin. Match your skin type. For instance, if you have dry skin, look for moisturizing soaps. For sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic soap. Clean your skin without stripping away skin and oil. Pat your skin dry. Instead of rubbing dry with a towel when you've finished bathing, gently pat your skin with a towel and let the remaining moisture air dry. This will ensure you leave a layer of oil on your skin that will help keep in moisture and prevent dryness. Exfoliate once or twice a week. This will remove the top layer of dead skin and reveal the fresh, new, radiant skin below, giving your skin a healthy, glowing appearance. Avoid using acidic substances such as lemon or tomato juice on your skin and especially your face, as they can strip away your skin's natural oils and make you more sensitive to the sun. However, products with alpha hydroxy acids, which are specially formulated for use on the skin, can be gentle and effective exfoliants. Try dry brushing to stimulate and invigorate your skin. Regular cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturizing can help prevent breakouts and blemishes, and keep your skin looking young and healthy. For dry skin, look for an exfoliating product that has no additional cleansing agents (or very mild ones) and a moisturizer. For oily skin, choose a balancing exfoliating product that also offers deep scrubbing. Moisturize regularly. Along with keeping moisture against the skin, which keeps it from drying out, moisturizers also protect the skin and improve its tone and texture. Consider using a moisturizer that has an SPF rating for some additional sun-protection. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, olive oil can also be applied topically to the skin as a natural moisturizer. Sweet almond, coconut, jojoba, and argan oil also work as moisturizers, as do Shea and cocoa butter. You can use these products on their own, or look for moisturizers that contain them. Note that coconut oil, olive oil, and shea and coconut butters can be comedogenic and are not advisable for use on the face in people with acne- or blackhead-prone skin. Look for lotions or gels instead of creams if you have oily skin, but opt for creams if you have dry skin. For acne-prone skin, look for moisturizers that contain salicylic acid. But if you have sensitive skin, look for calming ingredients like green tea, vitamin C, and aloe. Eat your fruits and vegetables. Eating foods that come in all the colors of the rainbow ensures that you will get the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are vital for good health. Fruits and vegetables will help promote healthy skin because they promote a healthy body. Eating a diet that's rich in these foods can lead to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure, can regulate blood sugar and weight, and aid with digestion. Eat dark, leafy green vegetables. Eat brightly colored foods that are orange, blue, yellow, red, and purple. Tomatoes, for instance, are great for the skin because eating them can help protect it from sun damage, make your skin smoother, and boost collagen. Eat skin-friendly foods. Foods rich in antioxidants, selenium, coenzyme Q10, and flavonoids all promote healthy bodies and radiant skin. Antioxidants and selenium prevent damage done by free radicals, which are thought to contribute to wrinkles, tissue damage, and dry skin. Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant produced by your body. Flavonoids are the by-product of plant growth, and have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Foods that are high in antioxidants include whole grains, berries, apricots, beets, squash and sweet potatoes, tangerines, beans, and olive oil. Foods that contain selenium include whole-wheat pasta, Brazil nuts, button mushrooms, beef and turkey, oysters, shrimp and crab, snapper and cod, and some other fish. Coenzyme Q10 can be found in whole grains, fish, organ meats, and soybean, canola, and sesame oils. Flavonoids can be found in things like dark chocolate and green tea. Consume foods high in vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins provide different benefits, but they all contribute to healthy skin. Vitamin C can boost the collagen and elastin in your skin, and these proteins prevent wrinkles, lines, and sagging. Vitamin A helps keep your skin fresh and glowing by preventing dryness, reducing dark spots, and smoothing wrinkles. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that fights the damage done by free radicals. Foods rich in vitamin C include peppers, citrus fruits, dark green vegetables, papaya, and kiwi. You can also try strawberries, pumpkin, and pomegranate for high doses of this wrinkle-fighting vitamin. Foods packed with vitamin A include dark leafy greens, oranges, carrots, cantaloupe, and eggs. Vitamin E can be found in nuts and seeds, olives, dark leafy greens, and vegetable oils. Get your omegas. Fats are necessary for healthy skin, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids keep skin bright and moisturized, and prevent dryness and blemishes. Good sources of these essential fatty acids include: Walnuts Olive and canola oil Flaxseeds Sardines, mackerel, and salmon Drink water. The skin, like every part of the body, needs proper hydration to function optimally. Sufficient hydration can prevent dryness and flakiness, which will prevent wrinkling and make lines less noticeable. The traditional guideline for water consumption is eight cups (one cup is equal to eight ounces, or 235 ml) per day. However, fruits and vegetables contain water, so eating them counts toward your daily hydration. The best rule of thumb is to listen to your body about water consumption, so if you're thirsty, drink up! Avoid added sugars. Sugar in your diet can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. Sugar molecules attach themselves to protein molecules, and when this happens it can damage collagen and elastin. While there are many foods that are good for you—such as fruit—that contain sugar, watch for added sugar in processed and pre-made foods. If you crave something sugary, opt for fruits or sweeter vegetables like sweet potatoes. Replace sugar in recipes or drinks with Stevia or a similar sweetener. Exercise on a regular basis. This is essential for healthy lungs, your cardiovascular system, and your body as a whole, including your skin. Exercise helps your skin because it improves circulation, increases the flow of nutrients to the skin, and removes dirt from the skin's surface. Furthermore, it may also slow the skin's aging process. Be sure to rehydrate your body after a good workout. Relax and unwind. Stress can wreak havoc on your skin and body as well as your mind, and the hormones your body releases in response to stress can exacerbate things like acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema. Furthermore, stress can increase healing time in your body, so breakouts will take longer to go away. Yoga and meditation can be beneficial for your skin because they are both stress-relieving activities. Don’t smoke. Smoking, like stress, has a negative impact on your health, skin, and appearance. Smoking decreases blood flow, which is necessary for healthy skin. It also damages collagen and elastin, while the physical motions associated with smoking lead to wrinkles around the mouth and eyes. Get enough sleep. Sleep is important for many reasons, and healthy skin is just one of them. For one, when we sleep, our bodies secrete certain growth hormones, and this leads to collagen production. Protect your skin from the sun. While a minimal amount of UV exposure is necessary for vitamin D production (20 minutes is enough for most people ), too much sun can damage your skin and lead to skin cancer. Furthermore, sun damage also causes the signs of premature aging, including freckles, age spots, and wrinkles, and it destroys collagen and elastin. Avoid the sun when it's strongest, which is generally between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Seek shade any time you find yourself out in the sun. Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF between 30 and 50 all year round. Choose cosmetics and moisturizers with an SPF as well. Wear protective clothing that has a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating. Wear long-sleeved shirts with high collars, pants, and wide-brimmed hats. Use an infrared (IR) sauna to reduce wrinkles and increase collagen. IR saunas use infrared radiation to increase the amount of collagen your body produces and therefore reducing the amount of wrinkles you have. Some users have also noticed improved skin tone after repeated uses. Though research studies have proved that it is effective and safe, long-term exposure to infrared radiation has not been fully studied for treatments. Keep an eye out for signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells caused by DNA mutations, and the primary cause of these mutations is UV exposure. If you notice irregular changes in your skin or notice moles that weren't there before, talk to your doctor immediately. The most common signs to look for that indicate cancer or precancerous cells are: Moles that have irregular borders or asymmetrical features, have more than one color, or change over time. Sores and lumps that are not caused by bites, scrapes, scratches, or bumps. Blemishes, markings, or changes in the appearance or texture of your skin. Seek professional help for irregular skin issues. It's important to be aware of things that irritate your skin, allergens, and other sensitivities so that you can distinguish between a regular reaction to something versus a skin change or condition that requires the attention of a doctor or dermatologist. There are many issues that can plague the skin, and you should seek medical attention if you notice symptoms including: Unexplained hives, blisters, rashes, or scaling Weeping or oozing sores or pustules Chronic inflammation, redness, itching, or discoloration Moles, bumps, or scaly tumors (warts) that won't go away Focus on treating your biggest skin concern first, not all of them at once. Using too many anti-aging products can actually over-stress your skin, making it look even older. No one product can fight wrinkles, dark spots, and tightness all by itself, so don't try and tackle them all at once. Pick the issue you most want to handle and focus your time and money on that -- you'll get the best results. If a product irritates your skin, stop using it. Skin ages naturally, and you cannot stop this process with every cream and technique in the world. Instead, focus on keeping your skin healthy -- it will look young as a result. Buy a moisturizer suited for your skin type and use it daily. Daily moisturizing is one of the keys to healthy skin at any age, but it becomes even more important as you age. Your skin will naturally dry out over time, but you can keep it healthy by using a well-formulated moisturizer each day to keep your skin young and supple. No one product works for everyone, so get one that sounds appropriate for you. Get a moisturizer with SPF 15-30 to help protect your skin against UV light for the best results. There are specially formulated moisturizers for dry, oily, sensitive, wrinkled, and many more types of skin. Getting one that feels right for your skin will help get the best results the fastest. Eat a skin-healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The more vitamins and minerals you can get from your diet, the better. This only becomes more important as you age. However, you should consider taking a supplement as well if you are worried that you aren't getting enough skin-healthy nutrients. Good foods to aim for include: Leafy greens, like spinach and lettuce. Fish, especially those high in Omega-3's (salmon, freshwater whitefish, etc.) Berries, which are generally high in anti-oxidants. Apply topical antioxidants to fight sun damage, wrinkles, and dark spots. Anti-oxidants help prevent "free radicals" from damaging your skin's DNA. Luckily, anti-oxidants are made up of natural vitamins and minerals and are found abundantly in nature. While a diet high in antioxidants is important, you can also apply some it topically, right to your skin, for great skin health: Vitamin C serum Acai oil Green tea extract Retinol Use creams containing alpha-hydroxy acid to fight skin damage due to old age. These products are considered great, safe ways to exfoliate your skin, remove unsightly dark spots and dead skin, and help your skin stay young. Look for creams with a 5-10% concentration of one of the following alpha-hydroxy acids, using once a day and gradually upping the frequency if it is comfortable: Glycolic acid Citric acid Lactic acid Malic acid Avoid "miracle cures" or overly-hyped results. Many skin-care products claim they can "completely erase wrinkles" or turn back the clock twenty years on your skin. If these products really delivered on those promises, however, you would never see another wrinkle again. Keep your expectations low -- your goal should be healthy, happy skin, not the same skin you had when you were thirty. Even claims like "clinically proven" are actually baseless -- "clinically proven" just means that consumers were allowed to try the product before it was sold. Continue to take care of your skin with sunscreen, hydration, and regular skin cancer checks. As you age, taking care of your skin becomes just as important. Your skin care habits don't need to change radically as you get older. Remain vigilant about sunscreen, drink plenty of water each day, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of sleep. If you keep these habits throughout your life your skin will remain vibrant and youthful.

Wash regularly, but not too often. Have short showers or baths in warm water. Use mild hypoallergenic cleansers. Pat your skin dry. Exfoliate once or twice a week. Moisturize regularly. Eat your fruits and vegetables. Eat skin-friendly foods. Consume foods high in vitamins A, C, and E. Get your omegas. Drink water. Avoid added sugars. Exercise on a regular basis. Relax and unwind. Don’t smoke. Get enough sleep. Protect your skin from the sun. Use an infrared (IR) sauna to reduce wrinkles and increase collagen. Keep an eye out for signs of skin cancer. Seek professional help for irregular skin issues. Focus on treating your biggest skin concern first, not all of them at once. Buy a moisturizer suited for your skin type and use it daily. Eat a skin-healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Apply topical antioxidants to fight sun damage, wrinkles, and dark spots. Use creams containing alpha-hydroxy acid to fight skin damage due to old age. Avoid "miracle cures" or overly-hyped results. Continue to take care of your skin with sunscreen, hydration, and regular skin cancer checks.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Smoothies-Thicker

How to Make Smoothies Thicker

To make your smoothie thicker, try using fruits or vegetables. One option is to add frozen fruits rather than fresh fruits to your smoothie. You can also add avocado, which creates a creamy texture. If you're looking for a fruity, refreshing taste, choose mango. Your smoothie can also be thickened with nuts. Add a spoonful of nut butter, such as peanut or almond, which will give you extra protein as well as thickening your drink. Alternatively, add a scoop of chia seeds, since they're great at absorbing liquid. Another option you can try is to use greek yogurt instead of milk.

Use frozen fruit to thicken the smoothie. Rather than using fresh bananas, berries, or other fruits, stick them in the freezer overnight. Purchasing frozen fruits is often cheaper than fresh ones, and you'll be able to find things that may not be in season and therefore aren't available fresh. There are even frozen fruit combos, so it's never been easier to add a handful of papaya, guava, and pineapple, or blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries to your smoothie. Add avocado for a creamy texture. Avocados are great additions to any smoothie. They add a creaminess as well as thicken up the smoothie and their taste is easily masked by other flavors. Simply remove the skin and seed, slice the avocado and toss it in the blender with the rest of your ingredients, like kale, celery, and juice. Try mango for a refreshing flavor. Adding mango is a light and refreshing way to thicken your smoothie. It's also low in fat and high in vitamin C. Combine mango chunks with coconut milk, pineapple, raspberries, and ice for a fruity, sweet smoothie. Increase your potassium with a banana. A banana is the go-to ingredient for many smoothies. You can combine one with berries and other fruits, as well as oats, nut butter, and protein powder. Not only will a banana thicken your smoothie, it also adds potassium and fiber to the drink. Boost the richness with pumpkin puree. Pumpkin puree adds a delightful taste of fall while also thickening up your smoothie. Try a smoothie made from almond milk, pumpkin puree, bananas, and cinnamon. You could even sweeten it with a little honey, if desired. Add a scoop of nut butter for added protein. Nut butter, like cashew, almond, or peanut, add thickness and protein to any smoothie. They also provide a creamy, nutty flavor that adds another layer to your drink. Add a tablespoon or more in addition to ingredients like milk and banana. Put in a scoop of chia seeds to increase the fiber. Chia seeds absorb tons of liquid, so this is a surefire way to thicken your smoothie. They are also full of fiber and fatty acids, so they make a nutritious addition to any recipe. Try mixing blueberries, chia seeds, almond milk, and cinnamon. Toss in some oats to keep you full. Oats not only add a thickness to your smoothie, they also help keep you full for hours. Choose from instant, rolled, or steel-cut oats, all of which have the same nutritional value. Combine them with banana, berries, and coconut milk for a delicious drink. Use flax seeds to sweeten your smoothie. Flax seeds have a sweet and nutty flavor, and also add fiber and Omega-3s. Use a coffee grinder to break up the flax seeds before blending them into your smoothie. They taste great when mixed with yogurt, peanut butter, honey, and bananas. Use xanthan gum without changing the flavor. The great thing about xanthan gum is that it won't change the flavor of your smoothie. It's a tasteless, plant-based fiber that thickens and emulsifies liquids. You can add ¼ teaspoon to any smoothie, regardless of the ingredients, to thicken your drink naturally. Add protein with a scoop of powder. Protein powder not only adds a shot of protein to your morning smoothie, it also thickens up the drink. Mix vanilla protein powder with almond milk, coffee, and banana for a filling and invigorating morning smoothie. Try gelatin for added health benefits. Not only can you thicken a smoothie with gelatin, it's also great for your hair, nails, and joints. Add a small scoop to a smoothie made from kale, celery, apples, and almond milk. Gelatin is tasteless, so you don't have to worry about it changing your favorite flavors. Don’t use as much liquid. If you have a recipe you love but think it's a bit too thin, simply cut back on the amount of liquid you're using. Try reducing it by one quarter and see if you're happy with the smoothie's texture. If not, add a thickener such as xanthan gum, and use less liquid the next time. Use greek yogurt instead of milk. Using Greek yogurt in place of your liquid ingredient, like milk or coconut milk, adds texture and thickness to a smoothie. Greek yogurt tastes great combined with berries and bananas. You can use regular yogurt instead of Greek, if you prefer. Freeze your liquids. Rather than adding a liquid to your smoothie, freeze some of your favorite liquid in ice cube trays. You could do this with milk, juice, cream, almond milk, or coconut milk. Then, simply toss the frozen cubes into your smoothie and blend it to thicken it up!

Use frozen fruit to thicken the smoothie. Add avocado for a creamy texture. Try mango for a refreshing flavor. Increase your potassium with a banana. Boost the richness with pumpkin puree. Add a scoop of nut butter for added protein. Put in a scoop of chia seeds to increase the fiber. Toss in some oats to keep you full. Use flax seeds to sweeten your smoothie. Use xanthan gum without changing the flavor. Add protein with a scoop of powder. Try gelatin for added health benefits. Don’t use as much liquid. Use greek yogurt instead of milk. Freeze your liquids.

https://www.wikihow.com/Refinish-Bathtubs

How to Refinish Bathtubs

To refinish a bathtub, you'll need a bathtub reglazer or finish, which you can find for both spray-on and paint-on applications. When you're ready to get started, cut away all of the old caulk on your tub using a putty knife and clean the tub with a commercial cleaner. Then, tape off the edges of the tub and cover anything you don't want to refinish with plastic. Finally, apply 3 coats of the reglazer or finish to your bathtub, letting it dry for 15 minutes in between each coat. When you're finished, let the tub dry for at least 24 hours before using it again.

Turn on your bathroom fan and open the doors and windows. The fumes from the cleaning agents and bathtub reglazers are dangerous, so it's important that you ensure your bathroom is well ventilated before getting started. You should also open the doors and windows in the rooms adjacent to the bathroom for air flow. If you don't have a fan or a window, be sure to open as many windows in the adjacent room as possible to increase airflow and allow the fumes to exit. Use a box fan to increase air flow. The fan will not only help to ensure air is being circulated through the bathroom, but it will also help to dry the bathtub faster. The tub will need to be completely dry before moving on from a number of steps in the refinishing process. Place the box fan in the window for maximum circulation. If you don't have a bathroom window, place it in the bathroom doorway instead. Use a putty knife to cut away the caulk sealing the tub. All the caulk will have to be removed before you can refinish the tub. Most of the caulk will be in the seam where the tub meets the wall and the floor, but there may also be a strip that's sealing any glass shower doors over the tub. To remove the caulk, slice into it with the edge of the putty knife lengthwise, like you're splitting it in half. Continue to slice into the caulk like that until it becomes loose enough to cut out. Once there are a number of slices through the caulk, it will be easier to use the putty knife to pry up and remove the caulk. Remove any remaining caulk with a razor blade and sandpaper. A razor blade isn't very effective for large deposits of caulk, but it will do wonders on hard to remove, thin layers than remain after most of the caulk has been removed. Most caulk can be found where the tub meets the wall, but in bathtub showers with glass doors instead of a shower curtain, there may also be caulk where the door fixtures meet the tub. Press the razor into the tub surface at a 45 degree angle, then slide it into the caulk repeatedly to scrape it up. If any proves harder to remove, scrape it off with 120 grit sandpaper. This may be the longest, hardest portion of the job, as all the caulk needs to be removed. Rinse or brush away the caulk as you remove it so you can easily see what you're doing. Use commercial tub cleaner on the entire tub. With all of the caulk removed, spray a commercial strength bathtub cleaner over the entire tub surface. Then use a clean rag or sponge to thoroughly clean the tub. You may have to repeat this step more than once to get all of the soap scum and grime out of an old tub. It must be completely clean before moving on. Inspect the tub for any leftover silicone, caulk, or grime. Once you're finished, take a step back and make sure you haven't missed anything. Any grime, caulk, or debris left in the tub will prevent the new finish from sealing properly. If you spot anything still in the tub, repeat the appropriate step to clean or scrape it away. Tape off the edges of the tub with masking tape. Some bathtubs are not freestanding fixtures and are housed within a painted housing. If your bathtub is set within a wood or plaster housing, use painters tape to tape off the edges of the tub to prevent the new bathtub reglazing from getting on anything other than the tub itself. If your bathtub is free standing, you can skip this step. Wrap the spout, handles and anything else that’s not the tub in plastic. Everything that's staying in your bathtub that isn't the bathtub itself needs to be covered before you start the refinishing process. Make sure the shower head, any exposed plumbing, bath nozzle and anything else you don't want refinished is covered in plastic. Once you cover things in plastic, use painters tape to secure the plastic in place. Use paper or plastic to cover the walls of the shower. The walls of the shower should be covered if they're not a part of the tub itself. You can hang masking paper or loose plastic from the wall using painters tape to secure it in place. If the shower walls are a part of the bathtub, you may want to refinish them along with the tub, rather than taping them off. Apply a bonding agent to the surface of the tub if it’s made of iron. Iron tubs need a bonding agent to help the new finish seal in place. Some bonding agents can be painted on while others need to be sprayed on. Follow the directions on the agent you purchase closely for good results. You can buy bonding agents for iron tubs at your local hardware store. Be sure the bonding agent is completely dry before applying the new finish. Mix some reglazer per its instructions. Reglazer, or finish, is like a thick paint that you'll apply to the tub to serve as its new surface. Some tub glazes come in self contained cans for you to spray on, while others are meant to be mixed and applied using rollers or paint brushes. If yours needs to be mixed, follow the directions on the package closely to ensure the mixture comes out right. Different finishes require different approaches, so it's best to follow the instructions on your label. You will need to purchase “reglazer” or a bathtub “finish” that's made specifically for bathtubs. You can usually find it at your local hardware store. Apply the new finish over the tub in smooth, even rows. If you are using a spray on finish, hold the can about 12 inches (30 cm) from the tub and apply it from left to right. Don't back track, instead, keep spraying it from left to right in the same direction to create even, overlapping coats. If you are painting the finish on, roll it in one direction for the same reasons. Apply one coat of the finish, taking your time to ensure you cover every bit of the tub with an even layer. Do not touch the finish after you lay it on or it may create permanent marks. Give the finish 15 minutes to dry. You'll be applying additional coats of the glaze or finish to the tub, but each coat needs a few minutes to cure before applying the next. If it's a particularly humid day or your bathroom isn't well ventilated, you may want to wait a little bit longer. Letting each coat dry slightly before applying the next will help them better seal and adhere to one another. Add 2 more coats, waiting 15 minutes between each. You should have a total of three coats applied to your tub before you're done, though each coat does not need to be completely dry before applying the next one. Waiting 15 minutes should make the previous coat tacky enough to adhere to the next. Apply each coat in the same, smooth, left to right fashion whether painting or spraying. Make sure you cover the entire tub with each coat. Give the tub at least a day to dry. Don't run any water through the tub or attempt to touch the new finish for at least one full day. Keep the doors and windows open with the fan running if possible to keep the area ventilated and aid in the drying process. Don't let anyone use the toilet in the bathroom while it dries as the fumes can still be dangerous. Remove the tape and plastic. With the tub mostly dry, you can now remove all of the plastic, tape and paper you used to protect the walls and hardware in your tub. The finish should not be affected by you removing the tape, but with some finishes, it still may not be ready for use. Read the instructions on the bathtub finish you purchased to know how long it needs to cure completely before you use the bathtub again. Recaulk the seams you removed the caulk from before. It's best to use a non-silicone caulk that has anti-mildew properties. Silicone does not adhere well to bathtub finishes. Apply the caulk by squeezing the tube in an even bead along all of the seams that you removed the caulk from earlier. Use your finger to press the bead of caulk into the crack and create a smooth finish by running it over the caulk from one end to the other. Be sure to give the caulk enough time to completely dry before using the bathtub as well. Drying time will vary based on the type you use, so read the instructions included carefully.

Turn on your bathroom fan and open the doors and windows. Use a box fan to increase air flow. Use a putty knife to cut away the caulk sealing the tub. Remove any remaining caulk with a razor blade and sandpaper. Use commercial tub cleaner on the entire tub. Inspect the tub for any leftover silicone, caulk, or grime. Tape off the edges of the tub with masking tape. Wrap the spout, handles and anything else that’s not the tub in plastic. Use paper or plastic to cover the walls of the shower. Apply a bonding agent to the surface of the tub if it’s made of iron. Mix some reglazer per its instructions. Apply the new finish over the tub in smooth, even rows. Give the finish 15 minutes to dry. Add 2 more coats, waiting 15 minutes between each. Give the tub at least a day to dry. Remove the tape and plastic. Recaulk the seams you removed the caulk from before.

https://www.wikihow.com/Destroy-Sensitive-Documents

How to Destroy Sensitive Documents

The easiest way to destroy sensitive documents is to shred them in a paper shredder, preferably in a crosscut shredder which produces thinner strips of paper compared to a strip-cut shredder. Alternatively, burn your documents in an outdoor fire pit or a burn barrel, then check the ashes to make sure no legible bits of paper remain. You can also place the papers in a trashcan and soak them in a solution of water and bleach to turn them into a mushy pulp. Then, lay the pulp out in the sun and let it dry completely before throwing it away.

Place the documents in a large trashcan. You will want a container tall and wide enough to easily contain all of the documents and liquids you are pulping. Similarly, the material needs to be strong enough so that it won't deteriorate or lose its form when in contact with bleach and water. Since you will be using roughly 22L of liquid to dissolve the documents, choose a trashcan that is greater than or equal to 30L. This will give you enough room to properly churn the documents. Plastic trashcans work well and can withstand the effects of diluted bleach. Large plastic trashcans are available at home improvement and construction stores, as well as general commodity stores like Kmart, Target, and Walmart. They are also available online. Remove the documents from any envelopes or packages. Pour in ½ Gallon (2L) of bleach. Many stores sell brand name and generic bleach with a 8.25% concentration; this is perfect for your purpose. Bleach is going to help break down the paper. Commonly used in the recycling of used paper, it will also destroy the colorants of ink. This will guarantee a more complete destruction of any secure information in your documents. Bleach is a hazardous chemical and can cause serious illness if not safely used. Avoid contact with your skin and eyes; do not ingest bleach. Only mix bleach with water. Combining with other chemicals – such as ammonia or toilet bowl cleaners – can produce toxic, potentially deadly fumes. It is advised to wear long sleeve clothing, pants, close toed shoes and an eye cover when working with bleach. In the case you accidentally swallow any of the solution, immediately drink a small glass of water or milk. Call poison control at 1-800-222-1222. Add 5 Gallons (19L) of water. Although bleach is the more chemically harmful (and stronger) part of this mixture, simple water is doing a lot of the work. Once the paper is completely saturated, you'll be able to reduce it to an unrecognizable pulp. Push the documents down into the bleach water. All the documents need to be submerged so they are completely saturated and can be broken down. If you have more documents that liquids, then you can do one of two things: work in smaller batches, or work with a larger container. If you choose the latter, make sure you increase your proportions of water and bleach to match. Do not use your bare hands to push the documents down. This can cause great harm to your skin. Instead use the paint turbine mixer, a broom stick, or else wear long rubber gloves. For example, assume you have 30L plastic bin with 22L of liquid. If you have too many documents for this and purchase a 90L bin, you should be using 6L of bleach and 57L of water. Let the documents sit for 24 hours. Sitting in the bleach-water solution for 24 hours will effectively break down the sensitive documents and make them easy to pulp. If this is an emergency situation, and/or the documents need to be destroyed more quickly, consider the other methods listed here. Blend the documents with a paint turbine mixer. After waiting 24 hours, the documents should be soft and discolored. Using an electric mixer, blend the paper until it becomes a soft, uniform mash. If at any point you reach into the pulp to check the contents, always wear rubber or nitrile gloves to prevent skin exposure. Broomsticks, canes, staffs and other long handled tools work as well. Anything that can reach deep into the container to churn and break apart the paper will succeed. Sift through the pulp looking for any large clumps. If there are pieces where you can still identify the information, break them apart by hand and then continue mixing. Lay out in sunlight to dry. Putting the pulp directly into bags may lead to leakage and could possibly be rejected by the garbage men. Instead, lay out a large plastic tarp and pour the pulp evenly over the surface. Allow the pulp to dry completely before disposing of it. Some people decide to use this dried pulp as mulch for their yards. However, if you go this route, it's advised to not use bleach during the pulping process. Dispose of the pulp. Place the dried remains in garbage bags and leave them out with the regular trash. Anyone who goes digging through your garbage – such as identity thieves – will be hard pressed to learn anything from your pulped documents. Pulp can also be composted. Set up an outdoor fire pit. Standard fire pits are ideal for burning documents because they stand off the ground and have top covers. This allows for better airflow, which leads to a more complete burn of your documents. Also, it somewhat prevents the escape of document fragments from the fire. Be advised that in most cases it is illegal to openly burn trash in residential areas and cities. In some cases you will need a permit. Check your city specific regulations by searching your state's name and “open burn regulations”. Another excellent option is professional burn cages. These are metal cages that function as outdoor incinerators. Burn barrels are another option. Steel drum barrels of 55 gallons are the most common, and will do a better job of keeping document fragments within. However, it is not recommended to use as they produce harmful toxins, and their use is illegal in some states, such as Illinois. It may also be safer to burn the individual piece inside of a cast-iron bathtub. Make sure that there is nothing in the bottom, such as plastic foot grips. This way, if it does somehow manage to get out of control, you have the tub with a ready supply of water. Start a fire. It is generally easier to start a fire if you begin with kindling (smaller pieces of wood that are easier to burn), and paper. You can even use the sensitive documents as fire starter. Once the kindling is lit, add progressively larger pieces of wood until you have a stable burn. For your safety, there should be no flammable shrubbery, paper, or material of any kind around the fire's perimeter. To guarantee fires accidentally start and spread beyond the fire pit, pour sand around the perimeter. It is also advisable to place stones around the firepit. If you are having trouble getting the fire very strong, use lighter fluid. Be careful not to drop the bottle in the fire or spray too much at once. It is possible to create large explosions and bursts of flame that could injure you. Stand further away from the flame while spraying the lighter fluid to avoid singing your face, chest, and arms. Place the sensitive documents in the fire. Don't dump them all at once; this could cause small pieces of information to fall by the side. Burn individual pieces, holding them with metal tongs, to ensure they are completely burned. Once the fire has been burning for a while it may have a stable heart (center of hot embers). With a stable heart, you can place more of the documents in at once and allow them to burn, protected by the wood. When burning, proper ventilation is important, not only to avoid smoke inhalation but also to ensure a full and proper burn. The open grate of a fire pit allows for this ventilation; so does limiting the amount of paper you insert at once. Watch the make sure no document fragments are blown from the fire. Even small amounts of information could be the exact valuable pieces other people desire. Burn the sensitive documents along with other pieces of scrap paper. If by accident a part is not burnt, the remains of the scrap paper mixed in will help confuse anyone who tries to read your information. Check the ashes. Once you think everything is burned and the fire is out, shift through the ashes and look for any unburned paper. The easiest to spot will be paper that somehow still has a white sheen. However, also be on the lookout for pieces that have turned grey, but still have legible text. Even these must be burnt more completely. Burn any remaining pieces. Gather all the sensitive debris and store it in a safe, closed compartment until you have the fire burning again. Using protective fire gloves, or long metal tongs, securely place the document fragments in the fire's center. Scatter the ashes. Wait for the fire to go out, and for the ashes to cool to a safe temperature. Using a shovel, gather them in a bag that will not rip. If you have a yard, scatter the ashes evenly throughout your yard. It is also possible to use a small amount of ash in composting units (so long as you did not use lighter fluid to make the fire). Ashes spread around garden plants discourages slugs and snails. It is also beneficial to pour ash around the base of hardwood trees. Gain access to a crosscut shredder. When shredding sensitive documents it is important to use a crosscut shredder (as opposed to a more basic strip-cut shredder), because it produces thinner strips of paper. This protects you from would-be thieves of this information from reconstructing the complete pages from the strips. Chose a machine that creates strips less than or equal to 1/32nd of an inch with a ½ inch crosscut. Paper shredders can be purchased at office supply stores and are classified into six security levels based on the thinness of cut. One is the widest cut; six is the thinnest and approved for Top Secret government documents. Anything less than a 4 (1/16 * 5/8”) is not recommended for sensitive documents. Most offices have paper shredders or record destruction services. Check with your office manager and see if you can bring in your own documents for destruction. . Shred the documents Once you have a satisfactory shredder, begin sending all of your documents through the device's mouth. Continue until all of your documents are done. If you have more documents than the machine can hold at one time, be sure to take the ribbons of paper out before continuing. Do not put your hand or fingers in direct contact with the shredder's mouth. Hold the documents by the end so that there is distance between you and the mouth. Once the shredder has the paper within its grip, release the documents. Above all, protect the safety of your hands. Traditional shredders (that cut paper into strips) won't keep someone from putting it back together. Hand ripping isn't a good idea either, especially on small documents (it takes 2 centimeters to find out a person's Social Security Number). Separate the pieces into separate bags. Beyond reducing them to unrecognizable small pieces, this is one further security measure. Take a portion of each document and place them in separate bags. This way, any would be thieves cannot find matches within the same bag; they will have to sort through everything. Dispose of them on the scheduled day. If garbage is picked up from your house/business on a Tuesday, don't put this out on a Wednesday. You want to leave as little time as possible between when the garbage goes out and when it is collected. Ideally you will keep it inside until the day of collection, and bring it down just before the city employees arrive. Delete the documents. Locate all the files on your hard drive containing sensitive data. Right click and send them to the trash. Empty your trash. If there is no risk that someone will use more advanced techniques to retrieve your data, this is an acceptable and simple method. However, it is fairly easy to recover “deleted” files, as there are a number of file recovery programs on the market. Do not use this method if there is a risk others will make an effort to recover the sensitive information. Do not use this method if the sensitive information could be used to cause you harm or distress. Overwrite the hard drive. All the information on your hard drive is represented in binary numbers: 1's and 0's. This is the computer's language. Overwriting programs – available online – go through and replace all the information on your hard drive with random strings of 1's and 0's. If you decide to choose this method, be advised it is semi-permanent and it may be impossible to recover the data in question. Most overwriting programs do multiple “passes” of your data. Three passes are considered standard by U.S. government. Back up any information you wish to preserve on an external hard drive. There are also programs like Eraser that allow you to manually overwrite specific files. Degauss the hard drive. Degaussing refers to exposing magnet-based technology (e.g. hard drives) to a powerful magnetic field that destroys the data. Ideally it will entirely get rid of the device's magnetic charge and make it impossible to use. Purchasing your own degausser can cost up to $4000. However it is possible to rent one or pay for the professional services of IT companies like Securis. Although overwriting can potentially be reversed, the degaussing process causes permanent damage, and none of the data can be recovered. Be sure to back up anything you want to preserve onto an external hard drive or cloud storage. Do not operate a degausser if you have a pace maker, as it can cause damage to this important medical equipment. Physically destroy the hard drive. The most complete method available is physical destruction. Hammering, high heat, and drilling are all acceptable methods. Whatever method you choose, first remove the hard drive from any outer framework. If hammering, apply extreme force directly on top of the hard drive. If drilling, ensure that you punch several holes directly through the drive. If using heat (e.g. blow torch), completely melt through the hard drive. When using a blowtorch, wear heat resistant gloves, as well as a protective face shield. It is safest to work over dirt or sand to prevent fires or explosions. While working with a hammer or drill, wear protective gloves and a face shield to protect yourself from flying debris. It is also possible to shoot holes through the hard drive with a gun. Do not operate a firearm unless you are licensed to do so. Permanently delete emails. Select all the emails containing sensitive information and then select “delete” or “trash” depending on the program. Many online mail services – such as Gmail – will hold onto “deleted” files for 30 days before rendering them unrecoverable to users. Once you've deleted the emails, go directly to the “Deleted Messages” and “Trash” sections to see if there are any recoverable versions of your email. If so, delete these too. Clear your browser history. It's possible you want to prevent others from knowing what websites you've been visiting. Many browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Internet Explorer have this option. Go through the “menu” option to locate your history and delete any incriminating history.

Place the documents in a large trashcan. Pour in ½ Gallon (2L) of bleach. Add 5 Gallons (19L) of water. Push the documents down into the bleach water. Let the documents sit for 24 hours. Blend the documents with a paint turbine mixer. Lay out in sunlight to dry. Dispose of the pulp. Set up an outdoor fire pit. Start a fire. Place the sensitive documents in the fire. Check the ashes. Burn any remaining pieces. Scatter the ashes. Gain access to a crosscut shredder. . Separate the pieces into separate bags. Dispose of them on the scheduled day. Delete the documents. Overwrite the hard drive. Degauss the hard drive. Physically destroy the hard drive. Permanently delete emails. Clear your browser history.

https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Professional-Artist

How to Become a Professional Artist

If you're dreaming of being a professional artist, you can get started by developing your talent and getting an education. First, go to art school or complete another program so you can learn the skills and make the contacts you need to make money from your art. Creativity takes dedication, so try to work on your art every day or as often as you can to hone your craft. Once you've created some great art, build a portfolio that highlights your best work, which you can show to potential clients. To promote your art, upload regularly to social media and get your best pieces in art galleries. After you've established a name for yourself, start selling your art in stores, galleries, and online. If you want to make some extra money, design commissions for clients and teach art classes and workshops.

Go to art school. Search online to find out which art schools are in your area, or which schools offer specializations in the type of art you want to pursue. While it is possible to become a professional artist without attending school, this is the most common starting point for amateur artists who want to transition into professionals. If you know what type of professional art career you want to pursue, try looking into trade school programs. These programs are generally non-degree programs that offer extensive courses in several specialties, such as graphic design and painting. If you know you want to be a professional artist but are unsure what type of artist you want to be, try looking into schools that offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Bachelor's programs are typically 4 year programs that give you the opportunity to take a variety of art classes and afford you time to figure out what your artistic passion is. If you have a Bachelor's degree and are looking to specialize in a particular type of art, consider looking into a Master's degree program, such as a Master of Fine Arts. Attend art classes or workshops held by professional artists. Check with local museums, galleries, art schools, and studios to find out about opportunities to take art classes or attend workshops.  Many art-related institutions offer classes and workshops frequently, so you will likely be able to find several options. Taking advantage of these offerings will allow you to learn more about the type of art you want to pursue professionally, and will give you the opportunity to practice and receive feedback from professionals. Work on improving your artistic skills every day. As with any career, becoming a professional artist takes hard work and consistent practice. While you may have natural talent and/or have developed new artistic skills in a degree program or by taking classes or workshops, working on your art every day (or as often as you can) will help you hone your skills and find your artistic strengths. Putting in the work also helps build your confidence in your art and in presenting yourself as a professional artist. Find your unique perspective as an artist. Experiment with different mediums and search for inspiration in a variety of places to help you find your unique perspective as an artist.  To make a name for yourself as a professional artist, you will want your art to be recognizable as yours. While talent and quality are important, distinctive pieces of art are the most popular in terms of what sells.   Traveling, seeking out new experiences, and observing the world around you can help you find inspiration and uncover what you want to convey through your art. Create a portfolio of your work. To promote your work through almost any professional organization, you will need to create and submit a portfolio of your work. A strong portfolio highlights your best pieces, so include any pieces that you feel particularly confident in, as well as any that have garnered positive critical feedback. Your portfolio should also showcase your abilities, so feel free to include promising unfinished pieces that display any skills not seen in your other pieces. Whether you choose a digital or paper format for your portfolio will depend on your career goals, personal preference, and the type of art you typically create. If you are a graphic designer, for example, you will want to create a digital portfolio, as this will likely be the expected format. If you specialize in small, original drawings, you may want to include original or copies of your work in a physical portfolio to show to gallery or museum personnel. Submit your art for display in a gallery. Learn how to get your art into a gallery to help you establish yourself as a professional artist.  While the competition is fierce and it may take some time for you to break into the gallery world, getting into a gallery is a great step towards selling your art and making a living as a professional artist. As you start submitting your work, visit gallery openings and events to get to know the people that work there, as well as other artists. The more people get to know you, the more familiar they will become with your work. Start social media accounts to display your art online. Regardless of where you are in your career as an artist, starting an Instagram and/or Facebook account to display your art online can give you a boost in recognition. Once you create an Instagram and/or Facebook account, start posting your art at least 3 times per week, if not every day, to familiarize your followers with your unique artistic style and perspective. You might also want to look into how to advertise on Instagram and Facebook to widen your social media audience and, eventually, boost your sales. Display your art in public spaces. Think outside the box and reach out to various establishments to ask if you can display your art. Retail stores, restaurants, public parks, craft fairs, and festivals are great places to display your art and get noticed as a professional. Try to be creative and don't be afraid to put yourself and your art out there – you never know what opportunity to exhibit your art might lead to a sale. Research the market to price your art. To determine how much to charge for your art, assess the size, shape, medium, weight, subject matter, colors, how long it took you to make it, how much the supplies cost, and how experienced you are at that particular artistic medium. Once you have determined these factors, research how much similar pieces in your area tend to sell for. You can do this by searching online, or by talking to stores, galleries, and other retailers that sell similar artwork. When you price your art, you need to be able to justify the amount. While your artwork is surely unique, so is every piece of original art. Thus, this cannot be a major factor in determining how much you much you should charge for your pieces. When you first start selling your art, you may have to sell it for less than what other, established artists are selling their work for. After selling a few pieces, you can begin charging more. Create a business plan. Regardless of what type of art you create, writing a business plan can help you establish your goals as a professional artist and determine your financial needs. As part of your business plan, research and outline the potential markets for your type of art. Take into consideration all the ways that you can potentially sell your art, as well as the prices you have determined for the various types of pieces you create. Then, outline in your business plan how many pieces you need to produce and sell to meet your financial needs, and how you are going to go about doing so. In determining your financial needs, consider all the things that you need to pay for, including food, housing, more art supplies, and any other expenses you incur on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. Join professional art organizations. Search online to find professional organizations that are relevant to your type of artwork and sign up to become a member. This can help you establish yourself as a professional artist and send the message to potential clients and/or employers that you take your career as an artist seriously. In addition, professional organizations can provide opportunities for you to network with other artists, helping you spread the word about your work. Joining organizations and staying connected to local artistic communities is a great way to meet other artists, learn about the industry, and get exposure. Sell your work in stores, galleries, or online. In addition to promoting your work, you can also sell your work in a store or gallery. While retail stores and galleries take a percentage of your sales, selling your art through such companies is a great way to expose your work to a larger audience and, hopefully, make more sales. In addition to brick and mortar options, look into the many ways to sell your art online , including through social media, an artist collective website, or through your own retail website.  Learning how to sell your art on Etsy is also a great option. Etsy is popular site that gets a lot of traffic, so it is a great way to expose your work to a large audience and help you make a living as a professional artist. Create commission pieces. Wherever you display your art, advertise that you are also available to create original pieces for individual clients on commission. Most artists create commission pieces at some point in their careers. Working on commission may not be as steady or artistically fulfilling as following your own inspirations, but it can be a great way to get your art out into the world while making some money. The key to being successful as a commissioned artist is to be flexible and listen to your clients. While you want to stay true to yourself as an artist, you are also being paid to create something specific based on your clients' needs. Finding a balance between what you want and what your clients want will make the experience mutually beneficial and, hopefully, help you build a positive reputation and land more commission work. Teach art workshops and classes. As a professional artist, you can make money while sharing your knowledge and skills by teaching classes and/or workshops to budding artists. There are several opportunities you can look into, including teaching classes at a studio, gallery, community center, or school. Teaching can also help you stay up to date on current trends and techniques, helping you improve your own skills. You might even find that you learn some new ideas or find new inspiration from your students! You could offer different classes based on skill level and technique. For example, you might teach basic drawing classes for beginners, as well as advanced shading techniques or still life watercolors for intermediate or advanced students. Produce art for a company as an employee. Work as an in-house artist for a company in need of your artistic skills. There are many companies that hire professional artists, including software and print materials companies, advertising and design agencies, and motion picture companies. These types of companies are consistently in need of artists with various special skills, including graphic design, product label design, and illustration.  Working as a professional artist for a company has the added benefit of ensuring that you have a steady salary.

Go to art school. Attend art classes or workshops held by professional artists. Work on improving your artistic skills every day. Find your unique perspective as an artist. Create a portfolio of your work. Submit your art for display in a gallery. Start social media accounts to display your art online. Display your art in public spaces. Research the market to price your art. Create a business plan. Join professional art organizations. Sell your work in stores, galleries, or online. Create commission pieces. Teach art workshops and classes. Produce art for a company as an employee.

https://www.wikihow.com/Smoke-a-Cigarette-Indoors-Without-Getting-Caught

How to Smoke a Cigarette Indoors Without Getting Caught

To smoke a cigarette indoors without getting caught, find a quiet part of the building, such as a disused stairwell or back room. You should also try to smoke near a window you can open, since the fresh air will help conceal the smell. Keep an eye out for smoke detectors, since it's easy to set one off if you're not careful. After you've finished smoking, spray an air freshener to cover up the scent.

Choose a single room to smoke in. If you're trying not to get caught smoking in your own home, don't smoke all over the house. Instead, designate a single room in your residence as a smoking room, and only smoke there. Smoke before showering. If you run the water for your bath or shower, you'll generate a great deal of steam. This steam neutralizes other airborne scents, including cigarette smoke. Choose a space that is well-ventilated. If you're smoking in a large office and want to avoid getting caught, light your cigarettes in a room with a window you can crack open. Open the window before you smoke to reduce the volume of smoke that accumulates inside. A tall and relatively disused stairwell might be a good option. Don’t smoke near smoke detectors and alarms. If you smoke near a smoke detector, you could trigger it, alerting everyone in the building that you're smoking. Even if you don't trigger a noisy traditional smoke detector, you might get caught by a more modern smoke detector that can differentiate between fires and cigarette smoke. Newer smoke detectors use wireless signals to alert building managers when and where people are smoking. Keep an eye out for smoke detectors when deciding where to smoke indoors. Choose an out-of-the-way location. When smoking indoors, steer clear of high-traffic areas. Smoking in areas with lots of people about only increases the odds that you'll be caught smoking indoors. Instead, head to a disused part of the building or an empty back room. Get an air purifier. Air purifiers filter the content and the stench of air, erasing the stink of tobacco smoke. This will help you conceal your smoking when indoors. The best air purifiers will have an activated carbon filter. This filter is specially attuned to remove the odor of smoke. If you're out and about but trying to not get caught smoking indoors, use a personal air filter. These portable devices filter your smoke, scrubbing its scent and toxins. Do the wash regularly. Smoke clings to clothes, curtains, towels, and bedding. Remove these things regularly before they build up a heavy layer of smoke that could out you as an indoor smoker. Dust your residence. Smoke particulate can mingle with regular dust and settle on your tables, TVs, and counters. Dust and wipe surfaces regularly to avoid accumulating telltale smoke scent. Don't forget to wipe down your mirrors and windows. Clean up your butts. Don't leave your cigarettes in the toilet or on top of an open trash can. Wrap your cigarette butts in a damp paper towel to ensure they don't accidentally ignite the trash can, then throw the whole bundle away. Don’t let anyone suspect you go to smoke. If you're indoors and head off on your own, have a good pretext. For instance, you might smoke when you're running documents to another part of your workplace. Smoke only during periods of time when you won't be missed. Smoking indoors when on your way to your lunch break, for instance, is a good option. Turn the fan on. If you're in a room with a fan or air conditioner, turn it on. The movement of air can disperse the smoke, making it harder for others to detect. This will reduce the likelihood you'll get caught. Use odor-neutralizing sprays. After smoking indoors, you can avoid getting caught by spraying a room down with odor-eliminating sprays. These sprays will neutralize the smoky odor without adding a new scent of their own. Try a homemade mixture to hide the scent. If you're smoking at home, you could cook up a mixture to conceal the smoky smell caused by your cigarette. Just fill a large pot with water, one cup of white vinegar, one clove, a few drops of orange oil, and a dash of cinnamon. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes. The aromatic mixture will conceal the smell of the cigarette you smoked indoors. If you don't have all the ingredients necessary to make the pleasantly-scented mix, you could simply boil a cup of vinegar to conceal the cigarette smoke. Light a candle. While this solution is probably difficult to use outside the home, scented candles can conceal – or at least reduce – the amount of detectable smokiness of a given space. There are dozens of scented candle flavors available both online and in big box stores. Choose one you like and light it after you've smoked indoors. Use a scented air freshener. There is no evidence that any particular air freshener scent is better than any other at obscuring the stink of cigarette smoke. Obtain a bottled air freshener of your choice and spray it in the space you smoked in. Alternately, use a plug-in air freshener to regularly disperse a pleasant scent in the area you smoked.

Choose a single room to smoke in. Smoke before showering. Choose a space that is well-ventilated. Don’t smoke near smoke detectors and alarms. Choose an out-of-the-way location. Get an air purifier. Do the wash regularly. Dust your residence. Clean up your butts. Don’t let anyone suspect you go to smoke. Turn the fan on. Use odor-neutralizing sprays. Try a homemade mixture to hide the scent. Light a candle. Use a scented air freshener.

https://www.wikihow.com/Win-at-Everything

How to Win at Everything

To win at everything, start by defining what winning means to you by asking yourself questions like "What are my short-term and long-term goals?" and "Where do I see myself in 3 years?" Once you have an idea of what you want to accomplish, start preparing by researching what you need to do and thinking about how you can prevent problems that might occur. Work on your goals every single day and try not to let failures and roadblocks get you down. Instead, think of them as temporary obstacles that you need to overcome to win.

Play methodically and strategically, staying relaxed under stress. Even if the game requires relative quickness, like speed chess or sports, the player that keeps their cool is usually the one that walks away victorious. Make a habit of controlled, regular breathing while you play, taking your time to make the absolute best choice every time you're up. If you're relaxed and calm you'll have a much easier time sorting through the options and choosing the best one. Analyze the needs and weaknesses of your opponent. Instead of trying to think, "what is my opponent thinking?", break the question down into simpler and more effective questions. First, what does my opponent need to win? And secondly, if I was my opponent, what would I be worried about -- what is my weakness? The answer to these two questions almost always points to a worthwhile strategy: In a game of tennis, imagine you're playing someone with an amazing serve, but poor net play. They will want to hit it hard, keeping you back on the baseline to avoid the net, but you should flip this on it's head and force them to the front-court with short shots and slices. In a board, card, or strategy game, ask yourself each turn what your opponent still needs to do to win. How can you prevent them from getting this? Research the top strategies for your game. If you're a chess player, there are hundreds of books detailing moves, how to read opponents, and successful long-term strategies. If you're playing cards, mathematicians and game theorists have broken down the proven ways to win for almost any game created, often detailed for free online. Don't try to learn everything through experience -- read up on the success of past players and use it to your advantage. More than just giving you strategies, reading up on a game's news and tips helps you recognize your opponent's strategy as they try it, helping you cut it off quickly. Even athletes should constantly read up on new advancements. Look no further, for example, than US triple jumper Christian Taylor. After reading up on research and science, he broke conventional wisdom by taking shorter, faster jumps instead of long, slow ones. He then won the gold medal at the 2016 Olympics. Keep an eye out for patterns. These can be patterns in the game or your opponent's patterns. People struggle to be random, and will generally repeat the same methods over and over again, especially if they feel like they are working. Keeping your mind sharp on the overall trends and patterns in the game can help you control them to victory. If an opposing team is having the most success attacking down the left side, don't just keep playing. Find a way to plug the hole on your team's left. In Rock, Paper, Scissors, most men throw rock first, while most women throw paper. That means you should always start with paper -- you're most likely to win or tie. As you keep playing, look out for similar series of moves from your opponent to read them like book. Use randomness to your advantage. While you're analyzing your opponent for patterns, you can assume they are doing the same thing. Whenever you can throw a little randomness in the mix, or simply mix up your own patterns, you can catch them off-guard and gain an advantage. Not all games allow randomness, but switching up tactics to confuse your opponent will usually help you get ahead. In sports, like soccer, for example, take shots from all around the box, not just once you get close to goal. Make them defend both outside the box and inside of it to keep them moving. Use the natural world to help stay random. For example, imagine you're serving in tennis. Instead of serving the same place, or alternating each time, look at your watch. If the second hand says 0-30, serve to the right. If it says 31-60, serve left Know the rules inside and out. You can't win if you get tangled up in fouls or broken rules. Whats more, knowing the rules inside and out is the best way to catch others cheating and know exactly what tools and strategies you have at your disposal. Whether you're playing a game or entering a contest, knowing the rules back to front gives you an instant advantage over the competition. Practice the smaller skills individually to improve at the greater game. Take, for example, the game of poker. While you can practice by simply playing lots of poker, good players know they need to focus on each part of the game to truly succeed. They might study what hands to fold or play one day, when to bluff another, and how to calculate card odds on the fly the next day. By mastering individual skills, you greatly improve your total game. Many games, like chess, have "practice problems" online, which are particular game-like scenarios that you must quickly figure out. For sports, this is why drills are so essential. Don't just think about repeating the motion over and over again, think about how you'll use this particular skill to succeed in a game. For complex tasks like video games playing against a computer, or even against yourself, is a great way to build skills on your own time. Communicate effectively and constantly with any teammates. The teams that talk the most are the teams that work the most effectively. You should be in constant communication about your opponent's moves, where you are, if you need help or support, or any changes in strategy. Don't ever assume that you're better off on your own, or keeping quiet in hopes of being "secretive." The best teams keep in touch. If you learn or find something useful for your teammates, let them know. Provide on-the-fly updates as you play -- "I got this one," "I need some help," "watch your back," etc. Play some mind games. There is a famous shot from the Tour de France where Lance Armstrong, in the lead after climbing a brutally large mountain, sees a challenger gaining ground on him. Even though he is exhausted, Armstrong quickly changes his face into a happy, relaxed smile and looks back at the opponent, who's face is completely tired. The rider, fearing Lance is not tired at all, is demoralized, and Armstrong easily wins. You can play the same tricks in any game to gain a psychological advantage. Keep cool and collected while your opponents crumble. No matter what game you're playing, keep your poker face up. The only emotions you show are the ones you want your opponent to see. If you bluff in a game, for whatever reason, don't tell your opponents even if you pull it off successfully. This is why, unless forced, you never show your hand in a game of cards. They can't figure out when you're bluffing and when you're serious. Define what it means to win in life. What do you consider a successful life? When you see yourself 3-4 years down the line, what are you doing? If these questions are difficult, ask smaller ones to start: are you living in a city or the country? Do you want to work from home or do you want to help save the world through charity? Maybe you just want the time to pursue your hobbies at leisure. Whatever it is, winners figure out where the finish line is so that they can plan how to get there. Goals worth having aren't always easy. Don't let the difficulty or length of a task in front of you discourage you from going for it. Do the preparation work necessary for success. Winners know that success requires work before the actual event or challenge occurs. "Prior preparation prevents poor performance," so sit down for a few hours and sketch out the following questions, as well as your answers: "What are the most likely things to go wrong?" "How can I prevent problems or issues in advance?" "What tools/materials do I need for success?" "What steps can I take now to ensure success later?" Always keep learning, especially in the fields you enjoy. Winners never "know everything." It's actually the opposite, as winners recognize that knowledge is power and you can never gain enough. Read a daily journal article in your field, pick up a new skill, and go to talks and lectures that catch your interest. While you should focus on your field, know that inspiration comes from everywhere. An open mind will take you far no matter what you're doing. Try to be a sponge, absorbing as much information as you can whenever you can. The more you challenge yourself, the more you'll learn. Taking the difficult or longer route usually pays off in more experience and know-how. Work on your goals every single day instead of in big chunks. This is a lot like the difference between studying a little bit every day and cramming the night before the test. While both may do enough to help you pass, the lessons learned from cramming are quickly forgotten. You gain much more ground if you work on something every single day, building momentum and forging powerful mental pathways that make you more efficient and successful in the future. That said, don't beat yourself up if you miss a day -- it's not the end of the world. The point is regular, scheduled practice to work on your goals. Just get back on the horse the next day. Stop and analyze your goals, making adjustments as needed, regularly. Winners don't just pick a course and blindly follow it. They are constantly taking stock of their surroundings, and are willing to pivot if there is a better option or idea around them. While every situation is different, productive analysis is easy-- take 5-10 minutes to step quietly aside, then ask the following questions: "What is the current problem(s)?" "How effective was my last solution?" "What has changed since I last made my plans?" "What is the best possible outcome that I can strive for at this moment?" Study the habits of the very best in your field. For example, if you want to rule the world of finance, you should probably pay attention to Warren Buffet, Elon Musk, and other titans in the world of wealth. If you're becoming a musician, learn how your heroes practiced and got better, replicating the parts that sound right to you. Instead of mimicking other winners' live, try to drill down into the practices that make them so successful: Without a doubt, hours of practice is the common thread between all winners. From the Beatles playing all-night shows in Germany to Bill Gates locked in a room with early computers, the best put in thousands and thousands of hours of work before succeeding. Good practice is challenging, not easy. Lance Armstrong famously brought his bike to the Alps during wintertime as preparation for climbing the same mountains in the summer's Tour de France. Look at failures as challenges, not roadblocks. Winners don't see failure as the end of the road, they see it as a necessary hurdle to jump over. There has never been a successful person who hasn't had to overcome failure, because the road to greatness always has challenges. By approaching setbacks as tests designed to make your better and stronger once conquered, you'll set yourself on the path to win at everything you do. Challenges force you to learn and adapt on the fly. Remaining open and flexible will help you handle any difficulty that comes your way. Prioritize wisely. Everyone knows the person, for example, that wants to write a great novel but "can never find the time." The problem is not that they can't find the time, it is that they aren't making the time for themselves. No one can set your schedule but you, so make a habit of prioritizing the things most important to you so you are 100% sure you'll get them done. If you don't make time for your priorities, no one else will. Set aside the same time each day to work on your goals and projects. Once you actually carve out a dedicated time to work it becomes much easier to stick to. Being a winner does require some sacrifice. Setting your priorities so that you work on your passions may mean smaller hobbies get less time and attention. Have a winner's mentality. You have to be psychologically and mentally prepared to succeed, so be positive and believe in yourself. If you think that you can be a winner, you will be further than most people ever get. Conversely, if you believe that you will fail or have no chance, you'll lose the motivation needed to actually win at anything. Remind yourself that you not only are going to win, but you deserve to win. Being hungry and hopeful will provide motivation even if things get rough.

Play methodically and strategically, staying relaxed under stress. Analyze the needs and weaknesses of your opponent. Research the top strategies for your game. Keep an eye out for patterns. Use randomness to your advantage. Know the rules inside and out. Practice the smaller skills individually to improve at the greater game. Communicate effectively and constantly with any teammates. Play some mind games. Define what it means to win in life. Do the preparation work necessary for success. Always keep learning, especially in the fields you enjoy. Work on your goals every single day instead of in big chunks. Stop and analyze your goals, making adjustments as needed, regularly. Study the habits of the very best in your field. Look at failures as challenges, not roadblocks. Prioritize wisely. Have a winner's mentality.

https://www.wikihow.com/Help-Someone-Who-You-Think-Is-Cutting-Themselves

How to Help Someone Who You Think Is Cutting Themselves

It can be scary to find out that someone you know is cutting themselves, but you can support them by helping them cope with their emotions and encouraging them to seek professional help. Suggest to your friend or loved one that they take up exercise, like running or cycling, or a relaxation activity, such as yoga, since physical activities can help express sadness or aggression in a positive way. You could also suggest they keep a journal where they write about their feelings and thoughts, because this may help them deal with their emotions without turning to self-harm. Since they'll be more likely to cut themselves if they're left alone with their own thoughts, do some hobbies or activities together, like painting, hiking, or going to the movies. If your loved one is open to seeking help, encourage them to see a mental health professional, such as a counselor, who can help them come to terms with their behavior. Alternatively, suggest that they attend a support group of likeminded people.

Make sure you are in a place to help. If you really want to help a loved one who cuts, it is important for you to be mentally and emotionally strong before you start. When you help someone who self-harms, you might have to listen to and witness very taxing and traumatizing events. You have to commit to doing it from the beginning. You cannot decide to pull out of it half way through. You could make it worse for them if you turn your back on them after they share their pain and experiences with you. Be aware that helping others with self-harm may bring new feelings up for you as well. You might feel resentful towards the person, develop extreme sympathy for them, or become excessively frustrated. When you experience these feelings, remember to stay balanced and keep a check on your emotions so you can be a neutral, loving presence for them. Approach your friend with ease and compassion. If you notice that your friend has cuts on their arms, if you notice a change in clothing where they are covering their skin even when it's hot outside, or if you have any other reason to think that your friend is cutting themselves, you should try to help. When you approach your friend, do so in an easy, gentle manner. Don't try to accuse them of keeping things from you, yell at them for their actions, or be combative in any way. They need your support and understanding as well as your help, so accusing them or being aggressive is not going to get you anywhere. Instead, approach them with compassion and understanding and let them know that you are there for them. If they are not ready to acknowledge the problem yet, accept that they may need more time. Still keep an eye on them and be as supportive in other ways as possible, letting them know that you care and are there for them. They will come to you when they are ready to talk about it. Never give your friend an ultimatum. Always be supportive and positive. Acknowledge their emotions. Since most people who cut do so to release inner emotions, letting your friend know that you acknowledge and understand their emotions, or at least empathize with them, will help them. You need to connect with them on a personal level in order to help them, get through to them, and be part of their recovery process. Tell them you understand how overwhelming emotions can be and that you sometimes get overwhelmed too. You can also use this time to talk about how you release your emotions without telling them how to change them. This will offer them a suggestion of positive ways to express emotions that don't involve cutting but that aren't treated as aggressive suggestions to change their life. Although you want to show them that you empathize, you never want to join them in cutting yourself in order to let her know you know how they feel. This will only hurt you and reinforce their self-harm. Be consistent. Do not bounce back and forth with your approach to their self-harm. Do not act as if you are suspicious of their intentions, emotions, and behavior. If you in any way feel you cannot trust them or what they say, don't let it show. Be there to support them and let them know you are there. Gaining their trust fully may take time. If you approach them with a helpful attitude some times and at other times displaying an I am not concerned attitude, you may do more harm than good. Don't take charge. Do not go about helping your loved one or friend by acting as though you are in control of their life. Although you want to change their self-harming behavior, you do not need to take charge of everything or control your loved one. Don't be extremely strict or controlling. This could frighten them to such an extent that they could find you unapproachable. It can also aggravate the cutting behavior, especially if they use cutting as a way to have more control over their life or body. Understand that as much as you want to help your friend or loved one, you cannot make your friend recover or change their behavior. In order to truly overcome cutting, your friend must find a way to accomplish this themselves. Keep the connection open. You may not be able to reach your friend. If they are not yet in a place where they want to be helped, you can't force them to be ready. Make sure you leave the lines of communication open and let them know that you are there for them, but don't push them to listen to you if you have tried your best to talk to them. If you push too hard, you could push them away and then you won't be able to help them at all. Try to keep a close eye on your friend in case their behavior escalates. In this case, you may need to suggest professional help to get their self-harm under control. Encourage activity. Try to encourage your loved one to be as active as possible. When they feel disturbed or have the urge to cut themselves, they need to find a more positive, active outlet to let it out. Suggest doing rigorous exercise, such as running, dancing, aerobics, swimming, tennis, or kickboxing. These can provide an outlet for all of their sadness, aggression, or unhealthy emotion that leads to cutting. Offer to join your friend and exercise together. To help calm their mind, they can also try yoga, meditation, or tai chi. These exercises can help them get a new lease on life, with a fresh, energetic, confident approach that will help them not want to cut themselves. Exercise also releases endorphins into their body, which are the chemicals in the body that makes them feel good. When a person cuts themselves, endorphins rush to the area of the cut and are released into the bloodstream, which cause feelings of relaxation, happiness, and relief. Exercise provides them with a positive way to release endorphins instead. Help increase their self-esteem. Low self-esteem is one reason that drives a person to cut. You need to help them understand that cutting will not and cannot improve their self-image but accomplishments and achievements will. Help them prove to themselves that they are amazing and full of accomplishments. This can be through their studies, work, friends, or volunteering. When they become aware of their accomplishments, their self-esteem will go up and they will feel better about themselves. This should lead them to not want to cut. You can help your friend realize they are full of accomplishments by sharing with them a list of their positive attributes and accomplishments. Don't lecture. Pandering to them will not make her want to change their self-harming behavior. Do not try to drill the person with lectures and sermons that go on for a long time. Keep your talks small and simple. Let the person take in and digest whatever it is you told them. Give them the time to contemplate. Have your small pep talks at a location that is pleasant, peaceful, in the midst of nature, away from hustle and bustle, and private, where the chances of being bothered are minimal. If you can't go somewhere in nature, try a quiet place in your apartment or house or a secluded study room at your local library. The exact location doesn't matter as long as it's a place where you can an honest, uninterrupted conversation. Give them ample time to talk to you. Give them the time they need and want. Do not push them into speeding things up and always choose a place and time that they are comfortable with. Be patient. Your loved one will not stop cutting overnight or because you tell them to. For them, this is the way they know how to deal with their feelings. Telling them to stop the behavior immediately may terrify them because they might have gotten so used to this coping mechanism and feel lost in the absence of an alternative coping skill. This can also make it worse for them since you are trying to take away their coping mechanism for their pain and trauma. Be patient and accept that it will take time. Don't get discouraged and take your time helping them. Issuing ultimatums without assisting or supporting them in ways to find safe alternatives is not a wise option and can cause more harm than good. Suggest reading. People who cut themselves are apprehensive of socializing because they may face suspicious looks and unanswerable probing from others. In order to take their mind off cutting and avoid uncomfortable social situations, suggest they read more. Books open up new horizons. They can travel beyond the four walls of their room without really going out. They can also learn that there are innumerable ways various people have dealt with tough times and experiences. Books also provide an opportunity to understand that there can be plenty of positive and acceptable coping strategies. Present them with books that are thought-provoking, such as those that will help them look within themselves and assess their personal predicament. Consider a journal. A great way to help your loved one come to terms with their cutting is through journaling. Tell them to maintain a daily journal that they put all of their thoughts, anguish, pain, and joy into. Writing can take away the pain and leave them light and relieved. Tell them to write about anything that comes to mind. Don't advise them to write specifically about cutting unless they go to a therapist or counselor. You never know what can of worms could open up, so suggesting your friend focus on a problematic behavior that could be compensating for that trauma is not a good idea unless they go to a professional for help. A journal can also help a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor learn about their condition before diagnosis and treatment. Remove triggering items. Chances of cutting are higher when they are at home where they can have access to their tools. This can be from multiple different objects, such as razors, knives, scissors, or glass bottles. Encourage them to remove these objects from their environment so they aren't tempted to cut themselves. Sit with them as they move the objects out of their immediate area. If they aren't ready to throw them away yet, have them put them on a high shelf or in a room across the house. This will give them more time to think about what they are doing before they do it, which may make them not want to cut themselves. Pep up their spirits. Getting your friend's mind off of their troubles is a great way to help them not want to self-harm. With their consent, try to change their surroundings and environment to help them feel better. Go on a trip, change the arrangement and decor in their room, change the wall colors, or put up some interesting, funny, or inspirational posters. You can also help them choose the changes they want in their room and help them put those changes into effect. This can be a change in the way the room smells, looks, or feels. Be part of the process from start to finish. Take them shopping for the new items in the room and don't leave them until the project is done. Help them enjoy the process of welcoming changes into their life. Provide distractions. Fighting the urge to cut themselves can be especially hard when they are at home alone with nothing else on their mind or if they are preoccupied with themselves and their painful feelings. Tell them to call you or visit when they have the urge to cut. Try to involve yourself in activities along with them that will keep their mind off of it. Think about their likes, interests, and hobbies and try to do something that involves those things. If they love nature, go for a hike. If they love to paint, encourage them to paint. They can do anything creative, such as write a story, play an instrument, or draw a picture. They can also watch a movie or TV show, listen to music, play a game, or anything else they love to do. If you surround them with activities and things they like, they will be more likely to be distracted from their behavior and need to cut themselves. If they don't go out much, encourage them to meet new people, develop contacts, and nurture relationships. This can improve self-confidence, self-esteem, and help them build trust in people. Suggest getting help. When you first learn that a friend or loved one is self-harming, see if they are ready to seek professional help from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor. These professionals have special training to help people combat behaviors in their lives that are bringing harm. If your friend insists that they are not crazy, agree with them. Tell them that people see mental health professionals for many life issues, and many times for self-growth. If your friend is worried about the stigma of seeing a mental health professional, suggest they see someone who is not right in town. It is a valid and helpful service that can truly help them with their problem. Professionals are better equipped to help them understand why they harm themselves and what they are trying to accomplish with the behavior. The involvement of a mental health professional is vital if you are serious about the recovery of your loved one. There is always a stigma associated with seeking help from a mental health professional, but it is essential to convince your loved one to seek treatment. If they are not ready for that, offer to help them research self-harm and triggers. There is an abundance of information on the internet about many topics, and self-harm is no different. Make sure you find information and literature from credible sources, such as psychological foundations or helpline websites. Some content can be misleading and could work against helping your friend or loved one get better. Encourage participation in a support group. A support group is the coming together of individuals who have the same issue or similar concerns, face similar challenges, and undergo similar experiences. Although you act as a one-person support group for a while, they may need companionship from someone who understands exactly what they are going through. After some time with you, they may gradually muster enough courage to meet with people like them in order to know their stories, their disappointments, how they succeeded in overcoming cutting, and learning how and why they failed. They might be hesitant or unwilling to be a part of the support meant for people who cut themselves. To encourage them, you could accompany them to give them the strength and support they need to make that final step. Consider dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Dialectical behavior therapy is one effective way to treat a person who cuts themselves. This is a modified version of cognitive behavioral therapy. In DBT, the therapist carries out a thorough analysis of the person resorting to the cutting behavior. Apart from working with the person seeking treatment, the psychiatrist also makes an effort to involve the family of the person, which will help them to understand and identify the situations and experiences that could have led to the behavior. The psychiatrist also tries to incorporate healthy and acceptable coping skills in the person. Have an intervention. Interventions are carried out under the guidance of a professional interventionist. These are one of the most effective approaches to open up a discussion between the person cutting and the people considered to be important in their life. It can also be difficult because, at an intervention, the painful feelings and emotions associated with the cutting behavior are kept in the open for all the significant people in their life to see. While it helps them to understand without having to worry about hurting each other, it can be difficult to hear. The professional interventionist has a major role to play in getting rid of the cutting behavior in the family's loved one. Get a professional interventionist to arrange an intervention for the person cutting and their loved ones. You could also be one of the participants since you care about them as well. Explain the scars. There are physical marks that remain from cutting. The marks and injuries which cutting can leave behind may make your loved one feel self-conscious, which may cause them to stay away from socializing with friends and family out of fear and embarrassment. This can further deplete their self-esteem levels and make them more insecure, which can feed into the urge to cut themselves again. Explain this to them and let them know they can stop and not have any additional scars. Warn them about the health risks. There may come a time when superficial cutting will no longer comfort them, which can cause them to need to cut deeper and deeper with passing time. This can cause serious health problems. The open wounds from cutting that remain exposed cause infections and other serious health issues. Your loved one might end up cutting in the wrong place, which can cause serious blood loss or accidental death. Watch out for anemia. Continuous episodes of cutting can disrupt the functioning of vital body parts or organs. This is because the body loses blood during multiple episodes of cutting, which can deplete the hemoglobin levels in the blood, which can cause anemia. Anemia that goes untreated can cause shortness of breath, palpitations, swelling of arms and legs, chest pain, heartburn, sweating, and vomiting. In the case of children and adolescents, severe anemia can affect motor skills and mental faculties. They may have a poor attention span and become less alert and responsive. Adults with untreated anemia may develop heart-related problems and may even experience a stroke and cardiac conditions. Anemia may also impair cognitive powers.

Make sure you are in a place to help. Approach your friend with ease and compassion. Acknowledge their emotions. Be consistent. Don't take charge. Understand that as much as you want to help your friend or loved one, you cannot make your friend recover or change their behavior. Keep the connection open. Encourage activity. Help increase their self-esteem. Don't lecture. Be patient. Suggest reading. Consider a journal. Remove triggering items. Pep up their spirits. Provide distractions. Suggest getting help. Encourage participation in a support group. Consider dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Have an intervention. Explain the scars. Warn them about the health risks. Watch out for anemia.

https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Subway-Tile-Backsplash

How to Install Subway Tile Backsplash

To install subway tile backsplash, measure the wall, calculate the number of tiles needed to cover it, and buy 10% more tile than you need to account for waste. Next, sketch your design on the wall and lay out the the tiles on a large table. Then, sand the wall and apply mastic to it with a trowel. Finally, press the tiles into place, separating them with 1/8 inch spacers, and let them set overnight before grouting and caulking.

Measure the area and purchase 10% more tile than you need. Use a tape measure and measure the width and length of the space you want to cover with subway tiles. Multiply these numbers by each other. This will give you the total area you want to tile. Afterwards, add 10% to the total to cover potential waste. If you have a 10-foot (3 m) section that is 2.5 (.76 m) high, you have an area of 25 square feet (7.6 square meters) to cover. To cover waste, you'll add 2.5 square feet (.76 square meters) in addition. This will give you a total of 27.5 square feet (8.4 square meters) of subway tile you will need to purchase. Remove outlet and light switch covers. Use a flathead screwdriver and unscrew the plastic covers from the outlets and light switches. After removing them, place the screws and the covers in plastic bags so you don't lose any pieces. You'll replace the covers once you've installed your backsplash. Sketch your tile design on the wall. Start by determining how many tiles can fit vertically and horizontally in the area you want to cover. Next, figure out where you need to place partial pieces of tile (pieces that you will cut). A lot of this depends on your taste. Finally, take a pencil and draw on the wall where you plan to place individual tiles. Factor in 1/8th of an inch (.32 cm) between tiles and the wall for grout lines. You may want to choose between centering whole pieces of tile or starting at the top with whole pieces and finishing the bottom with cut/partial pieces (if there isn't enough space for whole pieces). Lay your tile out. After you've sketched your design on the wall, you should assemble all of the pieces you need to complete your project. It is best to lay out your pieces on a large table or on the floor in another room. This way, you'll be able to match the pieces to the places on the wall where they will go. Don't cut any partial pieces yet. Set aside all of the pieces you'll need to cut partial pieces. After placing full pieces on your wall, you may find that the size of the partial pieces you'll need is a little different than what you anticipated. Place a cloth or plastic cover over your countertops and appliances. Use a cloth or plastic to cover anything you want to protect from adhesive, grout, and caulk. Most importantly, place cloth or plastic over your countertops, on appliances, and on any furniture in the immediate area. Secure drop clothes to countertops and appliances with painter's tape. Cover the edges of cabinets and appliances with painter’s tape. Take the time to systematically cover the edges of cabinets, appliances, and woodwork. This way, you'll protect cabinets and more from being stained with grout or caulk. Rub 80-grit sandpaper back and forth on the area you are tiling. When your sandpaper wears out and isn't as abrasive, use a fresh piece. Make sure you sand the entire surface that you are tiling. Sanding will make it easier for the tile to adhere to the wall. Use a trowel to apply pre-mixed mastic to the wall. Mastic is the adhesive, much like mortar, you'll use to secure the tile to your wall. Spread enough pre-mixed mastic on the wall so you can place 1 row of tile for about 4 linear feet (1.2 m). This way, you'll be able to place your tiles before the mastic starts to dry. Switch to a v-notched trowel to remove excess mastic from the wall. Hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle. Gently sweep vertically over the mastic. This will remove excess mastic and will also create grooves that will help the tile adhere to the wall. Separate your tiles with 1/8 inch (.32 cm) tile spacers. Place one tile (or one sheet of tiles) on the wall at a time. Once you're done with the 4 foot (1.2 m) row segment, apply more mastic and place more tile on the wall. Continue this process until you've covered the majority of your drywall with complete tiles. Use a toothpick or another tool to remove excess mastic from between the tiles. Slide your tool of choice into the space between tiles and push out any mastic that was forced up when you placed the tile. By removing excess mastic, you'll make sure there is plenty of room for grout when you apply it. Cut partial tiles. In spaces where a whole tile won't fit, you'll have to cut smaller pieces of whole tile. Use a wet saw to cut your tiles. If you don't have a wet saw, you can purchase a ceramic tile cutter. Before cutting a tile, use a pencil to outline where you need to cut it. Allow the tiles to set overnight. Before grouting, caulking, and finishing your job, wait at least 12 hours for the mastic to dry and the tiles to set. If you don't, you could wind up displacing your tiles. Remove spacers from between your subway tiles. Move over your tiles from the left to the right and remove all of the spacers you placed to separate the tiles from one another. If you don't remove the spacers before applying grout, you'll have problems with your grout in the future. If the spacer won't come out, use a flathead screwdriver to pry it out. Be careful not to damage the tile. Open your premixed grout 15 minutes before you use it. While you can mix your own grout , it is much easier to purchase premixed grout and apply it without preparation. However, make sure you don't open the grout until you're ready to use it. If you open it earlier, it may begin to dry before you use it. Spread grout with a float back and forth. Scoop up a generous amount of grout from your bucket with your float. Spread the grout over the spaces between your tiles. Apply extra grout, as you want to make sure you're completely filling all grout lines. Avoid filling the space between your tiles and your counter, appliances, or windows. You'll fill these in with caulk later. Remove excess grout with a float. Run your float lightly across the grouted portions of your tile. Use it to scope up as much excess grout as you can. By removing grout, you'll make your cleanup process a lot easier. You'll also be able to use the excess grout elsewhere in your project. Shape your grout with a pen, pencil, or the rounded edge of a float. Take a rounded tool and run it along your grout lines. This will give a slightly concave appearance to your grout lines. It will also help to compact the grout and fill any pockets that aren't already filled. Use a sponge to remove any grout haze. Dampen a sponge in cool clean water. Wipe your tiles in a back-and-forth fashion. Rinse your sponge after you've wiped down one 4 foot (1.2 m) row of tiles. Continue to wipe your tiles until you've removed any grout or grout haze that remains on them. Caulk the edges between your tiles and cabinets, windows, and appliances. Use a caulk that closely matches the color of the grout you used. Squeeze your caulk gun or the tube slightly to push out just enough caulk to fill the gap. Finally, dampen one of your fingers in warm water and use it to smooth the caulk. You can use a rounded end of a pen, pencil, or another object instead of your finger. Place painter's tape on the face of the tiles adjacent to where you'll caulk. Remove the tape shortly after you've applied the caulk.

Measure the area and purchase 10% more tile than you need. Remove outlet and light switch covers. Sketch your tile design on the wall. Lay your tile out. Place a cloth or plastic cover over your countertops and appliances. Cover the edges of cabinets and appliances with painter’s tape. Rub 80-grit sandpaper back and forth on the area you are tiling. Use a trowel to apply pre-mixed mastic to the wall. Switch to a v-notched trowel to remove excess mastic from the wall. Separate your tiles with 1/8 inch (.32 cm) tile spacers. Use a toothpick or another tool to remove excess mastic from between the tiles. Cut partial tiles. Allow the tiles to set overnight. Remove spacers from between your subway tiles. Open your premixed grout 15 minutes before you use it. Spread grout with a float back and forth. Remove excess grout with a float. Shape your grout with a pen, pencil, or the rounded edge of a float. Use a sponge to remove any grout haze. Caulk the edges between your tiles and cabinets, windows, and appliances.

https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Blood-Meal

How to Use Blood Meal

To use blood meal, start by using a soil testing kit, or checking if your vegetable leaves are yellow or wilted to tell whether your soil needs nitrogen. If you determine that your soil needs nitrogen, buy a high-quality blood meal that's USDA approved. Next, begin applying the blood meal in early spring and reapply every 2 months during the growing season. In order to figure out how much blood meal you'll need, measure the space where you'd like to use it, and use 1 cup of blood meal for every 20 square feet of soil.

Test your soil to see if it needs nitrogen. Buy a simple soil test from your local nursery or garden center and use a sample of soil from your garden or plant container. Follow the test kit instructions to get accurate results. The test will tell you the levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. For example, the test will tell you if there's a surplus of nitrogen, sufficient levels, a deficiency of nitrogen, or if it's completely depleted. See if your vegetable leaves are yellow or wilted. Look at your plant leaves for signs of a nitrogen deficiency. The leaves will look yellow or wilted because they don't have enough nitrogen to make chlorophyll. Plants that use a lot of nitrogen and benefit from blood meal include: Tomatoes Peppers Radishes Onions Squash Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, spinach, brussels sprouts) Lettuce Corn Consider using blood meal as a deterrent for outdoor pests. If rabbits, deer, or small garden pests continue to damage your plants, you can spread a little blood meal directly to the area. Keep in mind that if you sprinkle too much, you'll burn the grass or plants. Blood meal will wash away after a strong rain, so you may need to reapply it occasionally. While blood meal may keep plant-eating pests away, it can attract meat-eaters, such as dogs, raccoons, or possums. Buy high-quality blood meal. Purchase USDA approved blood meal from local nurseries, garden centers, or home improvement stores. If you purchase the blood meal online, avoid buying it from countries that have lax laws on meat production because disease can be spread through the blood meal. For example, blood meal can't be imported to the U.S. from Europe because of the threat of Mad Cow disease. If you can't find high quality blood meal, consider using alfalfa meal or feather meal instead. Begin applying blood meal in early spring. Leafy vegetables, flowers, and plants can use a lot of nitrogen when they put on most of their growth. To help plants grow, apply the blood meal in spring. Because the plants will use the nitrogen and it will gradually wash away, reapply the blood meal every 2 months during the growing season. Avoid using blood meal year round since overuse can burn the plants or your lawn. Consider switching to a general fertilizer during the rest of the year. Determine how much blood meal you need for your space. Measure the space where you'd like to adjust the soil. Due to blood meal being so concentrated, you'll only need 1 cup for every 20 square feet of soil. For example a small container or window box may only need a few spoonfuls of blood meal while a 100 square feet garden will need 5 cups. Mix the blood meal with soil or water before spreading it. Read the manufacturer's instructions to determine if you need to mix the blood meal into the top few inches of soil. Some instructions may have you dilute the blood meal with water and pour it on the plant or soil. While you can sprinkle a little blood meal on soil to deter animals, always mix or dilute it when adjusting nitrogen levels in your soil. Avoid using blood meal on seedlings or beans and legumes. Although you can apply blood meal to the soil of many plants and vegetables, don't use it on peas, beans, and other legumes. The roots of legumes have bacteria that add nitrogen back into the soil. You should also avoid using blood meal on seedlings. Lower nitrogen in the soil if you've applied too much blood meal. If you accidentally spread too much blood meal, you'll notice that your plants may be growing large leaves, but aren't flowering. To reduce the nitrogen and help the plant recover from nitrogen burn: Remove any dried, discolored leaves from the plant. Spread wood mulch around the plant or over the soil. Apply bone meal or a phosphorous fertilizer. Use water to leach the nitrogen away from the plant or ground.

Test your soil to see if it needs nitrogen. See if your vegetable leaves are yellow or wilted. Consider using blood meal as a deterrent for outdoor pests. Buy high-quality blood meal. Begin applying blood meal in early spring. Determine how much blood meal you need for your space. Mix the blood meal with soil or water before spreading it. Avoid using blood meal on seedlings or beans and legumes. Lower nitrogen in the soil if you've applied too much blood meal.

https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Vinyl-Replacement-Windows

How to Install Vinyl Replacement Windows

Installing a vinyl replacement window is relatively straightforward, and you can do it in an afternoon provided you have the right tools. To start, you'll need to remove the old window by removing the inside trim, moldings, and stops with a broad chisel. Then, pry out the parting stops at the tops and sides of the window, and remove the top and bottom panes. You should also use pliers to remove the securing stapes holding the aluminum tracks in place. Before you install the new window, scrape off any loose paint, stain, or caulk with a paint scraper so the window goes in smoothly. Then, apply a thin, even line of caulk to the inside and outside edges of the stool. Set the new window into the frame, putting the bottom in first and lifting the rest of the window up into place. To secure the window, screw it into the wall, then add insulation around the frame and opening.

Measure the width and height of the window opening. Measure the top, the middle, and the bottom of the old window for width. Measure the right side, the left side, and the middle of the old window for height. Triple checking the measurements will ensure that you purchase the correct size window. When purchasing your new vinyl replacement windows, always use the smallest measurements. Otherwise, your window will be too large for the hole. Purchase a replacement window that fits the hole left by the old window. Replacement vinyl windows will have their dimensions clearly marked on the packaging. Purchase a window at a local home-improvement store, and make sure that it has 2 layers of glass for added insulation. For a correct fit, the replacement window should be approximately ⁄ 4 inch (0.64 cm) narrower than the opening width and height. If your window measurements are in between sizes, round the measurement down. Measure the replacement window in 3 places with a tape measure to confirm that these measurements are correct. This will ensure that it fits in the window opening. If your windows are an unusual size and a corresponding size of replacement window is not in stock at the home-improvement store, ask about custom ordering the vinyl windows. Remove the inside trim, moldings, and stops with a broad chisel. Slip the broad chisel around the edges of the currently installed window. Wiggle the chisel back and forth to loosen the paint and caulking between the window frame and the sashing. Then, pull off the trim and molding. Once you've removed the trim and molding, don't throw it away. Save these items for later use. Not all windows have stops. If yours do not, don't worry. In this case, you only need to remove the trim and moldings. Remove old cords and weights from the bottom sash. Weights and balances are used on some older models of aluminum or vinyl windows, but not on most modern windows. Carefully remove these items from the frame, using a pair of scissors to cut the cords if needed. You can throw old weights and cords away, since your new window will come equipped with these items. Pry out the parting stops at the top and sides of the window. Using your broad chisel again, pry the stops away from the window frame. Once you've pulled the stops out, set them aside. You'll reinstall them once the replacement window is in place. Be sure not to damage existing stops or openings. Also be careful not to jam your chisel into the window frame, since you'll install the replacement window in the same location. Remove the top and bottom sashes once the stops are out. The sashes should no longer be held in place against the window frame. Lift out the top sash first by pulling the bottom lip forward and out, away from the lower sash. Remove the bottom sash by pulling its upper lip upwards and outwards, straight towards your body. Dispose of the old sashes once you've removed them from the wall. Remove the securing staples that hold the aluminum tracks in place. If the existing window is fitted with aluminum tracks, use a pair of pliers to pull out the staples holding the tracks in place. Once the staples are out, lift out both the window sashes and the aluminum track. If the tracks are held in place with screws, remove the screws using a Philips-head screwdriver, then pull out the tracks. Scrape off any loose paint or stain. If the old window didn't come out smoothly, there may be paint remnants and loose caulk or expanding foam stuck to the window jambs. Run a paint scraper along the interior and exterior surfaces of the door jamb. Keep the scraper at about a 30°angle and apply firm pressure to scrape the jambs clean. Make sure that your replacement window fits in the frame. Close and lock the window sashes on the replacement window. Set the new window in the opening to verify that your earlier measurements were correct and the window fits snugly in the opening. Then, remove the window from the opening in your wall. If the replacement window doesn't fit correctly, return it to the hardware or home-improvement store and purchase the correct size. Fill empty weight cavities with fiberglass insulation. You may find that there are empty cavities on either side of the window frame once you've pulled out the old window and removed the cords and weights. If this is the case, stuff fiberglass insulation into these gaps to prevent cold air from building up inside your walls. If you don't have fiberglass insulation already on hand, you can purchase it by the foot at a local hardware or home-improvement store. Apply caulk to the inside and outside edges of the stool. Visit your local hardware store and purchase 1 tube of professional-grade exterior paintable caulk. Run a thin, even bead of caulk along the edges of the stool where it meets the window apron and the window sill. Also apply caulk to the outside blind-stops and along the top of the opening's header. Caulk will keep the stool of the window from being damaged by water drops. It will also prevent drafts from entering. Set the replacement window into the frame opening. Set the bottom of the window in first and lift the rest of the window up into place. To secure the window, butt the exterior window frame up against the opening blind stops. Do this from the interior wall side, and take care not to push the window clear out the other side of the wall. Make sure that the sashes are still locked when you set the window in place. Use a level tool to ensure that the window is level. The replacement window may not sit flat in the window hole as once you've set it in place. To determine if it's level, set a level on the top of the lower sash and look to see if the indicator bubble floats to the center of the tube. Even if the window looks level, it may be off-kilter to a very slight degree. If you don't have a level, purchase one at a local hardware store. The tool resembles a metal bar that's roughly 18 inches (46 cm) long. Insert shims beneath the window until it sits flat and opens smoothly. Shims are nearly flat pieces of wood that slightly raise the level of one side of the window. If the installed window doesn't cleanly open and close or if it's not level, place 1 shim at a time beneath the low side to raise it up. To secure the frame, also place shims at the middle of the frame and at the middle of the top and bottom sashes. Once the shims are in place and the window is square and opens and closes smoothly, snap off the shim stems. Install shims behind screw holes. This will prevent the frame from becoming warped when you tighten the screws through the window and into the frame. Place shims directly behind the jamb where each screw will be inserted. When you insert the screws, they'll pass directly through the shims. If the ends of the shims stick out once you've screwed the window into place, snap them off. Use screws to secure the window to the opening in your wall. Most replacement vinyl windows are screwed in place. Take your replacement screws and install them through the screw holes in the window sashing. Align the screws with the pre-existing holes in the wooden window frame. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver until they're firmly in place. The replacement window should have come with screws for installation when you purchased it. So, you won't need to purchase these screws separately. Install insulation around the window between the frame and opening. Use low-pressure expanding foam made from polyurethane. Shake the can and attach the narrow tube as directed. Stick the point of the tube in the gaps around your installed window, and squeeze the trigger until the gap is filled with foam. Be careful if you're using traditional expanding foam for the insulation, as installing too much insulation on top and bottom may cause window to bow. Insulation will block drafts and keep the window from letting hot or cold air you're your home. Reinstall the stops, trim, and molding that you removed earlier. Depending on the style of replacement vinyl windows that you purchased, these items may need to be screwed into place, or they may be held in place by pressure. If they need to be screwed in place, the screws will be included in the replacement window packaging. Work gently with the stops, since they're relatively delicate and can break easily. Stain or paint the interior surfaces of the window sash and frame. The exterior surface of replacement vinyl windows will already be finished. So, choose a color of stain or paint that you like and apply it to the exposed surfaces of the sash and frame. Wait 8-10 hours for the paint to dry. If the first layer of stain or paint is too translucent for your tastes, apply a second layer.

Measure the width and height of the window opening. Purchase a replacement window that fits the hole left by the old window. Remove the inside trim, moldings, and stops with a broad chisel. Remove old cords and weights from the bottom sash. Pry out the parting stops at the top and sides of the window. Remove the top and bottom sashes once the stops are out. Remove the securing staples that hold the aluminum tracks in place. Scrape off any loose paint or stain. Make sure that your replacement window fits in the frame. Fill empty weight cavities with fiberglass insulation. Apply caulk to the inside and outside edges of the stool. Set the replacement window into the frame opening. Use a level tool to ensure that the window is level. Insert shims beneath the window until it sits flat and opens smoothly. Install shims behind screw holes. Use screws to secure the window to the opening in your wall. Install insulation around the window between the frame and opening. Reinstall the stops, trim, and molding that you removed earlier. Stain or paint the interior surfaces of the window sash and frame.

https://www.wikihow.com/Brush-a-Cat

How to Brush a Cat

Brushing a cat is part of being a responsible cat parent. Regularly brushing sessions help to cut down on loose dander, the number of hair balls your cat coughs up, and the amount of fur your cat sheds. You'll need different tools depending on whether your cat is a short hair or long hair, but for both, it's recommended that you wear rubber gloves. Regardless of your cat's hair length, the inspections that you perform before each brushing can help you spot problems in their early stages while they are still treatable. In other words, a routine brushing can save your kitty's life. To brush your cat, first put on some rubber gloves. Start by using a metal brush or fine-toothed comb to gently brush your cat with the grain of its fur, being extra careful around its ears. If your cat lets you, move the brush towards its side and belly but stop immediately if it starts to hiss or swat at the brush. When you're done brushing, pet your cat all over to pick up loose hairs. Repeat the process twice a week to lessen the risk of hair balls.

Wear sterilized rubber gloves. This is a precautionary measure if you find signs of irritation on your cat's skin. You'll be less likely to pass germs into any open wounds. If you find ticks, you'll be able to remove them before they can do further harm to your cat. Recognize what healthy fur and skin look like. Make sure the fur is glossy and smooth. After your stroke it, it should spring back into place. Make sure the skin is soft and free of blemishes. Call your vet if you find dandruff, bumps, bald spots, or wounds. Although these symptoms might signal conditions that can be treated with simple lifestyle changes, they might signal something more serious like mange or a hormonal imbalance. Search for signs of fleas. Do this especially if you notice your cat scratching more than usual. Use a flea comb for this step. Look for flea droppings. They're small, dark objects that look like grains of sand. You should also look and feel for flea eggs. Because they're white, they can blend in with your cat's skin. Like flea dirt, they feel like grains of sand. Other symptoms include bald spots, skin irritation, and pale lips/gums. If you find one or more fleas, your cat probably has many more. Call your vet as soon as possible to work out a treatment plan. Look for ticks. This usually isn't a problem for indoor cats, but it's a good idea to check no matter where your cat spends their time. Ticks are very small when they're not gorged with blood. They're brown with teardrop-shaped bodies. When they're full of blood, they look like large gray cysts hanging out of the animal's skin. If you find a tick unattached to your cat's skin, grab it as quickly as possible with a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to pinch your cat's skin. Kill the tick by drowning it in a small container of rubbing alcohol. If the tick has its head in your cat's skin, smother the area with petroleum jelly first. This will cut off the tick's source of air and cause it to back its head out. When it does back out, grab it with the tweezers and drown it in the rubbing alcohol. Disinfect the area before proceeding with grooming. Check under the tail. Look for any fecal matter that might have gotten matted in with your cat's hair. This is often a problem in older cats and cats with long hair. You should also check for small tan objects that look like grains of rice. This could indicate tapeworm, which requires immediate veterinary attention. If you do find fecal matter in your cat's fur, try removing it with a fine-toothed comb. If this doesn't work—and if your cat doesn't object to getting wet—rinse the area with warm water. If you can't remove the feces through these measures, contact your vet. Move from head to tail. Use a metal brush or fine-toothed comb. Brush with the grain of the fur. If you go against the grain, you could cause your cat great discomfort. Move gently, yet with enough force to remove loose fur. Be careful when brushing around your cat's ears. Some cats are very sensitive in this area. Many cats love being brushed on their faces. If your cat starts to rub their cheek or mouth on the brush, don't stop them. It will help them to enjoy being groomed. Brush your cat's sides and abdomen. Continue to move with the grain of your cat's fur. Brush the sides first. Using caution, gradually and slowly move toward their belly. If they let you brush their belly, continue in the direction of the hair growth. If they hiss or start to swat, stop what you're doing. Most cats are very protective of this area of their body, as it makes them feel vulnerable. Finish with damp rubber gloves. Apply a small dab of water to your gloves and spread it around the palm and fingers. Pet your cat as you normally would. This will help to relax them and give their coat a glossy shine. It will also pick up any loose hairs that the comb or brush missed. Remove fur when the brush is full. Depending on how thick your cat's undercoat is, you might have to do this several times per brushing session. Quickly pull the fur out of the brush. Place the fur ball(s) to the side until you're completely finished. Repeat 2 to 3 times a week. Make a note of how much shedding you see at different times of the year. Depending on the climate, your cat might need an extra brushing session on certain weeks. Stick to a regular schedule so that your cat can get used to the routine. This will also lessen the risk of hairballs. Brush with a wide-toothed comb. Comb with the grain of the fur. If you go against the grain, you could cause your cat great discomfort. Move gently, yet with enough force to remove loose fur. Start combing at your cat's head and gradually move toward their tail. Comb the longer locks on the armpits and belly. Continue to move with the grain of the fur. Look and feel for tangled balls of fur called mats, which are very common in these areas. Be very gentle as you brush and search. Many cats feel threatened when touched in these areas. It might take them several brushing sessions to get used to being combed there. Detangle any mats. Try using your fingers first. Gently work out each mat in downward strokes. Start at the bottom of the matted hair and gradually work your way up as it detangles. If this doesn't work, use a mat-splitter, working in the same manner as your did with your fingers. You can buy a mat-splitter in any pet supply store. If you encounter one or more stubborn mats, don't try to cut or shave them off yourself. You might unknowingly cut your cat's skin. Call your vet or groomer for a professional detangling as soon as possible. Breeds like the Norwegian forest cat require extra care due to the long tufts of fur that grow from the pads of their feet. If you're lucky enough to have a cooperative kitty, comb any mats or kitty litter out of these tufts with a finer-toothed comb. If they put up a fuss, contact your vet. Use a rubber mitten. After you put the mitten on, pet your cat in a normal fashion. This will pick up any dead hair from the undercoat or topcoat. It will also help to relax your cat, especially if you had to de-mat their hair. Rubber mittens are available in most pet supply stores. Finish with damp rubber gloves. Apply a small dab of water to your gloves and spread it around the palm and fingers. Pet your cat as you normally would. This give their coat a glossy shine. It will also pick up any loose hairs that the comb or brush missed. Remove fur when the brush is full. Depending on how thick your cat's undercoat is, you might have to do this several times per brushing session. Quickly pull the fur out of the brush. Place the fur ball(s) to the side until you're completely finished. Repeat every one to two days. It's a myth that all long-haired cats shed more often than short-hairs. However, they are more prone to matting and hairballs. Daily brushing (or brushing every other day) will make these hazards less likely to occur.

Wear sterilized rubber gloves. Recognize what healthy fur and skin look like. Search for signs of fleas. Look for ticks. Check under the tail. Move from head to tail. Brush your cat's sides and abdomen. Finish with damp rubber gloves. Remove fur when the brush is full. Repeat 2 to 3 times a week. Brush with a wide-toothed comb. Comb the longer locks on the armpits and belly. Detangle any mats. Use a rubber mitten. Finish with damp rubber gloves. Remove fur when the brush is full. Repeat every one to two days.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Pell-Grants

How to Get Pell Grants

To get a Pell grant, make sure you meet the requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen and having a low family income. Then, file a FAFSA form with the government starting January 1 and wait a few days before checking your student aid report online. Next, expect to receive a letter notifying you of the aid amount from each college you listed on your FAFSA form. Once you've picked a school, expect the university to automatically issue you a check or apply the money to your student account each semester.

Enroll as an undergraduate student. Once you've completed high school or gotten your GED and have been accepted into a college or university, you can enroll as a student. Pell grants are mainly for undergrads, but certain students (namely those in teaching programs) qualify for them at the master's level. It doesn't matter whether you're full-time, part-time, or even less than part time! Though the amount of money will decrease with fewer credit hours being taken, you'll still qualify. For males, register with the Selected Service. This is just part of growing up as an American male. You have to register for the Selected Service at some point between the ages of 18 and 25. If you want federal aid, that time is now! (Just have your SSN at the ready.) As with anything that's even semi up-to-date, you can do it online. While women are more than welcome into combat positions nowadays, they are still exempt from having to sign up. Legal aliens, on the other hand, are not exempt, and too must register. Prove you're a citizen (or an eligible non-citizen). In order to fill out the FAFSA, you'll need documentation that you're a US citizen or otherwise eligible. You'll need a valid Social Security number unless you're from the Marshall Islands, Palau, or Micronesia. If you are not a US citizen, you will need a green card, an arrival-departure record, battered immigrant status, OR a T-Visa (or a parent with a T-1 Visa). Meet the financial requirements. When you file the FAFSA, little government elves go to work, calculating your expected family contribution , or EFC. That number is subtracted from the cost of attendance, and after a few other considerations (dependent status, etc.), your EFC is determined. If your number is greater than $5,081 (for 2013-14), you do not qualify for a Pell grant. Households that make less than $24,000 will have an EFC of zero. For more information on the EFC and how its calculated, the Department of Education has formula guides online. You won't really know what your EFC is until you try -- so even if you think you or your family's income is too high, apply anyway! No harm, no foul. Generally, families that make up to $50,000 or so qualify. Act promptly. As long as you meet your school's financial aid deadline, you'll receive your Pell grant in full. However, it's always a good idea to get these things done sooner rather than later. The FAFSA can be filed (and the Pell grant thusly applied for) as soon as January 1st of each year. The closer you are to that date, the better off you'll be. Other loans, however, are first come, first served. When you get your award letter from your institution, they may have given you other grants -- the likelihood of which is maximized if you act quickly. Gather up your important documents. You'll need your social security card, tax information and pay stubs if available. If you have yet to file taxes for the year, you can give your estimated tax information based on last year, but you'll need to update eventually. If you are a non-citizen, you'll need your records, such as you green card, to complete the FAFSA. Create a personal identification number, or pin. This is your "federal student aid pin." This will be your number for the rest of your college career. Even though you'll file the FAFSA each year, you'll use the same pin over and over. If you are a dependent, your parent(s) will need a pin, too. Go to FAFSA's website. Enter your pin and start filling out the form! This takes about 30 minutes to fill out and is pretty straightforward. You may fill it out on paper, but doing it online is much, much, much quicker. You'll be asked personal questions (like your address (tough one!)), financial questions, and then your parents will have to answer questions, too. Nothing too prying! You can fill out the FAFSA if you haven't been accepted (or done the accepting to) anywhere yet. Up to ten schools may be listed on the form. Wait for your SAR. It should only take a few days to see your student aid report, or SAR. In fact, you can start checking the status online as soon as you submit your FAFSA. Once you get your SAR, you'll know how much aid you'll receive. This is the part where you get notified of your EFC. It doesn't mean you have to pay it though! At least not right now. It's just used to calculate aid. Get award letters from your schools. Each school that you were accepted to will notify you of the aid you qualify for (if you listed them on your FAFSA). Most likely, each school will be different. When you filled out the FAFSA, each school you list was be notified of your information and is therefore able to award you accordingly. If you've been accepted to more than one, weigh them against each other! If you qualified for the Pell grant, you will get it from every school. Each student that qualifies gets the amount they qualify for. However, cheaper schools may result in smaller grants. Let your school handle the processing. Once you've enrolled in a specific school, the aid will come to you. Your school will either issue you a check, apply the funds to your student account, or a mixture of both. It usually happens once per term. For the record, the maximum amount anyone can receive is $5,635 (2013-2014). And, of course, you can only receive it from one school at a time. Keep your grades up and record clean. Though every student who qualifies "will receive their grant in full," there are a few small exceptions. The government likes to know you're going to stick to your word -- if you're failing out of college, they may deem you a lost cause and cease aid. What's more, the better your grades, the more other grants you may receive, so it's just good common sense. If you receive a criminal conviction while you're a student, your eligibility may change. Don't assume you can't get funds, but do know that it may be more difficult. It all depends on your specific situation. Finish in six years. You are only eligible for Pell grants for 12 semesters, or six years. They do not have to be consecutive, but that is the limit. You will receive a notification if you are nearing the checkpoint. File every year. In order to receive loans and grants, you have to file the FAFSA every year. This is because your tax information may change and has to be accounted for. Though you'll use the same pin, you still have to file. Act quickly. Though the Pell grant is not awarded on a first come, first served basis, it is best to do it as quickly as possible. The earlier you apply, the more other grants you may receive.

Enroll as an undergraduate student. For males, register with the Selected Service. Prove you're a citizen (or an eligible non-citizen). Meet the financial requirements. Act promptly. Gather up your important documents. Create a personal identification number, or pin. Go to FAFSA's website. Wait for your SAR. Get award letters from your schools. Let your school handle the processing. Keep your grades up and record clean. Finish in six years. File every year.

https://www.wikihow.com/Test-for-Diabetes

How to Test for Diabetes

To test for diabetes, talk to your doctor if you notice common symptoms of diabetes, like increased thirst, increased urination, or increased appetite. You might also experience tingling in your hands or feet, lethargy, blurred vision, or unexplained weight loss. After talking with your doctor, they can test your blood to determine if you have diabetes. Keep in mind that most tests will need to be performed twice on separate days to make a reliable diagnosis.

Understand the main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to produce insulin, a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood and helps to transfer the glucose to your cells for energy. If your body isn't producing insulin, this means that the glucose stays in your blood and your blood sugar level can become too high. By contrast, type 2 diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to utilize and store glucose properly thanks to insulin resistance, which is usually connected to being overweight. In cases where there is excess weight, the muscle, liver and fat cells do not process insulin properly and the pancreas simply can't produce enough, causing blood glucose levels to increase. Type 1 diabetes (formerly known as juvenile diabetes) is usually diagnosed in children or teens, and can develop within just a few weeks. Meanwhile, type 2 develops over a period of time and with age, though it is becoming more and more common for children to experience early onset type 2 diabetes due to obesity. Approximately 10 percent of all diabetics are type 1 and require insulin to survive, whereas the overwhelming majority of diabetics are type 2 diabetics who suffer from an impaired glucose metabolism that leads to insulin deficiency. There's also gestational diabetes, which occurs only during pregnancy. Because of the increase in hormone production during pregnancy, the amount of insulin is also increased to control glucose levels in the blood; however, if the body can't meet this demand for more insulin, then diabetes results. Gestational diabetes usually disappears after the birth, but can put the mother at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes later in life. Be aware of the symptoms. Get tested if you exhibit the classic triad of diabetic symptoms: increased thirst (polydipsia), increased urinary frequency (polyuria), and increased hunger. You can assess whether you're experiencing an increase in these symptoms based on what is usually "normal" for you. For example, if you usually urinate seven or so times per day, but now urinate a lot more and have to get up in the middle of the night, something is not right and you should consult your primary care physician. Other symptoms include: A compromised immune system (e.g., wounds that don't heal quickly, persistent and recurring infections, such as a foot fungus or athlete's foot, yeast infections in the genitals or mouth, etc.) Tingling or pain in the hands or bottom of the feet (peripheral neuropathy) Lethargy and fatigue Blurred vision Increased appetite Unexplained weight loss Know the risk factors. Most of of the symptoms and risk factors for diabetes hold true for people age 45 and over; however, they're also being seen more often in obese people under age 40 and especially in obese teens. Major risk factors for developing diabetes include: A family history of diabetes High blood pressure (140/90 or higher) High level of triglycerides (250 mg/dL or higher) Low high-density lipoprotein, or HDL (good cholesterol) level (35 mg/dL or lower) Ethnicity (African-American, Hispanic, Native American or Pacific Islander) Obesity (a body mass index (BMI) higher than 25) A history of gestational diabetes Delivering a baby who weighed more than 9 lbs Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Existing cardiovascular disease The diagnosis of prediabetes Know the screening guidelines. Healthy individuals without risk factors should get screened for diabetes at age 45 and then every three years thereafter. For those in high-risk groups, there is no clear-cut consensus on when screening should start, but the American Academy of Endocrinology has offered that a baseline screening should be sought for all those in the high-risk groups listed above. Note that those who belong to higher risk ethnic groups (African Americans, Hispanics, Native American, and Pacific Islanders) should get screened for diabetes at age 30, according to the American Academy of Endocrinology. If you have have been diagnosed with prediabetes, you should be checked for type 2 diabetes everyone one to two years. If you're younger than 45 but are overweight or obese, consider getting screened for prediabetes or diabetes. More than one-third of diabetics go for several years without a diagnosis, so it is best to follow these screening guidelines, as early diagnosis and treatment improves outcomes and decreases the likelihood of developing related health problems and conditions. Know that there are several methods to diagnose diabetes. These tests all involve testing your blood, although they do all not measure the same thing. Testing must be conducted in a certified and sanitary health care facility, such as a physician's office or medical laboratory. Each test usually needs to be repeated on a different day so that there are then two tests that can be used to reliably diagnose diabetes. There are three main tests used to diagnose whether someone has prediabetes (meaning you are at greater risk of developing diabetes) or diabetes: a glycated hemoglobin test, a fasting plasma glucose test, and an oral glucose tolerance test. Note that if the blood glucose level of your blood is considered higher than normal according to one of the tests below and if you are showing classic symptoms of high blood glucose, your doctor may not require a second repeat test to make a correct diagnosis. Get a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. This blood test provides information about your blood sugar levels over the past two to three months by measuring the percentage of blood sugar attached to the hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in the red blood cells. The higher your blood sugar levels, the more sugar will be attached to the hemoglobin. A level of less than 5.7% is considered normal, while a level of 5.7% to 6.4% is considered to prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher is indicative of diabetes. This test is the standard test for diabetes assessment, management, and research. You won't need to make a special appointment at a blood lab, but instead show up with your requisition form and get a standard blood sample drawn that is then sent to the laboratory for testing. In addition, this test is advantageous in that you don't have to fast or drink anything prior to testing. It can also be performed at any time of the day. Usually you will be tested twice, with each test occurring on a different day, to assess the average percentage of blood attached to your hemoglobin. The A1C test is not recommended if it is suspected that you have type 1 or gestational diabetes. Undergo a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test. This test assesses your fasting blood glucose levels. "Fasting" means that you refrain from eating or drinking anything but water, black coffee or unsweetened tea for eight hours prior to the blood test. Your doctor will look at a variety of factors from this blood test, including the glucose level, cholesterol and levels of enzymes in the liver and kidneys, as these organs are affected by diabetes. This test is the most common diagnostic tool for diabetes because it is more convenient and cost-effective than the oral glucose tolerance test. A normal reading is considered one of less than 100 mg/dl, while a reading of 100 to 125 indicates pre-diabetes. An FPG level of 126 is indicative of diabetes. Note that you will need to plan ahead for this test since you have to fast. For your own ease and comfort, this test is usually done first thing in the morning, before breakfast. Your doctor may want to repeat the same test on another day to confirm that the results are reliable. If your FPG level is very high, if you are showing symptoms of diabetes, or if you have been previously diagnosed as pre-diabetic, your doctor may want to move on to the next test in his arsenal, the oral glucose tolerance test to get a quick and firm diagnosis. Have the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) test. This is a two-hour test that evaluates your blood glucose levels before and after you have a drink that is specially sweetened so your doctor can see how your body processes sugar. To prepare for this test, you'll need to make an appointment in advance for this test and fast eight hours before. At the beginning of your appointment, the doctor or nurse will test your blood glucose level (most likely with a simple finger-prick test, where your finger is pricked and the sugar in your blood is calculated via a digital monitor). You'll then drink a glucose beverage and sit for about two hours before someone tests your blood again. A level of 139 mg/dl or below is considered normal, while a reading of 140 to 199 indicates pre-diabetes, and 200 or higher indicates diabetes. Pregnant women undergo the OGTT to determine gestational diabetes; however, their glucose levels are tested four times with high (diabetic) levels being 95 or higher fasting, 180 or higher after one hour, 155 or higher after two hours, and 140 or higher after three hours. Get a random plasma glucose test. Also called a Casual Plasma Glucose Test, this test is a blood check that occurs at any time of the day (meaning is not predicated on fasting the day before). This is usually reserved for individuals who have severe diabetes symptoms. In this test, diabetes is diagnosed when your blood glucose is 200 mg/dl or higher.

Understand the main types of diabetes. Be aware of the symptoms. Know the risk factors. Know the screening guidelines. Know that there are several methods to diagnose diabetes. Get a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. Undergo a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test. Have the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) test. Get a random plasma glucose test.

https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-a-Garter-Snake

How to Take Care of a Garter Snake

To take care of a garter snake, keep it in a 30-50 gallon plastic tub or aquarium that's fitted with a tight-fitting lid. Cover the bottom of the container with at least 2 inches of a substrate like shredded newspaper, alfalfa meal, or aspen shavings. Include a place for the snake to hide, like an upside-down box or a paper towel tube, which will help the snake feel more secure. Also, since snakes are cold-blooded and require warmth, make sure to set up a heating pad, light bulb, and thermometer to keep the cage between 75-85°F.

Choose a 30–50 US gal (110–190 L) plastic tub or aquarium with a lid. It is suitable to house smaller and younger garter snakes in smaller enclosures, while larger garter snakes require larger housing. Garter snakes are very active, so the enclosure needs to be big enough for them to move about. Ensure that the plastic tub or aquarium has a lid that is tight fitting. This is because garter snakes are known for being escape artists. A screen lid that snaps onto the enclosure is best. If the lid has any areas of mesh or grille, check that the snake won't be able to climb through past its eyes, as this means that it will be able to fit all the way through the gap. An enclosure for 2 garter snakes should be approximately 55 US gal (210 L). Fill the enclosure with a minimum of 2 in (5.1 cm) of substrate. The material that covers the floor of the enclosure is called the substrate. This needs to be kept dry and wet substrate needs to be removed in order to keep the garter snake healthy. Ideal substrate choices for garter snakes are newspaper, paper towels, aspen shavings, alfalfa meal, and reptile bark. Substrates that are unsafe for garter snakes include cedar, pine, or juniper tree bark chips, sand, clay cat litter, gravel, and dirt. Only use newspapers and/or paper towels for baby garter snakes. Garter snakes like to burrow into the substrate, so you can always add a little more. Add cage furniture to help the garter snake to feel more secure. Snakes require at least 1 dark space to hide in within their enclosure. You can use plastic bowls, cardboard boxes, toilet paper tubes, or specialty snake hide boxes that can be purchased from pet stores or online. Cage furniture such as fake or real plants, wood, rocks, and decorations can also be good additions to the enclosure as the snake will enjoy exploring the objects. Aim to have the opening to the hide box just slightly bigger than the width of the snake. It needs to be large enough for the snake to fit in, yet small enough so that the snake can feel enclosed and safe. Use a heating pad and a light bulb to maintain the temperature. Garter snakes are cold-blooded animals which means that they need their enclosure to be 75–85 °F (24–29 °C) in order to survive. Place a heating pad below 1 side of the enclosure and install a reflector or incandescent bulb above it. Use a thermometer to monitor that the warm part of the enclosure doesn't rise above 86 °F (30 °C) and that the cool part doesn't drop below 72 °F (22 °C). This creates a temperature gradient which means that the temperature changes depending on the location inside the enclosure. The heating pad can be one specifically for reptiles or it can be a regular electric blanket that is set to the lowest temperature. It's important to create a temperature gradient inside the enclosure. This allows the garter snake to move to a warmer area such as the heating pad if needed. It also lets the snake cool down in the cooler part of the enclosure. This is why the heating pad only warms part of the enclosure. A stick-on thermometer is an ideal way to get a good estimate of the temperature inside the enclosure. Temperatures that are above 91 °F (33 °C) can be dangerous for garter snakes. If the snake is moving quickly around the enclosure with its mouth open, this means that it is overheating. Immerse the snake in cool, running water and adjust the enclosure temperature to the appropriate range. Choose a water dish that is big enough for the snake to curl up in. Garter snakes need a water dish to both drink water from and to soak in. Pick a bowl that is large and shallow. Make sure that the water dish in the enclosure is always filled with enough fresh water for the snake to soak. Change the water every day. A common misconception about garter snakes is that they are aquatic creatures. While garter snakes do soak in the water from time to time, they need an enclosure that has plenty of dry areas to stay healthy. It is only the prey of wild garter snakes that are aquatic. Feed young garter snakes every 2-3 days. Give young garter snakes 2-3 earthworms, 2-3 feeder guppies, 1 large feeder platy, or 1/2-1/4 of a pinky mouse. Give the snake enough food so that it has a small, visible bulge. It's best to have young snakes on smaller, frequent meals as they can digest these more easily. A pinky mouse is a newborn mouse. Young garter snakes are generally 4.9–9.1 in (12–23 cm) in length. Feed adult garter snakes every 7-10 days. What you feed the garter snake determines how often you need to feed it. If you are feeding your garter snake mice, give the snake 1 thawed, adult mouse per week. For garter snakes that eat nightcrawlers, chop the nightcrawler into quarters and feed the snake 1 nightcrawler twice per week. Don't use live mice as these can attack the snake. Adult garter snakes are 18.1–53.9 in (46–137 cm) in length. Garter snakes can also eat frogs, toads, and fresh, whole fish. However, it isn't recommended to feed garter snakes on a diet of solely fish due to potential parasites and deficiencies. Garter snakes do not eat crickets or mealworms. Place the food on a paper towel or in a small dish inside the enclosure. Drop a thawed mouse onto a paper towel and the snake will usually investigate the food quickly. Use a small dish for worms and fish. Clean the feeding dish after each meal so that the enclosure doesn't smell. Avoid placing food directly onto substrate such as wood bark chips. This is because the substrate may stick to the food, which will interfere with the snake's digestion. If the snake won't eat the food, try moving the food around to see if the snake responds. Use tongs or tweezers to pick up a piece of food and wiggle it around to attract the attention of the snake. This should encourage the snake to eat the prey. Don't use your hands to hold the food as the snake may accidentally bite you while it grabs the food. Remove the snake before you clean the enclosure. Transfer the snake from the enclosure and into a small, plastic container with a lid. Make sure that the lid has small holes so that the snake can breathe, but that the holes aren't large enough for the snake to escape. If you cannot find a lid with holes, use an electric drill to create some. Change the substrate once per week if you're using paper towels. Remove the old substrate and discard it. Replace it with fresh, new paper towels. If the garter snake eats worms or fish, the substrate will need to be changed more frequently than if the snake is on a mouse diet. Replace the substrate every few months if it's shavings, mulch, or bark. Remove feces and urea every week from the enclosure and add small amounts of new substrate to top it up if necessary. Completely remove the substrate every couple of months to replace it. Clean the enclosure completely using soapy water every 2-3 months. Mix a few drops of dishwashing detergent into a bucket of warm water. Remove everything from the enclosure and use a cleaning rag to wipe down the enclosure walls and floor, the hides, the cage furniture, and the water bowl with the soapy water. Dry the enclosure fully using a clean rag before setting up the enclosure again and returning the snake. If you are using a paper towel substrate, in addition to cleaning the whole enclosure every few months, simply wipe down the glass where the paper towels are soiled when you change them. If the cage furniture cannot be cleaned, such as objects made from cardboard, replace it when you clean the enclosure. Cage furniture that is made from plastic or wood can be wiped down and dried. Handle the snake by letting it climb through your hands. Always pick up the snake gently from the mid-body area, rather than the head or tail. Support its body as you hold it so that it feels safe and secure. Let it curl around your hands to explore. Some garter snakes will be afraid of being handled at first. This means that it may thrash in your hands. In this scenario, keep a firm hold of it so that it doesn't fall. Other scared snakes may produce a foul-smelling liquid called musk. This isn't harmful and you can simply wash it off. Practice handling the snake regularly and helping it to feel safe and secure so that it feels more comfortable being handled. Take the snake out of the enclosure at least once per week. If your snake is new, give it a few days to settle in first and make sure that it eats its first meal. Handle the snake regularly so that it can get used to you and learn to trust you. Over time, the snake will become more comfortable with being handled. Regular handling also provides a good opportunity for checking the snake's health. Check the snake regularly to make sure it is healthy. Make sure that there aren't small lumps over its body or a hollow popping sound when it breathes, as this could indicate a problem with internal parasites. Check the snake's body for puffy, white sores which can indicate a blister disease that is caused by living in conditions that are too moist. Also, make sure that the snake sheds properly and doesn't retain old skin around its eyes and tail. Take your snake to a veterinarian for treatment if it shows any of these symptoms.

Choose a 30–50 US gal (110–190 L) plastic tub or aquarium with a lid. Fill the enclosure with a minimum of 2 in (5.1 cm) of substrate. Add cage furniture to help the garter snake to feel more secure. Use a heating pad and a light bulb to maintain the temperature. Choose a water dish that is big enough for the snake to curl up in. Feed young garter snakes every 2-3 days. Feed adult garter snakes every 7-10 days. Place the food on a paper towel or in a small dish inside the enclosure. Remove the snake before you clean the enclosure. Change the substrate once per week if you're using paper towels. Replace the substrate every few months if it's shavings, mulch, or bark. Clean the enclosure completely using soapy water every 2-3 months. Handle the snake by letting it climb through your hands. Take the snake out of the enclosure at least once per week. Check the snake regularly to make sure it is healthy.

https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-a-Pok%C3%A9mon-in-Any-Game

How to Catch a Pokémon in Any Game

No matter which Pokémon game you prefer, you can catch a Pokémon with a little simple strategy. If you're playing Pokémon GO, tap the Pokémon you want to catch on the map, then tap the grass to prompt the Pokémon to pop up. Equip the Poké Ball you want to use, then tap and hold the ball before swiping up. Once the Poké Ball lands on the Pokémon, you should see stars, which mean you've caught the Pokémon.

Open Pokémon GO. Tap the Pokémon GO app icon, which resembles a Poké Ball. This will open the Pokémon GO interface. If you aren't logged into your Pokémon GO account, you'll need to tap Returning and enter your login information on the main screen when prompted. If you haven't yet downloaded Pokémon GO, you can do so for free from the iPhone's App Store or an Android's Play Store. Stock up on the right kind of Poké Balls. If you're planning on catching a Pokémon that's a higher level than you'd prefer, you may be able to use a Great Ball or an Ultra Ball to do so. You can find Pokémon GO supplies, including Ball variations, at PokéStops, which are blue icons on the map typically found at monuments and other public points of interest. When you arrive at a PokéStop, tap its icon on the map to open its interface. Walk until a Pokémon shows up. When you see a Pokémon appear on your map, you can stop walking and proceed. Select the Pokémon. Tap the Pokémon on the map to do so. This will open the AR viewer. You may have to confirm a prompt telling you not to use Pokémon GO in dangerous areas at this point. Search for the Pokémon's grass. Slowly move your iPhone or Android around you. When you see grass appear on-screen, you can proceed. Tap the grass. Doing so will prompt the Pokémon to pop up. You may have to tap the grass a couple of times before this happens. Select a different Poké Ball if necessary. If you selected different Balls to use from a PokéStop, you can equip the one you want to use by tapping the Poké Ball icon on the right side of the screen and then tapping the ball you want to use. Swipe up to throw Poké Balls. Tap and hold the ball to prime the Pokémon for catching, then swipe up. Swiping directly up on your smartphone's screen will toss a Poké Ball in an arc; the faster you swipe, the farther the ball will go. You're aiming for the colored circle that appears inside of white circle that's around the Pokémon. Your chances of catching the Pokémon are best when the circle is at its smallest. Wait for confirmation. Once the Poké Ball lands on the Pokémon successfully, you should see the Poké Ball rock about for a few seconds; if you see stars appear above the Ball, you've caught the Pokémon. If the Pokémon breaks out of the Ball, you'll have to try to catch it again. Consider saving your game before attempting to catch a Pokémon. This is optional, but recommended: in case the Pokémon faints, causes your Pokémon to faint, flees, or uses too many of your Poké Balls, you can reload the save to try to catch it again. This is especially important when attempting to catch rare or legendary Pokémon. Select the correct variation of Poké Ball. While standard Poké Balls have a 1x catch rate, you can use more expensive variations to increase your chances of catching harder Pokémon. The following Balls are available in every Pokémon game: Great Ball — Increases the catch rate to 1.5x. Ultra Ball — Increases the catch rate to 2x. Timer Ball — Increases the catch rate as the battle goes on. Wander around in some tall grass. Grass is found outside of virtually any city's limits. Walking around in it will eventually cause a Pokémon to appear, which will be indicated by a flashing screen and the Pokémon showing up opposite your character. Fight with the proper Pokémon. Depending on the Pokémon you're trying to catch, you may have to select a different Pokémon for the fight. You want a Pokémon that will do adequate damage without one-shotting the Pokémon you're trying to catch. Avoid using attacks that inflict a status effect (e.g., poison), as such effects can unexpectedly lower the Pokémon's health to the point where it faints before you can capture it. Get the other Pokémon's health down. At the very least, you'll want your selected Pokémon's health bar to turn orange; if you're attempting to capture a legendary Pokémon or a Pokémon that's a higher level than your Pokémon, try to get the health bar into the red zone. For some legendary Pokémon , you'll want to get the health bar down to the last 10 points or so before attempting to capture it. Select your Poké Ball. Go into the BACKPACK menu and select the ball you want to use. This will cause your character to throw the Poké Ball at the Pokémon. Wait for confirmation. After the ball is selected, an animation will play of the Poké Ball being tossed. The ball will then shift side-to-side a few times; if it does so three times and then stars come out from the ball, you've captured your Pokémon successfully. If the Pokémon breaks out of the ball, you'll need to try catching it again.

Open Pokémon GO. Stock up on the right kind of Poké Balls. Walk until a Pokémon shows up. Select the Pokémon. Search for the Pokémon's grass. Tap the grass. Select a different Poké Ball if necessary. Swipe up to throw Poké Balls. Wait for confirmation. Consider saving your game before attempting to catch a Pokémon. Select the correct variation of Poké Ball. Wander around in some tall grass. Fight with the proper Pokémon. Get the other Pokémon's health down. Select your Poké Ball. Wait for confirmation.

https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Donation-Receipt

How to Create a Donation Receipt

To create a donation receipt, include the name of your charity, and acknowledge that you have 501c3 status under the federal government. You also need to add the donor's name for the receipt to be valid, as well as the date of the donation and the amount of money given. If the donation wasn't financial, include a description like "5 men's shirts." Additionally, note whether the donor received any goods in return for their donation, because this will affect how much of the donation is tax deductible.

Pick a form. The receipt doesn't not need to be any particular style. That is, it can be a letter, a postcard, an email, or a form you fill in and hand to the donor, for instance. As long is it includes the appropriate information, it will fulfill the purpose of a donation receipt. Include your name and your status. One of the most important items to include in your donation is the name of your charity. In addition, you need to acknowledge that you are a non-profit, meaning you have 501c3 status under the federal government. Include the donor's name. You must include the donor's name on the receipt for it to be valid. Ask for the name when the donation is given, if it's not provided on a check or other statement. Add information about the donation. You'll need to include the date the donation was made, as well as the amount of the donation. If the donation was not in cash, you need to add a description of the donation, such as "five men's dress shirts" or "black leather love seat." You should not specify a value if the contribution was not money; that task is up to the donor. For instance, if your donor gave your charity new computers, your description could say "The donor John Doe gave four desktop computers. The computers are brand new this year." You should also include the brand and type of computers. If the donation is a vehicle, you must include the VIN number. Declare whether the donor received goods in return for the donation. The IRS makes a distinction between donations made without retribution and donations made that receive goods or services in return. This distinction is made because only the amount that exceeds the goods or services is considered tax deductible. For instance, if someone donated money and in return, she attended a charity dinner, that is considered goods or services. In that case, you need to provide a description of what she received and approximately how much those goods or services are worth. However, if someone just gave computers and didn't get anything in return, that means he did it purely for donation sake. In that case, you need to state that the donor did not receive goods or services in return for the donation. Some goods are considered insubstantial and do not qualify as good or services. The IRS has specific laws about such items, but in general, items such as cheap pens or mugs with your charity's logo on them do not count as goods or services that must be declared. If the only benefits received are intangible and of a religious nature, you need to make a statement relaying that information. Include extra information for vehicles over $500. Donations of vehicles require a few more statements from you, especially if you turn around and sell the vehicle. If the vehicle is between $250 and $500, you can use the standard donation receipt. If the vehicle is sold, you'll need the date the vehicle was sold, as well as the gross profits you made from the sale. You'll also need to declare that you sold the vehicle under an arm's length transaction that was made between two unrelated parties. Finally, you need to tell the donor that the deduction she takes on her taxes cannot be more than the the gross profits you made from the sale. If you keep the vehicle, you'll need to state that you intend to keep the vehicle to use for an extended period of time, as well as how you plan to use it. The IRS calls this "significant intervening use," and it means that you plan to use the vehicle extensively when it is donated. You'll also need to say how long you will use it and certify that you will not sell the vehicle before the date you state. Add a disclosure statement if required. Different states have different laws regulating nonprofits in the state. Some states require that you include a disclosure statement when writing acknowledgement letters or receipts. What is included in that disclosure varies by state, but many legal websites list the requirements. For instance, Virginia nonprofits are required to state that the donor can receive a financial statement about the nonprofit from the State Office of Consumer Affairs in the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. Sign the form. It's important for someone from the organization to sign the form. That acknowledges that the charity has created the document and signed off on the donation. Separate the thank you letter. If you're also including a thank you letter, it's good a idea to send it separately from the donation receipt. The donation receipt is created for tax purposes, while the thank you letter acknowledges the donor's contribution to the the organization. You can send them in the same envelope, but they should at least be on separate sheets of paper. Your donor may want to display the thank you letter without disclosing how much she donated. Keep a copy. If you happen to write the receipt by hand or create it in such a way that you don't have a saved copy on the computer, keep a copy of the receipt. You can make a photocopy or scan it into the computer, for instance. You'll need it for tax purposes later. Some organizations use receipt books that automatically make a carbon copy of the receipt. Give a receipt if possible for a donation over $250. To make a claim on taxes over $250, the donor must have a written acknowledgement from you, the charity. Though you are not required by law to provide it, you build goodwill with your donors by providing it. Donors can make claims on their taxes for donations under $250 with a bank statement to show they made the donation. Give a receipt for a donation of $75 that buys goods or services. If you provide a good or service in return for a donation of $75 or more, you are required to provide a receipt to the donor. That means that if the donor pays $75 and receives a calender or a dinner, for example, you must provide a receipt under law. Provide receipts upon request. Donors cannot claim donations over $250 on their taxes without a written receipt from the charity. Also, some donors just feel better having the receipt for donations under $250, and in fact, some may not have bank statements to prove they made the donation. Therefore, when a donor requests a receipt, even if the donation is under $250, provide one.

Pick a form. Include your name and your status. Include the donor's name. Add information about the donation. Declare whether the donor received goods in return for the donation. Include extra information for vehicles over $500. Add a disclosure statement if required. Sign the form. Separate the thank you letter. Keep a copy. Give a receipt if possible for a donation over $250. Give a receipt for a donation of $75 that buys goods or services. Provide receipts upon request.

https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Google

How to Use Google

To use Google to search the internet, navigate to the Google homepage where the search bar is located. Next, type in simple search terms and avoid using punctuation to get the best results. If you need very precise results, put quotations marks around your search terms and Google will only search for those exact words or phrases. Once you've entered your search, you can narrow down the results by clicking on tabs like "Web," "Image," and "Video" at the top of the results list.

Log in with your Google account. You can access the Gmail homepage from the menu bar at the top of the Google search engine. You will need to sign in with your Google account in order to access your Gmail inbox. Browse your emails. Your inbox is automatically sorted into tabs. The default tabs are Primary, Social, and Promotions. You can add Updates and Forums tabs to further sort your email. Primary are your personal emails between people. Social are emails from social networking services such as Facebook and Twitter. Promotions are emails that you receive from marketing that you have signed up for. View email conversations. Any replies to an email are grouped together into a single conversation. The most recent reply will be shown first, and previous emails in the conversation can be expanded with the Expand icon. Archive old messages. You can send older messages to the Archive to store them but keep them from cluttering up your inbox. Archived mail can be found in the All Mail label in the left menu. If someone replies to an archived mail, the conversation will be moved back to your inbox. Delete email you don’t need. Although Google provides a lot of free storage, you may want to delete messages to free up some space. Select the messages that you want to delete and click the Trash Can item. These emails will be permanently deleted after 30 days. Star important emails. You can add a Star to emails that you want to remember for later. This will mark the email with a Star icon, and you can use the left menu to browse only your Starred emails. Use this to mark emails that you need to replay to later, or emails that you don't want to have to dig for. You can add more icons by clicking the Gear menu and selecting Settings. In the General tab, look for the Stars section. Drag icons to In Use that you want to add. Once they've been added, click the Star icon multiple times on an email to scroll through the available icons. Use labels to sort your mail. In the Settings menu, click the Labels tab. Here you can browse through the preexisting labels, which will be listed in the left menu of Gmail. Click the “Create new label” button to create a new label. Click the Filters button to create a rule that will sort incoming mail into the labels you've created. Click the “Create a new filter” link to set up a new rule. You can have a filter set by who the email is from, who it is to, words in the subject, and words in the body. Once you have designated your filter, click “Create filter with this search”. Apply a rule to the filter. Once you have set the filter, check the “Apply the label:” box and select the label that you want. If you want it to go straight into the label and not appear in your inbox, check the “Skip Inbox” box. Compose an email. To write an email, click the red Compose button at the top of the left menu. A New Message window will open. Enter the address into the “To” field. If you have the person saved as a contact, you can enter their name and select them from the dropdown menu that appears. “Cc” will send a copy to another recipient. “Bcc” will send a copy to another recipient without any of the other recipients knowing. If you have multiple accounts linked to your Gmail account, you can choose which one you want to send the message from by clicking the arrow next to your address in the “From” field. You can change the formatting of your text by clicking on the “A” button next to the send button. This will open a small menu that allows you to change the font, size, color, as well as create lists and indents. You can attach a file to the email by clicking the paperclip icon. This will open a window that will allow you to browse your computer for a file to attach. There is a 25MB file size limit for attached files. You can send money using Google Wallet by hovering over the + sign and clicking the $ icon. Google will ask you to verify your identity if you have not already. You can insert images and Google Drive documents into your email by hovering over the + sign as well. Open Google Drive. You can access it from the top menu bar above Google sites. Google Drive replaced Google Docs, but shares much of the same functionality. You can create, edit, and share documents, as well as store files from your computer to be accessed anywhere. You will need to log in with your Google account. Google Drive is free with all Google accounts. Create a new document. Click the red Create button to start a new document. A list will open, allowing you to choose from a word processing document, a spreadsheet, a presentation, or a drawing. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/0\/01\/Use-Google-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Use-Google-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-357px-Use-Google-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"357","bigHeight":"268","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} You can add more functionality by clicking the “Connect more apps” button at the bottom of the list. You can browse other add-ons from Google as well as third-party developers. Edit your new document. Once you've chosen your format, you can start editing your document. Click on the title at the top to change it. Use the toolbar to make formatting adjustments. The toolbar options will change depending on the type of file that you are creating. All changes are saved automatically as you work. Download the document. If you want to download your document to your computer, click File and then select “Download as”. You will be given an option of file formats. Pick the one that matches the programs that you use. Share the document. You can share the document with other Google Drive users by clicking File and the selecting “Share…” This will open the Sharing Settings. Here you can add people to the list of collaborators, as well as link to the document using popular services such as Facebook and Twitter. Upload files from your computer. You can upload files that you want to backup from your computer to Google Drive. Click the red Upload button next to the Create button. You can choose to upload individual files or entire folders. Any file type can be uploaded to Google Drive. Certain files, such as Word documents, can be converted into Google documents by clicking the Settings menu in the Upload window. Your uploaded documents will be added to your Google Drive list. You can download the Google Drive program for your computer that will allow you to create a shared folder that syncs with Drive automatically. Click the “Connect Drive to your desktop” button to download it. All free Google Drive accounts come with 15 GB of storage (shared across all of your Google services). If you run out of space, delete unwanted files and emails, or purchase more storage from Google for a monthly fee. Create folders to sort your files. Click the Add Folder button at the top of Google Drive to create a custom folder. You can then drag and drop files into the folder, cleaning up your Drive interface. Go to the Google homepage and type your search. Formatting your search in different ways will affect the results that you receive. Try to keep your search terms simple to get the best results. Search using the important words, and leave out the question. The “I'm Feeling Lucky” button will take you directly to the first search result. Try to use words that the websites that you are looking for will use. For example, if your tooth is hurting, search “toothache” as opposed to “my tooth hurts”. This will result in more informative websites. If you need a precise result for your search, put quotations mark around it. This will make Google only search for the exact word or phrase in the quotes. For example, if you entered chocolate cookies , without quotes, Google would find any pages containing the word “chocolate” or the word “cookies” (but pages with both words do end up higher in the results). If you put “chocolate cookies” in the search it would search only for pages that contain that exact phrase. Exclude a word from a search by using a dash. Put the dash in front of the word that you want to exclude. This will allow you to remove unwanted search result. Enter equations to see the calculated result as the first entry. This will open the calculator tool in Google, which you can use to enter new equations. Enter units to be converted to have Google tell you the conversion. For example, enter 1 cup = ounces and the conversion will be displayed before website search results. You can then use the pull-down menus to change units. Most punctuation is ignored during a Google search. Sort your search results. Once you've entered your search, you can narrow down the results by clicking on the tabs at the top of the results list. Web shows websites. This is the default tab. Images shows a list of images that correspond to your search. If your search result matches a lot of images, the most popular ones will be displayed as a search result in the Web tab. Maps shows your search result on a map. Usually when you enter a location into the search, a map will appear in the Web tab. The shopping tab will show products available in your area or online that relate to your search. Blogs will show any blog posts that relate to your search. You can click the More tab to search through other Google services, such as the Play Store, Recipes, and more. Refine your search. You can add specific parameters to your search by opening the Advanced Search tool. You can open this by scrolling to the bottom of the search results and clicking the Advanced Search link. In the “Find pages with…” section, you can specify exactly how you want Google to search for your terms. These can be achieved through the regular search box as well, and the instructions are listed beside each entry. In the “Then narrow your results by…” section, you can add filters that will hide results that aren't relevant to you. You can set the desired language, region, update date, specific site, and more. For example, you could search for only French YouTube videos uploaded this year. Sign in to your Google account. Click the red Sign In button in the top-right corner to sign in with your Google account. This will help tailor searches to you as well as allow you to save your searching preferences. If you see your name and picture in the top-right corner, you are successfully signed in. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/c\/c1\/Use-Google-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Use-Google-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/v4-388px-Use-Google-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"388","bigHeight":"291","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Your Google account is the same across all Google products, including Gmail, Drive, Maps, YouTube, and more. Set your search settings. After performing a search, click the Gear icon in the top-right corner of the results page. Select Search Settings from the menu. You can choose to filter explicit results, show instant searches while typing, adjust the number of search results displayed per page, and more. These settings will not be saved when you exit Google unless you are signed in with your Google account. Open Google Maps. Maps can be accessed from the top menu bar on any Google site. By default, Maps should open showing your current location, or a close approximation. Enter a map search. You can search for businesses, landmarks, cities, addresses, map coordinates, and more in the map search. Google will attempt to provide the most relevant results, which will be listed in the left frame. Navigate the map. Use your mouse and keyboard to move around the map. You can zoom in and out of the map by dragging the slider, or by scrolling your mouse wheel up and down. The + and – keys on the keyboard will also some the map. Click and drag the map to move it around, or use the arrow keys to scroll. You can also click the four-directional button in the top corner to scroll around the map. Find out what’s nearby. Right-click on a location of the map and select “What's Here” from the menu. This will place a pin on the map, and nearby listed businesses and locations will appear in the left frame. Click the “Search nearby” link to search for other locations near the pin that you placed. Get directions. Click on any location in the map to pull up its information. From the Information window, click on the Directions link to open the navigation interface. In the left menu, you can designate your starting point, and choose your method of transportation. When you click “Get directions” turn by turn directions will be displayed, and the route will appear on the main map. Estimated travel time, adjusted for current traffic, will be displayed next to each suggested route. You can adjust your route by clicking and dragging on any part of it. The route will be recalculated to go as close to the new point as possible. Alternatively, you can right-click anywhere on the map and select “Directions to here” to open the navigation interface. Listen to music using Google Play Music. Music allows you to upload music files from your computer as well as browse Google's extensive digital music library. Create your Google+ profile. Google+ is Google's social networking service. Use it to create an online presence, follow trends and people, and connect with your friends. Sort out your life with Google Calendar. Use the Calendar to sync all of your important dates across Google's services. You can share your calendars and events with others, and create multiple calendars for different aspects of your life. Use Google Scholar to research papers for school. Google Scholar will provide search results from peer-reviewed journals and articles. You can use these for research papers and presentations. Join some Google Groups. Google Groups are collections of people that share similar interests. Use the Groups to post and read information relevant to you. Read the latest news with Google News. Google News allows you to create a personalized news feed with the latest stories from every major and minor news source.

Log in with your Google account. Browse your emails. View email conversations. Archive old messages. Delete email you don’t need. Star important emails. Use labels to sort your mail. Compose an email. Open Google Drive. Create a new document. Edit your new document. Download the document. Share the document. Upload files from your computer. Create folders to sort your files. Go to the Google homepage and type your search. Sort your search results. Refine your search. Sign in to your Google account. Set your search settings. Open Google Maps. Enter a map search. Navigate the map. Find out what’s nearby. Get directions. Listen to music using Google Play Music. Create your Google+ profile. Sort out your life with Google Calendar. Use Google Scholar to research papers for school. Join some Google Groups. Read the latest news with Google News.

https://www.wikihow.com/Move-on-After-a-Break-Up

How to Move on After a Break Up

While it can be hard to move on after a break up, giving yourself time to recover and cutting ties with your ex will help you get off to a great start. Take some time out to express your feelings, whether they are sadness, confusion, anger, or fear, since you can't move on until you've processed the emotional impact of your break up. It's also important to stop calling, texting, or following your ex on social media, which will give you the space you need to look forward rather than back. Meet up with friends so you can maintain an active social life, which will help you stop thinking about your previous relationship.

Allow yourself to have mixed feelings. Even if the relationship was unhealthy, you need time to grieve. Accept and acknowledge feeling sad, angry, confused, frustrated and relieved. Take some time for self-reflection. Sometimes, people change when they are in relationships. Figure out what you like best about yourself as a single person and focus on making that part shine. Stay physically healthy. You do not want your break up to send you spiraling into bad habits such as drinking, binge eating or obsessive exercise. Take care of yourself by eating healthy food, getting enough sleep and working out when you can, even if that means just taking a walk. Rally your support network. If your break up means you lose some mutual friends, that's okay. Talk to your good friends, family members and others who will stand by you during this difficult time. Talk to a therapist. Some people are better able to identify their feelings and get over the break up fast with the help of a mental health professional. Try not to call, text, message or follow your ex. This will be uncomfortable for the both of you and it will not help you move on after your break up. Make it clear to your ex that you wish to put some distance between the two of you. Sometimes, former partners think they can stay friends. While this might be possible down the road, the weeks and months immediately following your break up are not good times to keep in touch. Discontinue talking or getting together with your ex's family members. If Sunday brunch with your ex-girlfriend's mom was on your schedule permanently, you will have to cancel and fill that time slot with something else. Stop romanticizing the relationship. It is over, so it was not the perfect fairy tale you might be imagining now. Delete him or her from all your social networking contacts. If you really want to move on, you cannot be Facebook friends. Seek the company of old friends. You may have let some relationships fall to the side while you were in love, but those friends have not forgotten you. Go out and have fun with people you like. Discover new interests. Learning something new is a great way to take the sting out of a break up. Take cooking classes, learn a new language, start exploring photography or plant a garden. Consider dating again. People are ready at different times. Some are ready to jump back into the dating pool and others are hesitant. Let everyone know you are ready to date again. This will inspire introductions, blind dates and other potential set-ups. You can also think about online dating. Make new friends if you are not comfortable dating just yet. Friendships can develop into something more romantic down the road.

Allow yourself to have mixed feelings. Take some time for self-reflection. Stay physically healthy. Rally your support network. Talk to a therapist. Try not to call, text, message or follow your ex. Discontinue talking or getting together with your ex's family members. Stop romanticizing the relationship. Delete him or her from all your social networking contacts. Seek the company of old friends. Discover new interests. Consider dating again.

https://www.wikihow.com/Sneeze-Quietly

How to Sneeze Quietly

It can be hard to stop sneezing loudly, but with a little practice, you can muffle the sound. It may sound obvious, but sneezing into something, like a tissue or the crook of your elbow, can make it quieter. You can also cough as you sneeze, which should cover up the sound you make. Another way to sneeze more quietly is to leave your mouth open slightly and clench your teeth and jaw as you sneeze. If you want to stop a sneeze altogether, take a big, deep breath whenever you have the urge, which should stop the reflex. Just be sure you don't plug your nose while you sneeze, since this can be dangerous.

Sneeze into something. Keep a tissue or a thick handkerchief with you at all times. A tissue is portable and disposable, but a handkerchief will do a better job of muffling the sound. If you have no other choice, bury your nose into your shoulder, your arm, or the crook of your elbow. Any fabric or solid body part will help keep your sneeze quiet. Clench your teeth and jaw to suppress the sound. Leave your mouth slightly open so that you don't build up too much pressure in your sinuses. Done correctly, this move should lessen the intensity of your sneeze. If you hold your breath at the same time, you might even be able to stop the sneeze from coming. Cough as you sneeze. Make sure to get the timing just right. By mixing up the reflex to sneeze with the reflex to cough, you might lessen the sound and severity of each noise. Hold your breath. When you feel a sneeze coming on, inhale powerfully through both nostrils, and hold in your breath until the urge has passed. You may be able to counteract the sneeze reflex. Do not plug your nose. Holding your breath can be effective, up to a point, but plugging your nose during a sneeze can have serious health consequences. Among other disturbances of the ear and nasal passages, this can cause larynx fractures, ruptured eardrums, voice changes, bulging eyeballs, and bladder incontinence. Bear in mind that while holding a sneeze back might be effective, it also might leave you feeling somewhat stuffed-up. Use your tongue. Press the tip of your tongue firmly into the roof of your mouth, right behind your top two front teeth. This should hit the spot where the alveolar ridge or "gum palate" reaches up to the roof of your mouth. Push as hard as you can until the urge to sneeze goes away. Done correctly, this can stop a sneeze in its tracks. This strategy is most effective if you do it the moment that you feel a sneeze coming. The longer the sneeze has to build, the harder it will be to stop. Push your nose up. When a sneeze is coming, place your index finger beneath your nose and push up slightly. If you time it right, you might be able to suppress the sneeze. At the very least, this move should lessen the intensity of the sneeze.

Sneeze into something. Clench your teeth and jaw to suppress the sound. Cough as you sneeze. Hold your breath. Use your tongue. Push your nose up.

https://www.wikihow.com/Relieve-Constipation-After-Surgery

How to Relieve Constipation After Surgery

While it's totally normal to experience constipation after you have surgery, there are a few medications and natural products that you can use to relieve your symptoms. For natural relief, try drinking laxative teas and juices such as prune juice, which contain sorbitol, a naturally occurring sugar that acts as a mild laxative. You can also take fiber supplements once or twice a day to make it easier for you to go to the bathroom. For stronger solutions, try using an over-the-counter stool softener or a gentle laxative to help move things along and relieve your constipation. If these aren't enough, use a suppository to relieve serious constipation.

Use a stool softener. One of the first medications to try if you're feeling constipated is a stool softener. These are easy to find over-the-counter and can help get you back on track. The way that stool softeners work is that they draw water into your stool from your intestines. This makes your stool softer and easier to pass. Note that stool softeners do not necessarily give you the urge to go. They only make it easier to go. Take a stool softener one to two times per day or as directed by your surgeon or the directions on the box. If a stool softener does not work, or doesn't provide you the urge to go, you may need to add in an additional medication. Pick up a gentle laxative. To pair with a stool softener, you may want to consider adding in a laxative. These are the medications that will give you the urge to go. There are two main types of laxatives: stimulants and osmotics. Try using an osmotic laxative first. Stimulants can cause diarrhea and stomach cramping. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing in fluid into your intestines and helping to move stool through your colon. Many times, a combination of a stool softener and an osmotic laxative is a great choice when it comes to relieving constipation. Add in a lubricant. A less well known way to relieve post-surgical constipation is by adding in a lubricant. This is another option that you can find easily over-the-counter. Lubricants are similar to stool softeners in the sense that they make it easier for your stool to be passed; however, they work by lubricating your colon instead of drawing fluid into your stool. Oil based products, like mineral or cod oil, are common lubricants. They aren't the best tasting, but do help relieve constipation without stomach cramping or diarrhea. Try a suppository or enema. If more gentle methods of relieving constipation are not working, you may need to change your methods. Using a suppository or enema are other ways to relieve more severe constipation. Suppositories are generally made with glycerin. When inserted, the glycerin is absorbed by your rectal muscles causing them to gently contract. This helps make it easier to go and provides you with the urge to go. Prior to using a suppository, you may want to consider using a stool softener as well. It might be somewhat painful to pass stool that's been compacted for a while. Another option to try is an enema. Although not pleasant, these usually relieve constipation immediately. Check with your surgeon to make sure this is ok, as you should not use them after certain types of operations, particularly on the lower colon and rectum. Purchase an enema over-the-counter and read the instructions thoroughly. Only use an enema once. If no stool is produced, call your physician. Manage your pain medication. There are a variety of medications that you can take to relieve your postoperative constipation; however, there are other medications you should manage to make sure they don't continue to cause constipation. One of the main reasons patients become constipated after surgery is that they're on prescription pain medications. Although these medications are obviously very necessary, they do slow your bowels down. If you've been prescribed prescription pain medications, only take as much as you need and follow your doctor's instructions for use. Assess your pain level every day. If it's decreasing, ease up on your pain medications. The sooner you can cut back or stop pain medications, the quicker your bowels will get back to normal. Also, if you only have minimal pain, ask your physician if you can take a mild, over-the-counter pain medication instead, which is less likely to contribute to the constipation. Always talk to your doctor. Regardless of what medication you want to take, if you're feeling constipated and need medications to assist you, talk to your doctor first. Most of the gentle over-the-counter constipation medications are safe and appropriate to use. However, some medications may interfere with prescriptions provided to you after your surgery or are not safe due to the type of surgery you've had. If you're feeling constipated and are unsure of what you're allowed to take, call your doctor or the physician on call. Ask exactly what you can and cannot take, how often to take it and when to call back. Increase your fluid intake. One very essential way to prevent and treat constipation naturally is by drinking an adequate amount of fluids. The second you're able to drink in the hospital, start sipping on hydrating fluids. In general, people need about eight 8-oz glasses (2 liters) of clear, hydrating fluids each day; however, you may want to aim for more than that to help get your bowels restarted after your surgery. Try fluids like: water, sparkling water, flavored water, decaf coffee and decaf tea. Avoid caffeinated beverages since these can deplete your body of fluids. Also stay away from sodas, fruit juice cocktails, fruit drinks, alcohol and energy drinks. Drink a natural laxative tea. In addition to plain water, there are some teas that are designed to help give you the gentle urge to go. Try including these teas as part of your fluids after surgery. Look at your local pharmacy or a health food store for natural laxative teas. These are not stimulants and just combine herbs and dried tea to help relieve constipation. Since there are a variety of herbs and teas that can help move your bowels, look at the front description. It should say "gentle laxative" or "bowel regulation." This is the type you're looking for. Try to drink these teas plain without adding sugar; however, just a touch of added sweetness from honey won't hurt. Drink a glass or two of these teas daily, but don't overdo it. Many times, it takes a few hours for these herbal remedies to work. Reach for prunes or prune juice. An old school natural remedy for constipation that works well is adding prunes or prune juice to your diet. This is a great first remedy to try when you're feeling constipated. Both prunes and 100% prune juice are great natural laxatives. Prunes have a naturally occurring sugar known as sorbitol which acts like a gentle laxative. Start by drinking about 4 – 8 oz of prune juice once a day. Make sure that you buy 100% prune juice. In addition, if the prune juice is warm, it can help alleviate your constipation a bit quicker. If you want to eat prunes for your constipation relief, buy prunes with no added sugar if you can. Measure out a 1/2 cup of prunes to start with. Add in a fiber supplement. Another natural method to relieving constipation is by adding in a fiber supplement. When combined with an increase in clear fluids, this is a great way to soften your stools and make it easier to go. There are a few different ways that you can add fiber to your diet. The most common are fiber capsules, fiber gummies and fiber powder. All are acceptable as a supplement. Take fiber supplements one to two times a day; however, always read the package instructions. In addition, more is not always better. Too much fiber can cause a lot of cramping, bloating and stomach upset. Always check with your physician about taking additional pills or gummy supplements. They may not be appropriate for you after your surgery. Avoid foods that promote constipation. There are a variety of natural ways to get your bowels going and making your stools soft; however, there are foods that you should avoid or limit immediately after your surgery. Some nutrients in food, like potassium and calcium, can promote constipation or make it worse. If you're eating foods that have high levels of these nutrients or eating them in large quantities, you could worsen constipation. Foods that can worsen constipation include: dairy products (like cheese, milk or yogurt), bananas, white bread, white rice or processed foods. Track your bowel habits. Prior to your surgery, start paying attention to your bowel habits. This will help you figure out if you need to proactively treat constipation or just be prepared to treat it after surgery. Knowing that surgery can cause some constipation, you need to be paying attention to your bowel habits prior to your procedure. Note how often you go. Is it everyday? Is it two times a day or every other day? In addition, start paying attention to whether or not it's easy to go. Even if you're feeling regular, if you have difficulty passing stools, this is still a part of constipation. If you notice that you're having some signs of constipation, treat it before going into surgery. It could worsen after your surgery. Eat a high-fiber diet with lots of fluids. To help keep your bowels moving prior to surgery, make sure you pay attention to your diet and fluid consumption. If you're not eating well prior to surgery, this could set you up for more constipation issues after your surgery. A high-fiber diet is one key aspect to constipation prevention. Knowing you have surgery coming up, focus on meeting your daily fiber recommendations. The highest fiber foods include: legumes (like beans and lentils), 100% whole grains (like oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa or whole wheat bread), fruits and vegetables. Track your fiber content in a food journal or tracking app. Women should aim for 25 grams of fiber daily and men should consume at least 38 grams of fiber per day. Also focus on meeting the minimum fluid guidelines each day. Remember, you should aim for at least 64 oz of clear, hydrating fluids each day. Stay active. In addition to monitoring your diet prior to your surgery, also keep up with your physical activity routine. This is another essential component to constipation prevention. You should start walking around as soon as your doctor gives you the okay after surgery. Being active after surgery not only helps prevent constipation, it can also aid in overall healing. Regular exercise stimulates your colon. In addition, aerobic exercises with light impact (like walking or running) have some force on your colon to help promote regularity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of regular aerobic exercise each week. Go for moderate intensity for the best constipation relief. Try: walking, running/jogging, using the elliptical, hiking, dancing, biking or swimming. Stick to a regular pattern. In general, it's important to try to maintain a regular bowel pattern. Pay attention to your body's signal so that you don't cause constipation. Your body is great at giving you signals when it needs something - like the need to go to the bathroom. If you feel the urge to go, don't delay or push it off. Sometimes, ignoring the urge will make the urge go away. If you continually push it off, you will cause yourself to become constipated. Over time, if you take care of your body and don't ignore it, you'll notice your body will stay consistent. You'll probably end up going to the bathroom around the same time of day every day of the week.

Use a stool softener. Pick up a gentle laxative. Add in a lubricant. Try a suppository or enema. Manage your pain medication. Always talk to your doctor. Increase your fluid intake. Drink a natural laxative tea. Reach for prunes or prune juice. Add in a fiber supplement. Avoid foods that promote constipation. Track your bowel habits. Eat a high-fiber diet with lots of fluids. Stay active. Stick to a regular pattern.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Hidden-Camera

How to Make a Hidden Camera

To make a hidden camera, remove the outer shell of a compact webcam and hide the cam in a stationary object in the area where you want to record. If you aren't able to use a wireless webcam, make sure that the webcam's USB cord is hidden and plugged into your computer. You can also download a free webcam app onto your smartphone and link the phone to your computer. You can then watch the footage remotely on your PC using a video player with stream compatibility.

Obtain a cheap webcam. You should be able to find a suitable model for less than $10. Run a web search for "cheap webcam". Pick a basic, compact webcam. The camera must be small enough to escape detection. You may choose to hide it inside a household object like a pencil sharpener or a tissue box; bear this in mind as you're choosing a camera. If you want to set up the camera as soon as possible, you should be able to find a webcam at a large electronics store (BestBuy, Circuit City, etc.) Ask for their cheapest, smallest model. If you're trying to capture a serious crime, consider installing a professional-grade security camera. Homemade hidden cameras are fun, and they will work in a pinch--but the video quality will be much higher on a more expensive setup. Remove the outer shell of the webcam. You should be able to see the circuit board upon which the lens is mounted. This will make the camera considerably smaller, and thus much easier to hide. Pick your hiding spot. Get creative! Your camera will not be so easily spotted if you hide it inside a nondescript household object. Make sure to use something that you would usually keep in your room or office; an out-of-place object may arouse suspicion. For example: Find an old electric pencil sharpener that no-one is using. You can take out the insides and point the camera out of the pencil-sharpening hole. Unscrew the shell and remove the motor, the wires, and the power cord from the inside. Make sure that the sharpener is unplugged! Try using a cardboard shoe-box or tissue box. Cut a small hole in the side of the box so that the camera can "see" out. Make sure that the hole isn't too big: you don't want anyone to get suspicious! Consider using a shopping bag or gift bag. Again, cut a small hole in the side of the bag. The hole will be harder to spot if the outside of the bag is textured or patterned. A black or dark-colored bag will make the hole even harder to notice. Consider hiding the camera in the leaves of a potted plant or deep in the recesses of a bookshelf--anywhere that someone will be unlikely to look closely. Make sure that the camera lens is pointing where you need it to point. Mount the camera inside the object. Point the lens facing out of the hole in the object. Make sure that the camera fits, and that it doesn't look obvious. If you think that the object will be moved around at all, consider using superglue to hold the camera in place. Glue the outer rim of the camera lens such that it's facing out of the hole. Be careful to keep glue away from the lens glass--this will blur the video quality, and it is very difficult to remove. Tape or glue fishing weights inside the shell to keep the object from seeming unusually light. This is most important when hiding a camera inside machines--pencil sharpeners, clocks, and the like--that usually feel heavy. If you don't have fishing weights, any heavy, flat piece of metal should do the trick. Be careful when handling jagged metal. Thread the USB cord (the cable that connects the webcam to the computer) through the back of the hiding spot. You may need to place the hidden camera near your computer if the cable isn't very long. Cover the USB cord with something. Loose papers or a jacket will do--but make it look natural. If a "pencil sharpener" is obviously connected to your computer, the snooper may become suspicious. If you hide your camera inside an appliance, consider taping up an "Out of Order" sign so that no-one tries to use it. If someone tries to turn it on, they might find your camera. Keep in mind, however, that an "Out of Order" sign may call attention to the object. People may be more likely to ignore the "appliance" if you don't label it--especially if you place it out of the way. Point your camera toward the scene of the crime. Think of yourself as a film director setting up a scene: think about what you are trying to prove with the footage, and think about how important it is that you can see the culprit's face. If you just want someone to stay out of your space--say, a sibling sneaking into your room--point the camera toward the door so that you can catch them coming in. If you are trying to stop someone from messing with a specific thing--say, you want to keep a sibling from taking your clothes, or a coworker from stealing your stapler--point the camera toward that thing so that you can see what they do. If you want to capture several different crimes, set the camera back far enough that the lens catches a wide swath of the room. Consider setting up two cameras, though be sure to vary your hiding spots. Acquire a smartphone. Any old Android, iPhone, or internet-capable iPod should do the trick--anything that can run an app and access the internet. Bear in mind that the phone itself will be taking the footage. Thus, you won't be able to use the phone for anything else while you're filming. It's best to use a phone that you don't need on a regular basis; you may be able to acquire a used phone from a friend or from a used-phone retailer. Make sure that you have an AC power charger for the phone. It will be very energy-intensive to record a constant video stream, and you'll need to keep the phone charging. Install a free webcam app. You should be able to find a suitable program from your phone using the App Store or the Google Play Store. Search for "webcam app". Look for apps like IP Webcam, MobileWebCam, DroidCam, or iCam. Read reviews before you download any app, and make sure that you're downloading something safe. Many of these apps are free, and the developers make their money from ads. Don't worry about paying for a more expensive app; a free program should be sufficient. You will need to give the webcam app full control of your phone's camera, meaning that no other app can use the camera while the webcam app is running. This will not harm your phone or its camera. Note the URL for your webcam app. You will need this to link the phone to your computer. Connect the phone to your PC. Make sure that the two devices are connected to the same wireless network. You will be able to remotely watch and record the feed. Use any video player with stream compatibility, such as VLC or Windows Media Player. If you are using VLC, click "Open Network Stream" on the "Media" menu, and enter the URL that shows up on the phone's webcam app. Once you enter this URL, you should be given the option to connect to the phone's camera. Free programs like VLC and Windows Media Player are great for watching a webcam stream through your computer, but you won't be able to record high-quality footage. If you're really serious about surveillance, consider looking into pricier webcam studio software. Set up the camera. The phone will need to sit next to a charger, so plan accordingly. Point the phone-camera lens toward the area that you want to film, and place the phone such that it won't fall flat. Leaning the phone casually against a wall or a stack of books may suffice, especially if the phone is laying on its lengthwise side. Consider hiding the phone inside of a household object. See the "Hiding a Webcam Inside a Household Object" section. Turn off the sound and the vibrate feature on the phone, especially if the phone is enabled to take calls and texts. A loud ringtone at the wrong moment could ruin your entire plan. Secure your network. Consider setting a secure, password-protected wireless network. If you set this up on an unprotected or public network, anyone who can pick up the network will be able to see your footage. Ask your internet service provider about secure network options. If you are paying for wireless internet, you should be able to set up a password from your router. Watch the stream from your computer. If you need to leave the house, you can connect to a public wifi network at a coffee shop, a restaurant, or a library. Be aware of the law. In the U.S., it is generally legal to use a hidden camera to record footage without a person's consent--provided that you are filming in public or within your own home. Many states have passed laws against filming people in spaces where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as bathrooms or personal bedrooms. It is generally legal to use a hidden camera in the workplace, as long your filming pertains to a business concern. Don't film someone at work without their consent in order to settle a personal dispute--unless you're ready to risk legal consequences. Laws vary between states and countries. Research the laws for your area before you record audio or video of anyone without their express consent. If you are planning to distribute the footage, sell the footage, or use it in court, then it is extremely important that you follow the law. If you are only planning to use the footage for personal entertainment purposes, you may not need to worry so much. Download a webcam recording program. Run a web search for "free webcam recording program" and install the software onto your computer. You may be able to use Windows Movie Maker or iVideo, if these are already installed on your computer. Search the Start menu (bottom left-hand corner of the Windows desktop) to figure out whether you have a program installed. Hook the USB cord up to your computer. When you leave the room, or when you are ready to start recording, boot up the recording software and click "Record". Cover up the USB cord with something so that it isn't obviously running to the hidden camera. Books, papers, or a jacket will do--anything that looks natural. If you already own a webcam, consider simply using your existing camera to take the footage. Be subtle; only do this if you typically keep a webcam next to your computer. Keep in mind that while this may be a more straightforward approach, the snooper may be more suspicious if they notice a camera point at them--even if they don't think that it's turned on. Be sure to turn off, cover, or disable the LED light that shows that your webcam is running. The "recording" light may tip off a snooper that they are being filmed. Make sure to turn off or darken your screen. If the screen is open and the snooper can see the webcam feed, they will know that they are being recorded. You have to be sneaky to catch a sneak. If you own a desktop computer, you should be able to turn off the monitor and leave the computer tower running. If you own a laptop, you may be able to put the screen to sleep while the recording program runs. You may also consider folding the screen down until the laptop is almost--but not quite--closed. The computer will look like it's off, but it will still be running. Keep recording until you get the footage you need. Leave the camera running when you think that it will capture what it needs to capture. If you're not sure, leave it on as often as possible. If time goes on and you don't capture anything incriminating, reconsider the situation. Was the snooping a one-time thing? Has the snooper found a way to sneak around your camera? Use a video editing program to isolate the clip of the crime. Your computer may be pre-installed with a default program (Windows Movie Maker or iVideo); if not, you should be able to download free video editing software from the Internet. Make sure that the clip shows exactly what you need to prove your point. Whether you caught a sibling stealing from your room or a coworker stealing from your cubicle: the clip should start a few seconds before the crime and end a few seconds afterward. Save the relevant footage in a new video file, but do not delete the extra footage just yet. Sometimes evidence appears where we least expect it. You may find something interesting when you review the extra footage. Save an extra copy of the footage in a separate folder. If you plan to use this video to make any sort of legal or professional case, it is important to protect your evidence. Consider emailing yourself a copy of the file. Even if someone goes to drastic measures to find and delete the footage from your computer, you will have a remote copy that you can download onto any computer with an internet connection. For the same reason: consider saving the footage onto a USB flash drive. Keep the drive in a safe place. Confront the snooper. Be tactful. Tell them that you know that they were sneaking around in your things, and ask them them not to do so again. You do not need to bring up the hidden camera immediately. It may come in handy later on, if they continue to sneak around after you've asked them to stop. If they own up to their snooping ways when you confront them, then you don't need to show them the evidence. If the snooper knows that you've hidden a camera somewhere, and knows where you've hidden it, they may find a way to sneak around it. Don't reveal your trump card right away. Forgive, but don't forget. Some people don't learn the first time they're caught. Be aware that depending on who you're dealing with, merely catching the snooper in the act once may not stop them from snooping in the future. Consider leaving the camera running when you suspect that the snooper might strike again. It never hurts to be sure. If the problem continues, tell an authority figure. If you're dealing with a sneaky sibling, tell your parents. If you're dealing with a sneaky coworker, consider notifying your supervisor. If the snooping is of a criminal nature, consider contacting the police.

Obtain a cheap webcam. Remove the outer shell of the webcam. Pick your hiding spot. Mount the camera inside the object. Tape or glue fishing weights inside the shell to keep the object from seeming unusually light. Thread the USB cord (the cable that connects the webcam to the computer) through the back of the hiding spot. If you hide your camera inside an appliance, consider taping up an "Out of Order" sign so that no-one tries to use it. Point your camera toward the scene of the crime. Acquire a smartphone. Install a free webcam app. Note the URL for your webcam app. Connect the phone to your PC. Set up the camera. Secure your network. Watch the stream from your computer. Be aware of the law. Download a webcam recording program. Hook the USB cord up to your computer. If you already own a webcam, consider simply using your existing camera to take the footage. Make sure to turn off or darken your screen. Keep recording until you get the footage you need. Use a video editing program to isolate the clip of the crime. Save an extra copy of the footage in a separate folder. Confront the snooper. Forgive, but don't forget.

https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-up-With-Fashion-Trends

How to Keep up With Fashion Trends

Dressing fashionably is a great way to express yourself, and you can keep up with fashion trends by browsing social media and reading fashion publications. One of the best ways to keep up with trends is to watch runway shows. You can see footage from these on Style.com and Nowfashion.com. You might also look at websites like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar to find articles about what's trending. Even if you don't see yourself wearing some of these high-end clothes, if you pay attention to the shapes and colors you may be able to spot similar styles the next time you go shopping. You might also try searching the hashtag “fashion” to find inspiration on Instagram or Twitter.

Watch the runway. Fashion brands and designers have shows twice a year at designated “fashion weeks” in various cities around the world. While it is difficult to gain access to these events, there are many resources available online that recap the shows with photos, videos, and written reviews. Style.com and nowfashion.com are two reliable places to see recent video footage and photographs from runway shows. You can also watch archived shows from past years to get an understanding of how trends have changed. Notice what shapes and colors the designers are using. Even if you can't see yourself wearing some of these clothes, you may see more wearable versions of these on the streets in months to come. By going to the source, you will be ahead of the trends when they reach the general public. Read fashion publications. Even without a subscription, many prominent fashion publications have free and accessible content. These websites are tailor-made for regular people trying to keep up with trends. Magazines like Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Women's Wear Daily have many online articles about current fashion trends and how to wear them. Fashion bloggers are regular people with an interest in fashion. They have free websites devoted to new trends and brands to watch out for. Follow social media. Many bloggers, models and designers use Twitter and Instagram to share information about their favorite trends and sources of inspiration. Explore the #fashion hashtag on Instagram and find the accounts that get you most inspired and excited about new trends. Follow celebrities and designers whose style you most admire. Even if you don't have access to a smartphone, you can access these social media accounts through the Internet. Go window shopping. One way to stay informed about fashion trends is by paying attention to what merchandise stores are selling. Watch what the mannequins are wearing. Retailers translate more inaccessible styles from high-end designers into wearable every day clothes. Being informed about what stores are selling can give you a sense of what's “in.” Change your shopping habits. It may be helpful to shop more frequently and buy fewer things at once. This will allow you to be aware of trends and make sure you are only buying things you love.. Don't feel pressure to buy something every time you go shopping. Make an informed purchase by taking time to look around and by doing research online. Force yourself to explore new stores. You may not think a certain brand is your style, but it will help broaden your fashion education! When you find an item you like, think about of two other items in your wardrobe that you can pair it with. That way, you will have a wardrobe full of clothes that you actually wear. Explore online shopping. You can explore fashion trends without braving a busy mall. Online retailers allow you to explore new merchandise quickly and easily. Sign up for emails from your favorite stores. Many brands send out email blasts when they have new inventory and styles. Downsize your closet. Having a smaller closet means more room for seasonal and trending items. Throw away old styles. Make space for new items by throwing away the clothes you don't wear. Be honest. If you haven't worn something in a year, you could probably get rid of it. Throw away items that do not fit you anymore. We all have sentimental pieces of clothing. However, clothing clutter will only keep you from expanding your style. Keep the basics. Keep a small collection of your favorite basic items, such as well-fitting jeans and t-shirts. These items are timeless. You can pair them with trendier items you buy. Small items, like jackets and shoes are a good way to spruce up your basics. Create a new organizing system. Make sure you are keeping track of everything you own. This will force you to be honest about what you are actually wearing. It will also help as you continue to refresh your wardrobe. Embrace accessories. Using accessories to spruce up a well-fitting base wardrobe is a great way to stay both on trend and on budget. Save on basics. Trendier items can be more expensive. Make sure you are budgeting accordingly. Look for bargains on t-shirts and jeans so that you can splurge on the occasional trendy dress or pair of shoes. Explore thrift stores. Trends tend to reemerge over time. Consignment shops and thrift stores are great places to find extremely affordable clothing in older styles. This is a way to enliven your wardrobe when an older style comes back into fashion. Set limits. While it is easy to get wrapped up in keeping up with fashion trends, set a monthly monetary limit so you do not spend more than you are able to on clothes. Remember that fashion trends change so quickly that it is impossible to keep up completely. Buying a few items a month will keep your wardrobe lively without exhausting your wallet.

Watch the runway. Read fashion publications. Follow social media. Go window shopping. Change your shopping habits. Explore online shopping. Downsize your closet. Keep the basics. Create a new organizing system. Embrace accessories. Save on basics. Explore thrift stores. Set limits.

https://www.wikihow.com/Solder

How to Solder

If you want to solder something, you'll need some solder, which is a soft metal that is easy to melt and cools quickly. You'll also need either a soldering iron or a torch to heat the solder so that it can adhere to the surface that you're working on. Safety is important while soldering, so be sure to wear safety gear and work in a well-lit and ventilated area. Now that you're prepared, you can use solder to repair electronics, plumbing pipes, and other metal fixtures.

Learn what soldering is. Put into basic terms, soldering is the process of melting a metal onto other metal components in order to bind them. Soldering differs from welding. In welding, the component pieces are melted together; in soldering, a softer metal with a lower melting point is used to connect them. Because soldering doesn't melt components, it's useful for more delicate applications, such as electronics work, or plumbing. The purpose of soldering is to bind two other components. Solder can be thought of as a sort of “metal glue.” It can be used to fill in gaps or hold pieces in place, but doesn't serve any more complicated purpose. Since solder is metallic, it conducts electricity, which is another reason it's so popular for connecting electronic components. Use solder to bind things. Solder is the name of the actual material used in soldering. Historically, many solders contained lead or cadmium, but that has been recently phased out for health reasons. Solder is typically composed of two or more metals combined into an alloy. Silver, antimony, copper, tin, and zinc are all common ingredients. Solder is soft and flexible. It generally comes in a coil, or spool, that can be stretched and bent. Solder has a low melting point, and cools extremely quickly after it's been melted. (350F - 500F) Solder can contain a flux core of natural rosin (tree sap) or a chemical acid. The metal of the solder encircles the core, like a tube. The purpose of the core is to serve as a flux, or purifying agent. The flux prevents oxidation in the solder as it cools, keeping it strong and pure. Use a soldering iron to heat the solder. Soldering irons come in various configurations, but are essentially straight tools with tips that can be heated to melt solder in place. Most soldering irons typically heat to between 800 and 900 degrees Fahrenheit, so exercise caution when using one. Soldering irons tend to catch a veneer of solder after each use, which can oxidize and reduce the iron's effectiveness on the next use. To clean this off easily, secure a wet sponge before you turn your iron on, and gently drag the tip across the sponge once the iron is heated. A layer of fresh solder on the tip can actually make a soldering iron more effective. This process is called “tinning,” and is done by allowing a bit of fresh solder to melt evenly over the tip before use. Better models of soldering iron come with a heat control that can be adjusted for different projects and types of solder. Use other equipment to assist in soldering. Soldering isn't especially dangerous or difficult if you take sensible precautions. To solder as efficiently and effectively as possible, there are a few useful pieces of equipment you should have. Clamps or alligator clips, for holding components in place while you solder them Thick gloves, to protect your hands from the tip of the iron as you feed solder to it Safety glasses or goggles, to prevent any errant solder flecks from hitting your eyes A solder stand to rest your soldering iron on between applications. Turn on the lights. Be sure you can see everything clearly so that your work will be as accurate as possible. If you need to solder somewhere without much light, bring a bright light (such as a portable lamp) with you. Prepare adequate ventilation. Even without lead in the mix, solder and flux can produce harmful fumes. Avoid breathing in rosin or metal fumes by opening a window, turning on a fan, and generally doing whatever you can to keep air fresh. Don't solder for too long in one sitting. Soldering is a fast process, and it doesn't generally take more than a few minutes to do what needs to be done, but if you find yourself spending more than 15 or 20 minutes on a project, take regular breaks for fresh air. Pick your iron. Most electronic component soldering is done to fasten components to a PCB (printed circuit board). Therefore, an iron with a smaller tip is recommended. Consider a small flathead tip for ordinary work, or a conical point tip for fine detail soldering. Soldering irons don't have exchangeable tips, so you'll need to buy the one(s) you want. Fortunately, they start at around $15 in price, and a good quality iron can be had for around twice that. A typical soldering iron for electronics work will be a 40-watt iron that has a temperature (or a temperature setting) of 900 degrees. This allows the iron to easily melt electronics solder without damaging the small wires of the components themselves. Pick your solder. Both solid wire and Rosin-cored solders area available at stores and online. Be sure the solder you choose will bond to the materials you are trying to solder. Using solid wire solder may require a separate flux to break the oxide coating and allow the solder to bond. 60/40 tin and lead solder used to be the standard for electronics soldering, however due to the toxicity of lead it has fallen out of favor. Tin and silver solder is generally preferred today. The silver raises the melting point slightly to 430F, raises the price, but helps the solder to bind more smoothly. The numbers in solder descriptions are percentages of the element in the solder alloy. (60Sn/40Pb = 60% tin and 40% lead) Prepare the iron. Plug in the iron and let it warm up on its stand for a few minutes. Be sure to gently wipe it across a sponge if it's been used previously, as described above. Tin it (as described above) once it's clean. When you're ready, set out your components, clips, and solder. Set a piece in place. Put a component in the spot you want to solder it. If soldering to a PCB, be sure the wires of the component are appropriately placed through its pinholes. For most components, use a small clip or clamp to hold them in place once you've set them. Pick up the solder wire. Hold a length of solder with your non-dominant hand. Use a long length to ensure that you'll be able to keep your hand well away from the tip of the iron. Heat the component. Touch the tip of the iron to the component you want to solder. Only touch it for about one second. This warms the metal so that it can handle the solder more flexibly. Quickly touch your solder wire to the soldering point, and apply the iron to it. The solder should melt immediately. Soldering to a PCB board should never require more than about 3-4 seconds' worth of molten solder. If more solder is required to secure the connection, feed it smoothly with your hand. Your solder should pool loosely, forming concave sides as it spreads around the component wire. It shouldn't ball up or look lumpy. Finish the solder. Pull the solder wire away first, wait one second, and then pull the iron away from the soldering point to let the molten solder cool. Again, this should only take 5 or 10 seconds at most. Be sure not to blow on the solder or otherwise try to help it cool. This can make it lumpy or add impurities. Repeat until finished. Repeat the above steps for each point you wish to solder. Re-tin your iron's tip every several applications, and once more before you put the iron away. This helps extend the life of the iron. Be prepared. Soldering copper pipes isn't hard, but it is considerably more involved than soldering electronics, and requires different equipment. People typically engage in pipe soldering to seal joints between sections of pipe, such as elbow turns. Use a torch. Instead of a soldering iron, a propane torch is generally recommended for soldering copper pipes together. These are widely available at hardware stores. Specialized soldering irons can be used for pipe soldering, but a propane torch is just as effective for most jobs, and much cheaper. Get appropriate solder. Manufacturers offer specialized solder wire for soldering pipes. It tends to be much thicker, usually 1/8" in diameter. Pipe solders often contain an acid flux, however solid wire works as well. Solid wire solder may need a separate flux. Absolutely avoid using leaded solder for soldering your pipes. Be sure to closely read the label to determine the alloy composition. Pipe solders tend to compose mostly tin and may also contain antimony, copper, and/or silver. Have an abrasive item on hand. To be sure your solder takes, it's helpful to clean the pipe beforehand by scouring it with an emery cloth, sandpaper, or fine steel wool. Cut off the water. Turn off the water to your plumbing before you begin work. This will allow you to work with your pipes without fear of flooding or spraying the room. Before you turn the water off, pour a bucket of water. Keep the bucket nearby in case your torch catches anything on fire. Cut your pipe. If you're installing new piping, use a tube cutter to cut any pipe up to an inch in diameter. Tube cutters are available at hardware stores. Take it slowly. A tube cutter works best with slow, steady movement. Go too quickly and you might dent the pipe. For larger pipe, you'll have to use a hacksaw. File off the ragged edges afterward. Once the pipes are cut, fit them into whatever joints you'll need to solder tight. Clean up the pipe. Using an emery cloth or similar abrasive item, thoroughly abrade the area of pipe where you'll be applying solder to smooth and clean it. A smooth and clean surface will allow the solder to flow into the joint smoothly and seal it evenly. Solder the pipe. Fire up your propane torch and apply heat to the pipe you plan to solder. Maintain even heat by moving the flame all around the work area. Once the pipe is good and hot, apply the tip of your solder wire to the place you need to seal. It should melt right away. Hold the solder on the opposite side of the pipe from your torch. It should flow around the joint and fill it up all the way around. Let the joint cool. It will cool quickly. Move on to the next joint that needs sealing, if necessary. Check your work. Once you're finished, wait a few minutes and then turn the water back on. Run water through the pipes you soldered and check for leaks. If there are any, you'll have to repeat the process.

Learn what soldering is. Use solder to bind things. Use a soldering iron to heat the solder. Use other equipment to assist in soldering. Turn on the lights. Prepare adequate ventilation. Don't solder for too long in one sitting. Pick your iron. Pick your solder. Prepare the iron. Set a piece in place. Pick up the solder wire. Heat the component. Finish the solder. Repeat until finished. Be prepared. Use a torch. Get appropriate solder. Have an abrasive item on hand. Cut off the water. Cut your pipe. Clean up the pipe. Solder the pipe. Check your work.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Good-Man

How to Get a Good Man

If you want to get a good man, start by joining a local social club, enrolling in a community college course, or volunteering for a charity or festival so you can meet men with similar interests. You can also try joining lifestyle or faith-based dating apps to meet single men in your area. You may want to avoid general dating apps like Tinder to find truly solid matches, though! Before you start going on dates, take some time to prioritize what you need and want in a man. That way, you can narrow your focus and recognize men that fit your ideal when you meet them! After you meet someone and really click with him, remember to maintain your independence to establish a healthy relationship.

Join a social club that reflects your interests. Being part of a club is great because you get to meet people and slowly get to know them. Search online for clubs in your area or visit local shops that are related to your interests to see if they have postings about local organizations. Then, join 1 or more clubs to meet more guys. For example, you might join your local chapter of the Sierra Club if you enjoy outdoor activities. Similarly, you could visit a comic book store to find a group that discusses comics or a club that plays board games. Meetup.com and Facebook groups might also help you find a local club. Sign up for a class at a community college or local organization. Taking a class is great for two reasons. First, you'll likely meet some men. Second, it'll also help you become a more fun, well-rounded person. Check the websites for your local community college, library, and educational organizations to find classes that interest you. Then, enroll in a class that you think will also appeal to men. You should be able to find classes on topics like art, cooking, and writing at local nonprofits or stores that sell materials for these activities. Ask your librarian if they have any upcoming classes if you can't find the information online. Many community colleges offer continuing education classes that aren't part of a degree program. Volunteer for a charity, nonprofit, or festival. Doing volunteer work is also a great way to meet guys, and you'll be helping your community. Pick a cause that's important to you or choose volunteer work that's fun for you. Then, look for a local organization that needs your help. Here are some suggestions: Work in a local soup kitchen. Collect books for underprivileged children. Bathe and walk dogs at a local animal shelter. Become a docent at a local museum. Volunteer for a local film festival. Attend local events and festivals to meet more guys. Check local news sites, Facebook events, and social media pages for local organizations to find events or festivals in your area. This might include things like art openings, live concerts, parades, and farmers markets. Then, go to the ones that pique your interest. While you're there, say “hi” to people you meet and try to turn small-talk into a conversation. You can also find events on sites like Meetup.com. When you pass a guy who interests you, say something about the event or the weather to try to start a conversation. You might say, “I'm glad the weather is so nice today,” “Have you seen this band before?” or “Do you know if any of the booths are selling zucchini today?” Participate in social events at your religious or spiritual organization. If you're religious or spiritual, your house of worship or meeting space is an excellent place to meet a man. In addition to attending services, go to evening and weekend social events so you can meet more people. Talk to the guys you meet to get to know them and find out if they're single. When you're talking to a guy you like, find out if he's single by asking a casual question about his relationship status. You might say, “Did your wife come with you?” or “I'm glad this is on a Friday because I needed a break from dating. Isn't it so hard?” Join a dating app to easily find single people in your area. Using a dating app allows you to narrow your focus to people who are looking for a relationship. Pick a dating app or website that you feel comfortable using. Then, create a profile that shows off your best attributes. When you find potential matches, get to know them to find out if they might be the right guy for you. Some dating apps might not be the best place to meet good men. Using lifestyle or faith-based apps may help you find better matches than an app like Tinder. Don't respond to messages that are rude or aren't respectful of you. If you like a guy, go ahead and message him first. Express yourself through your style choices. Instead of trying to impress a guy, dress to impress yourself. Pick clothes that fit you well, make you feel great, and show off a bit of your personality. Additionally, style your hair in a way that flatters your face and works with your hair texture. If you wear makeup, use it to enhance your natural beauty. For example, you might wear a fun dinosaur print to show off your quirky side or you may choose a sleek pencil skirt and cardigan if you think of yourself as studious. If you like how you look, you'll naturally be more confident, which will catch a guy's attention. Additionally, you'll have more success in relationships if you meet a guy who likes you for yourself. Be authentic so people get to know the real you. Opening yourself up to others can be really hard because it hurts to feel rejected. However, being yourself is the only way to find a good partner. Show off your personality from day one, and be honest about what you like and what you dislike. This will help you find a guy that's a great fit for you. For example, you don't need to act like you're extroverted if you're happier being a homebody. Similarly, you don't need to act meek and quiet if you normally have a big personality. You're amazing the way you are, so don't hide. Also, don't pretend to like things because you think a guy will. Pursue personal or career goals that are important to you. Having goals is important because it helps you be fulfilled and happy. Additionally, men will be more attracted to you because you'll be a more dynamic person. Set 1 or 2 goals for yourself, then break them down into actionable steps. Then, begin working on the steps so you can reach your goals. For example, you could set a goal to get a degree or get a promotion at work. Similarly, you might set a personal goal to save up for a house, write a book, or get a painting in an art show. Spend your free time doing hobbies or enjoying social events. Hobbies and social events help you be happy and interesting, so guys will be more attracted to you. Additionally, this helps you enjoy life more overall, so you'll be less worried about your relationship status. Pick 1 or more hobbies that you enjoy, then dedicate time to your hobby several days a week. Also, join your friends and family for social outings or invite them over to your home. When you have free time, spend it doing something fun. For instance, instead of spending Saturday night alone, go bowling with friends or invite people over for a game night. Decide what you bring to a relationship. All relationships are give and take, so you'll likely find a better partner if you're giving equally to a relationship. Consider what you will do for your partner, how you'll spend your time in a relationship, and what previous partners liked most about you. Then, be open about this with the guys you pursue. If you have a dating profile, include this information on your profile. You might say, “I plan fun, creative dates, I'm patient, I'm open about what I want, and I'm great at making breakfast.” Be honest about your flaws because everyone has them. It's totally normal to worry about your flaws, but everyone has some kind of shortcoming. Recognizing yours can help you be more honest in relationships, which helps you meet a better guy. Think about the problems in your prior relationships, as well as what you normally try to hide from people. Then, be open with the men you meet about your perceived flaws. For instance, you might not like that you have a scar on your thigh and you may feel like you get too clingy sometimes. Knowing that you feel this way can help you make better choices as you get to know a guy. You might tell him about the scar early to see how he reacts, and you could make a conscious effort to be less clingy and apologize when you catch yourself doing it. Focus on having fun instead of finding a life partner. While your ultimate dating goal might be to find the perfect guy for you, you'll be more successful if you just try to have fun. Pick dates that you'll enjoy, then spend the time making a connection with the guy. Take your time to get to know him so that the relationship can develop into something meaningful. For instance, play mini golf, go bowling, attend a concert, have a picnic, go rock climbing, or tour a local museum. Prioritize what you need and want in a man. Knowing what you want in a partner helps you narrow your focus to guys that fit the bill. Make a list of what you absolutely need in a partner, then write a separate list of wants that would be nice to have. Next, prioritize both lists so you know what's non-negotiable and what you're willing to compromise. For example, you might need a guy that's caring, honest, and open-minded. Additionally, you might want him to have a job he enjoys, to like cats, and to enjoy hiking. Ask a guy out if you’re interested in him. You might be nervous to make the first move, but it can help you get a great guy. If you're interested in someone, invite him to do something fun that you'll both enjoy, like watching a local band play. Alternatively, ask him to join you for coffee. Say, “Do you want to check out this show with me on Friday?” or “I'm headed over to Good Beans for a cup of coffee. Wanna join me?” Give a man your complete attention while you’re on a date. Put your phone away so you can be in the moment with your guy. Listen to what he has to say and show interest in what he's talking about. This will show him that you really care about him and want to get to know him. Expect him to do the same for you. If he's on his phone, let him know it bothers you. Say, “Are you okay with putting our phones away during our date?” If he continues to use his phone, he might not be the right guy for you. Get to know a guy before you dismiss him as a potential partner. People are usually nervous when they're first meeting people, and it's hard to get to know someone quickly. Because of that, it's important to spend time with a guy before you make conclusions about him. If you think a guy might be a good match, go on several dates with him to see if something is there. If you meet a guy and just aren't into him, it's okay to call it quits. However, don't give up on a guy that checks a lot of your boxes but doesn't spark an instant connection. Avoid judging new partners based on what your exes did. You've probably had your heartbroken a few times, and it's great to take lessons from those experiences. However, try not to jump to conclusions with your new guy. Give them the benefit of the doubt until you see evidence that he's doing something wrong. For example, let's say your ex said he was working late when he was really cheating. If your new beau says he's working late, don't automatically assume he's cheating. He probably just has to work late. Maintain mutual independence after you begin a relationship. In a healthy relationship, both partners are able to maintain their independence. This means that both of you should have space to pursue your interests, spend time with family, and maintain your friendships. Don't give up your independent activities, and don't expect your man to either. It's great to share a lot of interests with your guy. Just don't feel like the two of you have to spend every moment together. For instance, it's a great idea for you to have a night out with your friends while he goes out with his. Reconsider the relationship if he doesn’t respect your boundaries. Once you've shared your expectations with him, he should respect your wishes. If he doesn't, it's a sign that he doesn't really respect you. Talk to him about how you feel, and break things off if he continues to ignore your boundaries. For example, let's say you asked him not to call you while you were out celebrating your friend's birthday, but he called 8 times and left 2 messages. He ignored your boundaries, and that's not okay. Similarly, let's say you have a child and you don't want to introduce them to a man until you're serious with him. If your new beau shows up to your house unexpectedly to give your child a toy and say hello before you're ready, he's not respecting your boundaries. Put the relationship on pause if he’s not fully open with you. While it's unlikely that a man is going to tell you everything about his life when you first start dating, you should feel like you're getting to know him. Additionally, he should freely share the most important information in his life. If you feel like he's not giving you full answers or may be hiding something, it may be best to put things on pause. Tell him that you expect him to be fully open if you're going to be together. He may give you vague or short responses when you ask him about his life. You might say, “Do you see marriage in your future?” If he responds with, “The future is bright” or “Who even knows if there will be a future,” it's a sign that he's not being open with you. Take a step back if he talks down to you. You deserve to be in a relationship with a man that respects and cares for you. A good man won't put you down, try to prove you wrong, or damage your self-esteem. If you're dating a guy who makes you feel bad about yourself, consider breaking things off so you can find someone better. For example, if he says things like, “You can't do anything right” or “You sound crazy right now,” he's being verbally abusive. It's best to end it with him. Break things off if he tries to control what you do and who you see. You don't give up your independence or autonomy when you get into a relationship. Your man doesn't have the right to tell you what you can and can't do. This includes what you wear, who you spend time with, and when you come and go. If he's trying to control you, break up with him immediately because it'll only get worse. While it might seem small, things like suggesting what you should wear or asking why you wear makeup can be an early sign of control issues. You have the right to do whatever you want, so don't waste your time on a guy who's going to boss you around.

Join a social club that reflects your interests. Sign up for a class at a community college or local organization. Volunteer for a charity, nonprofit, or festival. Attend local events and festivals to meet more guys. Participate in social events at your religious or spiritual organization. Join a dating app to easily find single people in your area. Express yourself through your style choices. Be authentic so people get to know the real you. Pursue personal or career goals that are important to you. Spend your free time doing hobbies or enjoying social events. Decide what you bring to a relationship. Be honest about your flaws because everyone has them. Focus on having fun instead of finding a life partner. Prioritize what you need and want in a man. Ask a guy out if you’re interested in him. Give a man your complete attention while you’re on a date. Get to know a guy before you dismiss him as a potential partner. Avoid judging new partners based on what your exes did. Maintain mutual independence after you begin a relationship. Reconsider the relationship if he doesn’t respect your boundaries. Put the relationship on pause if he’s not fully open with you. Take a step back if he talks down to you. Break things off if he tries to control what you do and who you see.

https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-Pearls

How to Buy Pearls

To buy pearls, look for pearls with a lot of luster, since they'll be more valuable. You should also try to examine the pearls against a white background, which will make it easier to see their color. When you're choosing a strand of pearls, try to pick one with similar sized pearls so they compliment each other. Additionally, remember that pearls are not usually completely round. However, you should check the surface of each pearl for blemishes before purchasing them.

Choose a growth style. Cultured pearls grow through a process in which a small piece of sediment – a grain of sand or a bit of shell – is deposited inside of an oyster. The oyster then coats the deposit with a glossy secretion called nacre. Over time, the nacre builds layers to form a pearl. Originally, pearls could be found in abundance in oysters throughout the oceans, but now they can be grown in laboratories. Therefore, there are two types of pearl growth: natural and cultured. Natural pearls are rare and expensive. They look the same as cultured pearls, the only difference is that they were grown cultivated in a wild oyster. Cultured pearls are made by implanting a piece of sand in an oyster and waiting for the pearl to grow. The majority of bought pearls are cultured. These look identical to natural pearls, but are man-made. Compare freshwater versus saltwater pearls. Freshwater pearls are different from saltwater pearls. Freshwater pearls are cultured in mussels, while saltwater pearls grow in oysters. Freshwater pearls come in diverse shapes, colors, and lustres, but are most often found in the 'baroque' shape – lumpy and natural looking, and are no larger than 7mm. Saltwater pearls also come in many shapes, but can grow large. Saltwater pearls are classified based on where they were grown/type of oyster they were grown in. Freshwater pearls can be round, but these are more expensive than their baroque counterparts. Both freshwater and saltwater are available in nearly any color. Examine Akoya pearls. Akoya pearls, named after the Akoya oyster in Japan which they are grown in, are the epitome of the classic pearl. Akoya pearls are milky white or rose in color, with silver or gold overtones. However, they are also available in cream, minty green, and light blue. Akoya pearls range in size from 3mm to 10mm, and exist in the classic round shape. South Sea black pearls. South Sea black pearls are grown in black-lipped oysters off the coast of Tahiti. Pearls from this region are renowned for their rich black hue and large size. South Sea pearls start at 8mm, and get even larger. The most sought-after color of this type of pearl is black with a peacock green undertone. These pearls are also available in rich navy blue, silver and slate, deep plum, and dark green, and may have overtones of pink and blue. South Sea white pearls. Grown in the silver-lipped oyster, South Sea white pearls are found off the shores of Australia, Indonesia, Burma and Okinawa. Similar to black pearls grown in the region, South Sea white pearls are large and have a high luster. These aren't harvested until they are at least 9mm, making them more expensive than small white Akoya pearls. They are found primarily in creamy white and silver hues, but they may have a rose overtone. South Sea gold pearls. The rarest of all pearl varieties is the South Sea gold pearl. These are only grown in gold lipped oysters near the waters of Tahiti and surrounding tropical areas. These pearls are large – starting at 9mm – and valued for their unique color. These range in hues from light champagne to bright gold, the latter being more sought after. The gold-lipped oyster also produces white and cream pearls, but these look similar to those made by the silver-lipped oyster. Cortez pearls. Cortez pearls are a rare variety, grown in rainbow-lipped oysters off the coast of the Sea of Cortez in Mexico. They are classified as black pearls, but also come in a variety of colors. The most beautiful of the Cortez pearls (and most iconic) is dark pistachio green with bright rainbow overtones (primarily rose and gold). These pearls begin at 8mm, growing to 12 mm in size. Conch pearls. Conch pearls (pronounced 'Konk') are not traditional pearls, as they are non-nacreal (the saliva-like liquid in oysters) and are formed inside a conch shell. Conches are large mollusks in a spiral shell, found in the Caribbean and South Pacific Seas. Conch pearls are incredibly unique in appearance. They are found in bright pink and peach shades, with a flame-like pattern on the exterior. The flame, similar to that seen in an opal, determines the value of the pearl. They come in various sizes and shapes, but few are round. Color. The color is the first thing you notice about a pearl. While the color will vary widely depending on the type of pearl you're looking at, pay attention to two things: the body color, and the overtone color. The body color is the primary hue of the pearl, while the overtone color is the sheen or the color that 'pools' on the surface of the pearl. For example, a pearl might be white with rose overtones, or black with green overtones. Always examine a pearl's color against a white backdrop, such as a piece of white velvet or a similarly glare-free fabric. Use diffused full-spectrum light when examining the pearl's color. If you're buying a strand of pearls, always examine the colors of each of the pearls in contrast to the ones next to it. Look at the luster. Similar to looking at the color of a pearl, the luster refers to how much shine/reflection a pearl has. The shinier a pearl, the more valuable it is. When examining the luster of a pearl, see how closely the reflection resembles a mirror, and how much light it reflects. The more of a mirror-image the pearl is able to provide, the higher the value. Luster is easy to examine in a round pearl, while it is more difficult to examine in a baroque pearl because of the many contours. Check the whole pearl to make sure the luster is the same the whole way around. Check out the surface perfection. Entirely round pearls are very rare; most are a bit off-round or lumpy, with minor surface imperfections. You should examine each pearl on a strand, looking at the surface (im)perfection. There may be small marks, grooves, or lumps on the surface of the pearl. These are the result of other foreign bodies inside the oyster brushing against the pearl while it is being made. On the flip side, you want to make sure that imperfections on the pearl have not been removed. Sometimes pearls are 'worked' - sanded down - to reduce blemishes on the surface, but this lowers the value. You can see if a pearl has been worked if there is a change in luster or obvious texture difference on a certain part. Consider the size. The size of a pearl will vary depending on the type of conditions it was grown in, and the size of the original bit of debris at the center. Larger pearls are obviously more valuable than smaller ones, because they are much more rare. The bigger a pearl, the larger the original bit of sediment, and the longer it was left to 'cure' in the oyster. The size of any particular pearl will range from 3mm to 12mm, although you may find some that are smaller or larger than this. When examining a strand of pearls, it is ideal if they are all the same (or very close in) size. Look at the shape. There are many different possible shapes that pearls are available in, with round typically being the most valuable because they are the most difficult to form. However, the shape of a pearl is generally dependent on personal preference, as some shape styles are more appropriate for certain settings than others. Possible pearl shapes include: Round: perfectly spherical with no surface blemishes. Off-round: slightly wider on one side of the pearl, but not elliptical. Off-round pearls can be easily passed off as round pearls in a strand. Oval: rounded with a significant difference between the length and the width. A step further than an off-round pearl. Drop: egg-shaped with one end that's rounded, and one end that's slightly pointed. Button: a mostly round pearl, with one or two asymmetrical curves. Mabe: a round pearl that is flat on one side, creating a half circle. Baroque: a 'natural' pearl with lots of lumps and asymmetrical curves. Examine the nacre. The nacre is the substance excreted by the oyster that creates the pearl, when built up over the nucleus object. The longer a pearl is left inside an oyster, the more nacre it builds over time. As a result, highly nacreous pearls are more sought-after than low or non-nacreous pearls. A high amount of nacre increases the luster of a pearl. You can tell if a pearl has thin or medium nacre if you can see the nucleus reflecting inside, or if the exterior scratches away easily. The more nacre a pearl has, the stronger it is. Pearls grown in clams and conches are non-nacreous. Look at the similarities on a strand. If you are purchasing a strand of pearls that is staying together as a set, it is important that you find a strand with pearls nearly identical to each other. The more similar each of the pearls is in a strand, the more cohesive the overall look is. Compare and contrast each pearl up close,and look at them next to each other from a bit of distance away. Pay attention to the overall color, size, shape, luster, and nacre qualities of each of the pearls as your compare and contrast. The exception to this rule is a strand of baroque pearls; pay attention to color and luster, rather than shape. Look at buying loose strands. Loose strands of pearls are those that have been drilled to form beads, but are not yet strung into a necklace. As a result, loose strands of pearls are the cheapest form, but they require work on your part to make them into a piece of jewelry. You can also buy un-drilled loose pearls for use in settings for rings and earrings, keeping the same concept in mind. Consider getting a choker. A choker is the shortest pearl necklace strand available. It is designed so that it sits close to the base of the neck (so close it's as if it's choking you). Chokers are generally 10–14 inches (25.4–35.6 cm), depending on the person wearing it. Look into getting a princess strand. A princess necklace is typically the favorite of pear-wearers. It is associated with the classic and sophisticated look of the 1940's, with a draping strand of pearls that lands just below the hollow of the neck. A princess necklace is generally 16–19 inches (40.6–48.3 cm) long. Check out a matinee necklace.The next step after a princess necklace, the matinee is reserved for semi-formal events and is a bit longer than the aforementioned strands. The matinee generally ranges from 20–24 inches (50.8–61.0 cm) long. Look at an opera necklace. The opera style of pearl strands is reserved for formal occasions, as a result of it's long length (and associated high price). The opera length of necklace ranges from 30–36 inches (76.2–91.4 cm) long, draping just below the bust line. Consider getting a rope strand. A rope strand of pearls is the longest available, starting at a length of 36-inches and longer. Rope strands are worn doubled over or knotted, giving the appearance of multiple strands of pearls. Look at a bib necklace. A bib style necklace refers to multiple strands of pearls of differing lengths, attached to the same clasp. As a result of the layering, they give the appearance of a bib. Bib necklaces are generally used for semi-formal and formal occasions, because they tend to be on the showier side.

Choose a growth style. Compare freshwater versus saltwater pearls. Examine Akoya pearls. South Sea black pearls. South Sea white pearls. South Sea gold pearls. Cortez pearls. Conch pearls. Color. Look at the luster. Check out the surface perfection. Consider the size. Look at the shape. Examine the nacre. Look at the similarities on a strand. Look at buying loose strands. Consider getting a choker. Look into getting a princess strand. Check out a matinee necklace.The next step after a princess necklace, the matinee is reserved for semi-formal events and is a bit longer than the aforementioned strands. Look at an opera necklace. Consider getting a rope strand. Look at a bib necklace.

https://www.wikihow.com/Motivate-Yourself-to-Brush-Your-Teeth-Every-Day

How to Motivate Yourself to Brush Your Teeth Every Day

To motivate yourself to brush your teeth, try listening to your favorite song every time you brush, which will make it more fun. You can also try buying a flavored toothpaste to make the process more enjoyable. If you have trouble remembering to brush your teeth, set 2 alarms on your phone, one for in the morning and one for in the evening to remind yourself to brush. It's also easier to stay motivated when you give yourself a goals, so try setting a goal to brush every day for 1 week and reward yourself when you complete it! The reward can be anything you'd like, such as taking yourself out for dinner or buying yourself something nice.

Decide how many times a day you will brush your teeth. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day-- sometimes more. However, if you're struggling to even brush once a day, you may want to start there. Over time, as brushing becomes a habit and you feel its benefits, you'll likely start brushing more often naturally. Choose an activity you do every day. This can be washing your face, brushing your hair, or taking a shower. Determine to brush your teeth every time you do that activity. Be realistic about your schedule. If you tend to oversleep and run late to work, adding something else into your morning routine might be difficult. If you usually come home in the evening feeling exhausted, that might not be the best time to add in a new routine. You may feel too lazy or tired to stick with your plan. However, as soon as brushing becomes routine for you, it will feel like a normal part of your day. Place your toothpaste and toothbrush where you’ll see them. If you plan to brush every time you shower, keep your toothbrush and toothpaste near the shampoo. If you're going to brush when you wash your face, keep them right on top of your face wash, so you'll have to pick them up! You can also try brushing while you are in the shower. This may help you to make it a habit. Set an alarm. Set an alarm to remind you to brush each day in case you skip your designated time. Choose a time when you're likely to be home, so there's no excuse to not brush. An alarm can be like a backup plan. For example, if you ended up not showering today, the alarm will still remind you to brush your teeth. Make your routine fun. It's difficult to keep to routines that aren't enjoyable. If you make your routine fun, you're more likely to stick to it. You can listen to your favorite song each time you brush. This can even help you mark how much time you spend brushing! Brushing your teeth doesn't take too much focus, so feel free to watch TV or listen to the radio while you do it. Imagine that you will be getting a Hollywood smile if you keep on brushing. Take some silly selfies while you brush and send them to friends. You can even add captions like, "sticking to my routine!" to let them know about your commitment. Brush every day for thirty days. Thirty days is an achievable and admirable goal. Doing something for thirty days straight helps to turn that activity into a habit. Keep track on a calendar or in a date book. Make a mark on your calendar for each day that you brush. Keep your calendar in the bathroom, so you'll see it when you're tempted to skip brushing. If you miss a day, don't beat yourself up. Just resolve to get back on track the next day. Make brushing enjoyable. If you see brushing your teeth as a chore, you're less likely to keep at it. Do what you can to make the process enjoyable. Choose products that you like, and that are comfortable for you. Choose a toothpaste that you like. Toothpaste comes in many flavors including mint, anise, and cinnamon. They're all essentially the same in terms of effectiveness as long as they contain fluoride. Be sure that your toothpaste has the ADA seal of approval. Choose a toothbrush that fits comfortably in your hand and in your mouth. Soft bristles can feel good on sensitive gums and teeth and they will also protect your gums against gum recession. Reward yourself. Rewards can be big or small, but they should be significant to you. Decide ahead of time what your reward will be, and how long you'll have to keep up your routine to earn it. Tell a friend or loved one what your reward will be. They can remind you if you start to lose motivation. When you earn your first reward, take the time to enjoy it. Then set a new reward for a new goal. Rewards don't have to be related to your teeth at all! You can take yourself out to a great meal, or splurge on a purchase you wouldn't otherwise make. Visit the dentist. No one can give you more accurate feedback on your progress than your dentist. Regular appointments for checkups and cleanings are essentially feedback sessions to see how your brushing has improved your dental health. Talk to your dentist about your efforts to brush regularly and the progress you've made. Ask your dentist to tell you what you might be doing wrong and how you can improve your brushing habits. Notice any changes in how you feel. Once you've been brushing your teeth regularly for a while, you may feel more confident. Your smile and breath are likely more clean and fresh than they were before. Take the time to enjoy that newfound confidence; it's just what you need to stick with your new habit. Learn how brushing affects your teeth. The more you know, the more motivated you're likely to feel. There are plenty of websites about the importance of good dental hygiene. Find reasons that are personally compelling to you. Here are some examples: Brushing your teeth daily helps prevent cavities. Cavities can make eating painful, and are costly to get filled. A cavity that grows too big due to negligence can require a root canal, which costs an average of $900. If a tooth gets so bad that it's unable to be saved, it may need to be pulled. When a tooth is pulled, the teeth and jaw around that spot become weaker over time and the bone suffers resorption. Forces on your teeth will change and an entire series of problems will occur. If your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold, a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help change that. These toothpastes contain minerals that help protect the nerves in the teeth and make them less sensitive. Learn the other health benefits of brushing. Brushing your teeth doesn't just affect your mouth. Good dental hygiene has been linked to other benefits as well: Poor dental hygiene can be linked to respiratory diseases, like pneumonia and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). These diseases can be quite serious, and good dental hygiene can help prevent them. Poor dental hygiene leads to gum disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitis has been linked with an increased risk of preterm birth in pregnant women. Periodontitis, which follows gingivitis, can be linked to heart disease and this creates a constant level of bacteria in the circulatory system. Oral bacteria have also been linked to knee arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in a 2012 study. Look at pictures. Taking care of your teeth also leads to a better-looking smile. Compare images of people with healthy teeth to those who've neglected their teeth. The difference is likely to be a great motivator. Find strong visuals that will leave an impact on you. Some people may be missing teeth or have yellowed, cracked, or blackened teeth. Without daily brushing, your teeth could eventually look like this as well. You might even look at pictures of yourself from before and after brushing your teeth! Seeing the positive results of this habit can be a great motivator. Get insight from your dentist. Dentists have seen it all. If you're having trouble believing how important dental hygiene is, ask your dentist or dental hygienist. They will have plenty of knowledge and experience to share. Dentists may have useful charts or pamphlets that you can bring home. These can serve as reminders of the importance of dental hygiene.

Decide how many times a day you will brush your teeth. Choose an activity you do every day. Place your toothpaste and toothbrush where you’ll see them. Set an alarm. Make your routine fun. Brush every day for thirty days. Make brushing enjoyable. Reward yourself. Visit the dentist. Notice any changes in how you feel. Learn how brushing affects your teeth. Learn the other health benefits of brushing. Look at pictures. Get insight from your dentist.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Analytical-Essay

How to Write an Analytical Essay

To write an analytical essay, first write an introduction that gives your reader background information and introduces your thesis. Then, write body paragraphs in support of your thesis that include a topic sentence, an analysis of some part of the text, and evidence from the text that supports your analysis. You can use direct quotes from the text that support your point of view or paraphrase if you're trying to summarize information. Finally, complete your essay with a conclusion that reiterates your thesis and your primary support for it.

Understand the objective of an analytical essay. An analytical essay means you will need to present some type of argument , or claim, about what you are analyzing. Most often you will have to analyze another piece of writing or a film, but you could also be asked to analyze an issue, or an idea. To do this, you must break the topic down into parts and provide evidence, either from the text/film or from your own research, that supports your claim. For example, "Stanley Kubrick's The Shining uses a repeating motif of Native American culture and art to comment on America's history of colonizing Native Americans' lands" is an analytical thesis. It is analyzing a particular text and setting forth an argument about it in the form of a thesis statement. Decide what to write about. If you are writing this for a class, your teacher will generally assign you a topic (or topics) to write about. Read the prompt carefully. What is the prompt asking you to do? However, sometimes you will have to come up with your own topic. If you're writing an analytical essay about a work of fiction, you could focus your argument on what motivates a specific character or group of characters. Or, you could argue why a certain line or paragraph is central to the work as a whole. For example: Explore the concept of vengeance in the epic poem Beowulf. If you're writing about a historical event, try focusing on the forces that contributed to what happened. If you're writing about scientific research or findings, follow the scientific method to analyze your results. Brainstorm. You may not immediately know what your thesis statement should be, even once you've chosen your topic. That's okay! Doing some brainstorming can help you discover what you think about your topic. Consider it from as many angles as you can. Look for repeated imagery, metaphors, phrases, or ideas. Things that repeat are often important. See if you can decipher why these things are so crucial. Do they repeat in the same way each time, or differently? How does the text work? If you're writing a rhetorical analysis, for example, you might analyze how the author uses logical appeals to support her argument and decide whether you think the argument is effective. If you're analyzing a creative work, consider things like imagery, visuals in a film, etc. If you're analyzing research, you may want to consider the methods and results and analyze whether the experiment is a good design. A mind map can be helpful to some people. Start with your central topic, and arrange smaller ideas around it in bubbles. Connect the bubbles to identify patterns and how things are related. Good brainstorming can be all over the place. In fact, that can be a good way to start off! Don't discount any ideas just yet. Write down any element or fact that you think of as you examine your topic. Come up with a thesis statement. The thesis statement is a sentence or two that summarizes the claim you will make in your paper. It tells the reader what your essay will be about. Don't: write a vague or obvious thesis such as "Revenge is a central theme in Beowulf." Do: make a specific argument such as " Beowulf explores different styles of vengeance in the Anglo-Saxon age, contrasting the dragon's honorable retribution with the response of Grendel's mother." This is an analytical thesis because it examines a text and makes a particular claim. The claim is "arguable," meaning it's not a statement of pure fact that nobody could contest. An analytical essay takes a side and makes an argument. Make sure your thesis is narrow enough to fit the scope of your assignment. "Revenge in Beowulf could be a PhD dissertation, it's so broad. It's probably much too big for a student essay. However, arguing that one character's revenge is more honorable than another's is manageable within a shorter student essay. Unless instructed to write one, avoid the "three-prong" thesis that presents three points to be discussed later. These thesis statements usually limit your analysis too much and give your argument a formulaic feel. It's okay to state generally what your argument will be. Find supporting evidence. Depending on your assignment, you may need to work only with your primary sources (the text or texts you're analyzing) or with primary and secondary sources, such as other books or journal articles. The assignment should tell you what types of sources are required. Good evidence supports your claim and makes your argument more convincing. List out the supporting evidence, noting where you found it, and how it supports your claim. Example of supporting evidence : To support a claim that the dragon's vengeance was more righteous than Grendel's mother's, look at the passages in the poem that discuss the events leading up to each monster's attack, the attacks themselves, as well as the reactions to those attacks. Don't: ignore or twist evidence to fit your thesis. Do: adjust your thesis to a more nuanced position as you learn more about the topic. Make an outline. An outline will help structure your essay and make writing it easier. Be sure that you understand how long your essay needs to be. While some teachers are fine with the standard "5 paragraph essay" (introduction, 3 body paragraphs, conclusion), many teachers prefer essays to be longer and explore topics more in-depth. Structure your outline accordingly. If you're not quite sure how all your evidence fits together, don't worry! Making an outline can help you figure out how your argument should progress. You can also make a more informal outline that groups your ideas together in large groups. From there, you can decide what to talk about where. Your essay will be as long as it needs to be to adequately discuss your topic. A common mistake students make is to choose a large topic and then allow only 3 body paragraphs to discuss it. This makes essays feel shallow or rushed. Don't be afraid to spend enough time discussing each detail! Write your introduction. Your introduction should give your reader background information about your topic. Try to make your introduction engaging but not too overzealous. Avoid summarizing the prompt--it's best to simply state your argument. Also avoid dramatic introductions (beginning an essay with a question or exclamation is generally best to avoid). In general, do not use the first (I) or second (you) person in your essay. State your thesis, generally as the last sentence in the first paragraph. Example introduction : Revenge was a legally recognized right in ancient Anglo-Saxon culture. The many revenges in the epic poem Beowulf show that retribution was an essential part of the Anglo-Saxon age. However, not all revenges are created alike. The poet's portrayal of these revenges suggests that the dragon was more honorable in his act of revenge than Grendel's mother. This introduction gives your readers information they should know to understand your argument, and then presents an argument about the complexity of a general topic (revenge) in the poem. This type of argument can be interesting because it suggests that the reader needs to think about the text very carefully and not take it at face value. Don't: include filler and fluff sentences beginning with "In modern society" or "Throughout time." Do: briefly mention the title, author, and publication date of the text you're analyzing. Write your body paragraphs. Each body paragraph should have 1) a topic sentence, 2) an analysis of some part of the text and 3) evidence from the text that supports your analysis and your thesis statement. A topic sentence tells the reader what the body paragraph will be about. The analysis of the text is where you make your argument. The evidence you provide supports your argument. Remember that each claim you make should support your thesis. Example topic sentence : The key to differentiating between the two attacks is the notion of excessive retribution. Example analysis : Grendel's mother does not simply want vengeance, as per the Medieval concept of 'an eye for an eye.' Instead, she wants to take a life for a life while also throwing Hrothgar's kingdom into chaos. Example evidence : Instead of simply killing Aeschere, and thus enacting just revenge, she “quickly [snatches] up” that nobleman and, with him “tight in her clutches,” she leaves for the fen (1294). She does this to lure Beowulf away from Heorot so she can kill him as well. The formula "CEE" may help you remember: Claim-Evidence-Explanation. Whenever you present a claim, make sure you present evidence to support that claim and explain how the evidence relates to your claim. Know when to quote or paraphrase. Quoting means that you take the exact text and, placing it in quotation marks, insert it into your essay. Quoting is good when you use the precise wording of something to support your claim. Make sure that you use the correct form of quotation, depending on if you are using MLA, APA or Chicago style. Paraphrasing, on the other hand, is when you summarize the text. Paraphrasing can be used to give background or compress a lot of details into a short space. It can be good if you have a lot of information or would need to quote a huge portion of text to convey something. Don't: quote from more than two passages per paragraph, as a rule of thumb. Do: support all subtle or controversial claims with quotes or paraphrasing. Example of a quote : Instead of simply killing Aeschere, and thus enacting just revenge, she “quickly [snatches] up” that nobleman and, with him “tight in her clutches,” she leaves for the fen (1294). Example of a paraphrased sentence : The female Grendel enters Heorot, snatches up one of the men sleeping inside it, and runs away to the fen (1294). Write your conclusion. Your conclusion is where you remind your reader of how you supported your argument. Some teachers also want you to make a broader connection in your conclusion. This means that they want you to make a 'bigger world connection'. This could mean stating how your argument affects other claims about the text, or how your claim could change the view of someone reading the text you analyzed. Don't: introduce a completely new argument in your conclusion. Do: expand beyond your thesis statement by discussing its implications or wider context. Example conclusion : The concept of an 'eye for an eye' was very present in the early Medieval world. However, by comparing the attacks of both Grendel's mother and the dragon, the medieval world's perception of righteous vengeance versus unjust revenge is made clear. While the dragon acts out in the only way he knows how, Grendel's mother attacks with evil intent. Example conclusion with a 'bigger world connection': The concept of an 'eye for an eye' was very present in the early Medieval world. However, by comparing the attacks of both Grendel's mother and the dragon, the medieval world's perception of righteous vengeance versus unjust revenge is made clear. While the dragon acts out in the only way he knows how, Grendel's mother attacks with evil intent. As we saw from the study of other characters, these portrayals may tie into an early Medieval perception that women had greater potential for evil. Proofread your essay for spelling or grammar mistakes. A paper that contains many mistakes generally gets a lower grade than one that has been proofread and polished. Run a spell check, look for run-on sentences, and check for punctuation errors. Make sure to also format your essay correctly. For example, using a 12-pt standard font (like Arial or Times New Roman) and 1" margins is standard. Read your paper out loud. Reading out loud helps you to find places in the essay that might sound awkward. This is also a great way to find run-on sentences that you might not have noticed before. Make sure that all characters, titles, places, etc. are spelled correctly. Teachers will often mark you down if the name of a main character is spelled incorrectly throughout your paper. Go back to the text or article and confirm that your spelling is correct. If you are analyzing a film, look up the list of characters online. Check two or three sources to make sure that you have the correct spelling. Read your paper as if you were your teacher. Do you get your point across clearly? Is the structure of your essay easy to understand? Does your paper explain why the topic matters? Ask someone else to read your paper. Is there anything they think you should add or remove? Do they understand the point you are trying to make?

Understand the objective of an analytical essay. Decide what to write about. Brainstorm. Come up with a thesis statement. Find supporting evidence. Make an outline. Write your introduction. Write your body paragraphs. Know when to quote or paraphrase. Write your conclusion. Proofread your essay for spelling or grammar mistakes. Read your paper out loud. Make sure that all characters, titles, places, etc. Read your paper as if you were your teacher. Ask someone else to read your paper.

https://www.wikihow.com/Contact-Warren-Buffett

How to Contact Warren Buffett

If you want to contact Warrent Buffet, post a tweet to the user @WarrenBuffet if you want to make a quick comment that doesn't require a response. You could also address a letter to him at his company's address. Alternatively, send him an email to berkshire@berkshirehathaway.com, but keep in mind that he doesn't check this email address personally. If you want to have a higher chance of speaking to Warren Buffett face-to-face, enroll in an MBA program, since Buffett invites business students from 45 universities to his office 6 times a year for a question and answer session.

Write him a letter. The only mailing address available to the public is the address of his company, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. He is the company's chairman, president, and CEO. Mail your letter to: Berkshire Hathaway Inc. 3555 Farnam Street Suite 1440 Omaha, NE 68131 Address Warren Buffett in the greeting of your actual letter. He will not open the letter directly, but staff members who may open and read your letter first will at least know that you intend to reach Mr. Buffett directly. E-mail him. While Warren Buffett does not have a personal e-mail address and reportedly does not check the e-mail address provided for Berkshire Hathaway, there is some chance that a message sent to the Berkshire Hathaway e-mail address may reach him if the content is significant enough. The e-mail address is: berkshire@berkshirehathaway.com Note that there is a disclaimer on the website directly stating that the personnel at the corporate office is unable to provide a direct response to e-mail messages. The e-mail address should be used primarily for inquiries or comments related to the Berkshire Hathaway Inc. website. Only use it as a means of contacting Warren Buffett as a last resort; try sending a letter via regular mail first, if at all possible. Know what to expect. When you write to Mr. Buffett using the Berkshire Hathaway contact information, your letter may not actually reach him. He receives approximately 250 to 300 letters each day, all of which must go through various staff members before they arrive at his desk. Unsolicited mail rarely receives a reply. This includes personal mail, charitable gift requests, and most investment proposals. If you are making a charitable gift request, contact Buffett through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. He is a primary trustee for the foundation and works with the Gates to develop charitable giving strategies. Know what to write. The only way you might have your letter read and replied to is if you write an investment proposal that meets all the investment criteria set by Warren Buffett in his annual letter to shareholders. You can find the letter to shareholders here: http://www.berkshirehathaway.com/letters/letters.html While the acquisition criteria can change from year to year, oftentimes, business representatives must adhere to the following standards when they write: The acquisition must be a large purchase. The business must have demonstrated consistent earning power. The business must earn good returns on equity with little to no debt. The management must already be in place. The business must be simple. The proposal must come with an offering price. Note the missing pieces. There is no public phone number or fax number for either Warren Buffett or Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Contact the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for charitable gift requests. Warren Buffett is a trustee of the foundation and has considerable influence within the organization. Moreover, most of his charitable donations are made through the foundation, as well. Note that most unsolicited mail does not receive a reply, so you may not get a letter back. When writing to the foundation, you should use the generic "To Whom It May Concern" heading. Warren Buffett does not directly check mail sent to the foundation, nor do Bill or Melinda Gates. In the body of your message, within the first few paragraphs, mention that you would like the letter to be forwarded to Warren Buffett. Send an e-mail. You can contact the foundation at: info@gatesfoundation.org Note that this e-mail address is one of the recommended ways of contacting the foundation about grant inquiries. Call with a grant inquiry. If you do not have an e-mail address to use, you could call the foundation directly about a grant inquiry at: 206-709-3140 Before calling or e-mailing with a grant inquiry, it is strongly recommended that you review the foundation's Grantseeker FAQ: http://www.gatesfoundation.org/How-We-Work/General-Information/Grantseeker-FAQ Contact the main office. You can do so by mail or by phone. The mailing address for the main office is: 500 Fifth Avenue North Seattle, WA 98109 The phone number for the main office is: 206-709-3100 Get in touch with the East Coast office. You can write or call. The mailing address for this office is: PO Box 6176 Ben Franklin Station Washington, D.C. 20044 Use the following phone number: 202-662-8130 Use the Europe and Middle East office. You can send a letter or make a phone call for this office, as well. The mailing address is: 80-100 Victoria Street London SW1E 5JL The phone number is: +44 (0) 207 798 6500 Contact one of the other offices. The foundation also has a China office and an India office, both of which can only be contacted via telephone. The phone number for the China office is: 011-86-10-8454-7500 The phone number for the India office is: 011-91-11-4713-8800 Tweet him. You can find Warren Buffett's Twitter account at: https://twitter.com/WarrenBuffett Note that his Twitter page is not updated frequently and it may take some time before he sees your tweet. Even after he does see it, do not expect him to reply to it. This method of contact is best used if you only intend to send a quick comment that does not require a response. Enroll in an MBA program. While there is no guarantee that pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree will allow you to meet Warren Buffett, this is actually the best method to pursue if you hope to speak with him in person. Six times each year, Mr. Buffett invites graduate level business students from 45 universities to come to his office in Omaha, Nebraska. During these visits, the students interact with him during a 90-minute question and answer session. Afterward, he treats the students to lunch. Each college can only send 20 students, and of those students, 30 percent or more must be women. Attend his annual meeting. Warren Buffett has a shareholder meeting once every year. You can hear him speak, but the odds are low that you will actually be able to meet him or speak to him in return. The meeting is usually on the first Saturday of May. For more information, go to: http://www.berkshirehathaway.com/sharehold.html

Write him a letter. E-mail him. Know what to expect. Know what to write. Note the missing pieces. Contact the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for charitable gift requests. Send an e-mail. Call with a grant inquiry. Contact the main office. Get in touch with the East Coast office. Use the Europe and Middle East office. Contact one of the other offices. Tweet him. Enroll in an MBA program. Attend his annual meeting.

https://www.wikihow.com/Roast-Macadamia-Nuts

How to Roast Macadamia Nuts

To roast macadamia nuts, start by cracking them open and discarding the shells if you haven't already. Then, spread the nuts out in an even layer on a baking sheet. If you want to season your macadamia nuts, mix water, salt, and melted butter in a spray bottle, and spray the nuts with the mixture. Finally, roast the macadamia nuts in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wear eye protection. Macadamia nuts are known for being difficult to remove from their shells. Wear safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from any bits of shell that may go flying during this process. Basic protective equipment can be purchased at nearly any drug or grocery store. Obtain a macadamia nut cracker. A device made specifically for the task of cracking macadamia nuts will assist you in shelling these difficult nuts. The device is made to crack the shell while preserving the integrity of the nut inside. These may be difficult to find in local stores, so order one online through Amazon or another online seller if you cannot find any in a store near you. Shell the nuts. Using your nut cracker, begin cracking the shells. Most crackers will have you pull or turn a crank that will put an immense amount of pressure on the nut until it finally cracks. Once it has cracked, peel away the rest of the shell to expose the nut inside. Throw away the bits of shell and store the nut in a bowl or container nearby. Use a baking sheet. A standard baking sheet should be suitable for roasting macadamia nuts. A baking sheet is a long flat sheet that has edges to keep anything, such as nuts, from rolling or dripping off the sheet. They generally measure about 17 x 12 inches (43 x 30 centimeters) with a one inch high rim. Arrange the nuts on the pan. Be sure to use nuts of relatively similar size. This will protect the smaller nuts from burning while the larger ones continue to roast. If you're unsure, turn the nuts over several times while roasting to prevent burning. It is not necessary to season the nuts, as the flavor of the nuts themselves are delicious without any additives. Do not have more than one layer of nuts, to prevent burning and uneven roasting. Create a buttery spray. Salt and butter will enhance the flavor of the nuts and is a simple mixture you can make at home. Mix water, salt, and melted butter together and pour into a spray bottle. The proportion of each ingredient can be up to you. For example, if you enjoy the taste of butter, you can melt more butter and use less water. Spray your mixture over the macadamia nuts. To melt butter, place a small sauce pan on the stovetop and turn the heat to medium low. Place the butter in the pan and wait a few minutes for the better to melt. You can also microwave butter to make it melt. You shouldn't need to microwave it for more than thirty seconds, as butter melts quickly. Preheat the oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit (107 degrees Celsius). Any temperature between 225 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit (107 to 121 degrees Celsius) should be suitable for roasting macadamia nuts within ten to fifteen minutes. Mist the nuts with your buttery spray while you are waiting for the oven to warm up. Place the pan in the oven. When the oven is ready, put on a pair of oven mitts and slide the tray of macadamia nuts into the oven. Place in the center shelf of the oven. Roast for 10-15 minutes. You may want to roast longer or shorter, depending on your preference and taste. Monitor the nuts closely as they roast. If they turn anything darker than a golden brown, they will likely burn. Finished.

Wear eye protection. Obtain a macadamia nut cracker. Shell the nuts. Use a baking sheet. Arrange the nuts on the pan. Create a buttery spray. Preheat the oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit (107 degrees Celsius). Place the pan in the oven. Roast for 10-15 minutes. Finished.

https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-a-Beard

How to Grow a Beard

To grow a great beard, start with regular shaving and good skin care to help the hair grow in evenly. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and use moisturizer to help stimulate the hair follicles and keep them healthy. Once your beard starts coming in, choose a beard style that compliments your face shape. Use a trimmer every 5-10 days to continue shaping the beard as it grows in. To keep your beard neat, comb it daily. You can also try beard oil for moisture and luster.

Shave regularly until your facial hair comes in evenly. The worst way to grow a beard is to just stop shaving, or to never start. This results in patchy, uneven, and thin beards that just flat-out won't look good on your face. If your facial hair isn't growing in evenly all around your face, keep shaving regularly, and be patient until it does. If you're not sure how evenly your facial hair is growing in, shave your entire face and look for stubble. Does it grow on the tip of your chin as quickly as over your lip? Does it grow under your neck at the same rate as it does on your sideburns? If so, you're ready for growing a beard. If your beard doesn't grow evenly, there's a bit you can do to speed up the process and ensure that your hair will eventually grow in as thickly as possible. Genetics has a lot to do with your ability to grow facial hair. Some people simply won't be able to grow full beards. Raise your testosterone levels to speed up facial hair growth. If you're currently going through puberty, or have gone through puberty but haven't started growing your facial hair yet, there are some simple things you can do to stimulate testosterone levels and encourage hair growth. The effect won't necessarily be fast, but you'll get hair growing if you do some combination of the following: Exercise. Doing intensity training, cardio, and some strength training a few times a week encourages testosterone growth in males, helping to get facial hair growing. Warm up for three minutes, then do on/off sets, with 30 seconds of all-out exercise, then 90 seconds of moderate exercise. Do sets of seven of these circuits. Get your Vitamin D levels up, either by taking a supplement, or by spending some more time outdoors in the sun, absorbing Vitamin D naturally. According to some recently published research, ashwagandha is an herb that stimulates testosterone in men. It's also known as adaptogen, and is commonly sold as a supplement. Take care of your skin in the meantime. As you're trying to stimulate facial hair growth, it's also important to take care of your skin and address issues that can keep hair from growing evenly and looking good. Talk to your doctor about problems with rosacea, acne, or dryness before you decide to grow a beard. See your dermatologist while you are still shaving regularly. Apply the prescribed or over-the-counter medication for at least one month before growing facial hair. Keep your face moisturized, to keep the follicles healthy and stimulated. Use a natural foaming cleanser on your face to keep the skin healthy. Start with a fresh shave. Just as you need a clean canvas to start painting, when you decide you're ready to start growing a beard, you need a clean-shaven face. Start from scratch, trimming any facial hair you do have off, then shaving close to the skin. This will ensure that everything will grow as evenly as possible as you're starting your new beard. Consider having a hot shave at a barber's shop. This is typically the closest and most even shave you can get, to start off. After you shave, just stop for a period of about four weeks and do nothing, other than wash your face regularly and take care of your skin. Your facial hair should start to come in normally. Manage the itchiness of the early growth. Lots of guys stop growing out facial hair and start shaving because it gets itchy. Understand that itchiness will last for approximately four weeks, before you'll eventually get used to it, once the beard softens slightly. Use a moisturizer, or a natural beard oil on your beard follicles to soften the hairs and to keep the beard from itching too much. While there will always be some itchiness associated with the growing of body hair, it's possible to control somewhat. Read the third section for more information about beard care. Be patient. Everyone's facial hair grows at different rates, and it will take a while for some guys to grow beards, while others will seem to sprout whiskers in between morning shaves and evening showers. At whatever age and maturity level you're at, it's important to stay patient and wait for your beard to grow at it's own pace. For some guys, growing a beard out will happen in two or three weeks, while for others it may take as long as several months to get real results. Grow it out whenever you want. While lots of men like to grow out their beards in cold months for insulation purposes, it's a common misconception that beards are more uncomfortable in hot weather. In fact, beards help protect from UV sun rays, and work to cool the skin during hot weather, trapping sweat close to your face, cooling as it evaporates. While the itchiness associated with beards is typically less desirable during hot weather, it's not something that will do much to keep you warm. Beards offer a variety of other health benefits, including trapping dust to help you avoid asthma attacks and upper respiratory infections, and act as windbreakers, helping to shield your face from cold weather blasts. Trim with a beard trimmer every 5-10 days. After waiting for your initial grow-out period, when you've got the beard to its desired length, it's important to start trimming and shaping it. Most men should trim their beards about once every two weeks or so, depending on your speed of growth, and the style of beard you want to have. If you hope to end up with a Gandalf-style wizard's beard, it's still good to shape and trim using a beard trimmer, or scissors, to keep things growing evenly. If you want a very short beard, and have especially coarse hair, you might find you need to trim it more regularly, like every two or three days. Always keep your neck trim, up to your chin-line, or at whatever point along the neck looks best to you. If you don't trim the neck hair, beards typically look pretty caveman-like. Use a beard trimmer. While it's possible to trim longer beards neatly with a pair of hairdressing scissors, it's very difficult to keep a beard orderly without an electric trimmer, or at least regular hair clippers. The only difference is typically the size of the guards and of the clipper itself. Use a regular beard trimmer for shorter beards or the first few months of beard growth, and try a more hefty hair trimmer for thicker beards. A common mistake is learning to use a trimmer for the first time and shaving off too much. If you have some stubble, practice with the trimmer before you shave, to get a feel for how it works, and which guards are most appropriate for you. Start with the longest setting first, you can always take more off if you wish, but can't put it back on once it's been cut. Choose a beard style that fits your face shape. There are many ways to style and shape your beard, but a lot of the choice will depend on your face, and your personal sense of style. If it looks good to you, go for it. But in general, if you have full cheeks, plan on keeping it shorter on the sides. If you have a narrow face, you can keep some length to fill it out. Decide on a cheek line. You will need to choose how high the beard should go on your cheeks. Most people leave this section to natural growth, but if it seems to be creeping up to your cheekbones, you should trim the upper section. Use tapered settings on your trimmer, if possible. On most trimmers, you can use a tapered setting, which will allow you to trim the beard in even strokes, tapering it down to your neck as you go, without having to change the height of the trimmer itself. You can taper the cheeks, the neck and the chin, if you desire, for a nice, clean look. Consider less usual beard shapes. If you want to go with a more complicated beard style, there are lots of options available for you to style. Try any of the following beard styles: Goatees involve trimming off the cheeks, leaving your chin beard and your mustache. Pencil-line beard involve leaving only a thin line of beard along your jawline, connecting to your mustache. This typically looks best with very short hair, or a bald look. Pharaoh beards typically involve shaving everything but the chin, and growing out the chin, sometimes braiding or beading the beard as it grows. Wizard beards, or American Civil War-type throwback beards will take some time to cultivate, but essentially involve growing the beard out as long as possible, but still trimming the neck periodically, as well as the mustache, so it gets out of the way of your lip. Clean your beard before you trim it with a moisturizing shampoo. It's important to trim your beard when it's clean, to make sure the hairs are softened and untangled for an even trim. Wash your beard in the shower with warm water and soap. You can use a hair shampoo or a special beard shampoo, depending upon how your skin reacts, but it's normal for most guys to just use the same soap they use on their faces in the shower. People with longer beards may prefer a special shampoo, such as Bluebeard's brand. It leaves less residue than facial washes and some shampoos. Comb your beard regularly. Most trimmers will come with beard combs, but you can also use the same variety of brush or comb you might use on your hair, and comb your beard downward, with the grain, to make sure it lays nice and flat against your face. This is also a good way of seeing whether or not it needs a trim. Sometimes beards are called "flavor savers" for a reason. It is possible to get food, lint, and other junk stuck in your beard, if it grows especially long. Comb it regularly to keep it from becoming a bird's nest. Moisturize daily. If you have sensitive skin, try several moisturizers before you start growing your beard, and continue moisturizing your beard follicles and your face after you grow a beard, to keep your skin healthy underneath. A healthy beard needs a healthy base from which to grow. Lubriderm and other lotion brands are perfectly fine for using on your face and making sure your skin doesn't dry out. Try "beard lube" to combat itchiness or dryness. While they're not super-commonly used among men with beards, there are a variety of beard oils on the market, which can be combed into clean beards to keep them looking shiny, moisturized, and clean. It can be a desirable look, and it may give relief to men with sensitive skin who suffer from itchiness. Take a small dab of oil on a comb and lubricate the comb with the oil before combining your beard naturally. This is the best way to distribute the oil evenly throughout the hair. Coconut oil is excellent for the hair and makes for a perfectly natural substitute.

Shave regularly until your facial hair comes in evenly. Raise your testosterone levels to speed up facial hair growth. Take care of your skin in the meantime. Start with a fresh shave. Manage the itchiness of the early growth. Be patient. Grow it out whenever you want. Trim with a beard trimmer every 5-10 days. Use a beard trimmer. Choose a beard style that fits your face shape. Use tapered settings on your trimmer, if possible. Consider less usual beard shapes. Clean your beard before you trim it with a moisturizing shampoo. Comb your beard regularly. Moisturize daily. Try "beard lube" to combat itchiness or dryness.

https://www.wikihow.com/Skydive-for-the-First-Time

How to Skydive for the First Time

If you're skydiving for the first time, pay close attention to everything your instructor says before you board the plane. Then, once you're on the plane, relax until you reach the jumping altitude, at which point your instructor will clip you to their harness so you're attached. Listen carefully to how your instructor wants you to exit the plane, and then get ready to jump! Once you jump, you'll free fall at 120 miles per hour until you reach about 5,000 feet. At that point, your instructor will deploy the parachute, and you can take in the gorgeous views before landing!

Go to the United States Parachute Association's website to locate the nearest affiliated drop zone. Alternatives for other countries: Canada : The Canadian Sport Parachuting Association UK : The British Parachute Association Australia : The Australian Parachute Federation Call the drop zone to ask about their hours and schedule a skydive. Get all of your questions answered before you pay for the jump. Don't be afraid to ask whatever is on your mind because they've probably already heard your question before from someone else. Choose the method of your first jump. The vast majority of people choose to make a tandem jump. This involves jumping out of the plane while attached via a harness to an instructor who wears a parachute big enough for both of you. It requires very little training and you can just "sit back and enjoy the ride" while the instructor handles all the technical parts of the skydive. Another type of jump called an AFF (Accelerated Free Fall) Level One jump is offered at most drop zones. The training for this skydive involves a ground school course taking approximately 5-6 hours followed by a jump with your own parachute. On this type of jump, you will have two experienced instructors holding onto you during your exit from the plane and subsequent freefall in order to assist you with proper body positioning as well as initiating the canopy opening. You will also have the assistance of an instructor on the ground who is in communication with you via radio to assist with your landing pattern and proper "flaring" for landing. One additional option you may encounter is a "static line" jump. This jump includes the same training as an AFF Level 1 jump however upon exiting the plane, your parachute is automatically deployed by a "line" attached to the aircraft. Static line jumps have generally decreased in popularity in recent years, and most first-timers end up making either a tandem or AFF Level 1 jump. The remainder of this article describes steps related to making a tandem jump which is the most common first time jump. On the day of the jump, dress for the weather on the ground and wear sneakers. Bring an extra layer if you want but part of the fun is feeling the rush of air and although it is colder at high altitudes, you probably won't notice the difference because of all the adrenaline. Arrive before your appointment time but be prepared to wait for instructors to become available, the weather to break, etc. Even though you'll only be free falling for a minute, plan on being there for the entire day just in case. Pay attention. Before your jump, you will get a briefing and meet your instructor; this will help you enjoy your skydive much more. They will fit you into a harness that will connect to the instructor and the parachute. Board the plane and just soak it all in. Before you reach the jumping altitude (between 9,500 feet and 17,500 feet) the instructor will clip your harness onto theirs. At this point you are literally joined at the hip. Exit the plane. Listen to your instructor on how they want you to do this because every plane and every instructor/student combination is different. Enjoy it! Enjoy the feeling of falling at 120 miles (190 km) an hour and feeling free as a bird. The sensation is like no other, it feels like you are floating but the rush of air tells you that you are falling. Enjoy the view. Once the instructor deploys the parachute you have a 360 degree view of the beautiful earth from about 5,000 feet (1,524.0 m). Your instructor may loosen your harness at this point for your comfort. Don't worry, they won't drop you! Land safely. Once again, listen to your instructor on how to land. Sometimes you'll stand up for the landing, other times you'll slide in softly. It depends on a lot of factors. Brag. You just did something that most people don't have the courage to do. Enjoy the accomplishment. Get certified. If you enjoyed your first skydive and want to do it again, talk to the instructors and the people at the drop zone about how to get certified. It takes a lot of time, money, and effort but you'll find that skydivers are among the happiest people on the face of the earth.

Go to the United States Parachute Association's website to locate the nearest affiliated drop zone. Call the drop zone to ask about their hours and schedule a skydive. Get all of your questions answered before you pay for the jump. Choose the method of your first jump. On the day of the jump, dress for the weather on the ground and wear sneakers. Arrive before your appointment time but be prepared to wait for instructors to become available, the weather to break, etc. Pay attention. Board the plane and just soak it all in. Exit the plane. Enjoy it! Enjoy the view. Land safely. Brag. Get certified.

https://www.wikihow.com/Sue-an-Insurance-Company-After-an-Auto-Accident

How to Sue an Insurance Company After an Auto Accident

If you were in a car accident and your insurance company denied your claim, you may be able to sue them for a “Bad faith denial.” You can generally do this if the company fail to adequately investigate the claim or if they use deceptive practices or misrepresentations. If you haven't already received one, ask your insurer for a reason your claim was denied. It's best to speak to an attorney who specializes in car accidents to determine whether you have a chance of suing or not. Make sure you keep all communications and documents from your insurer to use as evidence. Your lawyer may try to negotiate a settlement with the company out of court, but if they don't cooperate, you'll have to file a complaint with your local court.

Understand automobile insurance. An insurance policy is a contract between the insured and the insurance company. The insured pays premiums and the insurance company, in exchange, agrees to cover the cost of certain claims. Typically, an insurance policy will cover two types of claims: first-party claims and third-party claims. A “first-party claim” is paid directly to the insured. For example, some insurance policies will cover damage to the insured's car or even an injury suffered by an insured. If you damage your car, you can make a claim for the insurance company to pay to fix it. Your insurer may also cover personal injuries you have suffered. Many driver's make sure to get coverage for “first-party” claims because they fear that other drivers will not have insurance. In fact, in a “no fault” state, you will have no choice but to bring a claim against your insurer after an accident. A “third-party claim” involves injury or harm to a third party. For example, if you get in a car accident and a jury finds that you were at fault, then your insurance company should pay some or all of the damages you owe to the other driver, up to your coverage limit. Participate in a personal injury lawsuit. When drivers get into an accident, they often sue each other. They do not sue each other's insurance companies. Instead, the insurance company will “indemnify” its insured, i.e., it will pay some or all of the damages owed, provided that the claim falls within the insurance policy agreement. If the insurance company refuses to pay a valid claim, then its insured may sue it for bad faith. If you win at trial but the other driver's company refuses to pay, you generally cannot sue the insurance company for “bad faith.” This is because the duty of good faith is owed to the insured, not to injured third parties. If you are injured and the other party's insurer refuses to pay a claim in bad faith, then you can see if the state allows the other party to “assign” its bad faith lawsuit to you. Understand an insurer’s duties. An insurance policy carries with it an implied covenant of “good faith and fair dealing” on the part of the insurer. This means that it must discharge all of its duties “reasonably.” An unreasonable delay or refusal to pay a valid claim is an example of bad faith. Other duties include a duty to reasonably investigate a claim and a duty to defend against a claim. Identify “bad faith” conduct. Bad faith can take many forms. To see if you have a claim for bad faith against your insurer, then you need to look for the following: Deceptive practices or deliberate misrepresentations to avoid paying claims. Deliberate misrepresentation of record or policy language in the hopes of avoiding coverage. Unreasonable delay in resolving claims or a failure to investigate. Unreasonable litigation conduct. Arbitrary or unreasonable demands for proof of loss. Coercive or abusive tactics used to settle a claim. Compelling an insured to contribute to settlement. Failing to investigate the claim thoroughly according to its own procedures. Failing to maintain adequate investigative procedures. Failing to disclose policy limits and explain applicable policy provisions or exclusions. Hire an attorney. To understand if you can bring a suit for “bad faith,” then you should speak to an experienced attorney. An experienced lawyer will be able to identify any conduct by the insurance companies that might qualify as “bad faith.” Furthermore, an attorney will know whether your state allows “bad faith” claims to be brought in your particular situation. To find an experienced attorney, you should visit your state bar association's website, which should run a referral service. You can search for attorneys by location and specialty. You should look for an attorney who handles car accidents. If your state's referral system does not let you filter results according to that specialty, then look for someone who practices personal injury law. When you find an attorney, you should call and set up a consultation. At the consultation, you should ask the lawyer if they have experience in these kinds of lawsuits. Not all personal injury attorneys will have experience suing insurance companies for bad faith. Get a copy of the insurance policy. The insurance policy is the basis of your lawsuit. An insurance company only has to cover claims it has agreed to cover in the policy. Accordingly, you need to be familiar with your policy. Share a copy with your attorney, also. Your lawyer needs to know the full scope of your coverage. Even if the insurer acted reasonably in denying your claim, you may still have different legal causes of action against the insurer. Ask the insurer for the reasons a claim was denied. You should get your insurer on record as to why it is not honoring a claim. You should ask specifically for your insurer to put its reasons for denial in writing. Your letter may force the insurance company to alter course and stop denying your claim. Even if you are unsuccessful in that respect, you are also creating a paper trail of evidence that the insurance company has engaged in bad faith. Keep all communications with your insurance company. Since your insurance company will be the defendant to your lawsuit, you should keep copies off all communications with the insurance company. Preserve all of the following: Letters Emails Voice messages Notes from any face-to-face conversations or unrecorded telephone calls Preserve all evidence related to the claim. If you are suing for bad faith, then you will want to preserve all evidence that relates to your lawsuit. This evidence can take many forms: If your insurance company refused to indemnify or defend you in an automobile accident suit, then you will want information related to money you spent on defending yourself in the personal injury lawsuit. You should also preserve information such as any written judgment entered against you by a court, as this will show how much you owe a third party. If your insurance company denied a first-party claim from you (e.g. for damage to your car), then you will want evidence showing the damage or injury. This can take the form of medical bills, physical therapist bills, as well as bills from an auto repair shop. Report a violation, if necessary. State law may require that you notify the insurer and your state's Department of Insurance in writing of any violation. In Florida, for example, you must notify the insurer and the Florida Department of Insurance. The insurer then has 60 days to cure. To find your state's Insurance Department, visit this map and select your state. Participate in settlement negotiations. Your attorney may contact your insurance company and seek to participate in settlement negotiations. Negotiations may also happen after you file a lawsuit. In any event, you should take settlement negotiations seriously. A successful settlement will allow you to avoid going to trial. Your lawyer owes you an ethical duty to notify you of settlement offers. Even if your lawyer does not want to engage in settlement, he or she must still tell you. Ultimately, whether to settle is your decision, not your lawyer's. File a complaint. If your state allows a lawsuit against an insurer for bad faith, then your attorney will start the lawsuit by filing a complaint in court. The complaint will list the facts as you allege them and ask for requested relief. In this type of lawsuit, you can be compensated not only for your injuries but sometimes an additional amount in punitive damages. To get punitive damages, you typically have to allege that the insurance company's conduct was malicious, oppressive, or fraudulent. You shouldn't wait to bring a suit. States have strict “statute of limitations.” These statutes require that you bring a lawsuit within a certain amount of time. In Nevada, you will have four years from the adverse action by the insurer to file a suit. However, in Indiana, the statute of limitations is two years and could be shortened by the policy itself. Sit for a deposition. One way for an insurance company to defend itself is to claim that you are to blame for its failure to investigate or settle a claim. For example, the insurance company might claim you didn't report an accident properly, didn't give the insurance company requested documents, or breached your contract in other ways. Accordingly, you should review your communications and paperwork to make sure that you followed the insurance company's policies. You should prepare for your deposition with your attorney. In a deposition, you will answer questions under oath in front of a court reporter. You can prepare by doing a “dry run” where your lawyer pretends to be the insurance company's lawyer. Preparing for a deposition is also good preparation for trial, where you will also be answering a lawyer's questions. Focus on listening closely to the question and only answer the question asked. Don't volunteer information. If you don't know the answer to a question, then say, “I don't know.” Never guess. Pick a jury. Before the trial can begin, you must pick a jury in a process called “voir dire.” During this process, the attorneys will ask potential jurors questions in order to uncover their biases. If a juror admits to being biased against your case, then your attorney can strike the juror “for cause.” Your attorney will also have a certain number of peremptory challenges. With these challenges, your lawyer does not have to give a reason for why the juror has been struck from the panel. You may have the option of a bench trial. As the plaintiff in this type of lawsuit, you should take a jury trial. Juries have a tendency to award big verdicts to plaintiffs when they sue insurance companies. In many states, you are able to sue for “punitive” damages and can therefore collect much more from the insurer than the amount you owe to the injured driver. Present evidence. As the party going first, you will present evidence. You will call witnesses to testify and to admit documents into evidence. Your lawyer should try to start and end the case strong, by sandwiching weaker witnesses in the middle. Often, your attorney will try to develop a bad faith case along common themes, such as showing a “pattern or practice” of bad faith inside the insurance company. Your attorney may call the following witnesses: you (the insured) the claims adjuster an expert who can testify to industry standards and who can explain how your insurance company fell short of those standards Await the verdict. After the evidence has been presented, the judge will read the jury instructions to the jury before they withdraw for deliberations. In state court, verdicts do not necessarily have to be unanimous. If you are unhappy with the result, then speak to your lawyer about a possible appeal. Appeals can be costly, and the cost of the litigation may weigh on whether or not you want to continue to pursue the bad faith claim.

Understand automobile insurance. Participate in a personal injury lawsuit. Understand an insurer’s duties. Identify “bad faith” conduct. Hire an attorney. Get a copy of the insurance policy. Ask the insurer for the reasons a claim was denied. Keep all communications with your insurance company. Preserve all evidence related to the claim. Report a violation, if necessary. Participate in settlement negotiations. File a complaint. Sit for a deposition. Pick a jury. Present evidence. Await the verdict.

https://www.wikihow.com/File-Bankruptcy-in-the-United-States

How to File Bankruptcy in the United States

To file bankruptcy in the United States, start by determining which kind of bankruptcy you should file for. If you're an individual or business, you can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy if your income is lower than your monthly expenses. If you're an individual and your income is greater than your monthly expenses, you can file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy as long as your debts don't exceed the limit. Once you know what bankruptcy you want to file for, you'll need to fill out the necessary paperwork and file it with a court.

Consider other options. Bankruptcy should only be used as a last resort. Before filing, try other options available to you to pay off your debts. Contact your creditors and try to negotiate for a loan settlement or a repayment plan with lower payments. Alternately, you can try a short sale of your assets to cover your debt, assuming you are not underwater on your loan. Try consulting with a debt management agency before deciding to file for bankruptcy. Analyze your debt. Certain kinds of debt cannot be discharged, or erased, even if you declare bankruptcy. Categorize all of your debt and calculate how much falls into categories that cannot be discharged. If the majority of your debt cannot be erased, then bankruptcy may not the right option for you. Note that each state has specific provisions for those assets which are exempt from bankruptcy. Be sure to check state law. The following kinds of debt cannot be discharged in a bankruptcy: Alimony Child Support Debts that arise after bankruptcy is filed Some debts incurred in the six months prior to filing bankruptcy Loans obtained fraudulently Debts from personal injury while driving intoxicated Debts from willful and malicious injuries to person or property Some student loans Some taxes Secured loans, as lenders can foreclose on their capital Know which assets are exempt from seizure in bankruptcy proceedings. While bankruptcy proceedings will seek to seize and sell off your valuable assets to repay creditors, there are some assets that are protected under state law. The exempted assets will depend on the type of bankruptcy you are filing for and your state's laws. Assets may be completely protected or protected up to a certain value. For example, there might be at automobile exemption of $5,000, meaning that you could keep a $4,000 car but not a $20,000 one. Common protected assets are cars, wedding rings, and your home. Some states may offer "wild card" exemptions that allow you to keep any other valuable assets up to a certain amount. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to keep all of your assets, but you can reduce your liability to creditors by selling of assets of significant value. Understand that bankruptcy does not erase debt for cosigners. A cosigner agrees to pay your debt in the event that you cannot pay. For example, a parent may have cosigned an auto loan for you when you graduated from college because you had little or no credit. However, if you declare bankruptcy, a cosigner on your loan is still be legally obligated to repay your debt. For example, your parent will still have to repay all or part of that car loan, even if you declare bankruptcy. Learn about the different kinds of bankruptcy. Bankruptcy in the United States is handled in federal court under the rules of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. The U.S. Bankruptcy code identifies several different kinds of bankruptcy. These are usually referred to by their chapter in the U.S. Bankruptcy code. Individuals and businesses may file for Chapter 7. Property may be liquidated to pay off creditors. Secured debt may be eliminated, or you have the option of allowing the property to be repossessed or paying the creditor a lump sum equal to the current value of the property. Your income must be below a certain level to qualify for Chapter 7. Chapter 13 is also known as “wage earner” bankruptcy. Under Chapter 13, if you have a reliable source of income, you can propose a repayment plan to your creditors that pays them back over the next three to five years. Your debts must be below $1,149,525 in secured debt and $383,175 in unsecured debt. Note that the amount received by the creditors is established by your income after bankruptcy, not the amount of debt owed. Municipalities, such as cities, towns, villages, taxing districts, municipal utilities, and school districts can reorganize under Chapter 9. Businesses can reorganize under Chapter 11 or liquidate under Chapter 7. Chapter 12 is similar to Chapter 13. It is reserved for businesses for which 80% or more of debt is from the operation of a family farm or fishery. Understand the Consequences of Bankruptcy. Learn about the kinds of debt that can be erased and what debts will not be forgiven. Recognize the impact on cosigners to your loans. Decide if you can live with the negative impact bankruptcy has on your credit. Evaluate whether or not you even qualify for bankruptcy. The impact bankruptcy has on your credit is largely determined by how good your credit is to begin with. If your credit score is high, it will probably take a huge hit and drop significantly. If your credit is already pretty bad, bankruptcy might not lower your score by very much. The more accounts associated with the filing, the bigger the impact on your credit score. If you file for Chapter 7 or 11, it will remain on your credit report for up to 10 years. If you file for Chapter 13, it may stay on your report for up to seven years. A Chapter 11 bankruptcy will stay on the business's credit report, not the individual owner's, unless they file a personal bankruptcy. Consider hiring a bankruptcy attorney. Hiring an attorney is not required, but it is recommended. Filing for bankruptcy is a very complicated process and is rarely successful without the help of an attorney. Free legal services are available for those who cannot afford an attorney. For help finding an attorney, contact the American Bar Association or the Legal Services Corporation.. Filing without an attorney is called filing pro se. If you do decide to file pro se , the court may allow non-attorney preparers to help you. They can only help you with paperwork. They cannot answer legal questions or provide legal advice. Since they don't represent you, they cannot sign anything on your behalf or receive payment for court fees. The United States has 90 bankruptcy districts, each with one bankruptcy court. Every state has at least one or more districts. Find out whether or not you qualify. To file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your income must be below a certain level. If you have any income left over after paying your monthly expenses, then you must file for Chapter 13 and make arrangements to repay your creditors. Take the “means test” to find out if you qualify for Chapter 7. Complete a series of three forms to take the means test. You may not have to fill out all of the forms. Your answers on the first form determine whether or not you have to fill out the others. Download form 22A-1 from the U.S. Court's website. The form takes you through the steps of calculating your income and comparing it to the median income in your state for the same household size. If your income is below the state median, then you qualify for Chapter 7. If not, you proceed to form 22A-2. Download form 22A-2 from the U.S. Court's website. The form takes you through further analysis of your income to determine if you qualify for Chapter 7. Fill out form 22A-1Supp to determine if you are exempt from the means test because most of your debts are from business expenses or you have recent military service. Fill out the bankruptcy forms. The bankruptcy forms list all of your property, debt, income and expenses for the court. You must complete a large packet of forms. These forms include the bankruptcy petition, a series of schedules and various other forms. Download the forms from the U.S Court's website. All debts need to be listed to be discharged; failure to list a debt may mean it continues after the bankruptcy. File the bankruptcy forms. Filing the forms officially begins your case. If you are using an attorney, he or she will file the forms for you. If you are representing yourself, then you can take them to the bankruptcy court yourself. Receive a bankruptcy trustee. The court will assign you a trustee when you file the forms. The trustee works on behalf of your creditors. This person is responsible for verifying the information in your bankruptcy documents. The trustee also looks at the property you own and determines how much of it you can keep. Each state has rules that govern what property is exempt from liquidation in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The trustee determines this for your case and liquidates any non-exempt property. A bankruptcy judge presides over the bankruptcy court. The bankruptcy judge rules on matters such as eligibility and discharges. A debtor rarely has to appear in court before the bankruptcy judge. Much of the process is administrative and is carried out by the trustee away from the courthouse. Get credit counseling. Any individual filing for bankruptcy is required to receive credit counseling and debtor education. Credit counseling is done before filing for bankruptcy. Debtor education occurs after bankruptcy. Certificates of completion must be presented to the court before debts can be discharged. Organizations providing these services must by approved the U.S. Trustee Program. Consult the Department of Justice to find a list of approved credit counseling agencies and debtor education courses. Attend the 341 Meeting. You will have to attend a formal meeting of creditors, which usually happens at the offices of your trustee. This meeting with creditors is known as the 341 meeting, referring to section 341 of the Bankruptcy code. This requires debtors to face creditors so they can answer questions about their debts and property. The meeting will occur approximately one month after you file. During the meeting, the trustee asks you questions about your debt and why you are filing for bankruptcy. Arrangements for selling your non-exempt property are made. Also, arrangements are made for property pledged as collateral in secured loans. Evaluate your eligibility for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Businesses cannot file for Chapter 13, even if you are a sole proprietor. You must have a certain amount of disposable income. Your debts cannot be too high. You do not qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy if your secured debts exceed $1,149,525. Also you must be current on your income taxes. You must prove that you filed your federal and state income taxes for the past four tax years. Fill out the bankruptcy forms. List all of your financial data. Indicate your income. Value your property. Enter your repayment plan. The forms for Chapter 13 are the same as the forms from Chapter 7. Download the forms from the U.S Court's website. File your bankruptcy forms with the court. A trustee will be appointed to your case by the court. Realize, however, that the trustee represents your creditors, not you. This person's job is to verify your information, look for fraud and administer the bankruptcy procedures. If you feel you need representation, you should hire an attorney. However, you are not required to have one. Attend two hearings. Within approximately one month of filing for bankruptcy, you will attend a meeting with your creditors. The trustee will arrange this meeting. Here you will answer questions about your debt and negotiate the terms of your repayment plan. Shortly thereafter, you will attend a confirmation hearing with a bankruptcy judge who will confirm your repayment plan.. Learn what a discharge means. If you are awarded a bankruptcy discharge, you are no longer legally required to repay some kinds of debts. This is a permanent order. Creditors can take no further action against you to collect the debt. They cannot communicate with you about the debt. They can take no legal action against you. Unless there are any objections to the discharge, it is usually granted automatically. Creditors, debtors and their attorneys all receive copies of the order of discharge. Know when you can expect the discharge to occur. The amount of time it takes to get a discharge varies depending on the type of bankruptcy for which you file. The court can deny a discharge if the petitioner does not complete the required credit counseling and debt education courses. Exemptions from this requirement can be granted in some cases if the debtor is disabled or on active military duty. In a Chapter 7 case, the discharge can happen within 60 days of the first 341 meeting, which is usually approximately four months from the date the debtor files for bankruptcy. It may take longer if a creditor files a complaint objecting to the discharge or a motion to dismiss the case. In Chapter 13 cases, the court grants a discharge after the debtor completes all agreed-upon payments. Since these payment plans last three to five years, it may take several years for the discharge to be granted. Prepare for debts that cannot be discharged. The kinds of debts that can be discharged vary depending on the kind of bankruptcy filed. Congress determines the kinds of debts that cannot be discharged. These decisions are based on public policy. Debtors must still repay those debts that cannot be discharged. The categories of debt that cannot be discharged include some taxes, spousal or child support, debts for personal injury, student loans, and debts owed for driving under the influence. Under Chapter 13, some debts can be discharged that would not be dischargeable under other chapters. These include some taxes, some personal injury debts, and debts from property settlements during a divorce. Petitioners can also file a hardship discharge if they are unable to complete the planned payments due to circumstances beyond their control. Realize that a discharge is not guaranteed. Creditors can object to and block a discharge by filing a complaint in the bankruptcy court. This is known as an adversary proceeding. The court can deny a discharge if you delay or hinder the proceedings. For example, you will not receive a discharge if you do not supply the proper documents, fail to complete the required educational courses, willfully conceal or destroy records or property or perjure yourself. A discharge can be revoked if it is determined that it was obtained fraudulently. This typically occurs within one year of the discharge. Consider repaying some discharged debts. You may choose to repay some debts that have been discharged. Discharged debts cannot be legally enforced, but you can voluntarily repay them. For example, if you owe money to a family member, you may choose to repay that debt. Also, you may want to repay a debt to someone whose opinion is important to you. An example would be debts for medical treatment from a family doctor. Keep copies of the discharge court papers. Keep all discharge court papers and decisions for your records. These will help you prove the debts have been discharged in the event creditors attempt to collect old debts. Creditors may claim after the fact that debts were discharged dishonestly, so having the papers to prove the court's decision can be useful. Create a budget. Develop a realistic spending plan. Pay all of your bills on time. Stick to your budget at all costs. Avoid accumulating any more debt. Save to establish an emergency fund to help you deal with unexpected expenses. Set up automatic payments to help you pay your bills on time. Adopt a simpler life style. Reduce your living expenses if possible. Pay less for groceries and housing. Purchase items with cash only. If you filed for Chapter 13, then you are living within a court-appointed budget while you work to repay debts. You will not be able to get a credit card or an auto loan without the court's permission. Get a secured credit card. Set up a secured credit card by depositing a given amount of money into a bank account. This sets your spending limit. Charge small amounts to this account each month. Pay the bill on time and as agreed. Secured credit cards help rebuild credit. Some cards may reward responsible payments by increasing the spending limit without requiring an additional deposit. Understand how bankruptcy will affect your credit. It is possible to successfully bounce back from bankruptcy more quickly than you would think. You may still qualify for an FHA home loan. You will still receive credit card offers. You will still be able to get other loans, such as auto loans, at a reasonable rate. Bankruptcy does remain on your credit report for up to 10 years. However, your credit score can recover quickly if you make all of your payments on time. Review your credit report. You can receive one free credit report each year. Review your credit report and check for errors. Make sure debts you no longer owe are not listed. Look for incorrect balances. Check for debts that are not yours. If you find an error, file a claim with the credit reporting agency.

Consider other options. Analyze your debt. Know which assets are exempt from seizure in bankruptcy proceedings. Understand that bankruptcy does not erase debt for cosigners. Learn about the different kinds of bankruptcy. Understand the Consequences of Bankruptcy. Consider hiring a bankruptcy attorney. Find out whether or not you qualify. Fill out the bankruptcy forms. File the bankruptcy forms. Receive a bankruptcy trustee. Get credit counseling. Attend the 341 Meeting. Evaluate your eligibility for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Fill out the bankruptcy forms. File your bankruptcy forms with the court. Attend two hearings. Learn what a discharge means. Know when you can expect the discharge to occur. Prepare for debts that cannot be discharged. Realize that a discharge is not guaranteed. Consider repaying some discharged debts. Keep copies of the discharge court papers. Create a budget. Adopt a simpler life style. Get a secured credit card. Understand how bankruptcy will affect your credit. Review your credit report.

https://www.wikihow.com/Perform-Ghusl

How to Perform Ghusl

To perform Ghusl, start by finding a place where you can enjoy complete privacy. Then, make it your intention to perform Ghusl and recite "Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Raheem." When you're ready, wash both of your hands and your private parts with clean water. Then, gargle some water and cleanse your face. Move on to washing your arms, your hair, and the rest of your body, and repeat 3 times. When you're finished, dry your body with a clean towel and get dressed.

Remember that ghusl is required after the end of menstrual bleeding. Do this as soon as possible after your menstruation stops, preferably before your next prayer. If you see recurrent spotting or bleeding, perform ghusl again to purify yourself after the bleeding stops again. This also extends to bleeding after childbirth. If there's no bleeding afterwards, ghusl should be performed on the 40th day after childbirth. Wash any Muslim who has died by natural causes as soon as possible. This can be done as part of the funeral rituals for the deceased and should be performed as soon as possible after death. Typically, adult members of the deceased's family will perform the required ghusl. Note that there is an exception for those who die in battle, who should not be washed in a ghusl ritual. Note that ghusl is required after an instance of pleasurable ejaculation. This includes ejaculation after sexual intercourse or accidental ejaculation as a result of a wet dream. If semen is released without any accompanying pleasure, however, you don't have to perform ghusl in that instance. For example, if a person's body emits semen as a result of sickness, then that person does not have to perform ghusl. Note that ghusl is not required for merely discharging madhiy (urethral fluid), which sometimes seeps out after thinking of or desiring intercourse. If you've had sexual intercourse without ejaculation, you will also need to perform ghusl in this instance. Consider performing ghusl in situations where it’s merely preferred. There are some situations where ghusl is not strictly required, but is generally recommended. Some situations where ghusl is recommended include: When a non-Muslim has converted to Islam. Before commencing Friday prayers. Before commencing Eid prayers. After washing a corpse. Before undertaking a pilgrimage to Mecca. Go to a private area to perform the ritual, if you can. It's considered sinful in Islam to expose the lower half of your body to other people. The easiest way to do this is to simply perform the ritual in your private bathroom with the door closed and locked. The exception to this rule is that you're allowed to expose yourself to your marital spouse. Form the intention to purify yourself in your heart. This can be done by simply thinking to yourself that you're performing this ritual for the pleasure of Allah. This does not need to be stated out loud; just thinking it to yourself is fine. There is no set way to do this “properly.” Just keep your religious intentions in mind in order to satisfy this requirement. Find a source of clean water you can use. In addition to an ordinary shower or bath, this source can also include rain, well, spring, sea, river snowmelt, or pond water. However, avoid using impure water or water that has already been used for something else. Note that discolored water or water that may contain bodily fluids from animals or humans cannot be used for the ghusl ritual. Make sure to use safe water to perform this ritual, especially if you're in an area where the sanitation of the local water supply is in question. Use clean earth and rub it over your face and hands if you are traveling and can't find a source of clean water. This is known as tayammum. Afterwards, perform ghusl with water as soon as you find a water source. Say “bismillah” out loud to invoke the name of Allah. This is a verbal cue that you're performing ghusl for the pleasure of Allah. This is also a reminder to yourself that this is an important religious ritual and not just a bath. You can also say the longer phrase, Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Raheem, if you wish. This means "In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful." Wash your hands up to and including your wrists first. Wash your right hand thoroughly, making sure to wash and rub in between each of the fingers. Do this 3 times, then wash your left hand 3 times in the same fashion. Just like with regular ablution, you should remove nail polish before performing this ritual. Men and women must also remove anything that may prevent water from washing the skin, such as jewelry. Move on to washing your private parts and any contaminated areas. Remove all traces of semen or vaginal discharge on your private parts with water. If these fluids are on any other parts of your body, such as your hands, wash these as well. Be sure to do this 3 times to fully purify yourself. Douse your head, face, and neck with water 3 times. Be sure to wash your head deeply enough that the water reaches all the way down to the skin on your scalp. If you have a beard or other facial hair, wash underneath this area as well. Do not leave any dry areas on your head. If you have a beard, take a handful of water below your chin and rub it through your beard to wash it. Be sure to wash your ears as part of your head. However, you do not have to wash the inside of your ears during this process. Wash the entire right side of your body next, from shoulder to foot. Use your left hand to rub the water all over the right side of your body, taking care not to leave any area unwashed. Make sure you include your back, thighs, legs, feet, and private parts in the washing. If you're using a cup or bucket to pour water over yourself, you may need to pour a liberal amount of water on your body to make sure you wash all of it. Repeat this process on the left side of your body. Wash the left side of your body from your shoulders all the way down to your feet. Once again, make sure you've washed every part of your body during this process. Be aware that missing a single part of your body makes the ritual null. It should be performed in detail with the intention in your heart to become clean. Note that there isn't scholarly consensus regarding the order in which the ghusl is performed. While most scholars argue that the right side of the body should be washed first, some also claim that the entire body should be washed after the head and face. Dry yourself off with a clean towel, if desired, and get dressed. You're not obligated to dry off after finishing the ghusl. However, if you do choose to dry your body with a towel, make sure the towel is completely clean. Otherwise, you'll have to restart the whole process!

Remember that ghusl is required after the end of menstrual bleeding. Wash any Muslim who has died by natural causes as soon as possible. Note that ghusl is required after an instance of pleasurable ejaculation. Consider performing ghusl in situations where it’s merely preferred. Go to a private area to perform the ritual, if you can. Form the intention to purify yourself in your heart. Find a source of clean water you can use. Say “bismillah” out loud to invoke the name of Allah. Wash your hands up to and including your wrists first. Move on to washing your private parts and any contaminated areas. Douse your head, face, and neck with water 3 times. Wash the entire right side of your body next, from shoulder to foot. Repeat this process on the left side of your body. Dry yourself off with a clean towel, if desired, and get dressed.

https://www.wikihow.com/Open-a-DAT-File

How to Open a DAT File

To open a DAT file on a Windows computer, look at where the file is stored or what it's named to figure out what program will open it. For example, if the DAT file is in a folder named “Adobe,” you can assume that an Adobe app will probably open the file. Alternatively, try opening the DAT file in a text editor so you can gain some context from the file's contents. Once the file is opened in a text editor, look for a line or two that mentions a specific program or indicates what kind of file, like video or text, that the DAT contents are meant to be. When you have an idea of what kind of program will open the file, use trial-and-error and use different programs to open the file until you get the correct one.

Determine the program that created the DAT file. Unlike most file types, DAT files can be created by virtually any program; as such, you'll need to know which program created the DAT file to figure out which program to use to open it. If you don't know which program was used to create the DAT file, you'll need to figure out which program to use before you can open the DAT file. Open the program. Click or double-click the app icon of the program that was used to create the DAT file. Click File. This is usually in the top-left corner of the program's window. A menu will appear. Click Open…. It's in the File menu. Doing so will usually open a File Explorer window. If you're using Microsoft Office, you must double-click This PC in the middle of the page after clicking Open to open the File Explorer window. Show all files in File Explorer. Click the file type box to the right of the "Name" text field, then click All Files in the resulting drop-down menu. This will allow the File Explorer to display all files, including your DAT file. Select the DAT file. Go to your DAT file's location, then click once the DAT file to select it. Click Open. It's in the bottom-right corner of the window. Doing so prompts the DAT file to begin opening in your program. Confirm that you want to view the file if prompted. In some cases, you'll receive a warning that the file's contents don't match its file extension (or similar). If so, click Yes or Open to prompt the DAT file to open. For example, opening an Excel-created DAT file in Excel may result in a prompt warning you that the file may be corrupted. You can click Yes to open the file anyway. Change the DAT file's extension if necessary. If you want to avoid having to drag the DAT file into its program every time you want to open it, you can change the file's extension. Keep in mind that you must know the exact extension used for the DAT file, as changing the extension to use even a slightly different format (e.g., MP4 instead of AVI) can result in the file breaking: Right-click the DAT file, then click Rename. Select the dat portion of the file's name. Replace the dat section with the file's extension. Determine the program that created the DAT file. Unlike most file types, DAT files can be created by virtually any program; as such, you'll need to know which program created the DAT file to figure out which program to use to open it. If you don't know which program was used to create the DAT file, you'll need to figure out which program to use before you can open the DAT file. Open the program. Click or double-click the app icon of the program that was used to create the DAT file. Drag the DAT file into the program's window. Click and drag the DAT file onto the program's window to do so. Since your Mac usually won't view the DAT file as readable, you can't typically open the DAT file by using the File > Open menu in your selected program. Drop the DAT file. This will attempt to open the DAT file in your program. Confirm that you want to view the file if prompted. In some cases, you'll receive a warning that the file's contents don't match its file extension (or similar). If so, click Yes or Open to prompt the DAT file to open. For example, opening an Excel-created DAT file in Excel may result in a prompt warning you that the file may be corrupted. You can click Yes to open the file anyway. Change the DAT file's extension if necessary. If you want to avoid having to drag the DAT file into its program every time you want to open it, you can change the file's extension. Keep in mind that you must know the exact extension used for the DAT file, as changing the extension to use even a slightly different format (e.g., MP4 instead of AVI) can result in the file breaking: Select the DAT file. Click File , then click Get Info in the drop-down menu. Click the triangle next to the "Name & Extension" category. Uncheck the "Hide extension" box if necessary. Replace the dat extension with your file's extension in the file's current name. Press ⏎ Return , then click Use.extension when prompted (e.g., for an XLSX document, you would click Use.xlsx here). Consider the context of the file. You may be able to figure out which program you're supposed to use to open the file based on where the file is stored or what the file is named. For example, if you found the DAT file inside of an "Adobe" folder, you can guess that an Adobe app is meant to open the DAT file. If the file is inside of a folder that contains other system files for your computer, it's probably best to leave the DAT file alone—it's probably used by your computer's built-in programs or features. Ask the file's creator. If you received the DAT file as an email message or from a download site, try contacting the person who sent or uploaded the DAT file and asking what program they used to create the file. This is unlikely to yield much if you're asking on a crowded forum or a file-sharing site, but you should be able to get an answer out of a coworker or a friend via email. Open the DAT file in a text editor. You may be able to use your computer's built-in text editor to view some (or all) of the DAT file's contents: Windows — Open Notepad, then drag-and-drop the DAT file into the Notepad window. Mac — Open TextEdit from your Mac's "Applications" folder, then drag-and-drop the DAT file into the TextEdit window. Look for information about the DAT file. Depending on the DAT file, you may be able to see a line or two of text that determines the type of software used to open the file. Even if you don't see a line about the specific program you need to use, you might find a line that indicates the type of file (e.g., video or text) that the DAT contents are meant to be. Try opening the DAT file in a general program. Some programs—such as VLC Media Player, iTunes, Preview, and Notepad++—can be used to open a large number of file types without changing the files' contents. For example, VLC Media Player can open most video file extensions, while you can download and use Notepad++ on Windows to open virtually any text-based file. Use trial-and-error. Unfortunately, if you haven't been able to determine the DAT file's origin program by this point, you'll have to start attempting to open the DAT file with different programs on your computer. You can do this by opening a program, dragging the DAT file onto the program's window, dropping it there, and waiting for the file to open. If the file opens in a recognizable format, you've found the correct program. If the program displays the DAT file as an incomprehensible jumble of characters or refuses to open the file, your selected program isn't the right program.

Determine the program that created the DAT file. Open the program. Click File. Click Open…. Show all files in File Explorer. Select the DAT file. Click Open. Confirm that you want to view the file if prompted. Change the DAT file's extension if necessary. Determine the program that created the DAT file. Open the program. Drag the DAT file into the program's window. Drop the DAT file. Confirm that you want to view the file if prompted. Change the DAT file's extension if necessary. Consider the context of the file. Ask the file's creator. Open the DAT file in a text editor. Look for information about the DAT file. Try opening the DAT file in a general program. Use trial-and-error.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Essay-Introduction

How to Write an Essay Introduction

Start your introduction with a relevant story, fact, or quote that will engage readers. Then, add 2-3 sentences of background information to give your essay context, and include important dates, locations, or historical moments where applicable. Finally, include your thesis statement, which is a specific, arguable, and provable statement that answers a question about your essay topic. For example, your thesis might read: "In the modern age, online dating apps like Tinder provide a wider variety of romantic options than young people have ever had before."

Identify your audience. The first sentence or two of your introduction should pull the reader in. You want anyone reading your essay to be fascinated, intrigued, or even outraged. You can't do this if you don't know who your likely readers are. If you're writing a paper for a class, don't automatically assume your instructor is your audience. If you write directly to your instructor, you'll end up glossing over some information that is necessary to show that you properly understand the subject of your essay. It can be helpful to reverse-engineer your audience based on the subject matter of your essay. For example, if you're writing an essay about a women's health issue for a women's studies class, you might identify your audience as young women within the age range most affected by the issue. Use the element of surprise. A startling or shocking statistic can grab your audience's attention by immediately teaching them something they didn't know. Having learned something new in the first sentence, people will be interested to see where you go next. For this hook to be effective, your fact needs to be sufficiently surprising. If you're not sure, test it on a few friends. If they react by expressing shock or surprise, you know you've got something good. Use a fact or statistic that sets up your essay, not something you'll be using as evidence to prove your thesis statement. Facts or statistics that demonstrate why your topic is important (or should be important) to your audience typically make good hooks. Tug at your reader's heart-strings. Particularly with personal or political essays, use your hook to get your reader emotionally involved in the subject matter of your story. You can do this by describing a related hardship or tragedy. For example, if you were writing an essay proposing a change to drunk driving laws, you might open with a story of how the life of a victim was changed forever after they were hit by a drunk driver. Offer a relevant example or anecdote. In your reading and research for your essay, you may have come across an entertaining or interesting anecdote that, while related, didn't really fit into the body of your essay. Such an anecdote can work great as a hook. For example, if you're writing an essay about a public figure, you might include an anecdote about an odd personal habit that cleverly relates back to your thesis statement. Particularly with less formal papers or personal essays, humorous anecdotes can be particularly effective hooks. Ask a thought-provoking question. If you're writing a persuasive essay, consider using a relevant question to draw your reader in and get them actively thinking about the subject of your essay. For example: "What would you do if you could play God for a day? That's exactly what the leaders of the tiny island nation of Guam tried to answer." If your essay prompt was a question, don't just repeat it in your paper. Make sure to come up with your own intriguing question. Avoid clichés and generalizations. Generalizations and clichés, even if presented to contrast with your point, won't help your essay. In most cases, they'll actually hurt by making you look like an unoriginal or lazy writer. Broad, sweeping generalizations may ring false with some readers and alienate them from the start. For example, "everyone wants someone to love" would alienate someone who identified as aromantic or asexual. Relate your hook to a larger topic. The next part of your introduction explains to your reader how that hook connects to the rest of your essay. Start with a broader, more general scope to explain your hook's relevance. Use an appropriate transitional word or phrase, such as "however" or "similarly," to move from your specific anecdote back out to a broader scope. For example, if you related a story about one individual, but your essay isn't about them, you can relate the hook back to the larger topic with a sentence like "Tommy wasn't alone, however. There were more than 200,000 dockworkers affected by that union strike." Provide necessary background information. While you're still keeping things relatively general, let your readers know anything that will be necessary for them to understand your main argument and the points you're making in your essay. For example, if your thesis relates to how blackface was used as a means of enforcing racial segregation, your introduction would describe what blackface performances were, and where and when they occurred. If you are writing an argumentative paper, make sure to explain both sides of the argument in a neutral or objective manner. Define key terms for the purposes of your essay. Your topic may include broad concepts or terms of art that you will need to define for your reader. Your introduction isn't the place to reiterate basic dictionary definitions. However, if there is a key term that may be interpreted differently depending on the context, let your readers know how you're using that term. Definitions would be particularly important if your essay is discussing a scientific topic, where some scientific terminology might not be understood by the average layperson. Definitions also come in handy in legal or political essays, where a term may have different meanings depending on the context in which they are used. Move from the general to the specific. It can be helpful to think of your introduction as an upside-down pyramid. With your hook sitting on top, your introduction welcomes your readers to the broader world in which your thesis resides. If you're using 2 or 3 sentences to describe the context for your thesis, try to make each sentence a bit more specific than the one before it. Draw your reader in gradually. For example, if you're writing an essay about drunk driving fatalities, you might start with an anecdote about a particular victim. Then you could provide national statistics, then narrow it down further to statistics for a particular gender or age group. Make your point. After you've set up the context within which you're making your argument, tell your readers the point of your essay. Use your thesis statement to directly communicate the unique point you will attempt to make through your essay. For example, a thesis for an essay on blackface performance might be "Because of its humiliating and demoralizing effect on African American slaves, blackface was used less as a comedy routine and more as a way of enforcing racial segregation." Be assertive and confident in your writing. Avoid including fluff such as "In this essay, I will attempt to show...." Instead, dive right in and make your claim, bold and proud. Your outline should be specific, unique, and provable. Through your essay, you'll make points that will show that your thesis statement is true – or at least persuade your readers that it's most likely true. Describe how you're going to prove your point. Round out your introduction by providing your readers with a basic roadmap of what you will say in your essay to support your thesis statement. In most cases, this doesn't need to be more than a sentence. If you've created an outline for your essay, this sentence is essentially the main subjects of each paragraph of the body of your essay. For example, if you're writing an essay about the unification of Italy, you might list 3 obstacles to unification. In the body of your essay, you would discuss details about how each of those obstacles was addressed or overcome. Instead of just listing all of your supporting points, sum them up by stating "how" or "why" your thesis is true. For example, instead of saying, "Phones should be banned from classrooms because they distract students, promote cheating, and make too much noise," you might say "Phones should be banned from classrooms because they act as an obstacle to learning." Transition smoothly into the body of your essay. In many cases, you'll find that you can move straight from your introduction to the first paragraph of the body. Some introductions, however, may require a short transitional sentence at the end to flow naturally into the rest of your essay. To figure out if you need a transition sentence, read the introduction and the first paragraph out loud. If you find yourself pausing or stumbling between the paragraphs, work in a transition to make the move smoother. You can also have friends or family members read your easy. If they feel it's choppy or jumps from the introduction into the essay, see what you can do to smooth it out. Read essays by other writers in your discipline. What constitutes a good introduction will vary widely depending on your subject matter. A suitable introduction in one academic discipline may not work as well in another. If you're writing your essay for a class assignment, ask your instructor for examples of well-written essays that you can look at. Take note of conventions that are commonly used by writers in that discipline. Make a brief outline of the essay based on the information presented in the introduction. Then look at that outline as you read the essay to see how the essay follows it to prove the writer's thesis statement. Keep your introduction short and simple. Generally, your introduction should be between 5 and 10 percent of the overall length of your essay. If you're writing a 10-page paper, your introduction should be approximately 1 page. For shorter essays under 1,000 words, keep your introduction to 1 paragraph, between 100 and 200 words. Always follow your instructor's guidelines for length. These rules can vary at times based on genre or form of writing. Write your introduction after you write your essay. Some writers prefer to write the body of the essay first, then go back and write the introduction. It's easier to present a summary of your essay when you've already written it. As you write your essay, you may want to jot down things you want to include in your introduction. For example, you may realize that you're using a particular term that you need to define in your introduction. Revise your introduction to fit your essay. If you wrote your introduction first, go back and make sure your introduction provides an accurate roadmap of your completed paper. Even if you wrote an outline, you may have deviated from your original plans. Delete any filler or unnecessary language. Given the shortness of the introduction, every sentence should be essential to your reader's understanding of your essay. Structure your introduction effectively. An essay introduction is fairly formulaic, and will have the same basic elements regardless of your subject matter or academic discipline. While it's short, it conveys a lot of information. The first sentence or two should be your hook, designed to grab your reader's attention and get them interested in reading your essay. The next couple of sentences create a bridge between your hook and the overall topic of the rest of your essay. End your introduction with your thesis statement and a list of the points you will make in your essay to support or prove your thesis statement.

Identify your audience. Use the element of surprise. Tug at your reader's heart-strings. Offer a relevant example or anecdote. Ask a thought-provoking question. Avoid clichés and generalizations. Relate your hook to a larger topic. Provide necessary background information. Define key terms for the purposes of your essay. Move from the general to the specific. Make your point. Describe how you're going to prove your point. Transition smoothly into the body of your essay. Read essays by other writers in your discipline. Keep your introduction short and simple. Write your introduction after you write your essay. Revise your introduction to fit your essay. Structure your introduction effectively.

https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Bathroom-Tile

How to Clean Bathroom Tile

To clean bathroom tile, try using white vinegar for an easy, cost-effective solution. Just mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and spray the mixture onto the tile. Let it sit for at least 1 minute, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. For stubborn spots, use a toothbrush to scrub the mixture into the tile. You can also use diluted bleach to clean bathroom tiles. Bleach will disinfect the tiles and whiten the grout between them. Mix ¼ cup (60 mL) of bleach with ¾ cup (175 mL) of water in a spray bottle, and spray it on the tile. Make sure the bathroom is well-ventilated, and never mix bleach with ammonia since it can put off toxic fumes. Leave the bleach mixture on for 1 hour, then rinse it off with water. Try running the shower on a high temperature before you start cleaning, which will open up the pores in the tile so it's easier to clean.

Use vinegar to clean the tile. Mixing water and distilled white (or cleaning) vinegar in equal amounts produces an effective cleaning agent. For instance, you might mix five tablespoons of vinegar with five tablespoons of water. Dab a rag in the mixture and scrub the tile until clean. Wipe dry, or allow to air dry. Apply lemon juice to the tile. Lemon juice is slightly acidic, and therefore effective as a tile-cleaning agent. Fill a spray bottle with lemon juice and spray the juice onto the tile directly, then wipe it away with a damp sponge. Alternately, dampen a sponge with some lemon juice directly, then use it to wipe the tile down. Rinse the tile off with a sponge or cloth dipped in warm water. If you wish, you could sprinkle your bathroom tile with a thin coat of baking soda before spraying it with lemon juice or wiping it down with a lemon juice-soaked sponge. Spray your tile with a cleaning product. There are a variety of all-purpose cleaning products available that can effectively clean your bathroom tile. While specific directions for use vary with the product you've decided to use, you can generally start by spraying the tile with a light coating of the spray you've decided to use, then wiping it down with a clean cloth. Powdered cleaning products might need to be mixed with water before they can be used. Before you begin, you might want to close the door and windows to your bathroom and run the hot water in your tub (with the drain stopper engaged) for several minutes. This will build up the steam in your bathroom and make cleaning easier. Use baking soda cleaner. Mix ½ cup (90 grams) of baking soda, one teaspoon of liquid dish soap, and ¼ cup (63 milliliters) of hydrogen peroxide. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on the bathroom tiles you wish to clean. Wait 10 minutes, then wipe the tiles off with a damp sponge or rag. Mix water and bleach to clean tile. Combining bleach and water in a 1:3 ratio will yield an effective tile-cleaning solution. For instance, you might mix five tablespoons of bleach with 15 tablespoons of water. Fill a spray bottle with this solution and spray it on the bathroom tile you wish to clean. Rinse the tiles clean with a cloth dampened with warm water. Bleach exudes noxious fumes. Open doors and windows before you get started to prevent the fumes from building up. Bleach can also irritate the skin, so wear thick rubber cleaning gloves when cleaning your bathroom tile with it. Utilize ammonia. Combine ammonia and water in a 1:2 ratio. For instance, you could mix 10 tablespoons of water with five tablespoons of ammonia. Fill a spray bottle with the mixture and apply it to the bathroom tile you want to clean. Let it sit on the bathroom tile for about 60 minutes, then wipe it away with a clean, damp cloth. Ammonia, like bleach, exudes noxious fumes. Ventilate the bathroom you're cleaning by opening doors and windows. Additionally, ammonia can irritate the skin, so wear thick rubber cleaning gloves when cleaning your bathroom tile with it. Use a steam cleaner. A steam cleaner is a cleaning machine that uses steam to clean tile floors and other flat surfaces. Generally, steam cleaners work the same way that vacuum cleaners do – simply turn the machine on and push it along the surface of your bathroom tile. You'll probably have to fill the steam cleaner with water before using it. Consult manufacturer directions before using your steam cleaner. You may be able to rent a steam cleaner at your local hardware or home goods store. Make a baking soda paste. Combine baking soda and water in equal amounts. For instance, you might mix three tablespoons of water and three tablespoons of baking soda. Use a stiff-bristled brush to wipe the paste onto the grout. Work the paste into the grout, then wipe it away using a damp cloth or sponge. Create a salt and vinegar cleaning agent. Combine one cup (237 milliliters) of plain white vinegar, one cup (273 grams) of salt, two tablespoons of liquid dish soap, and one cup (237 milliliters) of hot water. Dab a sponge in this mixture and wipe your bathroom grout with it. Wait ten minutes, then wipe the grout with a clean, damp sponge. Scrub the grout with bleach. Dip a stiff-bristled grout brush in bleach. Scrub the along the grout using the brush. After scrubbing, rinse the grout with a clean, damp cloth. Throw open the windows and door before you get started in order to ventilate the noxious bleach fumes. Use a cotton ball to clean corner tiles. Cleaning corner tiles with a regular sponge or brush can be difficult. Instead, soak a cotton ball in the tile cleaner of your choice and press it into the corner you wish to clean. Wait several minutes then remove the cotton ball. Wipe the corner with a damp rag to remove any excess grime. Alternately, you could use an old toothbrush to scrub the corner area clean. Apply a coat of wax to ceramic tile. Once annually, apply a coat of car wax after cleaning bathroom tile. This will cause water to roll off and prevent the growth of mildew. Plus, it gives your bathroom tile a nice shine. While the exact technique for applying the car wax varies with the specific wax you've chosen to utilize, you can generally dab a clean cloth in the tub of wax, then rub it in a thin layer across the bathroom tiles after cleaning. After applying the wax to bathroom floor tile, buff it down to prevent the bathroom tile from being too slippery. Clean floor tile last. If you're cleaning the whole bathroom as opposed to just the bathroom tile, you should clean the floor tile last. This will prevent you from wiping dust and debris from shelves and countertops onto the floor after you've just cleaned it, thereby soiling the bathroom tile you just worked so hard to get clean.

Use vinegar to clean the tile. Apply lemon juice to the tile. Spray your tile with a cleaning product. Use baking soda cleaner. Mix water and bleach to clean tile. Utilize ammonia. Use a steam cleaner. Make a baking soda paste. Create a salt and vinegar cleaning agent. Scrub the grout with bleach. Use a cotton ball to clean corner tiles. Apply a coat of wax to ceramic tile. Clean floor tile last.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Messy-Bun-With-Extremely-Long-Hair

How to Make a Messy Bun With Extremely Long Hair

You can give yourself a messy bun even if you have extremely long hair. Start by brushing out your hair to remove any tangles. Pull your hair through a hair tie into a loop the size of an apple. Then, twist the loose hair around the loop and tuck the ends into the hair tie. If your hair is too heavy, you can add a second hair tie to keep your bun in place. You can also make a messy bun by twisting your ponytail. Start by creating a high ponytail, then twist the ends until they curl up against your head. Then, secure the bun with another hair tie. Lightly gel up the edges near the hair tie, and pull out a few small strands of hair to make it messier.

Brush your hair out to make it detangled (wash it for better results). Put your hair in a bun the size of an apple (depends on how long your hair is). Twist the rest around the bun until the last strand of hair (hide the wrapping a little). Tuck the tip of your hair in your hair tie (you could just put another hair band on to support your overall look in general). Finishedif (WH.video)WH.video.add(document.getElementById('mvid-c93865c68a')); Lightly gel up the tips and middle section of your hair. This helps the strands stick together and keep your bun from collapsing. Put your hair in a ponytail. Place your hand where the ponytail holder is up on your head. This secures it in place. Take your other hand and twist the ponytail until it twirls up against your head. Secure it with a hair tie. Lightly gel up the edges near the hair tie with gel. Carefully pull out small strands of hair. You may set the look with hairspray. Finished.

Brush your hair out to make it detangled (wash it for better results). Put your hair in a bun the size of an apple (depends on how long your hair is). Twist the rest around the bun until the last strand of hair (hide the wrapping a little). Tuck the tip of your hair in your hair tie (you could just put another hair band on to support your overall look in general). Finishedif (WH.video)WH.video.add(document.getElementById('mvid-c93865c68a')); Lightly gel up the tips and middle section of your hair. Put your hair in a ponytail. Place your hand where the ponytail holder is up on your head. Take your other hand and twist the ponytail until it twirls up against your head. Secure it with a hair tie. Lightly gel up the edges near the hair tie with gel. Carefully pull out small strands of hair. Finished.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Ready-for-High-School

How to Get Ready for High School

To get ready for high school, visit your school early if possible so you can get an idea of where your classes and locker are without the stress of everyone else being around. During summer activities and orientation, chat with other freshmen since they may end up being your classmates, and it'll be nice to have some friendly faces to recognize. Before your classes start, try and set a healthy routine of at least 8 hours of sleep and a healthy diet of three meals a day so you'll have the right mood and energy to be successful. You can also grab a planner and set up your desk at home with all the supplies you might need so you're already ready to go when you get your first assignments.

Tour the school. You may be able to visit your high school early to get a sense of where your classes are without the stress of all the other kids there. Ask your parents if they can schedule a tour earlier than the regular orientation day so you can check everything out at your own pace. If possible, have the schedule of your classes with you so you can find your classes in relation to everything like the cafeteria, your locker, bathrooms, etc. See how long it takes to get everywhere. Most schools will provide an orientation day so don't worry if you aren't able to visit your school earlier than the first day. Make sure to pay attention and ask any questions during orientation to make your transition easier. Meet your teachers and school counselors. If you have a chance to meet your school counselors and teachers before the start of class you will be more likely to stand out. See if they are running any office hours or extra programs. You may also see if you can contact them via email so that the first day of school you will already have established some type of rapport. When you meet your school counselors and teachers in the first week, make sure to communicate any anxieties or simply ask questions about classes and how you should approach the upcoming school year. Remember that they have dealt with this many times before and will be happy to help an enthusiast student. Get a sense of your classes. You may be able to take electives for the first year so speak to your teachers to get a sense of the subjects and whether or not you will enjoy taking one class over another. The more informed you are, the happier you'll be in the long run. Ask your teachers or principal if there is a suggested reading list or any topics to research to give you a head start in the summer. Check out clubs and sports teams. Ask if there is a list of clubs and sports teams that you are able to join. You may be able to reach out to coaches or the head of a club to get a sense of what's involved so you know whether you can handle an extracurricular activity in addition to your school work. Talk to coaches for any advice on how to train over the summer so that you will be prepared for any tryouts. You may need to practice your shooting or dribbling if you want to join the basketball team for example. Sports teams may have summer workouts or practices so you may contact a coach or principal to see if you can check it out. Or you may need to practice your trombone if you want to get into band. Like musicals and plays, there won't be a lot of sports played in the summer so you may have to check these out earlier in the year. See how much school spirit there is and don't be afraid to cheer on your high school. Have fun and see whether this is something you'd like to be a part of. Attend high school plays and musical productions. Get a sense of what's involved in a production and how involved the audience is. There probably won't be any plays or musicals in the summer so you may have to check these out earlier in the year. Be friendly to other freshmen. Whether you meet people during orientation or during summer activities, be sure to always be friendly and say hi. You never know who will be your classmate or friends from other clubs and sports teams. Take every opportunity you can to chat to people, freshman or upperclassmen, because they may know some information about classes, schools, or teams from their siblings or friends and can give you their perspective. It is also good to relate to others who are going through the same thing you are to relieve some of your stress and anxiety. Write a list of questions. Whether you have an orientation day or not, come up with a list of questions that will help you ease into high school. Whether it be related to classes, dress code, or how to make friends, write everything down and ask the appropriate people. You may ask your parents or siblings to help you come up with your list to make sure you don't miss anything. Read school publications. Your high school may put out a newspaper, yearbook, newsletter or literary magazine. See if you can get a hold of last year's publications so you can get a sense of a typical school year. You may ask to contact the editor if you'd like to be involved next year in the publication. Check the school website. Your high school website is sure to provide valuable information about student life, teachers, locations, and anything else you may have questions about. There is also often a helpful directory so that you may contact people directly if you have specific questions. Check if your school has a social media profile or if certain clubs or sports teams do. This may be an easier way to get a sense of school life because other students will most likely post on these profile pages. Talk to older siblings, cousins, or friends. You may have someone in your life who has gone through the exact same thing you are about to so don't be afraid to ask about his perspective. Get insider information about teachers, homework, or activities from people who still have it fresh in their mind. Ask questions like “who was your toughest teacher”, “what's the funnest elective”, “what's the quickest way to get to the gym to the cafeteria”, and “what's the best thing to order for lunch?” Find out who specifically deals with freshman. Your school will already have a system in place to help you adjust. Find out which counselors, teachers, and administrators are trained specifically to help you. You will most likely meet them during orientation so introduce yourself. Make sure to take note of what each person specializes in, there may be an administrator who helps with electives and a counselor that helps with stress and dealing with your workload. Find peer mentoring programs. Your school may offer mentoring programs where older students offer support and advice. Sign up if necessary or ask teachers, counselors, or administrators to help you find someone on your own if there isn't a program currently set up. Make sure your mentor is someone you get along with. Find someone new if you feel like your personalities clash. Speak directly to teachers. Speak to teachers outside of class to get personal advice tailored to you. Let teachers know ahead of time where you think you might need improvement. If you don't know how you can improve yourself, ask about the class requirements and ask additional questions as you begin to get a sense of the workload. Introduce your parents to your teachers and counselors. While there may already be scheduled parent-teacher meetings, take any opportunity you can to introduce your parents to teachers and counselors so they know they can reach out to each other when you are having problems or have any questions. For example, you may ask the music teacher to help set up a practice schedule and a meeting with the school band leader. Ask your parents for help to decide courses. This may be the first time that you are able to choose electives. Getting your parents involved will give you support and help establish a team atmosphere. They may help find valuable information that you can't find on your own. Talk to your parents about clubs and activities. Your parents may not want you to join certain sports or activities for safety reasons or they may cost too much. Keeping them in the loop will help you find good alternatives that suit your schedule, budget, and interests. Remember that extra activities may mean that your parents may have to save money or change their schedule to help accommodate yours so take that into consideration when you make the decision together. They may also be considered that it takes time away from you other school and family responsibilities so come up with a reasonable schedule together. Introduce your parents to other parents. The more parents and students your parents know, the stronger your support system will be. Your parents will be able to pool resources like carpooling, activities, or study groups. This is also a chance for your parents to form their own support group. Talking to parents of other freshman can help them ease any anxiety. Do one thing well. High school is the beginning of finding yourself. Whether it's sports, academics, or art, find something that you are passionate about and begin to focus on it. Don't neglect other aspects of your school life, but competence and accomplishment can strengthen your self-esteem. Avoid neglecting your sleep. Make sure to get the appropriate amount of sleep every night. Try to sleep at least eight hours, maintaining the same bedtime and start time every day. Having a set routine and healthy sleeping habits can prepare you for the rest of your life. It may be difficult to get the full night's sleep when you have an exam or project due so make sure to plan ahead and focus on good study habits to keep your schedule consistent. Focus and concentrate. Learn how to keep your concentration by only focusing on one thing at a time. Reading is a great way to develop these skills. Turn off your tv and computer screens and learn how to focus so that studying and working become easier. Find a quiet place within or near your home. Dedicate this area as your “study space”, and schedule in the same time every day to homework or study so that it becomes a habit. Eat a healthy diet. You don't always have to eat salad but avoid junk food as much as possible and make sure to eat three meals a day. You'll be surprised how your mood and energy will improved if you avoid things with too much sugar or heavy fried foods. Talk to your parents or cafeteria workers about healthy choices. Grow from failure. Being frustrated and failing to meet certain standards are part of growth. Remember to learn from your mistakes and take note of how you can improve for the next time. You may be tested both in and out of the classroom so learn every time things don't go according to plan. Take care of your body. Know that you're body is perfect no matter what anyone says. Take care of yourself and give yourself time recover when you need it. Respect yourself and don't let anyone try to shame you. Talk to your teachers, counselor, administrator, and parents if anyone is bullying you or making you uncomfortable about your body. Get organized. Learn how to manage your time with a scheduler. Organize your workspace at home and at school with every bit of supplies you think you may need, so that you'll be prepared to complete any assignment at all times. If you struggle with being on time or keeping organized, ask your parents and teachers for help. Be a good person. Treat others how you want to be treated and stand up for what you believe in. Don't give in to temptations of cheating or peer pressure. Whether you talk to a student sitting alone in the cafeteria or simply hold the door open for someone, there is always an opportunity to do good. Learn how to identify meaning. High school will teach you about symbolism so be prepared to look for deeper meaning in what you read. Learn about tone and how language is used. Reason what a writer is saying. You will need to learn how to form an argument and provide enough evidence for what you think a writer might be saying. Be prepared to write persuasively. Connect ideas and information. Learn how to articulate and write in an effective way. You want your ideas to make sense and for the information to be clear. Analyze information. You will be provided with a lot of information about a single topic and you will need to know how to pick out the most important information. You will also need to know how to use different resources like books, videos, and online research. Develop your vocabulary. Your assigned reading will start to become more difficult so learn more words and phrases to help you express yourself. Write down new vocabulary words and make sure you understand what you're reading. Discuss new ideas in class or with your teacher to be sure that you understand them. Make sure you understand new figures of speech. Learn rational numbers. You will begin to learn irrational numbers: numbers that can be written as decimals, numerals, or fractions. You can quiz yourself on converting them to each. Know perfect squares. Figuring out a square root of a perfect square begins in high school. If you multiply a number by itself then you create a perfect square. A square root is the original number. Familiarize yourself with graphs. High school will teach you how to solve and graph equations. Be prepared to learn how read a graph. Understand what a function is. High school mathematics is the start of learning algebra. A function is the relationship of a variable to another variable in algebra. It is the rule that can give the value of a missing variable. For example 2x=y is a function where x and y are variables. Determine sizes of shapes. You will learn how to calculate sizes of shapes using different equations like Pythagorean theorem (a2 + b2 = c2) to find the lengths of the sides of right angle triangles. You will also learn how to find the volume of cones, spheres, and cylinders. Understand how math applies to the real world. You will begin to learn how to solve word problems and how to apply math to solving real world scenarios. Think about the importance of your future. Remember that high-school is vital in getting into college. Talk to your family, teachers, and counselors about where you see yourself in the future and whether you want to pursue a post-secondary education. College may be attainable with the right guidance but you have to receive it early and often. Make sure you get your support system involved in the decision making process to make sure you make the best decision for you. Start saving. College can be very expensive especially if you choose to move away. Make sure you have a list of colleges that you want to attend and calculate how much it will be to attend four years including the cost of living. Talk to your parents and teachers to help you figure out an effective saving plan. Challenge yourself. Take classes that interest you and that will help you in the long term. There may be certain prerequisites that you need to take in high school in order to take certain classes in college. Talk to your teachers and counselors to chart out an appropriate class list. Research beneficial programs. Ask your parents, family members, and teachers to help research and chart out any extra-curricular activities or programs that can help benefit your college application. There may be special financial aid programs, academic competitions, or scholarships that you may need to apply early for. Develop strong habits. High school is the time to develop habits like strong work ethic and focus. These will be essential in succeeding in college. You should also develop your social skills along with your study habits to keep you well-rounded. Find help for standardized tests. Colleges may require standardized testing for you to get in. If you find difficulty in passing the SAT, ACT, or any other test, get help from your teachers, a tutor, mentor, or counselor. It's never too early to prepare yourself. Get involved. Explore your interests and learn new things by becoming involved in community and school programs. Not only will this look good on college applications but it will also make you a well-rounded individual. Talk to adults about careers. Talk to family members, teachers, librarians, and counselors about different careers so you can carve out the correct post-secondary path. There may be certain institutions that specialize in your interests. Ask questions like “what do you like about your job?” or “what type of classes did you need to take to get into your career?”

Tour the school. Meet your teachers and school counselors. Get a sense of your classes. Check out clubs and sports teams. Attend high school plays and musical productions. Be friendly to other freshmen. Write a list of questions. Read school publications. Check the school website. Talk to older siblings, cousins, or friends. Find out who specifically deals with freshman. Find peer mentoring programs. Speak directly to teachers. Ask your parents for help to decide courses. Talk to your parents about clubs and activities. Introduce your parents to other parents. Do one thing well. Avoid neglecting your sleep. Focus and concentrate. Eat a healthy diet. Grow from failure. Take care of your body. Get organized. Be a good person. Learn how to identify meaning. Reason what a writer is saying. Connect ideas and information. Analyze information. Develop your vocabulary. Learn rational numbers. Know perfect squares. Familiarize yourself with graphs. Understand what a function is. Determine sizes of shapes. Understand how math applies to the real world. Think about the importance of your future. Start saving. Challenge yourself. Research beneficial programs. Develop strong habits. Find help for standardized tests. Get involved. Talk to adults about careers.

https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-a-Japanese-Bobtail

How to Take Care of a Japanese Bobtail

To take care of a Japanese bobtail cat, feed it once or twice each day, making sure to give it the recommended amount since this breed is known to overeat. When choosing your cat's food, look for high-quality brands that have meat, meat byproducts, or seafood listed as the first few ingredients. Additionally, spend time each day playing with your bobtail to make sure it gets enough attention and exercise. You should also place its litter box where your cat will want to use it, like a quiet, low traffic area that's far away from its food and water bowls.

Take your cat to the vet. When you first get your cat, take it to the vet, especially if it's a kitten. Bring any medical information and documentation provided by the breeder or previous owner. Your vet will evaluate your cat's health and arrange a schedule with you to ensure it receives regular checkups. Kittens should receive vaccinations at 6, 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age. Booster shots may be needed every year for adult cats. Keep your cat indoors. Limit the amount of time your Japanese Bobtail spends outside. This will protect it from being struck by a vehicle, contracting an illness, or becoming the victim of other cats or animals who might hurt it. Interact with your cat. Japanese Bobtails are generally self-sufficient, but they do need attention and opportunities to play. Spend time each day rolling a ping-pong or tennis ball across the floor near your cat. It will have fun chasing the ball. Wave a teaser toy – a stick with a string on the end connected to a stuffed mouse or similar toy – near your cat, then lift it just out of reach when your cat goes to swing at it. Your cat will derive great amusement from this activity. Make sure your cat has a scratching post to prevent them from scratching up your furniture. Cats often enjoy chasing laser pointers. Point the laser at a wall, and move it around as your cat chases the light. Do not shine the laser in your cat's eyes or human eyes. Look for obesity. Japanese Bobtails are generally free of any health issues. However, like most house cats, they are at risk for obesity once they ease into domestic life. Manage your cat's diet and food portions to ensure it stays lean. If your cat starts getting a bit pudgier, talk to your vet about developing a fitness plan. Feed your cat an appropriate amount of food. Japanese Bobtails require about 80 calories of food per kilogram (two pounds three ounces) of bodyweight per day. In other words, if your cat weighs three kilos (6.6 pounds), it will require around 240 calories of food daily. Japanese Bobtails are known to overeat, so manage your cat's caloric intake carefully. Feed your cat once or twice each day. This will make sure your cat has the right amount of food when they are hungry without over or underfeeding them. Provide your cat with a variety of food. Like people, different cats have different tastes. Some will enjoy tuna flavored food, while others will like chicken flavored food. Some will enjoy dry food, while others enjoy wet food. By providing your cat with a variety of dining options, you'll be able to ensure it gets to experience a range of different textures and flavors. Giving your cat a variety of food will also ensure that it is less likely to be a finicky eater. Offer your cat a variety of foods and observe it while it eats. When you've found a food that your cat consumes with gusto, buy it frequently. There are three main types of food: dry food, semi-moist food, and wet (canned) food. Any of these could be acceptable as long as it is nutritionally balanced. Japanese Bobtails don't have any specific dietary needs, but they do prefer fish. Try a food that contains fish to keep your cat happy at mealtime. Choose a high-quality food. To identify a high-quality cat food, check the ingredients label. The best foods will have meat, meat byproducts, or seafood listed among their main ingredients. High-quality foods should also bear a seal of approval from an organization like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). While you may want to attempt to make your own cat food at home, it is best to buy commercial food. Commercial cat food is specially balanced to provide all of the correct vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that cats need to survive. If you make food at home without the guidance of an animal nutritionist, your cat may suffer from health problems and deficiencies. Cats are obligate carnivores. This means that they must eat meat to get all of their nutrients. Change your cat’s water regularly. Each day, empty your cat's water dish and fill it with new water. This will help with digestion, circulation of the blood, and general good health. Use ceramic, glass, or stainless steel bowls. These are heavier and prevent spillage, and they also prevent the water from absorbing chemicals that may have been used to treat plastic water dishes. Wash the cat's dish every now and then to prevent the build-up of bacteria in the bowl. Do not give your cat milk instead of water. Place the litterbox somewhere your cat will want to use it. Japanese Bobtail cats will be disinclined to use a litterbox that is next to a noisy appliance like a washer, dryer, or furnace. Likewise, your cat will not want to use a litterbox near its food and water bowls. Finally, don't place a litterbox in a corner of the room, where your Japanese Bobtail cat might feel trapped and vulnerable while voiding. Empty the litterbox. Your Japanese Bobtail's litterbox should be cleaned at least once each day. Use a litterbox scoop to remove the feces and place it in a plastic bag. Tie the bag off and throw it away. Clean the litterbox. Your Japanese Bobtail's litterbox should be cleaned at least once each week, or whenever you notice the litter is damp or stinky. Dump the old litter into a trash can. Use a sponge dipped in warm water and nontoxic dish soap to wipe the inside of the litterbox out. Rinse the box out and let it air dry. Add new litter to the box and replace it when it is dry. You might find it most convenient to wash the litterbox outside. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and a facemask before cleaning the litterbox. Don't add too much litter. Most cats don't like using litter that is more than two inches deep. Choose the right time to groom your cat. Your cat will be more willing to accept a grooming session when it is relaxed and happy. You might choose, for instance, to groom your cat right after you've finished playing with it. Check your cat’s skin and coat. Before you start brushing, conduct a visual inspection of your cat's skin and coat. If you notice any wounds, bald patches, redness, lumps, masses, or other signs of irritation, contact your vet. Start with the flea comb. The flea comb is a fine-toothed comb that helps you locate flea excreta – tiny comma-shaped black flecks that will turn red when mixed with a drop of water. If you find flea excreta using the flea comb, contact your vet so they can recommend a flea control program for you and your Japanese Bobtail. Use the flea comb once each week. Loosen tangles. If you see any knots or tangles in your cat's fur, rake your fingers carefully through the fur to loosen them. Push your fingers along the cat's fur toward its head to better detect and loosen any tangles or loose fur. Comb your cat. Use a metal comb to brush your cat from its head to its tail. Use short strokes, focusing on one area at a time. Combing will prevent tangled fur and limit the amount of fur the cat sheds around your home. Generally, you should brush your Japanese Bobtail once each week. Brush it more often during the spring and fall, when it sheds more often. Choose the right time and place to trim nails. When trying to trim your Japanese Bobtail's nails, it will be more cooperative if you choose a relaxing environment. Find a well-lit, quiet room where you and your cat can both be at ease. Additionally, trim your cat's nails when it is relaxed. Select a time close to your cat's bedtime to trim its nails. Massage your cat’s paws. With your cat in your lap, take one of its paws and give it a gentle squeeze. If the cat pulls its paw away, don't let go. Follow the cat's motion, but allow your cat to move the paw back and forth. Give one toe a slight squeeze when your cat is still. When your Japanese Bobtail extends it nail, give it a treat. Repeat daily until you've seen all ten of your cat's nails. Familiarize your cat with the sound of the clippers. Sit near your cat with the clippers and a piece of uncooked spaghetti. Massage your Japanese Bobtail's toe until a nail extends. Continue holding the paw with one hand, and clip the uncooked spaghetti with the clippers in your other hand. Give your cat a treat. Repeat with all toes. Be careful not to cut the quick. The quick is the pink part of your cat's nails. It contains a delicate network of blood vessels. Only cut the white portion of your Japanese Bobtail's nails. If you cut your cat's quick, apply light pressure to the tip of the claw. Dip it in cornstarch or styptic powder as soon as possible. Do not squeeze the whole paw, as this will only increase blood loss. Clip the cat’s toes. Sit your Japanese Bobtail in your lap facing away from you. Use the clippers to clip the sharp white part of the nail. Give your pet a treat as soon as you clip the nail. Clip your cat's nails two to four times monthly. Don't trim all your cat's nails at once. Work on one or two paws per session. Don't try to rush the process. If your cat is agitated, cut the session short or give it a treat. Brush your cat’s teeth. Use a soft infant toothbrush, a short-bristled finger brush designed for pet teeth, or even a soft cloth wrapped around your finger to clean your cat's teeth. When first introducing your cat to the toothbrush, just dip it in a bit of chicken broth and rub the cat's teeth for a short time. When your cat has grown accustomed to this process, add toothpaste to the brush and brush the outer faces of your cat's teeth using gentle circular motions. Ideally, you will brush your Japanese Bobtail's teeth daily. Less frequent brushing is also acceptable but not preferred. Do not use human toothpaste to brush your cat's teeth. Instead, use a specially formulated feline toothpaste in a flavor that your cat seems to prefer. Ask your vet to demonstrate how to properly brush your cat's teeth before trying it yourself. Check the cat’s ears. Japanese Bobtail cats don't need their ears cleaned regularly, but you should check them from time to time. If the ears look dirty, wipe them with a cotton ball or a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of half water and half cider vinegar. Do not use cotton swabs on your cat's ears, as you could hurt it.

Take your cat to the vet. Keep your cat indoors. Interact with your cat. Look for obesity. Feed your cat an appropriate amount of food. Provide your cat with a variety of food. Choose a high-quality food. Change your cat’s water regularly. Place the litterbox somewhere your cat will want to use it. Empty the litterbox. Clean the litterbox. Choose the right time to groom your cat. Check your cat’s skin and coat. Start with the flea comb. Loosen tangles. Comb your cat. Choose the right time and place to trim nails. Massage your cat’s paws. Familiarize your cat with the sound of the clippers. Be careful not to cut the quick. Clip the cat’s toes. Brush your cat’s teeth. Check the cat’s ears.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Smoke-Bomb

How to Make a Smoke Bomb

To make a smoke bomb, you'll need to gather 3 ping pong balls, a pencil, scissors, and tin foil. To start, carefully pierce a hole in 1 ping pong ball with a pencil. Then, using scissors, cut up the other 2 ping pong balls into little pieces, so they're small enough to fit through the hole of the first ball. Once you've cut up the pieces, stuff them into the first ping pong ball until its completely full. Then, insert the pencil into the first ping pong ball and wrap tin foil around the whole thing. Once it's wrapped in foil, carefully take the pencil out without disturbing the tin shape. To light your smoke bomb, first move outside in an open area where you won't breathe in the smoke. Then, light a flame underneath the foil wrapped ping pong ball. Once it's lit, throw it on the ground and step back to watch it at a safe distance.

Gather 3-4 celluloid ping-pong balls. For this method, you'll need a few ping-pong balls. These balls are made of nitrocellulose, which is a highly flammable compound used in celluloid. One ball will make up the actual smoke bomb, while the others will be cut up and placed inside of the first ping-pong ball to add more smoke when you set it off. Choose balls that are the same color, because the color you choose will end up being the color of the smoke. It's important that you use celluloid ping-pong balls instead of plastic ones. You can tell the difference between the two because the plastic balls are shiny and bend easily. The celluloid ping-pong balls are typically more durable and matte. Pierce a hole in one of the balls using a knife or screwdriver. Take one of your ping-pong balls and poke a hole in it. To do this, firmly hold the ball between your thumb and index finger on a flat surface. Take a small screwdriver or knife and apply pressure until it pokes through. The hole will be used to fit the other ping-pong balls. Cut the remaining ping-pong balls into small pieces and put them in the hole of the first ball. Use a pair of sharp scissors to cut the remaining ping-pong balls into small pieces. You may need to pierce the balls with a knife or screwdriver first in order to make a starting point for cutting. The pieces should be small enough to fit into the hole of the first ping-pong ball. Fill the ball with the pieces until it is completely full. Stick the sharp end of the pencil in the hole and wrap foil around it. Get your pencil and stick the sharpened side inside the hole of the ping-pong ball you just created. It may not fit all the way in because you just filled the hole, so just make sure the tip of the pencil is touching the outside of the ball. Then, get a piece of foil that is at least 6 by 6 inches (15 by 15 cm). Put the ping-pong ball in the center of the foil square, and wrap the foil tightly around the ball and pencil until it takes its shape. The only purpose of the pencil in this step is to create a mold for the foil, so do not completely cover it. Make sure there is a hole in the foil at the end of the pencil so you can take it out when you're finished. Take the pencil out of the foil wrap. Grab the pencil by the eraser and carefully pull it out of the foil. When you take it out, make sure the shape of the foil stays intact. This shape will leave a chimney for the smoke to travel up through the aluminum foil when you light the smoke bomb. Take the smoke bomb outside in an open area. Smoke bombs should never be used indoors due to the risk of fire and smoke inhalation. Nitrocellulose, the chemical inside of ping-pong balls, is mildly toxic when inhaled. Take your finished smoke bomb outdoors and put it in the grass in an open area away from other people and pets. Light a flame underneath the foil-wrapped ping-pong ball. Hold the smoke bomb at the top, and then use a lighter to light a flame right under the ping-pong ball. The smoke will start to pour out of the hole in the ball and out through the chimney left by the pencil. Toss the bomb and watch it smoke. Once it starts to smoke, toss or place the smoke bomb on the ground and quickly move away from it. Stand a few feet back to avoid breathing in the toxic smoke. If you start to smell something funny, stand back a little farther. Gather your supplies and put on your safety gear. Smoke bombs can be made with a simple concoction of potassium nitrate and sugar. By mixing these ingredients and melting them together, you create a flammable product that produces whirls of smoke when you light it on fire. You'll also need a cast iron skillet and some baking soda. Adding 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of baking soda will make the smoke burn a little bit longer. For safety gear, get a pair of latex gloves, goggles, and a filter mask to protect yourself from the smoke. Use an old cast iron skillet that you don't plan on cooking with in the future. The potassium nitrate mixture may ruin it. You can get potassium nitrate, also called saltpeter, at your local garden store or online. It's important to wear your safety gear. Contact with potassium nitrate can cause eye and skin irritation. Breathing it in can irritate your nose and cause sneezing and coughing. Cover one end of the toilet paper tube with duct tape. Before you make your potassium nitrate mixture, you'll need to prepare your cardboard tube. Put 2 pieces of tape on top of the hole so it's completely covered. Then secure those two pieces with a longer tape strip around the base. This will ensure that the smoke bomb mixture won't leak out when you pour it in the tube. Combine potassium nitrate and white sugar in a cast iron skillet. Measure out 3 tablespoons (44 mL) of potassium nitrate and 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of sugar. Pour it in your cast iron skillet and mix it together with a spoon until they are completely combined. Heat the pan on the stove over medium-low heat for 15 minutes. While the mixture is heating up, stir it constantly until it's completely melted. As the sugar caramelizes, it should take on a brown or black color and form a thick, gooey texture like melted caramel. Do not overcook the mixture and take care not to set it on fire. If it starts to smoke in the pan, turn the heat down immediately. Add one spoonful of baking soda if you want the bomb to burn slowly. This step is optional, but you can add a spoonful of baking soda before you take it off the heat. The baking soda will moderate the reaction, making the smoke bomb burn a little bit slower. Pour the mixture into the cardboard tube. Turn off the heat on the stove and use a spoon to get as much of the mixture as you can into the tube. Work quickly because the mixture is going to harden. To make it easier to pour, you can use a funnel. Or you can place the mixture in a small plastic bag, cut off one corner, and squeeze it into the tube. When you're pouring the mixture in the cardboard tube, make sure to pack it tightly. If it's not, the smoke won't burn smoothly when you light the smoke bomb. Insert a visco fuse into the tube while the mixture is still soft. Visco is a type of fuse typically used for consumer fireworks. Cut at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) of the fuse and then stick one end into the middle of the tube through the mixture. Make sure at least 1 in (2.5 cm) of the fuse is sticking out of the mixture so you have enough room to light it. Let the mixture cool and harden. Let your mixture sit in a well-ventilated area so that it can cool down. It might take an hour or so to completely solidify. Place the bomb outside in an open area. Put your finished smoke bomb in an outdoor area clear of buildings, trees, other people, and pets. You should never light a smoke bomb indoors. Potassium nitrate smoke bombs burn very violently. So make sure you place it in a clear, open area away from anything that can catch fire. Light the fuse and enjoy your smoke bomb. Use a lighter to light the end of the fuse. Move away quickly as soon as the fuse is lit to avoid smoke inhalation or injury. Your smoke bomb will produce a large cloud of dark smoke. Open up an instant cold pack containing ammonium nitrate. You can purchase a cold pack at any drugstore. They contain ammonium nitrate, which is a common ingredient used in garden fertilizers. Similar to potassium nitrate, it can be combined with other ingredients to create explosives. Open the pack by cutting it with a pair of scissors, and remove the small water bag inside and discard it. Pour all of the potassium nitrate granules into a bucket. Once the cold pack is opened and you remove the water packet, pour all of the potassium nitrates into a large pan or bucket. Wear gloves when you handle the granules. Ammonium nitrate is not incredibly toxic, but if it gets on your skin, wipe it off, and rinse the skin immediately. Always wash your hands thoroughly with liquid soap when you are finished. Add water a little at a time until the granules are completely dissolved. You can add water from the sink or a hose. Make sure you add just a little at a time, and gently swirl the bucket until the ammonium nitrate dissolves. Stop adding water as soon as you notice all of the granules have dissolved so the solution is still concentrated. If you add too much water, you'll end up with bombs that don't smoke. Grab 10 individual sheets of old newspaper and fold them into squares. Fold the newspaper in half lengthwise, then fold it again by bringing the top down to the bottom. This will help the newspaper to fit in the bucket and make it easier to handle. Try to find an older newspaper. Brand new newspapers have a waxy film that prevents them from lighting properly. Dip each newspaper sheet one at a time into the ammonium nitrate solution. Put each newspaper one-by-one one into the solution, and then swish them around until they are completely soaked. Submerge each one in the liquid for at least 30 seconds. The wet newspaper will be fragile, so be careful not to rip it while handling. Unfold the newspaper sheets and lay them out in the sun to dry. You can use a driveway or any other concrete surface to dry your newspapers. Make sure you lay them out flat in a sunny spot so they can dry completely and evenly. If you are in a windy area, lay the newspaper sheets out and put rocks or other weights on the corners of each sheet to prevent them from flying away. You can tell when they are ready when they can be lifted off of the pavement easily. Gather your dried newspapers and roll them all together. Once your newspapers are completely dry, put them all together in a stack. Then, starting from one end, roll them up. Secure the rolled newspaper by tying a string around them. Be careful not tie them too tight or too loose that they come apart. You may opt to experiment with different lengths and widths for your smoke bomb. If so, cut up the newspaper sheets, rip them in half, or leave them whole before rolling them up. Take your smoke bomb outside and light one end with a lighter. Now your smoke bomb is ready! Take it outside in an open area, and then use a lighter to light one end of the newspapers. You will notice clouds of smoke coming out of both ends of the newspaper.

Gather 3-4 celluloid ping-pong balls. Pierce a hole in one of the balls using a knife or screwdriver. Cut the remaining ping-pong balls into small pieces and put them in the hole of the first ball. Stick the sharp end of the pencil in the hole and wrap foil around it. Take the pencil out of the foil wrap. Take the smoke bomb outside in an open area. Light a flame underneath the foil-wrapped ping-pong ball. Toss the bomb and watch it smoke. Gather your supplies and put on your safety gear. Cover one end of the toilet paper tube with duct tape. Combine potassium nitrate and white sugar in a cast iron skillet. Heat the pan on the stove over medium-low heat for 15 minutes. Add one spoonful of baking soda if you want the bomb to burn slowly. Pour the mixture into the cardboard tube. Insert a visco fuse into the tube while the mixture is still soft. Let the mixture cool and harden. Place the bomb outside in an open area. Light the fuse and enjoy your smoke bomb. Open up an instant cold pack containing ammonium nitrate. Pour all of the potassium nitrate granules into a bucket. Add water a little at a time until the granules are completely dissolved. Grab 10 individual sheets of old newspaper and fold them into squares. Dip each newspaper sheet one at a time into the ammonium nitrate solution. Unfold the newspaper sheets and lay them out in the sun to dry. Gather your dried newspapers and roll them all together. Take your smoke bomb outside and light one end with a lighter.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Professor-to-Change-Your-Grade

How to Get a Professor to Change Your Grade

To get your professor to change your grade, ask them for an appointment to discuss your grade. You're probably frustrated about your grade, but try to be polite and respectful to your professor at all times so they'll be more happy to help you. If your school allows it, your professor might ask you to fill out a rebuttal to explain why you should have your grade changed. You can also try asking for extra credit in exchange for doing an extra project or assignment, but many schools don't allow this.

Understand the grading process. Grading can vary wildly, depending on the subject, college, teacher, and the country you are in. However, a good quality program will have standards that both staff and students adhere to. The professors access the quality of your work based on certain criteria, which should be made clear at the beginning of the course. This does not mean that no appeal is possible, but by and large your responsibility is to meet the standard. Unless the professor made a glaring error while grading your assignment or determining your course grade, they are unlikely to change your grade. It is also important to remember that grades are earned, not given. You do not earn a grade based on how hard you work, but rather how well you have mastered the material and followed the guidelines for the assignments. Unfortunately, you do not get bonus points for effort. Decide if it’s worth your time and energy. In most cases, it is not worth your time or energy to attempt to get a professor to change your grade. The process will suck up valuable time, which can be better spent on future assignments and your other coursework. Before approaching your professor, think about whether it is worth the hassle. Review the course syllabus. It's important that you go over the course syllabus in detail before approaching your professor about the grade you earned. Carefully read every word of the syllabus, paying specific attention to the sections on assignments and how your grade is calculated. For example, if you turned in the assignment late, you should consult the syllabus about the professor's late assignment policy. This might explain why you earned a particular grade. This will also indicate to your professor that you read instructions and are thorough. You don't look great when the answer to your question is in bold in the syllabus! Make sure you followed the assignment instructions. Before you approach a professor about changing your grade, you need to make sure you followed instructions for the assignment in question. Look over the assignment instructions and carefully consider each part of them. Not following instructions is often the reason you did not earn the grade you expected. For example, if the assignment instructions say to turn in a 5-page paper and you only turned in 2 pages, it might explain your grade. Carefully read the professor’s comments. Before you freak out over a grade, you should carefully read all of the comments that the professor included on the assignment. In most cases, these comments will tell you why you earned a particular grade. If you have trouble reading or understanding your professor's comments, try asking them to clarify. Check the accuracy of the professor's grading, if applicable. Education is often an imperfect art; professors sometimes make mistakes in grading. Sometimes the wrong answer key was used, or the professor misunderstood your thesis, the teacher was up at 4 a.m. grading papers or any number of errors. Justifying a higher grade needs data, and that often means proving the professor was in error. Check your answers with peers, on the Internet, or with other sources. If comments on a written piece do not make sense, there is the possibility of the professor misreading something.(Although it is possible your writing is problematic, not an error on the part of the professor.) If you do not understand the corrections or mistakes, it is often worth contacting the professor in order to go over the work. Depending on the school, class, or teacher, you may not be able to get the grade changed. However going to the professor with a good attitude will often make a professor more likely to work with you in improving your grade. Set up an appointment to speak with your professor. In many countries, there are laws that forbid professors from discussing grades via email. Instead of attempting to have a conversation about your grade over email, set up an appointment to talk to your professor face-to-face. Try talking to your professor after class. You can say, “Dr. Johnson, I am concerned about the grade I earned on the exam. Can we set up a time to meet?” Note that many professors will require you to wait at least 24 hours after receiving a grade to discuss it with them. This encourages students to review the material carefully during that time rather than reacting harshly or in a hostile manner after receiving a poor grade. Even if email is an option, face-to-face meetings are generally best in discussing this sort of issue. Be ready to submit a written rebuttal. If you decide to proceed with challenging your grade, most professors will make you submit your objections in writing. You will need to outline why your assignment deserves a higher grade, and how the evidence you submitted in the assignment fulfilled the professor's guidelines. It is also helpful to incorporate the professor's comments on your assignment into the written rebuttal. Be respectful and professional at all times. You should always act with courtesy toward your professors, even if you disagree with them. Being aggressive or confrontational is not acceptable, and can land you in a heap of trouble. Always speak to your professor with respect, act like a professional and never ever threaten a professor. You're more likely to be persuasive and successful in getting your professor to change your grade if you discuss your objections respectfully. Ask the professor to clarify their comments. In many cases, you can clear up a misunderstanding over your grade by asking the professor to explain their comments in more detail. This gives the professor a chance to talk at length about their comments and will help you understand why you earned the grade. Try saying, "Dr. Smith, I'm confused by what you meant in your comment about my lack of organization. Can you explain this to me?" You may also want to ask your professor for advice on improving areas that they determined were sub-par. Emphasize your desire to improve. It's important that your professor understands you want to improve your performance in the course. During your meeting ask the professor to give you suggestions on how to improve on future assignments. Try saying, “I'm really committed to improving my grade in this course. How can I do better on the next assignment?” You can say, “Dr. Anderson, I am dedicated to improving my grade in this course. What are some specific actions I can take to improve my grade?” Lead with your desire to improve, rather than your desire to change your grade, is more likely to persuade your professor. Ask for extra credit. Sometimes you can raise your grade in a class by doing extra credit. You can try asking your professor for an additional paper or assignment to earn extra points. Keep in mind that many professors, however, do not offer extra credit. Consider asking, "Dr. Toothman, do you offer extra credit? Perhaps I could write another paper to earn some extra points." Inquire about re-doing the assignment. This can be a feasible solution if your professor is open to the idea. Ask the professor if you can take a second shot at the assignment. For example, you can ask to write a new paper on the same or a similar topic. You could say, “Mrs. Alderman, would you allow me to retake the exam?” Reconsider taking it to a higher level. You should think carefully before appealing your grade at a higher level. Unless the professor made a clear mistake, those above them will support the original grade. If you truly believe you can make a strong case for a grade change, make sure you follow the appropriate chain of command. Ask your university's office of student affairs about the proper procedure. Let it go. Unless the professor made an obvious mistake while calculating your grade, it is in your best interest to let it go. Pursuing an unwarranted grade change will not put you in a favorable light with the professor. More importantly, the effort you spend pursuing a grade change can be better spent on studying.

Understand the grading process. Decide if it’s worth your time and energy. Review the course syllabus. Make sure you followed the assignment instructions. Carefully read the professor’s comments. Check the accuracy of the professor's grading, if applicable. Set up an appointment to speak with your professor. Be ready to submit a written rebuttal. Be respectful and professional at all times. Ask the professor to clarify their comments. Emphasize your desire to improve. Ask for extra credit. Inquire about re-doing the assignment. Reconsider taking it to a higher level. Let it go.

https://www.wikihow.com/Lose-Weight-from-Your-Cheeks

How to Lose Weight from Your Cheeks

The best way to lose weight from your cheeks is by losing weight overall. Be sure to drink at least 72 ounces of water every day to keep your body hydrated, and avoid salty and sugary foods, as well as alcohol, which can cause your body to store water weight in your cheeks. Then, maintain a balanced diet including vegetables, fruits, lean meat, and calcium-rich foods like yogurt. You can also try to smile more often to exercise your cheek and mouth muscles and appear happier!

Say “X” and “O” back-to-back. Repeating these sounds can help to work the muscles in your cheeks and create a slimmer looking face. Say each letter 20 times and repeat this twice daily. You can do these facial exercises in the shower, while getting dressed in the morning, or during your morning commute. Suck in your cheeks like a fish. Pull your cheeks into your mouth by sucking them inwards. Then, hold your cheeks in this position for about 3 seconds, and release. Repeat this exercise 20 times daily. Open your mouth wide, hold, and relax. Open up your mouth as wide as you can, such as if you're about to take a big bite of something. Then, hold it in this position for 5 seconds. Then, relax and close your mouth again. Repeat this exercise 20 times daily. Swish air around in your mouth. Swish the air like you would swish mouthwash. Do this for a total of 5 minutes per day. You can break it up into 1, 2 or 3 minute sessions or try to do it all at once. If you prefer, you could also try swishing water around in your mouth to work your cheek muscles. Chew a stick of gum after each meal. The repetitive chewing motion may help to strengthen your jaw and make your cheeks look slimmer. Chew gum for 5 to 10 minutes after every meal. If chewing gum hurts your jaw, don't do it. Smile more often. Smiling also exercises your facial muscles, and it may draw attention away from your cheeks. Smile and hold the position for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times per day. As an added bonus, smiling often may also help you feel more positive and confident in general. Take it easy on the salt and sugar. If you include too much salt and refined sugar in your diet, then your body is more likely to retain water. Just like not drinking enough water, this will keep your face and cheeks looking puffy from all of that retained water. Though you can't give up on salt and sugar completely, try cutting salty or sugary foods out of your diet and eating foods that are low in salt or sugar. Adopt a healthy diet and cut calories to lose weight. The best strategy for losing weight in your cheeks is to change your diet and work on overall weight loss. Identify your target weight and make this your goal. Then, cut back on calories by eating more healthy, low-calorie foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Try downloading a calorie counting app to keep track of how much you're eating each day. Record everything you eat and drink in the app and stay within your daily caloric limit to start losing weight. Drink more water to promote weight loss and reduce cheek puffiness. Water is the best thing to drink when you're dieting since it has no calories and it helps you to feel full between meals. Not staying well hydrated may also result in water retention, which can cause your cheeks to look puffy. Drink water whenever you are thirsty to stay well-hydrated. Keep a water bottle with you at all times and refill it throughout the day. Drink extra water if you've been sweating excessively, such as after a workout or when you're out in warm weather. Consume alcohol in moderation or avoid it. Drinking alcohol may cause your cheeks to look puffy, so avoid drinking alcohol whenever you can and only drink moderately if you do drink. Moderate drinking is defined as no more than 1 alcoholic drink per day for women or 2 per day for men. One drink is equal to 12  fl oz (350 mL) of beer, 5  fl oz (150 mL) of wine, or 1.5  fl oz (44 mL) of spirits. Try swapping your evening cocktail for a cup of chamomile tea or a mocktail made with sparkling water and fruit juice. Exercise for 150 minutes per week to help promote weight loss. This is the recommended amount of moderate cardiovascular exercise for general well-being. Doing this amount of exercise each week will also help you to burn more calories and lose weight. You can work out for 30 minutes 5 times per week or break up your 150 minutes in a different way. If you prefer, you can do 75 minutes of vigorous exercise instead, such as running or doing high-intensity interval training. Make sure to choose a form of exercise that you enjoy so you'll be more likely to stick with it. For example, if you enjoy dancing, take a dance class or follow along with dance aerobics videos online. Get more sleep to promote weight loss. Getting a good night's sleep each night may also help to promote weight loss, so make sleep a priority. Go to bed early enough to get at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Some other strategies that may help to promote a restful night's sleep include: Making your bedroom a relaxing place, such as by getting a nice set of sheets and keeping it clean, cool, quiet, and dark. Turning off screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime, such as your phone, computer, and TV. Avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening. Ask your doctor to check for underlying conditions. In some cases, puffy cheeks may indicate a medical condition that requires treatment. If you're already at a healthy weight and nothing seems to help reduce the puffiness in your cheeks, make an appointment with a doctor. For example, your doctor may want to check you for the mumps since this condition causes your cheeks to look puffy. Check to see if your medications might cause puffy cheeks. If you're taking a prescription of over-the-counter medication regularly, this might be contributing to puffy cheeks. Check with your doctor to see if this if a possibility and if there are any alternative medications you can try. For example, oxycodone can cause a reaction that makes your face and extremities swell up. Although this is rare, it's worth looking into if you're taking this medication. Look into plastic surgery if other strategies don’t help. This is an extreme option for excess weight in your cheeks, but you might consider it if nothing's helping and the excess weight bothers you. You can ask your primary care physician for a referral to a plastic surgeon or find an experienced plastic surgeon on your own.

Say “X” and “O” back-to-back. Suck in your cheeks like a fish. Open your mouth wide, hold, and relax. Swish air around in your mouth. Chew a stick of gum after each meal. Smile more often. Take it easy on the salt and sugar. Adopt a healthy diet and cut calories to lose weight. Drink more water to promote weight loss and reduce cheek puffiness. Consume alcohol in moderation or avoid it. Exercise for 150 minutes per week to help promote weight loss. Get more sleep to promote weight loss. Ask your doctor to check for underlying conditions. Check to see if your medications might cause puffy cheeks. Look into plastic surgery if other strategies don’t help.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Good-Album

How to Make a Good Album

The first step to creating a good album is writing it! Once you've written about twice as many songs as you'll need, decide how they might fit together into an album. Choose the best songs and arrange them so that the first track is your very best song. Order the songs as if you're telling a story, or in groups with cohesive themes. When you're ready to record, plan to spend about 1.5 hours in the studio per song, and remove any distractions so that you can stick to a schedule.

Develop a theme or concept for your album. Your approach to an album theme can be as loose or elaborate as you like, but some kind of theme is necessary to make your album cohesive. It can be as simple as creating a lyrical theme that fuses the songs together, or you can go all out with a deep-rooted concept album that tells a story through song. For example, a loose theme could focus on a specific emotion, one of the four elements, a particular event that affected you or your own social commentary. To get an idea of how concept albums work, take a look at some of the following: The Wall by Pink Floyd, Pet Sounds by Beach Boys, and Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles. Before you start writing songs, spend some time reflecting. Keep a journal and write down your thoughts and ideas as they come to you. Build on songs that you’ve already written. Chances are, you have songs written that you haven't done anything with yet. Look closely at those songs – are there any connecting lyrical or melodic themes? Are they strong enough to build your album on? At the very least, these songs might inspire new ideas, or jumpstart a concept you already have in mind. Consider already-written material for your album. Work on building a repertoire of solid songs that you don't necessarily have a plan for yet. Spend a significant amount of time crafting new songs. During the writing phase, don't aim for perfection or fully realized songs. You can perfect the songs later. For now, explore ideas and make room for inspiration to strike. As you work on the songs, also work toward developing your own unique sound. Inspiration can come at any time, so be prepared. Carry a pen and notebook with you everywhere. Use a voice recorder app on your phone to capture lyric or melody ideas on the fly. If you don't play an instrument, search online for instrumentals you can lease or purchase from the creator. If you are co-writing songs with someone else, agree on how to split the music rights during the writing process. Typically, whoever writes the music gets 50%, and whoever writes the melody and lyrics gets 50%. Don't try to force the songs. If you get stuck on one, put that song away and start work on another one. You can come back to it later with fresh eyes and ears. Practice frequently. Organize specific times for practicing and stick to that schedule as closely as you can. Consistent practicing will help you hone your craft. You'll also get more comfortable with your material and your new songs will fully develop. Take note of any changes or variations that happen spontaneously while you're practicing. Think about why these variations might be happening. Do you need to rehearse more to work that kink out, or should that change be incorporated into the song? Don't be afraid to change your songs based on what comes out naturally while you're practicing. Allow them to develop organically. Book gigs and perform in front of crowds as often as possible. Performing will give you the chance to perfect your songs and test your new material out on an audience. Pay attention to their reactions and get feedback from trustworthy people in the crowd. Use gigs as opportunities to improve and refine your songs. Collaborate with your bandmates. If you are the front person or the main songwriter of a band, it can be difficult to relinquish full control. However, you have to give your bandmates room to interpret your vision while still putting their unique spin on the sound. Allow room for their creative juices to flow. Respect the suggestions and input of your bandmates. The songs will be better for it. Write more songs than you’ll need for a single record. After honing in on what you envision as the thematic heart of your album, explore your concept more deeply by writing even more songs. In general, most completed albums range from 8 to 12 tracks, so try to write around 20 songs. If 20 seems like too many, just aim to write as many songs as you can. Having an excess of material will allow you to literally craft your album by going through a process of elimination once you're in the final stages. Choose the best tracks for the record. As you narrow down the final tracks, think of the album as sculpture. Carve away the songs that don't fit your concept. Don't focus on choosing what you perceive to be the obvious “singles” – include a wide range of songs. Contrast is important to maintain a listener's attention. Produce only the best of your music. Choose the songs that truly showcase your musical talent. Arrange the track listing with emphasis on the first track. Track sequencing has always been important, but in today's digital music market, it's even more so. Research has shown that the earlier a track appears on a record, the more likely a consumer is to listen to it. The first song in particular is crucial, since it sets the tone for the entire piece. If you're working with a very particular theme or concept, create a narrative framework. It might help to imagine that you're composing the music for a film. If you aren't trying to tell a literal story, think more in terms of grouping songs together in chunks that relate to one another in a way that makes sense to you. Even if your concept/theme is more on the ambiguous side, you still want the album to be as cohesive as possible. Give the album a title. At this point you probably already have a working title in mind, but it's best to wait until the entire thing is compiled before committing to one. Choose a title that conveys the theme/concept you've been working toward. Go through your lyrics and see if anything jumps out at you as being title material. Bands often use the title of one of the songs as the album title. If you decide to go this route, choose the song that best exemplifies the theme or mood of your album. Another popular choice is to self-title the record, especially if it's a debut album. To self-title means to make your band's name the record title. Consider this if you feel that the album's themes encapsulate what your band is fundamentally all about. Rehearse the songs to prepare for recording in the studio. Studios usually charge by the hour and they are not cheap. Because of this, make sure that you've rehearsed the studio versions of your new songs until you have them down cold. Do as much pre-production on the album as you possibly can before hitting the studio. Figure out the BPM of each song before you go into the studio. This will help you avoid wasting valuable studio time figuring out tempos. If you have fellow band members, make sure everyone has rehearsed. Ask everyone to tune and prep their instruments before going into the studio. Consider recording a demo for each song you want to produce in the studio. You'll be able to lay down the vocal tracks and work out a lot of the details of the song in advance. Once you're in the studio, you'll be able to make the most of your time by focusing mostly on the lead vocal. If you are self-recording your record at home, this is still a good rule of thumb. Before you sit down to record a single note, do all of the pre-production for your record. Remove all distractions from the studio. Everyone should put away their cell phones and come into the studio ready to focus on recording the songs. Make sure the room is comfortable enough to spend large chunks of time in. Limit (or even prohibit) visits from friends, family and significant others. Remember to take frequent breaks to avoid over-exerting yourself. You want to keep your mind sharp. Step outside for a few minutes every hour or so for a breather. Don't have or do drugs and/or drink alcohol in the studio. You'll run the risk of wasting studio time and negatively affecting your ability to perform. Create a realistic recording schedule and stick to it. It's good to go into the studio with high expectations, but don't hinder yourself by establishing goals that don't make sense. Even the simplest of songs should take you about 1-2 hours to record, not counting set up time. Expect overdubs to take about 1 hour per song. Book your studio hours based on the above estimations. You may want to even give yourself a little extra time on top of that. It's better to work with a slight excess of time rather than not enough.Otherwise, you'll stress yourself out by rushing to finish, and may end up with recordings that you aren't proud of. Recording can be taxing on your voice, so don't plan to sing 10 songs in one day. Two songs a day is a good starting point. Use the best studio equipment you can afford. Get a list of what gear the studio has to offer before you go in and have a discussion with the engineer about what sound you are going for. The most important aspect is tracking the drums, since they are the hardest to get right in a recording. If you are short on cash, book studio time just for drum tracking. The rest can be done at a home studio with software like Pro Tools or Logic, especially if your band already owns decent gear and you have some quality microphones. To record good vocals, all you really need is a quality mic and an isolation booth. Talk to the studio to find out if an engineer is included in the cost of your studio time. If not, consider paying extra for one—having someone who can mix the music while you're performing is worth the cost! You'll also need to have each song mastered after it's recorded. Use the talents of your friends whenever possible. As a musician, you probably know people who have engineering talents and home studios. Avoid overthinking every detail. You need to listen to the recordings with a critical ear, but try to step back and be as objective as possible. It is not uncommon for musicians to over analyze the smallest of details in the studio and then tweak their recordings until they sound completely sterile. You want the songs to sound good, but you also want to preserve their original creativity. Overuse of studio equipment has a way of sanitizing recordings to a fault. It might help to bring some trusted friends in, after the majority of the recording is completed, to get fresh ears on the recordings. Make sure the artwork represents what the album is about. Cover art is often the final piece of the puzzle – the visual representation of what the album sounds like. The artwork can pull together your theme and add to the cohesiveness of the songs. It's also crucial because it's the first interaction most potential buyers will have with the album. Create or choose powerful images that represent your songs. Keep your album's theme and overall mood in mind. You want the artwork to be eye-catching, but it should also epitomize your album's theme. Put some thought into the color choices. The colors used in the artwork are just as important as the images themselves, so develop a color theme that reflects the album's emotions. It wouldn't make sense to record a bleak record about the death of a loved one and then put a pink and yellow cover on it. Conversely, a jubilant-sounding album shouldn't have artwork that is mostly black or gray. If you're not a visual artist, consider hiring one on a gig site like Fiverr. Inspect the artwork of some of your favorite albums for inspiration. Think about how the color choices on those album covers relate to the emotion of the records. Be consistent once you’ve decided on a particular vibe and treatment. Your chosen theme and album vibe should have continuity across the board. This includes even the font choices and your band's logo (if you have one). The idea is to present a complete package – a fully realized piece of art. The more uniform your complete album package is, the easier it is for people to remember. Keep consistency in mind even when it comes to your band's merchandise, website, etc. For example, a somber album shouldn't be paired with a pink band t-shirt. Create your own artwork whenever possible. When it comes to your album, you are the expert. You know it inside and out. If you aren't artistic in this way, try to work up a loose initial design in Photoshop or on paper before handing it off to more capable hands. At the very least, have a solid idea of what you are trying to achieve with the artwork before having someone else design it. Be protective of your vision, but also leave a little room for the artist to be creative. Make sure the final design has a high quality digital file that goes with it. When the artwork goes to print, the highest resolution possible is needed to ensure the final product looks solid and professional.

Develop a theme or concept for your album. Build on songs that you’ve already written. Spend a significant amount of time crafting new songs. Practice frequently. Book gigs and perform in front of crowds as often as possible. Collaborate with your bandmates. Write more songs than you’ll need for a single record. Choose the best tracks for the record. Arrange the track listing with emphasis on the first track. Give the album a title. Rehearse the songs to prepare for recording in the studio. Remove all distractions from the studio. Create a realistic recording schedule and stick to it. Use the best studio equipment you can afford. Avoid overthinking every detail. Make sure the artwork represents what the album is about. Put some thought into the color choices. Be consistent once you’ve decided on a particular vibe and treatment. Create your own artwork whenever possible.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Carnation-Lei

How to Make a Carnation Lei

To make a carnation lei, start by threading your needle with 100 inches of dental floss or carpet thread and tie a knot at the end. Next, cut the stems off about 50 fresh or plastic carnations and arrange the flowers in your preferred order if you're using multiple colors. Then, stick the needle into the face of the first flower, push it through, and slide the bloom down to the knot. Finally, repeat the process for the rest of the flowers, knot the other end of the thread, and tie the ends together!

Use strong thread or dental floss. You can use a variety of thread to make a lei, though dental floss and carpet thread are your best options. Dental floss makes for a very sturdy lei, though it won't be as soft as thread and you'll be more limited in your color options. Ideally, you should use carpet thread if you want thread of various colors. Measure and cut 100 inches (254 cm) of thread. 100 inches (254 cm) of thread will give you a standard 40 inch (102 cm) lei, with enough extra thread for the various knots you'll need to make. You'll need this amount of thread for each lei you want to make. Once measured, use a pair of scissors to cut your thread to size. Choose a steel needle between 12 and 18 inches (31-46 cm). Dedicated lei needles are usually made of this tough metal and are found in these sizes. You can still make a lei if you don't have access to a lei needle. Just use an embroidery needle that's in the same size range. Thread the needle. Pinch the thread between your fingers, as close to the end of the thread as possible. Bring the eye of the needle toward the thread, pushing it onto your fingers. As the eye of the needle meets the thread, you can use your fingers to push the thread through. Fold the thread over on itself and knot the ends. Use a square knot to tie the ends together. Hold an end of the thread in each hand. Place the right end of the thread over the left, crossing them, then around the thread. As you cross the ends of the thread, you should be switching hands; the right end becomes the left end and vice versa. Bring the left end of the thread over the right end of the thread, creating a circle, then around the thread and out through the circle. Pull on both ends and you should have a square knot. This simple knot will be used several times as you make your lei. The knot should be tied about 5 inches (13 cm) away from the end of the thread. Buy 50 carnations. You'll need 50 carnations for a standard lei of about 40 inches. You can mix and match different colors or use carnations of a single color. If you need to make a large amount of lei, you can buy carnations in bulk online relatively cheaply. Traditional lei use fresh flowers, and they're usually crafted just before they're given as a gift. However, you can use plastic flowers instead. Cut the stems off the carnations. Use a pair of scissors to cut the stems as close to the flower head as possible. Discard the stems in a compost bin. If you can buy carnation heads, you'll save yourself the hassle of cutting off stems. Arrange your flowers in your preferred order. You only need to worry about this if you're using carnations of different colors. Set them in the order that you'll want them to be in for your lei. That way, you'll pick up and thread them in the right order and you'll be able to work more quickly. For example, if you're using blue and red carnations and want them to alternate, set them up in an alternating pattern on your table. Put the needle through the center of your first carnation. Stick the needle into the face of the flower, right in the center. Push through until the needle comes out the other end of the flower. Pull the flower along the thread until it reaches the knot. The flower should slide smoothly until it hits the knot. Don't force the flower along the thread. If it ends up not sliding down smoothly enough, wait until you've added a few more flowers. The added weight will help them slide along. Repeat this process for the rest of your flowers. After you slide on all your flowers, make sure to leave 5 inches (13 cm) of thread on each end. You'll need this to tie the thread together and close the lei. With this excess thread and all knots, you'll end up a 40 inch (102cm) lei (measured lengthwise once it's closed). Cut the thread off the needle and knot it. Hold the thread tightly so it doesn't slip back into the carnations. Tie the ends of the thread into a knot to keep the carnations on the thread. Tug on the thread to make sure the knot holds. Tie the ends of the lei together. Bring both ends of the lei together to form a circle. Tie them together using a triple knot and trim any excess thread. Use the lei as soon as possible. Since you won't be keeping the carnations in a vase, place your lei in the refrigerator to keep it looking fresh as long as possible. If you don't have access to a fridge, spray the lei with a mist of cold water and wrap it up in a paper towel. Once your lei has served its purpose, don't throw it in the garbage. Take the flowers from the string and return them to nature, either by burying them or throwing them in a body of water.

Use strong thread or dental floss. Measure and cut 100 inches (254 cm) of thread. Choose a steel needle between 12 and 18 inches (31-46 cm). Thread the needle. Fold the thread over on itself and knot the ends. Buy 50 carnations. Cut the stems off the carnations. Arrange your flowers in your preferred order. Put the needle through the center of your first carnation. Pull the flower along the thread until it reaches the knot. Repeat this process for the rest of your flowers. Cut the thread off the needle and knot it. Tie the ends of the lei together. Use the lei as soon as possible.

https://www.wikihow.com/Diagnose-Ehlers%E2%80%90Danlos-Syndrome

How to Diagnose Ehlers‐Danlos Syndrome

If you have overly flexible joints and stretchy skin that bruises easily, talk to your doctor about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome to see if they recommend genetic testing for an official diagnosis. Since EDS is a genetic syndrome, keep in mind that you will most likely have a family member with the same condition. To tell which subtype of EDS you have, pay attention to which of your symptoms are most severe. For example, people with the hypermobility subtype may frequently dislocate their shoulder or patella and suffer from chronic pain. Alternatively, if you have the classical subtype of EDS, you may get muscle cramps and notice scars on your knees, elbows, forehead, and chin.

Look for overly flexible joints. The most visible signs of EDS are shared among most of the six different subtypes. One is having overly flexible or “hypermobile” joints. This symptom can take a number of different forms, including joint “looseness” and the ability to extend joints past their normal range. It might also include joint pain and susceptibility to injuries. One giveaway that you have hypermobile joints is that you are able to extend the joints past their normal range of motion. Some people call this being “double-jointed.” Can you bend your little fingers back more than 90 degrees? Can you bend your elbows or knees backward? These are indications that you have “loose” joints. Besides being loose, the joints may be unstable and prone to dislocate. Someone with EDS may also suffer from chronic joint pain or develop early onset osteoarthritis. Note stretchy skin. People with EDS often have distinctive skin, too. The body's weakened connective tissues let the skin stretch more than it normally would and the skin usually appears very soft and shiny. The skin is also highly elastic and will spring back into place if stretched. Keep in mind that some people with EDS display hypermobile joints but not these skin symptoms. Is the skin exceptionally soft, thin, elastic, or loose? These are potential signs of a number of medical complications, including EDS. Try the following test: pinch a small area of skin on the back of the hand and gently pull up. For people with typical skin symptoms of EDS, the skin will immediately snap back into place. Beware of fragile skin and easy wounding. Another related sign of EDS is that the skin is very fragile and prone to wounding. Skin can bruise or even split easily and will take longer than usual to heal. People who are affected may also develop severe scarring over time. Do you bruise at the slightest bump? Because the connective tissue is weak, people with EDS may easily bruise, break blood vessels, or experience prolonged bleeding after a trauma. You may also need to be tested for prothrombin blood clotting, another potential cause of easy bruising. For someone with EDS, the skin may be fragile enough to tear or break open with very slight force. It may also take a long time to heal. For instance, stitches meant to close a wound may tear out and leave a large scar. Many people with EDS have distinct scarring that is described as looking like “parchment” or “cigarette paper.” These scars are long and thin and form where the skin has split open. Note indications of hypermobility. “Hypermobility” is the least serious of all EDS subtypes but can still have major effects, especially on the muscles and skeleton. The biggest indication of this subtype is joint hypermobility. However, there may be additional signs in addition to the shared symptoms above. Apart from joint looseness, many people with the hypermobility subtype can suffer frequent dislocations of the shoulder or patella with little or no trauma and a good deal of pain. They may also develop diseases like osteoarthritis. Chronic pain is a primary sign of hypermobility EDS, too. This pain can be severe – “physically and psychologically disabling” – and can't always be accounted for. Doctors are not sure, but it may come from muscle spasms or arthritis. Read signs for the “classical” subtype. The “classical” version of EDS usually shows the common skin and joint symptoms, i.e. the skin is fragile and the joints are overly mobile. However, there are other symptoms that are associated with this subtype. These should be considered when trying to reach a diagnosis. People with this subtype of EDS often have scars over pressure points like the knees, elbows, forehead, and chin. The scars at these locations may also have hardened, calcified bruises. Some people also develop “spheroids” on the forearms or shins. These are small cysts under the skin that contain fat and are movable. People with this subtype of EDS may also have poor muscle tone, fatigue, and muscle cramps. In some cases, they may suffer from hiatal hernias or even anal prolapse. Look for vascular complications. Vascular EDS is the most dangerous subtype, because it affects the internal organs and can lead to things like internal bleeding or even death. More than 80% of people with this subtype experience a complication by age 40. People with vascular EDS often have a certain physical appearance. This includes thin and translucent skin, which is most visible on the chest. They may also be short with thin hair, and have large eyes, a thin nose, and ears without lobes. Other signs of vascular EDS are clubfoot, joint looseness limited only to the fingers and toes, premature skin aging on the hands and feet, and early varicose veins. The most serious signs for this subtype have to do with internal injuries. Bruising is very easy. Vascular EDS can also lead arteries to rupture or collapse without warning. This is the leading cause of death for those with this subtype. Observe signs of scoliosis. Another form of EDS is the Kyphoscoliosis subtype. The main feature of this kind is the sideways curvature of the spine (scoliosis). Kyphoscoliosis EDS can show itself at birth in this as well as other major symptoms. As said, look for lateral curvature of the spine. In kyphoscoliosis EDS, scoliosis is present at birth or within the first year and is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time. Often, people with this subtype are unable to independently in adulthood. People with the Kyphoscoliosis subtype also usually have severe joint looseness and poor muscle tone at birth. This can delay the child's motor skills. Another sign has to do with the eyes. The Kyphoscoliosis subtype weakens the whites of the eye or sclera. Watch out for hip dislocations. The main sign of the arthrochalasia subtype is the frequent dislocation of the hips starting from birth. Along with skin elasticity, easy bruising, and fragile tissue, this sign is present in all people with this variety of EDS. Arthrochalasia EDS is mainly identified by frequent dislocations and displacements of the hip joints. However, it can also include poor muscle toning and scoliosis. Pay closer attention to the skin. The last and least common variety of EDS is the dermatosparaxis subtype, which is named after symptoms related to the skin. People with this kind of EDS have more fragile skin and severe bruising than others but otherwise different features. Note the skin's appearance. In Dermatosparaxis EDS, the skin is soft and doughy and there is less elasticity. Many people have excess and sagging skin, especially around the face. People with Dermatosparaxis EDS may be prone to large hernias. However, they have skin that heals normally and do not scar as in other subtypes. Talk to a doctor. If you think that you or a loved one might have EDS, talk about your concerns with a physician. Your regular doctor may be able to advise you but will more likely refer you to a specialist in genetic diseases. Expect a series of questions about medical and family histories, a thorough exam, and a blood test. Set up an appointment. Before you see the doctor, think about what symptoms you have seen or experienced. The doctor may ask if your or your loved one's joints are overly flexible, if the skin is stretchy, or if the skin heals poorly. She will also probably ask about any medications the patient is taking. Look for a family connection. Since EDS is a genetic syndrome, it gets passed down in families. This means that you or a loved one is more likely to have the mutations if a close family member had them, as well. Think carefully and be prepared to answer questions about your family history. Did any of your or your loved one's relatives have a diagnosed case of EDS? Or, did they have symptoms like the ones you're seeing? Do you know of any relatives who died suddenly from a ruptured blood vessel or organ? Recall that this is one of the most serious complications of vascular EDS and may indicate an undiagnosed case. Your doctor will try to diagnose by type, finding the EDS subtype that most closely matches the patient's symptoms. Have genetic testing. Usually a specialist can make a diagnosis on the basis of the skin, joints, and a family history. However, they can also use genetic tests to confirm EDS or the specific subtype that is present. A DNA test can pinpoint the problem and show the specific genes that are mutated. Genetic testing can be done to confirm Vascular, kyphoscoliosis, Arthrochalasia, Dermatosparaxis, and sometimes Classical EDS. For testing, expect to be referred to a clinical geneticist or genetic counselor. You'll then give a sample of either blood, saliva, or skin for laboratory testing. Genetic tests are not always 100% accurate. Some people recommend that they be done conservatively to confirm rather than rule out a diagnosis.

Look for overly flexible joints. Note stretchy skin. Beware of fragile skin and easy wounding. Note indications of hypermobility. Read signs for the “classical” subtype. Look for vascular complications. Observe signs of scoliosis. Watch out for hip dislocations. Pay closer attention to the skin. Talk to a doctor. Look for a family connection. Have genetic testing.

https://www.wikihow.com/Bundle-Money

How to Bundle Money

Bundling your money is an easy way to sort it and keep track of how much you have. You'll need coin sleeves and currency bands, which you can get from most banks and office stores. Start by separating your money by coin and bill denominations in stacks of 10. Count your bills into stacks that correspond with the currency on your band. For instance, count 25 dollar bills and wrap them with a 25-dollar band. Make sure all the bills are facing the same way to make it easier to count. To bundle coins, stop the end of a coin sleeve and insert a stack of the same denomination to help you count your coins. For example, 40 nickels equal 2 dollars and 50 dimes equal 5 dollars. Count any loose coins and bills at the end.

Get coin sleeves and currency bands from your bank or an office store. Ask the teller at your bank if they give out free sleeves and bands. Most banks do. Make sure you get sleeves and bands for each money denomination. If you don't know how many you need, ask for five of each to start with. If your bank does not give out money bundling supplies, most office stores and big-box stores carry them. Look for the individual denominations that you want, or buy a large pack of them all. Separate the bills from the coins. If your money is mixed together in a box or jar, dump it all out onto a table to sort it. Pick out the bills and make a stack. As you do this, let the coins sift into a pile of their own. Push the coins to one side of you and the bills to the other side. If you have only coins or bills, it is still easiest to sort the money if it is laid out on a table. Sort the money into piles by denomination. Make a separate pile for each coin and bill. Sort one pile each of pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters. If you have a few other coins, like half dollars, separate those. You may have up to six piles of bills, which includes ones through hundreds. Make sure your piles are far enough apart so they don't get mixed up together. The two main sorting styles are either pulling out a single denomination at a time and piling it up or sorting all of the piles at once as you grab random pieces of money. Make piles of ten coins. Begin to count each value of coin into stacks of ten. This gives you an idea of how much you have total. It also helps you fill the coin sleeves later because the coins are all counted. Be careful not to knock them over or you'll make more work for yourself. For example, you might end up with four stacks of ten pennies, one stack of ten nickels, six stacks of ten dimes, and three stacks of ten quarters. Your coins probably won't come out into exact stacks of ten, so pile the extras in a separate stack. Write down how many extras you have so you don't have to count them again later. Open flat coin sleeves so they form a tube. Squeeze the edges of the coin sleeve and insert your thumb in one end of the sleeve. Press the edges until they touch each other and the sleeve forms into a square tube. Make a few more creases to round it out. Block one end of the sleeve with your thumb. The easiest way to insert coins into the sleeve is to insert your thumb to block one end of the tube. When you do this, it forms a stopping point for the coins when you drop them in the tube. If your thumb is too thick, use a different finger. Since each coin is a different size, the tubes they go in are different sizes, as well. Use whichever finger fits best into the tube. Slide the stacked coins into the tube. If you picked up a penny sleeve, grab a stack of pennies and slowly slide them into the tube. Make sure they stack on top of each other properly. Count the designated amount into the tube. Each coin roll is meant to hold a specific amount of a certain coin. Make sure you check the sleeves and count carefully as you go so you insert the right number of coins. Roll 50 pennies for a value of 50 cents. Rolls 40 nickels for a value of two dollars. Roll 50 dimes for a value of five dollars. Roll 40 quarters for a value of $10. Divide the bills into counted stacks. Check the currency bands that you have to find out how much money they each hold. Then pick up each denomination of bill one at a time and count the bills into stacks that match the currency bands you're using. For example, common one-dollar bands hold $25, so you'd count the ones into piles of 25. Twenty-dollar bills are bundled as $500, so you'd make piles of 25 bills. Count each stack twice to make sure every stack has the right amount. Put extra bills to the side in a stack separate from the rest. Your money probably won't count out into even piles. Save the extra bills for the next time you bundle up your money. Make sure they don't get mixed in with your counted stacks and mess them up. Turn the bills in each pile to face the same direction. If you'll be turning the money in at a bank, it's important that the bills are facing the same direction. Sort through the stacks and turn all of the bills so they face the same way. When banks count the money, it makes a teller's job easier if all of the bills are facing the same direction. Save yourself time at the bank by taking care of this before you get there. Count each stack again before you band it. With the stacks counted and facing the same way, count all of them again to check the number of bills. Sort out any pile that wasn't counted right the first time. It's easy to miscount, and it causes problems later if you don't check. If you didn't check the currency bands when you sorted and counted earlier, check them now. Make sure all of the stacks have the right amount of money for the bands you're using. Wrap the currency bands around the stacks of money. Start with the lowest denomination bill you have, and band each stack with the appropriate band. If the bands are adjustable to different sized bundles of money, make sure you tighten them around the stack of money. Currency bands may have self-sticking glue, or they may require you to peel a piece of plastic off of the sticky part. Others may form a single loop so they fit an exact amount of money.

Get coin sleeves and currency bands from your bank or an office store. Separate the bills from the coins. Sort the money into piles by denomination. Make piles of ten coins. Open flat coin sleeves so they form a tube. Block one end of the sleeve with your thumb. Slide the stacked coins into the tube. Divide the bills into counted stacks. Put extra bills to the side in a stack separate from the rest. Turn the bills in each pile to face the same direction. Count each stack again before you band it. Wrap the currency bands around the stacks of money.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Gumbo

How to Make Gumbo

Before making gumbo, soak okra in water and vinegar for 1 hour before rinsing and chopping. Next, mince the garlic and dice the onion, celery, and pepper. Then, chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and shell or shuck the seafood. Once the prep work is done, make a roux by heating butter in a stockpot and slowly mixing in flour. Add the stock and vegetables to the roux. While the stock is coming to a boil, brown the meat and add it and the seafood to the pot. Cook for 10 more minutes before serving!

De-slime the okra. Fresh okra has a gooey substance inside that many find unappealing. The method of removing this substance is called "de-sliming." Wash the okra and place it in a bowl with a quart of water and a cup of vinegar. Allow the mixture to soak for an hour. When an hour has passed, drain the okra, rinse it in fresh water, and pat dry with paper towels. Chop the de-slimed okra into bite-sized pieces and reserve in a container. Mince the garlic and dice the vegetables. Start by peeling and mincing the garlic cloves. Peel and dice a large onion, a few ribs of celery and a large bell pepper - the Cajun "holy trinity" - and reserve in a separate container. If you like more of one ingredient than another, feel free to add it - throwing in an extra onion, celery rib, or pepper won't change the rich flavor of gumbo. Chop the meat. Slice any sausage, andouille or tasso you're using into bite-sized slices, and store them in a container. Cut the whole game or poultry you have chosen to use into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the pieces, pat them dry with a paper towel, and reserve in a separate container. Refrigerate the meat until you're ready to compile the gumbo. Shell or shuck the seafood. Discard the shells and reserve the seafood in a sealed container. Refrigerate it until you're ready to compile the gumbo. . Make a roux Heat the butter in a stockpot large enough to hold the gumbo. Turn the burner to medium high and allow the butter to melt completely. Add the flour and use a whisk to stir it into the butter. Keep stirring as the mixture cooks and turns from gold to brown. Don't overcook the roux, or it will change the flavor of the gumbo. Turn down the heat if it looks like it's cooking too quickly. If the roux overcooks, it's best to start over with a new batch of butter and flour. Add the stock. As soon as the roux looks ready, ladle the stock to keep the roux from burning. Stir the mixture until the stock heats and begins to simmer. Add the vegetables. Stir in the onion, celery, and bell pepper mixture. Sprinkle in the chopped okra and garlic. Bring the stock to a boil. Brown the meat. While the stock is coming to a boil, place a skillet on a burner and turn the heat to medium high. Pour some oil on the skillet and let it heat up. Lay the bite-sized chunks of raw meat on the skillet and let them brown on one side for a minute. Use tongs to turn the meat over and brown it on the other side. Work in batches if necessary, since crowding the pan with meat will prevent liquid evaporation and prevent proper browning. It's not necessary to completely cook the meat, since it will finish in the gumbo pot. Add the meats and fish to the pot. Use tongs to transfer the browned meat to the pot. Add the smoked meats as well. Use a large wooden spoon to stir the mixture, and bring it back to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer and let it cook for one hour. Add the seasonings. Measure in the cayenne, black pepper, salt, and any other seasonings you wish to incorporate. Stir them into the gumbo. Taste the gumbo and decide whether to add more seasonings. Simmer the gumbo for another hour to give the flavors time to meld. Cook the rice. In a separate pot or in a rice cooker, cook the rice. When it's finished cooking, use two forks to fluff it up. Stir in the seafood. When the gumbo is almost finished cooking, stir in the shellfish and let it cook for another 10 minutes. This keeps the shellfish tender. Serve the gumbo. Spoon the rice into bowls. Ladle the gumbo over the rice and serve it hot. Many Cajuns enjoy gumbo with Louisiana hot sauce on the side.

De-slime the okra. Mince the garlic and dice the vegetables. Chop the meat. Shell or shuck the seafood. . Add the stock. Add the vegetables. Brown the meat. Add the meats and fish to the pot. Add the seasonings. Cook the rice. Stir in the seafood. Serve the gumbo.

https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Famous-Actress

How to Be a Famous Actress

To become a famous actress, start by saying “Yes” to as many opportunities to perform as you can, like the lead in a play, even if these roles are unpaid. Additionally, you can broaden your talent by learning new skills, like singing or dancing, which may make your more appealing to casting directors. If you need help finding auditions, set up meetings with management agencies to find an agent who will use their connections to get your more opportunities.

Sign up for acting classes or join a local acting studio. Search online for classes offered by your community center or find an acting studios in your area. If you have no background in acting, this is a great way to meet other actors and actresses and learn the basics. Call the studio to see when the next class cycle starts and determine if it's in your budget. A good studio will show you the basics first. Any studio or teacher who boasts, or worse, promises, they can make you a “star.” should be avoided. It may take years to develop and hone your acting skills, so don't get discouraged if you aren't a natural. Consider becoming an actress and focusing less on being famous. Take drama in high school or secondary school. If your secondary education option offers it, drama is a good way to begin acting early on. Acting requires you to understand complex scripts, memorize hundreds of lines, and have the ability to perform in front of an audience. Taking drama in high school, for example, will give you an introduction into many of these key acting areas. Make sure to audition or register, depending on what's required. Famous Actresses can be stars of stage or screen. Voice only work is common too such as radio or movie voiceover rolls. Taking drama in school can improve interpersonal skills, as well as, mental, physical, and emotional development. Determine if you prefer stage, film or TV acting. Stage and screen acting are in very different environments. Stage acting is a performance in front of a live audience. You'll be given time to rehearse and learn lines more so than on film or in a television show. You'll learn stage acting in high school drama, but some of these skills also translate to the screen. Other differences include the ability to vocalize. Acting for television and film, utilizes microphones that are able to pick up minute sounds, while you need to resonate vocally on stage. Costume changes often have to occur much quicker with stage acting. Major in acting in college or another tertiary education option such as an acting school. When looking for colleges or universities to attend, consider selecting an acting school. Some of the best schools for drama and the performing arts include The Juilliard School, Yale School of Drama, Carnegie Mellon University, and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts. Many of the top drama schools require an audition in order to be admitted. Try building a strong portfolio and take all the roles you can get while you're in high school to increase your odds of getting into a performing arts college. The competition for admission is often very fierce and includes filing a lot of paperwork. Take opportunities to perform. Don't shy away from a role if a producer or director thinks you're a fit for it. If your high-school drama teacher wants you to be the lead role in the play, take the opportunity. In order to build your skills and develop your talent, you need to actively perform in front of an audience. You may have to perform in unpaid roles until you're paid as a professional actress. Try to take roles that challenge you and will give you a greater diversity of skill. Keep physically fit and active. Roles may require you to be in physically good shape to execute certain maneuvers or fit a certain image for production. Stage acting also takes physical prowess and endurance in order to continue vocalizing lines and doing actions on stage. By maintaining good physical health, you'll prevent casting directors from dismissing you because of the shape you're in. You obviously don't have to be a size 0, but you need to stay healthy and be able of adapt your appearance. Getting sick may also halt production if you've been cast in a critical role. Make sure to take vitamins and maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Make sure to get enough sleep. Learn new skills, like singing and dancing, to broaden your talent. While it's not necessary to learn how to dance, sing, or play an instrument in order to act, these skills will make broaden your range and make you more appealing to casting directors. See if you can take an extra class at a community center or get a special tutor to teach you these skills. Horse riding, archery, gymnastics, diving, martial arts, conjuring, juggling and circus skills are all performance skills that may increase your ability to become a famous actress. Anna Kendrick, Kristen Bell, and Emmy Rossum can sing, dance and act. If you want to become a famous musical star, then singing and dancing are usually a necessary talents to have. Practice frequently to hone your skills. A great way to see your own progress is by taping yourself everyday to see how your acting skills are developing. Once you're done with your scene each day, go over the tape and write notes on things that you can do to improve. Practice audition scripts at home, and get friends who act to help you. Choose scripts in a genre that you find specifically challenging like comedy, romance, or drama, and practice them to hone your versatility. You can also do voice or movement specific exercises to improve specific aspects of your acting ability. Get a headshot taken by a photographer. A good headshot is critical to getting roles. Casting directors may see your headshot and call you in for auditions. Look online for photographers that specialize in headshots in your area and give them a call to schedule an appointment. Headshots exist to inform the casting director of your look, age, and who you are. Professional level headshots can be expensive, but a high-end headshot will help you stand out from the crowd. Be as natural as you can in your headshot—you want to look like the best version of yourself. Hire an agent. A good agent will have existing network connections in the industry and be able to get you auditions for roles that you wouldn't be able to get yourself. Set up meetings with management agencies and talk to different people in the industry to get referrals. Agents help you prepare for auditions and can impart useful knowledge about a career in acting to you. They may also help negotiate pay in some circumstances as well. Many agents charge you 10% of your earnings. Be wary of any agent who charges more than 15-20%, as well as any agency that promises to make you famous in exchange for a flat fee. Focus on applying with agencies that specialize in actors with a similar brand to yours. For instance, if you have a more intense look and you're hoping to break into horror films, look at agencies who've successfully helped other horror stars make it big. Make sure to thoroughly look through any contract with an attorney or similar qualified professional before signing any agreements or contracts. Surround yourself with other people in the acting industry. Networking in the acting industry is critically important and it can help you land roles if you know the right people. Make sure to keep in touch with directors and other actors and actresses and you may be the first in mind for a specific role. Remember to be pleasant and be easy to work with and talk with. If you get a bad reputation, it may make it harder for your to get auditions. Many actors will continue to work with the same people through their career. Never turn down the opportunity to attend a meeting to talk about a potential role or a new project someone is working on. Try looking for opportunities to work on-set, like production assistant jobs. That could help you make connections that may lead to extra roles or even larger parts. Remain persistent, even when you are rejected. You won't get all of the roles you audition for, but it doesn't mean you should throw in the towel. Continue to hone your craft and network in the industry, and you'll eventually you'll be able to become a famous actress. Matt Le Blanc struggled to land a role for years before he ended up on the hit show “Friends” in 1994. If you keep getting rejected for the same roles, try to switch up the types of roles you're auditioning for. Attend agent workshops. Agent workshops or showcases are opportunities for actors to showcase their skills in front of casting directors or producers. Actors attend these workshops and do read scripts to potentially land roles in the future. Make sure that when you attend one of these workshops you're dressed well and you've prepared a monologue. Look for open casting calls in your area. There are sometimes open opportunities for actors to land a role in a movie or play depending on where you live. Most open casting calls require the actor have a head shot, and a resume of past performance. Check casting websites like Backstage, Actor's Access, Casting Networks, Project Casting, Casting Call Hub, Explore Talent, and Mandy to find casting calls and even opportunities to submit auditions online. Starting as an extra will give you insight into film production and performance. Don't turn down opportunities to do commercials. Dakota Fanning, Farrah Fawcett, and Jodie Foster all starred in commercials before hitting the big screen. Hone your craft by practicing. Even after you've hit the big screen, it's important that you improve over the duration of your career. That means learning from other actors, practicing your roles, and understanding screenwriting and characterization. Method actresses completely embody the role, taking on the personality and life of the character they are playing. This makes the performance more organic. As time changes, acting methods also change. Make sure to stay up on the latest trends and take advice from successful actors an actresses in the industry, even if they're younger than you. Be selective when choosing roles and pick good scripts. An easy way for an actress to fade into obscurity is to select poor roles. Don't rely on your agent to choose things for you and read every script before accepting a role. Refuse roles that may hurt your career in the future. Additionally, don't take similar roles on in succession or else you may be typecast. Be realistic with your acting range, and choose roles that you can be capable in. Don't take roles that make you feel uncomfortable or require nudity, foul language or what you consider to be an immoral message if you don't want to. Understand your fan base. Once you have built a following, consider what it is that thrills your fans, what they like about you. Doing something vastly out of character could hurt your career, and make your fans turn on you. Staying to a succinct brand will retain many of your fans. Even though humans don't have one dimensional personalities, as a famous actress you will be a role model to girls and women across the globe. Stay active and keep looking for new roles. Because of how fast news and information is spread, it's important that you stay in the forefront of people's minds. Taking a couple of years off may mean people forget about you in that duration of time. Stay active and keep working. This may mean putting off relationships, having a family or developing a relationship. Some actors create bonds with producers or directors and go on to make numerous movies with the same people. Move to an acting focused city. Moving to a city that has more auditioning opportunities available will mean that you'll have more chances to find work. Keep in mind that this also means that the competition will be tougher in these areas. The best cities for acting include Los Angeles California, Baton Rouge Louisiana, Albuquerque New Mexico, Auckland, Mumbai etc. Research carefully if you are going to invest in relocating. Being around other actresses will also allow you to network in the industry and learn new things. In many acting centric cities the cost of living is higher than average. Network through social media and YouTube. Social media has allowed a greater connection between actresses and fans, and is a must if you want to stay relevant today. Make sure to maintain a succinct social media and work with your manager or agent to develop a good strategy. Digital video has also made it easier to come out with custom content, and delivering this to your fans for free will help grow your your fanbase and career. Posting ignorant or negative things on social media can destroy your career. Make sure to work with your manager on what to say and not to say. Don't get in fights on social media because it will lower your brand. Run videos that you post by your team to make sure that they will be liked by your fans.

Sign up for acting classes or join a local acting studio. Take drama in high school or secondary school. Determine if you prefer stage, film or TV acting. Major in acting in college or another tertiary education option such as an acting school. Take opportunities to perform. Keep physically fit and active. Learn new skills, like singing and dancing, to broaden your talent. Practice frequently to hone your skills. Get a headshot taken by a photographer. Hire an agent. Surround yourself with other people in the acting industry. Remain persistent, even when you are rejected. Attend agent workshops. Look for open casting calls in your area. Hone your craft by practicing. Be selective when choosing roles and pick good scripts. Understand your fan base. Stay active and keep looking for new roles. Move to an acting focused city. Network through social media and YouTube.

https://www.wikihow.com/Grill-Sweet-Potatoes

How to Grill Sweet Potatoes

Before baking sweet potatoes on the grill, preheat the grill to medium. Then, wash the sweet potato and cut it in half lengthwise. Grease the cut side with butter, margarine or oil, and add any seasonings you prefer, like salt and pepper, or cinnamon and nutmeg. Tightly wrap the half in heavy duty aluminum foil and bake it on the grill for about 50 minutes. Once they're cooked, uses tongs to move them onto a plate, and add your favorite garnish, like grated cheese, before serving.

Preheat the grill. Turn on or light the grill and leave it to preheat to medium, which is about 350 °F (177 °C). You can cook the sweet potatoes on any type of grill you like, including: Gas Wood Charcoal Electric Wash the sweet potatoes. Rinse the sweet potatoes under running water. As you rinse them, use a vegetable brush or clean cloth to scrub the skin and remove dirt. Pat the sweet potatoes dry with a clean towel and place them on a cutting board. Sweet potato skins are thin and packed with nutrients, so there's no need to peel them before grilling. Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges. Hold a sweet potato steady with one hand and use a sharp knife to carefully cut it in half lengthwise. Place the halves cut-side down on the cutting board. Cut each half lengthwise into quarters, and each quarter into eighths. Each sweet potato will give you 8 wedges. You can also slice the sweet potato widthwise into quarter-inch (6-mm) medallions instead of wedges if you like. Make the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the oil, salt, lime zest, and cayenne pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to combine them into a dressing to season the sweet potato wedges. Add black pepper, to taste, and whisk to incorporate the new addition. The lime zest will help to balance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. You can substitute lemon zest for the lime zest, or add a tablespoon (15 ml) of lemon or lime juice to the dressing for even more of a citrus taste. Toss the wedges with the dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the sweet potatoes. Use a spoon to mix the sweet potatoes around in the bowl and coat them evenly with the dressing. You can season the sweet potatoes with a teaspoon (2 g) of any other herbs or spices you like, including: Cinnamon Ginger Paprika Chili powder Rosemary Thyme Chipotle powder Arrange the wedges on the hot grill. Use a pair of metal or heat-proof tongs to transfer the wedges to the grill. Arrange them diagonally on the rack in a single layer so you get the classic grill marks. Cover and grill the wedges for 40 minutes. Place a heat-proof metal lid or bowl over the wedges to keep in the heat and help them cook faster. Flip the wedges twice as they cook. Continue cooking until the sweet potatoes are tender, can be pierced easily with a fork, and are golden browned. Garnish with cilantro and serve. Remove the wedges from the grill with a metal spatula or tongs. Arrange the wedges on a serving platter and finish them with the cilantro and extra salt and pepper, to taste. Serve the wedges with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, salsa, or chipotle mayonnaise. You can use fresh parsley in place of the cilantro. Preheat the grill. Light up or turn on your grill to medium-high heat. Leave it to heat up to 375 °F (191 °C). You can use a wood, charcoal, electric, or gas grill to cook the sweet potatoes. Cut the sweet potato in half. Transfer the washed sweet potato to a cutting board. Hold the sweet potato steady with one hand, and with the other hand use a sharp knife to slice the sweet potato in half lengthwise. Butter and season the sweet potato. Use a butter knife to spread ½ tablespoon (7 g) of butter onto the cut side of each sweet potato half. Sprinkle each half with salt and pepper, to taste. You can also season the sweet potatoes with any herbs or seasonings you like, including cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne, or even rosemary. You can also replace the butter with margarine or your favorite oil. Wrap each half in foil. Cut two pieces of heavy duty foil that are each 12 by 18 inches (30 by 46 cm). Place one sweet potato half in the center of each foil sheet and wrap the foil tightly around the sweet potato. Grill the sweet potatoes for 50 minutes. Use tongs or a metal spatula to transfer the sweet potato halves to the grill. Cook the sweet potatoes for almost an hour, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The sweet potatoes are done when they are soft to the touch and tender enough to be pierced with a fork. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes. Unwrap the foil from each sweet potato half, being careful not to burn your hands when the steam escapes. You can finish the sweet potato halves with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of grated cheese, a drizzle of honey, or any herbs and spices you like. Cut the sweet potatoes into cubes. Transfer the washed sweet potatoes to a cutting board. Hold the sweet potato steady with one hand and use the other hand to cut the sweet potato into 1-inch (2.5-cm) cubes. Repeat with the second sweet potato. Transfer the cubes to a large bowl. Toss all the ingredients together. Pour the melted butter into the bowl with the sweet potatoes, and sprinkle in the sugar, cumin, cayenne, and salt and pepper. Toss everything together to evenly coat the sweet potatoes with the butter, sugar, and spices. To change the dish somewhat, stem, seed, and cut a yellow or orange pepper into cubes. Add the pepper cubes to the bowl and toss them with the other ingredients. You can use any sweetener you like in place of the brown sugar, including white sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Transfer the sweet potato to aluminum foil sheets. Cut two sheets of aluminum foil that are 12 by 18 inches (30 by 46 cm). Divide the sweet potato mixture evenly and transfer half to the center of each sheet. Fold the foil around the sweet potatoes to completely seal in the casserole. Grill the casserole for up to 30 minutes. Use a metal spatula or tongs to transfer the foil pouches to a grill that's been preheated to 375 °F (191 °C). Cook the casserole pouches for 20 to 30 minutes, turning the pouches every 10 minutes. The casserole is done when the sweet potatoes are tender. Serve hot. Use the tongs to remove the pouches from the grill. Carefully open each pouch and transfer the sweet potatoes to a single serving bowl. Serve the sweet potato casserole on its own, as an accompaniment at a picnic or barbecue, or as a side with your favorite meals.

Preheat the grill. Wash the sweet potatoes. Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges. Make the dressing. Toss the wedges with the dressing. Arrange the wedges on the hot grill. Cover and grill the wedges for 40 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve. Preheat the grill. Cut the sweet potato in half. Butter and season the sweet potato. Wrap each half in foil. Grill the sweet potatoes for 50 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes. Cut the sweet potatoes into cubes. Toss all the ingredients together. Transfer the sweet potato to aluminum foil sheets. Grill the casserole for up to 30 minutes. Serve hot.

https://www.wikihow-fun.com/Make-an-Assassin%27s-Creed-Costume

How to Make an Assassin's Creed Costume

To make an Assassin's Creed costume, start by finding a button-down shirt and a handkerchief or bandana. Next, put on the shirt, leave the top 2 or 3 buttons undone, then fold the bandana in half diagonally and tie it around your neck. After tucking the tip of the bandana into your shirt, put on a zip-up hoodie with the sleeves cut off, and leave it partially open to expose the bandana and shirt collar. Finally, tie a sash around your waist and wrap several belts over the sash.

Cut the sleeves off of a hooded sweatshirt. If you want to dress like a traditional assassin, you should cut the sleeves off of a white hooded sweatshirt. The "hoodie" will be worn over a button-down shirt to create the Assassin's Creed hood and tunic. Grey and black hoodies can work also. You can also decorate the hoodie using brass studs, patches, or any bits of "assassin" flare that you may have around the house. Wear a button-down shirt. Put the shirt on as you normally would, but do not button it all the way to the top. Instead, leave the top two or three buttons undone. Tie a bandana or handkerchief around your neck. Fold the bandana or handkerchief in half diagonally and wrap it loosely around your neck. When the bandana or handkerchief is tied, you want it to drape over your throat. Red and white are the colors that are typically associated with the "Assassin's Order," but that is not a rule. Feel free to use any color scheme that you like. Tuck the tip of the bandana or handkerchief into the shirt. The bandana or handkerchief should be tucked in so that it covers the area of the chest that has been left exposed by the shirt. Put the hoodie on over the button-down shirt. Do not zip it all the way up, however. Instead, leave it partially open to expose the bandana and the collar of the button-down shirt that you are wearing underneath. Wrap a sash around your waist. Although this is not absolutely necessary, it will add to the overall aesthetic of your assassin costume. Wrap the sash around your body so that the loose ends come to drape freely to one side your body. If you do not have a sash, you can use a bright colored t-shirt. Since you will not be able to wrap it around your waist, simply fold the t-shirt in half and tuck the the sleeve-end into one of your belts so that it drapes freely to one side of your body. Wear several belts. Don't thread the belts through any belt loops. Instead, wrap the belts around the base of the hoodie and over the sash so that they are fully exposed. The more belts the better. Assassin's are known for carrying an array of weapons and tools on them at all times. This, of course, required them to craft their own holsters, pouches, and pockets. A small-sized hip or "fanny" pack would make the perfect accessory pouch for an assassin. Download the pattern for an "Assassin's Creed" hood. Many different versions can be found online and downloaded free of charge. This tutorial will use a pattern for Connor's hood, which can be easily modified to suit any assassin. Download the pattern here: "Connor's Hood Template," by "Yulittle." Print two copies of the pattern. One will be used for the right side of the hood, and the other for the left. Cut your patterns out. Using sharp scissors, cut the patterns out as neatly as you possibly can. The neater you can trim the patterns, the easier it will be to lineup the edges of the hood pieces. Lay out your fabric and be sure to work out as many wrinkles as possible. The more wrinkles that you can work out, the easier it will be to pin and trim your patterns. Lay the patterns on top of your fabric. Carefully arrange the patterns on the fabric one at a time. Be sure that the patterns are laying perfectly flat on top of the fabric. each pattern piece to the fabric. Pin Sewing pins (not needles) have a round ball at the end opposite the tip. This helps hold the pin in place and prevents it from sliding out of the fabric or pattern. Trace the patterns onto the fabric. Use tailor's chalk to make sure that you do not stain the fabric. Do your best to make clean lines. Cut the patterns out leaving a 15mm or 5/8 of an inch margin all the way around. This margin will be your seem allowance, which has not been included in the pattern. Begin sewing the hood together. The first section that should be sewn together is the back-right section of the hood. Start with the two straight and narrow pieces. Be sure to lineup the outline marks that you made with the tailor's chalk to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned before they are sewn together. Sew on the last piece of the section. Sew on the third and final piece to finish constructing the back-right section of your hood. Do not trim off any of the excess. These margins will continue to provide you with a seam allowance as you sew all the pieces of your hood together. Sew together the next section of the hood. Just as you did with the back-right side, sew together the three panels that will form the back-left portion of your hood. Start with the two straight and narrow pieces. You will be constructing five sections that will need to be sewn together to form the final hood. Begin sewing together the sides of the hood. Each side section (left and right) of the hood will be composed of three pattern parts that will need to be sewn together. Start with the bottom two pieces of the section. Complete the side section. Sew on the final piece of the section to complete the section. Repeat the previous two steps for the other side. Once you have completed constructing the other side of the hood, you will be ready to begin sewing together all of the sections. You should now have four separate sections: left, back-left, right, and back-right. Begin the final assembly. Start by sewing the right sections of the hood together. Be sure to align the adjoining edges up as best as you can to make sure that all of the pieces of the hood are aligned properly. Sew the left sections of the hood together. Just as you did with the right, sew the left two sections of the hood together. Sew the left and right sides together. You should now have a left and right side that is ready to be sewn together. As straight as you can, sew the left and right sides together beginning in the back of the hood. Stop just as the seam begins to deviate, forming a diamond cutaway. Complete your hood by sewing in the final piece. This diamond piece will form the pointed beak that has become the trademark of an assassin's hood. If your sewing skills are up to it, try making a liner for the hood in a contrasting color. Traditionally, assassins wore pure white with crimson red highlights, but this was never a rule and was often deviated from. Measure the size of your arm to determine the dimensions of your vambrace. Begin by using a measuring tape to measure the width of your wrist. Measure the width of your forearm at its widest point. Just as you did with the wrist, use a tape measure to measure the width of your forearm at its widest point. This should be just a few inches before the bend of your elbow. Measure the distance between your wrist and the widest point on your forearm. Measure the distance between your wrist and the exact same point where you took your first measurement. This measurement will determine the length of your vambrace. Begin drawing the vambrace pattern on the inside of the leather. Using tailor's chalk, draw a straight line on the inside of your leather, synthetic leather, or suede. The length of the line should match the measurement that you took in step one. This line will be the wrist edge of your vambrace. Real leather can be expensive if purchased in large quantities. It can, however, be purchased as sample sheets and scraps for significantly reduced prices. Ostrich and alligator leather can also be purchased in samples and have very unique texture surfaces. Perfect for making your vambrace stand out. Mark the centerline. Starting in the exact center point of the line that you just made, draw a perpendicular line that matches the measurement that you took in step three. This is the centerline. If the measurement you took in step three was nine-inches, then you want to make your perpendicular line nine-inches long as well. You should have a "T" that appears to be on its side. Draw another line that is perpendicular to the center line. This line should be drawn so that it matches the measurement that you took in step two; and so that it forms another sideways "T" intersection. The distance between the two parallel lines should match the measurement that you took in step three. These will be the wrist and elbow edges of your vambrace. Make indicator dots for the connecting edges of the vambrace. Do this by making small ticks or hashmarks that are a half-inch from the endpoints of the parallel lines. Each line has two endpoints, so you should make four ticks or hashmark. Use a straight edge to connect the dots. Draw a straight line to connect the dots that you made on each of the parallel lines. Once you are done, you should have a trapezoid shape that has been sized to the dimensions of your arm. Cut the pattern out. Using a rotary cutter and a straight edge, or a razor, cut the trapezoid pattern out. Leather shears will work, but are not necessary for working with synthetics. Create a guiding line for the eyelets. Using a straight edge, draw a line that parallels the edge of your vambrace. Leave at least a quarter-inch gap between the edge of the vambrace and the guiding line. Do this on both edges, on both vambraces. Use a leather punch tool to create eyelets along the guiding line. Begin a half-inch from the wrist-edge of your vambrace and continue working your way up to the forearm, leaving approximately an inch between each eyelet. The exact amount of eyelets in your vambrace and their spacing is entirely up to you. Leather punch tools can be purchased relatively inexpensive online. Or, you can use a drill. Avoid "cutting" the eyelets. Straight cuts will eventually tear, so be sure to use a leather punch to create circular openings in the leather. Lace up the vambrace. Just as you would a shoe, begin lacing up your vambrace with a leather shoestring. Begin at the wrist and work your way toward the forearm. If the tip of the shoestring has been frayed, wrap it with some masking tape. This will make it easier to insert into the eyelets. Decorate your vambrace with brass studs. Since vambraces and "hidden blades" are unique to each assassin, the exact number of studs and their placement is entirely up to you. Brass studs come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be purchased at your local craft store. Some studs will need to be pushed into the leather, while others will need to be glued. Follow the instructions that come with your studs to be sure that they are properly installed. Continue customizing your vambrace. Depending on the type of leather you choose, you may want to decorate your vambrace to make it stand out. This means you can decorate your vambrace to represent any time period or civilization that you choose. Remember, each assassin is unique. Try embossing or stamping patterns and designs into the leather. Try adding a leather strap and buckle to your vambrace.

Cut the sleeves off of a hooded sweatshirt. Wear a button-down shirt. Tie a bandana or handkerchief around your neck. Tuck the tip of the bandana or handkerchief into the shirt. Put the hoodie on over the button-down shirt. Wrap a sash around your waist. Wear several belts. Download the pattern for an "Assassin's Creed" hood. Print two copies of the pattern. Cut your patterns out. Lay out your fabric and be sure to work out as many wrinkles as possible. Lay the patterns on top of your fabric. each pattern piece to the fabric. Trace the patterns onto the fabric. Cut the patterns out leaving a 15mm or 5/8 of an inch margin all the way around. Begin sewing the hood together. Sew on the last piece of the section. Sew together the next section of the hood. Begin sewing together the sides of the hood. Complete the side section. Repeat the previous two steps for the other side. Begin the final assembly. Sew the left sections of the hood together. Sew the left and right sides together. Complete your hood by sewing in the final piece. Measure the size of your arm to determine the dimensions of your vambrace. Measure the width of your forearm at its widest point. Measure the distance between your wrist and the widest point on your forearm. Begin drawing the vambrace pattern on the inside of the leather. Mark the centerline. Draw another line that is perpendicular to the center line. Make indicator dots for the connecting edges of the vambrace. Use a straight edge to connect the dots. Cut the pattern out. Create a guiding line for the eyelets. Use a leather punch tool to create eyelets along the guiding line. Lace up the vambrace. Decorate your vambrace with brass studs. Continue customizing your vambrace.

https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-Quarter-Round

How to Cut Quarter Round

To cut a piece of quarter round, first measure the length of your walls so you can select the correct length of quarter round pieces. Line up your pieces against the wall and mark the spots you need to cut with a pencil. Make your cuts based on your markings, remembering to cut at a 45-degree angle to improve the finish. If you're cutting a joint piece, angle the 45-degree cuts in the same direction, so that they both angle left. Alternatively, cut the angles in opposite directions if they'll meet in a corner. Once you've determined how to cut your pieces, make sure to put on gloves and protective eye wear before using your miter saw.

Select your pieces of quarter round. Quarter round is available in 8 foot (240 cm) long pieces, or 16 foot (490 cm) long pieces. If you don't already know the width of your walls, you will need to measure them. Select pieces that closely match the width of your walls and purchase them. For most rooms, 8 foot (240 cm) long pieces are easier to work with. Quarter round is available at most home improvement stores. Line up your quarter round against the wall and make pencil marks. Place your pieces of quarter round on the floor up against the wall. In this position, you can easily mark the locations for your cuts. Make small pencil marks to indicate the places where you will need to trim your quarter round. Determine the angle and direction of your cut. Each piece of quarter round will end at either a joint, a corner, or a door jamb. Quarter round will always be cut at an angle, usually 45 degrees. Cut 2 joint pieces at 45-degree angles in the same direction (meaning both angled to the left, or both to the right). These joint pieces should fit together to form a flat line against the wall. Most corners will be 90-degree angles. For most corners, cut corner pieces at 45-degree angles in opposite directions (one to the left and one to the right, so that they fit together). For corners that are very different from 90 degrees, measure the angle with a protractor , and divide this number by 2 to determine the angle of your cuts. If your quarter round will end at an obstruction, cut at a 45-degree angle and attach a quarter round return. Use a miter box and hand saw to cut your quarter round. Slide a piece of quarter round into your miter box and use the pins to secure it. Locate the slot that represents the correct angle for your cut. Steady the miter box with your non-dominant hand, and hold the saw in your dominant hand. Apply pressure with the saw and move it back and forth over the quarter round until your cut is finished. A miter box and saw set can be purchased at most home improvement stores, or online. Remember to wear gloves and protective eye wear. Always exercise caution when using a saw. Line up your quarter round and make marks with a pencil. Place a length of quarter round up against your wall. Use a small pencil mark to indicate where the quarter round meets the door jamb (or other obstruction). Use a miter box and saw to make a 45-degree cut. Place your quarter round into a miter box and secure it with the pins provided. Cut your wood at a 45-degree angle, angled away from the door jamb. The pencil marking you made should form the corner of your 45-degree angle. You can purchase a miter box and saw set from most home improvement stores, or online. Wear gloves and protective eye wear. Always be careful when using a saw. Create an end cap. Take another piece of small piece quarter round and place it into your miter box. Use your saw to make a 45-degree cut, angled in the opposite direction (if your previous cut in the quarter round was angled to the left, this one will angle to the right). Change the angle of your saw and make a straight cut about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) away from your angle cut. You should end up with an end cap that is flat on one side and a 45-degree angle on the other side. Match up the pieces. Line up the longer piece of quarter round up against the wall where it will go. Spin your end cap so that the flat cut is up against the wall, the angle cut is against the other piece of quarter round, and the finished side is visible.

Select your pieces of quarter round. Line up your quarter round against the wall and make pencil marks. Determine the angle and direction of your cut. Use a miter box and hand saw to cut your quarter round. Line up your quarter round and make marks with a pencil. Use a miter box and saw to make a 45-degree cut. Create an end cap. Match up the pieces.

https://www.wikihow.com/Have-Fun-with-Your-Cat

How to Have Fun with Your Cat

To have fun with your cat, get a variety of toys and have a few short play sessions at different times throughout the day to keep your kitty happy and stimulated. Many cats love catnip, so you can buy catnip-filled toys or give your cat loose catnip to make play time extra fun. Multi-tiered cat trees, which you can build yourself or buy at pet stores, can give your kitty something fun to romp around on when you're not home.

Make sure your cat has a place or places to call its own. This can be a cat bed, or a corner of a room set aside for it. As any cat owner knows, however, a cat will claim spots for itself, which might be your favorite chair, or computer, or pillow. Playing “on your feet, lose your seat” with your cat can be a little frustrating, but that's part of the fun of having a cat! Get your cat a scratching post. These are made of various rough materials (cardboard, rope, carpet, etc.) that cats can scratch and enjoy. They are readily available at pet supply stores. Buy or build a cat “tree” for your cat to play on. These can have multiple sections and tiers, with areas for your cat to scratch, for toys to hang on, tunnels or boxes to climb, etc. You can find these at pet supply stores. Put containers of cat grass inside your home. Cat grass can give your cat a bit of nature indoors. This type of plant is safe for cats to eat, and is readily available from pet supply stores. Plant some in a pot (or a few!) and set it around your house for your cat to explore. You'll enjoy watching your cat try to eat it. Let your cat have access to a window, if you can. Cats love to watch birds, squirrels, and other creatures, and to keep an eye on outside activity. A window can be a great source of entertainment, especially if you have a cat who stays indoors permanently. Try safe places for an indoor cat to spend some time outdoors. An enclosed outdoor space can be a fun way for your indoor cat to get a taste of the outdoors. For instance, if you have a screened-in area of a home, such as a porch or sunroom, you can let your cat have access to it. Walk your cat on a leash. Cat leashes are available at pet supply stores. They have a small harness and lead for you to walk a cat much as you would a dog. Not every cat will cooperate with a leash, so it take some time to train your cat to walk on a leash. It is easiest to start while the cat is young so it can get used to it. Let your cat play outdoors, if it is safe to do so. Outdoor cats can have fun pouncing on things, hiding and sneaking, and hunting small creatures. If you want to start bringing an outdoor cat indoors, do so slowly. Gradually have it spend more time indoors. You will also have to have patience while getting it used to using a litterbox, scratching post, and other indoor things. Play with your cat often. Cats are active creatures, but typically will play in short bursts of 5-15 minutes. It's a great idea for cats to play frequently, so try having a few short play sessions at different times during the day. Get your cat some designated toys. Many cats enjoy having their own toys. Choose toys that will allow your cat to mimic its natural hunting behavior--things it can chase, pounce, or catch, for instance. Cats have individual personalities, so you might have to try a few different toys to find what yours likes. You can also change toys occasionally (every day or few days) to keep your cat from getting bored. Good toys can include: Wand toys with something at the end Rubber balls, or any soft or bouncy toy. Cats like to bat things with their paws. Catnip toys Crinkly stuff, like bubble wrap or paper bags Laser pointers might be fun, but they can also frustrate your cat. Play hide-and-seek with your cat. Hide from your cat and try to attract their attention so it can find you, or let your cat hide in something while you find it. Bags and boxes are great for this. In fact, your cat might play with one all by itself if you leave it lying around. Let your cat have some catnip. The catnip plant is a member of the mint family. For reasons not entirely understood, many cats react enthusiastically to catnip—it may make them roll and flip around, act highly stimulated, or appear especially content.. You can safely give your cat catnip in various ways. You can try: Buying a catnip-filled toy. Making your own catnip toy. Fill a plastic easter egg with some loose catnip (found at pet supply stores) and watch your cat have fun sniffing and pawing it. Sprinkling some loose catnip on one of your cat's things, like a toy or scratching post. Entice your cat with treats. Take a paper towel roll and put some shredded paper in it along with some treats and maybe some catnip. Watch your cat enjoy trying to get at the treats inside. Play with your cat often, but know its limits. Each cat will want to play in particular ways and at particular times, so pay attention to your cat's preferences. Following a few tips can help you keep your cat happy and interested: Don't let your cat win all the time, or lose all the time. Don't force your cat to play with you. If it doesn't seem interested in one thing, try another. If it's still not interested, wait and try playing another time. Stop playing if your cat becomes unusually aggressive. It might need to “cool off” for a while, or it might prefer to play a different way. Have fun with your cat but make sure it’s not in pain. If you notice signs that your cat doesn't want to play, or is having trouble playing, don't force it to. You may need to contact a veterinarian if you see signs that your cat is in pain, such as: Hesitation before jumping Walking slowly up stairs or over other obstacles Not landing correctly when jumping Catproof your house. If you have an indoor cat, or an outdoor cat that spends time indoors, then you want it to play freely while staying safe. For instance: Store cleaning supplies and other chemicals in securely sealed containers out of your cat's reach. Certain common houseplants (like ivy and mistletoe) are toxic to cats, so keep them away. Cats sometimes like to crawl into small or dark places like cabinets and closets. Make sure that your cat does not get trapped inside one, especially if it has a habit of crawling inside. Catproof your outdoor area. If you have a cat that spends all or part of its time outdoors, you can have fun watching it pounce, stalk, and hide. You can give it toys or let it play with things it finds outside. Just make sure to give your cat a tag in case it gets lost, and make sure it is protected from anything dangerous (poisonous plants, predators, cars, etc.).

Make sure your cat has a place or places to call its own. Get your cat a scratching post. Buy or build a cat “tree” for your cat to play on. Put containers of cat grass inside your home. Let your cat have access to a window, if you can. Try safe places for an indoor cat to spend some time outdoors. Walk your cat on a leash. Let your cat play outdoors, if it is safe to do so. Play with your cat often. Get your cat some designated toys. Play hide-and-seek with your cat. Let your cat have some catnip. Entice your cat with treats. Play with your cat often, but know its limits. Have fun with your cat but make sure it’s not in pain. Catproof your house. Catproof your outdoor area.

https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-Bank-Interest-on-Savings

How to Calculate Bank Interest on Savings

To calculate bank interest on savings, use the formula for calculating the effect of compound interest on your bank balance. In this formula, “P” stands for the principal, “r” is the annual rate of interest, and n is the number of times the interest is compounded per year. “A” is the balance of the account you are calculating, including the effects of interest, and “t” represents the periods of time over which the interest accumulates. Once you input all of these figures into the formula, you will be have the compound interest.

Know the formula for calculating the effect of compound interest. The formula for calculating compound interest accumulation on a given account balance is: A = P ( 1 + ( r n ) ) n ∗ t {\displaystyle A=P(1+({\frac {r}{n}}))^{n*t}}. (P) is the principal (P), (r) is the annual rate of interest, and (n) is the number of times the interest is compounded per year. (A) is the balance of the account you are calculating including the effects of interest. (t) represents the periods of time over which the interest is accumulating. It should match with the interest rate you are using (e.g. if the interest rate is an annual rate, (t) should be a number/fraction years). To determine the appropriate fraction of years for a given time period, simply divide the total number of months by 12 or divide the total number of days by 365. Determine the variables used in the formula. Review the terms of your personal savings account or contact a representative from your bank to fill in the equation. The principal (P) represents either the initial amount deposited into the account or the current amount that you will be measuring from for your interest calculation. The interest rate (r) should be in decimal form. A 3% interest rate should be entered as 0.03. To get this number, simply divide the stated percentage rate by 100. The value of (n) is the number of times per year the interest is calculated and added onto your balance (aka compounds). Interest most commonly compounds monthly (n=12), quarterly (n=4), or yearly (n=1) but there can be other options, depending on your specific account terms. The standard interest rates for many savings accounts are typically around 1.8%. Plug your values into the formula. Once you have determined the amounts of each variable, insert them into the compound interest formula to determine the interest earned over the specified time scale. For example, using the values P=$1000, r=0.05 (5%), n=4 (compounded quarterly), and t=1 year, we get the following equation: A = $ 1000 ( 1 + ( 0.05 4 ) ) 4 ∗ 1 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1+({\frac {0.05}{4}}))^{4*1}}. Interest compounded daily is found in a similar way, except you would substitute 365 for the 4 used above for variable (n). Crunch the numbers. Now that the numbers are in, it's time to solve the formula. Start by simplifying the simple parts of the equation. This includes dividing the annual rate by the number of periods to get the periodic rate (in this case 0.05 4 = 0.0125 {\displaystyle {\frac {0.05}{4}}=0.0125} ) and solving the object n ∗ t {\displaystyle n*t} which here is just 4 ∗ 1 {\displaystyle 4*1}. This will yield the following equation: A = $ 1000 ( 1 + ( 0.0125 ) ) 4 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1+(0.0125))^{4}}. This is then further simplified by solving for the object within the parenthesis, 1 + 0.0125 = 1.0125 {\displaystyle 1+0.0125=1.0125}. The equation will now look like this: A = $ 1000 ( 1.0125 ) 4 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1.0125)^{4}}. Solve the equation. Next, solve the exponent by raising the result of the last step to the power of four (aka 1.0125 ∗ 1.0125 ∗ 1.0125 ∗ 1.0125 {\displaystyle 1.0125*1.0125*1.0125*1.0125} ). This will give you 1.051 {\displaystyle 1.051}. Your equation is now simply: A = $ 1000 ( 1.051 ) {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1.051)}. Multiply these two numbers together to get A = $ 1051 {\displaystyle A=\$1051}. This is your account value with 5% interest (compounded quarterly) after one year. Note that this is slightly higher than $ 1000 ∗ 5 % {\displaystyle \$1000*5\%} that you may have expected when the annual interest rate was quoted to you. This illustrates the importance of understanding how and when your interest compounds! The interest earned is the difference between A and P, so total interest earned = $ 1051 − $ 1000 = $ 51 {\displaystyle =\$1051-\$1000=\$51}. Use the accumulated savings formula first. You can also calculate interest on an account to which you are making regular monthly contributions. This is useful if you save a certain amount each month and put that money into your savings account. The full equation is as follows: A = P ( 1 + ( r n ) ) n t + P M T ∗ ( 1 + r n ) n t − 1 r n {\displaystyle A=P(1+({\frac {r}{n}}))^{nt}+PMT*{\frac {(1+{\frac {r}{n}})^{nt}-1}{\frac {r}{n}}}} An easy approach is to separate the compounding interest for the principal from that of the monthly contributions (or payments/PMT). To begin, calculate the interest on the principal first using the accumulated savings formula. As has been described with this formula, you can calculate the interest earned on your savings account with recurring monthly deposits and interest compounded daily, monthly or quarterly. Use the second part of the formula to calculate the interest on your contributions. (PMT) represents your monthly contribution amount. Identify your variables. Check your account or investment agreement to find the following variables: principal "P", the annual rate of interest "r", and the number of periods per year "n". If these variables are not readily available to you, contact your bank and ask for this information. The variable "t" represents the number of years, or portions of years, being calculated and "PMT" represents the payment/contribution made each month. The account value "A" represents the total value of the account after your chosen time period and contributions. The principal "P" represents either the balance of the account on the date that you will be starting the calculation from. The interest rate "r" represents the interest paid on the account each year. It should be expressed as a decimal in the equation. That is, a 3% interest rate should be entered as 0.03. To get this number, simply divide the stated percentage rate by 100. The value of "n" simply represents the number of times the interest is compounded each year. This should be 365 for interest compounded daily, 12 for monthly, and 4 for quarterly. Similarly, the value for "t" represents the number of years you will be calculating your future interest for. This should be either the number of years or the portion of a year if you are measuring less than a year (e.g. 0.0833 (1/12) for one month). Input your values into the formula. Using the example of P=$1000, r=0.05 (5%), n=12 (compounded monthly), t=3 years, and PMT=$100, we get the following equation: A = $ 1000 ( 1 + ( 0.05 12 ) ) 12 ∗ 3 + $ 100 ∗ ( 1 + 0.05 12 ) 12 ∗ 3 − 1 0.05 12 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1+({\frac {0.05}{12}}))^{12*3}+\$100*{\frac {(1+{\frac {0.05}{12}})^{12*3}-1}{\frac {0.05}{12}}}} Simplify the equation. Begin by simplifying the object r n {\displaystyle {\frac {r}{n}}} where possible by dividing the rate, 0.05, by 12. This simplifies to A = $ 1000 ( 1 + ( 0.00417 ) ) 12 ∗ 3 + $ 100 ∗ ( 1 + 0.00417 ) 12 ∗ 3 − 1 0.00417 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1+(0.00417))^{12*3}+\$100*{\frac {(1+0.00417)^{12*3}-1}{0.00417}}} You can also simplify by adding one to the rate within the parentheses. The equation will now look like this: A = $ 1000 ( 1.00417 ) ) 12 ∗ 3 + $ 100 ∗ ( 1.00417 ) 12 ∗ 3 − 1 0.00417 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1.00417))^{12*3}+\$100*{\frac {(1.00417)^{12*3}-1}{0.00417}}} Solve the exponents. First, solve the figures within the exponents, n ∗ t {\displaystyle n*t} , which give 12 ∗ 3 = 36 {\displaystyle 12*3=36}. Then, solve the exponents to simplify the equation to A = $ 1000 ( 1.1616 ) + $ 100 ∗ 1.1616 − 1 0.00417 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1.1616)+\$100*{\frac {1.1616-1}{0.00417}}} Simplify by subtracting the one to get A = $ 1000 ( 1.1616 ) + $ 100 ∗ 0.1616 0.00417 {\displaystyle A=\$1000(1.1616)+\$100*{\frac {0.1616}{0.00417}}} Make the final calculations. Multiply the first part of the equation to get $1,616. Solve the second part of the equation by first dividing the numerator by the denominator of the fraction to get 0.1616 0.00417 = 38.753 {\displaystyle {\frac {0.1616}{0.00417}}=38.753}. Multiply this number by the value of the payment (in this case $100) to get the second part of the equation. Our equation is now: A = $ 1616 + $ 3875.30 = $ 5 , 491.30 {\displaystyle A=\$1616+\$3875.30=\$5,491.30}. The account value under these conditions would be $ 5 , 491.30 {\displaystyle \$5,491.30}. Calculate your total interest earned. In this equation, actual interest earned would be the total amount (A) minus the principal (P) and the number of payments times the payment amount (PMT*n*t). So, in the example, I n t e r e s t = $ 5491.30 − $ 1000 − $ 100 ( 12 ∗ 3 ) {\displaystyle Interest=\$5491.30-\$1000-\$100(12*3)} and then $ 5491.30 − $ 1000 − $ 3600 = $ 891.30 {\displaystyle \$5491.30-\$1000-\$3600=\$891.30}. Open a new spreadsheet. Excel and other similar spreadsheet programs (e.g. Google Sheets) allow you to save time on the math behind these calculations and even offer shortcuts in the form of built-in financial functions to help you calculate compounding interest. Label your variables. When using a spreadsheet, it's always helpful to be as organized and clear as possible. Start by labeling a column of cells with the key information you'll be using in your calculation (e.g. interest rate, principal, time, n, payment). Type in your variables. Now fill out the data you have about your specific account in the next column over. This not only makes the the spreadsheet easier to read and interpret later, it also leaves room for you to change one or more of your variables later on in order to look at different possible savings scenarios. Create your equation. The next step is to type in your own version of the accumulated interest equation ( A = P ( 1 + ( r n ) ) n ∗ t {\displaystyle A=P(1+({\frac {r}{n}}))^{n*t}} ) or the extended version which takes into account your regular monthly contributions to the account ( A = P ( 1 + ( r n ) ) n t + P M T ∗ ( 1 + r n ) n t − 1 r n {\displaystyle A=P(1+({\frac {r}{n}}))^{nt}+PMT*{\frac {(1+{\frac {r}{n}})^{nt}-1}{\frac {r}{n}}}} ). Use any blank cell, begin with an "=", and use normal math conventions (parentheses as necessary) to type the appropriate equation. Instead of entering variables like (P) and (n), type in the corresponding cell names where you have stored those data values or else simply click the appropriate cell while editing your equation. Use financial functions. Excel also offers certain financial functions that may help your calculation. Specifically, "future value" (FV) may be of use because it calculates the value of an account at some point in the future given the same set of variables you've now become accustomed to. To access this function go to any blank cell and type "=FV(". Excel should then bring up a guidance window as soon as you open the function parenthesis in order to help you insert the appropriate parameters into your function. The future value function is designed with paying an account balance down as it continues to accumulate interest instead of with accumulating savings account interest. Because of this it automatically yields a negative number. Counteract this issue by typing = − 1 ∗ F V ( {\displaystyle =-1*FV(} The FV function takes similar data parameters separated by commas but not exactly the same ones. For instance, "rate" refers to r / n {\displaystyle r/n} (the annual interest rate divided by "n"). This will calculate automatically from within the FV function's parenthesis. The parameter "nper" refers to the variable n ∗ t {\displaystyle n*t} - the total number of periods over which interest is accumulating and the total number of payments. In other words, if your PMT is not 0, the FV function will assume you are contributing the PMT amount across each and every period as defined by "nper". Note that this function is most often used for (things like) calculating how a mortgage principal is paid down over time by regular payments. For instance if you plan to contribute every month for 5 years, "nper" would be 60 (5 years * 12 months). PMT is your regular contribution amount over the entire period (one contribution per "n") "[pv]" (aka Present Value) is the principal amount - your account's starting balance. The final variable, "[type]" can be left blank for this calculation (when it is the function sets it automatically to 0). The FV function allows for you to do basic calculations within the function parameters, for instance the completed FV function could look like − 1 ∗ F V (.05 / 12 , 12 , 100 , 5000 ) {\displaystyle -1*FV(.05/12,12,100,5000)}. This would signify a 5% annual interest rate which compounded monthly for 12 months, over which time you contribute $100/month and your starting (principal) balance is $5000. The answer to this function will tell you the account balance after 1 year ($6483.70).

Know the formula for calculating the effect of compound interest. Determine the variables used in the formula. Plug your values into the formula. Crunch the numbers. Solve the equation. Use the accumulated savings formula first. Use the second part of the formula to calculate the interest on your contributions. Identify your variables. Input your values into the formula. Simplify the equation. Solve the exponents. Make the final calculations. Calculate your total interest earned. Open a new spreadsheet. Label your variables. Type in your variables. Create your equation. Use financial functions.

https://www.wikihow.com/Freeze-Cheesecake

How to Freeze Cheesecake

To freeze cheesecake that's already been sliced, wrap the individual slices in aluminum foil and put them in freezer bags. Then, store the slices in the freezer for up to a month. If you want to freeze cheesecake that hasn't been sliced yet, put the whole cheesecake on a piece of cardboard wrapped in aluminum foil. Then, wrap the cheesecake and cardboard with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to a month.

Let the entire cheesecake cool for 4 hours. Most cheesecake recipes have a final step that involves chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours and sometimes even longer. Make sure to let the cheesecake cool completely before freezing it. Freeze it uncovered for about 1 hour. Carefully place your cheesecake in the freezer as is. Keep it in there for about 1 hour and then take it out again. Move the cheesecake from its pan to cardboard. Get a durable piece of cardboard that's at least as big as the cheesecake lengthwise and widthwise. Wrap the piece of cardboard in aluminum foil. Loosen the edges of the cheesecake with a dull knife and then carefully lift it out of the pan it's in. Place the cheesecake directly on top of the cardboard. If you baked the cheesecake in a springform pan, carefully remove the sides of the pan before transporting the cheesecake. The best way to transport the cheesecake is with three spatulas and the help of a friend. Wrap the cheesecake in plastic wrap and foil. In order to protect your cheesecake from freezer burn, you'll need to keep it separated from the cold air. Wrap the entire cheesecake, including the cardboard it's on, with two layers of plastic wrap followed by one layer of aluminum foil. Label and date the cheesecake. Write the date and the type of cheesecake on the aluminum foil with a permanent marker. This way, you can keep track of how long your cheesecake is frozen. Keep it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Put the cheesecake back in the freezer. It may still be safe to eat after two or three months, but it'll taste best if eaten within one month. As you put the cheesecake in the freezer, carefully place it to ensure it doesn't get crushed by the weight of other foods. If you thaw the cheesecake and you notice that it's dry, the crust is moist, and/or the edges of the cheesecake are brown or tan, it's most likely no longer safe to eat. Chill the whole cheesecake. Cool the whole cheesecake in the refrigerator for as long as your recipe instructs, or for a minimum of 4 hours. It's important that the cheesecake is completely chilled before being frozen. Put the uncovered cheesecake in the freezer for 1 hour. Freeze the whole cheesecake in a safe spot in the freezer where it won't get damaged. Take it out after one hour. If your cheesecake is already sliced, put all of the uncovered slices in the freezer for an hour. Dip a knife in hot water and slice the cheesecake. Fill a tall drinking glass with hot water and put a thin steel knife in the glass. Take the knife out and cut the cheesecake in half. Dip the knife back in the water before cutting it into fourths. Continue this until you have eight slices. Dipping a knife in hot water before and between slicing will make cutting easier and smoother. Wrap each slice in foil and put it in a freezer bag. Place one piece of cheesecake on a sheet of aluminum foil. Wrap it completely in the sheet of foil, put it in a freezer-safe plastic bag, and seal the bag. Repeat this process for every cheesecake slice. Label and date each bag. Write the date and the type of cheesecake on every plastic bag with permanent marker. This will help you remember how long your slices have been frozen. Freeze the slices for up to one month. Return your slices to the freezer and keep them frozen for a maximum of one month to ensure optimum tastiness. Put the slices somewhere in your freezer where things won't be placed on top of them so that they don't get damaged. Move whole cheesecakes to the refrigerator overnight. When you're ready to eat your cheesecake, move it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Keep it there overnight to prevent condensation and to keep the cheesecake's structure intact. Let a whole cheesecake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. After it has thawed in the refrigerator overnight, place the cheesecake on your kitchen counter for half an hour before serving it. Ideally, the cheesecake should be kept at room temperature, or 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius), during this time. Put a slice in the microwave for 45-60 seconds on defrost. If you separated your cheesecake into slices, take a slice out of its bag and remove its foil. Put it on a plate and heat it in the microwave for 45-60 seconds. Make or thaw any toppings and put them on the cheesecake. Prepare any toppings or decorations , such as strawberries and whipped cream or chocolate sauce and chopped nuts, and put them on the cheesecake. Serve and enjoy! Do not freeze cheesecake with the toppings already on it. Keep them separate until just before serving and eating.

Let the entire cheesecake cool for 4 hours. Freeze it uncovered for about 1 hour. Move the cheesecake from its pan to cardboard. Wrap the cheesecake in plastic wrap and foil. Label and date the cheesecake. Keep it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Chill the whole cheesecake. Put the uncovered cheesecake in the freezer for 1 hour. Dip a knife in hot water and slice the cheesecake. Wrap each slice in foil and put it in a freezer bag. Label and date each bag. Freeze the slices for up to one month. Move whole cheesecakes to the refrigerator overnight. Let a whole cheesecake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Put a slice in the microwave for 45-60 seconds on defrost. Make or thaw any toppings and put them on the cheesecake.