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How to Teach Adverbs | Adverbs are words that can modify another adverb, an adjective, or a verb in a sentence. Adverbs play a critical role in grammar by providing an extra level of information and detail. They also answer critical questions, such as when, where, or how. If you are teaching your students adverb usage, start by explaining the basic categories of adverbs. Then, move into a series of exercises where students can practice constructing sentences using a variety of adverbs.
1. **Identify all of the possible questions that adverbs can answer.** Adverbs are added to sentences in order to provide an additional level of clarity or detail. When you are teaching students, remind them of the importance of adverbs by listing out the questions that they can respond to. Ask your students to offer suggestions and write them on the board.
For example, adverbs can address the questions of, “How? How much? In what condition? When? Where? Why?”
At this time, you may also want to have students ask, “Does the word end in –ly?” This is an easy way for younger students to identify adverbs.
2. **List out all of the adverb categories.** It’s important for students to know that there are a few specific categories that different adverbs fall into. Explain to your students that learning about categories of adverbs will make them easier to identify and modify. Discuss how there are adverbs that provide descriptions of time, location, and the manner of events or actions.
For example, adverbs of time include answers to questions regarding frequency and timing. Soon, early, and tomorrow are adverbs of time.
Adverbs of location help to answer the question of, “Where?” Upstairs, downstairs, and inside are all adverbs of location.
Adverbs of manner help to answer the question of, “How?” Sadly, quietly, and quickly are all adverbs of manner.
3. **Ask your students what questions they have about adverbs.** After you’ve provided a general explanation of what adverbs are and what categories they can belong to, open the floor to any student questions about sentence construction and adverbs.
Give yourself plenty of teaching time for this conversation, as it might take several minutes.
Expect younger students to have fewer questions. They’ll likely require more instruction on the basics of sentence construction as well.
4. **Create a noun/action manner list with your students.** Together as a class, come up with a list of at least 10 simple nouns paired with verbs representing a possible action. Then, ask your students to create possible sentences using the noun/verb pairings along with an adverb. Write these sentence options up on the board for all to see.
For example, for a pairing of rabbit/hop, a sentence might look like, “A rabbit hops hurriedly.”
This is an exercise that is suitable for all levels. For beginner students, start out the list with a few examples that they can mirror.
You should get a number of different sentence suggestions for each pairing. That is part of the exercise. It shows how adverbs of manner can define a sentence. For example, for a pairing of dog/bark, a sentence might look like, “A dog barks loudly.” Or, “A dog barks excitedly.”
5. **Work on adverbs of place via sentence construction.** Ask your students to create a list of adverbs that end with “-wards.” Then, get them to construct sentences using this directional adverbs and write these up on the board. It’s helpful if you have students create sentences that show actions that follow these adverbs and those that do not work with these adverbs.
For example, a student might say, “A shooting star falls downwards.”
If a student tries to use the word “towards,” you’ll need to explain that that is a preposition.
Because this exercise requires a wide-ranging vocabulary, it is better suited for moderate- or advanced-level students.
6. **Practice time adverbs by asking “How long?”** Go from student to student asking each of them a question starting with, “How long…?” One of the rules of this game is that each student must answer this question starting with the adverb of time “for.” Then, they state a particular length of time.
To mix it up, ask questions from both the past and present.
For example, you might ask, “How long have you been in school?” Your students could answer, “For 5 years.”
This is great exercise for beginner students, as it eases them into an understanding of adverb importance.
7. **Play a walk-around adverb game.** Start at one corner of your classroom and slowly walk around the room. Ask your students to be quiet during this time. Then, go to the board and write, “The teacher walked,” in large letters. Ask your students to tell you how, when, and where you walked.
Record their responses on the board. Go through and circle the adverbs. They’ll find that they just provided a number of adverbs very quickly.
All levels of students can benefit from this teaching exercise.
8. **Ask students to transform adjectives into adverbs.** Get your students to come up with a list of adjectives. Then, work your way down the list as a class. Look for adverbs that can be transformed into adverbs by adding “-ly” on to the end.
For example, your students might transform the word “loud” into “loudly.”
9. **Complete a correction-based exercise.** Students like this learning approach because it allows them to approach grammar like it is a game. Divide your students into pairs. The first student makes a false statement including an adverb. Then, the second student uses the same sentence, but replaces the adverb with one of their own.
It’s important that the initial statement is false or inaccurate because this allows the student’s partner to play the part of teacher and offer a correction. An example pairing might be a first sentence of, “The dog barks quietly.” The corrected sentence might be, “The dog barks loudly.”
Don’t just stick to 2 rounds of this exercise. The students should go back and forth with the same sentence multiple times. Advanced students, in particular, can usually keep this game going for up to 30 minutes.
For example, the first student might say, “The athlete moves inelegantly.” The second student might alter it to, “The athlete moves quickly.”
10. **Practice adverbs of place with a spatial exercise.** Pair your students up and have them walk around the classroom together. They should take turns stating sentences that include “here” and “there” paired along with common prepositions, such as “down.” Ask your students to only use “here” for something relatively close by and “there” for an item farther away.
Other prepositions that your students can use, include up, over, under, and through.
For example, a student might state,” The ceiling is up there.” Or, “my desk is over there.”
This is a fun exercise for all levels of students, as it gets them connecting adverbs to their environment.
11. **Do a card game to teach students frequency adverbs.** Give each student pair a pack of notecards with a single frequency adverb written on each one. Instruct them to ask each other questions where frequency adverbs are the answers. A student has to give up their card if they are asked a question with that adverb as the answer.
Some common adverbs of frequency are: sometimes, rarely, almost never, hardly ever, always, and usually.
This is an exercise more effective for advanced students, due to the complex nuances between the various adverbs. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-Adverbs", "language": "en"} |
How to Shop Online | Are you tired of driving to the mall and fighting the crowds just to get the things you want and need? Online shopping has become a massive industry, and is more secure than ever. You can find virtually any product online, as long as you know where to look. You can also find some of the best deals. See Step 1 below to learn how to find what you want and buy it with confidence and security.
1. **Do a web search for your item.** One of the most effective ways to quickly find sites that are selling the product you want is to simply search for the product using a search engine like Google, Yahoo!, or Bing. If the product is popular, you will receive several pages of links to shops that offer it. You can use this as a starting point for comparing prices.
2. **Look for your product on Amazon.** Beyond selling products themselves, Amazon acts as a liaison between you and a massive number of third-party vendors. The companies and people all use Amazon as a way to list products and use the Amazon payment system. This means Amazon and its third-party vendors has one of the largest inventories available on the planet
Amazon allows for vendors to sell used goods, so be aware of the product you are buying if you need it new.
3. **Check auction sites.** For harder to find items, check online auction sites. These are a little more hands-on than simply purchasing from a store, but you can potentially find good deals and rare items if you take the time. See this guide for tips on auction sites.
Auction sites have a lot more rules and regulations than traditional stores, and require a fair amount of input from you, the buyer. Make sure that you are familiar with all of the rules and regulations before you begin bidding.
4. **Visit market-specific sites.** Beyond the big-name stores and auction sites, there are also a variety of marketplaces that cater to specific markets. You may be able to find better deals for what you need, or bulk options that weren't available in the big stores.
Don't forget to check the product manufacturer's site as well. You may be able to save some money buying direct from the manufacturer instead of through a retailer. Not all manufacturers have their own online stores.
There are a variety of sites that will collect prices from a wide selection of online stores and return a comparison.
5. **Look at deal aggregation sites.** A lot of forums and sites exist for finding deals on specific items. These sites are mostly geared for specific markets, such as deals on electronics, books, and more. If you aren't looking for specific items but want to stay informed about the latest deals on products that interest you, these are great services.
6. **Trust your gut.** If you start to feel pressured into a purchase or you feel that the deal may be too good to be true, trust your instincts and avoid the sale. There are plenty of people who offer get-rich-quick schemes and "life-changing" products, but these should all be met with a hefty dose of skepticism.
Always read reviews of the seller and the product before making any purchases.
7. **Note the shipping costs.** Even if you find an amazing deal on an item, it might be offset by what you have to pay to ship it. If the shipping costs are outrageous, ask yourself if it's worth paying to ship as opposed to getting it from the store downtown.
Compare the costs of different shipping methods. If you don't need it immediately, you could save yourself a lot of money by picking a slower shipping method.
Be especially wary of shipping costs from auction sites. These are set at the discretion of the seller, and unscrupulous senders may hike up shipping to take advantage of customers.
8. **Buy multiple items to minimize shipping.** If you are purchasing multiple items, try to do so all from the same vendor, and in one purchase. Most vendors will group these into one shipment and many will ship for free over a certain purchase amount.
9. **Avoid refurbished items if possible.** Refurbished items are often sold for close to the amount of a new one, but have been repaired to be resold. While you may be able to find good deals this way, avoid it if possible. If you are going to be buying refurbished, check the warranty and ensure that the coverage is good in case it fails again.
10. **Read the return policy.** One of the biggest differences between buying from a brick-and-mortar store and an online retailer is dealing with returns. Make sure that the retailer you are buying from has a comprehensive return policy, and that you understand what you will be responsible for.
Many retailers charge restocking fees to process returns. This may be taken out of the amount returned to you.
11. **Search for coupon codes.** Many retailers will have a field where you can enter promotional codes. These may be store-wide discounts or special deals on specific products. Before you make you purchase, do a web search for coupon codes for that retailer and input any that you find that are relevant to your purchase.
wikiHow has actually a coupon page for all sorts of brands and businesses—click here to scope out the deals before you check out.
12. **Check the site's security.** Any site that you make a purchase on should have a padlock icon next to the address when you are in the checkout process. This ensures that your information is encrypted as it is transferred to the Amazon servers, which prevents thieves from being able to read the data. If you don't see the padlock icon, do not purchase from that website.
Secure sites will also have "http://www.example.com" instead of "http://www.example.com"
13. **Use a credit card instead of a debit card.** You will have much more security if your account is compromised if you pay with a credit card instead of a debit card. This is because if your debit card information is stolen, the thieves have direct access to your bank account, whereas if the credit card information is stolen, it can all be quickly reversed by the credit card company.
Try to use one credit card for all online purchases to help minimize the risk and keep any potential incidents isolated.
14. **Never make a purchase on an unsecured wireless network.** If you are connected to an unsecured wireless network, any data that you send out from your device is unencrypted until it reaches the router. This means that hackers can "listen in" on your device and the information you are sending and receiving from the internet.
If you had to enter a password to join the network, then it is secure and your data is being encrypted. For the most security, only make purchase from a computer on you home network.
15. **Vary your passwords.** As you shop more online, you will inevitably be creating multiple accounts to use at various retailers. Always ensure that your passwords are different for each store, regardless of inconvenience, because if one store is compromised the thieves would have access to your payment information any store you use.
16. **Archive your receipts.** Keep a record of all of your purchases so that you can compare your receipts to your bank statement. It will also help to have receipts for legitimate purchases in the event of fraud.
You can either print and file your receipts or save them digitally.
17. **Shop using a virus-free system.** Viruses on your computer can jeopardize your security and send your information to hackers and thieves. To prevent this, make sure that you keep your anti-virus program up to date and perform regular virus scans. See this guide for details on keeping your computer protected against viruses and malware. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Shop-Online", "language": "en"} |
How to Cut a Persimmon | Persimmons are sweet and unique fruits that are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. While the acorn-shaped Hachiya persimmon and the tomato-shaped Fuyu persimmon have a similar sweet and honey-like taste, they need to be cut very differently, due to their differing densities, textures, and water contents. The Hachiya persimmon is sliced in half and its inner contents are scooped out and the Fuyu persimmon is sliced in half and wedged.
1. **Place the Hachiya persimmon upright on the cutting board.** When placing the persimmon, make sure it is centered and stable. You do not want the persimmon slipping off of the cutting board, squirting juice on the counter, or slipping under the knife while you are attempting to cut it.
2. **Cut the persimmon leaves at their base with a knife.** Make sure to use a sharp kitchen knife, as the leaves can be thick and tough. This step makes the removal of the stem and the slicing of the actual fruit easier because there will be less to get in the way of the knife.
3. **Cut a V-shape around and underneath the stem.** Make the cut shallow, so you do not cut out too much of the actual persimmon fruit. The vertical height of this V-cut is recommended to be only slightly longer than the actual stem, which can range from around one to one and a half centimeters.
You can also pull out the stem with your hands. The stem of the Hachiya persimmon should come out easily if it is fully ripe.However, this method is less exact, has the potential to be messier, and can result in you pulling out too much of the actual fruit along with the stem.
4. **Slice the persimmon in half.** Place the middle of the sharp knife down the center of the persimmon, where the stem used to be. Simultaneously move the knife forward as you push downward. This will slice the persimmon in half.
Make sure you are watching your hand and knife placement. If you cut yourself, wash it and put antibiotics on it. If it is more serious, seek medical attention.
5. **Scoop out the inner contents of the fruit.** With a spoon, scoop the persimmon meat out of its skin. An easy way to do this is by scooping out the contents from side of the persimmon, where the inner fruit meets the skin, almost like scooping an avocado. If you cannot get all the persimmon out in one scoop that is okay! Keep scooping until you are satisfied.
6. **Peel the Fuyu persimmon skin.** Put pressure on the persimmon skin with the peeler as you pull the peeler back toward you. Continue this movement around the fruit until the skin is completely removed. This is optional, as the skin is edible; however, peeling the skin is helpful because it makes the persimmon less likely to slip under a knife while slicing it.
7. **Position the Fuyu persimmon to stand vertically on the cutting board.** When placing the persimmon, make sure it is centered and stable. You do not want the persimmon slipping off of the cutting board or slipping under the knife while you are attempting to cut it.
8. **Trim the persimmon leaves as much as possible.** Make sure to use a sharp kitchen knife, as the leaves can be thick and tough. This step makes the removal of the stem and the cutting easier because there will be less excess in the way of the knife.
9. **Remove the stem by cutting it out at a forty-five degree V-shape.** Make the cut shallow, so you do not cut out too much of the actual persimmon fruit. The vertical height of this V-cut is recommended to be only slightly longer than the actual stem, which can be anywhere from one to one and a half centimeters.
10. **Cut the persimmon in two.** Place the middle of the sharp knife down the center of the persimmon, where the stem used to be. Simultaneously move the knife forward as you push downward. This will slice the persimmon in half.
11. **Slice the persimmon halves into wedges.** Cut the persimmon halves in half again by using the same slicing motion. Continue to cut each half into smaller halves until you are satisfied. Wedges are typically around one to two centimeters, yet can vary depending on personal preference.
If you are baking with persimmons or placing them on a platter, you may consider cutting the persimmon into incredibly thin wedges. You can slice them as thin as around one fifth of a centimeter. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-a-Persimmon", "language": "en"} |
How to Bavarian Crochet | Bavarian crochet is an intermediate level technique that creates a thick, textured patch of yarn. It's traditionally worked in rounds, but you can also work Bavarian crochet in rows.
1. **Chain six and join.** Attach the yarn to your hook using a slip knot, then work a foundation of six chain stitches. Join the first and last chain stitch together with a slip stitch, forming a ring.
2. **Work a double treble shell into the center of the ring.** You'll need to work a series of chain stitches, double crochets, and double treble crochets into the center of the ring to form the first shell of the first round.
Chain stitch four times.
Work one double treble crochet into the center of the ring. There should be one stitch left on your hook after completing the double treble crochet.
Work three more double treble crochets into the center of the ring. Leave the last stitch of each double treble on the crochet hook so that there are four loops on your hook when finished.
Yarn over the hook, then pull the yarn-over through all the loops. You should be left with one loop on your hook when done.
Lock this shell in place by working one chain stitch.
Chain four from the loop on your hook.
Double crochet once into the center of the ring.
3. **Create four more double treble shells.** Follow the exact same procedure used to create the first treble shell three more times.
You should have a total of four shells in the first round. Once you complete the final shell, the first round is finished.
4. **Double treble crochet into the locking chain.** Work two chain stitches, then double treble crochet 12 times into the locking chain of the first shell in your first round.
This step begins the second round.
You should be able to spot the locking chain in the valley between shells.
5. **Double crochet into the previous round.** Work two chain stitches, then work one double crochet into the first double crochet of your previous round.
This step completes the first shell of the second round.
6. **Create three more shells.** Follow the same steps used to create the first second round shell three more times.
For each shell: chain two, double treble crochet 12 times into the locking chain, chain two, and double crochet once into the double crochet space.
When finished, you should have a total of four shells in the second round. This will complete your second round.
7. **Fasten off the yarn.** Cut the yarn, leaving a tail roughly 2 inches (5 cm) long. Pull this yarn through the loop on your hook to fasten it off.
The first two rounds are worked in one color, but the next two rounds will need to be worked in a second color.
8. **Join your second color.** Attach your second color of yarn to any of the second round shells, placing it in between the eighth and ninth double trebles of the 12-double-treble cluster.
Attach the yarn to your hook with a slipknot.
Insert the hook through the eighth and ninth double treble stitches.
Yarn over from the back.
Pull this yarn-over through to the front of the work, then through the bottom loop on your hook. The yarn should now be fastened in place.
9. **Create a connecting shell between two shells of the previous round.** For the third round, you will need to begin by creating a double treble shell that span across the first two shells of your second round.
Chain four.
Double treble crochet once into the back bar of each of the next four double treble crochets of your first second-round shell. Leave the last loop on the hook after each stitch.
Double treble crochet once into each of four matching double treble crochets in the next second-round shell. Leave the last loop on the hook after each stitch. After the last one, you should have eight loops on your hook.
Yarn over and pull the yarn-over through all eight loops on your hook, creating an eight-double-treble shell.
Chain one to lock the shell cluster.
Chain four.
Double crochet once into the space between the last double treble you worked into and the next double treble.
10. **Form a double treble shell over the top of the next shell.** The next thing you need to do is to create a smaller shell on top of the rounded edge of the second-round shell you're currently positioned over.
Chain four.
Double treble crochet once around the back bar of each of the next four double trebles from the previous round. Leave the last loop on your hook after each stitch.
Yarn over the hook.
Pull this yarn-over through all four loops on your hook, creating a four-double-treble group.
Chain one to lock the shell group in place.
Chain four.
Double crochet once into the next double treble of the previous round.
11. **Alternate back and forth between both round-three shells.** Complete the third round by working three more sets of shells, following the same procedure used to create the first set.
Each set should start with a shell that crosses between two previous round shells, and end with a shell that sits on top of one previous round shell.
By the end of the round, you should have a total of four shell sets or eight separate shells.
12. **Work a shell into the gap.** You're now ready to star the fourth round of Bavarian crochet. As with the rounds before it, this round consists of double treble shells.
Work eight double treble crochets into the next locking chain.
Work one double crochet into the next double crochet of the previous round.
Double treble crochet 12 times into the locking chain of the next four double treble groups from the previous round.
Double crochet once into the next double crochet of the previous round.
13. **Repeat around the entire perimeter.** Follow the same shell procedure completed in the previous step around the entire perimeter of the third round.
Once you work your way back to the start of the fourth round, the fourth round is complete.
14. **Fasten off the yarn.** Cut the yarn, leaving a tail measuring 2 inches (5 cm) long. Pull this tail through the loop on your hook to fasten off the work.
You've technically completed the Bavarian crochet at this point. You can end your project here or continue on until your work reaches its desired size.
If you choose to continue on, repeat rounds three and four around the perimeter of the work until you are satisfied with the final size.
When you finish, weave the excess tails into the back stitches of your work to hide them.
15. **Work a foundation chain.** Attach the yarn to your hook using a slip knot, then work a foundation of chain stitches in multiples of 10.
In other words, the foundation chain can consist of 10 chains, 20 chains, 30 chains, 40 chains, 50 chains, etc.
The length of your foundation chain will be the final length of your project.
At the end of your foundation chain, work two more chain stitches to serve as a turning chain for your next row.
16. **Half double crochet at the start of the next row.** Half double crochet once into the second chain from your hook.
When counting chains, do not count the loop currently on your hook.
17. **Create the first shell.** To create the first shell of your first official row, you will need to work a series of treble crochets and half double crochets.
Skip four chains in your foundation.
Work nine treble crochets into the fifth chain.
Skip another four chains in your foundation.
Half double crochet once into the next chain.
18. **Work additional shells across the row.** Repeat the previous step across the full length of your foundation, stopping only once you reach the end of the row.
This completes the first official row.
If desired, you can change yarn colors after the end of your first row. Doing so is not necessary, though.
19. **Front post treble crochet at the start of the next row.** Chain three, then work one treble crochet into the front posts of each of the next four stitches. Keep the last loop of each treble crochet on the hook.
After the last treble crochet, yarn over the hook and pull the yarn-over through all the loops on the hook.
Chain four again.
Work one half double crochet into the next stitch in the previous row.
20. **Create treble clusters along the entire row.** Work a series of treble clusters, chains, and half double crochets across the entire second row, stopping before you work the last five stitches.
For each group:
Chain four.
Work a front post treble crochet into each of the next four stitches, leaving the last loop on the hook after each one. Half double crochet once, then work another four treble crochets across the next four stitches. Leave the last loop on the hook after each stitch, then yarn over and pull it through the all the loops on your hook after the final stitch. This counts as a nine-stitch shell cluster.
Chain four.
Work one half double crochet into the front post of the next stitch.
21. **Work a partial cluster at the end of the row.** Chain four, then work a treble crochet into the front posts of each of the final five stitches in the row, keeping the last loop on the hook for each one.
Yarn over and pull through all the loops after completing the last one.
This completes the row. Chain four, then turn the work over.
22. **Work treble clusters and half double crochets across the third row.** Work four treble crochets into the top of the first cluster, then half double crochet once into the next half double crochet.
Create connecting shells across the entire row, stopping just before the last cluster. For each connecting shell:
Work nine treble crochets into the center of the next cluster.
Half double crochet into the next half double crochet.
For the final cluster of the row, work five treble crochets into the top of the cluster.
You can change colors at the end of this row or keep going with the color you currently have.
At the end of this row, you should also chain one and turn the work over.
23. **Create nine-stitch cluster shells across the fourth row.** Work one half double crochet into the first stitch, then work a series of nine-stitch cluster shells across the rest of the row until you reach the end and finish the row.
For each group:
Chain four.
Work a nine-stitch shell cluster over the next nine stitches, following the same procedure used to make the nine-stitch shell clusters in your second row.
Chain four.
Work one half double crochet into the next stitch.
At the very end of the row, chain one and turn the work over.
24. **Connect the shells across the fifth row.** At the start of the fifth row, half double crochet into the first half double crochet stitch. Work across the rest of the row using a series of treble crochets and half double crochets.
For each connecting shell:
Work nine treble crochets into the center of the first cluster.
Half double crochet into the next half double crochet.
Continue until you reach the end of the row.
If desired, change colors at the end of this row.
25. **Repeat as needed.** You've completed a full set of Bavarian crochet at this point. Repeat rows two, three, four, and five until the project reaches your desired width.
If you're changing colors, do so at the end of each odd numbered row.
26. **Fasten off.** When your project is finished, cut the yarn, leaving a tail 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) long. Pull this tail through the loop on your hook to fasten off and finish the work.
Weave the secured tail into the back of the work to hide it. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Bavarian-Crochet", "language": "en"} |
How to Get a Service Dog if You're Blind or Visually Impaired | A service dog, often referred to as a guide dog, can be a great companion for someone who is visually impaired or blind. Getting a service dog for a blind or visually impaired person is an extensive process. This process includes research, submitting an application, a telephone interview, a home visit, and in-person training at a certified guide dog school.
1. **Master orientation and mobility skills.** Reputable guide dog schools require that those applying to get a service or guide dog have mastered mobility and orientation skills. You will need to be able to travel independently with a cane, cross the street, walk safely in areas familiar to you, find destinations, and have the ability to problem solve if you become lost or disoriented.
If you need help mastering orientation and mobility skills, contact an Orientation and Mobility Specialist in your area. They can help you acquire these skills.
2. **Explore different service dog breeds.** Use the Internet to research different breeds that are bred as service dogs for blind and visually impaired individuals. Learning about the different breeds will help you choose a school that works with the breed or breeds you want.
Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are active breeds that are commonly trained as guide dogs.
If you are interested in a family friendly breed, Golden Retrievers and Labradors are good options.
Large breeds trained as guide dogs include Standard Poodles and German Shepherds.
3. **Research guide dog programs.** In the United States, there are around fifteen different guide dog schools that will pair you with a trained dog and oversee your initial training with the dog on their campuses. There are multiple schools like this outside the United States as well.
Explore the National Federation of the Blind’s Guide Dog Resource List at https://nfb.org/resource-list-guide-dog-schools.
The list will give you information on reputable guide dog schools in multiple regions.
4. **Contact schools that interest you.** Once you complete your research on guide dog programs and different guide dog breeds, you should reach out to a school that interests you. Call the school’s admissions office and ask questions about the program and the dogs they train. Questions you might want to ask include:
What are the entrance requirements for your school?
What is the cost of the program?
How long is the on-campus training?
Will I have to live on campus during the training period?
What breeds of dogs do you work with?
What is your process for pairing individual dogs and people?
5. **Submit your application.** Once you’ve decided on a guide dog school, you will need to submit an application. At most schools, you can either submit the application online or mail it to the school. The application will ask you about your finances, health, travel practices, and orientation and mobility training.
6. **Complete a phone interview.** After the guide dog program receives your complete application, they will contact you about setting up a telephone interview. During the interview a representative from the school will ask you about your lifestyle, health history, and finances.
7. **Wrap up with a home visit.** Once you successfully complete the application and phone interview, the school will decide if you are a good fit for their program. If they believe you are, they will arrange to conduct a home visit. During the visit, a school representative will assess your home, mobility skills, and ability to care for a service dog.
8. **Submit program fees.** Guide dog schools require participants to pay fees associated with getting a service dog and attending the on-campus training with your new dog. Some schools are completely free. Other schools can cost several hundreds or thousands of dollars. Make sure you talk to the school about these fees before signing up for a program.
9. **Complete training with your service dog.** Once you are accepted to a program, you will need to complete an on campus training that lasts about two to three weeks. During this time, the school will match you with a dog. Then you and your dog will complete an intensive training program. In most cases, you will live on campus during the training.
10. **Prepare your home for the dog.** Your new service dog will become a member of your family. Make sure your house is ready to welcome the dog before you leave for the training program. Buy the dog a bed, food and water bowls, a leash, and a collar. Make sure you set up the dog’s bed near the room where you sleep.
11. **Perform mobility tasks with your dog every day.** Guide dogs are bred and trained to help blind or visually impaired people, but they must exercise their skills every day. They can risk losing these skills if they are not regularly practiced. These tasks can include:
Crossing the street
Locating objects
Altering you to dangers like moving vehicles
12. **Meet your dog’s physical and emotional needs.** Your service dog will require physical and emotional care on a daily basis. You will need to dedicate time for feeding, grooming, and exercising your dog. If you choose an active breed like a Border Collie or Australian Shepherd, you will need to make sure the dog gets at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Service-Dog-if-You%27re-Blind-or-Visually-Impaired", "language": "en"} |
How to Make Tostada Shells | The Mexican dish called "tostadas" is formally known as "tostada compuesta" which literally translates to "toasted salad." Traditionally, a tostada is built on a deep-fried corn tortilla, but low-calorie tostada shells can also be baked or microwaved. The shell is used as a base for a small layered salad consisting of refried beans, guacamole, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, sour cream, shredded lettuce and grated cheese. You can also include ground beef, pork or chicken.
1. **Fried tostadas are the most authentic, but also the most fattening.** Traditionally, the tortilla is deep-fried in vegetable oil. This is considered the most authentic, and often tastiest way to prepare tostada shells, though if you are watching your calories you may wish to bake or microwave the tortilla.
2. **Pour about ⁄4 inch (0.6 cm) of vegetable oil into a heavy skillet.**
3. **Heat the oil.** Test the heat by dropping a small piece of tortilla into the center of the skillet. If the tortilla immediately sizzles and fries, the oil is ready.
4. **Pick up the corn tortilla with a pair of tongs and carefully place in the pan.** The outer edges of the tortilla should bubble, as should the center. Always be careful of splattering oil.
5. **Fry until the outer edges are golden-brown, then turn the tortilla over.** Depending on your stove this may take 8 to 10 or up to 30 seconds for each side. A fully fried tostada should be a light to medium brown color.
6. **Remove the tostada shells from the pan.** Let the shells cool on a plate covered in an absorbent paper towel.
7. **To keep tostadas warm, store in oven preheated to 250 °F (120 °C).**
8. **Baked tostada shells are generally considered the low-calorie alternative to fried tostadas.** However, many cooks consider them just as tasty.
9. **Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C).**
10. **Brush both sides of a corn tortilla lightly with vegetable oil.** Sprinkle with salt, chili powder or cayenne for extra taste.
11. **Place tortilla on a baking sheet.**
12. **Repeat the process with additional tortillas.** Usually you can fit about 4 to 6 tortillas per baking sheet.
13. **Bake tortillas for 3 to 5 minutes on the first side, or until tortillas turn crispy, with light to medium golden-brown color.**
14. **Remove the sheet from the oven, turn the tostada shells over and repeat the process.**
15. **Optional:** You can make your tostada shells in a bowl shape by baking them with their sides folded in a small spring form pans, weighted down with pastry molds.
16. **You can also make crispy but oil-free and extremely low-fat tostada shells in the microwave.** This method may be tedious when making more than a few tostada shells.
17. **Place 2 layers of paper towels on your microwave's cooking carousel.** The paper towels soak up moisture and create a crunchy texture.
18. **Layer several tortillas onto the carousel, directly onto the paper towels.** Do not allow the edges of the tortillas to overlap.
19. **Cover the tortillas with an additional layer of paper towels.** Microwave on high for 1 minute.
20. **Open the microwave and remove the top layer of paper towels.** Turn the tortillas over and place fresh paper towels on top. Microwave on high for 1 additional minute.
21. **Optional:** You may wish to microwave tostada toppings after you have baked or fried the shells.
22. **Finished.** | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Tostada-Shells", "language": "en"} |
How to Answer Hard Questions on a Test | If you want to ace a test, the most important things you can do are study the subject thoroughly, get plenty of rest the night before, and try to remain as calm as possible while you're taking the exam. However, no matter how hard you study, there will always be certain questions on an exam that are more difficult than others. When you aren't entirely sure of your answer, there are strategies you can use to improve your chances of choosing correctly.
1. **Circle keywords in the question.** This will help you focus on the main idea the instructor wants you to recall. Look for any vocabulary words you learned recently in class, and any study terms you recognize.
Some teachers like to reuse test sheets for other classes, especially if you are answering on a scantron. In this case, use pencil.
You don't have to circle the words; you can underline them instead.
2. **Answer easy questions first.** Quickly go through the test and fill in the blanks that you are sure you know. This will give you confidence, and it will “prime” your brain – you'll be subconsciously working on the answers you skipped over. Then go back and answer the hard questions.
Another reason you want to answer the easy questions first is to get them out of the way. This way, if you run out of time, at least you'll have a bunch of questions answered.
3. **Supply more than one answer, if you aren't sure.** If you have more than one idea, and you truly can't decide which is more likely to be correct, write them both down. Your teacher may give you partial credit if one of your answers is correct.
This won't always be the case, especially if it is a multiple choice question or a scantron.
4. **Answer from your teacher's point of view.** If you can't decide between two possible responses to a question, try to think of it from the teacher's point of view. What would they most likely want you to say? What sort of things did they most often emphasize in class lectures?
Imagine the teacher is reviewing the test results in class, later on. Try to picture what your teacher would give as the answer.
Imagine that you are writing the test. What sort of answers would you put as the correct and incorrect ones? This is helpful for multiple choice questions.
5. **Use the margins.** If you are having difficulty figuring out the answer to a question, or if you have several possibilities in mind, use the margins (or the back) of your exam to work it out. Write down anything that comes to you, and see if this jogs your memory.
Some teachers allow you to bring a scrap sheet of paper to the exam. If your teacher lets you do this, take advantage of it.
6. **Rephrase the question.** Summarize the question using your own words, to see whether this makes the instructors' point more clear. Be careful not to change the question when you rephrase it.
7. **Prepare and study with flashcards.** If you know your teacher will be giving you a short answer test, prepare beforehand by making note of any key ideas or terms you find in the text book or reading materials. Always include key points your teacher makes in his or her lectures, especially points that are repeated two or more times.
Write the key word on the front of the flashcard, and a brief description on the back.
Alternatively, write the key terms on the left side of a sheet of paper, and the definitions on the right side. Fold the paper so you can only see the definitions, then try to recall the terms.
8. **Write as much as you can remember on the back of the test.** Briefly read through the test questions. Then, if you are allowed to write on the back of the test sheet, or on a cover sheet, try to list any information you think might help you during the test.
List any of the terms on your flashcards that often stumped you – get those down, so you don't get stuck on them when they appear on the test.
If you memorized any lists or collections of terms by using mnemonics, quickly write them down.
If you aren't allowed to use the Periodic Table during a chemistry exam, memorize it and sketch it out before you take the test. Then you'll have it to refer to during the test.
Always be sure your teacher is okay with this method, and that it is obvious you didn't bring the paper in with you to class – otherwise, it might look like you're cheating.
9. **Listen to all the instructions.** Be sure to pay attention when your teacher gives the last minute instructions, in case there is anything different about this test than others you have taken. Also make note of how much time you will have to take the test.
10. **Read the questions, and ask for clarification.** As the exams are being handed out, quickly skim through the questions to be sure they all make sense to you. If there is anything that isn't clear, ask your professor to explain more fully what he or she is looking for on that question.
Your teacher may not always notice you raising your hand during a test. In this case, you can try going up to them and asking them.
11. **Estimate time allowed for each question.** If there are multiple essay questions on the exam, count them and divide this number into the total amount of minutes you are allowed to use for the test. This will give you an estimate of how much time you should be spending on each question.
For example: if you have 1 hour to answer 3 essays, spend 15 to 20 minutes on each essay.
12. **Avoid getting stuck.** If you notice that you are stuck on one particular question, or spending too much time on a really detailed answer, go to the next question. Go back at the end of the test to fill in anything you missed.
If you spend too much time on one question, you may run out of time to answer the rest.
Sometimes if you skip a question and continue to work through the test, you will jog your memory and remember the answer to the earlier question.
13. **Rephrase the question to begin your answer.** To come up with a thesis statement or central point for your answer, rephrase the question as a statement. This will give you a good starting point for your essay.
Try to include key words from the question in your thesis statement.
14. **Plan your answer before you begin.** Outline the main points you want to cover, before you begin writing. Include the main terms, dates, names – anything that you can remember – when jotting down your notes. Then include only the most relevant data when writing your answer.
Use scrap paper, or the back of the paper, if you need more space.
15. **Keep your answer simple and concise.** Stay on point, and try to use clear language to express your ideas. Avoid lengthy introductory or summation passages.
Include your most important points first – don't save them for the conclusion of your essay.
Realize that providing too long of an answer can actually cause you to write too much. It can end up in taking away the focus on the correct answer, causing you to get it wrong, or losing some marks.
16. **Focus on the parts you are most familiar with.** Spend the most time covering the ideas you are most familiar with, and that you remember the most details about. Answer the question completely, but devote the bulk of your essay answer to the part of the question that you are most confident you understand.
17. **Come up with your own answer, before reading the options.** Try to answer the question in your own words if you can, then try to find the answer that most closely matches your idea.
If you focus first on figuring out what the answer is, before looking at the options given, it will force you to where you first heard this information.
This process helps to improve your concentration, and will exercise your memory.
18. **Answer questions in order, but skip any that you get stuck on.** The answers on an exam often follow the same order you learned the material in class, or in the same order it was presented in the textbook. Answering them in order may help give you clues as to what the right answer might be. But don't waste a lot of time on a difficult question and become frustrated, as this may affect your performance on the rest of the test.
If you are really stuck on a question, make your best guess and put a question mark next to it (online tests may allow you to flag questions). If you finish the test with time to spare, go back and reconsider the ones you marked.
If you do not want to guess, skip the question and put a mark beside it, so you can return to it if you have time at the end of the test.
19. **Find out whether you will be penalized for guessing.** On most tests, you are not penalized for guessing. It's better to risk getting a question right, and possibly get it wrong, than to leave it completely blank, and definitely get it wrong. However, be aware that there are certain tests where you are penalized for guessing. If you aren't sure, ask your teacher or exam coordinator before you begin the test.
The SAT will penalize you for guessing. This was changed in 2016. Prior, 1/4 points were deducted point for every incorrect answer – you were not penalized for answers left blank.
The ACT does not penalize for guessing. It's better to answer every single question, if you can, and hope that some of your guesses are correct.
The GRE does not penalize for wrong answers. Skip answers when you are stuck, but try to get back to them if you can – it's best to answer every question you can, within the allotted time frame.
20. **Forget about always sticking to your first choice.** Many people say that your first guess on a test question is usually right, so you should never change your answer. However, recent studies have shown that isn't the case – you're just as likely, or even more likely, to get it right if you change an answer you aren't sure about. So don't stress over whether to change an answer because it wasn't your first choice. If you change your mind, change your answer.
Empirical evidence from data collected from takers of the GRE test shows that test-takers who changed some of their answers tended to score higher than those who always stuck with their first choice.
Test takers in the GRE study most often changed answers from wrong to right, which resulted in a higher score.
21. **Ask yourself if the answer is complete.** When you are considering an answer that you aren't sure is correct, ask yourself if it completely answers the question.
If the answer is only partly true, or applies to only one part of the question, it is probably not the one to choose.
If the answer is only true under certain conditions, it is probably not the right one. If a question asks about a specific behavior of an elephant, but the answer would only be correct for an elephant in captivity, it doesn't exactly answer the question.
If an answer is incomplete, or is not correct under every circumstance, eliminate that option. This will leave you with fewer options to choose from, which will increase the odds that you will select the correct answer.
If you find an answer that looks “almost” complete, see if there is another option that is very similar to that answer, but is complete. This may be the correct choice.
22. **Think twice if you suspect a trick question.** Teachers very rarely put trick questions on their tests. If you think the question might be a trick, read it over again very carefully. You might have misunderstood the point of the question, or you might be trying to make the question more complicated than it really is.
If there is a simple answer that solves the question, that is probably the correct choice. For example, if the question is “What does 0 times 0 equal?,” don't over-analyze it. It's not a trick question – the answer is 0.
If a history tests asks, “What was the name of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s father?,” it's not a trick. The answer is Martin Luther King, Sr.
23. **Visualize each answer as being correct.** If there are two answers you like equally, visualize the first one as being the right answer. Then try the second option, and imagine in your mind that this answer is the correct one. You will probably have a “gut feeling” that one of the answers is wrong. Then choose the other one.
We sometimes have a strong feeling about something, without remembering specific details about it. For instance, we can remember if we liked or disliked somebody we recently met, even if we can't remember their name.
24. **Look for exact opposites.** If two of the choices are exact opposites of the other, one of these is likely to be the right answer.
If two answers on a math test are a) 7, and b) -7; one of these is likely to be correct.
For example, a question on a history exam asks about the impact of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and two of the answers are: a) It allowed more citizens to vote, and b) It increased voting restrictions. These express exactly opposing ideas, and in this case “A” is the correct answer.
25. **Reject absolutes.** If an answer insists on an absolute, it is usually not the correct answer. Avoid answers that include the words never, always, all, every, and must. (Math tests are the exception to this one.)
Answers that do not contain absolutes are more likely to be correct. For example, correct answers often contain these words or phrases: generally, probably, most likely, seldom, tend to, and usually.
26. **Look for grammatical clues.** Be on the lookout for grammatical matches between the question and the answers. The correct answer to a question will most likely match in tense and number, and the nouns and verbs will agree.
For example, if the question asks, “What IS the most endangered species in the world?,” you can eliminate “The Amur leopard and the Javan rhinoceros ARE the most endangered species,” because the question is phrased in the singular. (In this case, the answer would be, “The Ivory-billed woodpecker IS the most endangered species.)
27. **Pay special attention to specific phrases or unusual words that you remember reading in the textbook.** Questions for tests are usually based on the information in your textbook, and teachers often use the same words and phrases the book does.
Underline any answer that contains specific phrases from the lecture or textbook, and consider those answers more seriously than the others.
28. **Eliminate answers that are extremes.** Often, there will be one answer that is obviously too large, and one that is clearly too small; or a date that is way too early or far too recent. You can toss these out, and choose between the remaining answers.
For example, if a question on your history test reads, “What year was John F. Kennedy assassinated?,” you can ignore “1863” and “2003,” because those are clearly outside the correct timeframe. Then choose between the remaining options (in this case, the answer would be 1963).
If a math question reads, “What does 4 squared equal?,” you could easily eliminate “2” as being too small, and “200” as being too large. Then choose from the remaining answers (in this case, 16).
29. **Consider “None of the above” and “All of the above.”** These choices are the exception to the rule about absolutes, as they may actually be the correct choice as much as 52% of the times they appear.
30. **Try choosing the longest answer.** Often, the choice that contains the most words is correct, because the teacher needs to include a large number of qualifiers to ensure that the answer can't be contested. The teacher may not take the time to phrase incorrect answers in quite such specific terms.
For example, imagine a driving test with this question: “If you want to turn right, you should be in:” The answers given are: a) The left lane, b) The lane that's nearest the direction you want to turn, c) the right lane, d) the center lane. The test maker has been most careful in phrasing (correct) option b, to make sure that this answer can't be disputed.
Qualifying phrases might include over a period of time, in rare cases, orwithin a small segment of the population.
At the same time, sometimes longer answers can be a trick to try to get you to pick the more elaborate sounding suggestion. Use your best judgment and realize that this strategy isn't a sure thing.
31. **Choose “True” answers over “False.** If you can't decide, mark the answer “True.” Teachers usually find it difficult to make a false statement sound like it's true. Therefore, there are usually more “True” answers on a test than “False” ones.
32. **Examine every part of an answer that includes a reason.** Answers that are phrased to include a reason are often false. The first part of the answer might be true, but then the teacher will add a modifier that is incorrect or incomplete. This makes the entire statement false.
Look for words like because, if, since, and when.
For example, consider this statement: “Thomas Edison is considered a brilliant visionary because he invented the electric lightbulb.” Thomas Edison invented many things, but he didn't invent the lightbulb; he invented a longer lasting, incandescent version of the lightbulb.
33. **Be wary of answers containing extreme modifiers.** Statements that contain words like always, never, everyone, no one, absolutely, best, worst, invariably, all, and only are usually false.
34. **Favor answers that use qualifying words.** Statements containing words and phrases such as usually, sometimes, may apply, probably, some, a majority of, and seldom are more likely to be true than false.
35. **Look out for double negatives, and negative prefixes.** Read through the statements very carefully, paying attention to words that employ a negative prefix – for example, inability, unpopular, and insignificant. Misreading these words will completely change the meaning of the statement. A statement that describes something as not uncommon is actually saying the event is common.
36. **Look at the first and last sentences, for the main idea.** If you are asked to identify the author's “purpose,” “intent” or “main idea,” try looking closely at the first sentences and the last sentences. If they seem to closely relate to each other, this is a good indication of the main idea the writer was trying to get across.
Main idea questions usually contain words and phrases, such as emphasizes, focuses on, is primarily concerned with, or the essence.
37. **Take notes to find the main idea.** Note key words as you read, and pay attention to words or concepts that are mentioned more than once, or in great detail.
Also look for words like although, but, except, unless, and yet, because these words highlight a key idea that the author believed needed to be qualified or clarified.
A good strategy to help with questions like these is to note down 1-3 words summarizing the main idea of each paragraph in the margins as you read. Then, when you answer a question on the main idea, you can refer to these notes instead of doing a lot of re-reading.
38. **Eliminate answers that are too broad or too narrow in scope.** Certain answers you can rule out right away, and then focus on the remaining choices.
The answer is too broad in scope, or too narrow, to fit the passage. For example, if the reading concerns college students in France, an answer describing all the people of France is too broad. An answer that only pertains to female college students in France would be too narrow.
39. **Eliminate answers that contradict a statement in the reading.** If an answer says something that is clearly different from something the author said in the passage, you can rule that one out right away.
40. **Eliminate answers that aren't supported by the writing.** If there are facts specified in the answer that are not included in the written passage, you can rule out this answer as well.
41. **Look for synonyms, when asked for a specific detail.** If an answer contains a word that has the same meaning as a main idea in the text, focus on that answer first to see whether it is supported by the reading. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Answer-Hard-Questions-on-a-Test", "language": "en"} |
How to Paint Pine Furniture | Before you paint pine furniture, sand it to remove the previous layers of finish while opening up the grain in the porous wood. Then, prime your furniture with a stain-resistant primer. After your furniture is sanded and primed, you can paint it with a brush and roller. Prevent damaging your floors by working over a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area. Always wear a dust mask when working with oil-based paints or primers, and protect your eyes, lungs, and hands while sanding by wearing protective eyewear, a dust mask, and gloves.
1. **Set out a drop cloth or take your furniture outside.** You’re going to make a little bit of a mess while sanding your wood and you don’t want any paint dripping on to your floor, so set out a large drop cloth underneath your furniture. If you’re painting a smaller item, feel free to take it outside so that you don’t need to worry about making a mess in your home.
If you paint your furniture outside on a windy day, you could end up with a lot of small pieces of dust, grass, or debris getting stuck in your paint. A windy day is excellent for sanding though.
2. **Clean your furniture with a damp cloth.** Run a clean cloth or rag under warm water and wring it out over a sink or bucket to remove the excess water. Run the rag or cloth over every surface of your furniture to remove any dirt, debris, or splinters. Let the furniture air dry for at least 30-45 minutes.
If your pine is unfinished, wait 2-3 hours to give the moisture time to evaporate.
You don’t need to scrub your furniture—it shouldn’t be soaking wet by the time that you’re done.
3. **Sand your pine with 120-150 grit sandpaper.** Purchase a sanding brick or attach a sheet of 120-150 grit sandpaper to a belt sander. Run your sandpaper firmly across every surface of your furniture to pull up the porous wood, remove debris and splinters, and make it easier to paint. If you’re using a belt sander, guide it carefully over the furniture. If you’re using a sanding brick, use light back-and-forth strokes. Work in the direction of the grain.
Unless you want a spongy, distressed look, you need to sand your furniture regardless of whether it is finished or unfinished.
Stop after you’ve run the sandpaper over every section of the wood.
Wear protective eyewear and gloves while doing this to prevent damaging your eyes or hands. Put on a dust mask before sanding to keep your lungs safe.
4. **Sand again using 200-220 grit sandpaper.** Use the same method that you used to sand your furniture the first time to ensure that your wood grain remains uniform. Sand your furniture lightly with your brick or sander to remove smaller blemishes and smooth out minor scratches. Sanding twice will make it easier for the primer to bind with the wood, which will make the paint more uniform and permanent when you apply it.
The finer sandpaper will also remove any wood dust that is sticking to your furniture after using the rougher sandpaper.
You can stop sanding after you’ve run the sandpaper over each section of the furniture.
Sanding with the finer paper will remove hard-to-see splinters and minor imperfections.
5. **Brush your furniture with a dry, clean paint brush.** Wipe off the remaining wood dust and splinters by brushing your furniture with a standard paint brush that has never been used. Brush freely and firmly to wipe all of the debris on to the ground or drop cloth.
You can wipe your furniture with a dry cloth or rag if you prefer.
6. **Tape off any handles or details that you want to stay dry.** Use painter’s tape to cover any sections that you want to paint a different color or leave blank. Place a piece of painter’s tape against the edge that you’re going to leave unpainted and press it down as you roll the tape along the edge. Press down on a strip of painter’s tape to ensure that the adhesive is smoothed out against the wood.
If you have metal handles or leg covers, they can usually be removed with a screwdriver.
Paint can bleed through the edge of painter’s tape. Use it as a guide, not a perfect safety measure.
7. **Remove any drawers or shelves to make painting easier.** If you’re painting a dresser, end table, or armoire, remove the drawers or shelves so that you don’t need to worry about paint dripping in between spaces in the wood. It is easier to paint these removable pieces separately, and removing them will prevent you from missing hard-to-reach areas between gaps.
You don’t need to prime, sand, or paint the areas that aren’t going to be visible.
You can paint and prime drawers and shelves on a set of saw horses or separate section of your drop cloth.
8. **Fill a paint tray with a stain-blocking primer.** Unscrew or pry the lid off of your primer and fill a paint tray with ⁄2–⁄4 gallon (1.9–2.8 L). If you plan on using latex paint, use a latex primer. If you’re going to use an alkyd or oil-based paint, use a primer that uses the same base as the paint. Read a label before purchasing a primer to make sure that it is stain-blocking for the best results.
Wear a respirator or dust mask if you’re working with oil-based primer. The fumes are a lung irritant.
Open a window before pouring your primer if you’re working indoors. Even nontoxic latex primers can smell obnoxious in a closed room.
9. **Roll larger surface areas with a thin-napped mini-roller.** Use a 6 in (15 cm) foam roller to cover larger surfaces of your furniture. Submerge your roller in the paint and then roll it 2-3 times in the tray to remove excess paint. Use light pressure to roll up and down across the flat surfaces. Roll 2-3 times over an area to ensure that you get primer on every section of your furniture. A medium-sized dresser should require roughly 0.5 gallons (1.9 L) of paint.
It can be really hard to remove oil-based primer from a roller. You may be better off not wasting your time trying to clean it and toss it out. You can also wrap it in a plastic bag to keep it wet if you want to apply multiple layers.
For rougher pine, use a thick-napped roller instead.
You can use a larger roller if your furniture is larger.
10. **Brush intricate details, curves, and smaller surfaces with a natural brush.** Use an angled or flat brush with natural bristles to paint details, curves, or hard-to-reach areas of your furniture. Use back-and-forth strokes to cover each area of your furniture. Paint in the direction of the wood grain whenever possible.
Leave no visible surface unprimed. It’s okay if the coat of primer isn’t perfectly even in color—especially if you’re using a gloss paint—but every surface should be primed.
Use your brush to work around any handles or edges of painter’s tape.
Avoid drips by brushing with light pressure and allowing your brush to move in your wrist as you paint.
11. **Wait 12-24 hours for your primer to dry.** If you paint your pine furniture before the primer has a chance to fully dry into the wood, you’ll end up with an uneven paint job and an unprotected piece of furniture. Let your furniture air dry in a low-moisture environment with plenty of access to air.
12. **Choose a color and style of paint.** Select your color based on your personal preferences. Choose between a gloss, semi-gloss, or flat paint. You can use oil-based, alkyd or latex paint. If you’re painting a furniture item that you touch frequently, like a dresser or table, choose an alkyd-based paint. Latex paint will rub off more easily over time, especially if the furniture is being used regularly. For decorative pieces, latex will hold up just fine.
If you’re painting kitchen or bathroom cabinets, use an oil-based paint. It will resist moisture more efficiently than an alkyd or latex paint.
If you want a distressed look and you use the furniture regularly, go ahead and use a latex paint. It will wear away and reveal the grain underneath over time.
13. **Fill a paint tray with ⁄2–⁄4 gallon (1.9–2.8 L) of paint.** Open your can of paint with a flathead screwdriver by prying the lid off with the screwdriver’s head. Use a mixing stick to mix the paint until the color is uniform and even. Use both hands to hold the can over your paint tray and tilt it so that the paint pours into the tray. Use your brush to wipe the drips on the paint can away.
Do this over your drop cloth or while you’re outside. Paint can drip down the side of the canister, so be careful.
14. **Paint angles, curves, or rough edges with a natural angle brush.** Dip the tip of your brush into your paint tray and then tap it on the dry slope to remove excess paint. Use back-and-forth strokes to cover any angles, curves, edges, or hard-to-reach areas with paint. Run your brush over an area 3-4 times to ensure that the paint gets into the wood grain.
You can use a brush to paint the entire piece of furniture if you’d like. A roller will be easier to use and will result in more a more consistent look when it comes to larger, flat surfaces though.
Depending on the size of your furniture, you can use a ⁄4–3 in (1.9–7.6 cm) brush.
15. **Roll larger surfaces with a 6 in (15 cm) roller.** Use a foam roller if you’re painting unfinished pine. If you’re painted previously-finished wood, use a roller with ⁄4 in (0.64 cm) nap. Dip your roller in the paint tray and roll it in the bed to remove excess paint. Roll your furniture in the direction of the grain, starting from the top and working your way down. Cover each surface 2-3 times to make sure that you don’t miss any indentations or grooves in the wood.
If your piece of furniture is really big, feel free to use a standard 9 in (23 cm) roller.
If the wood is really rough or has a lot of scratches in it, try using a roller with a thicker nap.
16. **Apply additional coats based on how dark and uniform you want the paint to be.** The more coats of paint that you apply, the darker and more uniform your paint job will be. If you want a more rustic, distressed look, you can stop after 1 coat of paint. For a standard look, apply 2-3 coats. Wait 6-12 hours between coats to ensure that the previous layer has fully dried.
Sand lightly in between coats if you have any drips or blemishes that you want to cover.
17. **Apply a protective finish if you want to preserve your paint job.** If you’re happy with the look and feel of your painted furniture, you can stop after you’ve painted it. If you want to protect the paint, add a layer of polycrylic protective finish. Use a natural-bristle brush and a small foam roller to cover every surface of your furniture. Wait 72 hours to give the finish enough time to fully settle.
The finish won’t change the color of the paint job, but if you get a glossy version of the finish, it could make your furniture more reflective.
If you don’t wait at least 3 days before using or touching your furniture, it will be sticky and you could risk ruining the finish. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Paint-Pine-Furniture", "language": "en"} |
How to Start a Famous Singing Group | Starting a singing group can be a very difficult task. There are so many things to consider if you want a chance at stardom. If you find the right people, practice, and get a gig, you could be well on your way to joining the ranks of groups like The Jacksons, The Temptations, The Supremes, and Boys II Men.
1. **Decide what kind of group you want.** Before you start a big project like putting a music group together, you need a clear goal and vision.
Determine what kind of group you want so that your vision for the group is clear from the start.
You will need to choose the style of music for your group. How many people you have in the group, where you look for singers and instrumentalists, and how you get an agent or manager will all depend on the musical style.
Most of the popular styles for singing groups are madrigal, a Capella, pop, hip-hop, vocal jazz, rock, etc.
Where you look for your new group members will depend on what kind of group you want to make.
For example, if you want a religious singing group, you should look for members at church, or maybe people who sing in a church choir.
If you want people who can play instruments, you might want to ask people who are in band class at your school.
2. **Decide what kind of voices you want for the singers in your group.** This will depend on a number of factors.
Some styles of music will feature only 2 or 3 singers, whereas others such as pop or a capella can feature 5 or more.
You will need to decide on the gender of your members. Do you want an all-girl or all-guy group? Or a mixed group?
If you decide on a mixed-gender group, you will also need to decide how many male voices and how many female voices you will need for the right sound.
If you are a rock or country group, you might only have one singer. Everyone else in the band will need a role other than a backup singer. In groups like this, often there is a lead singer and a group of musicians that play guitar, bass, and drums.
3. **Hold auditions.** To find people to join your group, you could organize some kind of audition so that people will come to you.
You'll need to advertise the event (make fliers, tell everyone you know, put an ad in your local newspaper, etc.).
Post fliers around your school, at local businesses, at your church, and at local events.
Take out an ad in the newspaper. That can help interested musicians and singers find you.
Talk to people at your church or community center. They can help you spread the word about your group and the audition.
Try announcing the event on social media like Facebook and Twitter.
You can also post an ad on Craigslist and other websites.
4. **Ask around your community.** If you know people who are already in bands or singing groups, ask them if they know anyone who is currently looking to join a group.
Post about it on social media.
Ask your old band or music teacher if they know anyone interested.
Do whatever you can to draw attention to your project so that you can find the talented people you'll need to be in your group.
5. **Identify a leader.** Even if all of the singing members have equal parts in the group, there still needs to be a designated leader.
This will be the person who interacts with your manager, booking agents, members of the community, and press.
This person will have to make sure the vision of the group remains intact.
Make sure it's someone who can work with all the personalities in the group. Remember, you all have to be able to get along and collaborate effectively.
6. **Determine what parts each person will play.** A group will function better if everyone is clear on what roles they are supposed to play. Think about how each person's voice will sound best when you put them all together. However, if someone sings beautiful harmony but they want to sing lead, you might give them a few songs where they can perform the lead vocals.
One group member who is good at choreographing can be in charge of putting together dance routines.
In a rock group, it's probably going to be more likely that each person plays a different instrument and there is one lead singer.
Remember, it's more about the collective sound of everyone's voices together, rather than any one individual.
7. **Pick a name.** Choosing your group's name is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your group early on.
This is the name people will remember, the name you'll be endlessly promoting, and hopefully the name that will make you famous.
Think about what your group's name says about your style, your personalities, and how it fits with the kind of songs you want to sing.
Think of something catchy and bold. You'll want a name that is creative and draws an audience.
8. **Practice your music frequently.** You can't expect to shoot to stardom overnight without a well-rehearsed repertoire of music. Work out all the details, perfect your parts, and see what happened. You should spend many, many hours practicing to make sure everything will be perfect when you actually start performing in front of people.
If you are in a band where everyone plays an instrument, learn a few steady cover songs before trying to write your own material. At concerts, start out with cover songs and then gradually introduce your own material.
First impressions can be key. Make sure that your first public performance is well-practiced.
If you're planning on recording your songs in a studio, make a demo at home so you can hear if anyone needs to make changes to their parts before you get in the studio.
9. **Find a manager.** It is possible to manage yourselves, especially at the beginning of your group's career.
If you start accumulating gigs, it might be a good idea to look for someone with professional management experience to help you and your group members navigate the often complex music scene.
There are many benefits to having a band manager. For example, they can book gigs for you, help you find a connection with a recording studio, and help you manage your group's finances.
It is very important to hire a person that you trust completely to be your manager. Don't let someone scam you or push you in a direction you aren't comfortable with.
Remember, you'll have to pay them for their time and work. They will work for you very hard to help you succeed. You will need to agree on fair compensation for their time and effort.
10. **Perform locally as often as possible.** Perform for free at first, so you can develop a good reputation and a following.
Meet on weekends with your group and perform on a street corner or park, though you should make sure this doesn't violate local ordinances.
Carry business cards with you about your group so you can pass them out to people who stop to listen.
Performing in front of a small crowd at first will help your group get comfortable in front of an audience. This can only help to improve the quality of your music.
11. **Play at parties in your area.** Ask your friends and neighbors if you can perform at parties they might be throwing.
The more you get your group out there where people can hear you, the better.
Even if it is just at a small neighborhood party, it is still better for your group than not performing at all.
Volunteer to be entertainment at charity events and parties. This can really help your music and group get your name out.
Play at local fairs and community events. Once get a reputation you can start charging a small fee.
12. **Participate in local talent shows.** See if your community has a local talent show of any kind and sign up.
This is a great way for you to become involved in the community, to get your music heard by a variety of people, and to open the door for new opportunities for your group.
Many now-famous bands and musicians(like Rhianna and Usher) got their start performing in small, local talent shows.
13. **Call local venues.** Find out what clubs/bars/restaurants/venues have live music and ask how you would go about being considered for this gig.
The venue might ask that you send them a demo tape or to come audition for them live.
Whatever they ask, make sure you take your time to prepare and present your group's best image.
Make sure the venue is appropriate for your type of group. For example, you wouldn't want to play at a hip-hop club if your style was more jazz or rock. Or if your style is loud and controversial, you'd want to avoid family-friendly venues.
14. **Ask other groups to be their opening act.** This can be a good way to get short public performances and get noticed.
If you know any other groups, offer to open up for them at concerts.
An opening act usually only performs a few songs and introduces the headlining band or group.
This is a great way for rock groups to get exposure. Sometimes, a headlining act will ask you to open for them on a short tour.
15. **Make fliers.** Whenever you have an upcoming performance, make fliers and post them around your town.
Make sure the fliers are exciting and attention-grabbing so that more people will take the time to look at them.
Have all the information such as location, time, date, and price of your gig.
Make sure you indicate whether your gig is all ages, 18+ or 21+ on your flier.
16. **Promote your gigs online.** Just a few years ago, people had no choice but to promote themselves by word of mouth, fliers, or radio ads alone.
The advancement of technology and the internet has made this kind of work so much easier and more effective.
Use the internet to your advantage and actively promote your group on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.
Having an online presence makes it easier for your fans to find you, for people to contact you about booking gigs, and to put your music out there for people to hear.
17. **Boost morale.** Make sure your group members feel appreciated and valued.
Let them know that you respect what they contribute to the group dynamic and that you wouldn't be where you are as a group without them.
Everyone needs to feel like they are an important part of the group.
Make sure everyone is kept informed of plans, gigs, and all events.
Don't leave anyone in the group out of the loop.
Avoid gossip. Don't spread rumors about other members of your group.
18. **Do activities together.** It's easy to get caught up in the business aspects of making and practicing music together.
Make sure that you make time to do some fun things together as a group.
Since you spend so much time together, it's important that you work on your friendship as much as you work on your vocals.
Take some time to go to a party together or spend a day at an amusement park. Whatever you do, just make sure you're having fun with your group members.
Participating in a sport or charity event can be a fun team-building experience.
19. **Hold regular rehearsals.** Nothing will make a group feel more grounded in the same mission than performing well together.
To get to this level, you must practice.
The more you practice, the less likely it is that one or more of you will make mistakes during performances.
Practice until every group member has the routine/songs memorized and can perform them flawlessly each time.
20. **Hold group meetings.** Group meetings are a great way to make sure everyone is on the same page and that all of the group members are happy with the way things are going with your group.
Making sure that every member feels like their opinion matters is important for keeping a group together, and a group meeting is a great platform to make that happen.
Talk about upcoming gigs and events to make sure everyone knows their obligations.
Use these meetings to divide up the work between group members. This can be anything from buying supplies, to coordinating with a venue, to advertising, etc.
Make sure that if there are any problems in the group, they are discussed when everyone is there.
If there are conflicts in the group, remain calm and treat everyone with respect. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Famous-Singing-Group", "language": "en"} |
How to Cut a Quartz Countertop | Quartz countertops are a combination of quartz and resin, and tends to be easier to maintain than marble or natural stone because it is difficult to stain and doesn't require any sealant. Installing quartz can be challenging, but cutting it can be a breeze if you have the right tools. Due to the fact that the dust created by cutting quartz is toxic, you'll want to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator and protective eyewear.
1. **Measure the surface area where you're installing your countertop.** Use a retractable measuring tape to measure the length and width of your countertop. Draw out your surface on a piece of paper and label the length of each side so that you have a reference while cutting the quartz. Use the metal lip at the end of your measuring tape to attach it to the edge of your cabinets if you're working alone.
It doesn't matter if your drawing is to scale or not. The important thing is that the measurements are correct so that you can easily reference them when you're cutting your quartz.
2. **Add an additional 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) to the edge of your cabinets for your overhang.** Most quartz countertops don't line up flush with the cabinets. Typically, there's a small section of quartz that extends past the edge of your cabinets or table. The average distance for an overhang is 1.5 inches (3.8 cm), but you can choose to add between 1–6 inches (2.5–15.2 cm).
The maximum length allowed for an overhang on a kitchen island or extended section of countertop is 12 inches (30 cm). Anything bigger than that is structurally unsound.
3. **Mark the location of the sink on your cabinet with a marker.** You need your sink to rest directly above the water lines underneath your countertop. Measure the dimension of your sink, and draw lines on the top of your cabinet to indicate where your sink will go. This way, you'll be able to check if the sinkhole in your quartz matches the opening in your cabinets before affixing it. Add these measurements to your illustration.
Some sinks come with a template that you can outline on your countertop to help you cut.
When you're installing your sink, you'll rest it in on top of a fitted hole that you'll cut out for it, so don't measure the very edge of your sink. Instead, measure 2 inches (5.1 cm) past the edge to give you room to access the sink slots.
4. **Make a template for more precise cuts.** Take strips of balsa wood or rigid cardboard and lay them along the edges of your existing countertop. Be sure to line up the edges precisely. Then, hot glue the strips together to create a template.When the glue dries, you can just lift up the template and lay it on top of the quartz.
5. **Set your quartz upside-down on a stable work surface.** A cutting table capable of handling a lot of weight is preferable, but you can also set up sawhorses as well. You're going to want to mark the underside of the quartz slab so that there are no visible markings left on the top of the surface.
6. **Use a grease marker and straight edge to mark all of your cuts.** Lay your template on top of your quartz slab, then carefully and slowly trace along the line with a grease marker. However, it doesn't hurt to double-check your measurements after you trace the lines,even if you used a template.
When you measure out the section for your sink, mark your lines 0.5–1 inch (1.3–2.5 cm) closer to the center of the sink. You'll need some extra space to smooth your edges and you don't want to risk cutting too much off to begin with.
You want to measure out every section of your countertop before cutting. This way you'll be able to visually inspect whether you've made an incorrect measurement and double-check your length and width before you permanently remove sections of quartz.
7. **Put on your protective eyewear and respirator.** The dust created when you cut quartz is toxic, and can damage your lungs and eyes if you're exposed to it. Wear a respirator and airtight protective eyewear when you're about to cut your quartz. Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.
8. **Attach a diamond saw blade to your circular saw.** A continuous diamond saw blade will give you the cleanest cuts. If you're going to use a saw blade with slots, they should be extremely narrow. If you need to switch your blade out, release the arbor nut in the center of your circular saw, and twist it until it's loose. Carefully remove it and slip your new blade over the arbor nut and tighten it in place.
You may need to remove a blade guard before placing your new blade over the arbor nut.
9. **Set up a straight edge parallel to your longest lengthwise cut with clamps.** Use a leveler or framing square if you have one. Place your straight edge next to a line that you plan to cut and attach it to your quartz using clamps. Place the edge of your circular saw's base plate along the straight edge to see if your grease marking line aligns with your saw's guiding line. If it doesn't, adjust your straight edge accordingly.
Make your longest cut first so that you have a much smaller piece of quartz to work with. This will make the remaining portion of you slab easier to move and brace.
10. **Adjust the blade in your circular saw to cut through the quartz.** You want your blade to go all the way through the bottom of the quartz. Lift the blade guard and use the lever next to your saw's handle to adjust the blade so that it sticks out roughly 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) past the bottom of your slab. Lock your blade guard in place and rest the base plate on top of the quartz near the area you're cutting.
11. **Check your guiding line and pull the trigger on your saw to start cutting.** Put both hands on the top handles of your circular saw, and line up the guiding line on the base plate with your grease marker line. Pull the trigger on your circular saw and wait for it to reach full speed before pushing it forward slightly.
Keep your straight edge on the right side of your circular saw's handle. This will ensure that your saw doesn't go sliding away from the guiding line when you apply pressure to it.
12. **Cut all the way through your grease marker line.** Let the saw do most of the work. It will naturally move forward as it cuts, so you shouldn't be pushing very hard. If your saw blade begins to kickback or smoke, release the trigger on your saw and wait 1-2 minutes for you saw blade to cool off.
Smoke is more likely to occur if you're using a dry saw. A wet saw is going to prevent heat from building up, but you're unlikely to have a wet saw laying around your workshop. Consider renting a wet saw if you want to avoid a smoking blade.
13. **Repeat this process to make all of your straight cuts.** The straight edge and circular saw will work for every straight cut that you have to make. Repeat this process until you've cut through every straight line on your slab of quartz.
14. **Set up your guide rail for cutting with a plunge saw.** Set up your plunge saw's guide rail on top of your guiding line. You can affix the guide rail to the quartz with clamps if you'd like, but a plunge saw guide rail is usually designed to rest on its own. Your guide rail will have an opening in the middle for you to see your grease markings.
If you have a sink with curved edges, you won't be able to use the plunge saw for the entire job. Instead, use painter's tape and wrap it around the edges where you're going to cut, and then set up your guide rail to cut a square out of the middle of your sink's outline.
A plunge saw is also known as a track saw.
15. **Line up the back of your saw blade with any corner of your sink's outline.** There is a slot or marker on the side of your plunge saw where your blade ends in the back. Release your blade all the way up so that it isn't sticking out through your base plate, and line up the corner of the sink with this line.
You'll usually have about a 1 inch (2.5 cm) margin of error. A lot of sinks don't have form-fitting lips that you need to cut perfectly into.
16. **Attach your plunge saw to the guide rail.** The guide rail that comes with your plunge saw has groves in it for you to insert the plunge saw. After you've lined up your guide rail with the grease marking, put your saw on top of the guide rail and lock it into place if it has a locking mechanism.
17. **Drop your plunge saw slowly and begin to guide it forward.** Put both hands on the handles on top of your saw, and slowly lower the blade into your quartz. Guide the saw forward slowly as you cut and stop once you've reached the corner where your next side begins. Repeat this process for each side of the sink.
If your sink is circular or round, you'll still want to cut a square out in the center. This will make working away the rest of the material easier because you'll have room to maneuver your quartz grinder.
18. **Use a grinder to work away the excess sections of a circular sink.** Use a diamond blade and wear your protective gear when working with an angle grinder. Hold it with both hands and slowly work through the excess pieces by keeping your grinder flat and parallel to the inside edge of your sink.
Using a grinder can be difficult if you've never done it before. Practice on a spare piece of quartz that you don't plan on using to get used to how it feels. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-a-Quartz-Countertop", "language": "en"} |
How to Use a Tachymeter | If you've ever wondered what that scale etched into the outer ring of your watch is, now's the time to learn! It's called a tachymeter, and it consists of a scale that runs to 3,600, which is the number of seconds in an hour. It can be used to convert time—measured in seconds per unit—into a speed measurement in units per hour. And if you're traveling in a vehicle at a constant speed, you can also use it to calculate distance traveled. While it might sound tricky, it's pretty simple once you get used to it!
1. **Locate the start of the tachymeter scale at the 6-, 7-, or 9-second mark.** Often, the tachymeter scale starts at the 7-second mark, which is at 500 units of speed. On other models, the scale either starts at 6 seconds and 600 units of speed or 9 seconds at 400 units of speed.
You can also find the tachymeter scale on the bezel—the groove that holds the watch's cover in place – or just outside of the clock face.
Take note of the number "60," which is the final number of the scale regardless of the tachymeter. For example, regardless of whether your tachymeter starts at the 6-second mark at 600 units of speed or the 7-second mark at 500 units of speed, the final number is 60 units of speed at the start of the clock.
2. **Determine the unit of the speed measurement and its markers.** Before you measure an object's speed with a tachymeter, you need to decide what unit of measurement you're using: miles or kilometers. After this, you need to make sure you can accurately determine 1 unit of this distance. For example, if you're measuring the speed of a car across 1 kilometer, make sure you have 2 reference points or markers for the start and end of this distance.
If you're driving down the highway and measuring your vehicle speed, many highways across the world have kilometer markers on exit signs—use these as your markers.
3. **Start the chronograph** The chronograph is an analog stopwatch that uses either its own hand or the seconds hand of the clock. Once the object you're measuring moves past the first marker, start the chronograph by pressing the button located at the 2 o'clock position of the watch.
If you need to reset your chronograph to 0, press the button located at the 4 o'clock position.
4. **Stop the chronograph once the object passes the second marker.** After the object passes the second marker, stop the chronograph by pressing the button at the 2 o'clock position again.
If you're having trouble starting and stopping your chronograph, take a look at the owner's manual. If you don't have one, check your watch manufacturer's website and look for a PDF copy of your model's instructions.
5. **Determine speed by the tachymeter scale value at the chronograph hand.** After stopping the chronograph, follow its hand to the tachymeter scale to obtain your speed measurement. For example, if the hand traveled to the 45-second mark, the hand aligns with 80 on the tachymeter. This means the object was traveling either 80 miles per hour or 80 kilometers per hour.
Remember that the tachymeter can only measure speeds of 60 units (miles per hour or kilometers per hour) or over.
6. **Find your watch's tachymeter scale at the 6-, 7-, or 9-second mark.** Most tachymeter scales start at the 7-second mark, which is 500 units of speed on the scale. Others start at 6 seconds and 600 units of speed or 9 seconds and 400 units of speed.
The tachymeter scale is also located along the bezel, which is the groove that holds the watch cover. On some watches, it's also located just outside of the clock face.
Be sure to note the number "60," which is the final number on all tachymeter scales
7. **Drive at a constant speed of at least 60 kilometers or miles per hour.** Tachymeters don't run less than 60, meaning you can't measure distance if you're traveling less than 60 kilometers or miles per hour. For example, if you're driving on the highway at a constant speed, note your speed on the dashboard in either kilometers or miles per hour.
8. **Start the chronograph to begin measuring your distance.** The chronograph is a stopwatch for analog watches that uses either its own hand or the seconds hand. On most watches, it can be started and stopped by pressing the button at the 2 o'clock position on the watch. If you're measuring distance, you don't need two markers—all you need to do is travel a constant speed. Once you start the chronograph, all you need to do is wait until the chronograph hand hits the tachymeter value equal to your speed.
Always remember to reset your chronograph before using it. This is typically accomplished by hitting the button at the 4 o'clock position on your watch.
9. **Determine distance when the chronograph hand hits the tachymeter value equal to your speed.** Once the chronograph hand reaches the value equal to your speed, you have traveled 1 unit of distance. For example, if your speed is 75 kilometers an hour, you have driven 1 kilometer once the chronograph hand hits the tachymeter value of 75. If you're driving 70 miles an hour, you've driven 1 mile when your chronograph hand hits 70.
If you're not traveling at least 60 units of speed, the tachymeter won't be able to give you a distance reading without additional calculations.
10. **Multiply your initial speed by 2 if you're traveling less than 60 units of speed.** Since the tachymeter runs until 60, lower speeds can't be directly measured. To measure them, you must start by multiplying your speed by 2. For example, if you're traveling 40 kilometers per hour, 40 x 2 is 80.
Remember that your speed must remain constant when measuring distance with a tachymeter.
11. **Divide the final tachymeter distance reading by 2.** When you're calculating distance traveled at less than 60 units of speed, the initial speed is always doubled. This means you must always divide the final answer by two for the speed measurement.
Be sure that you multiplied the initial speed by 2 if you're dividing the final speed reading.
Consider the previous example: you're traveling 40 kilometers an hour. If you double this number you get 80, which means you've traveled 1 kilometer when the chronograph hand hits 80. Now, divide 80 by 2 and the answer is 40. This means that you have traveled 40 kilometers. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Tachymeter", "language": "en"} |
How to Delete Items in PDF Documents With Adobe Acrobat | PDFs are used primarily for professional reasons. Because of this, it’s sometimes important to hide or remove information on a PDF, or in the metadata of a PDF. You can easily select and delete items of a PDF inside Adobe Acrobat. You can also use Adobe Acrobat’s Redaction tool. Redacted items appear as black or colored boxes.
Hidden information, such as Metadata - which contains the document author’s name, keywords and copyright information - must be removed in a particular way. Adobe Acrobat requires a subscription. Adobe Acrobat Standard costs $12.99 a month, and Adobe Acrobat Pro costs $14.99 a month.
1. **Open Adobe Acrobat.** Adobe Acrobat has a dark red icon with an icon that resembles a triangle with loops on all three corners. Click the icon to open Adobe Acrobat. You can find Adobe Acrobat in the WIndows Start menu, or in the Applications folder in the Finder on Mac.
2. **Open your file.** Use the followings steps to open a PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
Click in the menu bar in the upper-right corner.
Click in the drop-down menu below "File".
Select the PDF you want to open and click .
Alternatively, you can right-click a PDF file and then select and then select .
3. **Click the object you want to delete.** This displays options for editing the object. You can select a text box, an image or any other object.
4. **Press Delete.** This deletes your items.
To delete specific words within a text box, click the text you want to edit to display a cursor. Click and drag highlight the text you want to delete and press Delete or ← Backspace.
5. **Click File.** It's in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
6. **Click Save.** This permanently removes the items from your document. The file name will be appended with the suffex "_Redacted".
To avoid overwriting your original document, click and save your document to another location or another file name.
7. **Open Adobe Acrobat.** You may have it saved on your desktop, but you might have to search your computer for it. The easiest way is to use a search bar. PC’s will have a search bar in the bottom left, and Macs will have it in the top right.
8. **Open your file.** Use the followings steps to open a PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
Click in the menu bar in the upper-right corner.
Click in the drop-down menu below "File".
Select the PDF you want to open and click .
Alternatively, you can right-click a PDF file and then select and then select .
9. **Click the Pages icon.** It's the icon that resembles two sheets of paper stack on top of one another. It's at the top of the toolbar on the left side.
10. **Click the pages you want to delete.** The pages are listed in a column to the left. Click a page to select it. To select multiple pages, hold Ctrl and select all the pages you want to delete.
11. **Click the trash can icon.** It's above the column with the list of pages on the left.
12. **Click Ok in the pop-up windows.** This confirms that you want to delete the pages you selected and permanently deletes them.
13. **Click File.** It's in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
14. **Click Save.** This permanently removes the items from your document. The file name will be appended with the suffex "_Redacted".
To avoid overwriting your original document, click and save your document to another location or another file name.
15. **Open Adobe Acrobat.** You may have it saved on your desktop, but you might have to search your computer for it. The easiest way is to use a search bar. PC’s will have a search bar in the bottom left, and Macs will have it in the top right.
16. **Open your file.** Use the followings steps to open a PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
Click in the menu bar in the upper-right corner.
Click in the drop-down menu below "File".
Select the PDF you want to open and click .
Alternatively, you can right-click a PDF file and then select and then select .
17. **Click Tools.** It's in the secondary menu bar at the top of the screen.
18. **Click Redact.** It has a tool that resembles a pink highlighter. It's below "Protect & Standardize" in the Tools menu.
19. **Select the items you want to redact.** This can be any aspect of the document, including pictures. Use the following steps to select an object to redact:
Double-click to select a word or image.
Click and drag to select a line, block of text, or an area of the document.
To select multiple spots, hold Ctrl while you select the next part.
If you want a redaction mark to repeat across pages - such as a header or footer in the same place each page - right-click it and select “Repeat Mark Across Pages.”
20. **Click Apply.** It's in the secondary toolbar that appears at the top of the screen.
21. **Click Ok.** This confirms that you want to redact the selected items.
If you want to remove hidden information from the document. click in the dialogue box.
22. **Click File.** It's in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
23. **Click Save.** This permanently removes the items from your document. The file name will be appended with the suffex "_Redacted".
To avoid overwriting your original document, click and save your document to another location or another file name.
24. **Open Adobe Acrobat.** You may have it saved on your desktop, but you might have to search your computer for it. The easiest way is to use a search bar. PC’s will have a search bar in the bottom left, and Macs will have it in the top right.
25. **Open your file.** Use the followings steps to open a PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
Click in the menu bar in the upper-right corner.
Click in the drop-down menu below "File".
Select the PDF you want to open and click .
Alternatively, you can right-click a PDF file and then select and then select .
26. **Click Tools.** It's in the secondary menu bar at the top of the screen.
27. **Click Redact.** It has a tool that resembles a pink highlighter. It's below "Protect & Standardize" in the Tools menu.
28. **Click Mark for Redaction.** It's in the secondary toolbar.
29. **Click Find text.** This opens a menu bar you can use to search for text to redact.
30. **Select "In the current document" or "All PDF Documents In".** To search only the current document, click the radial button next to "In the current document". To search multiple PDFs, click "All PDF Documents In" and then use the drop-down menu below the option to select a folder containing multiple PDFs you want to redact.
31. **Select "Single word or phrase", "Multiple words or phrase", or "Patterns".** Click the radial button next to the search options and then do one of the following steps.
Type the word or phrase in the search bar below the options.
Click and then type a word or phrase you want to redact in the bar at the top of the menu. Click to add a new word or phrase and type it in the bar at the top. Click when you are finished adding all the words and phrases you want to remove.
. Use the drop-down menu to select a pattern. You can use patterns to remove phone numbers, credit cards, social security numbers, dates, email addresses.
32. **Click Search & Remove Text.** This searches the documents for all instances the text appears.
33. **Click the checkbox next to all instances you want to redact.** All instances are of the text you search for are displayed in the menu to the left. Click the checkbox next to all instances you want to redact.
You can also click Check All above the list to check everything.
34. **Click Mark Checked Results for Redaction.** This marks all the checked instances for redaction.
35. **Click Apply.** It's in the secondary toolbar that appears at the top of the screen.
36. **Click Ok.** This confirms that you want to redact the selected items.
If you want to remove hidden information from the document. click in the dialogue box.
37. **Click File.** It's in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
38. **Click Save.** This permanently removes the items from your document. The file name will be appended with the suffex "_Redacted".
To avoid overwriting your original document, click and save your document to another location or another file name.
39. **Open Adobe Acrobat.** You may have it saved on your desktop, but you might have to search your computer for it. The easiest way is to use a search bar. PC’s will have a search bar in the bottom left, and Macs will have it in the top right.
40. **Open your file.** Use the followings steps to open a PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
Click in the menu bar in the upper-right corner.
Click in the drop-down menu below "File".
Select the PDF you want to open and click .
Alternatively, you can right-click a PDF file and then select and then select .
41. **Click Tools.** It's in the secondary menu bar at the top of the screen.
42. **Click Redact.** It has a tool that resembles a pink highlighter. It's below "Protect & Standardize" in the Tools menu.
43. **Click Remove Hidden Information.** It’s in the secondary toolbar under the "Hidden Information" section title.
44. **Check all items you want to remove.** What you see here is the document’s metadata, comments, or file attachments. Check the boxes next to any information you’d like to remove in the sidebar menu to the left.
By clicking the + next to each type of entry and subentry in this dialog box, you'll be able to see each entry that will be removed. The ones that are checked will be removed after following through with this method.
45. **Click Remove.** It's above the list of items you can check in the sidebar to the left.
46. **Click Ok.** .It's in the pop-up alter that appears when you click "Remove".
47. **Click File.** It's in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
48. **Click Save.** This permanently removes the items from your document. The file name will be appended with the suffex "_Redacted".
To avoid overwriting your original document, click and save your document to another location or another file name. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Delete-Items-in-PDF-Documents-With-Adobe-Acrobat", "language": "en"} |
How to Make Artificial Flowers | Making your own artificial flowers is a great way to create long-lasting blooms that won't cost you a fortune. You'll need coffee filters, tissue paper, or fabric to make simple ruffled flowers that will brighten any space. If you'd like to make realistic looking flowers, use colored materials and arrange the petals so they look natural. Your artificial flowers will look beautiful in a bouquet or on your next craft project!
1. **Place coffee filters into dye if you'd like to make colorful flowers.** Squirt about 3 tablespoons (44 ml) of acrylic or latex paint into a large pan or bowl and stir in ⁄2 cup (120 ml) of water until they're combined. Then, stir in 2 cups (470 ml) of water and submerge up to 20 round coffee filters of any size. Keep the filters in the dye for 2 to 3 minutes for pale flowers or up to 15 minutes for bold colored flowers.
Keep in mind that if you use larger coffee filters, you can make bigger flowers.
If you're making white flowers, you can skip dying the coffee filters.
2. **Remove the filters and dry them in a single layer.** Once the filters are the color you want, use tongs or your fingers to lift them out of the paint. Let the excess paint drip back into the pan and lay the filters on a wire rack. They'll dry faster in a single layer so don't stack the filters on the rack.
The filters should dry within 20 or 30 minutes, depending on your climate.
3. **Take a filter and cut it into a spiral.** Spread 1 of the dried coffee filters flat and use sharp scissors to make it into a spiral shape. The spiral strip should be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide as you cut your way to the center of the filter.
Once you've finished cutting the spiral, you'll be able to stretch the ends of the filter to make a long skinny strip.
4. **Cut a 12 in (30 cm) piece of tape and stick the center of the spiral on it.** Tear off a long piece of masking tape and lay it sticky side up on your work surface. Then, place the end of the filter strip about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the tape's end.
You should use the rounded end of the filter so it will become the middle of your flower.
In order to make a simple stem for the flower, consider using green masking tape.
5. **Pleat and gather the filter across the bottom half of the masking tape.** To pleat the paper filter, just fold it over onto itself so it ribbons slightly. Press it down onto the bottom half of the tape so it gathers. Then, keep folding as you move down the tape.
Leave space along the top of the masking tape so you'll be able to wrap and seal the stem of the flower.
You'll now have a ruffled strip of filter across the length of the masking tape.
6. **Stick the end of the tape on a straw and wrap the strip around it.** Press the tip of a straw on the bottom end of the tape that doesn't have the ruffled filter. Then, wrap the tape around it and keep rolling the straw on the tape until you reach the end of the strip. This will form the ruffled filter flower.
If you don't want to use a straw, you can use a thin strip of wire or a plastic stem from old artificial flowers.
7. **Wrap green tape around the straw to create the stem.** Cut off a long piece of green masking tape and stick it near the base of the flower. Then, wrap the tape diagonally as stick it around the entire straw. This will make the flower's stem.
You can keep creating flowers with the other dyed filters you made.
8. **Cut out 10 squares of tissue paper.** You can make the squares any size you like, but make them as wide as you'd like the flower to be. For example, you can make the squares 3 by 3 inches (7.6 cm × 7.6 cm) for a medium-sized flower.
If you'd like to make more than 1 flower, cut 10 squares for each flower you want to create.
To save time, you can stack several layers of tissue when you cut the squares.
9. **Stack the squares and staple the center.** Ensure that the sides of the tissue paper squares are lined up before you staple them together. The layers of tissue paper will become the frilled petals of your flower.
10. **Cut the tissue paper square into a circle.** Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut a circle around the stapled center of your tissue paper. Make the circle as wide as you want the flower to be.
If you'd like to be precise, you can trace a circle before you begin cutting.
11. **Separate each layer and pinch them up in the center.** Peel up 1 layer of tissue paper at a time and scrunch it away from the staple in the middle. You can be firm as you gather each layer because this will make the ruffled texture of the petals.
Once you've finished gathering the layers near the center, it will look like a small flower that's starting to open.
12. **Unfurl the petals to shape your tissue paper flower.** Use your thumbs to gently tug the layers of tissue paper apart. Work across the entire flower so it fills out and looks like a rounded blossom.
You can keep the bottom layer of tissue paper flat so it's easier to attach your flower to a bouquet or project.
13. **Gather silk or polyester fabric.** Choose fabric in your favorite color or use several colors in different hues to make realistic looking flowers. For example, choose peach, coral, and yellow to create a vibrant colored flower.
If you're using polyester fabric, consider working with satin, organza, acetate lining, lace, or a combination of these.
14. **Cut 24 fabric petals in different sizes to make 1 flower.** You'll need to cut bean-shaped petals in 4 sizes for your flower. Specifically, cut 6 petals out of silk or polyester for each of these bean-shaped sizes:
3 by 1 ⁄4 inches (7.6 cm × 4.4 cm)
3 ⁄2 by 2 inches (8.9 cm × 5.1 cm)
4 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄2 inches (11.4 cm × 6.4 cm)
5 ⁄4 by 3 inches (13.3 cm × 7.6 cm)
15. **Light a candle and use the flame to sear the edges of each petal.** To create realistic looking petals, hold each petal close enough to the candle's flame so the edges curl slightly, but don't burn. Rotate the petal slowly to sear every side. If you're working with thick fabric, you'll need to hold it closer to the flame than if you're working with a delicate fabric.
Pay attention to how close you have to put the fabric to the flame and move the fabric closer if it's taking too long.
16. **Gather 1 of the smallest petals and stitch the bottom to secure it.** Hold the petal horizontally and roll it tightly while you hold the bottom. This will make the center of your flower. Keep the petal in place by double threading a needle and making a few whip stitches across the bottom layers.
17. **Wrap another small petal around the center petal and stitch the bottom in place.** Put 1 more of the smallest petals around the petal that you just stitched. You should keep holding the petals tightly by the base and so your flower can begin to take shape.
Remember to whip stitch the bottom again to secure the new petal.
18. **Continue to sew on the petals from smallest to largest.** Once you've attached all of the smallest petals, start adding the next smallest size until you've added all of them to the flower. Keep adding the petals so you use the largest petals for the outside of the flower.
You should continue to whip stitch the base of each petal so your flower doesn't unravel.
19. **Tie off the thread and unfurl the petals.** Tie a knot at the base of your flower and trim the thread. Then, use your fingers to gently pull back the petals at the top of your flower to make them look like they're blossoming.
You can now attach the flowers to stems for a bouquet or hot glue them onto bows or wreaths. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Artificial-Flowers", "language": "en"} |
How to Wear Crop Tops Without Showing Your Stomach | Crop tops are super trendy right now, but that doesn't mean you have to show a ton of skin if you want to wear one. There are so many easy ways to rock a crop top without baring your stomach. Layer tops under or over your crop top or pair one with high-waisted bottoms. You can even find crop tops that are longer or less form-fitting so you can wear them with anything in your closet. Problem solved!
1. **Put on a camisole underneath your crop top for an elegant look.** A pretty camisole will cover your tummy while allowing your crop top to be the focal point of your outfit. Pick a cami that complements the color of the crop top and add your favorite pants, shorts or skirt to complete the outfit.
A pretty lace cami underneath a solid crop top will give your outfit a feminine vibe. Add a pair of palazzo pants and flats for a totally on-trend outfit.
2. **Pair your crop top with a button-up for a preppy vibe.** A crisp button-up can turn a crop top into a more modest garment. Simply put on your favorite button up and layer the crop top over it. These tops pair well with any kind of bottoms, including trousers, jeans, or a skirt.
A solid button-up underneath a patterned crop top and low-rise wide-leg jeans makes a great outfit for school or shopping.
For a more formal option, pair a white button-up with a solid-colored crop top and dress pants. Add heels and a few pieces of understated jewelry to complete the look.
This look works better with a slightly more form-fitting crop top, but make sure it isn't too tight, since that might bunch up the button-up!
3. **Wear a T-shirt underneath your crop top for an easy solution.** You can wear almost any kind of shirt underneath a crop top, and you’re sure to have a few T-shirts lying around. Just slip one on underneath your crop top for a comfy, stylish option. Since this outfit has a more casual feel, jeans or a denim skirt are great pairings.
A long-sleeved tee works well for this.
4. **Toss a cardigan or blazer over your crop top if it’s chilly.** If you want to wear a crop top without showing your stomach, layer a vest, sweater, or jacket over top and button it underneath your bust. Add trousers or a pencil skirt for a more professional look.
Choose skinny trousers, ankle boots, a crop top, and a blazer in dark, neutral colors for a stylish, monochromatic outfit.
Alternatively, toss a denim vest over a solid-colored crop top and pair it with tight, printed leggings. Slip on some sneakers and head out the door.
5. **Opt for high-rise pants or shorts to create a casual vibe.** If you’re not a fan of showing your stomach, you’re in luck because high-rise pants are all the rage right now. Pair your favorite crop top with high-rise trousers for a fashionable outfit that won’t leave you feeling exposed.
Wide-legged high-rise jeans would look great with a patterned crop top and heels. Put on a statement necklace and grab an oversized handbag to finish off your look.
Pair a crop top with high-waisted shorts and sandals for an easy, breezy outfit.
6. **Select a high-waisted skirt for a feminine feel.** A pencil skirt that hits above your belly button is a great garment to pair with a crop top. Alternatively, choose a skirt that just brushes the ground for a more whimsical vibe.
A high-waisted maxi skirt in a luxe fabric and a long-sleeved crop top would make an elegant outfit for any occasion. Dangly earrings and a simple necklace are the perfect accessories for this ensemble.
Or, choose a high-waisted peplum skirt, a cropped button-up, and pumps for a stylish get-up with a vintage feel.
7. **Wear overalls over your crop top for a trendy look.** Overalls are super fashionable at the moment and they’re a great pairing for crop tops, especially if you don’t want to flaunt your belly button. Choose a more relaxed fit if you don’t mind showing your sides, or opt for a form-fitting pair if you’d rather be more covered up.
Pair a black crop top with white overall shorts and platforms for a fun and flirty summer look. Add a few sparkly bracelets and a pair of oversized sunglasses to complete your outfit.
8. **Choose a longer style to hide your midriff.** Not all crop tops end just below the bust. If you want a more conservative option, find a crop top with a longer hem. One that hits just below your belly button will allow you to choose pants or a skirt with a lower rise without showing skin.
9. **Select a flowy crop top so you don’t feel as exposed.** Crop tops don’t have to be skin tight! Look for ones that are made of fabric that won’t cling to your body, like chiffon, knit, or cotton. Choose a top that gently flows away from your body. The extra fabric will help cover your tummy, no matter what kind of bottoms you choose to pair with it.
For a trendy summer style, wear a flared crop top with high-rise shorts. Add gladiator sandals and aviators to finish off your ensemble.
10. **Opt for a crop top with a boxy shape to balance your outfit.** If you prefer more form-fitting pants, choose a boxy crop top to go with them. That way, your entire outfit isn’t too tight or restricting. Put a cami on underneath to cover your tummy and you’re ready to go!
Fitted trousers and a striped crop top with a loose fit is the perfect outfit for Sunday brunch or running errands. Add boots or heels, a handbag, and stud earrings for a chic look. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Wear-Crop-Tops-Without-Showing-Your-Stomach", "language": "en"} |
How to Fight a Cell Phone Ticket | Many states across the United States have enacted legislation restricting the use of cell phones while operating a motor vehicle. If you get a cell phone ticket, you face fines as well as points on your license. Even a few points on your license could increase your insurance rates, and with too many points you could lose your license. You can fight a cell phone ticket by going to court and arguing your case before a judge, or writing a letter declaring your innocence. If nothing else, you may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges.
1. **Plead not guilty to the infraction.** Your copy of the citation will have information, usually on the reverse side, on what to do if you want to fight the ticket. Read this information very carefully, because you typically have a limited amount of time to plead not guilty.
In some jurisdictions you have to make a trip to the courthouse if you want to plead not guilty. Others allow you to do it through the mail or even online.
2. **Schedule a trial date.** Simply pleading not guilty does not necessarily mean you must appear before a judge. Typically you must request an in-person hearing. The court clerk may assign a date for your hearing, or you may get to choose one from the court's calendar yourself.
Make note of your hearing date and make sure you'll be available on that date. If something happens and you can't make your court date, you may be able to change it, but it can be difficult to do so.
3. **Consult an attorney.** You typically don't need an attorney to fight a cell phone ticket in traffic court. Since there's no possibility of you going to jail, you won't be entitled to appointed counsel if you can't afford to hire someone on your own.
Most traffic law attorneys provide a free initial consultation, which you can use to get some advice on your odds of prevailing at trial.
If you do decide to hire an attorney, keep in mind that you'll probably pay more in attorney's fees than you would have spent if you'd just paid the fine. However, it may be worth the expense if you don't get any points on your driving record.
4. **Gather evidence for trial.** At your hearing, you'll have the opportunity to make legal arguments, introduce physical evidence, and even call witnesses to testify in support of your defense.
For example, if there was someone with you in the car, you may want them to testify that you weren't on the phone, or weren't texting, when the officer pulled you over.
Phone records can be used as evidence. For example, if your phone record indicates that no calls were made on your phone immediately before the officer pulled you over, you can present that in court as evidence that your ticket was issued in error and should be dismissed.
Sometimes the ticket itself can be your strongest piece of evidence. Look over it carefully and make sure there aren't any errors. You may be able to get the infraction dismissed if, for example, your name is misspelled, or the officer misidentified your car.
5. **Go to court on your hearing date.** On the date your hearing is scheduled, arrive at court 30 minutes to an hour before the time of your hearing. This gives you time to go through courthouse security and find the correct courtroom.
Dress appropriately in clean, conservative clothing. You don't necessarily have to wear a business suit, but you should at least dress as though you're going to a job interview.
Bring along your copy of your citation and any paperwork from the court. If you have documents you plan to present as evidence, bring originals along with at least 2 copies.
Leave electronic devices at home. If you have to keep your mobile phone on you, make sure you've turned the ringer off. The court will have a list of other items that are not allowed in courtrooms. Check it beforehand so you don't have anything with you that might get confiscated.
6. **Meet with the prosecutor.** In some jurisdictions, you'll have a one-on-one meeting with the prosecutor assigned to your case before the trial begins. This meeting typically takes place in a courthouse meeting room.
If you are supposed to meet with the prosecutor, you can go to the clerk's office and find out where that meeting will take place.
At the meeting, the prosecutor will discuss the infraction with you. They may offer to reduce the charge if you are willing to plead guilty.
You can tell the prosecutor about the evidence you plan to present at trial. If you have a strong case, the prosecutor may decide not to take any further action.
7. **Argue your case to the judge.** If you don't make a deal with the prosecutor, your case will go to trial. Sit in the gallery of the courtroom until your case is called, then move to the front to present your defense.
The prosecutor typically will speak first. Look to see if the officer who issued your ticket is there. If they're not, the prosecutor won't have any witnesses against you and you may win by default. When the judge asks for your defense, tell them that the prosecution hasn't proven its case against you.
Address your arguments to the judge directly, speaking in a loud, clear voice. Refer to the judge as "your honor." Using "sir" or "ma'am" is also appropriate. Avoid arguing with the judge or talking over them.
8. **Ask about your appeal options.** If the judge declines to rule in your favor, you can typically appeal the ruling. An appeal isn't a new trial. Your chances of success depend on whether there was enough evidence at trial to justify the judge's decision.
The court will have "notice of appeal" forms for you to fill out to get the appeals process started. You'll have to pay filing fees, typically a few hundred dollars. If you can't afford the filing fees, you may qualify for a fee waiver.
If you decide you want to appeal, it may be a good idea to hire an attorney to assist you.
You usually have a limited time to indicate that you want to appeal. If you want to hire an attorney, you may need to file your notice of appeal first.
9. **Research the law.** The officer who pulled you over may not have been entirely familiar with the exact wording of your state's distracted driver law. This can work to your advantage, since when you plead not guilty by mail you're communicating directly with the judge.
Get a copy of your state's law. You can also go to the public law library (typically located in the courthouse) and search for any appellate court cases that might have interpreted the law. Get the law librarian at the public law library to help you.
Make copies of anything you find that applies to your situation, or indicates that your ticket should be dismissed. You can include them with your letter to the judge.
10. **Submit a letter to the judge pleading not guilty.** If you are allowed to do a "trial by declaration," you can submit a declaration of your innocence in writing and never have to go to court. Many courts have forms you can use.
Include only facts that are directly relevant to the infraction. Whining about how the ticket should be dismissed because you don't want your insurance rates to go up, for example, won't do you any good.
If you have any evidence, such as a copy of your phone record or a copy of a case you found with facts similar to your situation, include a copy with your letter.
One advantage of fighting your ticket this way is that often the officer who issued your citation will not respond. Officers typically are more likely to show up in court than they are to respond to a declaration, which they just see as more paperwork.
11. **Wait for the court's decision.** Once your letter is received, the court will submit it to the officer who issued your citation. The officer will have a deadline by which to respond. Then the judge evaluates all the information provided.
You may have been given a specific date by which the judge's decision will be made. Some courts simply provide you an estimated period of time.
If several months go by and you haven't received anything from the court, contact the clerk's office to check on the status. Make sure they have the correct address for you.
12. **Request a new trial if you're not happy with the judge's decision.** When you have a trial by declaration, you may be able to have a new trial in person at the courthouse. Check the notification of the court's decision to find out your deadline to request a new trial.
The court will have forms for you to fill out to request your trial. There may be a fee for filing these forms.
In this trial, the court starts over completely, and will not consider the result of your trial by declaration. You also have the opportunity to introduce new evidence if you have it.
13. **Talk to an attorney.** To get a cell phone ticket reduced, you typically need to negotiate with the prosecutor or State's attorney who has been assigned to your case. If you're not comfortable negotiating with an attorney, you may want to hire your own attorney to assist you.
An experienced local traffic attorney will have worked with the prosecutors before, and will have a good working relationship with them. This can help them work out a better deal than you may be able to get on your own.
14. **Read up on the law in your state.** State's attorneys only like to prosecute cases where they feel they have a good chance of success. If you can find something in the law that creates a reasonable doubt, the state's attorney will be more willing to bargain with you.
For example, in some states the courts have carved out exemptions to the law if you are consulting a map or GPS on your phone while driving. If that's what you were doing when you got the ticket, you may have some leeway you can use to get the charges reduced.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has a map and table that summarizes distracted driving laws in all 50 states. Go to http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/laws/cellphonelaws/maphandheldcellbans?topicName=Distracted%20driving#map and hover your cursor over your state for more detail.
15. **Set up a meeting with the prosecutor.** The prosecutor or State's Attorney assigned to your case has the authority to reduce your infraction, let you pay a smaller fine, or even decide not to pursue any further action on your case.
In some jurisdictions you'll automatically meet with the prosecutor before you appear in court on the date of your hearing. In others, you'll need to call the prosecutor's office directly and find out who has been assigned to your case.
Some prosecutors will be willing to talk with you on the phone, while others will want you to come down to their office.
16. **Negotiate for a non-moving violation.** While you'll still have to pay a fine if you get your cell phone ticket reduced to a non-moving violation, you typically don't get any points on your license for a non-moving violation.
While you may not consider this "fighting" the ticket (since you still have to pay a fine), you'll save money and stress in the long run. You won't have to worry about your insurance rates going up, or having points on your license. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Fight-a-Cell-Phone-Ticket", "language": "en"} |
How to Bowl a Strike | Do you want to roll turkeys (three strikes in a row), or string strikes like the pros? It is certainly within the physical capabilities of most people. All you need is to find your proper starting position; develop a fundamentally solid and repeating swing, then practice. If you are naturally athletic and reasonably proficient at repeating motions, much practice may even be required. Watch out, though—bowling is addictive.
1. **Determine whether you will be using a "house ball" or will be buying your own.** Most people start with a "house ball" and "house shoes" as this is the cheapest option. There are normally many "house balls" to choose from and these are supplied, free-of-charge, by the bowling alley. Shoes may be rented for one price which covers your entire bowling session.
The other option is get your own ball and have it custom-fitted to your hand for your individual swing and release. The fitting and drilling can often be accomplished on the spot (if the resident pro is in the bowling center at the time). The pro will be able to advise you on the best ball composition and weight for your skill level, budget, bowling style, and aspirations.
You might be able to find a bargain ball online or in a local store, but you will likely have trouble sorting all the options and should expect to pay the pro to fit you and drill the ball. It is not recommended to get your ball fitted and drilled at a box store unless they specialize in sporting equipment, and, in particular, bowling supplies. If you buy from the pro shop, though, you will have free advice and free drilling.
2. **Decide on your grip.** If you purchase your ball, you will have two basic choices:
The where the middle and ring finger go into the ball up to the second joint of each finger. This is the only grip option if you are using a "house ball." In this option, a custom ball is drilled to accommodate the natural slant of your fingers in relation to each other and to the radius of the ball. Don't worry about this, though—the pro will take care of all the measurements and should make adjustments over your next few bowling sessions. There should be no charge for the adjustments, but ask just to be sure.
The in which the middle and ring finger go into the ball only up to the first joint. The fingertip grip affords more leverage at release, allowing you to put more "juice" on the shot—that is, impart more revolutions on the ball per unit time. Normally, with a fingertip grip, there will be rubberized inserts in each finger hole. These afford a surer grip. Again, the pro will set you up and should make adjustments gratis.
3. **Get your ball fitted and drilled.** If you are purchasing your ball, the pro will take care of measuring your hand. Have the pro watch a couple of your shots. That way the fit will account for your natural delivery style. If you have not bowled before, you might want to get a bit of instruction before showing the pro your shot. If you ask, the pro will give you a quick run-down on the basics and get you started off on the right foot. In the meantime, finish reading this article to get a basic idea of the fundamental bowling swing which will get you strike after strike after strike.
Undoubtedly the pro will offer you the opportunity to purchase a bag and recommended accessories. You can purchase these on the spot or wait and see what turns up in the local thrift shops. Often bowling equipment shows up in good shape and you can pick up a ball for the kids and a bag for yourself. Really all you need at this point is a bowling ball sling, also known as a buffer bag.
4. **Pick your bowling shoes.** It is mandatory that you use shoes specially designed for bowling. These have medium-soft, rubber heels which stop you smoothly, but quickly at the release point. The soles are of leather and are designed to slide smoothly across the approach boards as you prepare to release your shot. Rental shoes are available at the desk and are normally paid for when you get your lane assignment.
If you plan to join a weekly bowling league, house shoes are often included with the weekly fees. Ask about this. If your center does not include free shoes for leagues, you will save money, overall, by purchasing your own shoes right away. They will be available in the pro shop or you can shop for bargains around town and online.
A word of caution about the shoes: Take care not to step in any liquid or spills. Bowling shoes are designed to slide smoothly right until the release. If you step in water, for example, your slide will stop soon as it starts, which is dangerous and may cause injury.
5. **Choose a house ball.** Balls come in various weights which will likely be stamped into the balls. Alternatively, the balls will be color-coded. For the color-coded option, the key should be posted conspicuously in the bowling center. If not, ask at the desk.
Pick a ball which seems fairly light. Holding the ball cradled in both hands, extend your arms fully in front of your chest. If you can hold the ball for only a couple of seconds without straining, you have found a good starting weight. If the ball wants to drop as soon as you push it away from your body, the ball is too heavy—try something a bit lighter. If you can hold the ball at arm's length for quite some time, the ball is way too light. You want the heaviest ball that you can reasonably control. If it is too light, you will be able to jerk it this way and that during the swing and you will have inconsistent results.
Support the ball with your non-dominant hand underneath. Insert the thumb of your bowling hand (your dominant hand) into the largest diameter hole and drape your middle finger and ring finger over the two remaining holes.
Look for something where the crease of the second joint of both fingers is just over the edge of each hole. If the finger holes are too far away and the edge of the hole falls between your first and second joint, you will not be able to seat your fingers into the holes all the way—the span is too great. On the other hand, if the span is too small, the palm of your hand will not rest on the ball surface and you will, necessarily, adopt a pincher grip. This is not a power grip and will result in a weak shot and relatively few strikes.
Take the time to find at least one ball with a proper, comfortable span for your hand. If you are having a truly difficult time finding a ball of your targeted weight that has the proper span, there is a strong possibility that you have picked a weight that is too heavy or light. The heavier balls will normally have a larger span, so you will need to look at balls that are heavier or lighter according to your needs. If you are having trouble, ask the bowling center staff for assistance. They will help you arrive at a reasonable compromise for weight and span.
If you have identified several balls of the proper starting weight and span, look for the one with the snuggest, most comfortable finger holes. Typically, the finger holes are drilled over-large. If you are finding that your fingers do not fit in the balls, you have chosen a weight that is too light, perhaps a kid's weight with proportionately smaller finger holes. You want holes which are fairly snug, but release your fingers easily.
6. **Determine your starting distance from the foul line.** Stand with your back to the pins and your heels at the foul line. Take four and a half normal steps toward the scoring area and note the location where your toe-tip ends. Generally this will be between the five round dots and the start of the approach.
If you find that your normal steps take you off of the alley, your will have to start with your heels hanging a bit off the raised approach area and start with smaller steps, building your pace and the length of your steps as you get closer to the foul line. In this way you will avoid going over the line which stretches from gutter to gutter (at the start of the gutter).
If you go over the foul line or any part of your body touches the lane past this line, your pin fall is not counted and the pins are reset. However, you still lose your shot (two per frame, maximum, but possibly three shots in the tenth frame only.)
7. **Start with the toe of your on the board with the center dot.** Before you start rolling strikes in every frame, you'll need to figure out the best possible position from which to start your approach. Your non-dominant foot will be whichever is opposite your bowling hand. If you bowl right, this will be your left foot. Put your left foot forward, aligned just behind the center dot.
Eventually, you can adjust your starting alignment based on your natural tendencies, but to start out and gauge your aim, try starting in the center.
8. **Aim for the second arrow from the gutter on your dominant side.** About fifteen feet from the foul line, you'll see the directional arrows that help you aim.
The center of the lane is generally the most oily part. Keeping the ball somewhat to the side is a good way to maximize your traction on the lane.
9. **Take several practice rolls to see where the ball goes.** Bowl naturally, keeping your shoulders parallel with the foul line and swinging your arm forward as straight as possible. Follow through when you release. Your hand should extend as if you were going to shake someone's hand. Pay careful attention to where the ball lands.
The "pocket" is the area immediately to one or the other side of the lead pin, and is the area you want to hit to consistently roll strikes. Did you hit the pocket? If so, you've found the correct starting position for your swing. You'll want to align your non-dominant foot with the center dot.
10. **Move in the direction of your miss.** If you missed right, start your next throw a dot to the right of the center point. If you missed left, do the opposite. While this may seem counter-intuitive, missing to one side means that your ball is hooking too early or too late. Keep the ball dead on by moving toward your miss.
After several practice throws you should be able to find your optimum starting position from which to bowl. From there, you can tweak your throw to improve your chances of hitting a strike every time.
11. **Practice your curve.** Pro bowlers all bowl with some "English," or curvature on the ball. Because the pocket you're aiming for is somewhat on an angle, the best way to hit it is to curve the ball in toward the pocket from the edge of the lane. This is why you aim for an arrow to the side of the center.
The best way to ensure English on your throw is to maintain good "handshake" position on your follow-through. After you release the ball, your hand should be up in the air as if you were going to shake the hand of the pin you're aiming toward.
12. **Find the right bowling ball.** Using a ball that is too heavy or too light can drastically affect your accuracy. Experiment with balls that are slightly heavier than what feels normal and balls that are slightly lighter than you would normally use. Does your accuracy improve in either direction?
13. **Find the right speed.** Firing the ball from the rocket launcher that is your bowling arm may seem like a good idea at first, but it's not necessarily the most accurate way to throw. Extra force will often leave pins on the floor that softer and more accurate throws will pick up. In general, though, you should throw the ball with as much force as you can throw accurately.
Some modern alleys track the speed of your ball. Try to reduce the speed of your shot in small increments if you are blowing the pins off the lane. Slower, precise pocket hits will keep the pins on the lane and allow them to mix, improving your chance of clearing the deck and producing a strike.
14. **Adjust your grip on the bowling ball.** Gripping too tightly, particularly with the thumb, can hook the ball in an inaccurate direction. Insert your fingers into the ball first. If you've got an appropriately fitted bowling ball, they should go in as far as your big knuckle. Use your non-bowling hand to steady the ball on your approach.
You'll typically want the thumb to release the ball a split second before the fingers. Make sure your fingernails are neat and trimmed to avoid catching on the fingerholes and throwing wonky balls. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Bowl-a-Strike", "language": "en"} |
How to Heal Cracks in Your Tongue | Having cracks in your tongue is a sign of a condition known as fissured tongue. Though it’s usually harmless and benign, it can cause a burning sensation and could lead to a potential infection if food particles get lodged between the cracks. It can also be unsightly and embarrassing. Fortunately, fissured tongue often doesn’t require any medical treatment and you can heal the cracks on your own with a few healthy habits. However, if your tongue shows signs of an infection, or you’re unable to heal the cracks on your own, you’ll need to visit your doctor for treatment.
1. **Brush your teeth at least twice a day to keep your mouth clean.** The best way to heal cracks in your tongue is to keep your mouth clean. Brushing your teeth is a critical part of good oral hygiene, allowing you to remove food and debris from your teeth, gums, and tongue. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush that’s comfortable for you and brush your teeth in a circular motion for at least 2 minutes. Brush your teeth at least twice a day to help your tongue heal.
Make it a habit to brush your teeth in the morning and before you go to bed each night.
2. **Scrub the surface of your tongue when you brush your teeth.** Whenever you’re brushing your teeth, turn the brush so the bristles are pointing down and scrub the surface of your tongue to remove any food or debris in the cracks. Keeping the cracks clean will reduce the number of bacteria in them, which will help your tongue heal.
It’s always a good idea to scrub your tongue when you brush your teeth, even when there aren’t cracks in it. It helps keep it clean and it makes your breath smell better!
3. **Floss at least once a day to remove bits of food from between your teeth.** Flossing is an important part of maintaining oral hygiene, and it helps you get any stubborn pieces of food or debris out from between your teeth and gums. Use waxed dental floss and wrap the ends around your middle fingers. Keep the floss taut and slide it between your teeth as far down as it goes to clean between your gums as well. Make sure you get all of your teeth to keep your mouth clean so your tongue can heal quicker.
Food lodged between your teeth and gums can harbor bacteria, which love the warmth and dampness of your mouth and can spread over the surface of your tongue.
4. **Avoid using tobacco to keep your mouth healthy.** Cigarettes and oral tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco and snus, are addictive, harmful for your overall health, and can cause cracks in your tongue. If you use any tobacco products, try to quit as soon as possible to live a healthier life and to help prevent cracks in your tongue.
Quitting will also help your tongue heal faster.
5. **Call your doctor if you have signs of an infection.** If you have fissures or cracks in your tongue, then food and debris that enters your mouth can get caught in the cracks, potentially causing an infection. If you have red streaks on your tongue, your tongue is swollen and painful, or you have pus oozing out of the cracks, call your doctor right away. You may need to be prescribed an antibiotic as well as an oral antiseptic to get rid of the infection.
If you have a fever, it could also be a sign of an infection.
6. **See your dentist for a deep cleaning to help heal your tongue.** The best way to heal your tongue is to keep your mouth as clean as possible. If you’re struggling to maintain your oral hygiene or you want to get your tongue, teeth, and gums thoroughly clean, make an appointment with your dentist to get a deep cleaning.
Go to your dentist if your tongue shows signs of an infection.
7. **Talk to your doctor about the cracks in your tongue if you have psoriasis.** Psoriasis isn’t just a skin condition. It’s a chronic inflammatory disorder that can also affect the tissue in your mouth, including your tongue. If you have psoriasis, it could be causing the cracks in your tongue. Your doctor will be able to recommend treatments and prescribe medications that can help manage the underlying psoriasis to heal the cracks in your tongue.
Your doctor can also recommend changes in your diet and lifestyle that may help treat your psoriasis and heal the cracks in your tongue.
8. **Contact your doctor if your tongue won’t heal after 2 weeks.** Cracks that form in the tongue could be a sign of a vitamin deficiency or another underlying condition. If your tongue won’t heal despite practicing good oral hygiene, see your doctor. They’ll be able to examine your tongue and run tests to determine if there’s another cause. They’ll also be able to prescribe medications and special mouthwash to help heal the cracks in your tongue.
Your doctor may prescribe oral chlorhexidine, a strong disinfectant and antiseptic that you’ll gargle a few times a day to clean your tongue.
If you have a poor diet, it could cause cracks in your tongue. Your doctor can test your blood to see if you have any deficiencies. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-Cracks-in-Your-Tongue", "language": "en"} |
How to Avoid Making a Mary Sue | A "Mary Sue" (or "Gary Stu" for males) is a character who is overly perfect. Usually found in fanfiction, these characters are nearly invincible, multi-talented to the extreme, and loved by everyone except the readers. Often, Mary Sue represents the author's idealized version of themselves projected into the world of the original fiction, also known as canon. The readers can easily detect this fact. Keep reading for detailed instructions on how to keep this annoying character from showing up in your writing.
1. **Know your material.** Try not to go on hearsay, or what you've seen in two or three episodes. If you can't watch the whole season or read the entire series, that's what the Internet is for. Research your fandom.
2. **Avoid making your character related to a canon character.** While some canon characters have vague pasts that can be manipulated, a frequent and recognized (although not compulsory) trait of a Mary Sue is to be related in some way to a canon, especially one who has a strongly established past already. Your readers may find it hard to believe that the canon character has a sister he never mentioned or a son they don't remember.
3. **Make your character part of the ensemble cast, maybe even a very small part.** Your original character should not constantly be the center of the universe. Let the other characters have moments away from your new character where they don't talk or think about the new character.
4. **Let the canon characters share the spotlight with your character.** Remember why they're there. Your readers want to read about the canon characters, that's why you're writing a -fiction.
5. **Pick a realistic name.** Make sure that your chosen name fits in with the fandom. For example, don't have a Harry Potter character called Trixiebella Arwen, or a LOTR elf called Jane. There are plenty of sites online where you can research names to make sure that they fit with your chosen fandom.
Baby name sites are a good start but avoid choosing anything too crazy. Names like "Angelica Rowanna Marybelle Devenish" are ridiculous and not realistic. Don't use traits like hair color or facial features either, as most children are named at birth.
Don't use your own name, or a variation of it. This just screams "Mary Sue" to readers.
6. **Give your new character some real flaws.** Ones like impatience, obsession with looks and trouble making friends are examples of flaws within the character. They should be flaws that have real consequences for the character in his or her life and advance the story forward.
7. **Make things hard for your new character.** One of the most annoying things about Mary Sues is how easily everything comes to them: fighting skills, special talents, strong relationships, special powers that appear just in time to save the day, etc. If your character has to struggle and deal with real problems your readers will start to feel for her. If she does everything perfectly with no real adversity, they'll start to hate her.
8. **Avoid making the character show similar traits as your own.** If you do so, you might as well start a diary as everyone has a different personality and should have to freedom to choose what they want to do, so do not base their decisions on your personal opinions, beliefs, etc. This makes the story far more interesting and also makes the writing more of an interesting journey for you, stretching your writing abilities.
9. **Give different characters different reactions to your original character.** Look at the original work you're drawing from. Do all of the protagonists always agree or act the same way? Of course not. Take the canon characters' personalities into account and craft believable reactions to and relationships with your newcomer.
10. **Avoid letting your new character be the sole contributor to solving one of the major unresolved conflicts of the original fiction.** Give the glory to an established character or make it a real team effort.
11. **Tread carefully around romance.** Mary Sues are constantly winning the love of a character the author really likes or fixing up two previously unattached characters the author thinks should be together. Romance is possible in fan-fiction, but give it time to make it more realistic.
12. **Take your time.** One of the biggest flaws of Mary Sue stories is that things happen far too quickly. It will probably take a while for your new character to become really close to the canon characters, or be in a position to accomplish lots of amazing things. Go slowly. You can always write a sequel. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Making-a-Mary-Sue", "language": "en"} |
How to Talk to a Probation Officer | If you plead guilty to or were convicted of a crime, then you may have been sentenced to probation. Probation can be imposed in place of a jail sentence or after you are released from jail. As a probationer, you will face a host of requirements. One requirement is that you meet with a probation officer. Maintaining a cordial relationship with your probation officer is crucial to your ability to ultimately complete probation.
1. **Keep track of meeting dates.** You should always know when you need to meet with your probation officer. The frequency of your meetings will depend on the supervision plan crafted by your officer. Some offenders meet weekly with their probation officer. Others meet less frequently.
Sometimes you will meet in your home or at your worksite. In other situations, you may meet at the probation office.
Regardless of when and where you meet, you should always keep track of the dates for every appointment. Buy a notebook and use it only for appointments. In the notebook, you should write down the dates of all meetings.
2. **Follow your probation conditions.** It may sound obvious, but it bears repeating: you must follow all probation conditions imposed on you by the court. If you are ordered to remain drug-free, then don’t slip up. If you have to attend classes, make sure never to miss one. If the judge sentenced you to community service, complete all of your hours and do a good job.
You make your probation officer’s life easier by following the rules. Furthermore, if you regularly perform your tasks on time, then your probation officer might cut you some slack if one time you need an extra day or two to do something.
3. **Dress appropriately.** You should always look presentable when meeting with your probation officer. Wear the type of clothes you would wear to an interview for an office job. Men should wear dress pants and a collared shirt (tucked in). Women should wear slacks and a blouse or a dress.
Let your probation officer know if you have to meet immediately after work. In this way, your probation officer will understand if you show up sweaty or slightly disheveled.
4. **Appreciate the stakes.** You need to get along with your probation officer because he or she holds tremendous power over your future. For example, if you violate the conditions of your probation, then the officer must notify the court. Depending on the seriousness of the violation, the probation officer can request that the judge revoke probation.
A probation officer can also help you if you want to shorten your probation. He or she will be allowed to testify at any hearing. Judges tend to give the probation officer’s opinion great weight. If you hope to end your probation early, then you will want to establish the best relationship you can with your probation officer.
5. **Understand why you have to meet.** If a judge sentenced you to probation, then you will have to meet with your probation officer as part of your supervised release. The officer will come up with a supervision plan to help you meet the conditions of your probation and avoid any problems.
Sometimes criminal defendants also have to meet with a probation officer so that the officer can create a pre-sentence report. The officer will ask you to describe what happened, your prior criminal history, whether you ever failed to appear in court, your family history, and your employment situation. The judge will then use this report to help come up with an appropriate sentence.
Regardless of why you have to meet with a probation officer, the advice is the same.
6. **Arrive early.** You should always be prompt to any meeting. If for any reason you are running late, then call or email your probation officer so that he or she knows.
7. **Sit properly.** When talking to a probation officer, you want to speak clearly so that you are not misunderstood. The way you sit impacts how you talk. Try to sit up straight, with good posture. If you tilt your chin up slightly, your voice will sound clearer.
Always remember to breathe. The probation officer may ask you uncomfortable questions about topics you would rather not discuss. Be sure to breathe from your abdomen and not your chest. If you breathe from your chest, you will sound weak and lacking in confidence.
8. **Be honest.** You should never lie to your probation officer. You also should not make excuses for your conduct. If the probation officer asks you about your family history or the crime, be honest but don’t embellish.
You need to maintain trust with your probation officer. Many probation officers have met with a lot of offenders and have developed a sense of when someone is being untruthful. You always want the probation officer to believe you.
9. **Stay upbeat.** Your probation officer is a person, too. He or she has stresses from work or family life. Some days, your probation officer may be in a terrible mood. It is best to remain positive and enthusiastic.
10. **Look the officer in the eye.** By making eye contact, you can project confidence. Eye contact also signals that you are listening attentively to what the probation officer is saying.
You don’t have to stare. In fact, if you sense the officer is getting uncomfortable, then you should break the eye contact for a couple of seconds. However, you should make it a goal to establish eye contact repeatedly throughout the conversation.
By making eye contact, you also avoid getting distracted. This technique is especially helpful if you meet your probation officer in a public setting, like a coffee shop.
11. **Document conversations.** As best as you can, you should get documentation of each conversation you have with your probation officer. Sometimes this is easy, especially if you can communicate by email. However, if you talk on the phone or in person, then follow up the call with an email summary of your conversation.
It is important to document conversations in case something goes wrong. If the probation officer tells you inaccurate information which you rely on, then he or she might deny telling you the information at a later date. Only by documenting your conversations can you protect yourself.
12. **Avoid showing anger.** Sometimes, people get probation officers who push their buttons. The officer could act this way intentionally or unintentionally, but it is vital that you not show anger. Always bite your tongue and smile.
If you feel that the probation officer is behaving unfairly and unprofessionally toward you, then you should document the incidents. Write down what the officer says and how he or she acts. Contact your criminal defense attorney to talk about what you can do.
13. **Return calls and emails promptly.** Always keep in touch with your probation officer and don’t force him or her to have to hunt around to find you. If you cannot immediately reach the officer, then be persistent. It is your responsibility to check in.
14. **Inform the officer when you move.** If you get a new address, phone number, or email address, then your probation officer should be the first person you tell.
Also inform the officer if your job changes. Provide contact information for new the job as soon as possible.
Since the officer may make “collateral contacts” with your family or friends, then you should update the officer on any changes in your personal life. If you’re getting divorced, tell your officer.
15. **Ask the probation officer for advice.** If at any point you are struggling with something in your life, you should ask your probation officer what he or she thinks. Your probation officer might be a good resource for advice on how to get a new job or find a new place to live.
By asking your probation officer for advice, you show that you trust him or her as well. You also signal that you are open to the officer’s opinion.
16. **Do not commit additional crimes.** In addition to staying drug-free or performing community service (if required), you also need to stay crime-free. You should avoid getting arrested or receiving citations, including traffic tickets.
You can be stopped by police for anything wrong with your car, even a blown taillight. Accordingly, you should make sure your registration, inspection, and insurance is all kept up to date in case you are pulled over.
Your probation officer wants you to rehabilitate yourself and get off probation just as much as you do. Staying crime-free is a necessary part of that. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Talk-to-a-Probation-Officer", "language": "en"} |
How to Clean a Throttle Body | The throttle body of a car is responsible for controlling the engine’s air intake. A well-kept throttle body means a smoother-running car engine overall—therefore, cleaning this part from time to time is essential. Luckily, you can easily handle this car maintenance in 10 to 15 minutes, without calling a mechanic. Read on, and we’ll show you how to clean a throttle body without even having to remove it from the car!
1. **Park your car outside and locate the throttle body under the hood.** First and foremost, you’ll need plenty of space and fresh air to work. Once you’re parked in an open outdoor space, open up the hood of your car and look for the aluminum throttle body between the intake manifold and the air cleaner.
If you’re unsure how to identify the throttle body, have someone press the car’s accelerator (while the engine is off). The throttle shaft will shift noticeably since it’s connected to the gas pedal.
2. **Disconnect the ground terminal from your car’s battery.** This is a safety precaution for your vehicle. Make sure the car is turned off, then find the negative terminal under the car’s hood—it should be on top of the battery with an attached cable. Loosen the nut on the negative terminal with a wrench, remove the negative connector cable and move it away from the battery.
The battery looks like a large block with two cables attached.
The negative terminal is black and marked by a “-” symbol.
3. **Label all hoses attached to the throttle body or air ducts.** Use masking tape to create tags for each hose and coupling that must be removed to reach the throttle body. You’ll need to know which hose connects with each coupling once you’re finished cleaning and need to reattach everything.
Alternatively, you can also use specifically-designed labeling tape to mark each duct.
4. **Put on protective gear.** Since you’ll be working with chemicals under the hood of your car, it’s wise to use eye protection and rubber gloves for this job. Make sure these are both on before you start washing out the throttle body with cleaner fluid.
5. **Detach the air duct from the throttle body.** It’s usually held in place by a hose clamp, which you can loosen with a Torx or Phillips screwdriver (check the clamp to determine which one you’ll need). Gently twist and pull until you can safely detach the air duct, and be sure that you don’t disconnect any electrical wires in the process.
Some cars may have air ducts attached to either side of the throttle body, but removing one of them should be enough to expose the throttle for maintenance.
In addition, some cars may have electrical wires attached to the throttle; take care not to detach any of those while you work.
If you’re unable to remove the air ducts yourself, stop what you’re doing and take your car to a trained mechanic for throttle cleaning.
6. **Spray throttle-body cleaner in the air duct once the throttle is exposed.** Then, grab a small brush and gently scrub the interior to loosen all the varnish, dirt, and gum. For this, you can use either an old toothbrush or a soft parts-cleaning brush, and wipe off the residue with paper towels every so often to clear the throttle one area at a time.
Continue to spray, scrub, and wipe the inside of the throttle body until all the metal is clean and bare.
It’ll be easier to monitor your progress if you shine a flashlight inside the throttle body between scrubbing.
7. **Apply a small drop of general-purpose oil to the throttle shaft.** Use a cotton swab to place the drop of oil right where the throttle shaft enters the body. This is done to help your car’s throttle blade rotate smoothly until the next cleaning.
Keep in mind that you don’t need a lot of oil to do this. One drop is plenty!
8. **Clean the throttle body every 75,000 miles (121,000 km).** There’s no official ruling on how often you need to clean the throttle body, but you can keep your car running smoothly by doing this periodically. You can also look for a few signs that your car’s throttle body needs cleaning. These include:
Your car has an unsteady idle, which drops when you come to a stop, and may even lead to an engine stall.
Your car’s “Check Engine” light might turn on.
You might have a hard time shifting while driving your car.
9. **Wipe the area around the throttle with paper towels.** Remove any dirt or liquid that may have spilled onto the car’s engine (or surrounding parts) while cleaning. Ensure that you wipe everything up before reattaching all components in the car that you moved earlier.
Clean off your tools and dispose of the paper towels and rubber gloves in the trash can. Keep in mind that the cleaner fluid is flammable, so you may want to wrap the paper towels in a bag and then throw them away.
10. **Reconnect displaced ducts, tighten clamps, and reattach the battery.** First, use the labels you made to attach ducts in the right places and tighten each clamp to the same degree they were initially. Then, reconnect the battery; use your wrench to re-tighten the nut on the connector cable, securing it back in place.
Move all tools and materials out from under the hood of your car before reattaching the battery.
To ensure you’re tightening clamps accurately, think about the force that went into loosening each clamp and apply roughly the same pressure as you tighten them back up.
11. **Start your car’s engine and let it idle for a couple of minutes.** This is a quick check to make sure everything is working smoothly. When you turn on your car’s engine, note that a stumble is common. You may even experience a rough idle; both are caused by cleaner fluid and residue that fall into the intake manifold.
If either of these occurs, don’t panic. Your car will return to normal once the cleaner and residue burn away.
12. **Take your car for a test drive.** If you cleaned the throttle body as part of routine maintenance, you might not notice much difference in your car’s drivability. If you cleaned the throttle body because it was getting too grimy, you’ll likely see a performance improvement—especially when idling and shifting gears.
Even if your car doesn’t feel all that different, remember that cleaning the throttle body is supposed to be preventative. Your car will drive smoother in the long term! | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Throttle-Body", "language": "en"} |
How to Polish Petoskey Stones | Petoskey stones are fossil colonial coral. They were named after the city of Petoskey, Michigan. You can find them along the sandy beaches, inland in gravel deposits, and sold in gift stores throughout the state. As charming as the stones are, maintenance is needed to make them look shiny and feel smooth. Start by sanding the stones with various types of grit paper. Then, apply a polishing base to the stones.
1. **Use a stone file to get rid of uneven areas.** The objective is to remove any relatively small bumps and create an even shape. File around the entirety of your stones until satisfied.
Don't worry about getting rid of the scratches.
2. **Transition to sanding with 220 grit paper.** Dampen your stones with water beforehand. Hold each stone firmly in one hand, and rub the soon-to-be polished area with a steady, circular motion. Be careful not to over-sand.
3. **Rinse each stone and dry them with a towel.** If you're using a bowl of water, replace it with clean water often. The scrapings will accumulate and cloud the water if you don't. Carefully examine them for scratch marks.
4. **Repeat the aforementioned process using 400 grit paper.** This step should remove scratches from the coarser paper along with any white spots. Rinse, dry, and check your stone.
5. **Conclude the sanding with 600 grit paper.** When you think all sanding marks have been removed, sand each stone for another 5 to 10 minutes. Your stones may already look smooth and beautiful, but this paper will ensure no scratches are missed.
6. **Choose a polishing base.** Using one specifically made for rock polishing is ideal. Car-finish rubbing compounds work well, too.
7. **Apply the polishing base to your stones.** Make sure it's a small amount (size of a quarter). Ensure the corduroy or velvet piece is lightly dampened beforehand.
8. **Polish your stones in the manner you used for sanding.** Aim for a short, circular motion. Work your way from the top to the bottom.
See any scratches? Return to the 400 grit paper, and repeat the sanding process. Then, continue polishing until satisfied.
9. **Wipe them off with a cloth.** Make sure the cloth is clean and dry. Using a cotton cloth is fine. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Polish-Petoskey-Stones", "language": "en"} |
How to Build a Paver Patio | With the addition of a few rustic paver stones, you can transform a humdrum backyard into an enchanted wilderness escape. All you need is a basic plan for your new patio space and an eye-catching design for the stones themselves. Once the initial planning is out of the way, you can begin the process of excavating your lawn and installing the foundation layer-by-layer. When it’s all said and done, you’ll have an idyllic, professional-looking outdoor haven to show for your efforts.
1. **Decide where you want your patio to go.** Paver patios most often serve as an extension of the house, allowing visitors to transition from the back door or porch straight onto the stone surface. You could also reserve an out-of-the-way corner of a big yard for a private lounging area. An open, scenic spot with no trees or large plants nearby will work best.
Whatever space you choose should be roomy enough to move around in comfortably and hold a few pieces of patio furniture, along with any guests you might be entertaining in the future.
Consider drainage issues, such as runoff from the patio surface and edges, to ensure water won’t pool on the patio. If you’ll be installing an awning or overhang, consider whether you’ll also need gutters or downspouts to direct the water away from the patio.
It's also important to check the area so you can plan ahead and ensure your pavers will fit.
2. **Remove nearby obstacles.** Pull up any small shrubs, stumps, roots, and lawn decorations in the immediate vicinity and make sure the ground is free of fallen branches and other debris. Clear the area a few feet beyond your intended patio space to give yourself room to work comfortably.
Put your existing outdoor furniture into storage for now—you can replace it later once the patio is finished.
If your designated patio area is covered with mulch, remove it to another part of the garden.
3. **Line off the planned dimensions of your patio.** Once you’ve got an idea of where you want the patio to go, drop a few garden stakes to mark the perimeter. Use a tape measure to make sure your boundary lines are straight and even, then close in the perimeter with string or marking paint.
When building a patio with a curved perimeter, bend a garden hose into shape and use it to serve as a rough visual aid.
4. **Design your own custom patio.** You can also take a free-form approach to your patio's placement, if you’d prefer. This can save you quite a bit of time and labor, since you won’t have to cut the pavers to fit an area of a specific size. It will also allow you to get as creative as you like while planning your layout.
Build your patio along the contours of a winding walkway or in a small alcove where it would be difficult to find space for a traditional square or rectangular setup.
Whatever shape you decide on for your patio should make sense visually within your yard as a whole.
If you’ll be adding an awning or overhang, make sure this structure is in place (and meets proper load and weight requirements) before building the patio.
5. **Choose a design for the paver stones.** You have several different options when it comes to arranging the pavers themselves. Simple patterns like jack-on-jack (where the stones repeat like a grid) or running bond (where every other row is offset) will be the easiest to install. If you’d prefer a more lavish layout, consider a complex design like herringbone or pinwheel.
Keep in mind that more complex arrangements will likely require you to cut or otherwise modify the pavers in order to get them to fit. For this, you will need a circular saw with a diamond tip. Make sure to set the paver on a non-slip mat before beginning to cut as this will help to keep the paver in place during cutting and prevent any accidents.
6. **Contact your local utility company at least 2 days prior to digging.** To ensure you don’t hit a buried utility line, get in touch with your local utility company. Call them at least 2 days before starting your project and ask them to locate and mark buried lines on your property. This service is free and can prevent accidents and power outages.
In the U.S., call the digline at “811.” They’ll talk you through the steps you need to take to dig safely and even contact the correct utility company to mark buried lines on your property.
If past residents have made adjustments or additions to the utilities, you may need to contact a landscaping or excavating service to help you find each point of service.
7. **Dig out the patio area to a depth of 12 in (30 cm).** This will leave just the right amount of space for both the paver stones and the underlying substrate. You can take care of most of the removal using a single shovel. A hand trowel will also be useful for keeping the edges of the site clean and precise.
Since most pavers are 3 inches thick, you will need, the remaining 9 inches of the hole will be filled with gravel and paver sand to help secure everything in place.
You can use a tiller to break up the soil first and make it easier to hand shovel the required depth and remove by wheel barrow. Large areas may require a skid steer or mini-excavator or tractor with a backhoe and front bucket attachment.
When it’s complete, your paver patio should sit at or slightly above ground level.
8. **Use an elevated level to create slope as you dig.** A slight slope is necessary to promote runoff during wet weather. Cut a 1 in (2.5 cm) piece of scrap wood and tie it to the end of a level. That way, you can ensure that your finished patio has 1 in (2.5 cm) of drop off every 4 feet (1.2 m).
Ensure the slope angles away from the patio and add drainage if necessary.
You may be able to get by with a perfectly level patio if you live in a place with a hot, dry climate, or if you’ve elected to place the patio beneath an overhang.
9. **Leave room for underground utilities.** If you need to bury electrical cable for outdoor lighting, do it now before you begin adding the substrate—dirt is more forgiving on cables than rougher materials like sand and gravel. Make sure the wire or cable is rated for direct burying or is in an approved conduit. Notch the soil around the edges of the pit with your trowel and lay the cable in a straight path, avoiding kinks, coils, and splices wherever possible.
Take a few moments to check whether your lighting elements are functional. Otherwise, you'll just have to dig them back up if something goes wrong later on.
10. **Tamp the soil to flatten it.** Use a hand tamper or a plate compactor and work your way inward from the perimeter of the site. This will provide a more stable foundation for the substrate and prevent the paver stones from shifting once they’ve been put in place.
As an optional step, you can also roll out a sheet of landscaping fabric at this point to act as a buffer for weeds and prevent them from taking root beneath the gravel base.
11. **Pour 4 in (10 cm) of crushed gravel for the base.** Dump the gravel into the pit and use a heavy iron rake to distribute it out to the edges. Make sure you spread the gravel evenly, adding more until you reach the desired depth. As you did with the soil, tamp the gravel down until it’s firmly set. Wetting the gravel can help you distribute and pack it evenly.
12. **Add 3 in (7.5 cm) of leveling sand.** This layer will fill in the cracks in the gravel. It will also give the paver stones something to settle into, offering additional stability.
Snip a corner off of the bag and sift it slowly, guiding it from one side of the pit to the other.
13. **Level the sand with a flat board.** To avoid over or under-filling the base, cut a couple lengths of 1-in (2.5-cm) PVC pipe and place them parallel to one another down the middle of the pit before you pour in the sand. Then, drag a flat board, like a 2x4, along both pipes to level the heap. When you’re done, pull out the pipes, fill in the depressions, and tamp the entire surface flat.
Rather than dumping in all of the sand at once, proceed a few feet at a time—pouring, smoothing, and repeating.
14. **Lay down the paver stones from the outer perimeter.** Press the pavers gently into the leveling sand, starting at one corner of the pit and working your way toward the center. Leave a narrow gap between each stone, no less than ⅛ in (0.32 cm) and no more than ½ in (1.27 cm)—you’ll be filling in this space later with more sand.
Use photos of completed patios as a reference when figuring out the placement of your pavers.
It will take longer to embed raw stones or pavers with natural finishes, as they’ll need to be adjusted to the right height individually.
15. **Keep a consistent amount of space between each paver.** It may help to separate the stones with a sheet of plywood or with spacer blocks as you install them. Slide the plywood against the edge of the pit and drop your first stone. Then, turn the sheet 90 degrees to create a gap between the neighboring stones. Continue one row or pattern section at a time, repositioning the plywood after laying down each paver.
Keep uniformly-shaped pavers as close together as possible. Leaving space between them not only requires more joint sand to fill in the gaps, it also reduces shifting later when the joint sand loosens or is washed or blown away.
16. **Check your slope as you go.** Keep your level and a straightedge handy and refer to them frequently. Aim for approximately 1 in (2.5 cm) of drop off every 4 ft (1.2 m). This will ensure that your patio will be able to drain as needed.
Adjust the amount of substrate in a given section as needed by tamping or redistributing it.
For a flat ground patio, look for the substrate to be as level as possible before proceeding.
17. **Cut the pavers to fit if necessary.** Some full-sized stones may be too big to go in a certain spot. In this case, a wet saw or circular saw with a diamond blade, which can be rented from a home improvement store, will be required to cut through the hard stone. Assuming that you don’t have access to a power saw, you can also break down the pavers the old fashioned way using a mallet and chisel.
When you come to a paver that won’t fit, mark it with a piece of chalk so you’ll know where you need to cut.
Always wear gloves, a face mask, and ear and eye protection anytime you’re working with power saws.
18. **Tap the pavers into place with a rubber mallet.** Pound the top of the stones to set them deeper into the sand. This can be a painstaking process, but it’s crucial for ensuring that the pavers are stable enough to stand, walk and set furniture on.
Don’t attempt to secure the pavers by simply stomping on them. This may cause them to sink too deep, or knock them out of alignment.
If you find that the pavers are sitting unevenly, you may need to work them deeper into the substrate by hand.
19. **Fill the gaps between the pavers with another layer of sand.** Spread an additional ½ in (1.25 cm) of levelling sand over the tops of the stones. Use a broom to carefully push the sand into the spaces between the pavers. Sweep in several different directions to fill the joints completely. Any remaining sand can be swept off later.
Jointing sand can offer a permanent alternative to ordinary sand. This substance contains additives that form a solid bond after being exposed to moisture.
Vacuum up any stubborn sand that collects where it's not supposed to, or use a leaf blower to blast it out into the far reaches of the yard.
20. **Install edging, if desired.** If you want your patio to have a neat and uniform edge, you can install paver edging. Choose from plastic, concrete, metal, or wood. Position the edging along the perimeter of the patio pavers. Secure it with galvanized spikes per the paver manufacturer’s guidelines.
21. **Hose down the entire patio.** A good spray will help the pavers settle and pack the underlying substrate down tight. Just make sure you don't oversaturate the area, or you could end up with a swamp instead of a relaxing outdoor lounge. Once the water has had time to dry, you can replace your furniture and kick back!
Wet the patio every hour for the first 3 hours to accelerate the compacting process.
22. **Seal the patio once it’s dried.** To keep the sand in the joints and protect your new pavers, you should apply a sealer to the patio once it is completely dry. Use a 4-inch (10-cm) brush to apply sealer to the outsider perimeter of the patio. Then use a garden-style pump to spray sealant over the rest of the patio. Allow it to dry completely, then repeat the process to apply a second coat.
Paver patio sealer can be found at home improvement stores. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Paver-Patio", "language": "en"} |
How to Replace RV Flooring | Travelling in an RV is a great way to explore new places while riding in comfort, but sometimes changes in climate can cause the flooring in your RV to crack, warp, or rot. Fortunately, you can replace the flooring in your RV with just a few tools and a little hard work! Before you start tearing out your existing flooring, you’ll need to remove any trim, take out any furniture that’s in the way, and set up your safety gear. Then, you can remove the floor and replace it with new materials. Your RV will be looking great in no time!
1. **Measure the square footage** Use a tape measure to take measurements of the floor layout. You may want to note the measurements on a sketch of the RV. Take the drawing with you when you’re shopping for your floors so you can picture the layout as you shop.
2. **Take out the furniture if you need to.** You may not have to remove the furniture in your RV for your floor replacement. However, if you have to replace the subfloor, or if you want you new flooring to extend underneath the couch or table, you'll need to take the furniture out.
Unless the subfloor is damaged, the choice of whether to install new flooring under your furniture is largely aesthetic.
Furniture in an RV is often bolted down, so you will probably need a wrench in order to remove it.
3. **Remove any trim** Use a crowbar to pry the trim loose. If the trim appears to be in good shape, remove it carefully and keep it so you can replace it after you install your new flooring. If it’s molded, warped, or otherwise damaged, throw it out and buy new trim.
4. **Gather your safety materials.** If you have to do any cutting with a saw, you’ll need to have safety goggles and a face mask nearby. You may also want heavy leather or canvas gloves to protect your hands while you’re working. It’s a good idea to have these on hand before you start your project just in case you need them.
Open the windows and doors to ventilate the space as well.
5. **Use pliers to remove the staples holding the carpet in place.** Removing carpet in an RV is time-consuming because of the many staples you’ll have to pry up. Grip each staple with your pliers, then rock the pliers back and forth until the staple comes free.
Some people prefer to use a hammer and mallet for removing staples. Hook the claw of the hammer under the staple, then strike the hammer with the mallet to loosen the staple.
6. **Examine the subfloor after you remove the old carpet.** Check the plywood subfloor for dark spots, soft areas, or cracks. If you notice any damage, use a skill saw to carefully cut outside of the area you need to remove. Repair the damaged area by nailing new marine plywood into the joists beneath the subfloor.
Marine plywood is made to withstand temperature fluctuations as well as moisture, making it ideal for a travelling vehicle.
Always wear safety goggles and a face mask when working with a skill saw.
7. **Check the remnants section at a local store when you buy new carpet.** Many carpeting stores have a collection of oddly-sized cuts left over from larger jobs. Since you won’t need much carpet to cover your RV, you can save a lot of money if you can find a remnant that’s the right size.
Remnants aren’t usually left out on the sales floor, so ask an associate if they can show you where they are.
8. **Sweep your subfloor before you start the installation.** No matter how careful you are when you pry up the staples, chances are you’ll miss a couple. Sweep the plywood carefully to make sure there are no staples that can work their way up through the carpet after you install it.
9. **Attach your carpet to the subfloor permanently with staples.** Start working in 1 corner of the RV, using a staple gun to staple the carpet down every 4 inches (10 cm). Pull the carpet as taut as possible as you work your way to the other side of the room to ensure that your carpet is free of any wrinkles after installation.
10. **Anchor your carpet with furniture if you don’t want to staple it.** Some RV owners prefer not to staple their carpet to the subfloor because they want to be able to remove the carpet regularly in order to clean it. This is a good option if you have pets that will be travelling with you.
11. **Hide gaps between the carpet and the wall with trim.** Since the flooring is usually installed before the walls in an RV, there is usually a slight gap between the floor and the wall. You can hide this gap by installing the trim you removed earlier, or you can purchase new trim if you prefer.
Take care when you nail the trim into place to ensure you don’t nail through the exterior of the RV.
12. **Reinstall any furniture you removed.** Once your new flooring is installed and the trim is in place, it's time to replace your furniture. Tighten any bolts firmly with a wrench so the furniture will be steady when the RV is moving.
13. **Use a crowbar or a flathead screwdriver to pry up stick-on tiles.** Vinyl stick-on tiles are usually easy to remove. Just wedge a small crowbar or a flathead screwdriver under the tile, then pop it upwards to loosen the adhesive.
14. **Look for damage on the subfloor and repair it if necessary.** New vinyl tile can often be laid over an existing floor. However, removing the tile that is already in place will allow you to check the health of the subfloor.
If you find mold or rot in your subfloor, you will need to use a skill saw to cut out the damaged area. You can then replace the damaged subfloor with a new sheet of marine plywood cut to fit.
Always use caution when operating a skill saw. Wear protective glasses and a face mask to protect yourself from flying debris.
15. **Opt for peel and stick vinyl tile for easy installation.** Stick-on vinyl tile is available in a wide range of thicknesses and designs, with options for every price range. This is a great option for a durable floor that doesn’t require a lot of work to install.
16. **Sweep or vacuum the subfloor before you install your new tile.** If your subfloor is dirty, the stick-on vinyl tile will not adhere properly. Make sure the entire subfloor is free of dirt, dust, or other debris before you start the installation process.
If the subfloor seems greasy, slimy, or stained, wash it thoroughly with soap and water, then let it dry completely before you install your tile.
17. **Start in the middle of the room and work outward to the edges.** When laying square tiles, you want to center them so that any oddly-sized cuts are around the outside of the room. Peel off the paper backing from each tile, then lay the tile in place and press down on it firmly to ensure it adheres to the subfloor properly.
Use a utility knife to cut any edge pieces to size when you reach the walls.
18. **Replace any trim** Nail the trim back into place, taking care not to puncture the exterior. For a fresh new look, try painting the trim a shade that will match your new vinyl tile.
When nailing the trim into place, use caution so you don't nail through the exterior of the RV.
19. **Install any furniture you removed.** If you took out your chairs, tables, or cabinets in order to replace your flooring, use a wrench to tightly bolt them back into place. The furniture must be completely secure so it doesn't move while the RV is travelling.
20. **Use a crowbar to remove existing plank flooring.** Laminate planks fit together in a tongue-and-groove formation, and they are usually not attached to the subfloor with adhesive or nails. As you pry up the planks, they should easily snap free of each other.
21. **Repair any damage to the subfloor, if necessary.** Climate changes and excessive humidity can cause the plywood subfloor in your RV to rot. If you notice any signs of damage, including black discoloration, soft spots, cracks, or warped wood, use a skill saw to cut away the affected area, then replace it with new plywood.
Marine plywood is ideal for use in an RV because it is resistant to changes in temperature and humidity.
22. **Start along the longest wall if you're installing new laminate planks.** If you’re using tongue-and-groove floor planks, using the longest pieces first will allow you to make fewer cuts. Each time you cut a plank, you lose a joint, so you will want to make as few cuts as possible.
23. **Lay the first plank with the female side facing outwards.** The female side of the plank will have a groove that goes inwards, while the male piece will have a piece that fits into the groove. Line up the male connector of the second piece with the female side of the first piece, then tap the second plank lightly with the mallet to lock it into place.
Continue this process down the wall.
24. **Use spacers with plank flooring to allow them to expand and contract.** Spacers will protect your floor from warping when your RV is exposed to dramatic temperature changes. Place at least 2 spacers along each wall as you install the floor.
Some plank flooring will come with spacers included, but if yours doesn’t, you can purchase them at a flooring supply store.
25. **Cut the remaining planks to length with a utility knife or jigsaw.** Most of your pieces should be easily cut with a utility knife. However, a jigsaw will offer more precision if you need to make more detailed cuts.
26. **Replace the trim you removed** Rounded trim will give your new flooring a finished look, and it will also help hide any gaps between the floor and the wall.
Use caution when nailing anything in an RV, since you can puncture the exterior.
27. **Replace any furniture you removed.** Tighten the furniture down with a wrench so it will be stable while the RV is moving, then relax in your renovated camper! | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Replace-RV-Flooring", "language": "en"} |
How to Stand up for Yourself | Standing up for yourself can be really challenging if you're used to letting others have their way or you're a people pleaser. When you trim yourself down to suit everyone else, it can all be too easy to whittle yourself away; learning to stand up for yourself is a way of ensuring other people respect you and don't try to push you around or manipulate you. Unlearning the old habits of self-effacement and gaining the confidence to stand up for yourself won't happen overnight, but the journey to improvement starts with the first step.
1. **Have confidence.** Developing a strong sense of self-confidence is the first step towards standing up for yourself. If you don't have any confidence or belief in yourself, how can you expect other people to?
It's easy for others to spot when someone is down on their luck and lacking in self-confidence -- which makes them an easy target. If you're confident, people will be less likely to tease you or identify you as weak.
Confidence has to come from within, so do whatever it takes to make you feel better about yourself. Learn a new skill, lose some weight, and repeat positive affirmations daily -- nothing will change overnight, but your confidence will grow in time.
2. **Set goals for yourself.** Goals give you a sense of purpose and control over your own destiny, and they help you realize what you truly want. This is an essential part of standing up for yourself and preventing others from walking all over you.
Motivate yourself by setting an ambitious but achievable goal over the next few weeks, months or years of your life. It could be anything -- a promotion at work, a top grade in your next college paper, or running a half-marathon -- as long as it's something that gives you a sense of self-worth.
When you finally achieve your goals, remember to take a moment to look back on how far you've come and appreciate how much you have achieved. Make a vow that you will never let yourself regress into the unfulfilled person you once were.
3. **Develop a good attitude.** Your attitude is everything -- it impacts how other people perceive you and even how you see yourself. Your attitude sets the tone of your voice, the quality of your thoughts, and is reflected in your facial expressions and body language.
Remember that attitude is infectious. If you're bubbly, happy, and bright about things, you'll encourage those around you to feel good about themselves and the world around them. If you're morose, pessimistic, and down about everything, you'll soon infect others with the same negativity.
We naturally prefer to be hanging around the person who makes us feel good about ourselves, and we're more inclined to listen and respond positively to someone who has a good attitude.
By the same token, we're more likely to dismiss a person who tries to play the shrinking violet, the victim, or the permanently oppressed. Make the choice to feel and have a positive attitude and you're on your way to standing up for yourself.
4. **Feel good about yourself physically.** While you don't need to look like an iron man or iron woman, your appearance does matter and looking fit, strong and healthy will give you greater confidence and help you to stand up for yourself.
Choose an activity that you enjoy doing -- whether it's weight training, running, dancing or rock climbing -- and throw yourself into it. Not only will you look and feel better physically, but you will also have a lot of fun and become a more interesting and fulfilled person in the process!
You should also consider starting a martial arts or self-defense class. The inner discipline taught will improve your confidence a great deal and the moves you'll learn to defend yourself will double your confidence and allow you to stand up for yourself should you ever find yourself in a physical fight.
5. **Be assertive.** Assertiveness is the key to standing up for yourself. It isn't just a cliché, it's a bona fide means for improving your chances of getting what you want and for being heard properly.
Being assertive enables you to express your wants, needs, and preferences in a way that shows you're prepared to stand up for yourself while still respecting the other person. It involves being open and honest about your thoughts and feelings while trying to work towards a mutually satisfying solution.
When asserting your feelings and opinions, it's recommended that you use "I" statements, rather than "you" statements, as this is less accusatory and will prevent the other person from going on the defensive. For example, instead of saying "you never ask for my opinion", say something like "I feel ignored when you make decisions without me".
Assertiveness is, for the main part, a learned skill, so don't feel bad if it doesn't come naturally. There are many excellent books and courses on assertiveness training available. You might like to start by reading the classic When I Say No, I Feel Guilty, by Manuel J Smith, and Your perfect right: A Guide to Assertive Living, by Robert E. Alberti. See also How to be assertive and Communicate in an Assertive Manner.
6. **Learn how to say no.** Learning how to say no is one of the hardest but most important ways of standing up for yourself. If you tend to be a "yes" person who never wants to let anyone down, you risk becoming a door-mat who everyone walks all over and takes advantage of.
For example, if your boss keeps asking you to work late when your co-worker has no problem skipping out the door at 6 pm, it can be very difficult to say no. But if this extra workload is putting your personal life and relationships under pressure, you need to put your foot down. Don't put someone else's needs above your own -- learn to say no when necessary.
Learning to say no will help you to stand up for yourself with friends as well as people who intimidate you. Think about that friend who keeps borrowing money but never pays it back; assertiveness will enable you to ask for that money back and to say no next time, all while maintaining your friendship.
People may be taken aback at first, but they will learn to accept your new-found determination and may even come to respect it.
7. **Recognize your body language.** The manner in which you stand, walk, and sit makes a big impression on people. Positive body language can be used to garner respect, agreement, and trust, while negative body language (slouching, trying to shrink away) is practically an invitation to being pushed about.
Using open body language shows people that you are self-assured, confident and not to be messed with. Open body language includes leaning forward, making eye contact, standing with your hands on your hips and feet apart, using slow and deliberate gestures, facing your heart to people when you meet them and uncrossing your arms or legs.
Closed body language, on the other hand, sends negative signals and could leave you open to attack. Closed body language includes crossing your arms, clenching your hands, using fast and evasive gestures, fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, and turning your body sideways.
8. **Practice standing up for yourself.** For many shy people, standing up for themselves is not something that comes naturally, but that's okay. All you need to do is practice -- soon you'll become more confident and more assertive about making your voice heard.
Sometimes you may fail to stand up for yourself simply because you cannot articulate what needs to be said at the right moment. Take the time to write out good responses to difficult situations and practice them with a friend using a timer.
Have your friend pretend to be a difficult or intimidating person who showers you with put-downs. Put on the timer for about 2 minutes and respond away! Keep doing this until you get the hang of it.
You can also practice standing up for yourself in small, everyday situations. For example, rather than quietly accepting the wrong coffee when the barista gets your order wrong, learn to say "excuse me, I asked for non-fat milk. Could you please make me another?" Soon you'll have the confidence to tackle bigger, more important issues!
9. **Stay away from negative people.** Another aspect of standing up for yourself is trusting your instincts about other people and learning to act on them. For example:
If another person is bringing you down with their negativity, don't hang around them; start to politely but firmly distance yourself. You don't owe difficult people any explanation as to why you're spending less time around them.
Avoid bullies, negative Nellies, and sarcastic Sams. You don't gain anything from being in their presence and you're not doing them any favors by putting up with their nonsense or rewarding them for bad behavior.
Remember -- keeping away from sources of discomfort and trouble is not running away; it is an important part of learning to stand up for yourself because it demonstrates that you won't let nonsense and nastiness impact your life.
10. **Defend yourself in a calm and reasonable manner.** Defend yourself verbally when attacked, provoked, or sidelined and take care of yourself when someone tries to put you down, box you in, or even hurt you physically.
Don't just stand there smoldering; it's far better to speak your mind. Even if the end result doesn't change, you've demonstrated to yourself and others that you won't stand for disrespect.
More often than not, a polite but firm clarification of the disrespectful comment or behavior will be enough to draw attention to the need for it to change, especially where there is an audience. For example: "Excuse me but I was next in line and I'm in just as much of a hurry as the person who pushed in."
Avoid whispering, mumbling, or speaking too quickly. The tone of your voice and the speed of your delivery are an important part of clarifying what you want and how confident you're feeling.
Naturally, the manner in which you defend yourself will depend on the situation and if someone is volatile, always put your safety first.
11. **Don't be aggressive.** You should never resort to outright aggression in the process of standing up for yourself. Being aggressive, or even violent, is counter-productive and will not win you any friends.
Acting aggressively -- verbally or otherwise -- is like acting out your pain in full technicolor. It's not a constructive way to get what you want and will simply turn people against you.
You are far more likely to achieve a positive result if you approach any issues as calmly and objectively as possible. You can still stand your ground and be firm and assertive without having to raise your voice or get angry.
12. **Avoid being passive aggressive.** Be wary of taking passive aggressive responses toward people and situations.
Passive aggressive responses are ones in which you begrudgingly do things against your will and end up filled with resentment and anger, hating people who "make" you feel this way, feeling depressed and helpless.
This negatively affects your relationships and can take a huge toll on your physical and emotional health. Most of all, a passive-aggressive approach to life will never enable you to stand up for yourself.
13. **Try to turn negatives into positives.** Another way of standing up for yourself is to take the negatives thrown at you and transform them into good things. In the process of turning attacks inside out to find the good, you'll often find that feelings of jealousy or insecurity are at the root of the attack. For example:
If someone claims you're bossy, rather than letting it cause you to shrink some more, take this as evidence that you're a natural leader, able to manage people and projects well, and a proactive change agent.
If someone claims you're shy, take it as a compliment that means you're not ready to jump on the latest bandwagon but like to reflect over the consequences first and then make up your mind.
If someone says you're too sensitive or emotional, let this be a sign that you've got a big heart and aren't afraid to let everyone see it.
Or maybe someone suggested you're not career-minded enough – for you, that confirms you're living a stress-free life that will help you to live longer.
14. **Don't give up.** No matter how hard you try to increase your confidence, there will be days when you feel that you're backsliding.
Rather than seeing this as a defeat in your attempt to learn to stand up for yourself, see it for what it is – a day or so where things went temporarily off-track before you feel better and bounce back. Some tricks to help the bounce-back process include:
Fake it till you make it. Even if you don't feel confident, act as if you do.
Be consistent in your approach. People will grow to expect that the person you are now is a person who stands up for himself.
Expect some people to find your more assertive stance challenging. It can take time to reshape the patterns you've formerly established with people who used to walk all over you. In some cases, you'll find you no longer want to be a part of their lives; take it as it comes. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stand-up-for-Yourself", "language": "en"} |
How to Run a Fishing Tournament | A fishing tournament is a great way to connect with local anglers and have a bit of friendly competition. To organize one, start by getting a permit and setting clear rules for the participants. Advertise the tournament, register participants, and gather any equipment and volunteers you’ll need. On the day of the tournament, oversee the check-in process and make sure the anglers are following the rules and fishing fairly. With proper planning, you can set up a great day out that will create lasting memories for everyone involved!
1. **Choose a date and time for the tournament.** Select a weekend when good weather is forecasted. You’ll also need to decide on the length of the tournament. It can be a few hours during a single day or span the course of the entire weekend. If the tournament will span 2 or more days, it’s best to provide lodging and meals and charge a more expensive entry fee for participants.
Make sure to plan this tournament a few months in advance to give people time to clear their schedule and RSVP.
2. **Select a location and obtain a permit, if necessary.** Depending on where you live and what body of water you choose for the tournament, you may need a permit from the Fish and Game Department. Find out the regulations for your region and be sure to get permission and a permit if you need one. Otherwise, you could face hefty fines for hosting the tournament, especially if money is exchanged.
3. **Establish rules for the participants.** Make it clear that each participant must have a valid fishing license. Decide whether the participants will fly fish or bait fish and what species they’ll fish for. You can select one species or a few, depending on your preference and location. Then, determine what kind of rod, reels, flies, and baits will be allowed and whether participants can or must fish from a boat or from shore. Decide if people can fish in teams or if they need to fish individually.
You also need to determine how many participants you’ll allow and if there will be an age restriction.
4. **Figure out how you’ll determine the winner.** You have a few different options here. Some tournaments reward anglers for catching the biggest fish of the day. You can award prizes for the 3 biggest entries. Other competitions measure success by the number of fish caught or the total weight of the daily catch.
A “biggest catch” competition would be easy to judge, as it would only require a quick weigh-in at the end of the day.
5. **Recruit volunteers or hire people to help run the tournament.** Ask friends and family members if they’re willing to help you organize and host the tournament. Alternatively, hire people to help check in participants, make announcements, oversee the tournament, weigh and/or measure fish, distribute prizes, and so on.
For a 2-day tournament, you might need to hire a chef to prepare meals. It’s also a good idea to have a medic on standby in case of emergencies.
6. **Gather any equipment you’ll need.** You’ll likely need tables and chairs for the check-in station, a PA system to make announcements, scales, measuring boards, a boat, and safety and first aid gear. If you’re hosting the anglers overnight, be sure to provide suitable lodging. Let the participants know ahead of time if you’ll provide cabins or tents and if they need to bring their own sleeping bags, pillows, etc.
7. **Set an entry fee.** The fee should cover all the expenses you have as well as the prize for the winner, which can be cash or desirable fishing gear. Start by figuring out how much it will cost you to run the tournament. Factor in the cost of the permit, the prizes, any equipment you need, any personnel you need to hire, and lodging and food, if that will be provided.
If you’re hosting the tournament as a fundraiser, set a realistic goal for how much money you want to raise and add that your expenses to help determine the entry fee.
For a 1-day fishing tournament, a $50 entry fee might work well. If the tournament lasts several days and you’ll be providing food and lodging, $300 might be a better number.
8. **Set up a way for participants to register.** It might be easiest to create an online registration form that allows participants to enter their information and pay the fee by credit card or a third-party site (like PayPal). There are plenty of online sites that will allow you to do this for free, so do some research and find the one that works best for you.
Set up the form so that the participants must read all the rules and parameters before registering.
Create a separate bank account to deposit the entry fees into.
9. **Advertise the tournament.** Create posts on social media and classified sites to drum up participants. Also, flyers to distribute around town and to local fishing clubs. Be sure to include all the pertinent details in each ad, including the time, date, location, and entry fee for the tournament. Include details about the tournament format as well.
10. **Go over the rules when participants check in.** Assign someone to check in each angler and ensure they have paid the fee. Don’t assume that everyone is familiar with (or remembers) the regulations. As participants check in, remind them about the format, time limit, and other parameters.
11. **Make sure the anglers are fishing safely.** Spend your time out on the water. Try to meet each participant over the course of the day or weekend. Do a quick inspection of their gear and make sure they’re following the rules you’ve set. Be prepared to answer questions and handle issues as they arise.
Give updates to volunteers and participants as the tournament progresses.
12. **Oversee the process of weighing or counting the fish.** As the tournament organizer, your primary responsibility is to make sure the competition is run fairly. At the end of the tournament, conduct the weighing or counting yourself, or oversee whoever is in charge of it, so that you can attest to the legitimacy of the process.
13. **Hand out prizes to the winner(s).** Once all the measuring and counting is done, it’s time to award prizes! Use the PA system to announce the winner(s) and pass out the cash or prizes.
If the tournament was a success, consider making it an annual event! | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Run-a-Fishing-Tournament", "language": "en"} |
How to Ease Shoulder Pain | Shoulder muscles can become inflamed and sore for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s from repetitive use or traumatic contact, shoulder pain usually wears off after a few days. Fortunately, there are a variety of home-care techniques and stretches that can be used to ease shoulder pain. In more severe cases, a doctor can also provide you with medication and other treatment options for your shoulder pain.
1. **Rest the shoulder for 24-48 hours after you first injure it.** Strained and tensed muscles need rest to recover and repair damaged tissues. Avoid overexerting yourself or putting any unnecessary stress on your shoulder muscles for the first day or 2.
For example, avoid lifting heavy objects or using repetitive movements (e.g., a hammering motion) while resting. This will help to reduce inflammation in your injured shoulder.
Note that excessive rest is not advisable, since mobilization of the joints and muscles is important to promote good blood circulation. Avoid resting for more than 48 hours straight.
2. **Keep the shoulder elevated for the first 48 hours to reduce inflammation.** Use several pillows or a cushion behind your upper back to prop up your injured shoulder. Elevation helps with inflammation, as the effects of gravity help to pull down excessive fluid and blood that are lodged in a certain area, thus promoting proper circulation.
If you’re lying in bed, elevate your back at a 45-degree angle for the most comfort.
3. **Apply cold packs to the affected shoulder during the first 24 to 48 hours.** Apply the cold pack for 15-20 minutes at a time, repeating this process about 3-4 times each day. Wrap the cold pack in a towel or cloth before applying it to your shoulder.
Cold temperatures cause the blood vessels to narrow, which can help to control muscle inflammation in the shoulder. By minimizing inflammation, further damage to the shoulder can be prevented.
Note that cold packs are usually only beneficial for the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury.
4. **Use heat packs on the affected shoulder after 48 hours have passed.** After applying cold packs for the first 24 to 48 hours, the next step is to apply warm packs to promote muscle relaxation. Apply the warm pack for 15-20 minutes at a time and repeat the application 3-4 times each day as needed.
Warm temperatures help to dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation to the shoulder, minimizing inflammation and damage.
Be careful that the warm packs are not too hot, otherwise they can burn your skin.
5. **Massage the shoulder** Using your fingers, apply minimal to moderate pressure on the affected muscle and move your fingers in a circular motion. If your injury is in a location that’s hard to reach, have a friend or family member massage the muscle for you.
If you can’t have someone massage the shoulder for you, place a tennis ball inside a sock and push the ball up against a wall with your shoulder muscle. Then, move up and down while pressing the ball against the wall to massage your muscle.
Massage can be performed several times daily or as needed. You can also seek the services of a professional massage therapist to treat your shoulder pain.
6. **Pull your arm across your chest to easily stretch your shoulder.** Hold your arm out in front of you and place the opposite hand under your elbow. Then, pull your arm towards the opposite shoulder, bringing it across your chest. Hold this position for 30-60 seconds, then relax your arm.
Repeat this stretch 3-5 times for each affected shoulder.
Note that you can perform this stretch either standing or sitting down.
7. **Do a seated chest stretch to stretch your chest and shoulders at once.** In a seated position, clasp your hands together behind you, interlocking your fingers and turning your palms towards you. Gently lift your hands towards the ceiling as far as you can. Hold this position for about 20 seconds, then relax.
Repeat this exercise 2-4 times as needed.
This is a very effective way of stretching both shoulders instead of just one.
8. **Perform a triceps stretch to stretch your upper arm and your shoulder.** Place your hand on your affected shoulder and clasp your elbow with the opposite hand. Then, keeping your shoulders down, apply minimal pressure to your elbow to lift it toward the ceiling. Hold this position for 20 seconds, then relax.
Repeat this stretch 2-4 times for the affected shoulder.
9. **Take NSAIDs for fast pain relief and to reduce inflammation.** Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be purchased over-the-counter and can be taken to alleviate pain and inflammation of certain muscles. Some of the most commonly used painkillers are as follows:
Ibuprofen (Advil)
Aspirin
Naproxen
10. **Visit a doctor as soon as possible for severe or chronic pain.** If the pain isn’t that intense, but doesn’t dissipate after 2-3 days, you should see a doctor for a professional diagnosis. Your doctor will be able to tell you what exactly is causing your shoulder pain and what you need to do to alleviate it.
If you experience severe pain and inflammation of your shoulder or you are unable to move your shoulder, go to the nearest hospital, as the radiating pain may be a sign of an impending heart attack.
Note that your best bet is to always get a professional diagnosis from a doctor before embarking on any treatment regimen.
11. **Take any medications your doctor prescribes to treat inflammation.** In cases of severe pain and inflammation, your doctor may prescribe you a corticosteroid or some other medication to treat your shoulder. Be sure to follow the exact dosage instructions that your doctor gives you to ensure your injury is properly treated.
The most common corticosteroid prescribed by doctors is prednisone, which is usually prescribed to treat mild to moderate forms of inflammation.
12. **Talk to your doctor about getting a cortisone injection.** Cortisone is another type of steroid which manages inflammation. This step is not usually required, so you should only ask your doctor about it if your shoulder pain doesn’t respond to less drastic treatment.
A cortisone injection is injected by your doctor into the inflamed area - in this case, your shoulder. When inflammation is diminished, pain is also reduced.
13. **Ask your doctor if your shoulder will require surgery.** If your pain is severe and doesn’t respond to other forms of treatment, it may stem from an injury that will require surgery in order to be completely healed. Note that this is not required in the majority of shoulder injuries and should only be necessary if your injury was caused by severe trauma.
For example, if your shoulder was severely injured as a result of a car accident, it may require surgery to be fixed. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Ease-Shoulder-Pain", "language": "en"} |
How to Learn Tamil | Tamil is a member of the Dravidian language family, a group of languages spoken throughout India and southeast Asia, as well as countries such as Pakistan and Nepal. Tamil is mainly spoken in southern India and is an official language in the Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Tamil is also an official language of Sri Lanka and Singapore, and is widely used in Malaysia. There are about 65 million Tamil speakers worldwide. Tamil has been spoken for over 2,500 years and has a long, rich literary tradition of poetry and philosophy. Learning Tamil can open up a whole world of possibility!
1. **Become familiar with the Tamil script.** The Tamil script has 12 vowels, 18 consonants, and one character known as an āytam that is neither a consonant nor a vowel. However, because the Tamil script is syllabic rather than alphabetic -- meaning symbols represent phonetic units including consonants and vowels -- it comprises a total of 247 phonetic combinations. Many of these are written by adding diacritical marks to the basic 31 letters to indicate changes.
Tamil is written from left to right in horizontal lines, just like English.
A chart of the basic Tamil script is available here: http://tamilo.com/Learn_Tamil/alphabet.pdf.
2. **Study the Tamil vowels.** The Tamil script has 12 vowels, which are written as independent letters when they appear at the beginning of a syllable. They alter their form depending on whether they are paired with a consonant and whether they are short or long vowels. (Long vowels are held about twice as long as short vowels.) In some cases, diacritic marks are added to the end of the consonants to represent vowels, but in others, marks are added to other locations.
அ a and ஆ aa
Similar to many other South Asian scripts, Tamil consonants carry the inherent அ a sound, so அ a does not change when added to a consonant.
When ஆ aa is added to a consonant, a diacritic mark representing it is added to the end of the consonant, as in கா kaa.
இ i and ஈ ii
When இ i is added to a consonant, a diacritic mark representing it is added to the end of the consonant, as in கி ki.
When ஈ ii is added to a consonant, a diacritic mark representing it is added to the top of the consonant, as in கீ kii.
உ u and ஊ uu
When உ u is added to a consonant, a diacritic mark representing it is added to the bottom of the consonant, as in கு ku.
When ஊ uu is added to a consonant, a diacritic mark representing it is added to the end of the consonant, as in கூ kuu.
எ e and ஏ ee
When எ e is added to a consonant, a modified form is placed in front of the consonant, as in கெ ke.
When ஏ ee is added to a consonant, a diacritic mark representing it is placed in front of the consonant, as in கே kee.
ஐ ai
When ஐ ai is added to a consonant, a modified form is placed in front of the consonant, as in கை kai.
ஒ o and ஓ oo
When ஒ o is added to a consonant, the diacritic marks for e and aa are placed surrounding the consonant, as in கொ ko.
When ஓ oo is added to a consonant, the diacritic marks for ee and aa are placed surrounding the consonant, as in கோ koo.
ஔ au
When ஔ au is added to a consonant, the diacritic mark for e is placed at the beginning of the consonant and another diacritic mark is placed at the end, as in கௌ kau.
There are some non-standard consonant-vowel combinations in Tamil that don’t follow these rules. A complete list of these exceptions is available here: http://www.omniglot.com/writing/tamil.htm.
3. **Study the Tamil consonants.** Tamil has 18 basic consonants that are divided into three groups: vallinam (hard consonants), mellinam (soft consonants and nasals), and idayinam (medium consonants). Some consonants in Tamil don’t have direct equivalents in English, so it’s important to listen to them pronounced if possible.
Vallinam consonants: க் k, ச் ch, ட் t, த் th, ப் p, ற் tr
Mellinam consonants: ங் ng, ஞ் ng , ண் n, ந் n, ம் m, ன் n
Idaiyinam consonants: ய் y, ர் r, ல் l, வ் v, ழ் l, ள் l
There are also several borrowed consonants from Sanskrit, which are usually referred to as “Grantha” letters after the original script used to write Tamil. These sounds are often found in modern spoken Tamil, but less so in classical written Tamil. These letters are:
ஜ் j
ஷ் sh
ஸ் s
ஹ் h
க்ஷ் ksh
ஸ்ரீ srii
Finally, there is a special letter, ஃ akh, called an āytam. It is usually used in modern Tamil to indicate foreign sounds, such as f and z.
4. **Listen to a recording of the Tamil vowels and consonants.** The University of Pennsylvania has a website with audio recordings of all the Tamil vowel and consonant sounds. If you can find a native Tamil speaker to help you by saying these sounds with you, that’s even better.
Check out forums, websites, and social media accounts dedicated to learning the language.
5. **Find some foundational materials to start your lessons.** There are several online resources that can help you as you begin to learn Tamil. You’ll also want to find a good dictionary. The Oxford English-Tamil Dictionary, published by the India branch of the Oxford University Press, is considered the standard dictionary for Tamil learners and has over 50,000 entries. The University of Chicago also has an extensive free online Tamil dictionary through its Digital Dictionaries of South Asia project.
The University of Pennsylvania has a set of 36 lessons on Tamil grammar and sentence construction.
The University of Texas at Austin has a set of lessons on Tamil language and culture.
The Central Institute of Indian Languages has online lessons in Tamil script, grammar, and sentence structure. Sample lessons are free, and full access to the course is $50USD or 500Rs.
Polymath has an extensive set of lessons on the Tamil language, including a wide list of vocabulary words and lessons on pronouns, verb tenses, and common questions.
Language Reef has a set of 14 simple Tamil lessons.
Once you get more advanced, the University of Michigan has 11 free lessons in Intermediate Tamil, including audio files to accompany each lesson.
The government of Tamil Nadu has a “Virtual Academy” that includes games, a library of Tamil sources, and lessons. Much of the content is free, although some is also available for purchase.
6. **Obtain a good book or two.** The standard text is A Reference Grammar of Spoken Tamil by Harold F. Schiffman, Professor Emeritus of Dravidian Linguistics and Culture at the University of Pennsylvania. If you want to speak Tamil, this is the book to purchase, as spoken Tamil is very different from written Tamil, which has remained largely the same since the 13th century.
Kausalya Hart’s Tamil for Beginners is currently out of print but widely available in used bookstores.
E. Annamalai and R.E. Asher’s Colloquial Tamil: The Complete Course for Beginners focuses exclusively on spoken Tamil and includes audio for its lessons. It can go a bit fast for beginners but is widely recommended.
The University of Pennsylvania has published a Tamil Language in Context book, which includes a DVD with videos of filmed dialogue by native Tamil speakers.
The Tamil Nadu government has a basic e-book for free download that introduces the Tamil script and the basics of grammar.
7. **Understand basic sentence construction.** Tamil is an inflected language, meaning that words are altered by using prefixes or suffixes to show their person, number, mood, tense, and voice. Tamil sentences may not always have subjects, verbs, and objects, but if these elements are present, the most common sentence order is subject-object-verb or object-subject-verb.
In Tamil, you can make simple sentences by putting two nouns or noun phrases together -- you don’t even need to use a verb! In this case, the first noun acts as the subject and the second is the predicate (or the part that states something about the subject and acts as a verb).
For example, you could say அங்கவை Angavai பல் வைத்தியர் pal vaiththiyar to say “Angavai is a dentist”. To negate this type of sentence, add the word இல்லை illai “not” to the end of the sentence.
Imperative sentences in Tamil are commonly used to make requests as well as give commands. There are two ways to do this: the informal or intimate way, and the formal or polite way. Your social context will help determine which form is appropriate; for example, never use the informal mode with your elders, public figures, or other individuals who are commonly given public respect.
The informal/intimate mode just uses the root form of a verb without inflection. For example, பார் Paar means “See” (singular). Use this mode with close friends and children; it is not commonly used in polite conversation with people you don’t know well unless you want to insult them.
The formal/polite mode adds the plural inflection to the root form of the verb. For example, பாருங்கள் paarunkal is the plural form of paar, bt would be used in polite or formal address even if you were only talking to one person.
If you want to be especially polite, you can add the question word ஏன் een “why” to the polite imperative form. For example, பாருங்களேன் paarunkaleen means “Why don’t you see/look at?” or “Would you look at ___?”
8. **Begin with simple words.** Tamil is an ancient and complex language, so it’s unlikely you’ll be able to dive in headfirst and begin speaking in fluent sentences immediately. Learning some common vocabulary words can help you communicate with others even if you’re not completely familiar with Tamil grammar.
Make flashcards of common words and phrases and study them in chunks of 20-50.
Being able to ask for new foods is one of the most enjoyable reasons to learn a new language when you travel. Common Tamil foods include சோறு choru(rice), சாம்பார் sambar (a lentil stew), ரசம் rasam (a soup made with tamarind), தயிர் tayir (yogurt or curd) and வடை vada (savory fritters). You might see சாம்பார் சாதம் caampaar caatam (curry rice) or மீன் குழம்பு miin kulampu (fish curry), a famous dish in the south regions of India. ஒபுட்டு Oputtu is a sweet, almost pizza-like dish made with coconut.Check whether the dish is காரம் kaaram “spicy” before you order! If you’d like coffee, a signature beverage in Tamil Nadu, you would ask for காபி kaapi. You can also ask for தேநீர் teeniir (tea). Your server might say மகிழ்ந்து உண்ணுங்கள் Magizhnthu unnungal, “Have a nice meal.”
Bargaining or haggling is a common practice in Indian culture. If you are interested in buying something, begin by offering பாதி விலை paati vilai, or “half price.” Then, both you and the seller will work to arrange a satisfactory price. You will probably want to find things மலிவானது malivaanatu “cheap”, whereas the seller will try to push you toward something more விலை அதிகமானது vilai atikamaanatu “expensive”. You may also want to check whether the shop accepts கடன் அட்டை katan attai “credit card” or only பணம் panam “cash.”
If you’re feeling unwell, these words could help: மருத்துவர் maruttuvar “doctor”, மருத்துவ ஊர்தி maruttuvuurti “ambulance”,
9. **Learn how to ask questions.** In Tamil, a question can be formed by using a question word at the end of sentence. You should be aware the the stress placed on the question words can affect the meaning. The common question words include என்ன enna “what”, எது edu “which (thing)”, எங்கே engkee “where”, யார் yaar "who” and எப்பொழுது/எப்போது eppozhutu/eppoodu “when.”
For example, you could say உங்கள் பெயர் என்ன? Unga peru enna?, which means “What is your name?” The appropriate response is என் பெயர் En peyar ___ “My name is ____.”
The “interrogative marker” ஆ is placed at the end of a noun or sentence to make it a yes/no question. For example, for the noun பையனா Paiyaṉaa “boy”, placing ஆ at the end will turn it into the question “Is he a boy?”
Other common questions you might want to learn include எனக்கு உதவி செய்வீங்களா? Enakku udhavi seivienkalaa? “Can you help me?” புதிய என்ன? Putiya eṉṉa? “What’s new?”நீங்கள் எப்படி இருக்கிறீர்கள்? Niinkal eppati irukkiriirkal? “How are you?” இது என்ன? Itu enna? “What is this?”
Practice answering open-ended questions, as well. Try speaking for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
10. **Learn a few common phrases.** You may want to learn some common phrases to help you start conversations in Tamil. A good place to start might be தமிழ் பேச முடியுமா? Tamiḻ peeca muṭiyumaa? “Can you speak Tamil?” and நான் தமிழ் கற்றல் Naan tamil karral “I’m learning Tamil.”
You could also learn காலை வணக்கம் Kaalai vanakkam “Good morning!” and நல்ல இரவு Nalla iravu “Good night!”
அது எவ்வளவு செலவாகும்? Atu evvalavu celavaakum? “How much does it cost?” would be good to know when shopping. நன்றி Nanri “Thanks!” and வரவேற்கிறேன்! Varaveerkireen “You’re welcome!” and மன்னிக்கணும் Mannikkanum “Excuse me” or “Sorry” are also always helpful.
நான் நோய்வாய்ப்பட்டவாறு உணருகிறேன் Naan nooyvaayppattavaaru unarukireen means “I feel sick.” You can ask where the closest pharmacy is by asking மருந்துக் கடை அருகில் எங்கு உள்ளது? Maruntuk katai arukil enku ullatu?
If you want to drink a toast to a friend, you could say நல் ஆரோக்கியம் பெருக Nal aarokkiyam peruga, which loosely means “I hope your good health accumulates!”
If things get too complicated, you might want to learn புரியவில்லை Puriyavilai (m) or புரியல Purila (f), “I don’t understand”. மெதுவாக பேசுங்கள் Medhuvaaga pesungal (m) or மெதுவா பேசுங்க Medhuvaa pesunga (f) means, “Please speak more slowly.” You can also ask அதை ____ தமிழில் எப்படி சொல்லுவீர்கள்? Adhai ____ thamizhil eppadi solluveergal? “How do you say ____ in Tamil?”
காப்பாத்துங்க! Kaappathunga means “Help!”
11. **Check if there are classes available in your area.** Many universities, especially those that include a focus on South Asian Studies, offer classes in Tamil. These may be open to the community. If you live in an area with a lot of South Asian and Indian people, chances are that there are probably community language classes available.
Look for an online language tutor if you can't find in-person classes in your area.
12. **Read widely in Tamil.** Read online blogs and newspapers to help you learn the most common vocabulary in Tamil. Children's books are also an excellent place to start, as they're geared toward an audience who is still learning the language and often use pictures and other education aids.
The Tamil Nadu government Department of Education maintains a website with several free textbooks for download; these are used in elementary school through high school in Tamil Nadu public schools.
TamilCube also has a large collection of stories in Tamil available for free.
13. **Listen to spoken Tamil.** Find YouTube videos, movies in Tamil, popular music and songs, and listen to as much spoken Tamil as you can. It's even better if you can practice with a friend who speaks the language.
Omniglot has some samples of recorded Tamil text.
Spoken Tamil's website also includes a lot of lessons and audio recordings.
14. **Find someone to chat with you.** Make friends with someone who speaks Tamil and ask them to talk with you. You can ask them to teach you words and check your dictionary against them. They can even teach you grammar and culture!
15. **Watch Tamil films with English subtitles.** Although movies in Tamil are not as abundant as movies in Hindi (the product of the Indian film industry known as “Bollywood”), there are still plenty of movies available! Check out Netflix, YouTube, and your local video store.
No matter what your taste, there’s probably a Tamil film to satisfy it: Poriyaalan is an action thriller, Appuchi Gramam is a sci-fi disaster epic, Burma is a comedy-noir about car heists, and Thegidi is a romance.
16. **Join (or start) a language group.** Ideally, you can find a local group on the internet or a local message board. If there isn’t a Tamil group in your area, set one up! A conversation group will help you meet others who are interested in studying Tamil and learning more about the culture.
Meetup.com is a common place to set up and find language groups, but you can also contact your local university or college, as they may have more resources.
17. **Visit a cultural center.** In larger cities, there are often Tamil cultural centers established to serve the local Tamil population. However, even in smaller towns there are often Indian cultural centers and events, so you might still be able to find someone who knows Tamil and is willing to share their knowledge with you. You’ll also learn a lot about their culture and customs.
18. **Travel to a country where they speak Tamil.** The best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in an environment where people speak that language. Once you’ve mastered the basics of Tamil, explore the world! Tamil is spoken widely in India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Malaysia, as well as within substantial immigrant groups in Canada, Germany, South Africa, and Indonesia. Also try the state in South India called Tamilnadu. நல்ல அதிர்ஷ்டம் Nalla atirstam-- Good luck! | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-Tamil", "language": "en"} |
How to Have Fun While Studying | If you find studying boring and difficult, why not make it fun? From making your environment more conducive to improving your concentration, there are various ways to make studying more than just a boring task.
1. **Try interactive learning software.** You can use them to make things more interesting, turning study into gameplay. If you are not the tech type, you can have an older sibling/parent/guardian make a game for you.
2. **Use music** Put on some music that has catchy, relaxing tunes. Never use music or songs that have lyrics to them; they will divert your attention from and take your mind off of studying (unless you can zone out lyrics). Something in the electronic music genres such as pop or jazz is also great for this. If you do not like music, you can keep thinking about a favorite scene in a book or movie that you like.
3. **Keep snacks close.** Get together some healthy snacks to nibble on as you study. Allowing yourself a little nibble every now and then helps the study time to pass more pleasantly. Also, it is often effective if you use snacks as a form of treat for yourself every time you complete a part of the work. Don't have a huge bag of chips - try to have something simple such as an apple or banana. Vitamin B is great but an occasional treat is okay like hard candy is fine because you don't need attention about that. Something with a lot of B vitamins such as nuts are great for studying because B vitamins are great for brain fun hours, no matter what. Decorate your spot with favorite things like postcards, knick-knacks, figurines, notes from friends etc. Even temporary spaces can be decorated with bits and pieces you keep in a portable box. But, try not to make your study area too distracting. The less clutter in your study area, the better.
4. **Provide good lighting and a comfortable chair which is at the right height for the desk.** Nothing makes study more difficult than feeling uncomfortable as you sit and not being able to read the work properly. This is especially true in the winter months. It is also good to study near a window or natural light because that will have a bigger boost in energy than artificial light.
5. **Ensure adequate ventilation.** Nothing sends a person to sleep faster than lack of air. Get fresh air into your room regularly - even in winter! Make sure it circulates, even if this means using a fan in winter to blow around warm air; this is better than stale, stagnant air.
6. **Have good temperature levels.** Being too hot or too cold will make studying hard and you'll be tempted to crawl off to somewhere more comfortable. Turn the heating on or the cooling if you can. If you can't, then improvise and do what most students have always done to heat and cool: open or close windows & doors; use a red heat lamp at your feet (uses a lot less electricity); use a blanket; remove or put on extra layers; drink hot or cold drinks; put on a fan etc.
7. **Get cool or creative stationery and desk gear.** Your supplies can encourage you to study - a pen that feels just right in your hand, paper that is so soft the pen glides over it, a book stand that stops your book from slumping over, a row of colored highlighters begging to be used and a scented eraser that smells delicious. Think of the things that you enjoy having around you at study time and make these your little props for amusing yourself with during the study. Don't let them distract you from the study though!
8. **Schedule time slots for study and other times for play.** Don't make your study a never-ending process. Give it its time slot and devote yourself to it during this times and then reward yourself with the things you really feel like doing afterwards. Use the study time effectively, don't doodle, feel sorry for yourself or call up friends. That just stretches out the pain and increases your lack of interest. Assign the tasks to be done, do them and then forget about it and go and do the other stuff that you feel like doing. Also if you wanted to you could take a longer break and in the summer go start an ice cold lemonade stand and have friends help you enjoy yourself. Once it's time to come back in you can feel good and finish your studies while feeling good about your self.
People who take semi-frequent breaks are more productive than people who work hours and hours on end.
9. **Look at your study from a different perspective.** Maybe it's study in an area you really dislike or you just don't care about. Try to think outside the actual pages before you and put the topic into a wider perspective. Think of the sorts of careers people have using this study topic; think of how everyday problems are solved using the techniques that the study is requiring of you. This can help to enliven otherwise dull matter and can also impress a teacher if you show how this knowledge applies elsewhere in some way. It demonstrates application to the topic in spite of your reservations. And hopefully, it also helps to chase away the boredom of it.
10. **Realize that study is about more than the topic before you.** Sure, it might not grab you the same way that a basketball game outdoors would or a TV show you're missing because of the study. All the same, you're learning coping skills. You're learning how to prioritize, how to be patient and how to deal with something you don't like or feel disinterested in. Perhaps it doesn't feel like it at the time but these are some of life's most important skills because you'll come up against the temptation to fall into boredom many times - during work, a meeting, ceremonies, even parties! You're also learning about the general way the world works and where you might best slot into it yourself. How can you be sure you do or don't want to do things in life unless you know about them first?
11. **Get a pet to encourage you!** If you have a household friend, such as a cat or a fish, you can have them around you as you study. Purring cats provide a great source of rhythmical comfort that can ease the studying time and a fish swimming around and around can do wonders for reminding you that it's worth studying so that you can become a bigger fish in a sea of many. And some of you may be thinking wait a minute what about dogs... well dogs are great companions for studying if they are trained they should be quiet when you are hard at work and playful when you are ready for a break.
12. **Take breaks.** Frequent, short breaks are better for you and your thinking processes than infrequent, long breaks. Set an alarm on your computer or on a clock to go off every half hour and go for a stretch, get a coffee or milkshake, see what the weather's like outside. No matter how old you are, try to make your material into a game. It works so well. If you have a younger brother or sister, let them help you. Make up a song or a rap about your material. You would be surprised by how much it helps.
13. **If you are doing word problems in math, change the problem to make it more interesting or even a bit silly.** For example: Beth has 5 apples. If she goes to the apple orchard and picks 5 times the amount of apples she already has, but drops 3 on the way home how many apples she have now? Isn't that a boring problem? You can make it more interesting. For example: Mr. Gidget has 5 bubbles. He goes to the magical bubble island and his friend Mr. Gadget gives him 5 times the amount of bubbles he already has. If Mr. Gidget drops 3 of the bubbles into a pit filled with needles, how many bubbles does he have? Isn't that better? If you use funny names, objects you like, or made-up places, the problem is 10 times more interesting, making it more likely that you will solve it.
14. **If you like music, create a short song about the general points of what you're studying.** If you don't have time to make a song, search YouTube. Chances are is there will be some sort of relevant song. You might want to start with the Animaniacs (e.g., Nations of the World, Wakko's America, and Multiplication). If you are the creative type take a song and wipe out all the lyrics and put your study material in there and sing it to the tune of your chosen song. If you just sing their songs to yourself it can help you to ace that test! Be sure to print out the lyrics to the songs and make it a point to sing the song at least once a night so you'll remember it.
15. **Make flash cards.** The best site on the internet to make flashcards on is Quizlet. When making your flashcards, always do the term in capital letters and the definition in lowercase letters. Using different handwriting, colors, and decorating your flashcards will help you remember them. Be sure that you actually USE your flashcards. Just making them won't do anything for you at all.
16. **Go over your notes and draw pictures.** For example, If one of your notes is "Ohio produces more cheese than Wisconsin", draw some cheese and a picture of Ohio smiling and Wisconsin frowning. This works really well if you are a visual learner.
17. **Make an easy retrieval table.** Get a piece of large A4 paper and rule a table. Use bright color pencils, highlighters etc. and make a color order. For example,for history you could use neon green for dates, blue for the names of important people, and purple for what significant things they did.
18. **If you are reading your textbook, use funny accents or weird voices.** It is also good if you record yourself and listen to the recording at least once every night. This is helpful in literature and history textbook.
19. **Use mnemonic devices.** For example, the 5 great lakes = HOMES (Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior) However, make them creative so that you can easily remember them. A creative one for remembering the eight levels of classification is Dumb King Philip Came Over From Greece Sneezing (Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species) Or you could do, ing enery ied nexpectedly rinking hocolate ilk {Kilo, Hecto, Deca, Unit, Deci, Centi, Milli}
20. **Make small posters that you can hang up around your room or around your house.** Decorate them and draw pictures. On the night before the test or quiz, present and explain them to your family.
21. **If you need to study for a spelling test, eat alphabet cereal in the morning!** Have a parent or sibling read a word from your list to you. If you spell the word correctly with the cereal, you can eat it!
22. **Are you an IT/computer person?** If you work well with computers, you don't have to stick to handwriting your notes, which can take forever and it can be very mind-numbing. Go ahead and use the computer if you find it much easier to type. You could create a cool animation with a voice-over, a Prezi presentation, a multimedia PowerPoint slideshow with music, pictures and video. If you write your notes on a Word Document, personalize them by creating your own personal logo and using it as a letter-head - and that way nobody can steal your notes.
23. **Pretend you're a teacher and create a test or quiz that you can take yourself or make your older sibling(s) and/or parent(s) take.** Have a parent or older sibling that didn't take the test grade it. If you feel confident, you can grade it yourself.
24. **If you have to take a test on some boring book in English class, try replacing the characters in the story with characters from video games, TV shows, or characters from any other forms of media if you can.** This makes the material a LOT more interesting.
25. **Try a change of scenery.** Pack up your textbook, notes and binder and try heading to your local coffee shop or library. Bonus: someone there may be able to help you with your homework!
26. **Just try your best, don't overtax yourself and you'll do well.**
27. **The more fun, the more worthwhile!** Play math games online or play a writing game on paper!
28. **Try writing spelling words out 5 times.** This will help you memorize them quickly.
29. **If you have an older sibling at home, you can study together so you have company.** If you do not have one, you can ask your mom whether you may go over to your buddies house (that is in your class) and maybe play a studying game, but be sure to get the needed studying done.
30. **Talk out loud.** Everyone learns differently, and for some, talking out loud helps cement ideas into your head. Discuss sample test questions or homework problems with each other.
31. **Quiz each other.** Take turns asking each other questions, or quizzing each other on vocab words.
32. **Race against each other.** Set the timer and see who can finish filling in their worksheet/writing their notes the fastest. The slowest person loses. However, this method might not be the best method as it isn't always fair - some people would rather take their time.
33. **Invent crazy punishments to motivate you and your friends if you just can't be bothered studying.** For example the first person to leave without finishing their assignment isn't allowed to go to the upcoming school formal.
34. **You can create a scenario and make a short play or skit with a friend.** Pretend you're a character from TV or Broadway etc - or make up your own character. Physically turn your notes into a script and memorize your 'lines' by talking it out loud, over and over again. Then when you memorize the entire script, talk out loud as you would if you were your chosen character. You could even use funny accents if you like, you could even sing it Broadway-style. If you're really confident, you can perform the skit in front of friends, teachers, parents etc...and make them laugh! It helps if you are a tactile learner (you learn by touching) or a verbal learner (you learn by talking). It seems a bit crazy at first but when you think about it, it actually works, especially if you do it with a friend. By looking at it this way, it doesn't seem like boring study at all!
35. **Study in the same place quietly, and take a break every half hour or hour.** Do something fun, such as watch TV or play video games or a board game. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Have-Fun-While-Studying", "language": "en"} |
How to Install Upper Cabinets | Installing your own cabinets is easier than ever, but always measure out your wall space first to get the best fit. It’s also good idea to also have a friend help lift the cabinets while you fasten them to the wall. Screw the cabinets together to keep them snug and even. Then you can fill in gaps with filler strip to complete your room’s fresh, new look.
1. **Measure up from the floor to find where the cabinets will rest.** Hold a level on the ground and against the wall to find the floor’s highest point. Measure up the wall about 48 in (120 cm) or 19 ⁄2 in (50 cm) above a lower cabinet. Mark this spot with a pencil and draw a straight line through it all the way across the wall.
Use a ruler to trace any lines. You want to keep them as straight as possible since you’ll use them as references when hanging the cabinets.
When you’re finished tracing the line, you can use a level to check it.
2. **Outline where the 1st cabinet will hang.** Using a tape measure, note the dimensions of the cabinets. The line you drew earlier represents their bottom edge. Measure up from it to sketch the cabinet’s height. Then, use the ruler to make a 2nd straight line all the way across the wall so you can keep the cabinets level later.
When hanging multiple cabinets, always start with the corner cabinet if there is 1. Otherwise, start with the leftmost cabinet.
3. **Mark the stud locations on the wall.** The cabinets need to be screwed into the wood studs in the wall. The easiest way to find them is with a stud finder purchased from a home improvement store. Mark these spots in pencil so you know where to hang the cabinets.
Another way to find the studs is to knock on the wall. You’ll hear a lower, fuller sound when hitting a stud instead of empty space.
If you can’t find the studs, you can do it by drilling partway into the wall about every 16 in (41 cm). You’ll have to repair these spots with spackling or another substance before hanging the cabinets.
4. **Mark the length between studs on the cabinets’ backs.** First, measure the length between the studs, then transfer this onto the cabinets. The cabinets will have a thick support rail on the top and bottom. There should be 1 mark on each of both rails.
Some cabinets will have another one of these thick support rails in the middle that you should also mark.
5. **Hang a ledger board on the bottom line you traced.** At the home improvement store, pick up a 1 in × 4 in (2.5 cm × 10.2 cm) ledger board or wall cleat. Line the board’s top edge up with the bottom line you drew. Use 1 ⁄4 in (3.2 cm) drywall screws to secure it to the wall. This board ensures the cabinets are level upon installation.
If you have a friend who will hold the cabinets as you install them, you don’t need a ledger board.
Instead of a ledger board, you may also use a cabinet jack. Set the cabinet on the jack and raise the jack up so you can reach the cabinets while you work.
6. **Remove the doors from the cabinets.** Removing the doors, along with any shelving or other extra features, makes the cabinets a lot lighter. Be sure to label the parts with tape after unscrewing them so you can reinstall them properly later.
7. **Drill holes through the backs of the cabinets.** Find the stud measurements you marked on the back of the cabinets. Drill all the way through them, making holes about 2 in (5.1 cm) wide. Make sure the holes are about ⁄4 in (1.9 cm) from the cabinet’s edges.
8. **Screw the cabinet to the wall.** Start with the corner cabinet or leftmost cabinet if you’re not installing in a corner. Rest the bottom of the cabinet on the ledger board. Line it up with the studs, then fasten it in place with 3 in (7.6 cm) cabinet screws in each hole.
It’s best to leave the screws a little loose until you’ve finished shimming the cabinet.
9. **Shim the cabinet until it’s level.** Check over the cabinet for uneven spots. Slip shims behind the cabinet’s sides to raise them. Continue adding and adjusting these wooden strips until the cabinet is plumb.
Shims are small, wooden strips used for positioning. They’re sold in packs at home improvement stores.
You can test the cabinet with a level to make sure it looks perfect.
10. **Hang the second cabinet next to the first one.** Secure 2 cabinets to the wall before trying to fasten them. First, get the cabinet as close to the first one as possible. Repeat what you did before, screwing the cabinet to the studs and shimming it until it’s level.
11. **Pre-drill holes from 1 cabinet to the other.** Pick the cabinet where the screws will be least noticeable. The holes should be inside the cabinet on the front edge of the frame. Make sure you’re not drilling where the hinges lay. Drill a ⁄8 in (3.2 mm) hole below the top hinge, then another hole above the lower hinge.
Hold the cabinets together with a pair of clamps to ensure they stay level.
12. **Screw the cabinets together.** Slide a 2 ⁄2 in (6.4 cm) screw into each hole. Use a cordless screwdriver to secure the cabinets together. Remove the clamps and check that the cabinets appear level.
If the cabinets aren’t level, undo the screws. Adjust the shims as needed, then push the cabinets closer together before putting the screws back in place.
13. **Hang and secure the other cabinets together.** Repeat the process with any other cabinets you want to hang. Hang them next to the last cabinet, securing them to the wall first before screwing them together. Always add the connecting screws where they’re least noticeable.
14. **Cut a filler strip if there’s a gap between the cabinet and wall.** Spare filler strips or moulding can be purchased from a home improvement store. Lay masking tape over the strip, then pencil on the gap measurement either by using measuring tape or a scribing block. Cut the filler strip to size with a jigsaw.
Try to match the filler strip’s color and appearance to your cabinets. You may need to stain or paint it.
15. **Secure the strip to the cabinet with screws.** Drill a pair of ⁄8 in (3.2 mm) holes from the cabinet’s frame to the filler strip. Stick 2 ⁄2 in (6.4 cm) screws in the holes, then tighten them with a cordless screwdriver.
Filler strips are placed beside the leftmost or rightmost cabinets, between the wall and cabinet. Keep in mind that it will be visible, so make sure it matches your cabinets.
16. **Remove the ledger from the wall.** Make sure all the cabinets are tightly screwed to the wall first. Undo the screws in the ledger or wall cleat to remove it. The screws will leave holes that you’ll need to repair with spackling.
17. **Hang the doors on the cabinets.** Reattach the doors, shelving, and other features you removed earlier. Line the hinges up over the cabinet’s frame. Place the screws and tighten them to finish installing the cabinets. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Upper-Cabinets", "language": "en"} |
How to Learn English Faster | Learning a new language can be difficult, but it's not impossible. Learning any language can be broken up into four pieces: reading, writing, listening and speaking. If you want to learn English faster, get started with Step 1 below.
1. **Read, read, read.** One of the easiest things you can do to learn English faster is to read as much as you can. Read things all the time. This will make your vocabulary better and it will also help you learn grammar and slang.
Read comics. An easy option, if you don't want to read children's books, is to read comic books or comics instead. You can buy many English language comic books in bookstores and online, or you can read free comics online (these are usually called webcomics).
Read books you've read before. If you already know a little bit about what happens, then you will have an easier time guessing and understanding the words.
Read the newspaper. Newspapers are a good way to learn the basics of a language, because they usually have very good grammar and are written to be easy to understand. You can find online versions of many good English language newspapers, like the New York Times or The Guardian.
2. **Watch movies.** Watching movies will also help you improve your English, by helping you to hear what it sounds like and also helping you to learn new words. You can start watching with subtitles on, but you will learn more with the subtitles off. Once you have a basic vocabulary, try to keep the subtitles off and focus on listening for the words you do know and guessing the words you don't know from what is happening on the screen.
3. **Play MMO games.** MMOs are video games that you play online with other people. You can choose to play with people in English-speaking countries, which will give you the chance to talk with them and learn from them. Try playing Guild Wars, World of Warcraft, or The Elder Scrolls Online.
4. **Find an online pen-pal.** Pen-pals are people trying to learn your language that you write letters (or emails) to and they write back. You write half of your letter in your native language so that they can practice and half in English so that you can practice. You can talk about whatever you want! There are many websites that can help you find an online pen-pal.
5. **Make a friend.** You can also just make friends with English language speakers online and chat, email, and Skype together in order to practice your English. You can find online friends by joining fan communities or through language-learning communities like Fluentify.
6. **Sing songs.** Learning and singing songs is another good way to make your English better. This will help you learn the sounds of English (rhymes will help your pronunciation). It will also help improve your vocabulary. Find a song you like, learn it, and learn what the lyrics mean.
7. **Take a course.** English courses will help you learn the most important words and grammar and can help you make sure you're learning everything correctly. There are two main ways to take English language courses:
Take an online course. You can take courses online. Some of these cost money and some are free. The ones that cost money may be better than the free ones but not all the time! Good examples of online programs are LiveMocha and Duolingo.
Take a course in school. You can take a class from a local college or English language school. These cost money, but the help from the teacher will be very important and will help you learn faster than trying to learn on your own.
8. **Write in a journal.** This will force you to practice your writing and vocabulary. It will also force you to practice making new sentences, instead of just repeating sentences you already know. You can keep a diary of your day. You should also keep a small journal where you write down new words when you hear or see them.
9. **Travel to an English-speaking nation.** Traveling to a place where everyone speaks English will help you learn a lot faster. Take a temporary job or a study abroad course in an English-speaking country. You can also take shorter trips, but immersing yourself in the language for at least 3 months will help the most.
10. **Teach yourself.** Of course, you can teach yourself English too. The trick to teaching yourself English fast is to make it the most important thing to you. Spend all of your free time studying and use your English as often as you can.
11. **Take advantage of online tools and phone apps.** There are many online tools for helping you to learn English faster. These range from flashcard type programs to phone apps. Try ANKI (flashcards), Memrise (flashcards and so much more), or Forvo (pronunciation guide).
12. **Immerse yourself.** Immersion is one of the best ways to learn a language. This means that you need to study English every day, for at least 3 hours a day. One hour once a week is not enough to learn. If you can spend at least 6 hours a day hearing, writing, and speaking English, this will help you the most.
13. **Do work with small sets of words.** When you are trying to learn new words, don't work from a giant list of vocabulary. Learn only a few words at a time and do not move on until you really know those words.
14. **Do label everything in your home.** Put a label on everything in your home to help you learn those words. This will teach you to think of the image when you see the word, instead of translating everything in your head.
15. **Do make use of Google Images.** Google image search is a great way to learn nouns (and some other types of words) in a language. Search new words in the image search tool and the pictures that show up will help you learn!
16. **Don't try to learn with flashcards.** Generally, you should not use flashcards with only words (with the English word on one side and your word on the other). This teaches you to translate everything inside your head, making you slow to understand the English you hear. Instead, try to learn the English word with a sound or picture.
17. **Don't focus too much on grammar.** The thing about English is that most people don't speak with perfect grammar and few people even speak with good grammar. If you spend all of your time trying to learn the grammar, you'll waste a bunch of time. Speak incorrectly: it's ok! Someone will correct you and you'll learn over time. Eventually it will sound right and you won't even have to think about it.
18. **Don't be afraid to try!** The most important part of learning a language quickly is to just speak it. Just use your language skills as much as you can. Don't worry about being wrong or not saying something correctly. Not using your skills makes you learn so much slower. Just speak! You can do it! | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-English-Faster", "language": "en"} |
How to Clean a Chicken Coop | Chickens require a clean coop for a healthy life. Cleaning your coop requires considering the size of your coop and flock. Choosing the right tools and materials is a big part of cleaning the coop successfully. Think about your own health, too, and invest in some gloves and a face mask, and practice basic hygiene when cleaning the coop. A dirty coop puts both chickens and people at risk of illness.
1. **Clean your dropping boards.** The dropping boards are the pieces of wood located directly below the chicken roosts. They are designed to catch chicken droppings deposited overnight. You should clean these once each morning. This way, you minimize the amount of time the feces spends on the board before being cleaned.
To clean the dropping boards,put some disposable gloves on and scrape the droppings off with a taping knife. You can scrape each board directly into your compose pile, or scrape them all off into a small pail, then dump the pail on your compost pile.
If you see poop on the roosts, scrape them clean with your taping knife, too.
2. **Evaluate the condition of your bedding.** If the bedding is visibly soiled or smells bad, you should dispose of it. You can compost your used chicken coop bedding like pine shavings and hay. If your bedding looks generally good and is free of odors, you can simply set it out in the sun where it will naturally dry. The sun will kill also pathogens, bacteria, and mold.
You should remove any noticeably dirty bedding every morning.
3. **Replace the bedding.** Add fresh, clean bedding to the coop. If you simply took the old bedding out and allowed it to dry after removing the badly soiled bits, place the bedding back in the coop.
4. **Check the nesting boxes.** Evaluate the condition of the bedding in your nesting boxes each morning. Replace any dirty straw or pine shavings. Add new bedding as needed.
To keep your nesting boxes clean, make sure they are located at a height which is lower than your roosts. Otherwise, your chickens will roost (and poop) in the nesting boxes. For the same reason, do not position the nesting boxes directly below roosts.
5. **Remove the chickens from the coop.** If your chickens are free-range, stick them outside for a bit. If they aren't, put them in a shed or garage of some sort. Chickens cannot fly well, so you shouldn’t worry about your chickens escaping. If your chickens have had their wings clipped, they will be even less likely to fly off. Keep the gate to your yard closed and you should be fine.
If you have time, you can take advantage of the opportunity you have to get your chickens out of their cages. If you have a partner, you could ask them to clean the chickens while you continue to work on the coop.
6. **Remove everything from the floor.** Bedding, dirt, droppings, and dirt should all be shoveled or raked out. You should also remove all the tools and items which might be in the coop. Your feeder, waterer, nesting boxes, and roosts (if they are removable) should all be removed and wiped down with a nontoxic household cleaner. After taking out all the bedding and other removables, go back over the floor with a broom and sweep out any bits you may have missed.
Check the ceiling for cobwebs at this point, too. Use your broom to remove any you see.
7. **Hose the floor down.** Once the bedding and other materials have been removed from the coop, turn a high-powered hose on the floor to wash it out. You could use a power washer, though you don’t need to. Point the hose toward the floor and move it in a back-and-forth motion in order to ensure you’ve applied water to the entire surface.
The water will help soften up any manure or dirt that is strongly attached to the floor. Go back over these areas with a paint scraper in order to remove them.
Allow the water to drain somewhat. If you have a coop which drains poorly, mop up the rest of the water.
8. **Apply your coop cleaner.** Spray or slosh your cleaner liberally across the surface of the floor and give the floor a good scrubbing. Spray it on the walls if you notice spots of grime, droppings, or blood. Use a stiff-bristled brush on the areas you want to clean, and scrub them vigorously with wide, circular motions.
Allow the coop to dry by opening all the doors and windows. If the coop cleaner is not draining out properly, use a mop to absorb excess liquid.
9. **Apply diatomaceous earth (DE) to the floor.** DE is a fine powder made of fossilized algae called diatoms, and prevents infestations of ticks, fleas, mites, digestive worms, and other pests. With your coop’s floor dry and clean of feeders, nesting boxes, and other removable objects, sprinkle some DE across the floor of your coop. The amount you’ll need varies with the size of your coop. If you have a large coop, use a large amount. If you have a smaller coop, use a smaller amount.
You could sprinkle the DE with a small spoon by scooping some up and then shaking your hand back and forth over the floor, allowing a bit to spill over the edge of the spoon with each shake. Alternately, you could use a duster to apply the DE. A duster sprays the DE out when squeezed, and is useful for getting it deep in the cracks and crevices of your coop.
Ensure you use food grade DE.
Do not inhale the DE. It can cause inflammation of the lungs.
10. **Put down new bedding.** New bedding will complete the process of making your chicken coop a chicken home. If you chose to dry the old bedding in the sun rather than discard it entirely, you can bring it back in and replace it on the floor.
11. **Invite your birds back in.** After you've added the bedding, put the rest of the items you removed -- such as the feeder and waterer -- back inside the coop. Refill the food and water if needed. Finally, bring your chickens back inside.
12. **Decide when to clean your coop.** While certain maintenance tasks like checking the nesting boxes, dropping boards, bedding should be checked each day and changed as needed, a full-coop cleaning can occur at various intervals. How often you choose to clean your coop top-to-bottom depends on how many chickens you have and how big your coop is. Clean your coop more often if you have many chickens in a small space. You can clean your coop less often if you have few chickens in a big coop.
If you detect any foul stink, especially one reeking of ammonia, your coop needs a serious cleaning.
Always err on the side of cleanliness when deciding whether or not your coop needs to be cleaned.
Some coops can be cleaned as few as three times a year, while others call for cleaning every two weeks.
When you get a new flock, clean your coop out before housing them within.
13. **Wear disposable gloves.** Cleaning the chicken coop can be a dirty business. You should minimize the chances of touching something yucky by wearing disposable gloves. Not only will this keep your hands clean, but it can minimize your risk for contracting germs and illnesses like Salmonella.
Disposable gloves are readily available at most gardening or housing supply stores.
Using disposable gloves help reduce the risk of spreading bacteria as gloves are thrown away after use.
If gloves become punctured during use, put a new pair on to avoid spreading bacteria.
Wash your hands with soap after exiting the chicken coop and removing your gloves.
14. **Use a designated pair of shoes for cleaning the coop.** You probably already have a pair of shoes you wear only when cleaning the chicken coop. If you do not, select your rattiest pair of sneakers and use them exclusively when cleaning the chicken coop. Remove the shoes just before you step into your house. This way, you won’t track any of the chicken coop grime into your home.
15. **Wear a face mask.** Chicken coops can collect dust that you don’t want to breathe in. If your chicken coop is mostly enclosed, the problem is compounded. No matter what type of coop you have, however, you should always put a face mask on when you enter the chicken coop.
Ear loop masks of the variety worn by doctors tend to be the most comfortable, and effectively cover both mouth and nose.
Prevent dust buildup by providing adequate ventilation for your chicken coop.
16. **Dress down when cleaning your coop.** Wear old shirts and tattered jeans that you don’t mind messing up when cleaning your coop. Since you might be kneeling or brushing against the inside of your chicken coop, you should not wear clothes that you would mind getting grimy, dusty, and gross. After you’ve finished cleaning the coop, change into something clean. Wash the clothes you wore into the coop as soon as possible.
17. **Use a coop cleaner.** There are many coop cleaners available. Only use cleaners that are nontoxic and free of ingredients like bleach and creosote. Avoid aerosol sprays as well. Try to find a cleaner that leaves behind a pleasant odor when used. You could choose a cleaner from your local farm supply store specifically designed to clean chicken coops, or you could use a household cleaner.
If you mix bleach and ammonia (a primary component of chicken feces), you can create toxic fumes, and irritate the lungs and eyes.
18. **Make your own cleaning solution.** There are many varieties of homemade coop cleaner, all of which contain vinegar and water as main ingredients. For example, you could easily create a pleasant-smelling lavender-mint cleaning agent by mixing half a handful of fresh mint, half a handful of fresh lavender leaves and flowers, and half of a vertically-sliced vanilla bean in a standard-size mason jar of white vinegar.
Fill the jar with vinegar and stop when it is 1/4 inch from the top. Let the jar sit for three to four weeks, shaking three times every other day.
When the vinegar smell has mostly been replaced with a minty-lavender scent, strain the leaves and vanilla bean out and pour the mix into a spray bottle.
An even more basic recipe calls for an equal mix of water and white vinegar.
19. **Use a combination of cleaning products.** Don’t feel obligated to use just one cleaning agent when cleaning your coop. Different cleaning agents often have different strengths. For instance, one cleaner might do well against poop on the floor, while another might do well against dirt and mud. Try a variety of cleaners in order to find which work best for your coop. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Chicken-Coop", "language": "en"} |
How to Write a Status Report | A status report might seem like a chore, but it can be a great opportunity to communicate about a project with management. In order to keep everyone in the loop, it’s really important to make sure you present everything clearly. Put the most important information in a summary at the start of the report. Provide specific details about the project's budget and timeline, then describe accomplishments and challenges. Keep your writing clear and concise. Your manager will appreciate an organized report that is brief, but informative.
1. **The budget and schedule are the most important parts of most projects.** Your manager wants to know that the project will be completed on time, and ideally under budget.
The overall information for the project will likely be broad. Find out what smaller things must be done to achieve the ultimate goal. For example, if your goal is to produce 1,000 T-shirts and your budget is $500, you need to know what materials are needed to produce the shirts and whether they are already on hand or must be ordered.
2. **Splitting up larger goals allows you to better evaluate your progress.** Start with specific deadlines that have already been set, then try to build in time where you can to accommodate challenges.
For example, if your goal is to produce 1,000 T-shirts in 4 months, you can break that goal down into smaller goals of 250 T-shirts each month. If the team produced 300 T-shirts in the first month, you could report that you were ahead of schedule.
3. **Put accomplishments at the top, focusing on milestones.** The purpose of a status report is to let your manager know quickly what is working and what isn't. Include as many specific details as possible.
If you're working on a team, talk to other team members about what's going well with the project. Include as many names in your report as possible.
Use specific numbers where you can, as opposed to generalities.
4. **If you recognize issues with the project, don't try to hide them.** Instead, be up front with your manager about the issues and suggest solutions. Try to come up with several options so they can choose the one they like best.
For example, if your project is ahead of schedule but behind on budget, you might suggest speeding up production, adding another employee to the project, or boosting the budget.
5. **Using the current status of the project, predict when you’ll reach the next milestone.** Through the lifetime of the project, smaller goals represent milestones that must be achieved by a certain point to keep the project on track.
For example, suppose you produced 250 shirts in 28 days. You might predict that the next 250 shirts will be completed in 28 days from the date of the status report.
6. **Recognize people who have contributed a lot to your project.** Include a human element to your status report with information about team members whose work has been outstanding, or changes made that affected performance.
For example, you might write "The project is ahead of schedule, in large part, thanks to the diligent efforts of Sally Sunshine. Sally worked overtime 3 days last week."
7. **Many companies have a standard template that they use for all status reports.** If your company has one, using it can help you keep your report organized and ensure all the necessary information is included.
If there's not a specific template, there may be one you can use in your word processing app. You can also find sample templates online by searching for "status report template." Make sure any template you download will actually work for your project. You may want to let a supervisor look at it first.
8. **Check if your company has a specific format for status report titles.The title or heading of your report should state the name of the project or work you're reporting on, and the dates the report covers.** If you'll be responsible for several reports, they should all be titled in the same format.
For example, your heading might be "August 2018 Parker Shipment Status." A report for the next month would be "September 2018 Parker Shipment Status."
9. **Managers are busy and may not have time to read your entire report.** The executive summary provides the most important information up front so your manager knows the status of your project at a glance.
For example, the executive summary for "August 2018 Parker Shipment Status" might be: "The Parker Shipment is ahead of schedule. However, we've used 50% of our budget with only 30% of the total shipment produced. Speeding up production may help decrease costs."
10. **Long blocks of text can take too long to scan, and are cumbersome to read.** Use short paragraphs and bullet-point lists where possible, so your report is easier for your manager to digest.
For example, you might have one section for accomplishments, another for challenges, and a third for solutions.
11. **Find out when status reports are due and carve time each day to work it.** That way you won't be rushing to try to do it at the last minute.
If you're working on an ongoing project, you can create a "template" for your status reports that you'll use each time. This will be much easier for your manager, because they'll know exactly where to find the information they need in each report.
If you need to update figures included in the report before you turn it in, leave yourself reminders to do so.
12. **Organize your report so that the important things your are front and center.** If you're unsure about your manager's style and preferences, ask to see examples of previous status reports that they liked.
For example, if you know your manager likes to read a chronological story, you might start with a section headed "This Week's Progress," followed by another labeled "What's Next."
Try to speak to your manager specifically in the status report.
13. **Consider how your status report will be read.** If you're submitting a digital file of your report, you can include links to websites or even GIFs and videos, if appropriate. However, if you're submitting a hard copy, these elements won't be useful.
For example, if you're sending a digital file using email, you might want to make sure any visual elements can be viewed on a mobile device.
14. **Keep your sentences short, and eliminate unnecessary words and repetition.** Don't just rely on the spelling and grammar checkers in your word processing app. Read through and check the report yourself.
Your writing should be concise and direct. Avoid using a lot of jargon, which can make it seem like you're trying to hide something or don't know what you're talking about.
Read your report aloud. If you stumble over a sentence, that's a clue that your writing is not as clear as it could be.
15. **Some managers prefer visual cues as to how a project is doing.** That way, they can more quickly assess the project's status. Only include visual elements if you were specifically asked to do so, or if you think they would add something to the report.
For example, you might put a green traffic light next to the budget, to indicate that costs were being managed well. If you're a little behind schedule, you would put a yellow light next to the scheduling section. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Status-Report", "language": "en"} |
How to Hire a Personal Chef | A personal chef is ideal for busy families and individuals who have strict dietary needs. Their job involves visiting your home and preparing meals according to a pre-planned menu designed around your dietary needs and favorite foods. Personal chefs can do anything from grocery shopping for the food to cooking meals to providing instructions for reheating and serving the food. To hire a personal chef, first determine your culinary needs, then interview several candidates to find the one best suited to your lifestyle.
1. **Decide whether you want a one-time hire or a long-term agreement.** Personal chefs provide a range of services. Some offer assistance with dinner parties (or other single-meal events like date night) by planning a menu, shopping, prepping the ingredients, cooking, and cleaning up.
Others offer their services more regularly through weekly meal prep—cooking a variety of dishes for you to reheat and serve throughout the week.
2. **List your particular dietary concerns.** People often hire personal chefs when they are making major shifts in their diets. Accommodating conditions like diabetes or gluten allergies can be easier with the guidance of a professional. Or, you may simply be interested in eating healthier and incorporating more organic ingredients.
Keep in mind that more restrictive dietary requests, such as organic only or gluten-free, will likely increase the cost.
3. **Ask yourself if certification or professional affiliation is important to you.** A certified or professionally affiliated chef has met certain standards and undergone training in safe food handling and preparation. They likely value continuing education and perpetually progressing in their craft. Through their professional association, they also have access to the latest industry trends and research.
These are typically national or international organizations. Some well-known examples include the International Association of Professional Organizations, the American Personal and Private Chef Association, and the United States Personal Chef Association.
Not all personal chefs belong to a professional chef organization, however, and that doesn't mean they’re not reputable cooks. A chef with culinary training or work experience in a restaurant is likely reputable, even if they haven't joined a professional organization. Hiring based on professional affiliation simply assures that all candidates have been fully vetted by industry professionals.
Certified or affiliated chefs are generally more expensive.
4. **Come up with a budget so you know what chefs you can afford.** Hiring a personal chef can be much more affordable than you might expect. Half a day’s cooking (approximately two meals for the week) costs upwards of $250. Prices vary significantly depending on your area and whether you’ve got strict dietary restrictions, however. Decide how much you can budget for a personal chef, and use that number to guide your search.
In the U.S., for instance, the median price of a personal chef cooking five meals for a family of four is roughly $200-$300 per week (not including groceries).
Compared to North America, personal chef services are about 15% more expensive on average in Asia and South America.
To save money, consider hiring a talented amateur cook—they tend to be far cheaper than a professional personal chef. Think of friends, family members, or acquaintances who are excellent cooks and consider asking them if they would be willing to regularly prepare meals for you or your family for a fee. The best way to find amateur cooks is typically through personal networks like friends or neighbors.
Splitting the service with another family or a friend can also make a personal chef more affordable.
5. **Use an online directory of local services to find candidates.** Websites like Thumbtack, Angie’s List, Craigslist, and Care.com have sections devoted to chef services. Some of them also feature reviews from previous customers. Search through the available personal chefs in your area to see if any of them stand out.
It’s difficult to transport food long distances, particularly if it’s being cooked off-site. Use location services to find candidates within a reasonable distance of your home.
This may be a better search option if you are looking for a chef who doesn’t belong to a professional chef association.
6. **Browse the websites of personal chef associations for affiliated candidates.** If you have determined that affiliation is important to you, you can hone your search by using dedicated portals created by professional chef associations. The International Association of Professional Organizations offers a directory that includes professional personal chefs at https://www.iapcollege.com/iapo-professional-directory/.
If you are located in the United States, the American Personal and Private Chef Association (APPCA) allows you to search for personal chefs by state at https://www.personalchefsearch.com/.
The United States Personal Chef Association also features a search portal for affiliated personal chefs at https://www.hireachef.com/.
7. **Ask for recommendations from friends or family.** If you know people who use personal chefs, speak with them about setting up an interview with their personal chefs. They might also know an amateur cook who would be interested. These individuals tend to be much cheaper than a professional personal chef, while still being able to meet your family’s culinary needs.
If you’re considering an amateur, check your local laws to make sure that personal chefs are not required to have a business license or food handling certification (or both).
8. **Hang a job posting at a nearby culinary school.** Students training to be professional chefs may be looking to pick up a part-time job to build their real-life skills. Make sure to include details about any dietary restrictions and how often you would like them to prepare food for you or your family.
When you write your posting, think about including some key information about your home, including: how many children you have and what age they are (if any), when you would like the chef to cook at you home, and any unique quirks your kitchen might have, such as an oven than runs hot. This will ensure the candidates who apply know what their work environment will be like upfront.
9. **Set up meetings with several strong candidates.** Ask the chef to bring sample menus and explain how they operate. This is also the time to discuss what the chef charges and how you'll be expected to pay.
Double-check that these candidates have personal liability insurance. A number of accidents can happen in the kitchen, so you need to make sure that your personal chef carries liability insurance in case of an accident.
If you are in the U.S., ask if they are ServSafe certified. This is a rigorous, national training program focused on safe food handling. If they are not, ask if they've completed other training on safe food handling, such as a course from the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals.
10. **Discuss the chef's background during the interview.** Some people want a chef who has professional training, while others are perfectly fine working with a chef who is self-trained. Asking about where they developed their cooking skills will help you figure out if it’s a good match.
Consider asking how their service differs from other personal chefs. Watch for an answer that mentions high-quality ingredients, creativity with menus, and an attention to food safety practices.
11. **Speak with at least 2 references for each chef.** Call or email the other clients and ask for their opinions about the chef's food, ability to follow dietary guidelines, and overall personality. Make sure at least one of these references is professional, if not both.
Ideally, a potential chef should be able to provide 3 professional and 3 personal references.
12. **See if any of the chefs offer a trial run for a reduced fee.** This means they will prepare one meal for you so that you can see their cooking style and ability to clean your kitchen to your standards. Not every chef advertises this option, but it doesn't hurt to ask.
If they don’t offer a reduced fee, ask about hiring them for full-price for a week or two for a trial run instead.
If you're hiring the chef for one event, you may want to hire them for a single, test-run meal to make sure they meet your expectations.
13. **Consider signing a contract with the chef you’ve selected.** A personal chef should not require you to sign a contract to cook for you. But, some may offer a discount if you do—ask the chef you’re considering if this is the case with their business.
Before signing a long-term contract, make sure you’ve done careful research on the chef and contacted several professional and personal references. A contract means you'll have trouble firing the chef should you find that he or she doesn't meet your needs. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Hire-a-Personal-Chef", "language": "en"} |
How to Become an Automotive Technician | Automotive technicians work in a variety of roles in the automotive industry. Whether you're repairing commuter cars, servicing commercial diesel trucks or building the next generation race car, the opportunities for technicians are as varied as they can be rewarding. If you are considering a career as an automotive technician, start by pursuing an education in the field and gain as much experience as you can along the way.
1. **Gain some hands on experience.** Start by working at home with your own car, or assisting a friend or family member as they work on theirs. You may find that you have a particular knack for some aspects of auto repair or maintenance.
Working on cars in an informal manner can help you gain an understanding of the craft.
Take this opportunity to see if the job is right for you.
2. **Gauge your interest in aspects of the work.** Automotive technicians work in a wide variety of settings and on varied applications. As you work on your own car or the vehicles of a friend or family member, think about what aspects of the work really interest you.
The parts of working on cars that you find the most interesting are often the best ones to pursue professionally.
You may also find that there are certain aspects of the work that you would prefer not to pursue.
3. **Develop an understanding of the job.** Automotive technicians preform a wide variety of tasks in a vast array of professional settings. Some technicians work at dealerships and help repair vehicles of a specific make, while others work in repair facilities that may work on every type of vehicle.
Automotive technicians perform routine maintenance on vehicles as well as in depth repairs.
Some technicians work on customer vehicles, while others may work solely on vehicles owned by the company they work for.
4. **Make sure you are physically capable.** Being an automotive technician can be a physically demanding job that may require long hours on your feet and an ability to work in extremely hot or cold environments. If there are certain environments you are not able to work in, you may still be an automotive technician, but it may narrow down your employment options.
Working on a vehicle above your head on a lift requires looking up and keeping your hands above your head for a long period of time.
There may be a lot of lifting required, so if you suffer from a physical disability that prevents you from picking up or carrying tools or parts, it may not be the right career choice for you.
5. **Consider the education requirements.** In order to receive the education required to work as an automotive technician, you will need to attend a school that offers automotive repair certifications. Apply for financial aid through the school of your choice if you have chosen one.
You should complete the FAFSA Federal application for financial aid as well in order to receive aid from the government.
6. **Think about a specialty.** Automotive technicians can enter a number of different specialized industries. You may want to work on specific cars or trucks, or you might choose to pursue working on diesel or commercial vehicles. Determining what field of automotive repair you want to pursue will help you enroll in the right programs.
Diesel and gas engines work slightly differently, requiring different types of training.
If you are unsure of a specific specialty you want to pursue, you may want to study regular auto repair.
7. **Enroll in a certification course.** Choose an accredited education program that offers automotive technician certifications. There are many options for technical schools to choose from, so find one that is close by, offers the certification you need, and may offer financial aid to help offset the cost of the program. You may need to apply for acceptance to some programs, so make sure you submit an application prior to the deadline for courses.
Look for schools that are accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence or that offer preparation for their exams.
Some programs are as short as fifteen months and offer the opportunity to work as a technician while you complete the program.
8. **Choose a career field.** As you complete your training, you should begin to consider what kind of place you'd like to work in. If you are studying diesel repair, you may want to work to repair and maintain a company's fleet. You may also want to work in a shop that repairs the vehicles for customers, or even in the racing industry.
There are benefits to working in each of the different career fields within the automotive industry, but you'll need to choose one that interests you.
Some fields are easier to get into than others. The racing industry can be very competitive and offer few openings, while dealerships are often hiring new techs for maintenance and repair.
9. **Consider internships.** Many schools offer internship programs to allow you to go and work as a tech to gain experience in the field, but you don't have to only pursue internships through the school. Many businesses hire interns for paid and unpaid positions.
Ask your school administration about internship programs to see if they can help get you into one.
Apply for internships you find posted on job board web sites or in the local newspaper.
Internships are a great way to gain important experience to make yourself a better candidate to hire when you complete your certification.
10. **Complete an automotive technician certification.** Work hard throughout school to earn passing grades and complete your certification as an automotive technician. You will need to take a test from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence in order to receive your certification or certifications. With these certification, you can begin applying for jobs as a certified tech.
If you have been interning for a company, you may ask if they would be willing to bring you on full time upon completion of school.
Look for positions on job boards and in local newspapers that you can apply for.
Some schools will cover the cost of testing with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, but others may not.
11. **Create a resume.** Before applying for a new job as an automotive technician, you will need to write a professional resume. Include your previous professional experience if you have any, as well as your education and any internships you may have completed.
Have a friend look over your resume for errors and proofread it a number of times yourself.
Be sure to include your name and contact information on the resume so hiring managers are able to contact you.
12. **Use the contacts you've gained through training.** As you begin looking for a technician position, contact people you've worked with or that you attended training with. They may be able to help get you an interview where they are working. If not, ask if they can serve as a reference as you apply to other jobs.
It is much easier to get hired if you know someone that works where you are applying.
Network with other people in the automotive field to help improve your chances at landing a job.
13. **Apply for entry level technician jobs.** Look for entry level technician positions on job board websites like Monster.com or Indeed.com. Complete the applications and submit them with a copy of your resume.
If you don't hear back from places you apply to within a week or so, call them to follow up on the application.
You may choose to deliver the application in person, but it is not always required.
14. **Attend interviews dressed professionally.** When you receive a call for an interview, make sure you arrive a few minutes early and are dressed in a way that puts your best foot forward.
Even mechanics and technicians should interview in appropriate, clean clothes to demonstrate your professionalism.
You may not need to wear a suit, but clean, pressed pants and a button up shirt or blouse are always a safe bet.
15. **Negotiate salary and discuss benefits.** Once you interview and are offered a position, discuss the pay rate with the hiring manager. You may opt to request a higher rate than is initially offered. If you choose to do so, be sure to approach it professionally.
Try saying something like, “I am extremely interested in this position, but I have a few other offers. Would it be possible to offer a slightly higher pay rate?”
Make sure you understand what benefits are available to you, as well as things like Paid Time Off.
16. **Start your new career.** Once you come to an agreement with the hiring manager, it's time to start your new career as an automotive technician! Remember, being a technician can lead to many career opportunities, so consider continuing to pursue more education and certifications.
Becoming an ASE Certified Mechanic can offer you great options for career growth,
Branching out into welding, body work or specialty engine building can all increase your pay rates and opportunities in the field. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Automotive-Technician", "language": "en"} |
How to Spend One's Holidays Without Getting Bored | Are you spending your holidays sitting around bored with nothing to do? Don't waste your precious days off - there many, many things you can do to occupy yourself, even if holidays are a week long or longer. You can find many ways to fill your days, both inside and out, using your intellect or your creative energies, or simply hanging out with other people.
1. **Step out into the fresh air.** Simple outdoor pleasures are highly underrated. Not only is a quick trip out of the house invigorating and mood-lifting, but also a great opportunity for exercise. If you have been thinking of reducing those bulges, then go out and jog, walk or do any outdoor physical activity you enjoy.
If the weather is bad or you do not want to go out, then go to the gym or do sit-ups inside the house as a form of exercise.
2. **Do something you have never done before.** If you have been thinking of doing something and never have the time to do it, then do it. Do not waste your time sitting in front of the TV and watching reruns over and over when you could be broadening your horizons with a brand-new experience. Below are just a few ideas:
Travel and expose yourself to different lifestyles and cultures
Trying a new kind of food
Checking out a new club or hang-out spot
Playing a new sport
Exploring a new area of wilderness.
3. **Go on an adventure with a friend.** Grab a companion and try to find cool new places to explore. Visit a town you have never been to, or go for a walk in the woods. Remember to practice good safety habits when exploring a new area and take a charged mobile phone with you.
4. **Do something sporty.** You can ride your bike, walk, play your favorite sport or even try a new one. Any of these sorts of activities are a good way to get healthy.
5. **Try to learn more about something that interests you.** Expand your knowledge by investigating something you haven't previously had time to learn about. This can be anything, from astronomy to zoology!
6. **Learn new skills.** The holidays are a great time to spend on self-improvement. Devote your time to something you haven't previously had time to practice, such as dancing, playing the piano, swimming, etc. The more skills you have, the more opportunities are open to you in life.
7. **Expand your linguistic ability.** Language skills are some of the most useful, universal ones on the planet. Use your time to learn any new language or learn a form of programming like visual basic or HTML. If you're especially bored, try making your own codes or ciphers.
8. **Read a book.** Any book can help expand your vocabulary and creative writing abilities. However, choose your book wisely so it is worth your time - pulpy, trashy dime store novels are fun, but aren't terribly enlightening.
9. **Spend time with your friends.** If you can't think of things to do, one of your friends probably can. When all else fails, simply try going for picnics or hanging out at a shopping mall with your friends. A sleepover is another great idea.
10. **Help another.** If you have nothing you need to do for yourself, you may want to volunteer to help someone else. Ask friends and relatives if they have any projects they need help on, and, if so, offer your services!
11. **Spend time with loved ones.** The holidays are a great opportunity to have rare, cherished conversations with family members you haven't seen for a long time. For instance, you might want to visit your grandparents and have a quality talk with them. You might be surprised how funny and insightful some of your very own relatives have become without your noticing.
12. **Spend time with your pet if you have one.** Time with a cherished animal friend is underrated, especially if it's with one you haven't seen for a while. Your pet (or pets) probably miss you if you've been gone, so spend a little time walking them, playing with them, etc. A pet's unconditional love can be a great mood-booster if you've become oppressively bored over the holidays.
13. **Get to know more people.** If there's no one around that you'd like to spend time with, don't forget that you always have the option of making new friends. You might choose to do this at a social hang-out spot like a club, or, alternatively, at an event like a concert. Don't be afraid to approach and talk to people you meet - new friendships have to start somewhere!
You'll never make new friends from inside your home, so get out there! Getting out of the house is the most crucial, pivotal step in turning a boring holiday into a fun, productive one.
14. **Throw a party.** Having a party is a great way to have fun. You can invite your friends and have a fiesta themed on the weather. If it's sunny, have it beach themed. If it's cold, you and your friends can stay inside and have a nice cup of cocoa.
15. **Create art.** Use your free time to dive into the creative pursuit of your choice. If you are interested in music, then try making some new music. If you love writing, then try making an article on WikiHow! The possibilities are endless.
Try such artistic endeavors as clay modelling, or a collage, or even start decorating your room. Choose things that let you express your mind.
16. **Think money.** If you're saving up for something but can't be bothered to wait, set up a stall outside your house. It's the easiest thing to do - get some old toys and make some food, and you're done. If it doesn't go that well, at least you had fun trying and you've tidied out the old things to make way for the new. Check with your local council to make sure you are allowed to do this.
17. **Do odd jobs for money.** Try babysitting, car washing, lawn mowing, garden tidying, house-sitting, pet-sitting, dog walking, etc.
18. **Get chores and tasks out of the way.** The holidays are one of the few times each year when most people have lots of free time. If you have no pressing commitments with family or friends, consider using your time to finish duties that you've been putting off for a long time. For instance, if you've neglected cleaning your room for ages, devote your entire afternoon to doing so. Other good ideas include filing your taxes, running errands, paying bills, re-organizing your closet, and servicing your car.
19. **Relax.** If none of these ideas appeal, perhaps it's a rest day. Just do whatever you want or do nothing at all. Have a day in and relax, or go kite-flying. It's up to you!
Try cloud-watching or star-gazing. It's a good excuse to lie on the ground and just watch the sky fly by. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Spend-One%27s-Holidays-Without-Getting-Bored", "language": "en"} |
How to Use Google Photos | Install Google Photos on your iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows devices to keep all of your photos backed up to one location. Google Photos will work behind the scenes to automatically back up your photos. Once backed up, you can even delete photos from your device to reclaim precious disk space.
1. **Open the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android).** To get the most out of Google Photos features, such as automatic photo backups, install the app from your device’s app store.
2. **Tap the Search box.**
3. **Type google photos.**
4. **Select “Google Photos” from the search results.**
5. **Tap GET (iOS) or INSTALL (Android).** If you see an UPDATE button, Google Photos is installed but out of date. Tap UPDATE to get the latest version of the app.
6. **Tap OPEN.**
7. **Tap GET STARTED.**
8. **Sign in to your Google account as prompted.**
9. **Make sure “Back Up & Sync” is on.** This makes it so your photos automatically upload to Google Photos.
10. **Make sure “Use cellular data to back up” is off.** Otherwise, your phone will automatically back up your photos when you’re not on Wi-Fi. This can be costly!
11. **Tap “Continue.”**
12. **Select a photo upload size.** High quality: This will work great for most people. Photos and videos will upload at a maximum of 1080p full HD resolution and 16 megapixels.
Original: You’ll be able to upload higher quality photos and videos. Choose this option if you’re a professional photographer who already pays for extra space in the Google cloud.
13. **Tap “Continue.”** Now you’ll see a brief tutorial.
14. **Swipe left through the tutorial.** When it’s complete, you’ll arrive at the Photos screen.
15. **Open a web browser.** If you also store photos on a macOS or Windows computer, you’ll want to install Google Photos Backup so they automatically back up to the cloud.
16. **Navigate to http://photos.google.com/apps.**
17. **Click DOWNLOAD.** Follow your web browser’s prompts to save the installer to your computer.
18. **Run the installer file.** This is different depending on your computer.
Mac: Drag the Google Photos icon to the Applications icon. Then, double-click “Google Photos Backup.” If prompted, click Open to confirm.
Windows: Double-click the installer in your Downloads folder.
19. **Click I Agree.**
20. **Click Continue.**
21. **Sign in to your Google account.** Once the sign-in is complete, you’ll see the “Choose Backup Sources” screen.
22. **Place checkmarks next to your photo folders.** Any photos stored in one of these folders will be automatically backed up to Google Photos.
If you don’t see a folder you want to back up, click Add folder and select the correct folder.
23. **Select a photo upload size.** High quality: This will work great for most people. Photos and videos will upload at a maximum of 1080p full HD resolution and 16 megapixels.
Original: You’ll be able to upload higher quality photos and videos. Choose this option if you’re a professional photographer who already pays for extra space in the Google cloud.
24. **Click Start backup.** A confirmation popup will appear, letting you know that your backup has begun.
25. **Click OK.** This will close the window.
26. **Click the Google icon.** It’s a rainbow pinwheel icon located at the top right (macOS) or bottom right (Windows) area of the screen (near the clock). A brief menu will appear.
If you don’t see the icon on your Windows system, click the up-arrow next to the clock to show your hidden icons.
27. **Click “View Uploaded Photos.”** Google Photos will open in your default web browser. All of your backed up photos appear here.
28. **Open the Google Photos app.** When you launch the app, you’ll see a list of your photos you’ve added.
The photos appear in the order in which they were uploaded, with the newest photos appearing first.
You can also navigate your photos at http://photos.google.com.
29. **Tap a photo to see a larger version.** While you’re viewing a photo in this mode, you can:
Pinch to zoom in and out.
Swipe left or right to view the next photo in that direction.
Tap the Share icon to share the photo with other apps.
Tap the Pencil icon to edit the photo.
Tap the “i” icon to view photo details, such as the date it was taken and the size of the file.
Tap the trash icon to delete the photo.
30. **Tap the back button to return to your photos.**
31. **Tap the magnifying glass (mobile) or Search box (web).** This will open the Search panel.
32. **Scroll through the listed categories.** Google Photos has sorted your uploaded photos into those categories to make it easy for you to find what you’re looking for.
People: Google tries to group similar faces in your photos. See Label Faces in Google for tips on making the most out of this feature.
Places: Tap a location to view all photos taken there. This feature only works with photos that were taken with location data turned on.
Things: These are sub-categories of types of photos you may be looking for, such as Selfies, Cats, Screenshots, Sunsets, etc.
33. **Type something into the Search field.** Try searching for something you know is in your uploaded photos, such as “dogs” or “selfies.” If there are photos that match what you typed, they’ll appear in the search results.
34. **Open Google Photos.** Google Photos has built-in tools that can help improve the quality of your photos. You can access these tools in the mobile app or at http://photos.google.com.
35. **Tap a photo you want to edit.**
36. **Tap the pencil icon to enter Editing mode.**
37. **Tap the Basic Adjustments icon.** If the first icon on the second line of icons is blue, you’re already in this mode. Otherwise, tap that first icon (three broken horizontal lines). Here’s what you can do in this mode:
Tap “Auto” to have Google Photos automatically correct the photo’s basic elements, such as lighting and color.
Tap “Light” to access the brightness slider. Move it to the right to make the photo lighter, and to the left to darken.
Tap “Color” to control the photo’s color saturation. Move the slider to the right to increase saturation, and left to decrease.
Tap “Pop” to add additional vibrancy to colors and shadows.
Tap “Vignette” to surround the photo with darkened edges.
Tap the X to cancel your changes or tap the check mark to save them.
38. **Tap the Filters icon.** This is the second icon in the bottom row (a square with a landscape inside).
Tap any filter to see a preview.
Move the slider on the screen to increase or decrease the strength of the filter.
Tap the X to cancel your changes or tap the check mark to save them.
39. **Tap the Crop icon.** This is the third (last) icon on the bottom row in Editing mode. This tool helps you crop out just the part of the photo you want to keep.
Drag the corners inward until you’ve selected just the area of the photo you want to keep.
Tap the checkmark to save the cropped version of the photo.
Tap the X to cancel your changes.
40. **Open a web browser.** Automatic backups aren’t the only way to get your photos into Google Photos—you can also upload individual photos (such as photos you’ve downloaded from the internet) to Google Photos manually.
41. **Navigate to http://photos.google.com.** If you’re not already signed in to Google Photos, sign in when prompted.
42. **Click “Upload.”** It’s at the top of the screen, next to “Create.”
43. **Select the photo you want to upload.** To select more than one photo at a time, hold down ⌘ Cmd (macOS) or Ctrl (Windows) as you click each file.
44. **Click Open.** Your photos will now upload to your Google Photos account.
45. **Open Google Photos.** You can use the Google Photos Assistant to organize your photos, create collages, and other creative projects.
46. **Tap the ☰ icon.**
47. **Select “Assistant.”**
48. **Tap the “+” icon.** This is at the top right corner of the mobile app (you won’t see it on the website, but that’s okay).
49. **Choose “Album” to create a new album.** This is a great way to organize your photos by criteria that you choose.
Click or tap the photos you want to add to the album.
Click “Create.”
Type a name for your album.
Click or tap the check mark at the top of the screen to save your album.
See Organize Photos in Google Photos for more tips on using albums to keep your photos organized.
50. **Choose “Animation” to create a short animation from your photos.** Click or tap up to 50 photos to appear in your animation.
Click or tap “Create” to view your animation.
51. **Choose “Collage” to combine several photos into a single image.** Click or tap up to 9 photos for your collage.
Click “Create” to view your collage.
52. **Open Google Photos.** Your photos are private unless you decide to share them with others. With Google Photos, you can share content with others over email, Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, and many other apps.
Your sharing options will depend on your device and operating system.
53. **Tap or click a photo you want to share.** To select more than one photo in the mobile app, tap the ⁝ icon and choose “Select,” then tap your desired photos.
To select more than one photo on http://photos.google.com, hover the mouse over each thumbnail until you see a circle appear at its top left corner. Click that circle, and then click the circles in other photos you want to send.
54. **Tap the Share icon.** If you’re using iOS or macOS, it’s a square with an arrow. On an Android, it’s an angle bracket with dotted ends.
55. **Select your desired sharing method.** The options will be different depending on your device.
Choose “Get link” to create a URL to give to your desired recipient on any platform.
Enter an email address to email a link to the recipient.
Enter a phone number to send a text message with a link to the photo.
Choose a social media app to share the photo with users of that app. The image or link will open in the app.
56. **Open the Google Photos app.** Once your photos are backed up to Google Photos, you don’t need to keep them on your phone or tablet. The safest way to reclaim your disk space is to use the “Free Up Space” feature in the Google Photos app.
57. **Make sure your photos are backed up.** If you see thumbnails that have a crossed-out cloud icon, those photos are not backed up. Make sure your photos are backed up before attempting this method.
If your photos are only set to back up on Wi-Fi, make sure your Wi-Fi connection is working properly.
You can back up photos on Android and iOS devices.
58. **Tap the ☰ icon.**
59. **Tap “Settings.”**
60. **Tap “Free up device storage.”** A popup will appear, letting you know how many photos will be deleted and how much space you’ll reclaim.
61. **Tap “Delete.”** The photos will be moved to Trash (Android) or Recently Deleted Photos (iOS), so you can restore them if necessary.
Photos in these folders still take up space on your device until they expire. That’s 60 days for Android, and 30 days for iOS.
If you don’t want to wait, continue with this method to learn how to permanently remove deleted photos.
62. **Remove photos from the Trash in Android.** In Google Photos, tap the ☰ icon and select “Trash.”
Tap the ⁝ menu and select “Empty Trash.”
63. **Remove photos from Recently Deleted Photos on iOS.** Return to the home screen.
Tap the Photos app (the one that came with your phone).
Tap “Albums” and select “Recently Deleted.”
Tap “Select” at the top right corner.
Tap “Delete All.” | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Google-Photos", "language": "en"} |
8 Simple Strategies to Prevent You From Worrying About Your Adult Child | When you’re a parent, it’s common to worry about your child as they are growing up. But when they make the transition to adulthood, you might still find yourself awake at night wondering about your child’s career, financial, and relationship choices. It’s completely natural to worry about your adult children, and equally normal to want to stop. While you can’t stop worrying overnight, we’ll give you tips on how to put your mind at ease. The biggest steps you can take to stop worrying are to recognize that it’s okay to let go and let your child make their own mistakes and live their lives.
1. **Accept that your child needs to make mistakes in order to grow.** It’s hard to let go of your control and resist the urge to protect your child from the world. Take a deep breath and recognize that you have taught your child everything they need to know to succeed. Then accept that pain and mistakes are just a part of life and ultimately help your child develop the skills and wisdom to forge their own path.
Acceptance and limiting your worrying takes time and practice. It can be helpful to give yourself a dedicated 5 to 10 minutes each day to worry about your child, then move on with your day.
2. **Mindfulness can help remind you of their abilities and accomplishments.** To practice mindfulness, find a soothing, quiet place where you can mediate. Start by taking deep breaths, then focus your thoughts on your child. Think of their accomplishments, skills, and ability to overcome challenges. Remind yourself that you can only control yourself in this moment, and that your child is fully capable of handling themselves.
Set aside 5 to 10 minutes each day to meditate. It can feel strange meditating at first, but as you feel more comfortable, you can slowly increase your time.
Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of your surroundings and emotions, which can help lower stress and time spent ruminating.
3. **Be there for them, but refrain from giving unsolicited advice.** In adulthood, your child no longer wants or needs constant protection and guidance. Your child will likely make decisions that you don’t agree with, but stop yourself from guiding them and offering your opinion without being asked. Find peace in knowing that if your child is in trouble and needs you, they’ll ask for your help.
Let your child come to you for help, rather than asking them prying questions.
Giving your adult child advice without asking or inserting yourself into situations can strain your relationship. By trying to help too much, you can push your child away by making them think you don’t respect their independence or doubt their ability to make their own decisions.
4. **Limiting your financial and emotional support builds resilience.** As a parent, it’s easy for normal concern to turn into overwhelming help. Instead of rushing to take care of your adult child’s relationship or financial woes, take a step back. Recognize that your child needs to fix their own problems in order to develop resilience and skills—if you always take over, you might not be setting them up for success.
It’s okay to still offer your support, but let your child ask you for help. Help out in practical ways, such as pointing them towards helpful solutions or building up their confidence, instead of bending over backwards to fix everything.
If your child is still relying on you for financial support, establish boundaries with them. Have an honest conversation that you’re limiting your support, making it clear that it’s to help them, not punish them. Give them an appropriate deadline and limit your support gradually.
Try only calling your child once a week, so they can learn to work through their problems on their own.
5. **Journaling** Writing down each fear you have about your child and examining why they’re fears can help you let them go. As you journal, question what’s the worst thing that can happen—oftentimes, this helps show you that things aren’t as bad as you’re making them out to be.
Set aside a private, quiet time each day where you can write for 10 to 30 minutes. Many people like to write before they go to bed, but any time when your thoughts are clear is a great choice.
If a physical journal isn’t your thing, you can write down your thoughts on your phone or computer with a word processor. Apps like Day One and Penzu are also great open journaling options, while others like Five Minute Journal give you specific prompts each day.
6. **Focus on the positive by volunteering or finding an exciting hobby.** It is easy for parents to ruminate in their anxieties about their children, letting the negativity control their lives and relationship with their children. By finding a positive outlet to your energy, you can manage your worrying.
Have fun and experiment with different hobbies! You can start to knit, volunteer in your community, take up hiking, or plan game nights with your friends.
7. **Knowing that others share your worries can help you feel less alone.** Other parents can validate your feelings and give you advice about how to navigate this new era of parenthood. They can tell you how they cope with their stress and give you comfort in knowing that your worrying is normal.
8. **Talking to your child can reassure you that they’re capable and strong.** It’s important to be open with your child about your thoughts and feelings so they can understand where your stress and anxiety is coming from. Your child will likely understand because they worry about you too. They can help you work through your doubts and fears, and remind you that you raised them to be smart, competent, and resilient.
It can be difficult to be vulnerable with your child and admit that you’re worried. Whether your talking in person or on the phone, express your feelings with “I” statements and listen intently when your child responds. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Worrying-About-Your-Grown-Child", "language": "en"} |
How to Win at Pool | To win at pool, take heed of the old adage: practice, practice, practice! Winning requires impeccable technique, such as a good stance, appropriate grip and stroke, and good aiming. It also helps to take a few tips from the pros.
1. **Spend some time with a pro.** If you've never played pool much, consider hanging out with someone who knows the ins and outs. You could easily learn how to win at any game by learning everything a pro does before and during the game. They can give you some tips to help you play better, such as how to take a better stance when shooting.
2. **See the path.** When setting up your shot, envision a line through the cue ball to make contact with your ball. This visualization will help you aim. However, once you are hitting the cue ball, focus on the contact ball, not the path.
3. **Bust up clusters of balls early.** When running the table, it's best to deal with clusters as early as you can. That way, if you get on a roll later, you may be able to run the board without dealing with large clusters of balls together.
4. **Move balls that are in the way.** Deal with problem balls early in the game, either by rearranging the table or hitting those balls into a pocket. That way, you clear up the table to shoot other balls that were blocked.
5. **Go for a safety when you don't have a clear shot.** If you can't see a clear shot, you may be tempted to just hit one of your balls as hard as you can in an attempt to get it to go in a pocket. However, that's likely to end in disaster. Instead, try taking a safety shot.
A safety is where you set up the cue ball in a bad position for your opponent, or you hit your own ball into a position that blocks your opponent. Keep in mind, you still have to hit 1 of your own balls even if you're just wanting to move the cue ball to an awkward position.
6. **Set up 2-way shots to protect yourself when you miss.** When you have a difficult shot, setting up a 2-way shot can be beneficial. The idea is that you set up the shot in such a way that if you miss, you won't have left a chance wide open for your opponent. In other words, line it up so that you are setting up a difficult shot for your opponent even if you don't make your shot.
7. **Cover the pockets.** While it's tempting to hit your balls in that are sitting at the edge of pockets, it can be beneficial to leave them there. Essentially, you're blocking the pocket so your opponent can't hit a ball in there without hitting yours in, too.
8. **Avoid fouls.** Fouls work against you because you lose your turn. Plus, if you foul during a stroke, you don't receive credit for any balls you hit into pockets. It's best to avoid fouls if at all possible.
Fouls include things like hitting the cue ball into a pocket (scratching), hitting the cue ball more than once, pushing the cue ball instead of hitting it, and not hitting your balls with the cue ball before hitting another player's balls.
You also can't touch the cue ball with anything but the tip of the cue stick or cause any ball to bounce off the table.
9. **Keep an eye on your opponent.** Just because you're honest about fouls doesn't mean your opponent will be. Watch your opponent as they take their shot to make sure thy aren't committing any fouls without admitting to them.
10. **Find your shot.** Walk around the table once to find the best shot. A clear shot is best, and take the time to get at table level so you can evaluate how well you can see the shot. Don't be afraid to look at alternative shots to hit the same ball.
11. **Line up the shot.** Set your cue stick down on the edge of the table in line with how you want to shoot. The cue stick should create a visual line of how you'd like to hit the cue ball.
12. **Place your feet.** Put your dominant foot right behind the end of the cue stick. Your foot should be angled toward the cue stick. Your other foot should be at about a 30° angle from the cue stick. You don't want to be squarely facing the table, but rather, angled. Put equal weight on both legs.
13. **Clear your hip with the cue stick.** Grip the pool stick and lean forward. Move the cue stick backwards and forward a bit to make sure you won't hit your hip when trying to take a shot. If you're not clearing your hip, adjust your stance.
14. **Keep your head down.** As you move to take your shot, lower your head towards your cue stick. Keep your head tilted up a bit so you can see along the cue stick and aim your shot.
15. **Grip the cue with 2 fingers.** Stick to using your index finger and your thumb on your gripping hand. Point both your thumb and finger downward around the cue, and then wrap your index finger around the bottom of the cue. Your thumb should just rest on the cue.
When working on your grip, keep your other 3 fingers away from the cue. Eventually, once you get the feel for the 2-fingered grip, you can lightly rest the other fingers against the cue without gripping with them.
16. **Place your grip so that your arm is at a 45° angle.** Your grip will move up and down the cue based on the shot you're making. For instance, if you need more of the cue stick on the table, you're grip will be further down the cue stick. However much room you have, your forearm should come straight up from the cue stick and then make a 45° angle to your body.
17. **Set up your bridge.** You can use 1 of 2 bridges, the open or the closed bridge. With the closed bridge, you rest the cue stick on your middle finger and thumb, which are placed on the table. Your index finger loops loosely over the cue stick, and your other fingers are splayed out. With an open bridge, rest the cue stick on your thumb and index finger with your other fingers splayed out.
Use whichever one feels most comfortable to you. If you need to reach the cue ball over another ball, you can also use a mechanical bridge, a device you set on the table.
18. **Use a pendulum motion for your stroke.** If your arm is in the correct position, you should be able to swing just your forearm backwards and forwards without moving your upper arm. This movement is pendulum-like, and it creates a smooth motion forward.
19. **Adjust your power for the shot.** It's tempting to just hit the ball as hard as you can. However, you don't know where the cue ball may end up if you do that. Try to just use enough power to accomplish the shot and no more.
It will take practice to learn how much power to give each shot.
20. **Hit the ball on the right edge to create a counter-clockwise spin.** This technique, called the "Right English," is useful in causing a slight curve in the ball's path across the table. When it hits another ball, that ball will spin in the opposite direction. In addition, when the cue ball hits the side rail, it will go in another direction.
Left English refers to hitting the ball on the left edge, which produces the opposite effect.
21. **Avoid scratching by hitting the ball at the bottom edge.** If you hit the ball on the bottom edge, it creates backspin. That means that when it hits another ball, the cue will spin backward instead of moving forward. If you're trying to avoid scratching (hitting the cue ball into a pocket), creating backspin can help you out.
22. **Keep the ball moving forward by hitting the top edge.** Hitting the top edge has the opposite effect of hitting the bottom edge. It creates topspin, which means it keeps going forward after hitting another ball. This shot can be helpful if you need to hit more than 1 ball in a shot.
23. **Hit the contact ball with the edge of the cue ball.** Generally, when you're setting up a shot, you want to aim so that the edge of the cue ball makes contact with the other ball. You should set up an almost tangential shot, instead of hitting the contact ball dead on. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Win-at-Pool", "language": "en"} |
How to Understand Cuts of Beef | Beef, according to the USDA, comes from cattle that are considered full grown and are approximately two years old. These cattle generally yield 450 lbs of meat for human consumption coming from different parts of the cattle. Beef from different parts of the cattle are classified into different cuts. A 2010 study conducted in the United States with the Beef Checkoff Program revealed beef as the most popular meat sold in grocery stores. Many grocery stores carry more than 60 different beef products. With this many beef products to choose from it can be hard to know the difference between the cuts of beef. Knowing the difference between the cuts of beef can help with determining the best cut for nutrition, cooking methods, price and/or flavor.
1. **Identify the eight main cuts in which beef is available.** These are loin, brisket, chuck, shank, round, short plate, flank and rib and are known as primal cuts. From these 8 main cuts there are many different minor beef cuts and are known as subprimal cuts. Retail beef is usually labeled with the primal and sub-primal information.
2. **Choose loin for tender, flavorful beef.** The loin is found on the top of the cow directly behind the rib. Loin is a very tender cut of beef without much marbling and can be cooked quickly without it toughening. This is because the loin is not a heavily used muscle and does not contain much connective tissue. Loin tends to be the most expensive cut of beef.
Know the subprimal cuts from the loin. The loin can be divided into short loin and sirloin. The short loin yields more tender meat cuts than the sirloin, although both are still considered prized cuts.
Some common cuts from the short loin area are tenderloin roast, filet mignon, T-bone steak, strip steak, strip roast, filet of strip, porterhouse steak and hanger steak. Some common cuts from the sirloin area are sirloin steak, center cut sirloin steak, tri-tip steak, tri-tip roast, filet of sirloin, coulotte steak, ball tip steak, ball tip roast and bottom sirloin.
3. **Know the best prepping and cooking methods for loin.** Loin should be cooked with dry heat. This can be under a broiler, on a grill or in a pan. You want to avoid too much moisture when cooking loin because it may toughen the meat.
The short loin area cooks well with thick and thin cuts of meat and will usually remain tender from rare to well done. The sirloin area will not handle too much heat and will begin to toughen when cooked well done. If cooking well, try to cut sirloin steak and other sirloin area beef, like tri-tip or coulotte, into thinner portions and do not overcook. Sirloin also cooks well when marinated prior to cooking.
4. **Choose brisket for long slow cooking.** The brisket is the breast of the steer. It is a tough cut of meat, but tenderizes with slow cooking. It also contains a high amount of fat. Brisket is usually used for BBQ or deli meat.
Know the subprimal cuts from the brisket. Brisket is usually sold whole and has very few subprimal cuts. A few subprimal cuts you may find are brisket flat or brisket point. The difference between the two being flat cut is a leaner cut of meat and a more flat, uniform cut of meat.
Know the best prepping and cooking methods for brisket. Due to the toughness of brisket, it will benefit from a marinade or dry rub and moist cooking. A marinade can be applied up to 24 hours in advance.
Brisket does well when brined before cooking as well because the salt helps create moisture pockets in the muscle. It also does well when smoked at low temperatures for a long period of time.
Brisket should be cooked at lower temperatures for longer periods of time in order to minimize toughness. Cooking at a high temperature will make the connective tissue and fat tougher in brisket creating a chewy and dry cut of beef. The longer cooking allows the connective tissue and fat to dissolve into the meat giving it the moisture, tenderness and flavor desired.
5. **Choose chuck for a flavorful and cost effective cut of beef.** Chuck meat comes from the shoulder of the cattle and is highly used. Because of the high use of this muscle, the meat has a lot of connective tissue creating a tough cut. However, chuck comes in many subprimal cuts and can be prepared in many ways that overcome this toughness.
Know the subprimal cuts from the chuck. Chuck is sold ground or as whole muscle. Ground chuck is commonly used for hamburgers and other ground beef products. Some of the more tender cuts of chuck are flat iron steak, petite chuck tender roast and shoulder tender medallions.
The other cuts of chuck tend to be tougher, but still very flavorful. They are top blade steak, chuck roast, cross rib roast, short ribs, stew meat, chuck arm roast, mock tender steak, shoulder clod roast, mock tender roast, ranch steak, sierra cut, under blade steak, country style ribs, chuck eye roast and chuck eye steak.
Know the best prepping and cooking methods for chuck. Ground chuck cooks well grilled or pan fried without any prep work. Chuck roasts benefit the most from moist cooking at low temperatures for longer periods of time. Chuck roasts can be broiled, braised or cooked in a crock pot. The key to a tender and moist roast is low heat for a long period of time in order to dissolve the connective tissue.
Stewing works well for whole muscle cuts of chuck. When cooking with chuck steaks, a marinade or tenderizer will help tenderize the meat and keep it moist for grilling or other shorter cooking methods.
When marinating steaks, marinade for a shorter period of time, usually less than an hour. When choosing a chuck steak, select the thickness based on how you plan to cook it. For short cooking at higher temperatures a thinner steak will work well. For cooking in liquids or for longer periods of time a thicker steak will work well.
6. **Choose shank for a hearty and flavorful cut of beef.** Beef shank is found in front of the brisket and is the forearm of the cattle. This cut of meat contains a high amount of collagen and is used in many recipes that call for a gravy type of sauce.
Know the subprimal cuts from the shank. Shank is usually sold whole with the bone in, but it can be ground for lean beef as well. Sometimes shank can be found in a crosscut with the brisket meat attached.
Know the best prepping and cooking methods for shank. Shank has the best flavor when cooked with the bone in and should be cooked with moist heat. It benefits from long cooking at low heat. The collagen is released during cooking and will create a rich, creamy sauce. Shank is good for making soups and broths.
7. **Choose round for an inexpensive cut of beef that goes well with many meal styles.** The round is found on the back part of the cattle and includes the rump and hind leg. Round tends to be slightly tough due to the high use of the muscle and is considered a lean meat.
Know the subprimal cuts from the round. Round is often sold as ground beef and will be labeled ground round. There are many subprimal roast cuts as well. These include rump roast, top round London broil, bottom round London broil, top round roast, eye of round roast, bottom round roast, sirloin tip roast and sirloin tip center roast.
There are some steak cuts from the round as well. These include round petite tender steaks, top round steaks, bottom round steak, eye of round steak, sirloin tip center steak, sirloin tip side steak and butterfly top round steak.
8. **Know the best prepping and cooking methods for round.** Ground round and petite tender steaks can be pan fried or grilled without marinating and turn out tender and flavorful. The roasts can be cooked in various ways. These are with moist heat, such as braising, or with dry heat, such as roasting. When roasting, lower temperatures with longer cooking times will give the roast the best flavor.
The exception to cooking roasts is with London broil. London broil benefits the most from being marinated and grilled. Steaks from the round can be prepared in many ways. They all benefit from a marinade. After marinating, the steaks can be sautéed or grilled.
Another good method for cooking round steaks is braising in a flavorful liquid and marinating is not required. When marinating round it is important that you do not over-marinate. Due to the leanness of the meat, over-marinating will toughen the proteins and give the opposite of the desired effect. When using a marinade, it is best to start with a shorter marinating time, such as 20 minutes at room temperature, and increase the time as needed.
9. **Choose short plate for short ribs or fajita meat.** The short plate is found underneath the ribs near the abdomen area of the cattle. This cut contains some rib bones, cartilage and meat. It is not a lean cut of meat.
Know the subprimal cuts from the short plate. Short ribs and skirt steak are the subprimal cuts from the short plate. The short ribs contain more cartilage than the skirt steak.
Know the best prepping and cooking methods for short plate. For skirt steak and short ribs, removal of the membrane on one side is important before cooking. The membrane does not allow direct heat to penetrate the meat and will become chewy and tough when cooked.
The skirt steak does well when cooked with dry heat, in a pan or on the grill. It needs high heat and searing to develop flavors and should not be cooked to well done. Once it is cooked, slice it across the grain very thin.
Short ribs cook better with moist heat on lower temperatures at a longer time. They have a very full flavor and pair well with high flavor braising liquids, such as dark beer.
10. **Choose flank for a flavorful cut of beef that can feed many people.** The flank is on the underside of the cattle below the loin. Flank is a tough cut of beef.
Know the subprimal cuts from the flank. The subprimal cuts are flank steak or flap. Flank steak is the most popular cut and can be easily found in most supermarkets.
Know the best prepping and cooking methods for flank. Flank benefits from a marinade, usually no more than an hour. It can then be grilled, broiled or pan seared. Flank also benefits from braising.
11. **Choose rib for a tender cut of beef.** The rib cut comes from the backbone and ribs of the cattle. It generally contains a high amount of marbling and is used to make steaks, roasts and ribs.
Know the subprimal cuts from the rib. The steak cuts are Delmonico steak, filet of rib, cowboy steak, rib steak and ribeye steak. The roast cuts consist of prime ribeye roast and boneless ribeye roast. The cuts containing rib bones are back ribs and short ribs.
Know the best prepping and cooking methods for rib. There is a lot of versatility when cooking cuts of beef from the rib. The backbone area produces the tenderest cuts and the ribs tend to be slightly tougher, but all the cuts are very flavorful.
The steaks should be cooked with dry heat and can be sautéed, broiled or grilled. Depending on the thickness of the cut, they will cook quickly. Steaks from the rib are usually tender even when cooked well done due to the high amount of marbling.
To get the best steak, look for good marbling before purchasing. Roasts from the rib cook well with dry heat. Before cooking the roast, pat it with a towel to remove excess moisture, season and then roast in an oven.
Braising is not usually a good method for cooking a roast from the rib because it can toughen the meat. For the rib cuts braising is usually the best method because they do well with the extra moisture.
12. **Know the quality indicators for purchasing beef.** Most grocery stores carry quality beef. There are certain quality indicators to look for when purchasing beef and labeling information can be confusing. In order to avoid confusion it is best to have the cut you would like to purchase in mind before going shopping.
13. **Be sure the meat is cold and stored in a cooler at the grocery store.** You want the meat to be cold from the time it left the manufacturing plant to the time you purchase it in order to get the best quality with the least issue of bacterial contamination. If the meat does not feel cold to the touch in the store, you should not purchase it.
14. **Check the color of the meat.** It is best to purchase beef in clear packages so you can evaluate the color. It should be bright red or a purplish-red. There should not be any discolored spots, such as gray or brown. Often grocery stores will put beef on sale when it is close to expiration, so, in order to avoid purchasing lower quality beef, you will need to examine the beef for discoloration.
15. **Evaluate the moisture level in the beef package.** The fresher the beef is, the less free moisture there will be in the package. If there is an excess of water in the package, the meat may have been mishandled, stored at incorrect temperatures or close to expiration.
16. **Choose beef that is not soft or mushy to the touch.** Beef should be firm, with tougher or larger cuts of meat being more firm than tender or small cuts of beef.
17. **Select the appropriate thickness and cut.** If the meat looks like it has a rough uneven cut, you probably do not want to purchase it. Beef will cook more evenly when it is cut to the same thickness throughout the piece. If it is uneven, then you may have some parts overcooked or undercooked. When purchasing steaks that need to be cooked well done in a shorter amount of time, a thinner cut is usually best.
18. **Get the appropriate amount of marbling and fat.** For leaner cuts, such as eye of round or sirloin steak, choose beef with the least amount of marbling and visible fat. If you are cooking a higher fat cut or less tender cut, such as ribeye steak or chuck roast, then marbling and fat are important to the flavor. Marbling should be even throughout the meat without many large fat lines running through the meat. For roasts, having a layer of fat or larger fat lines can be beneficial to the flavor and tenderness after cooking because they will essentially “melt” into the meat.
19. **Check packaging carefully before purchase.** The meat should be completely sealed with no holes or exposure to air. Vacuumed sealed beef is a purplish-red color when it is sealed and turns bright red after exposure to oxygen. If you are purchasing vacuum sealed meat and it is bright red before you open it, the package may have been compromised and you may not want to purchase.
It is best to purchase in clear packages because you can see what you are getting. Sometimes ground beef is sold in packaged tubes. The ground beef is still fine to eat, but it may be a higher fat content or lower quality than ground beef in clear vacuumed sealed packages. It is still safe to eat as long as the package has not been compromised in any way. When purchasing beef from a butcher, be sure it is wrapped in sanitary packaging or paper and is sealed completely.
20. **Understand labeling of beef cuts.** Having beef that is labeled properly is important to understanding how to handle the beef and if it is right for your application.
Choose meat that is clearly labeled with the primal and subprimal cut information. There are some subprimal cuts from different primal cuts that have the same name. Without knowing the primal cut information you may purchase the wrong subprimal cut of beef.
Know what health claims are and which ones can be used with beef. Beef can be labeled with lean or extra lean health claims. In order to be considered lean, it must have less than 10 g of total fat, less than 4.5 g of saturated fat and less than 95 mg of cholesterol. In order to be considered extra lean, it must have less than 5 g of total fat, less than 2 g of saturated fat and less than 95 mg of cholesterol. Some packages of beef may have the American Heart Association (AH) check mark. This is not a health claim, but an endorsement from the AHA because the benefits of that cut of beef meet AHA heart healthy standards.
21. **Understand the USDA grading system.** USDA grading is not mandatory, but many companies pay to have the grading done to help consumers understand the difference in beef. Prime is the highest grade and is characterized by high marbling and tenderness. Choice is the next grade and is the most commonly sold grade. It has some marbling and tenderness varies. Select is lowest grade and applies to very lean cuts of beef. The grading system does not determine the overall quality of the meat, just the tenderness and amount of fat content.
22. **Be sure the meat purchased has a sell by date.** Sell by dates can help you determine quality and how the meat should be stored. If it is close to the sell by date the meat may suffer from being frozen at this point and should probably be cooked with in a day of purchasing. If the meat is not close to the sell by date, then it should freeze well.
23. **Purchase and store store beef cold, less than 40°F (4°C).** Colder temperatures help hinder bacterial growth. If the meat gets too warm bacteria can grow on the surface and into the muscle tissue. Once bacteria have grown into the muscle tissue cooking may not kill it and it will make a person ill.
24. **Cook all ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and all other beef cuts to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).** These specifications will help you cook enough to eliminate most risk of salmonella and other food poisoning.
25. **Know which cuts pose a higher risk for bacterial contamination.** According to the National Institute of Health, Salmonella may be found more from loin, rib or chuck primal cuts. E.coli may be found more from the sirloin and round areas of the cattle.
When purchasing these cuts of beef it is more important to ensure they were handled and stored properly before purchase and to handle and store them properly at home. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Understand-Cuts-of-Beef", "language": "en"} |
How to Cope With Body Dysmorphic Disorder | Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a psychological illness that causes suffering to millions, but has received little attention from the general public. BDD is a chronic mental illness related to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in which a physical flaw, minor or imagined, causes enough shame and discomfort to severely impinge on the sufferers daily functioning. You may be wondering why you cannot stop obsessing over how you look, why you can't stop looking in the mirror, or why you can't stop picking your skin. If you feel like your unceasing interest in your appearance is controlling your life and causing a great deal of misery, you might have BDD. Here's a basic guide to help you learn how to cope with the disorder.
1. **Take a cold, hard look at your beliefs related to your appearance.** It is nearly impossible to cope with BDD if you are not aware of the precise content of your obsessive thoughts. This is because if these thoughts are not examined and changed, they will carry on despite behavioral changes you are able to make.
Some common appearance related assumptions that BDD sufferers hold include:
“If people see the real me, then they will be repulsed."
“If I can see the problem, then everyone else must be noticing it too.”
"If I relax my standards, then I will let myself go."
"If I do not look perfect, then no one will ever love me."
"If I look attractive, then I will be successful in life."
"If I am ugly, then I have no value."
2. **Train your mind to make positive evaluations of yourself in social situations.** Many people coping with BDD tend to overestimate the likelihood that others will respond to their appearance in a negative manner, underestimate their ability to cope if this did occur, and discount any information which suggests that things will not be as bad as they predicted. These biases can be corrected just by knowing that they are common mistakes made.
For instance, if you are at a social gathering, spend time focusing on how few people have made negative remarks about your appearance and how positively people have responded to your presence at the event or how many times you have been complimented.
3. **Brainstorm other ways of understanding your appearance.** Even though it can be difficult, dare to play devil's advocate and challenge your own beliefs. Re-consider the way you evaluate your own looks by thinking realistically about others' opinion of you, and about how important appearance is more generally.
If you hold beliefs that your appearance dictates your value as a person, remind yourself of the many qualities that you value in others. Notice that these other qualities are not affected by appearance and that you yourself have the ability to value people aside from how they look.
4. **Focus on what you bring to the table.** Comparative thinking (i.e. "Am I more or less beautiful than __?") is one of the main ways that we develop unrealistic expectations for ourselves. By fully exploring the qualities and sparks that are uniquely "you", it will be much more difficult to focus on what you don't have.
This can be especially difficult considering the fact that many BDD sufferers receive frequent reassurance about their appearance that seems to have no impact.
5. **Make a list of your rituals and behaviors surrounding your appearance.** Without vivid clarity about it will be very difficult to intervene. Before making any behavioral changes, which can often be a painful process, write out the daily behaviors traceable to the disorder and the frequency with which you do them. Only list behaviors that occur so often that your daily life (social, work, school, personal maintenance) is impaired.
The most common habits that accompany BDD are:
Checking your appearance on reflective surfaces.
Checking yourself by feeling your skin with your fingers.
Cutting or fidgeting with your hair, always in attempt to perfect it.
Picking your skin to make it more smooth.
Comparing yourself against models in magazines or people in the street.
Frequently talking about your appearance with others.
Camouflaging or otherwise hiding your appearance.
6. **Familiarize yourself with your personal triggers.** Your personal triggers are situations, people, objects, and memories that cause the obsessional thoughts and behaviors that accompany BDD. By paying attention to the moments when you become taken over by intrusive thoughts and behaviors you can get a clearer sense of (1) the experiences that you may want to avoid altogether and (2) the emotional "ins" that will help you get to the roots of the fears and beliefs associated with BDD.
Be advised, you may want to gauge how you use knowledge of your triggers based on the intensity level of the disorder. If you are in the throes of BDD, either housebound or in 24/7 obsession mode, you may be too sensitive to begin exploring the roots of the problem. It will be easier to get some distance by avoiding painful triggers before getting in deep.
7. **Expose yourself to real-world situations that buck your beliefs.** There are a number of ways that you can give yourself reality checks, most of which involve doing something scary and uncomfortable, related to your BDD thoughts or behavior. This moment will then help you realize that the dreaded behavior is not as bad as you thought it was. What's more, you will see the questionable nature of your perceived defects.
For example, a girl who is concerned with a slight bulge in her stomach may be asked to go in public wearing a tight fitting t-shirt then observe how many people are actually staring at her stomach. Directly viewing the disparity between what you see and what others are doing can be a strong motivator for changing beliefs.
Please note that . That said, do not expect to expose yourself in this way without significant levels of distress. According to most psychotherapists, this degree and type of distress is a necessary though uncomfortable part of the healing process.
8. **Keep a stable daily routine.** By having a trusty routine of things that you do, especially in the morning as you are starting your day, you spare yourself the anxiety of having to make small choices about what must be done. Remember that there is comfort to be garnered from taking good care of the little things, like watering the plants right after enjoying your morning cup of coffee.
9. **Ramp up your self care.** There are a number of things you can do to improve your relationship with yourself during coping. The following are all things that will help you show yourself that you care, and are taking an active interest in your own well-being:
Eat nourishing food.
Get plenty of rest.
Take up a new hobby, like gardening or cooking.
Join a reading club, or other group-oriented activity.
10. **Introduce more activity into your life.** Physical activity and exercise can help manage many BDD symptoms, such as depression, stress and anxiety. Consider walking, jogging, swimming, gardening, or taking up another form of physical activity you enjoy.
11. **Keep a journal.** A journal can be a reliable way to express fear, anger, and other emotions. By keeping track of the ebbs and flows of your feelings, you are learning more about yourself and the patterns you wish to overcome.
12. **Share your story with a community of other sufferers and close friends and family.** Because shame, disgust, and anxiety are the emotional components common with BDD, isolation can be one of the biggest barriers to coping.
If you are opening up to people in your life, you may find that fair-weather friends are not adequate support systems, but those who accept you unconditionally will help you learn to treat yourself in a similar manner. Think deeply about who you feel most yourself around, not just people whose praise you find satisfying, before sharing.
Be aware that the purpose of finding a community of people with common problems will not be helpful if it is used as a platform to indulge members' insecurities and affirm dissatisfaction with appearance. The idea is to share similar feelings, not evaluations, judgments, or other thoughts. If you notice people accidentally sharing their favorite ways to judge themselves rather than coping skills, you may want to reconsider joining that community.
13. **Find out about the deep social issues underlying BDD.** Sure, BDD is suffered by individual people, but why here? Why now? The large emphasis on body shape, size, and features does not crop up without a social context for these emphases. Gaining insight into why and how these standards developed can provide a great degree of comfort, further chipping away at the self-blame, doubt, and shame that comes from internalizing these problems as personal obsessions. Literature on BDD can be found here: [1].
This is an advanced coping skill that is well-suited to those who are already curious about the workings of the social world. Be aware that in some cases, acknowledging the problem's existence in society over and above its existence in oneself may lead to further denial of one's own symptoms.
14. **Seek out a mental help specialist.** A therapist who is familiar with BDD, or treats disorders that are similar (OCD, eating disorders, etc) can help you overcome symptoms of BDD, greatly amplifying the coping skills you foster on your own. You can find lists of clinics and therapists at websites like [2].
It is very likely that your therapist will prescribe a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and medication. SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed pharmaceutical drug for BDD. SSRIs are also used to treat depression, anxiety, and obessive-compulsive disorder. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Cope-With-Body-Dysmorphic-Disorder", "language": "en"} |
How to Make Color Run Powder | The tradition of using colored powder as part of a celebration began with the Indian Holi festival. Today, though, the powder is used all around the world for everything from marathons to gender reveals. If you've ever wondered how to make colored powder at home, you're in luck—as long as you set aside enough time for the powder to dry, the process is really easy. No matter the occasion, this powder is sure to provide you with tons of colorful fun!
1. **Mix cornstarch and water in a large mixing bowl.** Measure 1 cup (125 g) of cornstarch and pour it into a bowl, then slowly add ⁄3–⁄2 cup (79–118 mL) of water and stir the mixture together with a spoon. Once it's all combined, you should have a thick paste that drips slowly when you lift the spoon out of the bowl.
Cornstarch may be labeled as cornflour in some places, including the UK.
If you don't have cornstarch or cornflour, you can substitute rice flour, which you can find at many Asian markets if your local grocery store doesn't carry it.
2. **Mix in 1 fl oz (30 mL) of icing dye.** Since you want the colorful powder to have a vibrant shade, plan to use a whole bottle of icing dye for each batch you make. Squeeze in the entire bottle, then stir everything until it's fully combined.
You may want to put on gloves to protect your hands from the rich dye.
Icing dye is a liquid gel that's thicker and more concentrated than traditional food coloring.
If you want to create your own custom-colored powder, try mixing different dyes together, as long as they add up to 1 fl oz (30 mL). For instance, you could mix 1/3 of a bottle of green dye and 2/3 of a bottle of blue dye to make a pretty teal shade.
3. **Let the colored cornstarch dry in the mixing bowl for 2 days.** Place the mixing bowl somewhere out-of-the-way where it won't be disturbed, such as a windowsill in your kitchen or on top of your fridge. Then, leave it there for 2 days, or until the surface is cracked and dry.
If you live somewhere with very low humidity, it might only take 1 day for it to dry, but plan on leaving it out for 2 days to be sure. In very humid conditions, you might even need 3 days.
4. **Preheat your oven to the hottest temperature once the powder is dry.** When your powdered cornstarch has deep cracks running all across the surface, you can place it in the oven to finish drying it. Start by turning your oven to the highest temperature it will go for about 15 minutes.
The oven can preheat while you're transferring the powder to the baking sheet.
5. **Spread the colored chalk powder on a baking sheet.** The dried powder will likely be hard to the touch, so use a fork break it into chunks, then pour the chunks of powder onto a baking sheet. Try to spread it in a thin, even layer, breaking up the chunks as needed.
It may help to use a rubber spatula to spread the powder.
A 9 in × 13 in (23 cm × 33 cm) or larger pan will be perfect for this.
6. **Turn off the oven and put the powder in for 5 minutes.** You don't want the powder to scorch, so turn off the oven once it's been heating for about 15 minutes. Then, place the baking sheet into the oven and leave it in there for about 5 minutes. This will remove any moisture that might be left in the powder.
Keep a close eye on the powder and pull it out if it starts to smell toasty.
7. **Transfer the powder to a blender and pulse it for 30 seconds.** Use an oven mitt to remove the powder from the oven, then carefully shake it into the bowl on your blender. Pulse the powder for about 15-30 seconds, or until you have a fine, chalky powder.
You can use a food processor instead, if you prefer.
8. **Store the powder in resealable plastic bags.** The fine, highly-pigmented color run powder is likely to make a mess if you leave it out, so transfer each color to its own bag and seal it tightly until you need it. Keep it in a cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet, since humidity could cause the powder to become clumpy.
9. **Invite friends to your colorful celebration.** You can use color run powder for any kind of celebration, but it will be the most fun if you have a group of friends to enjoy it with! Try making color run powder the next time you're celebrating a gender reveal, field day, or theme party. You can even match the powder to your favorite team's colors for a unique game-day party!
For a traditional use of color run powder, celebrate the Indian festival of Holi, which marks the end of winter and beginning of spring. In India, these festivities usually take place city-wide, but you can have your own celebration if your town doesn't participate.
10. **Wear old clothes or matching T-shirts.** Even if you do laundry right after you play with your color run powder, there's a chance the rich dye could stain your clothes and shoes. It's best to change into something that you don't mind if it gets stained, like the clothes and shoes you normally wear to work around the house or yard.
If you want to preserve the color on your shirts, you might give everyone a plain white T-shirt or a shirt with a logo marking your special occasion.
Bring an old towel or blanket if you'll need to get in the car after the color fun.
11. **Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.** Color run powder is non-toxic and won't hurt you if it gets in your eyes. However, it can be a little uncomfortable to get anything in your eyes, so to prevent that, it's a good idea to put everyone in safety glasses.
You might also want to loosely tie a bandana over your face to keep from breathing in any of the powder.
Consider putting your phone or camera in a waterproof bag to protect it from the powder.
12. **Toss handfuls of the powder at each other, but aim low.** The real fun of color powder comes from coating your friends in a variety of different colors, so don't be afraid to get messy! However, be considerate and don't throw the powder directly at people's faces. It's non-toxic, but it could still be uncomfortable if someone breathes in the powder or gets it in their eyes.
You can also hold the powder in your hand and blow it for a more gentle puff of color. However, be careful not to inhale or you'll breathe in the cornstarch!
13. **Wash your clothes immediately in cold water if you don't want to keep the color.** There's no guarantee that all of the color will come out of the clothes, but the best chance of restoring their original appearance is to wash them as soon as possible after you finish playing with the powder. It can help to have clothes ready ahead of time for each person to change into so you can start a load of laundry right away.
Blot shoes with a rag dampened with cold or cool water.
14. **Preserve the color by spraying the clothes with vinegar.** If you want to keep your color run shirts as a memento, fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and soak the clothes. The colors will bleed somewhat, but the vinegar will also cause them to set into the fabric. Lay the shirt flat to dry. Once it's dry, turn it inside-out, iron it, then put it in the dryer on high heat for about 10 minutes. When you're finished, wash and dry the shirt again according to the care tag.
After you do this, the shirt should be safe to include with your regular laundry, as long as you wash it in cold water. The color may fade with repeated washings, but should still be visible. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Color-Run-Powder", "language": "en"} |
How to Fertilize Soil With Eggshells | Eggs are delicious and nutritious. Most people throw away the shells, which is the best part—for plants at least. Instead of throwing away this resource, consider using it to improve the soil in your garden, as eggshells are a good source of calcium for your plants, and can help make a great fertilizer. You can easily add minerals and nutrients to soil using crushed eggshells or eggshell tea. You can also use eggshells as seed starters to ensure that your seedlings get off to a good start.
1. **Save your egg shells.** When you use eggs in a meal or for a recipe, save the shells. Crack open your raw eggs, rinse the shells with warm water, and let them dry in a sunny pot. Run your finger around the inside of the shell when washing it to remove any residue, but try to preserve the membrane. Most of the nutrients are in this.
For best results, plan on using 4 to 5 eggs for each plant you want to fertilize.
2. **Crush the eggshells or grind them into a fine powder.** You can crush them into flakes using your hands or a food processor. You can also grind them into a powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder instead. It is possible to use whole eggshells in your soil, but they will decompose much faster if they are crushed or ground into powder.
To make the crushing process easier, bake the eggshells at 350 degrees until the start to lightly brown before grinding.
3. **Add a few teaspoons of powdered eggshell into the hole if you are planting a new flower, herb, or vegetable.** Once you have some eggshells in the hole, put the plant inside, and pat the soil around it. Putting eggshells directly into the hole with the plant ensures that the plant will get the nutrients from the decomposing eggshells.
4. **Add crushed eggshells around the base of your plant.** You do not need to cover the eggshells with soil. As they decompose, they will leach calcium and other nutrients into the soil. This will help your plants grow into strong, healthy plants.
5. **Mix crushed eggshells directly into potting soil.** When you buy plants from the nursery, you will need to transplant them outside, or into a new pot. Before you do this, consider mixing a handful of crushed eggshells into the soil. Overtime, the eggshells will leach their nutrients into the soil, and help the young plants grow into healthy, strong plants.
If you aren't able to use eggshells right away, you can also crush them and add them to your compost bin.
6. **Crack open some raw eggs, rinse them with warm water, and let them dry in a sunny spot.** When rinsing the shell, run your finger around the inside of the shell to get rid of any residue. Try to leave the membrane. Most of the nutrients are in this.
Save the yolks and whites for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
7. **Loosely crush the eggshells.** You can use your hands, a coffee grinder, or even a food processor. Crushing the eggshells will make it easier to measure them out.
8. **Place at least 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of crushed eggshells into a large pot.** This will be enough to brew 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of eggshell tea.
Consider adding 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of Epsom salt for extra nutrition. Epsom salt is high in magnesium and sulfate, both of which are beneficial to plants.
9. **Fill the pot with water and bring it to a boil for a few minutes.** You need 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water for every 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of crushed eggshells. Boiling the water will give the eggshells a "jump start" and help them to start releasing their nutrients into the water faster.
10. **Remove the pot from heat, and let the eggshells steep, covered, for at least 24 hours.** You can even let the eggshells steep for a few days. During this time, the eggshells will release their nutrients into the water.
11. **Strain the water into a jar, and leave it outside overnight.** This will allow the water reach outdoor temperatures, and lessen the risk of "shocking" the plants by being too hot or too cold. Some gardens find that this also helps the plants absorb the nutrients better.
When leaving the jar outside, make sure that it is covered, and in a shady spot, out of sunlight.
12. **Water your plants with the diluted eggshell tea.** For best results, use the eggshell tea once a month. The water will be infused with calcium and other nutrients, and give your plants a growing boost. Store any leftover water in a cool, dry place.
13. **Crack open a raw egg and remove the yolk and white.** You can simply crack the egg in half, but you won't have much space to plant the seeds in. Instead, consider cracking the egg near the upper third with a spoon. Save the egg yolk and white for eating later.
Don't use hardboiled eggs, as the shells would be brittle. If you already cooked the egg, save the water you cooked it in, let it cool, and use it to water your plants instead.
Don't use colored or painted eggs (such as Easter eggs). The pigments in paints and markers contain dyes that can harm the delicate seedlings.
14. **Clean the shell, inside and out, using warm water, then set it down in the sun the dry.** When rinsing the shell, be sure to run your finger around the inside of the shell to remove any residue.
15. **Consider poking a small drainage hole in the bottom of the shell using a pin or thumb tack.** It is easiest if you do this from the inside. It is not absolutely necessary, but it will help prevent over-watering, which can kill a young plant.
16. **Fill the eggshell with damp, seed-starting soil.** If you are having trouble getting the soil into the eggshell, roll up a piece of paper into a cone, and use it to funnel the soil into the shell instead. You can also use a small spoon instead.
17. **Sprinkle 2 to 3 seeds on top and lightly cover them with more soil.** Smaller plants, such as flowers and herbs, work best when starting in eggshells. Larger vegetables, such as beans, cucumber, and squash can work, but they will need to be moved outside 1 week after they sprout.
Consider easy-to-grow herbs, such as: basil, dill, and parsley. Marigolds are great for starting in eggshells, and they are edible too.
18. **Place the egg in a holder and place it on a sunny windowsill where it won't be disturbed.** The holder can be as simple as an egg carton to as fancy as an egg holder. If you are using an egg carton, consider lining it with plastic first so that it doesn't get soggy from the draining water.
19. **Water the seeds, and wait for them to grow.** Depending on what type of seed you planted, you might see the seedling emerge in less than a week. When watering the seedlings, consider using a spray bottle instead of a watering can; it will be a lot more gentle on the delicate, young plants.
Depending on how dry it is in your home, you may need to water the seeds every day to every few days.
Consider rotating the eggshell every few days. This will allow the plants to get equal amounts of sunlight and grow more evenly.
You may need to pull out the smaller/weaker seedlings so that each eggshell has one plant growing in it. This will ensure that the young seedlings enough space to grow in.
20. **Transplant the eggshell outside when the seedling has 1 to 2 sets of true leaves.** Before you plant the egg in the soil, crush it slightly in your hand—enough to break the shell but not so much that the soil loses its shape. This will break the shell up a little and allow the roots to poke through.
Eggshells are biodegradable. As they decompose, they will release nutrients and calcium into the soil, which will help the young plant grow.
21. **Finished.** | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Fertilize-Soil-With-Eggshells", "language": "en"} |
How to Make a Deadpool Costume | Want to make a Deadpool costume and be your favorite Marvel superhero for a day? There are plenty of Deadpool costumes on the market, but more often than not they're pretty expensive. Luckily, you can make your own Deadpool costume and mask to save some money and have some fun!
1. **Wrap a red cotton fabric around your head and mark the seam.** Take your piece of fabric and wrap it around your head until it fits snugly. Now, while holding it snug, mark off a small vertical line where the 2 ends of the fabric overlap.
Purchase red cotton fabric from crafts stores—just make sure the color matches your skin suit! You can also use a red pillowcase or t-shirt.
Cotton is the comfortable fabric choice, but don't be afraid to use a different kind. Just make sure you can tolerate it as mask material.
2. **Mark off a straight cutline down the fabric.** Using the overlap mark as a guide, draw a vertical line across the fabric where the 2 ends overlap. This is where you need to cut to remove the excess fabric.
Use a straight wooden ruler to guide your vertical line.
3. **Cut off the excess portion of fabric.** Use a pair of scissors to cut along the vertical line and remove the excess fabric. Use a ruler to guide your cutting if it makes things easier!
Never use scissors without the help of an adult.
4. **Create 2 hems at each end of the fabric.** Use a glue gun to apply a small line of glue down one of the vertical portions of the fabric about ⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) from the edge. Now, fold the ⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) of fabric over the glue and press it down firmly for about a minute until it dries in place.
Repeat the above process for the other vertical edge of the fabric.
Purchase a glue gun from a crafts or big-box store.
5. **Glue both of the hems together.** Lay the fabric onto a flat surface with both hems facing upward. Now, fold one side across half of the fabric so that the hem side faces downward. Apply a line of glue along the back of the hem and fold the opposing side across the fabric so that the front hem side touches the glue on the back of the other hem. Press down on them for about 1 minute until the glue dries.
After drying, your fabric should make a long sleeve.
6. **Pull the sleeve over your face and tie off the excess fabric.** After pulling the sleeve over your head, the fabric should fit tightly but comfortably around it. Grab the top of your head where the excess fabric extends and wrap an elastic band over it.
Fold the sides of the excess fabric underneath the top portion before you tie your elastic.
7. **Put your sleeve over a foam head and glue the excess fabric.** With the sleeve pulled over the head, remove the elastic and apply a line of glue underneath each of the folded side pieces. Now, press the side pieces down onto the glue and hold them in place for about 1 minute until the glue dries.
After this step, the excess fabric should be barely noticeable when looking at your mask from the front.
8. **Cut out 2 eye pieces from a plastic mask.** Don't worry about the color—it's going to be covered with leather. Start by drawing from the bridge of the nose down to the just below the cheekbone. Now, draw from the temple down to the same point below the cheekbone. Bring your marker back up to the bridge of the nose and draw to the top of the forehead. Finally, draw from the temple—on a slight angle—up to the top of the forehead. Use a pair of scissors to cut off the eyepiece using your cutline as a guide.
Repeat this process for both eyepieces.
Use a marker to create the eyepiece outline. For black face masks, use a white marker. If your face mask is white, use a black marker.
9. **Cut 2 triangles from a piece of cardboard.** Each Deadpool eyepiece has a pointed top part that can be created using cardboard triangles. Start by drawing the triangles onto a piece of cardboard. Make sure each is about 5 inches (13 cm) tall and 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide. Now, cut them out with a pair of scissors.
Adjust the measurements as you see fit—if you think taller triangles look cooler, go for it!
10. **Glue the triangles onto the top of the eyeholes.** Apply a thin horizontal line of glue directly above each eyehole. Now, press down the bottom of each triangle onto these lines. After gluing the triangles above the eyeholes, their tips should point about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) or more from the top of the eyepieces (not the eyeholes).
After applying the glue, hold the triangles onto the eyepieces with your thumbs for about 3 minutes.
11. **Cut eyeholes into bicast leather with a precision knife.** Each eyepiece needs to be covered with a piece of leather. Make sure each piece of leather extends 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) past the perimeter of the eyepiece. Start by placing the leather over the eyepieces and poking a hole in each eyehole using your precision knife. Then, cut out the leather that's inside the perimeter of the eyeholes so you'll be able to see through them. When you're finished, apply a small amount of glue around the outside perimeter of each eyehole and press down the excess leather over it.
Buy bicast leather (also known as PU leather) from crafts and fabric stores.
12. **Glue the remaining loose black leather material to the eyepieces.** Aside from the perimeter around the eyeholes, the rest of the eyepieces are not connected to the leather. Apply small lines of glue onto the eyepieces underneath the remaining loose pieces of leather. Afterward, press the fabric down and hold it for 2 to 3 minutes until dry.
Use thin lines of glue to prevent the leather from bulging from the eyepieces.
13. **Remove the remaining black leather and glue the excess fabric to the back.** Use a pair of scissors to cut off the excess fabric that extends past the perimeter of your eyepieces. Now, apply a thin line of glue around the perimeter of the back side of the eyepieces. Press down any excess fabric you couldn't cut off over this glue.
After applying the excess fabric to the glue on the back of the eyepieces, place thin duct tape over them to hold them in place and help them dry.
14. **Attach white sheer fabric to the back of your eyeholes.** Make sure you can see through the fabric before attaching it! Cut 2 small squares of white sheer fabric small enough to cover your eyeholes and extend onto the back of the mask. Now, tape the squares to the back of the mask over the eyeholes.
Purchase white sheer fabric from arts and crafts stores or online suppliers.
15. **Cut out eye holes in your red fabric.** While wearing your red fabric, hold each eyepiece over your eye and sketch an outline around it. Now, remove these portions with a pair of scissors.
Don't worry if the holes are too big, as they will be behind the eyepieces.
Use a pencil for outlines and markings so you don't ruin your mask!
16. **Glue your eyepieces to your mask.** Apply a small amount of glue to the perimeter on the back of each eyepiece. Now, press each one onto your mask while wearing it and hold them in place for 2 to 3 minutes until the glue dries.
Be sure to align your eyepieces over your face before applying any glue to make sure you can see properly.
17. **Put on a red skin suit that doesn't cover your face.** You can purchase a red skin suit from costume stores or online suppliers. Make sure it's the same (or similar) shade of red as your fabric. Try to find a suit with a thin material that is easy to draw on so your marker pops out.
Swap out a red skin suit with red leggings and a red collared jacket if that's more comfortable. However, these might be harder to draw onto.
18. **Paint on the black areas of Deadpool's costume.** Start by creating the black outlines on your red suit with a black marker using a Deadpool picture as a guide. Don't worry about getting everything exact—just do your best! The most important parts are the shoulder guards and vertical chest guards along the sides of your ribs. Now, fill these outlines in using black paint.
Either have a friend do this step while you wear your skin suit or lay down the suit onto a flat surface and do it yourself. Ideally, have a friend do it—painting your suit while it's on you will result in the best final product.
19. **Wear some fingerless black gloves and black tactical boots.** Head to a big-box supplier and look for your gloves and boots. Leather motorcycle boots look the best, as do any kind of tactical boots with a long shaft.
If it's not comfortable, don't buy it! Even if you find boots that look cool, remember that you're going to have to wear them!
20. **Wear a black belt and put your weapons in it.** Start by buying a black belt with as many holsters and hooks as possible. Afterward, buy 2 toy katanas, 2 toy sai blades and 1 toy handgun. These 5 weapons are Deadpool's main blades, but get creative if you want! Remember that Deadpool's character is known to be able to use any weapon in the world. After buying your weapons from a toy store, attach them to your belt or place them between your belt and body.
Any kind of ninja weapons, toy grenades, and guns pair well with the costume
Try pairing your costume with kunai, which are small ninja knives. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Deadpool-Costume", "language": "en"} |
Knuckle Cracking: How to Do It & Does It Cause Arthritis? | Cracking your knuckles is a great way to relieve tension in your fingers, keep your hands busy, or annoy your friend with the gross sound of your fingers snapping. But what’s the best way to do it? Is it actually bad for your joints, or are you all clear to do this whenever you want? In this article, we’ll answer all of those questions and more! Read on to learn everything you’d ever want to know about knuckle cracking.
1. **Crack all your knuckles by squeezing your fist.** Make a fist with your thumb on top. Then, wrap your other hand around your knuckles and squeeze all of your knuckles with the same amount of moderate pressure. You should hear entire rows of knuckles cracking.
You can also rotate your hand and then push down on your top knuckles, if you’d like to catch any knuckles you missed with the first squeeze.
You can also just concentrate the pressure on 1-2 fingers. This way, you’ll only crack the section of knuckles where you want relief.
2. **Try the old “tough guy” interlocking fingers move.** Interlock all of your fingers with your palms facing down. Then, turn your palms down, out and away from you while stretching your arms out in front. Keep your fingers locked together the whole time and keep stretching out until you feel your knuckles crack.
You’ll see this one in movies whenever some muscular goon is about to lay some whoop down. We don’t know the origin of the trope, but it’s probably the “coolest” way to crack your knuckles!
3. **Hold your fingers out to push on knuckles individually.** If you’ve got a specific finger or knuckle you want to pop, hold your fingers out together. Brace your fingers with the palm of your other hand and gently press on the knuckle you want to pop. That force should generate an immediate crack.
The bottom knuckles should be easiest to crack, but the top knuckles can crack, too.
4. **Use the praying hands method to crack your lower knuckles.** Put your hands together like you're clapping or praying. Your fingers and palms should be touching, mirroring each other. Then, move your palms apart slowly but keep your fingers pressing together. Press them harder and harder together while moving your palms upward until your knuckles crack.
5. **Try the Vulcan technique to crack individual fingers.** Put your pinky and ring finger together. Then, put your middle and index fingers together so there’s a gap between your ring and middle fingers (like a Vulcan from Star Trek). Slide whatever finger you want to crack in between the Vulcan sign and grip the finger gently at its bottom joint. Slowly rock the finger back and forth until it cracks.
Repeat this process on any of your other fingers to crack them as needed.
6. **Flex your hands to crack your knuckles without even touching them.** You just stiffen your fingers and slowly try to bend them forward; if your knuckles are particularly stiff, this can work. This won’t always work though, just FYI.
And even fewer people can crack the same finger immediately after they have already popped it. This may not be the case for you, but if you're having problems, consider waiting 5-10 minutes and crack again.
7. **Crack your thumb by folding it on your palm and pressing on it.** Stick your fingers out like you’re waving hello to someone. Then, tuck your thumb against the center of your palm. Apply light pressure to your thumb by pressing the joints into your hand until they crack.
8. **Learn why your knuckles crack when they bend at an angle.** There’s fluid in between every joint in your body called synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates your joints, but pressure can build up in your joints (this is the feeling that makes you want to crack them in the first place). When you crack your knuckles, you’re relieving the gas bubbles inside of the joint.
9. **Know that you probably aren’t raising your risk for arthritis.** There’s a popular old wives’ tale out there that cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis. We’ve got good news for you knuckle-cracking fans out there—that doesn’t seem to be the case. There have been a ton of studies on this, and arthritis doesn’t appear to be a risk here.
10. **Be careful about chronic cracking if you want to maintain grip strength.** While you aren’t at risk of arthritis, there does seem to be some evidence that habitual knuckle-cracking can lead to a weaker grip over time. The impacts don’t appear to be extreme, and you can get better with moderate treatment, but it’s something to keep in mind.
If you only crack your knuckles every now and then, you’re probably going be fine.
11. **Wait for 15 minutes or so between cracks.** Once you have cracked your knuckles, it will take some time for the gas bubbles to redevelop in your synovial fluid. This prevents you from cracking them again right away. Don’t repeatedly try to crack your knuckles—you’ll just irritate your joints. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Crack-Your-Knuckles", "language": "en"} |
How to Grow Rhubarb from Seed | Growing rhubarb from a seed takes considerably more time than growing it from a crown or cutting, but it can be a cheaper and easier way to start a large crop. In cool climates you can grow rhubarb as a perennial, which can be harvested year after year, or you can grow it as an annual, which is recommended in warmer areas.
1. **Soak your seeds in water.** Rhubarb seeds are covered in a paper-like shell. Soaking the seeds for 1-2 hours before planting will prepare them for germination so that they begin rooting sooner.
2. **Create a potting soil mix.** Mix equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and compost to make your own basic potting mix.
Rhubarb does best in moderately acidic soil (pH 6.0 to 6.8). You can use a pH test kit or other methods to test the soil acidity.
3. **Place the rhubarb seeds into pots.** Use a small, 2-3 inch (5-8 cm) pot or starter tray with drainage holes on the bottom. Fill the pots or trays with your soil mixture. Using your finger, dig a small hole about ½ inch (1.2 cm) deep. Place 2 seeds in the hole, then cover them with dirt and water them.
Use peat pots or cow pots to make transplanting easier.
Keep the soil evenly moist, watering when necessary. Do not overwater, as this can drown the seeds.
4. **Keep the seeds warm.** If the room temperature is below 70 °F (21.1 °C) (21 C), you can use a heating table or heating mat to speed the process.
5. **Grow rhubarb as a perennial if you live in zones 1-8.** If you live in a state closer to the central or northern areas of the United States, such as Maine, North Dakota, or Indiana, it’s best to grow your rhubarb perennially.
6. **Cover your planted seeds 8-10 weeks before the final frost.** Your growing seedlings need to be protected from the cold temperatures, so make sure that you put a protective cover overtop of them in this early stage while they’re fragile. Do this at least two months before your area’s estimated final frost of the year.
7. **Harden the plants off before transplanting them.** Harden off your plants by taking them outside little by little to get used to the sun, rain, and cold before exposing them to the elements permanently.
8. **Transplant the plants to the garden 2 weeks before the last frost.** The plants should be about 4 inches tall at this point, so they’re ready to be transplanted. Remove the plants from their pot. Carefully tip the pots upside down to remove the plant and root ball. Dig a hole twice as wide and at least as deep as the pot your rhubarb is in.
If the plant doesn’t come out with a little squeeze to the sides of the pot, you can use a butter knife to cut around the soil. It also helps to water the plants about an hour before your remove them from their pots.
If you used a peat pot or a cow pot you can simply place the pot with the plant into the soil.
9. **Transport the plants to a shaded area.** Prepare a suitable part of the garden. Choose somewhere cool that the rhubarb can happily grow at its own pace. Clear out enough space in the ground so that you can plant the roots 36-48 inches (90-120 cm) apart. Planting any closer together will crowd the plants.
In warmer climates it is important to find shade for your plants during hotter months. You can plant the rhubarb by tall shade plants (tomatoes, pole lima beans), or create shade with a shade cloth.
10. **Use mulch to evenly distribute moisture.** In order to allow your plants to thrive, you’ll need to keep them consistently and evenly moist. They’ll die if the sun dries their roots out. Mulching will keep the rhubarb roots properly cool and moist.
11. **Grow as an annual if you live in zone 9 or higher.** Rhubarb can grow perennially in most areas of the U.S., but places like southern California, Texas, and Florida may only be able to grow rhubarb annually.
12. **Start your seeds in August in a shady location.** Rhubarb doesn’t do well in intense heat, so once you’ve soaked the seeds and planted them in a soil-filled pot, you’ll need to find a shady area for them. Either put the pot in a shaded spot outdoors or keep the pot indoors. This way, the seeds will stay healthy during hotter months as they’re growing into plants.
13. **Transplant the plants to the garden once they’re 4 inches (10.2 cm) tall.** Transplant the plants to the garden after about 30 days in the pot. At this point, they should be about 4 inches tall. Carefully tip the pots upside down until the plant and root ball slide out. Dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the plant. Plant the root balls as deep as they were in their pots.
To get the plants out of the pot, it helps if you water them an hour or so beforehand. If the root ball doesn’t come out with a little squeeze to the sides of the pot, you can use a butter knife to cut around the soil.
If you used a peat pot or a cow pot you can simply place the pot with the plant into the soil.
To avoid overcrowding the plants, clear out enough space in the ground so that you can plant the seeds 36-48 inches (90-120 cm) apart.
Consider planting the rhubarb on a raised bed or in a hillside to avoid drainage issues.
14. **Water your plants regularly.** It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, so keep a close eye on your plants in the summer for signs of withering, yellowing, or dry soil. For best results, water your plants in the morning.
Be careful not to overwater the plants, as they are susceptible to root rot. To avoid this, you can plant rhubarb on a hillside or on raised beds.
15. **Consider growing rhubarb from a crown while you wait.** Because a rhubarb crop can take several years to become established, you might want to grow a couple of plants from a crown while your seeds grow, mature, and become harvestable.
16. **Harvest perennial plants a few stalks at a time.** Wait at least two years until you start harvesting your rhubarb so that the plant can become established. Pull off the stalks at soil-level. To keep the plant healthy, only take a few stalks at a time.
Only eat the stalks -- rhubarb leaves are toxic!
17. **Harvest your annual rhubarb between March and May.** Areas that grow rhubarb annually tend to have severely hot summer temperatures. Make sure to harvest your rhubarb in the late spring before the heat has a chance to kill the crop. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Rhubarb-from-Seed", "language": "en"} |
How to Clear Dark Knuckles | Dark skin on the knuckles can be frustrating to treat. Even though common knowledge suggests that washing your hands more frequently or using bleaching products could help, these can actually irritate the skin and make the problem worse. To clear dark knuckles naturally, try exfoliating, moisturizing, and protecting knuckles from the sun. Add vitamin C, kojic acid, niacinamide, or ellagic acid for an extra boost. If none of these solutions work after a couple of months, talk to a doctor about prescription treatments.
1. **Exfoliate your skin daily.** To create a homemade exfoliating scrub, mix equal parts of sugar and olive oil. Rub the mixture in circles over your knuckles for about 5 minutes. Rinse the mixture off with soap and water. Once your skin has lightened, exfoliate once a week.
You can also use an exfoliating scrub, available at pharmacies or Amazon have a variety to choose from here.
2. **Apply moisturizer and sunscreen every day.** While moisturizer and sunscreen can't lighten your skin, they can help maintain an even skin tone and prevent damage. When used in combination with other treatments, moisturizer and sunscreen can help keep your knuckles light and smooth.
Amazon has sunscreens specifically for hands here, and hand moisturizer here.
Sunscreen can also help prevent additional darkening.
Try to stay out of the sun or cover up as much as possible to help prevent your knuckles from darkening more.
3. **Avoid washing your hands too much or using bleach.** You may have heard that dark knuckles are caused by dirt, and can be cleaned by scrubbing your hands often or using a cream containing bleach. This actually has the opposite effect most of the time, as washing your hands too much or using abrasive products can damage your skin and make the knuckles look darker.
4. **Make a paste of baking soda and lemon juice for a vitamin-rich, homemade solution.** Mix together equal parts of lemon juice and baking soda to create a thick paste. Spread the paste over your knuckles and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Repeat this process every day for a month.
If the paste is too thick to spread, add more lemon juice. If it is too watery, add more baking soda.
Always moisturize after using lemon juice on the skin.
5. **Use a cream with kojic acid or soy to lighten skin.** Kojic acid is a naturally-occurring ingredient in soy. Over time, kojic acid can lighten melasma, freckles and brown spots. Apply cream with kojic acid in a thick layer over your knuckles 1-2 times a day. Amazon has a variety of creams with kojic acid available here. One in particular with great reviews is EnaSkin Corrector.
Kojic acid in its natural state is unstable and becomes less effective when exposed to light and air. Many creams use kojic dipalmitate instead, which is also an effective treatment.
6. **Find a product containing niacinamide for a gentle treatment.** Niacinamide is an ingredient that helps reduce dark spots, fine lines, and inflammatory skin conditions. It is also generally not very irritating. If you do experience irritation, combine niacinamide with moisturizer. The irritation should go away as you keep using niacinamide. Use niacinamide cream in a thin layer on your knuckles once a day.
For an even more effective solution, find a product with both niacinamide and vitamin C.
Find a variety of niacinamide creams on Amazon here and some that combine niacinamide with vitamin c here.
7. **Add some ellagic acid to your skincare routine for more antioxidants.** Ellagic acid is a natural ingredient found in red berries like strawberries and cherries. It stops an enzyme that produces melanin. Find a cream with ellagic acid to lighten dark spots. Rub it into your knuckles once a day after washing your hands.
Ellagic acid can also help protect against UV rays.
8. **Use a cream with lignin peroxidase for a subtle lightening effect.** Lignin peroxidase is a fairly new product that seems to be a gentle way to reduce dark spots. Use the cream 2 times a day, only on the dark spots, and avoid sun exposure. Over the course of several months, you may notice significant lightening of dark spots.
9. **Take vitamin B12 supplements if you don't get enough from your diet.** A B12 deficiency can cause the joints, including knuckles, to darken. If you recently transitioned to a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may have a B12 deficiency. Try taking 1 capsule (around 500 mcg) of B12 a day to lighten your knuckles.
Beef, fish, eggs, and dairy all contain naturally high amounts of B12.
10. **See a dermatologist if home treatments don't work to lighten your knuckles.** The dark spots could be a sign of an underlying condition, or you might simply need a stronger lightening product. Your dermatologist will be able to make a recommendation based on your case.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any products that you have been using and any medicines you take.
11. **Apply prescription lightening cream 1-2 times a day as recommended by your doctor.** Powerful lightening creams are best applied using a cotton bud so that they don't damage the skin on your fingertips. Spread a thin layer of the cream over your knuckles using a cotton bud.
Avoid touching the skin of your knuckles for a few hours after applying the cream.
Use sunscreen in addition to prescription lightening creams. Using moisturizer and sunscreen helps ease irritation.
These creams might contain ingredients like hydroquinone, kojic acid, or azelaic acid.
12. **Ask if laser skin lightening treatment is right for you.** Plastic surgeons can remove dark skin patches using laser treatment. Laser treatment usually takes 30-60 minutes and skin takes around 2 weeks to recover. Your doctor will offer anesthetic during the procedure, but your skin may feel sore or sensitive afterward.
Laser treatment shows quick results but can be expensive and doesn't always work. In the US, expect to pay $600-2000 for the treatment, depending on the doctor and the specific laser procedure they suggest.
With some people, laser treatment temporarily lightens skin and then it reverts back to a dark color.
After laser treatment, a light tingling sensation similar to sunburn is normal. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clear-Dark-Knuckles", "language": "en"} |
How to Germinate Maple Tree Seeds | There are many species of maple tree, and no one-size-fits-all approach to growing them from seed. Some species are easy to plant, especially the ones that disperse seeds in spring or early summer. Others are so difficult and picky that even professional foresters can only reach 20–50% germination rates. If possible, identify your maple species before you begin. If you cannot, try the cold stratification method.
1. **Try this for most maple seeds.** Sugar maples, bigleaf maples, boxelder maples, Japanese maples, Norway maples, and some red maples lie dormant over the winter, then germinate as soon as temperatures warm. The cold stratification approach produces very high germination rates in these species.
All of these species drop their seeds in autumn or early winter. If your red maple trees drop their seeds in spring or early summer, try germinating them in the soil instead.
If you're going to plant the seeds outdoors, start this method 90–120 days before the last winter frost.
2. **Fill a plastic bag with growing material.** Place a handful of peat moss, vermiculite, or germination paper in a small, plastic, zip-locked bag. For best results, use sterile material and handle it with disposable gloves to avoid introducing fungus.
Tiny "snack-sized" bags work best. Larger bags trap more air with the seeds, which can lead to fungal problems.
Red maple seeds are sensitive to acidity. For this species, choose vermiculite (a neutral or basic substance) rather than peat moss (acidic).
3. **Add a little water.** Add a couple drops of water to the growing material to dampen the material slightly. If you see standing water, or if you can squeeze out water from the material, it is too wet.
4. **Apply a little fungicide (optional).** Fungicide can prevent mold from destroying your seeds, but it is not always necessary, and may damage the plant if overused. Add only in tiny quantities, following manufacturer's instructions.
Some growers rinse the seeds in very diluted bleach solutions instead.
5. **Add the seeds and close the bag.** Place your seeds in the bag. Starting from the base, roll the bag to expel most of the air. Zip it closed.
6. **Store in the refrigerator.** Now it's time to "stratify" the seeds, or expose them to temperatures that trigger germination. For most species, the ideal temperature is usually around 1–5ºC (33.8–41ºF). The crisper drawer of a refrigerator is usually about this temperature.
Ideally, use a thermometer to confirm the correct temperature. Some seeds may fail to germinate if the temperature is just a couple degrees off.
If possible, keep boxelder and Norway maple seeds at exactly 5ºC (41ºF), and red maple seeds at exactly 3ºC (37.4ºF). Other species are not as picky.
7. **Leave them for 40–120 days, checking every week or 2.** Most of these species take 90–120 days to germinate, but the bigleaf maple and a few others can sprout in as few as 40. Every week or 2, check on the bag and make adjustments as needed:
If you notice condensation, pick up the bag and gently tap it to knock the water droplets off. Lay the bag back down on the opposite side, so the wet seeds have a chance to dry off.
If the growing material has dried out, add a drop or 2 of water.
If you notice any mold or black spots, remove the affected seed and throw it away. (If the whole batch is molding, try a little fungicide.)
If the seeds have begun to sprout, remove them from the refrigerator.
8. **Plant the seeds.** Once the seeds have germinated, plant them 0.6–1.2cm (¼–½ inch) under moist soil. Most maples do well in partial shade, but look up the exact species if possible for more info on planting.
To increase the odds of survival, start the seedlings in an indoor seed tray instead. Fill the tray with 7.6–10 cm (3–4 inches) of well-draining potting soil, or an even mix of peat moss, rotted compost, vermiculite, and coarse sand. Water whenever the soil becomes completely dry. Transfer to planter pots once the second set of leaves appear.
9. **Follow this approach for mountain and Asian species.** Vine maple, striped maple, Amur maple, and paperbark maple are all tough to germinate and require extra attention. This applies to most other species native to Asia, as well as mountain maples and rocky mountain maples.
All of the seeds in this category drop in autumn or winter. Left alone in the soil, they can take years to germinate.
10. **Treat the outer hull.** Many of these species have an extremely hard hull (pericarp). Growers often "scarify" the hull to greatly improve germination rates. You may use any of these methods:
Rub the base of the seed (opposite the wing) against a nail file or sandpaper. Stop as soon as you break through the hull, barely nicking the seed coat underneath.
Soak the seeds in household strength hydrogen peroxide for several hours, then rinse well.
Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
11. **Store in a warm room.** The US Forest Service recommends keeping the seeds at 20–30ºC (68–86ºF) for 30–60 days. These seeds have not been studied as thoroughly as those of other species, so exact guidelines for each species are not available.
12. **Cold stratify for 90–180 days.** Transfer the seeds to a plastic, zip-locked bag in the refrigerator, with a small handful of peat moss or other growing material. Check back every couple weeks to look for signs of mold, drying, or sprouting. Rocky mountain seeds (Acer glabrum) usually take the full 180 days to germinate. Other species can take as few as 90, but they are unpredictable.
Don't expect every seed to sprout. Germination rates as low as 20% are common for these species.
13. **Plant the seeds.** You may start the germinated seeds on an indoor seedling tray, or plant them outside if the last frost has passed. Plant them 0.6 to 2.5cm (¼ to 1 inch) beneath the soil surface. Water occasionally but deeply, not letting the soil stay dry for long.
For more specific information, look up your exact maple species.
14. **Collect seeds in late spring or early summer.** Silver maples and some red maples (but not Japanese red maples) will drop their seeds early in the growing season. These species do not go dormant, and there is no need for any special treatments.
Some red maple trees will not drop seeds until autumn or winter; these require cold stratification. Even the groves that drop seeds early usually have alternate years of good and bad seed production.
15. **Plant immediately.** Seeds of this type will die if they dry out in storage. Plant shortly after you collect them. They should germinate quickly.
16. **Plant on moist ground.** Place the seeds on moist ground with plenty of leaf litter and other organic material. As long as the soil doesn't dry out, the seeds will require no maintenance.
17. **Plant in sun or partial shade.** Silver maples grow poorly in shade. Red maples can handle shade for 3–5 years, but may have trouble growing if they remain under the canopy past that point.
18. **Leave bare seedbeds undisturbed (optional).** If some of the seeds fail to germinate, they will often sprout the following year. These are usually a minority of the seeds, but if you haven't had much success it could be worth leaving the area untended for a second season.
If very few of the seeds germinate, and the climate has been fairly typical, the seeds most likely died in storage. Plant a new batch next year rather than waiting. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Germinate-Maple-Tree-Seeds", "language": "en"} |
How to End a Legal Guardianship | Guardianship of minor children and incapacitated adults is a court ordered legal relationship whereby a guardian has the responsibility to care for the physical and/or financial well-being of the ward. While there are some automatic reasons why a guardianship may terminate, such as a minor turning 18, often a guardianship must be terminated by a court order. In order to terminate a guardianship, a person will have to file a petition with the court, attend a court hearing, present evidence, and wait for a judge’s ruling.
1. **Demonstrate automatic termination of guardianship.** One of the simplest ways to terminate a guardianship of a child is to show that they meet one of the requirements for automatic termination of guardianship. While each state has its own laws regarding termination of guardianship, generally guardianship will terminate automatically for one of the following reasons:
Death of the ward. While the guardian may be legally required to provide a final accounting of the ward’s finances at a court hearing, the guardian’s obligations terminate with the death of the ward (the child for whom the guardian was responsible).
The ward turns 18. Once a ward turns 18 and is considered an adult, a guardianship will be terminated.
The ward is adopted, marries or enters the military service. In most states, any one of these circumstances is grounds for termination of the guardianship.
The court emancipates the ward. If the child applies for emancipation, which means he or she petitions the court to be ruled an adult, and the court grants the petition, a guardianship will be terminated.
2. **Request by parents for termination.** Parents of a minor under guardianship can seek termination of the guardianship if they want the child to live with them again. Generally, in order for a parent to successfully terminate a guardianship in court, they must show:
That they can provide the child with a stable place to live.
That they have a source of income that can provide support for the child.
That they are “fit” to resume care-giving responsibility for the child. Fitness may mean that they have successfully completed rehabilitation.
That they can provide a good home for the child.
If the guardianship is contested, the parent may have to provide evidence that the guardian is unfit to perform his or her obligations. This may include evidence that the guardian: misused the child’s funds; was abusive; or can no longer act as a guardian because of substance abuse or incapacitation.
3. **Resign as guardian.** A guardian can also request to terminate a guardianship by resigning as guardian. Generally, a guardian must petition the court before resigning. The court may terminate the guardianship, appoint another guardian, or, if no replacement is available, the child may be placed in foster care or become a dependent in juvenile court. In order to show the court that the resignation is in the best interest of the child, a guardian may argue the following:
One or both of the parents are able to resume their parental responsibilities.
The guardian can no longer serve because of age, illness or infirmity.
There was an increase in the burden of the guardianship that should have been discussed or planned for during the original appointment.
The guardian and the minor disagree with respect to the care of the minor and the conflict is detrimental to the minor.
The resignation will permit financial gain for the minor.
The resignation will not disadvantage the minor.
4. **Request for termination by ward.** In some states like California, a child 12 years old or older may also petition the court for termination of a guardianship. They will have to present evidence that shows that guardianship is not in his or her best interest. A minor may seek termination of a guardianship for the following reasons:
The minor’s biological parents can resume their parental responsibilities.
The minor was adopted.
The guardian has not made him or herself accessible to the minor.
The guardian is no longer qualified to act in the minor’s best interest because of age or infirmity.
The guardian misused the minor’s property or funds for something other than care of the minor.
5. **Hire an attorney.** If you believe that the termination of guardianship is going to be contested, it may be in your best interest to hire an experienced family law attorney. A family law attorney can:
Help you assess the strengths and weaknesses in your case.
Gather evidence to strengthen your arguments.
Write and argue persuasively for the termination of guardianship.
Know the proper forms and documents to file with the court.
6. **Seek court termination of guardianship.** In most cases, a guardianship does not terminate unless a court approves the termination, even in the case of a guardian attempting to resign. Therefore, those seeking termination of a guardianship must seek court assistance from the probate or family court where the minor child lives.
In order to determine what court has jurisdiction over the guardian case, conduct an internet search for the name of the county and state where the child resides and “termination of guardianship.” This should direct you to the appropriate court that hears termination of guardianship cases.
7. **File a Petition to terminate the guardianship.** Each county has its own rules for filing a Petition to Terminate Guardianship. As mentioned above, you can locate the appropriate court with an internet search. Often, these courts will also have form petitions for you to use. Generally, a Petition for Termination of Guardianship will include the following information:
The name of the court where the petition is being filed.
The name and contact information for the petitioner (the person filing the petition) and their relationship to the child.
The reasons the petitioner is requesting termination.
The names and contact information for any person who should be notified of the petition and hearing, including the minor, and the minor’s parents.
Whether the petition is related to an estate or guardianship of a person.
Whether there is consent among the interested parties that termination should occur.
The petition must be filed in the appropriate court, usually in person. You should check with the court to see whether there are any fees associated with the filing.
8. **Provide appropriate documentation.** As part of your petition or during the court hearing, you may be asked to provide evidence to support your request for termination. Depending on why you are seeking termination, this evidence may include:
A guardian’s final accounting of the ward’s estate to the court. You may need to provide this if the ward died, if you are a guardian of property and the ward’s assets are used up, or if you are a guardian seeking to resign your position.
Parents who want their children to live with them may need to submit a financial disclosure form to show that they are financially stable. A disclosure form may include information such as: current and previous employment information; yearly and monthly income; sources of income; a detailed list of expenses; the number of children living in the home; and an accounting of all personal assets and debts.
Parents may also present evidence of drug or alcohol rehabilitation.
To see a sample disclosure form visit: http://www.familylawselfhelpcenter.org/images/forms/misc/financial-disclosure-form-pdf-fillable.pdf.
You must serve the petition on all interested parties and provide a certificate of service to the court showing that you mailed or served the petition in accordance with local court rules.
9. **Attend court hearing.** After your petition is filed, the court will notify you of the date of the hearing to determine whether guardianship should be terminated.
The person who filed the petition must present evidence that supports termination for guardianship.
In a petition by parents, a court will want them to show that they can provide a stable place to live and a good home, that they have a source of income, that they are fit to be caregivers and that the child has an emotional bond with the parents.
If a child is 12 years old or older, the court will take into account where the child wants to live.
The judge will make his or her decision based on what he or she believes is in the best interest of the child.
If the court grant’s the petition, the judge will issue an Order Terminating Guardianship.
10. **Appeal the court’s decision.** In most states, you have the right to appeal a family law court’s decision. You must check with the court clerk to determine how long you have to file the petition, any fees that are required and the format of the petition. You will also have to show one of the following:
The court failed to make adequate findings of fact;
The court did not follow the law properly;
The court abused its discretion.
11. **Seek restoration of rights.** In the case of an adult, guardianships are meant to protect incapacitated adults’ interests. Guardians have control over the person’s financial assets and have the power to make medical decision for the person. If a previously incapacitated adult regains capacity, the adult may seek a restoration of his or her rights. While state laws regarding guardianship differ, a person seeking restoration of his or her rights may have the following rights afforded to him or her during the process of restoration:
The right to legal notice of any hearings regarding the guardianship.
The right to attend hearings.
The right to an attorney or guardian ad litem, a guardian assigned to ensure that the ward’s rights are protected during the hearing.
The right to examine witnesses.
The right to appeal.
12. **Request an attorney.** If the guardian is contesting the restoration of rights, it is in the best interest of the person seeking restoration to request that the court appoint an attorney to represent his or her interests during the hearing. Courts should appoint an attorney or another guardian to ensure that the ward’s rights are being protected.
13. **File Petition for Restoration.** Every state has its own laws regarding guardianship that also address the restoration of rights and most state’s will have sample petition forms. Generally, a Petition for Restoration will include the following information:
The name and contact information of the person filing the petition, either the ward or someone on behalf of the ward.
A sworn affidavit by a medical professional, possibly a psychiatrist, that the ward was examined and that the ward is no longer in need of guardian. The doctor will have to present evidence to support this claim.
The petition may also include a notice that must be sent to all relevant parties including the current guardian and a certificate of service, which is a document where the petitioner shows that the petition was properly sent to all relevant parties.
To view a list of state-specific guardian laws that address restoration of rights visit: http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/law_aging/2013_CassidyRestorationofRightsChart7-13.authcheckdam.pdf.
To locate the petition forms, conduct an internet search for the county and state where the ward resides and “restoration of rights” and “adult.” This should direct you to the appropriate county court. You can also call the county court where the ward resides and request the petition form.
14. **Attend hearing.** If the court finds that there is sufficient evidence in the petition to support that the ward should have his or her rights restored, the court will hold a hearing on the matter. In order to restore a person’s rights and terminate guardianship, the ward will have to show the following:
That he or she has the ability to manage his or her personal care and/or property.
The person does not need to show total control of all functions but rather that they have functional ability, even with some assistance, to handle their care and property interests.
A person can show functional ability even if they still have some mental impairment.
15. **Restore rights and terminate guardianship.** After the hearing, a court may rule that the person’s rights are restored and that the guardianship is terminated. Once a person’s rights are restored, this becomes the grounds that the court uses to terminate guardianship.
The termination of guardianship ends all rights and obligations of the guardian for the ward, except for any obligations as to financial accounting.
16. **Appeal denial of restoration.** If the court denies the petition to terminate guardianship, the ward has the right to appeal the decision. You must check with the local court to find out how long you have to final your appeal and the format of your appeal. Generally, you will need to file a notice of appeal and provide evidence and argument that shows one or the following:
The court failed to make a adequate findings of fact;
The court did not follow the law properly;
The court abused its discretion. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/End-a-Legal-Guardianship", "language": "en"} |
How to Know if You Need a Dehumidifier | A dehumidifier is commonly used to lower the indoor humidity level in the air. Maintaining a stable and low humidity is important for safeguarding your health and property. However, there are a wide variety of reasons why the humidity level in your home could be too high. Ultimately, by watching for water damage, testing air quality, and paying attention to other indications of high humidity, you’ll know if you need a dehumidifier.
1. **Identify signs of excessive ground water around your home.** Walk around your home and look for any signs that the water table is high. If you notice long-term standing water, see a water mark left on the outside of your home, or observe water marks in your basement, you may need a dehumidifier.
2. **Search for water stains throughout your home.** Take the time to inspect your home every six months or year. If you notice water stains on floors, drywall, or anywhere else, you may have a water leak or water intrusion somewhere. If this is so, you might need a dehumidifier to decrease the risk of mold or mildew growth in your home.
3. **Notice wood rot.** Wood rot inside or outside is an indication of excessive exposure to moisture. Wood rot inside your home means that you need to investigate the source of moisture. In order to mitigate any damage to the structure, you should use a dehumidifier to lower the humidity level there.
4. **Get a dehumidifier if the structure has experienced a flood of any sort.** Any time a structure is flooded due to rain, a busted pipe, or a similar event, you should get a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will not only help dry out the structure, but it will decrease the chance of mold or mildew growth.
5. **Gauge the humidity level in your home.** Testing the humidity level in your home will give you an idea of whether there is too much moisture present. If the humidity level is over 60%, you should probably use a dehumidifier to lower it. This is important, as moisture buildup due to high humidity could damage property or result in mold or mildew growth.
6. **Watch for condensation on the inside of your windows.** Condensation is when water droplets accumulate on a cool or cold surface after it contacts moist air. If you notice water droplets or any dampness on or around your windows, you may need a dehumidifier.
Condensation on windows will most likely appear in the winter time when the air is cold outside.
Pay special attention to the area around your windows, as moisture could accumulate there and lead to mold or mildew growth.
7. **Use a dehumidifier if you live in an excessively humid climate.** If you live in a tropical or subtropical environment where the humidity is regularly higher than 50%, you should consider purchasing a dehumidifier as a preventative measure. By running a dehumidifier, you’ll make sure the humidity level in your home or work space stays low. In the end, you’ll help maintain air quality and prevent damage to property.
Homes in the Southeastern United States are especially vulnerable to high humidity.
8. **Look for mold growth throughout your home.** Mold will typically grow on ceilings, walls, or in areas exposed to a lot of moisture. Pay special attention to the areas behind your sink, toilet, or next to your shower/tubs in bathrooms. In addition, keep an eye underneath your kitchen sink, as moisture there could lead to mold growth.
Mold will first appear as small black, green, or brown spots.
9. **Note if you smell a musty or mildew smell.** Walk around your home and notice if you smell any musty or earthy scents. If you smell odors that you’d recognize in the forest or outside, it is likely that you have mold or mildew growth and need a dehumidifier to lower the humidity level.
Pay specific attention to musty or mildew smells in garages, attics, or basements.
10. **Reflect on whether you suffer from allergies.** If you sneeze, cough, wheeze, or have a runny nose or eyes, you may be experiencing mold or bacteria-related allergies. This could be the result of mold growth in your home due to a high humidity level. Ultimately, a dehumidifier will starve mold and mildew of moisture, and limit their growth.
11. **Test your home’s air quality.** Purchase an air quality kit or hire an environmental testing service to do so. By testing your home’s air quality, you’ll be able to identify mold, mildew, or other contaminants that are in the air. If you find a high level of mold or mildew, you may need a dehumidifier in your home.
Air quality tests can also help you identify other air quality concerns, like asbestos or radon. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Know-if-You-Need-a-Dehumidifier", "language": "en"} |
How to Start a Nonprofit in Canada | Nonprofit organizations provide goods and services that benefit a particular group of people or the community in general. If you want to start a nonprofit organization in Canada, get a board of directors together to plan your operations and plan your fundraising and activities. Once you're ready to open your doors, incorporate your organization at either the federal or provincial level. Then you can register with Revenue Canada for tax-exempt status so you can issue income tax receipts to your donors.
1. **Determine what goods or services you want to offer.** Take a look at the community or group of people you want to serve and figure out how your nonprofit could best benefit them. You'll want to look at the kinds of needs there are and the best ways to help fulfill those needs.
Look at other nonprofits in your area and what they are doing to figure out unmet needs you can tap into with your organization.
If you already have a goal in mind, figure out how you're going to provide your goods or services to the people and what kind of resources you'll need to accomplish that.
For example, if you want to ensure people have access to clean water, you might hand out water filters to people who need them or teach courses in basic water filtration methods.
2. **Draft a mission statement for your organization.** Your mission statement outlines your organization's charitable purpose for donors as well as the general public. While it doesn't necessarily have to be lengthy, provide enough detail to keep it from being vague.
For example, if you wanted to provide greater access to clean water, you might draft a mission statement that describes your goal to ensure that all families in your province have adequate filtration services and the knowledge of how to clean their own water safely.
Your mission statement may be anywhere from half a page long to a couple of pages long, depending on the focus of your organization and what you want to accomplish. However, typically, you'll want to keep it to a page or less.
When you choose your board, share the mission statement with them. They may suggest revisions or additions.
3. **Create a plan to put your mission statement in action.** A nonprofit business plan describes in detail how your organization is going to fulfill its mission and where its resources are going to come from. You'll also outline the organizational structure of your organization.
Your structure and internal hierarchy largely depend on how you plan to operate your organization. For example, if you plan to recruit a lot of volunteers to work in the community, you would want someone in charge of recruiting volunteers and planning volunteer events.
Be specific about the services or goods you're going to offer to people and how much they're going to cost, as well as how much it's going to cost to operate the nonprofit. For example, if you're going to offer water filtration devices to families without clean water, you would need an estimate of how much each device would cost your organization to purchase and install.
Come up with ideas to raise funds for the nonprofit, including fundraising events or social media campaigns, along with realistic projections of how much money these activities will bring in.
While your business plan doesn't have to be extremely long and detailed at the outset, you'll eventually need a more detailed business plan if you want to seek institutional investment or sponsorship from established nonprofit organizations.
4. **Choose board members for your organization.** Choose your board members based on your goals for your organization as well as your organization's purpose. While it's fine to have friends and colleagues on the board, it's also typically a good idea to get an attorney and some sort of financial expert, such as an accountant.
For example, if you wanted to start a nonprofit to expand access to clean water, you might want to ask a scientist or water expert to be on your board.
Typically, you want to look for people who share your passion for your nonprofit's cause. However, keep in mind that you also need some general operational expertise, especially if you've never run a nonprofit before.
5. **Look into fiscal sponsorship.** If you don't have sufficient resources to get your nonprofit off the ground, you might consider sponsorship from an established nonprofit organization. You may also be able to get sponsorship from educational institutions or for-profit businesses that are aligned with your cause.
You may also be able to find a nonprofit incubator in your community. Nonprofit incubators act like incubators for business startups to provide you with the resources and connections you need to get your nonprofit off the ground.
The Tides Canada Initiatives Society has a program that offers fiscal sponsorship to nonprofits. The North Star Fund also maintains a working list of organizations that offer fiscal sponsorships on its website.
If you don't have a sponsor or other arrangement, you and your other board members can expect to be extremely active in the coming weeks or months to try to raise money at a grassroots level to get your organization off the ground.
6. **Choose a corporate name for your nonprofit.** Your corporate name can be either a numbered name or a word name. If you choose a numbered name, a number is assigned to your organization when you incorporate. A word name, on the other hand, must be unique to your organization. To get a word name, you must order a Nuans corporate name search.
To order your name search report, go to https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/075.nsf/eng/home. You can order a federal report or one specific to an individual province or territory. You do not need a Nuans report to incorporate your organization in British Columbia, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, or Nunavut. However, it's typically better to go ahead and get one anyway.
A Nuans report certifying that your name is unique is not the same thing as a trademark. If you trademark your organization's corporate name, you'll have added protection against other organizations using a name similar to yours.
Your corporate name can be either English, French, a combined English and French name, or two separate English and French names. However, your name must be unique in both languages.
7. **Decide whether you want to incorporate provincially or federally.** As a Canadian nonprofit, you have the option of incorporating either at the federal level or at the provincial level. If you incorporate at the federal level, your organization can operate throughout Canada. If you only plan on operating locally, on the other hand, it may be better for your organization to incorporate in the province or territory where your headquarters is located. Your operations will be restricted to that province or territory.
Visit the website of your province or territory's corporate registrar for more information about incorporating there. A list of these websites is available at https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/cd-dgc.nsf/eng/cs04578.html.
8. **Draft your Articles of Incorporation.** The Articles of Incorporation is a document that lists the name and address of your organization, the names and addresses of your board members, and other information about the establishment of your organization. If you're planning on incorporating federally, download the form from the Corporations Canada website. The website of each province or territory's corporate registrar has province-specific forms.
You aren't required to use the form. You can draft your own articles if you want, or have an attorney draft them for you. However, it's typically easier to use the free form.
9. **Incorporate provincially if you intend to remain local.** Visit the website of your province or territory to determine what documents are required to incorporate there. Typically, there will be forms you can fill out. Submit these forms along with any other required documents to incorporate your organization.
You'll also have to pay an incorporation fee, which varies among provinces and territories. You may pay anywhere from $40 in Nova Scotia to $245 in Yukon Territory, as of 2019. However, this is still typically less expensive than federal incorporation.
Typically, you'll get a certificate of incorporation within 30 days, although the turnaround time varies among provinces and territories. In Ontario, for example, it may take as long as 60 days, while in Alberta you can get your certificate in as little as 10 days.
10. **Create a federal corporation if you plan to operate in several provinces.** To create a federal corporation, go to the Corporations Canada website and click on the "Incorporate" button. Before you get started, make sure you have digital copies of the following:
Form 4001 — Articles of Incorporation
Form 4002 — Initial Registered Office Address and First Board of Directors
A Nuans name search report
11. **Draft and file by-laws.** Once you're incorporated, you'll have the first official meeting of your board of directors. At this board meeting, you'll draft the by-laws for your organization. These by-laws must be filed with the corporate registrar within 12 months after they've been confirmed by your board of directors.
Typically, you can just use the model by-laws available on the Corporations Canada website. Make sure you remove any clauses that aren't applicable to your organization.
If you'd rather create your own custom by-laws for your organization, you might want to try the By-law Builder developed by Corporations Canada and available at https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/cd-dgc.nsf/frm-eng/NGRR-8AFNVX.
12. **Gather documents to complete your registration.** Your registration application with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires supporting documents. While you can apply to register your nonprofit online, you'll need to have these documents scanned and ready to upload. You'll also need your business number (BN) to begin your application.
Your BN is a unique 9-digit identifier followed by a 2-letter program identifier and a 4-digit reference number. The program identifier will be "RR" for "registered charity," although your registration will be listed as "pending." You can find this number on your certificate of incorporation.
Documents you'll likely need include all formation documents related to your incorporation, financial records and documents for the organization, documentation of your organization's income and expenses, and other documents and information related to your expected activities.
13. **Access your organization's CRA account.** Go to the Canada Revenue Agency website and select "My Business Account." You can register for a new account for your organization using the BN.
Once you've set up your account, click the link that says "Apply to be a registered charity or RCAAA." This will take you to the online form.
14. **Complete the online form to register your nonprofit as a charity.** To start the form, you'll be asked a series of yes or no questions. Your answers to these questions determine what other information you'll be asked to provide. You can save and go back to your application at any time after you start it.
Check the "progress and status of your application" page to see how far along you are on each section of the application. You can go back and change the information you provided in any section at any time before you submit it.
When you've completed your application, you'll be prompted to upload digital copies of all required documents.
15. **Track the status of your application through your CRA account.** Provided your application is complete, you'll receive an acknowledgment letter from CRA. The letter will include the estimated time before your application will be assigned to an officer for review. Once your application is assigned, you can follow its progress through your CRA account.
If the CRA requires more information or documentation to process your application, you'll get a letter in the mail. Although you have 60 days to respond to this letter, get the requested information to the CRA as quickly as possible to avoid any further delays.
16. **Wait for your notice of registration.** The CRA will send you a notice of registration when your registration is approved. This registration includes your organization's registration number and the effective date of registration. Keep the notice of registration in your organization's records along with your incorporation documents.
If your registration is denied, you'll get a letter stating the reason. You can appeal by sending written notice within 90 days to Assistant Commissioner, Appeals Branch, 250 Albert Street, Ottawa ON K1A0L5. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Nonprofit-in-Canada", "language": "en"} |
How to Obtain a Zoning Permit | In many communities around the world, individuals or businesses that want to change a property that they own must obtain a zoning permit. Homeowners will often need a zoning permit to build additional structures on their properties, and in some cases, a zoning permit is required for something as small as a garden shed. Businesses might also need zoning permits to change the way they use a specific property. Whether your project is big or small, the general procedure to obtain a zoning permit is fairly consistent.
1. **Study local zoning ordinances for your community.** In most places, the issue of zoning is a local issue, rather than statewide or nationwide. You will want to visit your city hall or town hall to get information. Your city or town probably has a set of rules known as the local zoning ordinances, zoning regulations, zoning code, or something similar. Speak with someone at town hall and get a copy of these regulations.
Check online for many documents. As more and more communities have become tech-savvy, you may be able to search for your community’s zoning ordinances online. The City of Detroit, for example, posts everything including the latest Zoning Ordinance, application forms you will need, and copies of local zoning maps.
2. **Review with an attorney.** Applying for a zoning permit is not usually a very difficult process. Local zoning ordinances are usually written so that any resident of the community should be able to read and follow them. However, depending on the scale of the project you propose, you may need legal help. If your project is large or complicated and has several different parts to it, a lawyer can help you organize and understand all the requirements.
3. **Talk to the director of public works.** Most cities or towns will have a department of public works that controls this sort of planning and building. It may help your building project to plan a meeting with the director. The director should be able to help you play your application, review the information that you need, and decide if there are better ways for you to proceed.
As an example, the city of Key Biscayne, Florida, has a website for the Department of Building, Planning, Zoning and Public Works. Contact information is provided for all the staff of that department. In particular, one person is identified as the Zoning Plan Reviewer.
For simple, individual questions, you may be able to get answers you need with just a phone call. But if you need more help, or if you would like to review your overall project, the director of public works should be able to meet with you.
4. **Decide what type of zoning you need for the project you anticipate.** After you review your town’s zoning plan, you will get an understanding for the way the zoning laws are arranged. This should help you figure out what permission you need for the project you anticipate. For example, building a permanent tool shed in your own backyard will require a different level of permission than establishing a business in a residential neighborhood. Compare your project to the various permissions that are granted, and figure out your need.
For example, the town of North Brunswick, New Jersey, has an application form that includes a long list of different projects. Each project has a separate fee identified, as well as a space for indicating whether the area is zoned residential, non-residential or commercial.
5. **Obtain a copy of the application form.** Beyond understanding the zoning laws themselves, you will need to begin with a copy of the application form for the zoning relief that you need. In some communities, you will need a zoning permit for any type of building that you wish to do. Other areas will differentiate between the terms “zoning” and “building.” The term “zoning” refers to the use of buildings and land in certain geographical regions, while a “building” permit applies specifically to construction of various types. Determine which you need and request it through your City Hall’s zoning office.
6. **Collect ground plans, blueprints or other documents.** Usually, part of your zoning request is going to require you to demonstrate the impact that your proposal will have on the surrounding area. Part of doing this includes demonstrating how the area is zoned already. You will need to get copies of maps or ground plans from the city zoning office.
The documents you need are usually part of the public record, so you should have free access to them. You may have to pay a copying fee, depending on what you need.
7. **Collect details of the work that you propose.** Part of the application for a zoning variance usually requires that you submit details of the project that you propose. This usually must be very detailed. Make sure you read the application instructions very carefully and comply with the instructions meticulously. For example, the zoning variance instructions for the Town of Pittsford, NY, requires all of the following as part of the application:
an instrument survey of the area
a scale drawing of any building additions that you propose, with marked measurements
architectural elevations
photographs
maps
landscape plans.
8. **Be sure you have the owner’s permission.** If you are not the owner of the property for which you are requesting a variance or zoning permit, you will usually need to get the owner’s permission. If the owner is an individual, this may be as easy as speaking to that person. On the other hand, if you are proposing a project on a piece of public or commercial land, you may need to investigate the property’s ownership. You need to plan ahead and account for some extra time to be sure you have permission.
9. **Complete the paperwork.** Undoubtedly, the process for a zoning permit will begin with an application form. Be sure you have the right form for your project, and fill it out completely. Make sure that you have all the additional paperwork and materials that are supposed to accompany the application.
Many towns will provide a “checklist” so you can make sure you have everything you need for your application.
10. **Submit the completed paperwork.** When you have all the supporting material, including permissions and approvals of any required other individuals, gather your application together for filing.
Pay attention to which office to submit to. Sometimes you may just submit your application to the main clerk’s office at city hall, but sometimes you will be directed to submit the application directly to the zoning board or zoning director, or some other individual or office. To make sure your application does not get misplaced, send it to the correct office.
Make sure you know how many copies to submit. Sometimes you may just need to file the one application. But some communities will require additional copies. In Pittsfield, NY, for example, you need to file 12 copies of your application and all attachments.
11. **Include your filing fee, if any.** Find out as part of your application process whether the community requires the payment of a fee for a zoning permit. Check with the clerk or someone in the zoning office to find out how you can pay this, and to whom any check should be written.
Make sure you pay the appropriate fee for the type of proposal you are submitting. Different types of permits will often have different filing fees.
12. **Attend a hearing, if required.** If you are lucky, your application may simply be accepted, reviewed and approved without a hearing. But more often, you will probably need to attend a public hearing of the zoning board to address your application. When you file your application, you should check with the city clerk or someone in the zoning office to find out the procedure for such hearings. The scheduling of a meeting may be automatic, or it may be your responsibility to make sure that your application is scheduled for hearing.
For example, in Little Compton, Rhode Island, the Zoning Board meets the third Wednesday of each month to consider applications.
The city of Neillsville, Wisconsin, contains space on its application form for the Zoning Board to meet and record its action on any proposal.
13. **Treat the hearing seriously and professionally.** When you attend a zoning hearing, you need to be thoroughly prepared. You should have extra copies of your application package and all supporting materials. It may help if you have enlarged exhibits of the area map and your proposed project, to explain your application. You can never be sure if the meeting is a mere formality, or if the members of the zoning board are going to ask you very detailed questions. Try to be prepared for anything.
If possible, depending on the area where you live, you may want to speak with individual members of the zoning board before the meeting. This can help you get a sense of the level of acceptance you can expect when you attend the hearing. Many communities list their zoning board members on their websites. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Obtain-a-Zoning-Permit", "language": "en"} |
How to Clean a Projector Screen | To keep the image of your projector crystal clear, you’ll have to keep the screen clean. No matter what kind of screen you have, you can use simple household items as cleansers. By removing dust and marks followed by wiping the screen down, you'll have a fresh display to project on!
1. **Spray the screen with short strokes of compressed air to loosen the dust.** Purchase a can of compressed air commonly used to clean electronics. Keep the nozzle about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the screen and use short bursts of air. Blow the entire screen to loosen the dust.
Compressed air can be purchased at electronics or big box stores.
2. **Wrap a piece of 2 in (5.1 cm) thick masking tape around your hand.** Make a loop of tape around your fingers with the sticky side facing out. Cover your fingernails and knuckles so they do not come into contact with the screen.
Using wider tape will help you cover more area when you clean the screen.
3. **Tap the screen gently to remove dust marks ⁄4 inch (19 mm) in size.** With the tape wrapped around your hand, press it onto the screen on top of the mark. Lift your hand away from the screen and continue patting it until the mark disappears. Switch between using the frontside and backside of your hand so you don’t put residue back on the screen.
Wear latex gloves to avoid getting fingerprints or scratches on the screen.
If the mark is larger or is not coming up with the tape, you may have to use a stronger cleaning method.
4. **Mix a solution of 95% warm distilled water and 5% dish soap.** Stir the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl so they are completely mixed. This helps remove stubborn stains or stickiness from your projector screen.
All-purpose cleaners like Formula 409 or Green Works are good store-bought substitutes.
5. **Wet a microfiber rag with the solution.** Dip a clean, white cloth in the water and wring it out completely so it’s damp to the touch. A cotton cloth is preferred since it is soft and lint-free.
Avoid using rough or abrasive sponges since they may damage delicate screens.
6. **Rub the screen side to side with light pressure.** Work from the top to the bottom of the screen. Wipe horizontally across the screen in one direction. Use strokes about 5 inches (13 cm) in length and slightly overlap the area you just wiped so you have full coverage of the screen.
Wiping your screen in a circular motion can scratch and damage it.
7. **Wipe off excess water from the screen immediately with a dry cloth.** Take a new cloth and dry the area. Make sure to continue using side to side strokes to remove any water that may be left on the screen.
Don’t let the solution air dry on your screen or be absorbed since it may leave permanent stains.
8. **Dip the end of a Q-tip in isopropyl alcohol.** Make sure the end of the Q-tip is completely saturated with the alcohol. The alcohol will be more powerful than the solution you used prior and it should only be used for spot treatments.
Isopropyl, or rubbing alcohol, can be purchased at local pharmacies or convenience stores.
9. **Wipe the mark with the wet end of the Q-tip.** Only wipe the area with the mark. Use short side to side strokes, making sure to overlap with areas you’ve already wiped. Rotate the Q-tip as the mark starts to lift off of the screen.
Be gentle with the Q-tip. You shouldn’t be pressing into the screen too hard.
10. **Use the other side of the Q-tip to dry the spot right away.** Don’t let the alcohol soak into the screen, or else it could leave a permanent stain. Dab the dry end of the Q-tip on the mark to remove the alcohol and any mark that is left over.
You can also use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe the area dry.
11. **Finished.** | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Projector-Screen", "language": "en"} |
How to Build Your Own Chemistry Lab | If you really enjoy doing chemistry experiments, it might be a good idea to build your own lab at home. It is essential that you do everything safely and obtain chemical supplies in an appropriate way. There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the correct space and deciding what instruments you will need. Once you have the basic lab set up, you can get more advanced and add things specific to your needs.
1. **Select a space with access to electrical outlets.** For best results, use a spare room that has electrical outlets. If you don’t have a spare room, try to remove any non-essential items from the space. If necessary, you can use a power strip to plug in the necessary equipment.
2. **Make sure there is plenty of counter space.** You want to make sure you have plenty of space to set up and perform your experiments. A cluttered counter is difficult to work with and can lead to spills or damage to equipment. Ideally, you will have enough space to have a “wet” and “dry” side to work with. The “wet” side is for actual experiments, while the “dry” side is for supply storage.
You’ll also need plenty of space for the items you frequently use, such as glassware and chemicals.
If you’re concerned about ruining a good counter, place a towel on top of the counter and then a rubber non-slip mat on top of that. This will protect the counter and absorb any spilled chemicals.
3. **Choose an area that is well-ventilated and temperate.** Many chemicals and chemical reactions release volatile fumes that can be hazardous to your health. Proper ventilation is essential for your home chemistry lab. In addition, you want to work in a dry and temperate space. Temperature is important for the long-term storage of many chemicals.
While basements are spacious, they are not an ideal environment because they are usually poorly-ventilated, cold and damp during the winter, and hot and humid during the summer.
An open window and portable exhaust fan can serve to increase ventilation in any room.
If possible, work outside for experiments that produce lots of smoke or fumes.
4. **Ensure the location has a lot of light.** Being able to see what you are doing during experiments is extremely important. If your space does not have enough light, buy some floor lamps to increase the lighting. A well-lit space will help avoid injury while experimenting.
Rooms with windows provide nice natural light and increase the ventilation.
5. **Use a “spill-proof” floor.** Avoid rooms that have a porous floor such as carpet or wood. Spilled chemicals will be absorbed and ruin those surfaces. Vinyl or linoleum floors work very well because they are easy to clean and won’t absorb chemicals. Concrete flooring works as well, but is porous and can absorb spills. Consider coating it with latex or epoxy.
You can also purchase rubber flooring mats to cover the area of your workspace.
6. **Work near running water.** Although not essential, having access to running water and the sewer system can be very convenient. It is good not only for your experiments but also from a safety perspective. If this is not possible, fill a large container, such as a 5-gallon carboy, with water. You will need water for many of your experiments and it is useful to have a large amount nearby.
If you get something in your eye or spill chemicals directly on you, rinse the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes before seeking further treatment.
7. **Identify the purpose of your lab.** First, you need to establish the type of work you’re going to do in your lab. For instance, a biology lab will be set up differently than a chemistry lab. Similarly, your needs are going to be different if you’re a student doing science fair experiments versus a more advanced scientist performing complex reactions at home.
As a beginning scientist, you can start out with a home scientist kit, a few beakers, and work with supplies that can be found around the house.
If you are trying to do more complicated research, you will need accurate measuring devices, heating devices, and well-made glassware.
8. **Purchase essential supplies.** Obtain a filtration system so you can filter your solutions in order to reduce the risk of contamination. Beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks (with stoppers), and graduated cylinders of various sizes will be invaluable to your experiments. Sizes ranging from 250 mL to 1000 mL are good to start with. Small plastic pipettes, test tubes, racks for test tubes, heat resistant tubing, and a funnel are also useful to have on hand.
Burettes for titrations might also be useful for some chemistry experiments.
As you use your lab more, you will get to know what you need more of and what you don’t need.
High-quality student-grade equipment is usually sufficient for the work you would be doing at home and is much less expensive than professional-grade. Beware though, if it seems too cheap, it probably is.
9. **Get the basic equipment and tools for experiments.** Thermometers, pH paper, a milligram scale, hot plates, stir plates, and stir bars are all essential to starting a lab. Tools such as forceps, scoops, and tongs for hot flasks are useful as well. A small basic microscope might also be beneficial.
Some of these supplies are not cheap, but consider them an investment. If you buy something cheap, you may not get the results you are looking for.
Many of these basic supplies can be purchased easily online from sites like Thermo Fisher Scientific, Sigma Aldrich, or even Amazon.
10. **Gather basic chemicals.** Many chemicals for your lab can be easily purchased at grocery stores, hardware stores, lawn and garden stores, and pottery supply stores. Chemicals such as baking soda, soda ash, bleach, acetone, vinegar, and ammonia are all good basics to have on hand.
Some chemicals that can’t be purchased in stores can be synthesized from those that are easily purchased.
Be aware of the strength of the chemicals that you are using. Read all product labels and material safety data sheets before use.
11. **Consider purchasing more advanced equipment.** Identify the purpose of your lab. Knowing the types of experiments you want to do will help you determine the type of advanced equipment you may need. You may need glass condensers or better more expensive tools.
Some of this equipment can get expensive, so make sure it will really be useful to you if you are going to purchase it.
12. **Keep a laboratory notebook.** A good scientist keeps track of all of their work. Start a laboratory notebook and write down all of your experiments: the procedure you did, what you thought would happen, what actually happened, and what you will do with that information.
Date everything and keep your notebook current.
You can also use your notebook to track the use of your chemicals and their expiration dates.
13. **Wear proper protective equipment.** The most important aspect of lab safety is having the proper equipment to protect you while working. Always wear a lab coat to protect your clothes and skin from damage. Latex or nitrile gloves should be worn at all times when handling chemicals. Goggles that protect both your eyes and the sides of your eyes are also essential.
Closed-toe shoes should always be worn while working.
Long pants should also be worn to protect your legs.
Tie your hair back in a ponytail or bun if it is long.
Never eat or drink while experimenting.
14. **Store chemicals safely and label each one.** Flammable and corrosive chemicals should be stored in a special cabinet to prevent fire or explosions. These chemicals should also be stored in separate containers within the cabinet to prevent them from reacting with each other. Never store chemicals near household items like food and drinks. Be sure to label each chemical and solution as well.
Include the name of the chemical or solution, the concentration of the solution, the pH, the date the solution was made, and any other pertinent information on each label.
Read the material safety data sheets (MSDS) for all of the chemicals that you own to store them properly.
Use the proper storage container for your chemicals. Select airtight, chemical-resistant containers. Some strong acids can only be stored in plastic, while other chemicals may need to be stored in glass.
Make sure hazardous chemicals are stored under lock and key or safely away from the access of small children or pets.
15. **Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.** Always have a fire extinguisher nearby and a working smoke detector in the area. Make sure the fire extinguisher is not expired and keep it in an easily accessible location. Get a fire extinguisher that works against ABC or BC fires (can be corrosive to metals, but useful for chemical, electrical, and ordinary burning materials). These work best against chemical fires, but are not effective against strong alkali (basic) or strong acid fires.
Check the status of the fire extinguisher and the smoke detector once a month to make sure they are both in working order.
Never throw water on a strong acid. It will explode.
16. **Make a spill kit.** Spills are inevitable in the lab and having a spill kit will help you keep the spill from turning into something major. Keep your spill kit easily accessible and ensure all materials are within their expiration date. Make a spill kit that contains the following items:
Latex gloves
Eye protection that covers the sides of your eyes
Apron or lab coat
Dustpan and brush (also useful for broken glass)
Absorbent materials: kitty litter, sand or clay, and absorbent pads
Neutralizing materials: baking soda for acid spills; citric acid for basic spills
Store all items in a 5 US gal (19 L) polypropylene (plastic) bucket. Use the bucket to contain all the materials after cleaning up the spill. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Build-Your-Own-Chemistry-Lab", "language": "en"} |
How to Make Magic Mouthwash | If you have painful sores in your mouth or throat due to an infection, chemotherapy medication, or another underlying medical condition, it can be hard to get relief. Magic mouthwash is a soothing cocktail of topical medications that can reduce your pain and help those sores heal faster. The best way to get magic mouthwash is to ask your doctor for a prescription, but we’ll give you tips on how to make a simpler version at home for quick relief.
1. **Combine equal parts Benadryl and Maalox.** You can make your own simple magic mouthwash by mixing the liquid forms of diphenhydramine hydrochloride (often sold as Benadryl) and aluminum or magnesium hydroxide (Maalox or Mylanta). Stir together equal amounts of each medication—for example, 2 tablespoons (30 mL) each.
Benadryl is an anticholinergic and antihistamine, which can help reduce inflammation and pain. The Maalox coats the inside of your mouth and protects the sores as they heal.
You can get Benadryl and Maalox or Mylanta in your drug store or the pharmacy section of the grocery store.
Unlike the prescription version of magic mouthwash, the “lite” version doesn’t have any numbing agents in it. However, it can still soothe your sores and help them heal faster.
2. **Swish the magic mouthwash once every 4-6 hours.** Use a medicine cup or syringe to measure out 1–2 teaspoons (4.9–9.9 mL) of mouthwash. Swish it around in your mouth to coat the sore spots, then spit it out.
It won’t hurt you if you accidentally swallow a little bit, but the Benadryl might make you drowsy.
You can also dab the mouthwash directly on any sore areas with a cotton swab.
You might need to use the magic mouthwash for about a week to start feeling the full benefits.
3. **Avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes after you use it.** If you eat or drink too soon, you’ll wash away the protective coating and it won’t be as effective. Let the mouthwash sit in your mouth for at least half an hour first.
4. **Make a saltwater rinse as a gentle and effective alternative.** Studies show that saltwater rinses are just as effective at treating mouth sores as magic mouthwash, and they’re less likely to cause side effects. To make a saltwater rinse, dissolve 1 tsp (6 g) of salt and 2 tsp (9 g) of baking soda in 8 fluid ounces (240 mL) of warm water. Swish the mixture around in your mouth to coat the sores, then spit it out.
Use this rinse every 4-6 hours or as often as you need to soothe your mouth pain.
5. **Ask your doctor about magic mouthwash if you have mouth sores.** A prescription is the easiest way to get magic mouthwash. If you have sores in your mouth, ask your doctor for a prescription that’s tailored to your needs. If they think it’s right for you, you can pick it up from your local pharmacy and start using it right away.
Magic mouthwash formulas vary, but most of them contain a mixture of antibiotics, antifungals, steroids or antihistamines, and some sort of numbing agent (such as lidocaine).
Your pharmacist might make a magic mouthwash using a premade kit, or mix up a specialized one based on your doctor’s orders.
6. **Get the ingredients from your doctor to mix your own.** In some cases, your doctor may give you special instructions to make your own magic mouthwash from ingredients you can purchase separately. You might need a prescription for some of the ingredients, such as viscous lidocaine. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to make sure you mix it correctly and use the right amount of each ingredient.
For instance, your doctor might recommend mixing 1 to 3 parts Maalox with 1 part viscous lidocaine.
One advantage of mixing your own mouthwash is that it is usually less expensive than the pre-mixed prescription version.
7. **Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions carefully.** Depending on what’s in the mouthwash, your doctor might have different instructions on how to use it. In most cases, they’ll probably tell you to swish 1–2 teaspoons (4.9–9.9 mL) every 4-6 hours. You may need to swish the mouthwash for a certain amount of time, such as 1-2 minutes, before spitting it out.
Ask your doctor if you should spit or swallow the mouthwash. In some cases, they may advise you to swallow the mouthwash to treat ulcers in your throat or esophagus.
Your doctor will tell you how long to keep using the magic mouthwash. Typically, you’ll start to feel relief in about a week.
8. **Treat the underlying cause of your mouth sores.** Sometimes, magic mouthwash is used to treat the symptoms of a larger condition. In these cases, it may not be enough to get rid of your mouth sores on its own. Talk to your doctor about safely using other medications or treatments along with magic mouthwash.
For example, you might need other treatments along with magic mouthwash if your sores are caused by oral thrush, the herpes virus, or an autoimmune disease.
9. **Talk to your doctor if you notice side effects.** Burning, tingling, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation are the most common side effects of magic mouthwash. You might also have problems with drowsiness or changes in your sense of taste. The side effects are usually mild, and they’ll go away after you stop using magic mouthwash. However, don’t hesitate to call your doctor if something is worrying you.
You’re more likely to notice side effects if you swallow your magic mouthwash instead of spitting it out.
If you accidentally swallow a large amount of magic mouthwash, call your doctor or a poison control center. Keep the bottle on hand so you can tell them what ingredients are in your mouthwash.
10. **Don’t try to make a prescription-strength mouthwash on your own.** Magic mouthwashes can contain a wide variety of ingredients, and not all doctors agree on what combination works best. A lot of the common ingredients are also available only by prescription. For your own safety, don’t start mixing medicines without special instructions from a doctor or pharmacist.
Your doctor will be able to determine the balance of ingredients that’s right for your needs.
11. **Ask your doctor before giving magic mouthwash to kids.** Some of the common ingredients in magic mouthwash, such as lidocaine, can be dangerous for small children. Only give magic mouthwash to a child if your doctor prescribes it or says it’s okay.
If your child has mouth sores, your doctor might recommend starting with a gentler treatment, such as a saltwater and baking soda rinse. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Magic-Mouthwash", "language": "en"} |
How to Store Lemon Meringue Pie | Lemon meringue pie is a tasty and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for a dinner party or holiday treat. However, if stored improperly, the meringue can become runny and wet, changing the texture of the pie. To store lemon meringue pie, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re making the pie, you can also take steps to prevent the meringue from becoming runny.
1. **Set the uncovered pie on a rack to cool for 1 hour.** When you remove the pie from the oven, set it on a cooling rack to let air circulate above and below the pan. Avoid touching the meringue as it cools, as this can cause the eggs to release moisture.
If you don’t have a baking rack, set the pie on a heat-resistant pot holder while it cools to protect your countertops from scorching.
2. **Place the uncovered pie in the refrigerator for 3-6 hours.** After cooling the pie to room temperature, move it to the refrigerator. Lemon meringue pie should always be chilled before serving. Make sure the pie is on a top shelf to prevent other items in the refrigerator from spilling or dripping on the pie.
Avoid putting any plastic wrap or foil over the pie if you’re refrigerating it for less than 6 hours. Covering the pie with a wrap can crush the meringue, causing it to release moisture and get runny, which is called “weeping.”
3. **Cut the pie with a wet knife after cooling it for at least 3 hours.** Remove the pie from the refrigerator when you’re ready to serve it. To get a clean cut, dip a knife in cool water before cutting the pie to prevent the meringue from sticking to the knife.
If it’s a humid day, you may notice that the meringue produces water immediately after you remove it from the refrigerator. This is normal, and you can still cut and serve the pie.
4. **Avoid storing the pie outside of the refrigerator for more than 2 hours.** Once you’ve served a few slices of the pie, return the remaining pieces to the refrigerator to prevent bacteria growth. Never leave the pie sitting at room temperature for long periods of time.
If the pie has been sitting out for longer than 2 hours, it’s best to throw away the remaining pieces to prevent foodborne illness.
5. **Insert 3 toothpicks into the pie to support the plastic wrap.** Push the toothpicks about halfway between the center and crust so that they stick out about ⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) above the meringue. Position them in a triangle shape to ensure that all of the sides of the pie will be protected when you add the plastic wrap.
The toothpicks help to hold the plastic wrap up and away from the meringue. If the plastic is too close to the meringue, the combination of eggs and water will begin to weep and release water, making the meringue look runny.
If you have a particularly large pie, you may need to use 4 or 5 toothpicks distributed throughout the pie.
6. **Drape a piece of plastic wrap over the toothpicks and pie.** Leave the pie in the pan or transfer it to a plate, and get a piece of plastic cling wrap that’s large enough to cover the pie. Then, carefully lay the plastic on top of the toothpicks so they don’t puncture the plastic. Fold the edges of the cling wrap around the outside of the pan or plate.
If one of the toothpicks tears or punctures the cling wrap, throw the piece away and get another one to use.
7. **Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.** Transfer the pie to the refrigerator, being careful not to pull on the cling wrap. Place the pie on the top shelf where you can keep it for a few days before enjoying it. After 1-2 days in the refrigerator, replace the plastic wrap with a new piece.
If you need to take the pie out of the refrigerator at any point, be careful not to pull or poke the plastic wrap, as this can cause the toothpicks to break through the plastic.
8. **Avoid placing the pie in the freezer at any point.** Meringues are made of eggs and sugar, so they don’t freeze well. If you do put the meringue in the freezer, it can become flat or crunchy, ruining the texture of your pie.
Most meringues tend to break down in the freezer, resulting in a pie with a crunchy, icy texture.
You can, however, prepare and store the lemon filling and crust in the freezer for a few months. Then, when you’re ready to serve the pie, remove the premade filling and crust from the freezer and bake the rest of the pie as normal.
9. **Add the meringue to the pie 10 minutes after you take it out of the oven.** Prepare the meringue while the lemon filling and crust are baking in the oven. When you take the bottom portion of the pie out of the oven, wait a few minutes for the lemon filling to cool slightly to avoid overbaking the meringue.
The heat from the filling will begin to cook the meringue, making it less likely to shrink or weep
10. **Spread the meringue across the pie so that it’s touching the crust.** Use a spoon or spatula to distribute the meringue over the top of the pie. Around the edge, press the meringue outward slightly to make sure it’s touching the crust all the way around the pie, which “seals” the meringue to prevent weeping.
It may be easier to use a toothpick or a fork to spread the delicate meringue around the edges. Just be careful not to stick the toothpick all the way into the pie before it’s baked, which can cause the lemon filling and meringue to mix.
11. **Watch the pie while it’s in the oven to avoid overbaking.** At the minimum baking time, pull the meringue out of the oven to check if it’s done. If it is, let it cool and chill. If not, put it back in the oven for increments of 2-3 minutes at a time to finish baking.
On a pie, a cooked meringue will have a slight brown tint but still be soft and fluffy.
If you begin to see small drops of water on the meringue when you take it out of the oven, stop baking the pie immediately. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Lemon-Meringue-Pie", "language": "en"} |
What Is a Pick Me Boy? Everything You Need to Know | If you've spent any time watching TikToks, you've probably come across several Pick Me Boy point-of-view videos. So, what is a Pick Me Boy? Most TikToks give a lot of examples, but not much background on the term. In this article, we'll give you the breakdown on the Pick Me Boy and things he might say, so you'll be able to spot one in your own life.
1. **A Pick Me Boy puts himself down in order to emotionally manipulate a woman.** At first, it might seem like the guy has low self-esteem, but it's actually a tactic to get recognition or emotional support from a woman he likes.
Usually, he'll say something self-deprecating in order to make the woman he's talking to reassure him and tell him how great he is. He might even go so far as to ask her out, hoping that she feels so guilty she'll accept.
2. **The Pick Me Boy tries to stand out by voicing feminist views he doesn't really hold.** He'll share viewpoints that seem really progressive or feminist because he thinks that will make him seem different than other guys.
Pick Me Boys are also notorious for making stereotypical assumptions about gender roles.
3. **Pick Me Boy has its origins in African American Vernacular English.** The term first popped up in online magazines like Dominique and The Root back in 2017. Articles described the Pick Me Man as a variation of a simp—someone who does way too much for someone they like.
Although the term means something different now, it's important to recognize that it had its start in Black internet culture.
You can treat a Pick Me Boy the same way you'd deal with a simp—be honest and clear about how you feel.
4. **The term showed up on Urban Dictionary and TikTok in 2021.** Pick Me Boy entries popped up on Urban Dictionary in February and the idea quickly made its way to TikTok, where the term became really popular.
A lot of TikToks point out the differences between the Pick Me Girl and the Pick Me Boy—neither of the terms is very positive, so they're cautionary videos. The Pick Me Girl claims to be different from all other women, so she stands out to men.
5. **"You're out of my league."** This is a Pick Me Boy's way of giving a compliment, but he expects something in return. Specifically, he wants you to argue and say that he's good enough for you. He may continue this idea until he can ask you out. Here's another way he does this when messaging:
Boy: "Hi. 😃"You: "Hi."Boy: "Oh, wow. Girls never text me back."
He'll probably be pretty soft spoken or timid when saying these things—it's only after you reject him that his demeanor totally changes.
6. **"I'm used to rejection."** He says this to immediately get your pity. Plus, it's his way of setting you up for a challenge—he's hoping you'll want to prove him wrong and give you a chance. Think of this response as a bit of sly reverse psychology. He might also say:
"I'm so ugly."
"No one ever talks to me."
"I don't blame you. Who would want to go out with me?"
The guy will probably pause and look at you after saying something like this—he's waiting for you to jump in and correct him.
7. **"I just want equal pay for women."** He might bring up a feminist idea out of the blue just to signal how progressive he is. Don't be surprised if he immediately makes a move after saying something like this—he thinks you'll be impressed that understands you and you won't dare turn him down.
He'll probably seem vocal or passionate about a topic before he totally switches gears and focuses on you.
8. **"Nice guys always finish last."** This is his last shot at making it with you. If he's not getting emotional support or recognition from you, he'll fall back on this phrase. It's kind of like his Hail Mary—he's hoping you'll change your mind and agree to keep talking with him or accept your offer of a date.
He might switch this up a bit and say something like, "I'll stop bothering you now."
Pay attention to how he starts acting. He might act overly emotional and start crying, or he'll become bitter and angry. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Pick-Me-Boy-Meaning", "language": "en"} |
How to Stimulate the Vagus Nerve | The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, connecting your brain to your heart, lungs, and stomach. Although you may never have heard of it, it is a remarkably important part of your body, especially because it helps aid digestion, sleep, and breathing and it controls your anxiety and mood. The vagus nerve is the driving force behind your parasympathetic nervous system, which is in charge of regulating the “rest and digest” and “tend and befriend” responses. By stimulating your vagus nerve through physical activity, breathing techniques, diet, or relaxing your mind, you can help bring your mood under control, alleviating depression and anxiety symptoms and making you calmer and healthier in general.
1. **Sing an upbeat and energetic song that acts as an emotional catharsis.** Singing is a great way to release pent-up emotions and help you feel more relaxed, positively affecting your entire parasympathetic nervous system. Singing loudly also exercises your vocal cords and throat muscles, which in turn stimulate the vagus nerve.
Singing also leads your body to release oxytocin, which produces feelings of joy and well-being.
If you’re unable to sing loudly, humming softly and even gargling water can also work your throat muscles and thus stimulate your vagus nerve.
2. **Engage in meditation that includes thoughts of love and compassion.** According to one study, generating positive emotions in yourself through loving-kindness meditation and enhancing your sense of social connection can lead to heightened activity in the vagus nerve. Note that your meditation needs to include compassionate thoughts of others in order to reap this benefit.
In other words, the act of meditation alone will not necessarily stimulate your vagus nerve; having thoughts of love and compassion for others is what’s most important.
To practice loving-kindness meditation, start by sitting in a comfortable pose and focusing on your breathing to clear your mind. Then, begin to mentally repeat 1 or more mantras that reflect compassion for yourself and for others, such as “May I be happy” and “May my coworkers be healthy and strong.”
3. **Do something that makes you laugh out loud.** Laughing is arguably the easiest and most enjoyable way to stimulate your vagus nerve. Watch a TV show, movie, or stand-up comic to receive a variety of health benefits just from laughing.
Some of the other health benefits accrued by laughing include increasing circulation to different parts of the body, lowering your blood pressure, and releasing chemicals in your body that are beneficial to the cardiovascular system.
Try watching a funny show or movie with other people; people tend to laugh more easily when enjoying something funny with others!
4. **Spend time socializing with people you have positive relationships with.** Socializing, especially when combined with laughing, can have a tremendous positive effect on your vagus nerve. Try to spend ample time with people whom you enjoy being around and who you feel positive emotions for. Hanging out with friends and family can actually help you generate greater vagal tone (activity of your vagus nerve).
Laughing with friends will also strengthen your relationship and promote bonding between you, thereby leading to greater stimulation of the vagus nerve when you spend time together.
5. **Modify the tone of your voice when you talk with people.** Speaking in a calm, even tone may help you to soothe yourself. When you hear a soothing voice, such as the voice of a loved one or trusted friend, your body releases oxytocin. On the other hand, not hearing soothing voices enough may result in a higher amount of cortisol, which is a stress hormone.
Try speaking to yourself in a soothing voice, as if you were trying to comfort a pet or a child.
Another option is to call up a friend or family member who has a soothing voice and talk with them for a while.
6. **Perform slow, deep breathing exercises.** Slowing down your breathing by exhaling for longer than you inhale and taking deep breaths has been shown to not only stimulate your vagus nerve, but also reduce anxiety and promote calmness. Aim to take 6 10-second breaths per minute for 5 minutes to increase vagal activity.
Deeply breathe in with your diaphragm so that your stomach expands outward. Try breathing in for 5 seconds and then slowly exhaling for 5 seconds.
If you’re having trouble performing deep breathing exercises, try looking up helpful videos online or downloading an app that will guide you in your breathing.
7. **Do yoga for 90 minutes every week.** Studies have shown that regularly performing yoga increases the activity of your parasympathetic nervous system, which includes greater stimulation of your vagus nerve. For best results, perform at least 90 minutes of yoga each week consistently.
If you’re a beginner, start out with some relatively easy yoga poses, such as the cat pose, cow pose, bridge pose, and the aptly named easy pose.
Similar slow exercises, such as tai chi and qi gong, have also been shown to have a stimulating effect on the vagus nerve.
Don’t try to do yoga that is overly difficult for you to do. Remember, yoga should be relaxing as well as physically engaging.
8. **Engage in moderate to intense exercise 4 times a week.** Exercise that significantly increases your heart rate, such as jogging, walking, or weightlifting, has a number of positive effects on your mental health, including vagus nerve stimulation. Aim to perform this exercise at least every other day to receive consistent positive results.
Try to engage in exercises that you enjoy doing; this will help ensure that you’re able to do them consistently.
Regular exercise also increases brain growth and can help reverse cognitive decline.
9. **Get a massage or acupuncture treatment.** Research has shown that receiving a massage or acupuncture treatment can lead to increased vagal activity and vagal tone. Aim to schedule a massage or treatment once every 2-3 months for consistent stimulation of the vagus nerve.
Massages are most effective at stimulating the vagus nerve when they’re done on the feet and on the carotid sinus.
For best results from acupuncture treatment, try having it performed on your ear.
10. **Perform progressive muscle relaxation** Progressive muscle relaxation is an effective way to reduce anxiety. Starting with your toes, squeeze the muscles in both feet to tense them, hold for 10 seconds, then release. Do this for each muscle group in your body until you reach the top of your head. Then, relax for as long as you like.
Find a quiet, comfortable spot to perform a progressive muscle relaxation.
Remember to breathe as you perform this exercise.
11. **Expose your body to cold water, weather, or beverages.** Although your sympathetic nervous system will be initially heightened after being exposed to the cold, once your body becomes acclimated your parasympathetic nervous system will generate a response, including by stimulating the vagus nerve. Try splashing cold water on your face or ending your showers with 1 minute of cold water to increase vagal activity.
Over time, you may find it helpful to take showers only using cold water.
Simply spending some time underdressed in cold weather (e.g., wearing a t-shirt during a snowfall) can also stimulate your vagus nerve.
12. **Undergo surgery to implant a device that stimulates your vagus nerve electrically.** For those suffering from epilepsy or from depression that doesn’t respond to therapy or medication, there are devices (called programmable pulse generator devices) that doctors can implant under the skin that stimulate the vagus nerve with electrical impulses that may be particularly useful. Talk to your doctor to determine whether this type of device is right for you.
This form of vagus nerve stimulation is generally considered safe for most people. Some side effects may include voice changes, throat pain, cough, headache, chest pain, or tingling on the skin.
As of September 2018, noninvasive devices that stimulate the vagus nerve and that don’t require surgery are available in Europe, but have not yet been made available in the United States.
13. **Add probiotics to your diet to create healthy gut bacteria.** Research has increasingly shown that there is a linkage between the bacteria in your gut and the activity of the vagus nerve. Specifically, eating more Lactobacillus rhamnosus can reduce depression- and anxiety-related behaviors, most likely by stimulating the vagus nerve.
The research conducted on Lactobacillus rhamnosus was carried out in mice and researchers are thus not 100% sure that consuming this probiotic will always have similar effects on humans.
Bifidobacterium longum is another probiotic that has been shown to increase vagal activity in mice and that may be able to stimulate the vagus nerve in humans.
14. **Eat more omega-3 fatty acids.** Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in ensuring good mental health, as they’re necessary for the normal functioning of your brain and nervous system. These fatty acids have also been shown in experiments to lower your heart rate and stimulate the vagus nerve. However, your body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids itself, so you need to add them to your regular diet in order to receive their health benefits.
In addition to vagus nerve stimulation, omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to reduce inflammation, reverse cognitive decline, and even help people overcome addictions.
Omega-3 fatty acids are typically found in fish, so a good way to eat more of them is to increase the amount of fish in your diet or start taking fish oil supplements.
15. **Eliminate sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.** Cutting these from your diet will allow you to function at your best. Avoid foods that have added sugars, switch to decaf coffee and tea, and drink only non-alcoholic beverages. This may help you to feel calmer in general.
16. **Try intermittent fasting if you're physically healthy.** Research on fasting conducted with rats has indicated that dietary restriction can result in increased parasympathetic activity, which is possibly caused by vagus nerve stimulation. If you’re in good health, consider fasting every now and then to possibly stimulate your vagus nerve and enjoy other health benefits.
Other benefits of intermittent fasting may include increased longevity, lower blood pressure, prevention of age-related diseases, and lower body weight.
Note that fasting is not recommended for the very young, the elderly, or those who are seriously ill. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stimulate-the-Vagus-Nerve", "language": "en"} |
How to Become a WWE Superstar | What'cha gonna do, brother? If you want to be a World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar, you've got to have a unique combination of athletic skills, looks, and acting abilities. It's a total package. You can learn to train your body and mind. Give yourself the best chance to compete on the grandest stage of them all.
1. **Play football** Professional wrestlers come from all kinds of athletic backgrounds. WWE talent scouts recruit new wrestlers based on a criteria of athleticism, charisma, coachability, etc. Athletes are encouraged to apply on their recruiting website WWEPerformanceCenter.com for a chance to be invited to an upcoming tryout.
The Rock, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, Bray Wyatt and Roman Reigns all got their start on the football field, not in the squared circle.
Other notable stars including Brock Lesnar, Kurt Angle, and Dolph Ziggler, started out as skilled amateur wrestlers before signing deals with WWE.
Wrestlers like CM Punk, Chris Jericho, Seth Rollins, and The Hardy Boyz didn't come from athletic backgrounds. Instead, they received training at private wrestling schools, then joined indy wrestling promotions and got good enough to get WWE's attention.
2. **Start strength-training** How did Ryback get so ripped? Hitting the weights at the age of 12. WWE wrestlers need to be strong enough to pick up a 200+ pound brawler and slam him to the mat safely. Even if you want to be a high-flyer or a mat-wrestler, you need to be strong. Focus on building strength in your upper body, your core, and your legs.
While wrestlers used to look like beer-drinking bar-room brawlers, most wrestlers these days have bodybuilder muscles. It takes serious commitment to diet and exercise if you want to be in the WWE.
Join a gym and consult a personal trainer if you want to get into WWE shape. Wrestler Triple H also offers a strength and conditioning workout video series you can buy commercially.
3. **Focus on high-intensity cardio** Running around the ring between the ropes, landing flat on your back, and doing hip-tosses That's hard. Wrestling will have you gasping for breath pretty quick if you're not in shape. Pro wrestlers need to be in excellent cardio condition, ready to go 10-20 minutes per match at a fast clip.
Try grouping your favorite 5-10 strength workouts and do them in short, timed bursts to introduce some cardio to your strength-training routine. Do as many reps as you can with a manageable weight in 60 seconds, then give yourself 15 seconds of rest before moving to the next workout. Do all 10 exercises before taking a two minutes break, then repeat the circuit twice.
Former pro wrestler "Diamond" Dallas Page leads a wrestling-themed yoga workout that's available commercially, involving low-impact flexibility and cardio exercise. Lots of wrestlers use his method in their training.
4. **Take dance classes** Pro wrestling is about learning to move with other people, to make the contest look realistic. Moonsaults, bodyslams, and hurricanranas are a lot more like dancing than they are like actual wrestling. You won't see anyone come off the top rope in an amateur contest or do an RKO, so gymnastics and dance are good ways to get coordinated.
Learning to tumble and take bumps will be part of your wrestling training, but you'll be a much faster learner if you've got experience doing flips and learning to spot yourself. It's an excellent way to build a foundation.
5. **Take acting classes** The Rock didn't become a movie star by accident. Wrestlers have to be great actors, learning to sell moves and tell a convincing and compelling story in the ring. Even if you've got a ripped bod and a killer finishing move, nobody's going to care if you can't talk on the microphone.
Promos used to be improvised in the days of the Hulkster. Now, memorizing lines is a part of the routine in the WWE. If you want to be on TV, you're going to have to learn to read a script and memorize your lines.
6. **Eat a clean diet** A common joke among pro wrestlers is that they eat nothing but grilled chicken breasts, steamed broccoli, and brown rice. Even though you might be on the road 300 days a year, it's not going to be all hamburgers and french fries. You've got to commit to eating a diet rich in lean proteins, vitamin-rich vegetables, and slow-digesting carbohydrates, to keep your body working for you.
7. **Join a private wrestling school.** Learning to do pro wrestling moves needs to happen in person, taught by a wrestling instructor in a proper wrestling ring. Wrestling schools and academies are available in most regions, offering 6-week courses and other packages for interested wrestlers. The best of these will sometimes be offered spots in local promotions.
Lots of notable wrestling schools are run by former wrestlers. Shawn Michaels, Lance Storm, Devon and Bubba Ray Dudley, Harley Race, and Killer Kowalski all run esteemed wrestling schools in the US, from which many WWE superstars have graduated.
Likewise, many indie promotions like Ring of Honor and Ohio Valley Wrestling also offer training programs.
Never, under any circumstances, should you start practicing the wrestling moves you see on television, when you're at home. Done incorrectly, those moves can be deadly.
8. **Learn to take bumps.** The big secret to those devastating moves that look like they really hurt? They actually really hurt. Pro wrestlers learn to fall properly, however, to control those falls and protect their heads and necks from more serious injury. While landing flat on your back will never feel great, in training you'll learn to do it safely. Other skills you'll learn in wrestling school involve:
Locking up
Striking
Running the ropes
Chain wrestling
Taking specific moves
Communicating in the ring
Selling other wrestlers' moves
9. **Learn to make your matches dramatic.** Like a good movie, a good wrestling match isn't all shoot-outs and love scenes, even though those might be the best parts. Matches need to be paced properly, mixing high spots and low spots to create drama for the audience. Learning how to do this is one of the most difficult but important parts of learning the art of wrestling.
Contrary to popular belief, most wrestling matches aren't actually scripted move-for-move. Lots of the bigger spots and the finish is usually planned out, but getting from point A to point B will usually be called in the ring.
Talk to older and more experienced wrestlers. Take every opportunity to work with them yourself if you want to learn about match pacing. Most beginners rush, going from move to move pretty quickly. Slowing down is a skill that you'll gain with time and effort.
10. **Build a unique character.** Pro wrestling characters are usually flamboyant, over-the-top, larger-than-life personas. Regular guys named Terry and James became Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior when they set foot in the ring. Connect with a crowd by developing a kind of character they'll be able to relate to if you're a babyface, or despise if you're a heel.
Good characters are usually just amplified versions of your real personality. John Cena could really freestyle rap before he became the Doctor of Thuganomics, and Chris Jericho, the Ayatollah of Rock 'n Rolla, really is the singer in a band.
Character traits are sometimes called "gimmicks" in pro wrestling. Even if you're wrestling under your regular name, you need a good gimmick or prop. Think of Bret Hart's leather jacket and pink sunglasses, or Shawn Michaels' sparkly chaps.
11. **Learn to talk well on the mic.** Remember: The wins and losses don't matter. Wrestlers aren't always great because they're the best wrestlers. Some of them just talk so charismatically, they get you to believe they are. Study the work of some promo masters, like Ric Flair, The Rock, Chris Jericho, Paul Heyman, and Randy Savage to learn how to talk smack with the best of them.
Practice talking in front of the mirror, perfecting the mannerisms and movements of your character. Become someone else and commit to as wide a range of emotions as possible.
Good catchphrases are important for wrestlers, but cutting an intense promo about your upcoming match is even more important. You can practice promos any time. Pick a wrestler you hate and practice talking in the mirror. Talk how you're going to rip his head off this coming Sunday. Make it intense. Make it entertaining.
12. **Learn to do the job.** Being a good pro wrestler isn't about winning the most matches, or being the strongest person in the world. It's about getting the crowd interested in your matches enough to want to see you win, or lose. It's a performance, and sometimes the performance won't involve you getting the win.
Pro wrestlers usually work as "heels" or "babyfaces." If you're a heel, your job is to make the crowd hate you so much they'll pay good money to see you get a beat-down. If you're a babyface, your job is to be sympathetic with the crowd, so they'll want to see you do the beating. Not everyone can be a babyface.
Some wrestlers do pretty much nothing but lose. When you first get started, you'll probably be doing "jobs" for more experienced wrestlers. It's a great opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the business. Try to keep your ego out of it.
13. **Study the history of wrestling.** WWE wrestlers need to be fans of the product. The WWE Network has an enormous archive of original content available online for cheap, including every pay-per-view event ever, but check out other VOD sources and YouTube to find the classics of the territory days, and try to keep up with what's going on in the current indy promotions as well.
Watch WCW's great cruiserweight matches with Sting and Vader, as well as classics by Dean Malenko, Eddy Guerrero, and Rey Mysterio Jr.
Watch Sandman, Raven, and Tommy Dreamer tear it up in the wild days of ECW.
Check out NWA classics from the 70s and 80s to see Harley Race, Tully Blanchard, Dusty Rhodes and Ric Flair in their prime.
Watch Verne Gagne, Mad Dog Vachon, Nick Bockwinkel, and Larry Zbyszko go head to head in AWA.
Lots of current and former wrestlers have podcasts, which include lots of wrestlers talking about the details of the wrestling business and telling stories. It's a great way to learn about what it takes. Check out podcasts by Colt Cabana, Jim Ross, and Steve Austin for a good perspective on the art of pro wrestling.
14. **Wrestle for an independent promotion for a while.** Wrestlers who try out for WWE need at least 3-5 years of pro wrestling experience. The only wrestlers who go immediately into the WWE are recruited from amateur college wrestling programs or other athletics. Most other wrestlers get started wrestling for some kind of promotion other than the WWE and climb their way through the ranks. Here's a list of regional independent promotions, some of which have training schools as well:
Ring of Honor
Dragon Force
Global Force Wrestling
AAA
AEW
NWA
Pro Wrestling Guerilla
Combat Zone Wrestling
15. **Hit the road.** Smaller promotions will hire wrestlers who have received training. Many wrestlers start making a living by traveling between promotions in the region, doing a few shows at a time and gradually making connections in the business. Start getting yourself booked in as many territories as possible and working your way between them.
In the United States, the northeast is especially friendly to pro wrestling shows and indie wrestlers. Start working the circuit in your area.
16. **Market yourself.** Go into business for yourself. Meet as many other wrestlers and promoters as you can and let them know that you're in the business of wrestling. Make yourself available to make appearance at shows of any kind, and try to get as many gigs as possible.
Print up and start selling your own merch at events. This is an excellent way to start coming up with some extra money, as well as to get to know other sides of the business. Think about what kind of a shirt people will be likely to buy. Then wrestle in it and sell it after the show.
Make up highlight packages of your matches. Start marketing your skills and your abilities in the squared circle by compiling highlight reels of your abilities. Load these up onto YouTube, or a personal website of your own.
17. **Go to a WWE tryout.** On the WWE website is a career page, which regularly posts job openings in a variety of different departments. Jobs include production, writing, and talent. Regional tryouts are held occasionally, where wrestlers may show off in an attempt to get the recruiters' attention. These tryouts will be posted on the WWE site and held at the NXT facility in Orlando, FL.
According to some estimates, WWE gets as many as 2000 unsolicited wrestler applications every single week. You can send video and press to World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. Attention: Talent Relations, 1241 East Main Street, Stamford, CT 06902. It's very difficult to get a foot in the door this way.
Another way to try out for WWE is to tryout for their reality program, called Tough Enough. The show follows wrestlers who compete for a contract with WWE. The Miz, Ryback, and Big E were all contestants on Tough Enough.
18. **Put in your time in NXT.** Almost all new recruits are sent to NXT, which is the training facility and wrestling promotion located in Orlando, FL, before joining the main WWE roster. There, you'll take promo classes, learn the details of TV production and working the camera, and hone your craft even more with some of the best wrestlers from around the world.
At any given time, there are roughly 70 trainees signed to NXT, 10-15 of whom are featured on the NXT programming on the WWE network. Of them, maybe 5 or so from any given group will come to the main roster. NXT has produced such wrestlers as Dean Ambrose, Bray Wyatt, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Neville.
19. **Stand out from the crowd.** The only sure way to make it to the main WWE roster? Shine. There's an "it" factor that every wrestler needs to have. It's something that can't be taught. You've got to have the charisma that will make people want to watch you, buy your merch, and follow your career. Find some way to distinguish yourself from the rest of the wrestlers on the card and take your spot.
There's no one way to be, because it's about being different. Daniel Bryan fits nobody's mold of what a WWE wrestler should look like or act like, but he is a huge superstar because of his "every man" style. Find yours. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-WWE-Superstar", "language": "en"} |
How to Relieve Chronic Constipation | Constipation is the most common digestive complaint in the United States, affecting 42 million people. Constipation occurs when food waste moves slowly through the digestive system, leaving water in the food waste to be absorbed by the colon and ultimately resulting in hard, dry, and small stools that are difficult or painful to pass. Though the definition of constipation can vary person-to-person, most physicians consider the official definition of chronic constipation to be fewer than 3 bowel movements per week for 4-6 months. Many people can find long-lasting relief from chronic constipation by adjusting their lifestyle and nutritional habits.
1. **Drink more fluids.** Dehydration can worsen constipation by leading to hard, dry stools. When food waste passes through the colon, the colon absorbs water from the waste. If you are drinking adequate amounts of fluids, the colon will soak up less water from the food waste, resulting in softer stools.
Try to drink about 8 full glasses of water a day, or about 2 litres (8.5 c). Start your day with 2 glasses right after you wake up, even before coffee.
You should drink more water if you live in a very warm climate or when it's hot out. Be sure to also drink water while exercising to counteract the water lost through sweating.
You may also need to drink more water as you increase your daily intake of fiber.
If you suffer from heart or kidney problems and are receiving medical attention for either of these conditions, consult your doctor about your fluid intake before you make any major changes.
2. **Increase your fiber intake.** A healthy diet includes insoluble and soluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps the body to absorb more nutrients from the food you eat. Insoluble fiber does not break down in the body, but this type of fiber adds bulk and water to the stool, making it faster and more comfortable to pass the stool. Adults should aim to consume about 21-38 grams of fiber daily, depending on their age and sex. Women should eat 21-25 grams of fiber every day, while men require 30-38 grams.
Sources of soluble fiber include oats, oat bran, apples, nuts, lentils and peas. Sources of insoluble fiber include wheat bran, seeds, almonds, whole grains, and most fruits and vegetables.
Make sure to eat legumes and citrus fruits. In addition to fiber, these foods help colonic bacteria flourish which keeps the intestines healthier. Legumes in particular are among those foods that have the most fiber per serving.
Incorporate prunes into your diet. Prunes are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber and sorbitol, which has a natural laxative effect.
Add more whole fruits and vegetables to your diet. Make sure you eat the skins on fruits and veggies, since the skin usually contains most of the insoluble fiber. Also be sure to eat whole fruits instead of fruit juices, which usually have less fiber and more sugar.
3. **Cut back on low-fiber foods.** These would include meat, ice cream, cheese, chips, meat, fast foods, and prepared and processed foods like hot dogs and frozen dinners. These low-fiber but high-fat foods may actually worsen constipation.
4. **Avoid junk food.** Fatty, sugary foods like cookies, crackers, cakes, and so on, tend to slow the digestive system down, since the gut is working to get all the calories it can from the fat in them. Try to avoid eating processed junk food.
5. **Regulate your caffeine intake.** Caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and soda have a diuretic effect and can lead to dehydration. However, caffeinated beverages can also promote contractions in the bowels and lead to bowel movements. In general, try to limit yourself to one cup of a caffeinated beverage per day, preferably in the morning to stimulate the bowels.
6. **Get regular.** Go to the bathroom at the same time each morning. Make this part of your morning routine because it is at this time that colonic motor activity is highest. In addition, the urge to have a bowel movement generally increases after you've had a meal, so try to take advantage of these natural signals from your body.
Eat on a regular schedule to help "train" your body to regulate defecation. Try to eat your main meals around the same time each day. Your bowels love a routine!
Since the mornings are peak times for bowel movements, make sure you eat high-fiber foods after you wake up. You may also want to include a hot drink (such as a cup of coffee) since warm beverages are calming and can help get the bowels moving.
7. **Go to the bathroom when you need to go.** Start listening to your body and don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement because you want to wait until you get home or you want to finish the movie you were watching. The movements that trigger a bowel movement, called peristalsis, come and go, meaning that if you don't go immediately, that urge may disappear. The longer stool stays in the bowel, the harder it gets as more water is reabsorbed, usually resulting in a more painful and uncomfortable bowel movement when you finally have one.
8. **Get in the right position.** The position in which you try to eliminate stool can help you stimulate the bowels, although it is important to note that there is no right or wrong way to sit on the toilet. The following tips, however, might help make having a bowel movement easier and less painful:
When you sit down on the toilet, place your feet on a small footstool. This helps to get your knees higher than your hips, which positions the rectum at such an angle that makes it easier to pass feces.
Try leaning forward when sitting on the toilet. Rest your hands on your thighs. The leaning forward action will also help to get your rectum at a better angle.
Try to stay relaxed and breathe deeply. Relax your anal sphincter to open your rectum and let the stool pass out.
9. **Exercise.** Many people experience an improvement in their constipation when they begin exercising or increase the amount of exercise they get. Doctors believe exercise helps food move more quickly through the large intestine. This means the colon has less time to absorb water from the stool. Aerobic exercise increases breathing and heart rate which can also stimulate the intestinal muscles to contract, which is an important factor in moving stools through the intestines.
Do an aerobic exercise that gets your heart rate up for a period of at least 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times a week. If you can, try to do some exercise every day, even just walking for 15-20 minutes. Daily exercise will hopefully stimulate daily bowel movements because as you become active so do your bowels.
Incorporate a more intensely aerobic exercise or non-competitive sports into your routine if you are already moderately active. Try running, swimming, or aerobic classes.
Abdominal strengthening exercises can also help stimulate the muscles in the digestive system.
10. **Catch up on your sleep.** Lack of adequate sleep over a long time aggravates constipation and can lead to a more severe condition.
Try to get between 7-8 hours a night of restful sleep. The bowels can also "sleep " night, so when you wake up, you may be able to have a bowel movement since that is the peak time!
11. **Relax your mind.** Because mental stress can interfere with relaxation of the whole body, including the bowels, it's important to use some type of relaxation technique daily. Doctors believe that some patients cannot push properly when having a bowel movement because they feel rushed and stressed out. In other words, stress increases constipation.
Take up relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, swimming, etc. Read a book or watch a movie to escape to another world.
12. **Use bulk-forming agents (or fiber).** Fiber helps absorb fluid in your intestines and make your stool bulkier, which in turn helps the bowels contract and push the stool out. It is important, however, that you try to incorporate more fiber into your diet before trying a supplement as this is truly the best way to get more fiber. Most bulk-forming agents can be taken in capsule or powder form and mixed with 8 oz of water or fruit juice. Follow any directions on the label and only take the recommended dosage. Potential side effects include increased flatulence, cramping, and bloating. Most people see results within 12 hours to 3 days Common bulk-forming laxatives include:
Psyllium - Psyllium is a soluble fiber used to increase bulk and stimulate the bowels to contract and release stool with ease. A significant amount of research has suggested that psyllium can relieve constipation. You can find psyllium in the widely available product Metamucil. You must drink at least 8 oz of liquid when you take psyllium.
Polycarbophil - Polycarbophil calcium has been shown in several studies to help treat chronic constipation.
13. **Take lubricant laxatives.** With the main ingredient being mineral oil, lubricants work by coating the surface of stool, which helps the stool keep fluid and pass more easily. Most people see results within hours of consumption. Popular brand names available in most pharmacies include Fleet and Zymenol. Lubricants are simple and inexpensive laxatives, but should only be used as a short-term prescription. The mineral oil in lubricants can decrease the effectiveness of certain prescription drugs and can also inhibit the absorption of fat-soluble vitamin and minerals in your body.
Lubricant laxatives are generally taken at bedtime and may be taken orally on an empty stomach and in an upright position. Be sure to drink at least 8 oz of water or juice after you take this laxative.
Physicians do not recommend mineral oil for persistent treatment of constipation.
14. **Take emollient laxatives.** Better known as stool softeners, emollient laxatives, such as Colace and Docusate, work to increase the amount of water in the stool and to thereby soften it. These laxatives take longer to work (usually 1-3 days) but are commonly used by those who are recovery from surgery, women who have just given birth, and individuals suffering from hemorrhoids.
Stool softeners come in capsule, tablet, and liquid form, and are generally taken at bedtime. Follow any directions on the label and take only the recommended dosage. Make sure to take capsules and tablets with a full glass of water.
For liquid stool softeners, there should be a marked dropper that helps you measure the exact dose. Ask the pharmacist for help if you're not sure how to use it. Mix the liquid 4 oz of juice or milk to mask its bitter taste and to make it easier to get down.
15. **Take osmotic laxatives.** Osmotic agents help your stool retain fluid and increase the number of bowel movements. Osmotic laxatives include Fleet Phospho-Soda, Milk of Magnesia, and Miralax, all of which work to draw fluid into the intestines from surrounding tissue. Potential side effects include dehydration, gas, cramps, and a mineral imbalance in your system. Older adults and people with existing heart or kidney problems should be careful when taking osmotic agents because of their dehydrating properties.
Osmotic agents come in pill or powder form. Miralax, for example, is a powder that should be dissolved in 4-8 oz of water or fruit juice. The bottle comes with a measure device so that you can take the appropriate dosage (17 g). You can also buy single-dose packets. Follow any other directions on the bottle and only take the recommended dosage.
16. **Take stimulant laxatives.** Stimulant laxatives cause the intestines to contract, which moves stool quickly and pushes it out. You should only use stimulants if your constipation is severe and you feel like you require immediate relief. Stimulant laxatives should not be used on a continuing basis to treat chronic constipation. You should see results within 6-10 hours. Popular brands include Ex-Lax, Dulcolax, and Correctol. These laxatives can cause cramping and diarrhea.
Stimulant laxatives can be taken orally (in pill, powder, or liquid form) or as a rectal suppository. Always take stimulant laxatives as directed and take only the recommended dosage. This type of laxative is generally taken at bedtime.
Stimulant laxatives are the harshest laxatives on the body. They should not be used regularly or daily because they can weaken the body's ability to have a bowel movement on its own. They can also limit your body's ability to absorb vitamin D and calcium. Consult your physician if you're using these laxatives for more than one week.
17. **Try natural or herbal laxatives.** There are also a number of remedies to relieve constipation that involve household ingredients and/or herbs. However, you should note that many of these are not supported by strong scientific research. Consult with your pediatrician before giving any of these remedies to your child. Some of the most popular natural or herbal remedies for constipation include:
Aloe vera - Aloe juice or aloe latex, a yellow, bitter liquid derived from the skin of the aloe leaf, is a powerful laxative and can stimulate bowel movements. However, it can cause painful cramping and physicians do not recommend its use as a laxative.
Blackstrap molasses - Mix 2 teaspoons (9.9 mL) of blackstrap molasses in 1 cup (240 mL) of warm water. Then drink up. Blackstrap molasses is rich in magnesium, which helps ease bowel movements.
Lemon juice - Lemon juice helps to cleanse the intestine and induce bowel movements. Add 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of lemon juice to 1 cup (240 mL) of warm water and add a pinch of salt. Drink the solution on an empty stomach.
18. **Note that all of these OTC treatments should only be temporary.** If you find yourself using a laxative for more than 1 week, you should consult your physician. Laxative abuse can actually worsen constipation, as your body may come to rely on the laxative in order to pass a stool.
Never use laxatives to be "regular". Always try to incorporate more fiber into your diet first.
19. **Understand that chronic constipation is common and has multiple causes.** Chronic constipation affects between 15% and 20% of Americans. Even people who eat healthily, exercise, and drink lots of water can still suffer from chronic constipation.
Lifestyle issues - Constipation has been related to a number of factors related to lifestyle and diet, including inadequate water intake, inadequate fiber intake, over-consumption of dairy, and a lack of exercise, among others.
Existing or new medical conditions - Some medical conditions can cause changes in the bowels and chronic constipation, including colon cancer, hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome, Parkinson's disease, and diabetes.
Medications - Medications that often have constipation as a side effect include pain medications, antacids like calcium and aluminum, calcium channel blockers, iron supplements, and diuretics among others.
Aging - As people get older, they become more sedentary (and get less physical activity), eat less fiber and drink less water, all of which contributes to chronic constipation. In addition, many over-the-counter and prescription medications taken to treat conditions more common in older people, such as arthritis, back pain, and hypertension, can cause chronic constipation.
Psychological issues - For some people, chronic constipation is related to specific psychological issues, including depression, sexual or physical abuse, or loss of a family member or friend, among other emotional triggers.
Nerve and muscle function in the bowels - In some cases, lack of proper nerve and muscle function can cause constipation. In particular, in cases of pelvic floor dysfunction (dyssynergic defecation), the muscles of the lower pelvis surrounding the rectum do not function properly and can cause constipation.
20. **Take note of your symptoms.** Some physicians believe that chronic constipation cannot solely be determined by the frequency of bowel movements, but that a host of other symptoms need to be assessed, or what has been termed a "symptom complex". These include:
Hard stools.
Excessive straining when having a bowel movement.
A lack of feeling of relief after a bowel movement or a sense that the bowel movement was incomplete.
A sensation that you are unable to have a bowel movement.
A decrease in frequency of bowel movements (fewer than 3 per week over a period of several months)
21. **Make an appointment with a doctor.** If the dietary and lifestyle changes discussed above do not relieve constipation, consult your primary care physician. It's important to seek medical attention if you suffer from chronic constipation or if constipation is new to you, as it can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition.
Be prepared to provide your doctor with information on your constipation, including the number of times per week you pass a stool, how long you have experienced difficulty defecating, and a list of any medications you may be taking. Be sure as well to tell your doctor of any treatments you have undertaken, including laxatives and lifestyle or dietary changes.
Your doctor will perform a rectal examination to check for tears, hemorrhoids, and any other abnormalities, and then do laboratory testing to screen you for different diseases and conditions. If after these tests and a comprehensive medical history interview the cause of your constipation is still uncertain, your doctor may order an imaging study of the colon and rectum to check for more serious problems, such as an obstruction.
In severe cases, your doctor may order more tests or refer you to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Relieve-Chronic-Constipation", "language": "en"} |
How to Grow Potted Plants | Growing potted plants lets you skip the dirty work of weeding and clearing a soil bed. Instead, you can get right to the fun stuff! Start by providing the light and soil conditions that your specific plants prefer. When you're ready to plant, nestle your plants into the pot, and soak the soil to help them settle into their new home. Water, fertilize, and prune them regularly, and keep an eye out for pests and diseases. With a little effort, you can keep your plants green throughout the growing season or, depending on the species, for years to come.
1. **Choose containers with drainage holes.** Pots come in plenty of colours, shapes, and sizes, but the most important consideration is drainage. Make sure any container you purchase has small holes at the bottom so your plants’ roots won’t drown. Unglazed clay (terra cotta) pots provide better soil aeration than plastic pots and decrease the risk of water logging.
If you can't live without a pot that doesn’t have drainage holes, purchase a slightly smaller plastic container that has drainage holes and fits inside the pot without holes.
Grab the saucer that matches your pot. A saucer fits under the pot, collects drained water, and prevents messes.
2. **Select light-loving plants if you plan to put them in full sun.** The best location where you’ll keep the pot depends on the type of plants you purchase. Keep plants with tags labelled “full-sun” in outdoor sun-soaked spots and indoor areas by windows.
If you have a spot for the pot in mind, observe the area before purchasing your plants. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. If it doesn’t, go for a plant marked for shade or partial sun.
Full-sun options include most flowering plants, such as petunias, geraniums, salvias, true lilies, canna lilies, and lilacs. Other sun-loving plants include those that bear fruits and vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Most herbs, including basil, lavender, and thyme, also require lots of sun.
3. **Opt for shade plants to put in spots that don’t get much sunlight.** When you’re at the nursery or home improvement store, check for plant tags marked “shade-tolerant” or “moderate sun.” This means the plants need around 3 hours of sunlight or less per day.
Good flowering options include begonias, impatiens, crocuses, periwinkle, lilies of the valley, and some tulips. Ajuga and coleus are shade tolerant and produce attractive leaves in a range of colors.
While they grow best with moderate sun, spider and snake plants tolerate low light levels. They're popular houseplants and require little maintenance.
4. **Use potting soil that has the right drainage requirements for your plants.** Topsoil from your yard would dry out and clump, and store-bought garden soil is too dense to allow proper drainage. If you have a bag of garden soil and don’t want to splurge on potting soil, combine equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite (see also ).
Store-bought potting soil is the best choice for most plants. However, some have specific requirements. If you’re planting orchids, you’ll need to get a growing medium that’s full of bark and other large chunks of organic matter.
Perlite is a volcanic mineral material that increases soil aeration.
Vermiculite is a clay mineral. It can help retain moisture while allowing aeration, though it's compressible, so perlite is better for aeration. Vermiculite increases the cation exchange capacity (CEC, the ability of the soil to retain positively-charged nutrient ions such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium).
Fruits and vegetables prefer nutrient-rich clay or loam soils that retain moisture.
Cacti and other succulents prefer well-drained, sandy soil. Go for a store-bought cactus mix or combine equal parts of sand and potting soil.
5. **Amend the soil if necessary to ensure it has the right pH.** You can test your soil's pH and amend it to suit your plants' preferences. Add sphagnum peat or sulfur to make it more acidic, and powdered limestone or wood ashes to make it less acidic.
Some plants, such as banksias and grevilleas, are phosphorus-sensitive and need a low-acid, low-phosphorus soil. On the other hand, camellias and azaleas thrive in phosphorus-rich acidic soil. Some mineral nutrients (including iron, manganese, boron, copper, and zinc) are more readily available in acidic soils. Fertilizers that are specifically for acid-loving plants are often enhanced with these nutrients.
When shopping for potting mixes, match the soil's pH and phosphorus levels to the recommendations on your plants' tags.
6. **Provide the right amount of space for your plants.** Shrubs, like hibiscus, fuchsia, and bougainvillea, and plants that bear fruits and vegetables typically need lots of room to grow. Go for containers that are at least 1 to 2 feet (30 to 61 cm) deep and hold at least 5 to 10 gallons (19 to 38 L) of soil.
Plants like rubber trees, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots usually do best on their own. They have large root systems and consume lots of nutrients.
Plants with more modest root systems, like pansies, dusty millers, daisies, ajugas, creeping Jenny, and succulents, do well with other plants. To allow room for growth, space them about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart, or according to the instructions on their tags.
7. **In spite of what you’ve heard or read, do not put rocks or gravel in the bottom of the pot.** Many people do this because they think it will improve drainage but it has the opposite effect.
Fine soil retains water more readily than coarse soil does, so fine soil on top of coarse-grained material results in a perched water table. Water is held more tightly in the small spaces between fine soil particles than in the large spaces between coarse soil particles.
For this reason, loose “filler material” at the bottom of the pot actually interferes with proper drainage.
To improve drainage, mix coarse sand or perlite throughout the soil profile in the pot.
Pots are a pretty unnatural environment for most plants so generally a deeper pot with an even balance between aeration and water retention throughout the soil profile will make your plants happier.
8. **Add soil to within 2 inches (5.1 cm) of the container’s rim.** Dump the bag of potting soil into a large container, or use a trowel to fill a small pot. Keep the soil loose, and shake the pot to even out mounds instead of packing it. Leaving about 2 inches (5.1 cm) between the top of the soil and the container’s rim will allow you to water the container without it spilling over the edge.
The space between the soil and rim will also give you room to scoop out holes for the plants.
9. **Water your plants thoroughly, then knock them out of their plastic cup.** Soak your plants to prepare them for transplant. Pick one up, and place your hand on top of the cup so the plant’s stem is between your fingers. Turn the cup upside down and carefully squeeze the sides of the cup to remove the roots and soil ball.
Don’t pull the stem to remove the plant from the cup, and try to disturb the roots as little as possible.
Knock the plants out of their cups one by one. Remove a plant from its cup, transplant it, then move on to the next.
10. **Massage the root ball gently to encourage growth.** After removing the cup, lightly massage the roots with your fingertips to loosen them from the soil. Don’t unravel the root ball, rub hard, or work away all of the soil. You just want to loosen the roots a bit to encourage them to spread out in their new home.
11. **Dig a hole equal in size to the plant's root ball.** Dig a hole in the center of the soil bed large enough to accommodate the root ball. It should be deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stem) will be level with the top of the soil. Place the root ball in the hole, then fill in soil to level the surface.
If you’re just growing one plant in an individual pot, you don’t have to worry about planning the arrangement or spacing other plants.
12. **Place the tallest plants in the middle, if you’re using a variety of plants.** Start by scooping a hole in the center for the tallest plant. Place the root system in the hole so the plant’s crown is level with the top of the soil, then fill in the hole so the surface is even.
For example, if you have tall grass, spiky Dracaena, or phormium, plant it in the center of the pot. Provided you have a deep enough pot, azaleas, hibiscus, and elephant ears work well as tall focal points.
13. **Add smaller plants closer to the container’s edges.** When you're finished with the tallest plant, work your way toward the edges as you you plant flowers, vines, or other smaller specimens. Create a middle layer of flowering or brightly-colored plants, and place vines that will spill out over the sides of the pot about 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the edges.
Great filler plants include coleus, ajugas, and hostas. Petunias, salvias, pansies, and geraniums are popular choices that add pops of color.
Good spillers, or plants with foliage that trails over the pot's edges, include creeping Jenny, clematis, English ivy, and sedum.
Space the plants about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart from each other, or according to the instructions on their tags. Don’t worry if the container looks a bit sparse. Your plants need room to grow, and they’ll fill in empty spaces within a few weeks.
14. **Soak the soil when you finish planting.** Thoroughly soaking the soil will help prevent transplant shock. Water the container until the pot starts to drain and the top of the soil is saturated. Depending on the container’s size, it could take several minutes to water it completely. Water will drain from the bottom of the container, so be sure to place the pot on a saucer.
Stop watering when you see water leaking from the drainage holes at the bottom.
Room temperature water is ideal, especially for tropical plants, like elephant ear, bougainvillea, and orchids. If water from your hose or faucet feels ice cold, fill a pitcher or watering can and allow it to warm to room temperature.
Tap water is usually fine, as long as you don't use water softeners. Water treated with softeners can cause salt buildup. Distilled water is best for carnivorous plants, like pitcher plants and Venus fly traps. They prefer low-nutrient soil and don't like the minerals in tap water.
15. **Keep a saucer under the pot to catch drained water.** A saucer will prevent dirty water from pooling on your floor, windowsill or desk. Empty the saucer about an hour after watering to prevent root rot.
If the container is too heavy to lift and you can’t remove the saucer, use a bulb baster to suck up the water.
16. **Water the pot** The right amount of water depends on your plants, the size of your container, and whether you keep the pot indoors or outdoors. As a general rule, stick your finger into the soil and water only when it’s dry.
If the soil is moist and your finger can easily penetrate it, don't water the pot. If the soil feels dry and your finger can't easily penetrate it, your plant needs water.
For most plants, watering thoroughly and letting the soil dry completely is better than keeping the soil damp. Roots can't grow through dry soil, but too much water prevents the roots from getting enough oxygen.
Most flowering plants, fruits, vegetables, and herbs need to be watered daily. Cacti and other succulents should only be watered every 2 to 4 days at most.
When in doubt, check your plants’ tags and water them as directed.
17. **Add slow-release fertilizer beads monthly, or as the tag recommends.** Nutrients leech from the soil every time you water, so you’ll need to fertilize your potted plant regularly. All-purpose fertilizer beads that release nutrients over time are good for most plants, but you should check plant tags for specific instructions.
Use about 1/2 teaspoon of fertilizer beads for 1 gallon (3.8 L) of soil. Spread the granules over the soil, and use your fingers or a small trowel to work it about 2 inches (5.1 cm) deep.
Different nutrient deficiencies have different symptoms. Old leaves could be more affected than young leaves, or the reverse. Leaves can turn yellow around the edges, or between the veins. See for a pdf file on nutrient deficiency symptoms.
In general, flowering plants, fruits, and vegetables need more nutrients than herbs and succulents. During mid-season, or when they produce ripe fruit, fertilize plants like tomatoes and peppers every 1 to 2 weeks. Keep an eye out for yellow leaves, which could indicate you're over-fertilizing.
A white crust on the soil surface can be a sign that you're not watering enough, or you're applying too much fertilizer. Plant fertilizers are salts, and can accumulate on the soil surface as water evaporates. Salts interfere with the plant's ability to take up water. You might need to apply more water, without increasing the frequency of watering. If you see a salt crust, water abundantly (outdoors or in the sink), allowing a lot of water to drain from the bottom of the pot to flush salts from the soil.
You don't have to be fussy about fertilizing herbs, like basil, cilantro, lavender, and rosemary. They're prone to over-fertilization, so 1 application every 3 to 4 months is best.
Cacti and other succulents only need to be fertilized once or twice a year.
18. **Prune your plants** Use clean pruning shears to cut dead flowers and leaves. Trim them at a 45 degree angle just below the brown or dead area. Clip new growth at a 45 degree angle about ⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) above the nodule to keep a rapidly growing plant in check.
The nodule looks like a small bump or bud where new growth emerges.
If you’re clipping herbs or pruning a rapid grower, avoid removing more than 30% of the plant at a time. Clipping too much can shock and kill the plant.
Pruning encourages new growth and will lead to fuller, more robust plants.
19. **Cut off any part of the plant that has rot or fungus.** In addition to regular pruning, you’ll need to remove diseased leaves as soon as you spot them. Signs of disease include black or brown spots, yellowing, white patches, and foul odor. If the problem persists, purchase an antifungal spray labelled for plants.
Look for a fungicide formulated for your specific plant at a gardening center. Read its instructions, and apply it as directed.
Common plant diseases include black or white fungal and bacterial blights, fungal rusts (which are characterized by a rust-colored coating), and cankers, or areas of dead, oozing tissue on wood stems.
20. **Houseplant pests can often be controlled by mechanical (non-chemical) methods.** Small arthropods (insects, mites) can often be controlled by removing them with a soft brush, applying non-toxic sprays such as neem oil or soapy water (see below) or, if there aren't too many, gently scraping them off with a fingernail. If your plant is sturdy enough, simply spraying with water can knock some insects off. Sticky materials such as yellow card traps or goo such as Tanglefoot® catch some insects.
Common pests include aphids, ants, gnats, spider mites, and whiteflies. While aphids, ants, and flies are visible, mites are tough to spot. Look for patches of fine webbing with tiny, barely visible specks. Signs of mite infestation include tiny light green spots on leaves and stems, yellow discoloration, and curled or dead leaves.
Tiny insects such as aphids, scales, spider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs, etc. can usually be controlled by spraying with soapy water. The soap isn't toxic. It breaks the surface tension of the water, allowing it to get the insects thoroughly wet and block their spiracles (breathing holes) so they drown. Many sprays sold in garden stores list "potassium salts of fatty acids" as the active ingredient. That's the chemical description for dish soap. Spray with a well-diluted solution of dish soap and save your money.
If you need to use synthetic chemicals, look for an insecticide at a garden center. If you keep your plant indoors, make sure the product is labelled for houseplants. Most plant insecticides are recommended for specific plants and pests. Read your product’s instructions and use it as directed. Check labels for your plants or ask an employee at the garden center for help. Consider the safety for children and pets, and apply sprays outdoors if possible. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Potted-Plants", "language": "en"} |
How to Host a Book Club | Hosting a book club is a fun and rewarding experience. As host, there’s a lot you can do to make the monthly meeting a success. First, decide on the basics like when and where the meeting will be, and what book your club will be reading. Offer snacks and beverages for your club members. If you’re leading the conversation, prepare some questions about the book and work to keep the conversation going.
1. **Select the book you’ll be discussing.** Book clubs use lots of different methods to choose new books. Typically, the book selected for the next club meeting is decided during the prior meeting.
Books on the “100 Best Books” list of a major periodical are good choices, as are current bestsellers.
Consider both fiction and nonfiction when choosing a book.
2. **Choose a meeting place.** Some book clubs can be hosted in your home. If your home is too small to host the book club, or if you simply don’t want to host the club meeting at your home, choose a communal location like a library conference room or a cafe.
If you plan on hosting at a library, be sure to reserve a conference room well in advance of the book club meeting. You might not be able to get one at the last minute.
3. **Set the date and time.** If your book club has a regular meeting date and time (for instance, 8:00 every first Monday of the month), there’s no need to set the date and time. However, if the date and time of your book club varies, decide when the meeting will occur and let the club members know.
There are many ways to let club members know when the next meeting will be. You could, for instance, call each of them with the information. You could also send a mass email containing the date and time.
If you prefer a more personal touch, you could mail out an invitation with the relevant information.
4. **Designate a conversation leader.** The structure of each book club is a bit different, and there are no strict rules regarding how to designate a leader. In fact, some book clubs don’t have a leader at all. However, selecting a leader can help the conversation stay on topic and enrich the book club meeting.
The book club’s host often doubles as the conversation leader.
You could also choose to invite a subject matter expert to lead the meeting. For instance, if you’re reading a book about the French Revolution, you might invite a local professor of French history to lead the conversation.
Alternately, your book club might decide to choose a single leader who runs every book club meeting.
English teachers, librarians, or authors often make good book club leaders.
5. **Look up some study questions for your book.** If you’re both the host and the conversation leader, having some questions about the book is crucial to keep the conversation focused and flowing. Even if you are not the conversation leader, though, having some questions ready to ask the group can make your meeting more enjoyable.
If your book club is reading a well-known book, you’ll probably be able to find some study guides with questions in them online (or in book stores). For instance, if you’re reading 1984, you might run a search like "1984 study questions” through your preferred search engine.
If you’re reading a book that doesn’t have questions available for it online, read the book carefully and come up with some open-ended questions that can elicit thoughtful reactions from club members.
6. **Encourage club members to turn their phones off.** Phones can be a serious distraction from conducting an effective book club. Before the meeting begins, ask everyone kindly to turn their phones off. Use a friendly tone when doing so.
7. **Ask club members to write down questions or comments.** At the beginning of the book club, hand everyone a pen or pencil and an index card. Encourage them to write a question or comment on an index card. Collect the cards before you get started, then read them out loud (or hand them to the conversation leader to read aloud). Invite responses to these questions and comments.
Having book club participants write their thoughts on index cards can allow club members who are less outgoing to share their thoughts, too.
This is also a useful method for facilitating conversation on controversial books.
8. **Plan to socialize after you’ve discussed the book.** Hosting and attending a book club should be fun, but some people like to use book club time to chat with friends. Include a designated social time at the end of the meeting for such off-topic conversations. That way, people who are there to talk and think more about the book get the opportunity to do so.
If a club member is talking excessively and wandering off-topic, help them refocus their attention on the book with gentle but firm directions.
For instance, if someone is talking about their weekend plans instead of about what they think of the book, transition back to the conversation by saying “Let’s talk about the third chapter. Was anyone surprised by the protagonist’s decision?”
9. **Select a theme for the book club.** In addition to “regular” snacks like cheese and crackers, look for simple recipes that reflect the cuisine of a particular region, country or setting in the book. For example, if the story was set in Italy, you might serve bruschetta and Italian wine. Additionally, you could emphasize the theme of your club meeting by including some decor that evokes a character or setting from the book.
For instance, if you’re reading Alice in Wonderland you could purchase some themed items (including coasters, candles, or decorative art) that refer to Alice and her adventures around the meeting space.
Don’t forget to offer some beverages to help wash down the snacks. Wine, water, coffee, tea, and soda are the easiest options.
10. **Find out what sort of snacks your group wants.** After deciding on the theme, ask for suggestions from book club members regarding what snacks they’d like, if any. If your meeting does not have a specific theme, simple snacks like crackers, cookies, and crisps are popular options.
Some book clubs are happy without snacks of any kind. Others leave it to each group member to bring their own snacks. Still others leave it to the host to prepare snacks or hors d’oeuvres.
When hosting a book club, be sure to ask about food allergies and dietary preferences before preparing a snack.
11. **Include some general book-themed decor.** Instead of selecting a specific book-related theme for your book club meeting, you might want to introduce general book-centric paraphernalia to set the mood. If you’re hosting the club in your home, there are many options available for sprucing up a regular living room or other space with book club-themed items.
For instance, you might be able to obtain pillow covers or pillows embroidered with images of books.
You could place some bookish art (such as art printed on book pages or paintings of people reading) around the meeting space. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Host-a-Book-Club", "language": "en"} |
How to Tell the Difference Between Possums and Opossums: Appearance & Behavior | What’s the difference between possums and opossums? Aren’t they the same thing? Opossums are the classic creature you’ve probably seen running across your neighborhood. They’re known to be fearful, fuzzy, and clever. Possums, however, are an entirely different species you don’t encounter much in North America. They're closely related to kangaroos, and you won’t ever see them “playing dead”. To finally figure out the differences between these two creatures, here’s a guide to determine whether you’re referring to a possum or an opossum!
1. **Possums and opossums are different animals.** Although they have similar names and both are marsupials, possums have entirely different physical and behavioral traits than opossums. Opossums are the only marsupials native to North America, while possums are a species from Australia and New Guinea.
2. **Opossums belong to a different animal order than possums.** Opossums belong to the Didelphimorphia order, which is one family of marsupials. Possums belong to the Diprotodontia order, which consists of 10 families found only in Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, and surrounding islands.
3. **There are more possum species than opossum species.** There are around 70 species of possums, with over 30 in Australia alone. In contrast, there are only a few dozen species of opossums in North America, with the Virginia opossum as the most common.
Australians are most familiar with the Common Brushtail and Ringtail possum.
4. **Opossums have hairless tails, while possums have furry ones.** The opossum has a long, hairless tail that spans almost ⅓ of its total body length. In contrast, the Australian possum has a thick, furry tail that helps it climb trees.
It’s a myth that adult opossums can hang upside down by their tail! Opossums have prehensile tails (able to easily grip objects) but they cannot support their entire body weight with just their tail.
5. **Opossums have gray fur, while possums have various-colored fur.** Opossums are known for their streaked gray fur and pointed white faces. Possums also have pointed faces, but their coat comes in a wider range of colors–golden brown, silver-gray, and black.
Possums have smoother, silkier fur than opossums, making them a target of the fur trade industry in New Zealand. An average of 1.5 million possums are killed annually.
6. **Opossums are larger in size than possums.** Opossums are around 2.5 feet (76 cm) from nose to tail, and they weigh between 9 pounds (4.1 kg) to 13 pounds (5.9 kg). Possums are closer to 2 feet (61 cm) long and weigh between 3 pounds (1.4 kg) to 11 pounds (5.0 kg).
7. **Opossums “play dead” in defense, while possums exert scent marks.** When threatened by predators, both creatures make hissing noises as a defense mechanism, but only opossums pretend to be sick/dead to avoid confrontation.
Possums are usually shy, but they will exert scent marks from their chest glands to mark territory.
When playing dead, opossums emit a foul scent to mimic death–it’s often described as corpse-like.
8. **Possums are friendly toward humans, while opossums are afraid.** Unlike their North American counterparts, possums are friendly creatures adapted to humans and urban life. Opossums are more fearful toward humans, so they're more likely to hiss or feign death than attack.
Opossums rarely show aggression or bite humans, but mother opossums will attack to protect their young!
9. **Possums are mostly herbivores, while opossums are omnivores.** The possum’s diet usually consists of fruit, flowers, and herbs, but they occasionally indulge in small insects or eggs. Opossums scavenge for just about anything–fruit, insects, mice, and even venomous snakes!
It’s estimated that an opossum can eat up to 5,000 ticks per year, protecting humans and wildlife from Lyme disease. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Possum-vs-Opossum", "language": "en"} |
How to Reset Your Life | If you feel like you're stuck in a rut or you're just not happy with the way things are going, you might want to shake things up. Hitting the reset button on your life might seem like a lot of work, but taking a few small steps at a time can lead to some big changes. And remember—recognizing that you need a change is a big step on its own, so you're already well on your way to a fresh start!
1. **Think about what you really want from the future.** If you can see the way you'd like your new life to be, you'll be more likely to get there. Be as specific as you can about what you want, but don't be afraid to change your vision if you find yourself pulled in a new direction.
Spend time every day picturing yourself living your dream, including how you'll feel when you have the life you want. Visualizing your goals can give you a lot of power toward accomplishing them—and it will also help you be very clear on what goals are the most important to you.
Start by thinking about the big picture, then gradually work out more details.
2. **Ask yourself if your life is aligned with those values.** Your core values are the beliefs and convictions that guide your thoughts and behaviors throughout your life. Most people have about five to seven core values. To figure out what your core values are, think about what you really stand for. Then, ask yourself if your life reflects those beliefs.
If one of your values is spending time with your family but your job makes you miss important milestones and special occasions, you might take a look at whether you're really satisfied with your career.
Although these values are things you believe deeply, they do change over time. If you're doing a reset on your life, it might be time to reconsider what's most important to you.
3. **Make sure your goals are SMART.** That stands for specific, measurable, achievable, results-oriented, and time-bound. If your goals meet all of these criteria, you'll be more likely to accomplish them than you would if you just have a vague idea of things you'd like to do "someday."
Think about what could possibly stand in your way as you're working toward your goals, then plan how you're going to overcome those obstacles.
4. **Start with things you can do right away.** Don't get overwhelmed by focusing too much on your end goal. Instead, think about specific steps you need to take to achieve those goals. That way, you can stay focused on what you need to do next, and it will be easier to keep progressing. You'll also feel more encouraged when you see yourself knocking down smaller goals on the path to your larger ones.
Include incentives and rewards for yourself for making changes. For example, if you are quitting smoking, take the money you used to spend on cigarettes and treat yourself to a new blouse, a nice outing, or dinner with a friend.
5. **Look at your life, considering each element one by one.** You can even write each thing down on a piece of paper if you like. Think about your possessions, the situations you're in, and even the people in your life. Does each item bring you joy? If the answer is no, consider how you can get rid of it.
This can apply to everything from whether to keep a certain shirt to whether to keep participating in an activity you used to love. Be objective—even something that used to bring you joy may no longer serve that purpose.
Of course, we'll always have obligations in life that are less enjoyable than others. However, if anything in your life constantly makes you feel depleted or overwhelmed, it's worth really considering how much energy you put into it.
6. **Set aside some quiet time to reflect each day.** The world is noisy and busy, and it's all too easy to fill your entire day with email, social media, TV, music, and chatting. However, it's really important that you take some time during the day to shut out all the noise, especially when you're trying to reset your life. During that time, reflect on your goals and priorities, and what you're doing—or should be doing—to reach those.
For instance, you might take 15 minutes at the start and end of the day and just enjoy some quiet time to yourself.
Some people enjoy relaxing activities like yoga and meditation, or you might prefer to just have a cup of coffee in a quiet spot.
7. **Take the opportunity to make yourself a priority.** When you're resetting your life, think about whether you're fueling your body with foods that make you feel good, or if you're just eating for convenience and to please your tastebuds. Also, try to fit in time for an activity you enjoy at least a few times a week. You'll be more likely to stick to it if you find something you like doing, instead of simply telling yourself you need to exercise more.
For example, you might take a walk around the block when the weather is nice, or you could meet up with friends for a stroll through the park. You might also play a sport you enjoy, take a dance class, or take up cycling.
When you feel good physically, it's a lot easier to make clear decisions about what you want out of life. In addition, you'll feel more confident—and therefore more empowered to make good decisions.
8. **Declutter your space to improve your thinking.** Planning a reset is the perfect time for some spring cleaning. Living in a cluttered, messy space can really impact how you feel about your whole life. Get rid of anything you don't need anymore, and organize the space so it works around how you use it.
When the physical space around you is tidy, it will be a lot easier to focus on other changes you want to make in your life. You'll also feel better about yourself!
9. **Put energy into relationships that make you feel good.** When you're doing a whole-life refresh, think about the people in your life. If there are any people who always make you feel uplifted and put you in a good mood when they're around, reach out to them more often. Even just a quick call or text can help give you a boost when you need it most.
You can't always avoid people who bring a toxic energy into your life. However, you can choose to limit how much time you spend around those people.
When you find yourself feeling overwhelmed with worries, reach out to some of these supportive people—they can help you get some perspective on what's bothering you.
10. **Push yourself to try new things.** It's hard to reset your life if you just keep doing the same things you're used to. Even little changes, like checking out a new restaurant or museum, can help you get a new perspective on things. Getting out of a rut will give you more confidence and help you feel more creative, too.
Don't be afraid to make bigger changes, though—take that class you've been wanting to try, or print up business cards for that side hustle you've been dreaming about. If you're afraid to fail, you'll never take the chance that could lead you to big success.
11. **Learn alternatives to unhealthy behaviors.** Everybody has a few bad habits, and chances are that you already know what yours are. Things like smoking, drinking to excess, overeating, and not getting enough exercise can all undermine your attempts to reset your life. Don't get too down on yourself, though—the way to address these is through positive behavior change, rather than through guilt, fear, or regret.
For example, rather than feeling guilty about not exercising more, decide to include 20 minutes of walking four days per week.
Don't quit just because you slip up—habits are hard to break! If you need to, start by cutting back gradually until you're able to give up the habit completely.
12. **Write down something you're grateful for every day.** Sometimes resetting your life is as simple as changing your mindset. This can be a simple but powerful way to do that. One way to do this is to get in the habit of reflecting on what you're thankful for at the end of each day. If you write them down, you can then read back through your journal when you're feeling discouraged.
When you look for the positive things around you, you're actually more likely to see them. This can help you start to see your situation in a fresh way, and it may give you the boost you need to reset your priorities.
13. **Try to replace them with something positive, instead.** If you notice yourself having a negative thought about a person, place, or thing, turn that thought around. It takes practice, but try to follow that negative thought with a positive observation about the same person, place or thing. You'll notice that when you have a brighter outlook, it will affect more areas of your life than you expected.
For example, if you're going to visit your mother-in-law, rather than attending to the fact that her cooking is always lousy, remember that you'll be able to spend time in her lovely garden.
Apply this to the way you think about yourself, too. For instance, if you make a mistake, don't tell yourself, "I never get anything right." Instead, think, "I can learn from this and do better next time."
14. **Look for lessons in past mistakes, but let go of regret.** Whether you find yourself rehashing bitter experiences or ruminating on the "good old days," your life is what it is today, and it's important to accept that. If you continue to dwell on past experiences, it will block you from moving forward. Instead, reflect on things you've been through. Ask yourself whether there are any insights you can take from those experiences that might help you avoid repeating mistakes in the future.
For example, you might find that you're overextended because you have a hard time saying no to people when they ask you to do things for them. Instead of getting down on yourself about that, resolve that you'll start practicing better boundaries with others.
15. **Let go of any resentment you're holding onto.** Resentment—whether it's towards yourself or others—drains your energy without serving any good purpose. If you've been holding a grudge, a reset is a perfect chance to examine your part of that resentment. Then, let it go.
Being the victim of other people's past actions means putting your happiness into another person's hands, whether they know it or not.
It can help to talk to another person about your resentments. Sometimes another person can offer insights that you can't see on your own.
16. **Don't be afraid to say goodbye.** A reset is a chance to clean up overloaded agendas. Your time is valuable. To do what you want to do, let go of things, people and situations that no longer serve you. Don't be afraid of change—you might just have something amazing waiting just around the corner!
If you are happier and more satisfied in your life, you'll be more present for the people and situations you choose to keep in your life. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Reset-Your-Life", "language": "en"} |
How to Mount a Bicycle | Just learning to ride? The first step is getting on. Here are some instructions on how to get started. Soon you'll be riding off into the sunset on your ten-speed.
1. **Stand on the left side of your bicycle.**
2. **Position the left pedal at the 10:00 position (as on a clock).**
3. **Put your left foot on the left pedal.**
4. **Push off twice on the ground with your right foot, as this will give you enough momentum to swing your right leg over the seat without falling off.**
5. **As your bicycle begins to move, swing your right leg over.**
6. **Sit down on the bicycle seat and pedal away.** Note: If you feel comfortable starting on the right side of the bicycle and pedaling first with the right foot, that's fine too.
7. **Throw your leg over the middle bar and stand flat-footed with one foot on each side of the bike.** You should be standing just in front of the bike seat, and not fully seated yet.
8. **Position one pedal at 10:00 and place your foot on the pedal while leaning a little to the other side.** Your other foot which is still flat on the ground will help you keep your balance.
9. **Push down with the foot on the pedal, and stand up on it at the same time.** This will raise you up and allow you to sit on the seat.
10. **Place your other foot on the pedal, push forward and you are riding!**
11. **Probably want to apply some brake pressure so the bike won't run away
**
12. **Wear a helmet.** This method is not easy.
13. **Start with the left pedal at ten o'clock and stand on the left side of the bike, holding the handlebars.**
14. **Run alongside the bike, pushing the bike by the handlebars until you get up to speed.**
15. **When you're ready to mount, jump off the left foot and swing your right leg over the bike.** You should land with your right thigh on the seat.
16. **Push down on the left pedal and catch the right pedal on its way up.** | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Mount-a-Bicycle", "language": "en"} |
How to Wrap a Groin Injury | The term “groin injury” typically refers to a groin strain, in which one or more of the muscles that help squeeze your legs together have been partially torn. Groin strains are frustrating because they can take 4-8 weeks or longer to fully heal, but properly wrapping the area with athletic bandages or a dedicated groin support wrap will aid in your recovery process by limiting movement of the injured muscles. There are several similar but slightly different wrapping techniques you can try until you find the best one for your injury.
1. **Start the wrap at the mid inner thigh on the injured leg.** Have the injured person stand with their legs straight and evenly spaced, facing you. Start the wrap by sticking the elastic adhesive medical tape to their inner thigh about halfway between their knee and crotch. Angle the tape slightly upward, as you’ll be wrapping in that direction.
You can use an elastic non-adhesive sports wrap instead, if desired. You’ll just have to tape the wrap in place when you’re done.
This wrap works best on bare skin, so remove or “hike up” as much clothing as modesty permits. Or, tape over compression shorts (and shirt) if necessary.
2. **Wrap the tape around and up the leg as high as possible.** Come up over the front of the leg, around the back of the leg, and overlap your starting point by about half the width of the tape. Continue wrapping around and up until you are as close to the inner top of the leg as is feasible.
You want the tape to cause some compression of the muscles, but don’t pull it excessively tight. If the leg below the tape loses its normal color or tingles, the tape is too tight and must be removed and replaced more loosely.
3. **Bring the tape around and over both hips.** Once you’ve reached the inner top of the leg, continue around the outer leg, up over the upper buttocks, and over the opposite hip (of the uninjured leg). Go right over the hip bone. Then, continue the tape over the lower abdomen and just below the hip bone on the injured side.
4. **Finish the wrap by overlapping the tape on the upper leg.** From the same-side hip, go down around the back of the leg and around the existing tape job. Wrap the tape around the leg (and existing tape) once or twice for secure adhesion. Then cut off the tape and you’re all set!
If you’ve used a non-adhesive elastic bandage instead of tape, you’ll need to wrap around the loose end of the bandage with athletic tape to hold it in place. Go around the entire leg once or—even better—twice with the tape.
This type of wrap will allow for generally free movement, but should not be seen as a license to return to full physical activity. Consult your doctor or physical therapist for your proper recovery timeline.
5. **Position the injured person’s leg for wrapping.** Have the person stand facing you with their hips square. Ask them to step forward slightly (about a half step) with their injured leg, turn their foot in slightly, and keep their knee bent enough that their heel lifts a few inches/centimeters off the ground. Their hips should remain square and facing you.
For their comfort, place a rolled up towel or some other prop under their lifted heel while you wrap their leg.
This leg maneuver tenses up the upper leg muscles and allows for a slightly tighter wrap with the non-adhesive elastic bandage.
6. **Start the wrap on the outer mid-thigh.** Make sure that you use a large wrap. Place the wrap end on the outer leg, about one-third of the way up from the knee to the hip bone. Bring the wrap over the front of the leg and all the way around the leg, working slightly upward. Overlap the starting point by about half the width of the wrap.
Pull the elastic bandage snug as you work. You want it to be tight, but if the person’s leg loses its normal color or begins to tingle, the wrap is too tight and must be immediately replaced.
Non-adhesive elastic bandages work better over clothing than elastic adhesive tapes, but the clothing should be skin-tight (e.g., compression shorts and shirt). If you choose to do this wrap technique with adhesive tape, wrap it over bare skin as much as possible.
7. **Wrap up to the top of the leg and over the hips.** Once you’ve reached the inner top of the leg, come around the back of the leg with the bandage, then go up over the upper crotch/lower abdomen and onto the opposite hip bone (on the uninjured leg). Bring the bandage across the lower back/upper buttocks and over the hip bone on the injured side.
8. **Finish the bandage wrap around the leg.** From the injured-side hip, bring the tape down over the front to the top inner thigh. Overwrap the existing bandage once or twice, going completely around the leg. Either keep wrapping around the leg until you run out of bandage or—better yet—wrap up and over the hips once or twice more.
When you’re finished wrapping, ask the injured person to hold the end of the bandage tight while you grab some elastic adhesive tape.
9. **Tape over the elastic bandage to hold it in place.** You can simply tape around the leg a couple of times to hold the non-adhesive elastic bandage in place. For the best hold, though, repeat the entire wrap with the tape—that is, go around the leg, up over the hips, and back down over the leg with the tape.
Like any other groin wrapping technique, this one should reduce your pain and increase your mobility, but it isn’t a cure. You are still injured, and should follow your medical professional’s advice about returning to activities.
Keep the bandage close to the skin, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. It should be snug and there should not be any wrinkles in it.
10. **Buy a groin wrap or specialized compression shorts.** You can find many types of groin wraps online or at sporting goods stores. They are typically made of an elastic material and have Velcro closures to hold them snug. They’ll typically wrap around your leg, up over your hips, and then finish back over the leg.
You can also buy compression shorts that are specially-made to provide extra support to an injured groin.
Both of these products are easier to apply yourself than are tape or elastic bandages, which are best applied by another person. A properly-done tape or bandage job may produce better results, however.
11. **Use a groin wrap as part of the RICE method for healing.** No matter how you wrap it, you have to give a groin injury time to heal. Experts often promote what is known as the RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. Wrapping the injury fulfills the “compress” component.
Get your doctor’s input on how often to wrap your groin, how tightly to wrap it, and what types of activities you can do while it is wrapped. You don’t want to risk further injury.
12. **Rest your injury as much as possible.** You simply cannot rush the healing process of a groin injury. For a mild or moderate groin strain, expect to need at least 4-8 weeks to recover. During this time, you should rest the injured muscle as much as possible.
Work with your medical professional regarding your timetable for resuming different levels of activity during your recovery.
Groin strains come in three grades. A grade 3 strain means the muscle is completely or nearly completely torn. The recovery time here will be greater than 8 weeks, and surgery may be necessary.
Make sure that you stop your activity and begin resting the injured muscles as soon as possible.
13. **Ice your injured groin to reduce pain.** Especially in the days right after your injury, your strained groin may cause you a fair amount of pain. Under your doctor’s guidance, apply a wrapped ice pack to the area 3-4 times per day as needed, for about 20-30 minutes at a time.
Never apply ice or an ice pack directly to your body. The extreme cold can damage your skin.
14. **Elevate your groin while lying down.** When you go to bed or are resting flat on your back, stick a pillow or two under your pelvis to elevate your groin area. Keeping the area elevated when possible will help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, especially in the days after the injury.
15. **Use caution when engaging in activities that may reinjure the muscles.** You can easily reinjure your groin again when you return to the same activities that injured it in the first place. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to recover. Also, make sure to use proper form when engaging in the activity again.
It is also important to wear the appropriate footwear for the activity to help prevent another injury.
Don’t make any sudden movements or changes in direction as this will increase your chances of getting injured again. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Wrap-a-Groin-Injury", "language": "en"} |
How to Cook Bacon | Nothing beats the smell of bacon in the morning! Luckily, there are several techniques you can use to cook it. Try frying your bacon in a skillet for a traditional approach. You can also bake it in the oven or use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Watch out for hot grease while you're cooking and be sure to let your cooked bacon drain on paper towels before digging in!
1. **Take your bacon out of the fridge 5-6 minutes before you start cooking.** Letting your bacon come to room temperature before frying helps the meat cook evenly and at the right speed. Take your bacon strips out of the fridge and place them on the kitchen counter for 5-6 minutes before you start cooking.
If you throw cold bacon into a hot pan, it won't release its grease properly, causing it to scorch.
2. **Space out the bacon strips on a cool frying pan or griddle.** Make sure each strip is laying flat and try to avoid overlapping the edges so the bacon will cook evenly. If you need to, fry your bacon in batches. It's usually best to fill the skillet with strips rather than attempt to cook 1-2 pieces at a time—this usually causes the meat to burn.
Cast iron pans, nonstick skillets, and griddles work best for this, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
3. **Heat the bacon over medium heat until it starts to sizzle.** The skillet will heat up after several minutes, causing the bacon to release its grease. The grease allows you to fry the bacon perfectly, so be sure to wait for it! You'll know it's ready when the bacon starts sizzling and making slow, crackling sounds.
Make sure to keep an eye on your bacon—your appliance may cook at a faster rate than conventional.
4. **Cook the bacon strips for 10-12 minutes.** You can start your kitchen timer when you hear sizzling. Let the bacon sit undisturbed in the pan as it fries. You'll know the strips are ready to flip when they crisp up and start to curl.
5. **Flip the bacon over and fry it for another 7-8 minutes until it's crisp.** Use tongs to flip the bacon over and continue frying it. You don't need to touch or move the bacon after flipping it! Let it fry for another 7-8 minutes until it reaches your desired crispiness.
If you like chewy bacon, fry it for 6-7 minutes.
If you like extra crisp bacon, aim for 9-10 minutes.
6. **Remove the bacon strips with tongs and drain them on a paper towel.** Fold several paper towels and place them on top of a large plate. Transfer the cooked bacon strips to the plate and let them drain for a few minutes before enjoying them. Remove any excess grease by gently patting the bacon with another paper towel.
Draining the bacon also gives it time to cool off a bit. Bacon right out of the pan is very hot!
7. **Preheat your oven to 400 °F (204 °C).** Make sure you have a rack in the middle of your oven with plenty of space above it. If you need to, adjust the rack to the center of your oven.
Take your bacon out of the fridge to start warming up as you work.
8. **Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.** Pull off a sheet of aluminum foil and spread it over the bottom of your baking sheet. Curl the foil around the rimmed edges.
This prevents grease from escaping the pan, which can potentially start a grease fire.
9. **Spread the bacon strips out flat on the baking sheet.** Arrange the bacon strips so that they're close together but not touching. Make sure each piece of bacon is resting flat against the surface of the baking sheet.
The bacon strips will shrink as they cook, so they can be very close together.
10. **Cook the bacon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.** Slide the baking sheet onto the rack and close the oven door. You don't need to flip the bacon as it cooks. The end result will be perfectly flat and evenly cooked bacon!
If you want your bacon to be extra crispy, let it bake for 20-22 minutes total.
11. **Let the bacon drain on 2-3 layers of paper towels for several minutes.** Fold several paper towels and lay them on a flat surface. Use tongs to transfer the bacon strips to the paper towels and let them drain.
Don't leave the bacon on the hot baking sheet to cool. If you do, the strips will continue to cook for 1-2 minutes and might scorch.
Draining the bacon on paper towels keeps the meat crispy.
12. **Cover a microwave-safe plate with 3-4 layers of paper towels.** The paper towels will help soak up the grease as the bacon cooks. If you put the bacon directly on the plate, it will end up grease-logged and chewy.
13. **Lay the strips out on the plate and cover them with 1-2 paper towels.** The bacon strips shouldn't be overlapping, but you can put them close together. Lay another paper towel gently on top of the bacon to prevent grease from splattering.
14. **Cook the bacon for 1 minute per strip on HIGH.** Close the microwave door and set the cook time. For example, if you have 4 slices of bacon, set your microwave's timer for 4 minutes. You don't need to flip the strips over or do anything at this point.
15. **Keep cooking in 30-second intervals until it's as crispy as you want.** Check the bacon and continue cooking in 30-second bursts if you want it to be crispier. Keep in mind that the bacon will continue to cook briefly after you remove it from the heat, so take it out right before it reaches your desired crispness.
16. **Transfer the bacon strips to a new plate to cool.** Be sure to remove the bacon from the paper towels right away so they don't stick to it as they cool down. Use tongs to transfer them to a regular plate without draining the first. Give them a few minutes to cool and then dig in!
The paper towels soaked up the excess grease as the bacon cooked, so you don't have to worry about draining them with this technique.
17. **Marinate your bacon in maple syrup to make it "Vermont Style."** Put your strips of bacon in a bowl and cover them with real maple syrup. Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge for 30 minutes before proceeding with your preferred cooking method.
The caramelized sugars might make a mess as they cook, but the resulting bacon will be worth it!
18. **Cure your bacon in brown sugar before cooking it.** Let the bacon sit out until it reaches room temperature. Rub both sides of the bacon strips with brown sugar (dark or light) and wait 4-5 minutes before cooking them as you normally would.
19. **Add 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) of water to your pan for crumbled bacon.** Pour the into the pan or skillet with the meat before you start frying it on your stovetop. The water will evaporate as you cook, leading to crispier, easily crumbled bacon that's perfect for salads, baked potatoes, and casseroles.
If you want to make a dish taste less spicy, you can add some sweetener to it.
It confuses the chemistry of your tongue because spice is a trigeminal scientific reaction.
You can add a bit of fat or garnish the dish with a little sour cream. The fat helps to lift the spice away from your tongue as you eat it. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Bacon", "language": "en"} |
How to Make Your Teacher Like You | Everyone wants to leave a good impression on their teachers, and it doesn't need to be complicated or mysterious. You can learn what teachers expect of your behavior, so you'll be able to behave, succeed, and have a likable presence in class. All this is quite easy if you are determined to, well your perspective does everything on your behalf.
1. **Put yourself in your teacher's shoes.** If you were sitting at the front of a big group of ornery, restless, loud students for eight hours a day, every day of the week, how would you feel? You'd probably want your students to quiet down and do their work, too. Try to imagine how your teacher must feel on a daily basis to give you some clues on how to act, if you want your teacher to like you.
Try to take it easy on your teacher. Don't make your teacher have to work harder than they already have to. Every time you have an excuse or a favor or a request you have to make for your teacher, that's more work for them. Give them less to do.
2. **Read your teacher's personality.** There's no one way to please all your teachers, since all your teachers will be completely different people. Some will be kind, easy-going, and warm, while others will seem like stern, old-school taskmasters. Try to get a read on who your teacher is, what they like, and what makes them tick, to learn more.
If your teacher is stern, sucking up won't do you much good. Focus on your work, putting your head down, and doing what's expected, not in being a big presence in class.
If your teacher is kind of warm, they'll likely more appreciate the talkers in class. If you want the teacher to like you, open up and talk a bit more and have a short conversation with the teacher if necessary, as well as doing your work as well as you can.
3. **Know when to ease off.** Contrary to what you might think, teachers don't like brown-noses, suck-ups, or annoying tattle-tales. The person in your class you think is the "teacher's pet" according to the students is probably not most teacher's favorite student. Keep that in mind.
It's not necessary to be the most talkative, or to ask more questions than everyone else. Just make sure that you contribute sometimes and that you keep the classroom positive.
4. **Be creative.** If you want to go the extra mile, it's helpful to have a creative spin to put on your work to help yourself stand out from the rest of the students and interesting, creative, and likable. Think of creative projects when you get projects, or do your in-class work in different ways than everyone else. Try to hard and do more than the minimum.
Imagine this: your teacher has to sit down and grade twenty, fifty, even a couple hundred papers at night. How boring if they're all exactly the same. But if you can inject a bit of your own personality and creativity into your work (as long as you follow instructions and do the work you're supposed to do), most teachers will like that.
5. **Speak your mind.** Be honest when you're in school. As you get older and go through school, teachers will respect students who learn to think for themselves, not students who just repeat what they've heard. If you display, at any age, that you're a creative, independent thinker, that'll be something to respect.
Speaking your mind doesn't mean being a troublemaker in class. If you don't want to do the homework because it's boring, that's not going to win you any points.
6. **Thank your teacher for what they do.** At some point in your time as a student, you should pick a teacher that you especially like and say, "Thank you." It's hard work being a teacher, and they'll appreciate your appreciation.
In some cases, small gifts can be appropriate ways of saying thanks, but some teachers might take offense, if the gift seems overly elaborate, expensive, or fancy. Gifts should not seem like bribes.
In some cultures, it's appropriate and quite common to invite your teacher to dinner with your family. Extending an invitation can be a polite way of saying thanks.
7. **Pay attention in class** The single best way to get any teacher to look on you favorably is to pay attention in class. The more you pay attention and listen closely, the easier it will be for you to settle down when you're supposed to, and do your best work possible.
If you struggle to pay attention in class, talk to your parents and your teacher to let them know. It's possible you may not being challenged enough, or might have some behavioral problems that need help so you can do your best.
Even though it's fun to sit next to your friends, try to hang out with them at recess, on the bus, and during passing periods. It might be better to sit away from them in class, to avoid the temptation to fool around. You might miss important things.
8. **Follow your teacher's instructions.** When you're in school, you need to do what you're supposed to do as quickly and quietly as possible. If it's time to put away your things and go to lunch, that doesn't mean it's time to joke with your neighbor and stick your gum under the desk. Listen and follow instructions.
Follow your teacher's instructions when you're not in the classroom as well. If you have to read a chapter from a book for class tomorrow, do it. Don't skip assignments and think the teacher will like you because you're friendly. Just do your work.
9. **Be respectful.** It's very important that you be respectful and kind to not only your teacher, but to everyone else in class as well. Treat the other people in your class like you would want to be treated at all times.
Don't talk in class when it's not the right time. Teachers will not be happy at improper interruptions.
Some kids think pushing the teachers buttons is a good way of getting other kids to like them, but this is disrespectful to everyone, especially the teacher.
10. **Contribute to class in a positive way.** When you're in class, you need to do more than just sit silently and pay attention. Often, your teacher will ask for volunteers, or ask questions of the group, and it's important to speak up at appropriate times. Work hard to make the class environment positive.
Work in small groups politely. When it's time to break into groups, do your part in the group to help the task along, not make trouble, interrupt, or just sit and wait for the other students to do your work for you.
If you see other students around you acting up or talking, you don't need to make a big deal of it, but you can also help keeping class moving forward by putting your nose down and doing the work. Don't let yourself get distracted.
11. **Keep your space neat.** Take pride in keeping your desk, locker, coat space in the coat closet, and whatever other space you've got in the classroom and orderly and clean as possible. Your teacher isn't your parent, and shouldn't have to clean up after you on a regular basis. There's no better way to make your teacher not like you, than to make a big mess in the classroom.
12. **Finish your assignments on time.** During class, focus and do your in-class assignments as best as possible, follow instructions that you've been given, and turn in your work. Getting your teacher happy doesn't need to be much more complicated than that.
When you get homework assignments, save enough time to finish them efficiently. A good way to tick off your teacher is doing your homework last minute, right before you turn it in.
Never, under any circumstances, should you cheat or copy answers from someone in your class. That's a good way to get in trouble.
13. **Join the class discussion.** Teachers like a student who joins in when it's time, and not just sits in the back of the room, head down. Ask intelligent or meaningful questions. Show you are listening while your teacher is talking.
Often, if you have a question, a bunch of other students will have the same question, they're just too afraid to ask it. Being willing to ask questions will help to make your teacher like you.
14. **Be yourself.** This should be an easy one. When you go to class and interact with your teacher, Try to put yourself at ease and just be yourself. If you try to be pretend to be someone you're not, your teacher will be able to tell. Don't just try to be a teacher's pet, a know-it-all, or too-cool-for-school. Just be you.
Teachers are like anyone else: they like people to be genuine, kind, and real. Don't mistake yourself into thinking that you need to be a certain way to get teachers to like you. Just don't act up to get attention, and you'll be well-liked by teachers.
15. **Try to do your best work.** Try hard in school and only turn in your best work. If teachers think that you're capable of more in class, they'll be unhappy if you're not trying hard. Don't mail it in. Really set aside enough time to get your work done at a high level. Go the extra mile on homework assignments.
If you're struggling in class, tell your teacher that you want to do better, and ask for help. At lots of schools, there are after-school homework groups, study sessions, and other ways that you can get extra work done, if you make the effort. Teachers respect effort. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Teacher-Like-You", "language": "en"} |
How to Train a Naughty Labrador | Labrador retrievers are incredibly cute dogs. Their roly-poly bellies, happy smiles, and wagging tails just capture our hearts. However, these dogs do need some training. Labradors are high-energy animals, especially since their breed was developed to work, hunt, and run all day. Fortunately, Labradors are friendly and trainable.
1. **Note that there is no such thing as a 'naughty' Labrador.** The concept of 'naughtiness' is a human characterization that has been incorrectly applied to an animal. Your Labrador is not innately "naughty" or "bad." Rather, your dog does what Labradors do in a Labrador fashion until you teach him new behaviors. Keep in mind that he wasn't born automatically knowing the rules of living in a human world.
2. **Read up on the breed.** Labradors are generally intelligent, happy, and energetic dogs. They need substantial attention and an outlet for their energy.
Labradors originated from and were developed in Newfoundland. They were frequently used by fishermen to help retrieve fishing nets and loose fish. To this day, they remain good "workers" and swimmers.
The versatility of the Labrador has seen the breed utilized in many "jobs," including search and rescue, police work, drug detection, and service work for the blind, among others.
3. **Treat Labradors in a manner that befits their breed.** Giving them what they need will help ensure that they don't engage in "bad behaviors" as a way to cope with the insufficiency of their treatment.
For example, Labradors need to play and be thoroughly walked. If you don't do this, they often become bored and destructive. Keep them active by playing fetch and going on substantial walks at least twice a day. Increased physical activity helps a dog stay healthy and also tires them out. A tired out Labrador will, in turn, be less inclined to help himself to the food in your cupboards and dig up your garden. Swimming is also excellent exercise for a dog and playing fetch in the water is a great combination that expends a lot of dog energy.
4. **Be precise and direct.** Don't lecture your Labrador. Your commands need to be simple and consistent. "No", "Drop", "Wait" are strong, simple, and direct. "Stop doing that, oh for goodness sake" or "Oi, stop eating my shoe" will not work as they are too complicated. Remember that dogs don't process language like humans do.
5. **Be firm and in control.** In general, shouting at any dog is ineffective. This is especially true for Labradors who are an excitable breed by nature. Use a firm voice when instructing your dog; don't yell or lose control. Dogs are very intuitive and will be able to sense your frustration and may react in kind.
Firm and assertive commands will communicate to the Labrador what you want him to do.
6. **Be timely in your responses and commands.** Admonishing a Labrador too long after the incident is ineffective. If you need to admonish or correct your dog, it needs to be done during or within a few seconds of the act. Dogs will have forgotten the event within seconds of its occurrence, so it's key to address the behavior immediately in order to facilitate the retraining process.
7. **Coach the family.** If you live in a household of more than one, your family also needs training. Explain to your family as well as visitors to your home about what your dog is and is not allowed to do. For example, if you do not allow anyone to feed your Labrador at the dinner table, then you need to let others know about that rule. If other family members or visitors don't know about this rule, they may feed your dog, which is confusing for him and will disrupt the training you have done.
8. **Never beat your dog.** Beating or hitting Labradors when they behave in an undesirable manner will not help them become better trained dogs. Rather, they will become fearful of you, which will ultimately defeat the training process.
9. **Reward the behavior you wish to encourage.** It is easy to apply human morality and motivation to your Labrador. But the fact of the matter is that your Labrador is not human and 'just is' and 'just does'. For example, eating the sleeve of your best work shirt is not a conscious act on behalf of your dog to upset you. Oftentimes, the shirt was just there and it was chewable.
Rewarding good behavior is more effective than punishing bad behavior. Instead of becoming exasperated with and angry at your Labrador for chewing your shirt, encourage him to chew his play toy and reward him with praise for doing so.
10. **Try clicker training.** Clicker training facilitates the immediate delivery of positive reinforcement. Labradors are highly trainable because they are so food motivated and this makes clicker training ideal for them.
Clicker training uses a sound—a click—to tell the dog when he has done something right. The clicker itself is a tiny plastic box held in the palm of your hand. It has a metal tongue that you push to instantly make the sound. The method works by teaching the dog that every time he hears the clicking sound, he gets a treat. Eventually the dog will come to learn that clicks are always followed by treats and this is a very powerful incentive for Labradors. Once your dog makes this connection, you can use the clicker to instantly reward the Labrador for performing the right behavior (such as sitting down). Over time, he will learn that sitting down when "on command" gets him rewards. Learn how to clicker train your dog.
11. **Appeal to your Labrador's belly.** Most dogs are constantly hungry. Labradors in particular are food-oriented and motivated. Reward desirable behavior with food and you’re likely to get a repeat of that good behavior.
For example, if your Labrador is gnawing through your settee, encourage him to pick up his play toy and then reward him with a treat and make a great fuss of him. The treats can gradually give way to praise and, over time, your Labrador will learn not to chew on your settee.
Treats should be small, such as Mini Zukes, Charlie Bears, Bil Jac, or freeze-dried liver. Cooked kidney is a cheap alternative to buying dog treats and is also very easy to prepare and cut up. Many dogs will even work for their regular dog kibble.
Giving treats as a reward for the behavior you wish to encourage should be used only as a starting measure. Treats should soon be replaced with praise as the reward, otherwise the dog may become overweight or even obese.
Some trainers recommend having a dog with attention problems have to earn every kibble in his bowl, instead of being fed large meals at one time. That way, your dog is very focused on you and the food, making it easier to convey the message that he needs to “learn to earn.”
12. **Employ distraction techniques.** For instance, if your Labrador has taken to either launching himself at passers by or other dogs or barking at people and other dogs, then you should try to distract him. You need to temporarily interrupt your Labrador's stream of thought by talking to or commanding him or by an action (such as stomping your foot).
Prepare ahead of the actual distraction by working on distraction techniques with treats in low distraction settings and at home. Make sure you follow through with praise and treats. As you get more confident where it is quiet, increase the level of difficulty by walking around the block or near a dog park to work on his skills. Gradually work up to busier areas once your Labrador is consistently responding to commands like “leave it” or “watch me”. Work up slowly to added distraction and you will both gain confidence in your Labrador's ability to handle a crowd.
13. **Consult a professional trainer.** A professional dog trainer, such as one from the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), is highly knowledgeable about dogs and can help you learn basic handling skills.
You may need to start with a few private lessons to learn the basics before you and your Lab join a group lesson.
Though it is an added expense, having professional assistance is beneficial because it helps you and your energetic dog communicate effectively.
You may even consider consulting a veterinary behaviorist. These are veterinarians who have additional training and expertise in animal behavior. Your veterinarian can refer you to one of these specialists from the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB).
14. **Enjoy your Labrador.** They are wonderful dogs. Be fair, consistent, and clear. They'll reward you in turn with love and affection! | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Train-a-Naughty-Labrador", "language": "en"} |
How to Measure Distance on Google Maps | With Google Maps, there are two different ways to measure distance. First, you can measure the distance between two locations using the Google Maps directions feature. This calculates the distance along streets. Second, you can measure distance between any two points using the Google Maps measure distance feature. This article describes how to do both of these things.
1. **Go to Google Maps.**
2. **In the Getting around box, click Directions.**
3. **Choose the starting location.** In the Choose starting point, or click on the map field, type a street address, city, or other location for the starting point, and then press Enter.. You can also click a specific point on the map.
As you type a location, Google Maps will suggest possible addresses. Click an address to select it as the starting location.
Click the + button to zoom in and the - button to zoom out. If you have a mouse wheel, you can scroll it up and down to zoom in and out.
Click and drag the map to move it.
4. **Choose the ending location.** In the Choose destination, or click on the map field, type a street address, city, or other location for the ending point, and then press Enter. You can also click specific point on the map.
5. **Review the distance.** In the upper right corner of the directions box, Google Maps shows the total distance in miles as measured along its suggested route.
Different routes will have different distances.
6. **Clear your search.** In the upper right corner of the directions box, click X to clear your search and start over.
7. **Go to Google Maps.** Google Maps is located at https://www.google.com/maps.
8. **Find the starting point on the map.** In the Google Maps search box, enter the name of the city, area, or country where you want to start measuring distance, and then press Enter. Google Maps jumps to that part of the map.
You can also navigate to different points on the map by clicking and dragging the map.
Click the + button to zoom in and the - button to zoom out. If you have a mouse wheel, you can scroll it up and down to zoom in and out.
9. **Select the starting point.** Right-click the map at your chosen starting point, and then click Measure distance. A white circle with a black outline is added to the map as your start point.
10. **Select the ending point.** Left-click the map at your chosen ending point. A second white circle with a black outline is added to the map, as well as a line between them. The distance is shown under the second circle.
You can see the distance in miles and kilometers under the Google Maps search box.
11. **Change the starting and ending points.** Click and drag either the starting or ending point to change the measurement.
12. **Add distance points.** Click and drag the measurement line to change the shape of the line and add another distance point. You can also add a distance point by clicking the map.
13. **Remove distance points.** Click a distance point to delete it. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Distance-on-Google-Maps", "language": "en"} |
How to Do Hindu Pushups | The Hindu push-up, also known as dand or downward facing dog, is a complex move made up of multiple parts. It engages your entire body and is a rather intense version of a push-up. Similar to a regular push-up, the Hindu push-up strengthens your triceps, pectorals, and deltoids, but with the added benefit of strengthening your hamstrings, abdomen, back muscles, and glutes. Master the Hindu push-up by learning how to do each part individually. Once you master each part, you will be able to move through the motions seamlessly.
1. **Stretch before doing the Hindu push-up.** To prevent injury, you should stretch before doing this exercise. Stretching will loosen your muscles and enable you to do this exercise more fluidly.
Start stretching by standing up, with your feet spread shoulder length apart. Then, bend to touch your toes on each foot, and hold for 10 seconds.
Alternatively, you can stretch sitting down. Sit on the floor with your legs spread, similar to a V position. Reach for your toes on the left foot, right foot, and then reach as far as you can in the middle, and hold for 10 seconds.
2. **Get into a starting push-up position.** To start the Hindu push-up, get into a normal, starting push-up position. With your knees bent and touching the ground, place your hands on the ground directly under your shoulders (your arms should be straight). Then, slowly remove your knees from the floor and dig your toes into the ground to stabilize the lower half of your body. You should be in a high plank position.
For beginners, place your hands and feet a little farther than shoulder-width apart.
More advanced trainees can keep their hands and feet closer together for a more intense workout.
3. **Raise your backside into the air.** Once you are in the starting push-up position, begin to raise your backside up into the air. As you raise your backside into the air, keep your arms, legs, and back straight. At this point, your eyes should be looking at your feet. In this position, you will look like an upside down V.
This V position is essentially the starting position, and you will return to this position after you complete each push-up.
4. **Inhale deeply.** Before you begin the next movements of the push-up, remember to breathe in deeply through your nose.
5. **Bend your elbows and lower your chest.** While breathing in, begin to bend your elbows outward and lower your chest to the ground. Your backside should be more level to the ground, but still pointing slightly upward at this point. You will feel as if you are in a flexed push-up position with your backside slightly pointed upward.
6. **Arch your lower and upper back.** As your chest gets lower to the ground, in a scooping motion, scoop your head upward while arching your lower and upper back. Exhale through your mouth as you do this motion. At this point, you are essentially at the “bottom” of the push-up.
7. **Straighten your arms and look up.** After scooping your head in a round, upward motion and arching your back, straighten your arms, lift your torso, and look upwards. Your hips should be down towards the floor, but not touching the floor.
At this point, you have pretty much completed the Hindu push-up, but you still need to return to the starting position.
8. **Return to the starting position.** To return to the starting position, lower your torso and lift your hips to return to the V position; use your abs and gluteus maximus, i.e., your butt muscles, to bring your backside up into the air. As you push back to the starting position, inhale deeply through your nose, and exhale through your mouth as you reach the V position.
To return to the starting position, you do not need to reverse back through the sweeping, arching motion. Simply push back into the starting position.
9. **Repeat.** If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you do as many push-ups or repetitions as you are able to, for example, 3 or 5 repetitions is fine. If you need to rest during the exercise, take a break in the starting V position. As you become better you can add more sets and repetitions. For example, you can do 2 sets of 3 repetitions or push-ups. If you are more advanced, you can do more sets with more repetitions. For example, 3 sets with 8 to 10 push-ups or repetitions.
These push-ups should be done seamlessly in a sweeping motion without delay between each part. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Hindu-Pushups", "language": "en"} |
How to Catch Articuno in Pokémon Blue | Articuno is a Legendary Ice/Flying-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I. The PokéDex entry for Articuno says: "A legendary bird Pokémon that is said to appear to doomed people who are lost in icy mountains." Along with Zapdos and Moltres, it is one of the three legendary birds of Kanto.
1. **Know that Articuno is in the Seafoam Islands east of Cinnabar Island and south-west of Fuchsia City.** You'll need a Pokémon that knows Surf.
The easiest way to reach there is to go to Fuchsia City and start surfing first to the south and then west.
2. **Find the entrance to the Seafoam Islands.** This area is full of puzzles, and there are 5 floors with water bodies with currents which may flow you back to where the current ends each time. You need to stop the current by blocking it by boulders.
These boulders have to be pushed inside a hole with the help of a Pokémon who knows the move Strength. There are 4 boulders, but only 2 of them will block currents blocking your path to Articuno.
3. **Enter any one of the holes that are formed when you block the current.** Surf towards north. You will see a bird sitting on a platform. This is Articuno.
4. **Save your game after you reach Articuno.** This will help just in case you knock it out. You will be able to get it back.
5. **Make sure you have the right supplies.** You should have these arrangements to catch it easily:
An Electric-type or Fire-type Pokémon
At least 50 Ultra Balls
Hyper Potions
A Pokémon that knows a move which may paralyze Pokémon or put them to sleep
6. **Hit the Pokémon with heavy attacks first, to make it weak.** Then paralyze it or put it to sleep. After this, start throwing Ultra Balls.
7. **If you are lucky it will be quick; otherwise, keep trying.** | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-Articuno-in-Pok%C3%A9mon-Blue", "language": "en"} |
How to Make a Hotel Room Romantic | If you book a hotel room for a romantic escape, you want it to be magical. You might wonder what to ask the staff for or what to bring along. We’ll take out all the guesswork for you! Here, we’ll reveal how to plan in advance, what to pack, and ways to treat your sweetheart. Read on to make your next getaway unforgettable and take your SO’s breath away.
1. **Scatter fresh flower petals over the bed to make it look magical.** Do this yourself or call the concierge and ask if they have a “rose petal turndown service,” a fun extra that involves covering your hotel’s bed with fresh rose petals. If they do offer this, see if their rose petals come in different colors or if they can spell out a special message, like “Happy Anniversary.”
Check out other unique forms of turndown services, too. Some hotels offer cute spins on them, like leaving books or souvenirs on your bed.
If you'd like to really wow your partner, put a surprise gift on the decorated bed when they're not looking.
2. **Draw the curtains and turn off the lamps to set the mood.** Whether you’ve arrived in the daytime or the evening, curtains block out bright, natural or artificial light from outside. Once you’ve shut them, switch on a lamp or two. That way, you’ll create a much more calming atmosphere in your hotel room.
If your room has a chandelier, turn that on and switch off the other lights.
For a distinctive and romantic glow, drape red silk scarves over the lampshades.
Close the blinds for an extra sense of mystery and privacy.
3. **Give the hotel room a charming glow with some candles.** Pull out candles with your favorite colors and scents. Put these down in places that won't be a fire hazard. To be extra cautious, you can use LED candles instead.
Try candles that create nostalgia. For example, cinnamon might remind you of a special Christmas holiday you shared or coconut might remind you of you honeymoon in an exotic, island destination.
Group candles of various heights together for an elegant touch.
Play around with color, too. For instance, a combination of gold, blue, and ivory candles might feel right for the space.
4. **Put some champagne on ice for a real sense of celebration.** Bring your bubbly chilled or order champagne from the hotel bar or room service. If you can, choose your favorite brand or one that has special significance to you and your SO. For example, maybe you bought it during a vacation. For a fun effect, open it in front of your partner and watch the cork pop off. Champagne pairs well with fresh strawberries. Serve your partner champagne with these at West, heart shaped fruit for full romance points.
Use caution when you open the bottle—make sure it isn’t pointed toward your or your SO’s face.
Hold the bottle of champagne at an angle when you pour it, that way, it’ll bubble and fizz more.
For a dash of color, add fresh frozen fruit, like raspberries, into your glasses.
Sparkling grape juice is a great non-alcoholic alternative to champagne.
5. **Play songs in your room that make your heart melt.** Use an app like Spotify and create a playlist that captures the ambience you’re going for. Let your imagination go wild and include any songs that inspire you, like smooth R&B or, soft rock ballads or good old fashioned love songs.
Include songs that are meaningful to you and your SO, like ones you listened to during your earliest dates, what you danced to for your first dance at your wedding or what was number one in the charts for for first anniversary.
When you make a playlist, you’ll save yourself time so you won't have to flip through radio stations or hit “shuffle” until the right track comes on.
6. **Dress your best during your stay to make the most of it.** Consider the look you’re going for—maybe you want sultry ensembles like high-end lingerie or black-tie options fit for a gala. Try them on, do a spin in the mirror, and show them off to your partner.
Sneak in some eye-catching outfits that your SO has complimented before.
Surprise your partner with new ensembles they’ve never seen.
7. **Toys, games, and movies for couples bring fun to the room.** If you’d like a more wild or sensual night, check out any “adult entertainment” options. Check in with the concierge about streaming services, then make a list of films to watch while you cuddle-up with your SO. Also throw in games that help you both bond, like conversation starter cards.
Bring essentials like protection, lubrication and sanitizer to keep things clean and safe.
For other couples activities, card games are a great choice since they’re lightweight and easy to pack.
8. **Share dessert or a gourmet meal in your room to feel like you’re royalty.** Find the menu for room service and browse the options. If you plan to get very active or want to eat a light meal, go for a simple choice, like a meat, cheese, and fruit platter or a slice of cake for two. When you’re in the mood for extravagance, splurge on fancy dishes like lobster tails.
Inquire about any specials, like seasonal entrees or wine pairings.
See if there’s 24-hour service so you can indulge whenever you like.
For winter retreats, order cozy, hot beverages like hot cocoa.
Also pack your own favorite snacks that you can grab whenever you need them.
9. **Enjoy a perk like a couples massage in the privacy of your room.** Check in with the concierge and see what services you can indulge in. To surprise your partner and to make sure that staff are available, schedule an appointment or two before you arrive.
As a sweet alternative, dote on each other by bringing your own massage oils and giving one another a massage.
10. **Take advantage of the room’s bath and cozy up in some suds.** After you've eaten, played games, and indulged in the hotel's perks, start a nice bubble bath. Run the bath, make sure the temperature's just right, and add in a bath bomb or some liquid bubble bath. Step in with your partner, lean back, and enjoy each other's company.
While you soak, talk about warm memories or your plans for the future.
Also take the time to discuss what excites your partner and make some mental notes.
Feel free to enjoy moments of silence and just caress or hold each other.
11. **Wear luxurious loungewear so the room feels like a sanctuary.** Towel off after your bubble bath, blow dry your hair, and put on some fresh robes. Choose a spot to kick back with your SO, whether that's by a fireplace, on a loveseat, or in your bed.
If you prefer it, you can bring your own loungewear. For example, your own silk pajamas or a a silk robe might put you in a romantic mood.
12. **Savor the final moments of your stay with a hearty spread.** Wake up with enough time to spare—for example, 4 hours before you check out. Then, pick up your room service menu and order a brunch that you’ll definitely remember, like French toast and perfectly roasted coffee.
Stay in your sleepwear while you eat for a luxurious, indulgent feel.
For a whimsical touch, sprinkle edible flowers onto a dish like waffles. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Hotel-Room-Romantic", "language": "en"} |
How to End Feelings of Shame when You Have OCD | Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) affects your thoughts and behaviors in a way that might make you feel weird or different. If you feel like you cannot control your thoughts, you may start to feel shame about your OCD. You may want to stop the thoughts but don't know how, or feel embarrassed about how your OCD affects your relationships or those around you. Your thoughts about having OCD may influence how you talk to people or may lead you to think there are parts of you that cannot be shared with others. You may also feel ashamed of the content of your OCD thoughts, which might include violent or sexual thoughts that do not align with your personal values. It can be difficult to handle feelings of shame about OCD, yet there are ways to overcome these feelings, such as by working through your thoughts and feelings, getting support from other people, and seeking the help of a therapist.
1. **Identify feelings of shame.** Shame can occur when you feel you are unworthy, unlovable, or lesser-than others. Shame can make you feel like you don't deserve love, prosperity, or happiness because there is something fundamentally “wrong” with you. Shame can make you feel alone and cause you to isolate yourself. However, the less you talk about shame, the more power it can have over your life.
Shame can be behind the thoughts, “You'll never really belong. You always fail at everything you do. Who would ever love you?”
2. **Recognize the effects of shame.** Shame is not productive and often leads people to destructive and dysfunctional behaviors. Feeling shame ultimately means that you feel like you are wrong or bad and cannot be improved. While guilt can be a catalyst for growth or change, shame can send you down a deep hole of emotions that seems impossible to escape.
Recognizing the role of shame in your life can help you realize how it is affecting you. It's important to identify feelings of shame so that you can begin to challenge those feelings. Realize that shame will not help you cope with OCD. Everyone has problems and issues. No one gets by in life without having them. OCD is a treatable condition. Feeling ashamed for a problem you're experiencing could block your progress in helping you cope with your OCD.
3. **Challenge negative thoughts.** Shame about your OCD may affect your thoughts, which might reinforce feelings of shame. Therefore, you may need to work on changing your thoughts to overcome shame. For instance, you may think, “Nobody will ever love me because I have this deep secret that I can't share with anyone.” Or you may think, “If anyone knew my OCD struggles, I wouldn't have any friends and I'd be all alone.” Recognize that these harmful thoughts may be contributing to feelings of shame and may not be true.
To challenge these thoughts, first identify the negative thoughts. Say, “This is a negative thought.” Then, challenge the thought. Say to yourself, “Is this true? Is this accurate? Is this thought rational? Am I overgeneralizing? How would I respond to a friend who said this about herself?“
Once you've challenged the thought, replace it with a more positive or rational thought. For example, you may say, “Even though my OCD may shock someone when I tell them about it, a real friend is someone who supports me through difficult times.”
4. **Journal.** You may feel hesitant to share your feelings with others, but journaling can be helpful in expressing your feelings of shame and understanding them better. This might help you to overcome your feelings of shame about your OCD. Writing in a journal can help bring clarity to your thoughts and feelings. It can also help you reflect on your life more clearly when you read it back.
Use a journal to explore your feelings related to shame. Some possible journal entries could include: “What makes me feel ashamed? When do I feel ashamed of my OCD? What keeps me from telling people about OCD? How have I dealt with shame in the past? What are some things I can do to feel better when I feel ashamed?”
You can also use your journal to track symptoms each day. This way, you can track what triggers feelings of shame and how you handle them.
5. **Resolve underlying trauma.** For some people, OCD symptoms may result as a way to cope with the trauma. Think about your OCD symptoms and whether they started around the time of a trauma or involve compulsions that are related to a trauma. For example, if you were hit by a car while walking, you may check for cars compulsively, not cross streets that have cars in them, or count your steps as you cross the street. While the OCD symptoms may be bothersome, the underlying cause is the trauma of being hit.
If you have an unresolved trauma, partner with a therapist to work through the trauma and relieve symptoms of OCD. Cognitive approaches to treating OCD may be ineffective until the trauma is resolved.
6. **Talk to friends and family.** You may try to hide your OCD from those around you out of fear or shame. You also might experience fears or doubts about being in a relationship and having it continue on if the person knows you have OCD.
Talk to one person you trust about your OCD. Tell this person what makes you feel scared or ashamed. It might be scary, but it can also feel like a relief not to keep everything a secret. You may come to find that sharing your secrets and experiences is not as difficult as you imagined, and that people are willing to support you.
7. **Avoid isolation.** Your shame may make you feel like you want to or need to isolate yourself from other people. You might find it hard to be around others or fear going outside or being in public. These feelings can lead to intense shame and isolation. However, isolation does not help you deal with your difficult emotions and often increases OCD symptoms.
Make a point to spend time with friends and family. Even if they are far away, schedule phone calls or video calls to keep in touch.
One way to feel less isolated is to adopt a pet. A dog can provide companionship and help to reduce anxiety. For more information, check out How to Adopt a Pet from a Shelter.
8. **Practice relaxation.** Getting into the habit of practicing relaxation exercises can help reduce anxiety and increase feelings of well-being and calm. This can help decrease your anxiety and other negative emotional experiences, such as shame. Include relaxation as part of every day to experience long-lasting results.
Schedule time each day to practice relaxation. You can start with 10 minutes and adjust the time as needed. If you want to try different relaxation techniques, try qi gong, yoga, or meditation.
9. **Connect with a support group.** Find an OCD support group near you. You may be able to find in a mental health clinic near where you live or find some online resources. A support group can help you make connections and realize that you do not suffer alone. They are often organized by people with a disorder or a mental health professional and function to bring people together who each suffer from similar challenges.
You may find that other people experience similar shame. The support group can offer you advice on other people have dealt with similar feelings.
10. **Work with a therapist.** Sometimes the best treatment doesn't just focus on OCD symptoms. The thought content may disturb you to the point that it causes significant distress. A therapist can help you work through feelings of depression, shame, guilt, and depression in treatment.
While addressing OCD may be the main treatment goal, it can also be important to target how the OCD makes you feel.
11. **Develop an exposure program for shame.** With a therapist, create a hierarchy of situations or thoughts that cause you shame. Then, rank them from causing least shame to causing most shame. The therapist will help you face each situation and emotionally work through each situation that has caused shame related to OCD. This type of exposure can lessen the emotional reaction of shame and help you realize that you can face challenging thoughts and feelings.
For example, you may feel shame around eating in front of your family and arranging the foods, doing simple tasks in front of others, and having thoughts about violence toward your sibling. Now, arrange the situations in order of severity of shame, then discuss each situation with your therapist.
12. **Take medication.** OCD is often treated with medications. Medications can help to lessen the severity of your symptoms. Medication can help decrease OCD thoughts overall, which can help decrease feelings of shame. Talk to a prescriber, such as a psychiatrist to discuss medications. Antidepressant medication is often tried first, and some people benefit from antipsychotic medication. Your prescriber may try several medications to find the best fit for you.
It's unlikely to find a medication that does not cause side-effects and that takes away all symptoms of OCD. When considering medication, it's important to note possible side-effects and risks associated with medication. When taking medication, make sure you do so under medical supervision.
13. **Consider family therapy.** Family therapy can help families to understand OCD better and respond to the individual's needs more effectively. Especially if the person with OCD lives with the family, it can be difficult for the person and the family members to live harmoniously and understand each other. Family therapy can help decrease conflicts and increase understanding about OCD, what it's like to live with OCD, and how family members can help.
Children with OCD seem to benefit greatly from family therapy.
14. **Try group therapy.** OCD can leave you feeling alone and isolated. You may feel like you are the only person who has these problems. Group therapy can help you feel like you fit into a community of other people similar to you. It can be helpful in providing support, building emotional skills, and decreasing isolation.
Group therapy is generally led by a psychologist or therapist. It can include learning coping skills, practicing ways to respond to compulsions, and joining together to support one another. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/End-Feelings-of-Shame-when-You-Have-OCD", "language": "en"} |
How to Clean Geodes | A geode is a rock that contains crystals in a hollow cavity. When geodes are split open, you can see the crystals inside the rock. If you found a geode, you'll need to clean it so it shines. Cleaning a geode is easy can can be done with a few household materials like laundry detergent. When you're done cleaning, sand your geode to give it a nice shine.
1. **Wash the geode with laundry detergent and water.** You don't use harsh chemicals to clean a geode. Stick to a simple mixture of water and laundry detergent. Mix a splash of laundry detergent with warm water and gently swab the geode with a toothbrush. As the geode will need to soak to get completely clean, you will not be able to get off all the dirt and debris in the first round of cleaning. Simply strive to do your best.
2. **Soak the geode in bleach for a day.** Mix a tub of water with a quarter cup of any household bleach. You can buy bleach at a department or hardware store. Submerge the geode in the bleach and let it soak for 24 hours.
Make sure to wear gloves when handling bleach.
3. **Clean the geode with a toothbrush and denture cleaner.** After the geode has soaked, you can wash off the remaining dirt and debris. You can buy denture cleaner at most department stores. Use denture cleaner and a soft-bristle toothbrush to scrub off any remaining dirt stuck to the geode.
Dirt that did not come off during the first round of cleaning will come off more easily after the geode has been soaked.
4. **Get into any crevices.** Geodes have a lot of cracks and crevices. When cleaning the geode, make sure to get into these cracks to remove any dirt. Strive to be very thorough and inspect any crevices closely for lingering debris.
5. **Rinse your geodes.** If iron residue is stuck on your geode, you will need to soak it in wood bleach to clean it. To start, give your geode a light rinsing under the faucet to remove any dirt or debris.
6. **Put on protective gloves and googles.** Wood bleach can be very harmful to the hands and eyes. Safety precautions are important if your'e working with wood bleach, so throw on a pair of gloves and goggles before handling the bleach.
7. **Mix a cleaning solution.** Typically, to soak a geode, you should mix an eighth cup of wood bleach in five liters of water. However, make sure to read the label on the bleach you purchased. Some bleaches may need to be diluted more than others.
8. **Soak the geode in wood bleach for a few hours.** Submerge your geode completely in the wood bleach mixture. Allow it to soak for around two to three hour before checking on it. If the iron is gone, you can remove the geode at this point.
9. **Keep soaking the geode until it's clean.** If there is still iron on the geode, check it again in about half an hour. Be vigilant about checking the geode frequently until the iron is removed. Letting the geode linger in wood bleach for too long can harm the geode.
10. **Wash the geode with warm water.** After the iron is removed, take the geode out of the bleach solution. Wash off the bleach by running the geode under warm water.
Make sure to wear gloves when removing the geode from the bleach.
11. **Sand your geodes.** Use coarse sandpaper moistened slightly with water. Rub this over the geode to sand out any rough patches. Keep sanding the geode until it's as smooth as you want.
Be gentle at first and increase pressure as you sand. Some geodes are softer than others, and you want to avoid damage as much as possible.
12. **Put on protective goggles.** Small bits of stone may fly off your geode while you polish it. Before you start polishing, put on a pair of protective goggles to keep yourself safe.
13. **Polish your rocks.** Use a heavier fabric like denim to add a commercial finishing polish to your geode. Rub down the geode gently until it's as shiny as you want.
You can buy commercial finishing polish for gems online or at some hardware stores. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Geodes", "language": "en"} |
How to Clean Drains | A stubborn odor or clog can quickly turn any drain into a nuisance. Clean drains regularly to get rid of odors and buildup of organic residue that can lead to clogs. If you find water no longer drains properly, you can use a quick do-it-yourself fix to have your sink working properly in no time. You can also take steps to prevent odors and clogs from forming in the first place.
1. **Treat your drain with white vinegar, baking soda, and hot water.** This can help eliminate odors caused by the buildup of bacteria, grease, and organic residue in your drain. It can also help clean out residue to prevent a future clog. Pour ½ of a cup (118 ml) of baking soda down your drain, followed by ½ a cup (118 ml) of white vinegar. Cover or plug the drain immediately and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. Next, boil some water in a kettle or saucepan and pour the boiling water down the drain.
A solution of baking soda and vinegar can also be used to clean stains and mineral deposits off of the area around the outside of your drain.
2. **Treat dirty drains with a biological cleaner.** Regular preventative treatments can keep your drains smelling nice, get rid of potentially harmful bacteria and mold, and prevent future clogs. Biological or enzymatic drain cleaners, like Zep or Citra-Drain, are relatively safe and environmentally friendly. They are also safer for your septic system than most chemical cleaners. Follow the packaging directions for treating a drain to eliminate odors and buildup.
3. **Scour out a stinky disposal with ice, salt, and lemon peels.** If a garbage disposal runs well but smells bad, this probably means that organic residue and bacteria have begun to build up on the grinders. Fill the disposal with a few cups of ice cubes, a handful of course salt, and a few lemon peels. Let it grind this mixture for a bit to scour out buildup with an "abrasive" that will not hurt its steel grinders.
4. **Use a plunger to clear a clog.** Plungers are great for unclogging toilets, but they also work well on clogged sinks and tubs. Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the drain and bottom. Press the plunger firmly down over the drain to create a tight seal and give it several quick pumps.
Bellows-style plungers may work best.
If you have a double-bowl sink, you may need to close one of the drains with a plug or a washcloth before plunging in order to create a complete seal.
Keep a separate plunger for the toilet.
5. **Use a barbed plastic drain cleaning tool.** Barbed drain cleaners, like the Zip-It Bath and Sink Hair Snare, are a great solution for clogs near the drain opening. Just slide the tool into the drain and pull it out. The back-angled barbs will pull out hair and other materials that have built up in your drain.
6. **Use a gas- or water-powered cleaner to blow out clogs.** Aerosol drain cleaners can blast clogs out of a drain with compressed air or gas. Water bladders use pressurized water to accomplish the same result.
If you choose a gas-powered drain cleaner, you will need to make sure the device fits over your drain properly. It may be necessary to use an adapter. If you don’t create a good seal, the blast could be directed back at you instead of into the drain.
Water-based drain cleaning devices typically attach to a garden hose, but you may be able to get an adapter that will allow you to attach it to an indoor faucet.
7. **Use a heating pad to melt grease clogs.** Wrap a heating pad around the trap pipe under the sink. Turn the heating pad on to warm up the pipe, then run hot water through the drain until the grease clears. Add a little dish detergent to help dissolve the grease.
8. **Treat buildup biologically.** Use an enzymatic or bacterial drain cleaner overnight periodically for slow or partially clogged drains. Follow the directions on the package.
Biological cleaners are slower to work and less effective than chemical cleaners, but they are safer for you, your plumbing, and the environment.
Biological cleaners may require repeated treatments to be effective.
9. **Call a plumber.** If all else fails, or if you don’t feel confident that you can safely handle the problem yourself, call in a professional to clear your clogged drain. If you live in a rental property, contact your landlord or property manager so that they can call someone for you.
10. **Buy an inexpensive cable auger, or plumber's snake.** Augers are great for clearing deep clogs that can’t be reached by other means. If you don’t want to buy one, you may be able to rent one from a hardware store. While the cables coiled on a spool come in many lengths, a 25-foot (7.5 m) cable should be plenty for most household needs.
You should also get rubber gloves with a good gripping surface and wear protective goggles, especially if you have recently used harsh drain cleaning products.
11. **Remove the trap under the sink, if necessary.** Some sinks have a built-in strainer, so you may have to bypass this in order to reach the clog. The “trap” is a j-shaped pipe under your sink. Some sink traps can be removed by hand, but if this is not possible you may be able to remove it with a wrench or channel lock pliers. Have a bucket close by to catch any water that drains from the pipe after you remove it.
12. **Slowly push the auger cable or snake into the pipe opening.** Once it’s in a few inches, crank the handle on the auger while pushing the coil firmly into the pipe. The auger will slowly drive deeper into the pipe until it meets the obstruction.
If your pipe has any sharp bends, you may need to wiggle the auger wire or turn the crank a little more firmly to get it through.
13. **Keep cranking the auger until you meet resistance.** If the auger wire encounters a clog that is too big or strong to break up, it will resist turning. Crank the handle a few more times to lodge the wire firmly in the clog, then wiggle it gently to help loosen up the blockage.
14. **Turn the crank the other way to withdraw the auger from the pipe.** If you successfully lodged the auger in the blockage, the clog should come out with the wire. Clean the debris off the end of the auger and dispose of them.
15. **Test your drain and repeat the process, if necessary.** Run a little water in your sink or tub and check to see if it drains properly. If not, try running the auger through your pipes a second time, and repeat as necessary until your drain is clear.
16. **Use drain screens to prevent clogs.** Drain screens let water and small particles flow through your drain while keeping out hair, soap scum, and big particles of food. Use drain screens in your tub during a shower and in your kitchen sink while washing dishes.
17. **Keep grease and fat out of your drains.** Grease can gradually build up in your plumbing to create clogs and foul odors, and can even cause more far-reaching issues outside your home, like sewer clogs. Never pour cooking grease down your drain. Wipe down greasy dishes with a paper towel before washing them, and use plenty of hot water and dish detergent to break up any residual grease.
18. **Perform maintenance cleaning on drains and stoppers.** Pour a few gallons of boiling water down sink drains once a week as part of your regular cleaning routine. Regularly clean built-in sink stoppers, which can accumulate grime and clogging materials like hair. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Drains", "language": "en"} |
How to Get Rid of Vaginal Itch: Home Remedies & Preventative Care | Itching down there can be uncomfortable, but what if we told you there was a way to ease the itch almost immediately? If you’re experiencing vaginal itch, you’re not alone! Vaginal irritation happens for many reasons, and you may be able to stop the itching with a home remedy. We’ve got you covered whether you’re dealing with a yeast infection, skin irritation, STD, or bacterial infection. Keep reading to learn how you can stop vaginal itching from the comfort of your home and when it’s time to see a doctor.
1. **Ease your itch temporarily by pressing a cool washcloth to your vagina.** Take a clean washcloth and put it under cold water. Wring the washcloth out until it’s damp, and hold it to your vaginal area for 5 to 10 minutes. This works well for mild irritation and discomfort from yeast infections.
Make sure to wash your washcloth after each use, especially if you have an infection.
An ice pack wrapped in a towel or washcloth can also be used, but it may be too cold to hold onto the irritated area for too long.
2. **Colloidal oatmeal** If your vagina is itchy because of flaky or irritated skin, consider soaking in an oatmeal bath. Simply add a cup or two (128 to 256 g) of oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for about 20 minutes.
3. **Baking soda baths can help with eczema and yeast infection symptoms.** Studies have shown that baking soda kills the bacteria Candida that causes yeast infections and that notorious vaginal itch. Try adding ¼ c (32 g) of baking soda to a warm bath and soaking for 10 to 15 minutes.
Some doctors may suggest this home remedy, while others advise only bathing in plain warm water since baking soda may cause further vaginal irritation. Talk to your doctor if you're not sure whether a baking soda bath is right for you.
4. **The antimicrobial properties of apple cider vinegar may treat yeast infections.** In recent scientific studies, apple cider vinegar has been proven to kill strains of Candida, the bacteria that causes yeast infections, in a lab setting. Because of this, some people believe soaking in a bath with ½ c (64 g) of apple cider vinegar for 10 to 40 minutes can make a yeast infection go away faster.
Some doctors recommend against this home remedy since apple cider vinegar can be irritating. Talk to your doctor before trying this home remedy for vaginal itching if you're concerned.
5. **Greek yogurt and coconut oil may ease yeast infection symptoms.** These food products both have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some people say rubbing some plain Greek yogurt or organic pure coconut oil into your vagina can soothe your itch, but some doctors advise against this as it could upset your vagina’s pH balance and make the infection worse.
Greek yogurt helps promote good bacteria while eliminating the bad fungal bacteria that cause vaginal itch.
Coconut oil has been proven to kill Candida albicans (a yeast infection bacteria), but the method hasn’t been clinically tested on humans.
6. **Over-the-counter or prescribed medications can treat infections and skin conditions.** If you have a yeast infection, use a cream with butoconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, and/or terconazole as an active ingredient. If the skin around your vagina is flaky or red and bumpy, talk to a gynecologist or dermatologist, as they can prescribe you a steroid cream that fits your needs.
Before treating anything, make sure you know what type of infection or condition you have, as applying the wrong cream could worsen the itch.
If you have a yeast infection, you might also experience white, thick discharge and a burning feeling when you pee.
Lichen sclerosis, eczema, and psoriasis are common skin conditions that cause vaginal itching, dry skin, and blotchy redness.
7. **Improve your vaginal health by eating more yogurt and sauerkraut.** Some of the most common vaginal infections, like BV and yeast infections, can be prevented by adding a few more probiotics to your diet. Opt for a yogurt parfait for breakfast, add a pickle to your sandwich, or scoop some sauerkraut or kimchi onto your grain bowl. The more fermented foods you eat, the better your overall health will be.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common infection that happens when normal vaginal bacteria overgrows and disrupts the vagina’s pH balance.
If changing your diet isn’t an option, no worry! Add a probiotic supplement to your daily vitamins or medicines to get that extra probiotic boost.
8. **Opt for fragrance-free lotions, soaps, and detergents.** Vaginitis or mild allergic reactions could cause vaginal itching. Swap your body wash with something unscented and/or try out a hypoallergenic fragrance-free laundry detergent. Use these new products for a week or so and see if your itch goes away.
Consider washing your vagina with a feminine wash like the SweetSpot pH Balanced Feminine Wash, Honey Pot Sensitive Feminine Wash, Love Wellness pH Balancing Cleanser, or Summer’s Eve Cleansing Wash.
9. **Cotton underwear** Most of the time, vaginal itching is caused by skin irritation or infections. When bacteria builds up inside the vagina, that’s when the itching starts. Wearing cotton instead of synthetic underwear helps your vagina “breathe” to prevent future itch.
Change your underwear daily to keep everything down there clean and fresh.
10. **Sitting in wet clothes can cause vaginal bacteria to build.** After you go swimming or exercise, make sure to change your clothes right away, especially your underwear. Bacteria love moist environments, and too much bacteria can lead to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis (BV). Avoid this by bringing an extra set of clothes with you to the beach or gym.
Before you change, make sure to dry your vagina thoroughly.
11. **Prevent future infection and itch by wiping correctly in the bathroom.** Believe it or not, the way you wipe after you’ve done your business can affect your vaginal health. Always wipe from the front of your vagina to the back; otherwise, you may spread unwanted bacteria from your butt to your vagina.
12. **Never flush out your vagina unless you’re medically told to do so.** Douching is the process of washing the inside of your vagina by squirting water or other mixtures into your vagina. Most doctors don’t recommend this cleaning method because it can harm the natural bacteria and pH balance of your vagina, which can cause infections.
When you douche, you’re at higher risk of bacterial vaginosis (BV), pelvic inflammatory disease, STIs, and vaginal irritation.
Instead of douching, let your vagina clean itself. Wash your vagina with warm water and mild unscented soap in the shower or bath, and let it do the rest—the body’s amazing!
13. **Condoms can help prevent STDs and STIs.** The best way to avoid coming in contact with sexually transmitted diseases or infections is to practice safe sex. Express your need and want to use a barrier method while having sex with your partner. One simple thing can help you both stay safe, so you can keep having fun.
Male condoms slide over the penis to help prevent sperm from going into the vagina.
Female condoms are small pouches placed inside the vagina to line it.
Condoms are the only barrier method that can help prevent STIs and STDs.
14. **If your symptoms persist, make an appointment with your doctor.** Sometimes home remedies aren’t enough to stop your itch, especially if there’s an underlying problem like an infection or STD. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience one or more of these symptoms on top of your itch:
Change in color, odor, and consistency of discharge.
Redness and swelling in or around your vagina.
Have blisters or sores on your vagina or vulva.
Burning or difficulty urinating.
Changes in mood or menstrual cycle.
Believe you’ve been exposed to an STI or STD. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Vaginal-Itching", "language": "en"} |
How to Culture Greenwater | Greenwater, or phytoplankton, are known by most aquarium hobbyists as good quality small fish fry food, like betta fry. This article will outline some of the ways you can make your own.
1. **Put aged aquarium water in a clear container.**
2. **Expose the water to the sun.** Doing this takes quite a long time for the algae to bloom. See the next method for something faster.
3. **Pluck 10 smoothly surfaced and thin leaves.**
4. **Wash and rinse the leaves until they are clean.** Don't use soap!
5. **Put the leaves in the blender with water.** You can also add fish micro pellets to help the culture bloom more quickly.
6. **Blend the water with the leaves.** Do this for about 1 minute.
7. **Sieve any blended leaves and put the water in a bottle.**
8. **Put the bottle under a bright light overnight so that the phytoplankton will bloom.**
9. **Fill a bucket with water.**
10. **Put the greenwater that has been sitting under a bright light overnight in the bucket.**
11. **Let the bucket sit under the sun.** In about a few days, the phytoplankton will grow. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Culture-Greenwater", "language": "en"} |
How to Convince Your Parents to Let You Do Dance | Whether you've suddenly discovered a love of dance or been passionate about it for a long time, you likely want to put on your dancing shoes! However, maybe your parents aren't sold on the idea. Start by bringing up the topic and then work on offering solutions to your parents' concerns. Whatever way the conversation goes, make sure to be respectful and show maturity so that you're more likely to get a "yes" in the future.
1. **Pick a good time to have the conversation.** Don't ask your parents when they're running out the door or trying to fix dinner. Choose a time when they are relaxed and have time to listen to you. They'll be more open to talking then.
If you're not sure when a good time to talk would be, ask. You could say, "Hey, I'd like to talk to you two about something important. When would be a good time?" However, when you ask, be prepared to sit down right then, as your parents may decide now is a good time.
2. **Start by telling your parents exactly what you're asking for.** In this case, you want permission to let you take dance lessons or join a team. Then, you can ask your parents to listen to your reasons.
For example, you might say, "Can I talk to you about something? I'd like to get your permission to join dance. Before you say yes or no, will you hear me out?"
3. **Bring up positive points about joining dance.** Come up with some talking points ahead of time before you discuss it with your parents. Include reasons why dance could be beneficial to you and your academic work and why you want to do it.
For instance, you might note that dancing can improve your work ethic, encourage creative and critical thinking, and help your memory skills.
You might note that it's a way to build friendships and a good way to keep fit.
For your personal reasons, you might say, "I've wanted to dance for a long time. I love the way that dance allows you to express yourself with your body, and I could make some new friends, too."
4. **Ask your parents what they think and listen.** Once you're done, it's your parents' turn to talk. Ask what their thoughts are on the subject. Don't just dismiss what they have to say. Really listen to them and consider what they're saying and why.
For instance, you could say, "Well, those are my points. What are your thoughts on me joining dance?" If they say, "No" or "I'm not sure," you might say, "What are your concerns?"
5. **Write your parents a letter if you can't face them directly.** Sometimes, it's hard to think clearly while you're having a discussion with your parents. You may get defensive or angry, and that doesn't help your case. Instead, try writing it out in a letter. Clearly state what you want, why you think it's positive, and the reasons you'd like to do it.
For example, you might write, "Dear Mom and Dad, I wanted to write you a letter because I'm having trouble expressing my feelings. I would like you to consider letting me join dance. Before you say 'no,' hear me out, please. Here are my reasons why I think it's a good thing and why I want to do it..."
6. **Tell your parents you understand where they're coming from.** In any discussion, it's good to let the other side know you can understand how they feel. Tell them you empathize with them before diving into ways you can address their concerns. That will help bridge the divide between you and your parents.
For example, you might say, "I do understand what you're saying about schoolwork. I know that school is very important, and I know you want me to focus on getting good grades. I totally get where you're coming from."
7. **Brainstorm ways you can overcome the obstacles together.** Whatever your parents' objections are, you can work together to come up with solutions. When your parents say they're worried about a certain aspect of you dancing, talk about ways you can make them more comfortable.
For example, if your parents are worried about you getting back and forth from dance, you might brainstorm ideas about how you could get there. Maybe you could ride with a friend, walk, ride a bike, or take the bus.
If your parents are worried about dance taking too much time, work together to come up with a schedule so you can show your parents you can get everything done.
8. **Show your parents how dance might help your schoolwork.** Many dancers actually see an improvement in their academics, and at the very least, most are able to maintain their grades. Dancing builds a solid work ethic, and it helps you learn how to problem-solve, both of which will benefit you in school.
For instance, show your parents that dance builds your critical thinking skills, and dancers do better on memory tests than non-dancers.
You could also make a promise that if your grades start to slip, you'll quit dance.
9. **Discuss ways you can help financially.** Dance can be very expensive, and your parents may not be able to afford it. However, there are ways you can assist them. For instance, some dance schools offer scholarships for students, while others will let you work at the school to help pay for your classes.
You could also offer to get a part-time job or take on small side jobs like babysitting. In addition, tell your parents you'll buy used shoes and other items as often as you can.
10. **Discuss a second major if they're wondering about job prospects later on.** Your parents are likely thinking ahead to college and your career, and they may feel dancing isn't a career. The good news is that you need a college degree to dance with most productions or companies, and while you're getting a degree in dance, you can get a second major in something else.
For instance, you could get a degree in something like business or even dance management.
11. **Have an expert meet with your parents.** You may not be able to address all of their concerns. If that's the case, ask if they'll meet with a dance teacher or someone involved with the dance school you'd like to attend. Most of them are more than willing to sit down with parents, and then they can have all their questions answered.
12. **Be respectful to your parents.** No matter what, be polite and respectful while you're having this conversation. Listen politely to your parents' concerns without rolling your eyes, sighing, or generally being annoying. Being respectful will help show your parents you're ready for a responsibility like dancing.
13. **Stay calm and avoid temper tantrums.** You may find yourself getting angry as you listen to your parents. That's natural if they're telling you that you can't do something that you want to do. However, yelling, screaming, kicking, or calling them names is just going to prove their point that you're not ready.
Instead, try to stay calm. Speak in a regular tone of voice and avoid stomping off if you get angry.
If you find both you and your parents are getting angry, try taking a break. You can revisit the conversation later.
14. **Give your parents honest, direct information.** Don't try to trick them into letting you dance by telling them what they want to hear. For instance, don't say it won't cost anything if you know it's going to cost quite a bit. They will only find out later, and then you'll be in more trouble.
You may ruin your chances of dancing in the long-term if you lie to dance in the short-term.
15. **Take "no" for an answer for now.** If you have a good, open discussion with your parents and they still say "no," don't despair. It's important for you to accept this decision now, as that shows maturity. However, keep in mind that circumstances could be different in the future, and if you're willing to show maturity now, they may change their minds.
For example, you might say, "I'm really disappointed, but I understand why you're saying no. Could we possibly revisit another time?" | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Convince-Your-Parents-to-Let-You-Do-Dance", "language": "en"} |
How to Weatherproof a Shed | Sheds are not always as hardy as other buildings against bad weather, so applying some weatherproofing features is a good idea. For new sheds, building it off the ground is the place to start. Waterproof paint for the outside and insulation for the inside of the shed are good ways to keep moisture from soaking into the wood. The roof will take the majority of inclement weather, so attaching roofing felt is one of the most beneficial ways to weatherproof the shed.
1. **Build the shed up off of the ground.** If you are building a new shed, it is important to build it on supports rather than directly on the ground. Use cinder blocks or other stone shed supports, or use treated wood to build a framework that keeps it off of the ground.
Building the shed on supports keeps groundwater from soaking into it.
Your options are limited if your shed is already sitting directly on the ground. You could use heavy machinery to lift the shed and then add a support structure under the shed.
Most sheds installed by professionals are built up off of the ground.
2. **Paint the outside with waterproof paint.** Go to the hardware store and look in the paint aisle or speak to an employee. Choose an exterior paint that is specifically labelled as waterproof. Paint the entire exterior of the shed, including all four sides and the roof.
This creates a water-repelling barrier so the water is not absorbed.
If you are painting in conjunction with felting the roof, paint the roof in between cleaning the roof and applying the new felt.
3. **Caulk gaps in the shed's main structure.** Grab a caulking gun and some all-purpose, exterior caulk. Look carefully for gaps at the corners and edges of the shed. Check the walls and the ceiling for holes or spaces between boards. Fill any gaps that you find with caulk.
4. **Check that the doors and windows are sealed.** Always close the doors, and check to make sure they fit against the shed tightly so that nothing gets in. If there are windows that open, make sure they are shut tight any time you are away from the shed. Look around doors and windows for gaps that need to be filled.
5. **Apply weatherstripping around windows and doors.** If your windows and doors don't already have foam seals around them, add some. Foam weatherstripping usually comes in a roll and is easy to apply around door frames and windows. It creates a seal for gaps between doors and windows and the frame of the building.
6. **Insulate the inside of the shed.** Insulation creates a waterproof layer around the inside structure of the shed. Staple insulation to the support studs of the shed, not to the outside paneling. Insulate the roof, as well as the walls.
Bubble wrap is a cheap and effective way to insulate a shed, but you can also use standard fiberglass insulation.
Stapling insulation to the studs creates a small air pocket between the outer paneling and the insulation, which helps reduce moisture.
7. **Measure the area of the roof.** Measure the length and width of one side of the roof. Multiply those numbers to get the area of that side. If the shed is a basic A-frame, multiply that number by two to get the total area of the roof. If the roof has an irregular shape, find the area of each part of the roof.
You’ll need to set up a ladder so you can reach the roof. You may also want to have someone on another ladder at the other end of the roof to help you.
Write the numbers down so you don’t forget them.
8. **Buy shed roofing felt.** Go to the local hardware or home improvement store and locate roof felt. Use the roof area numbers that you wrote down when you measured to ensure that you buy enough felt to cover the entire roof.
If you have multiple options of roof felt, you’ll have to choose what is in your price range and seems like quality felt.
9. **Remove existing felt or shingles.** Climb up the ladder with a scraper of some kind. A scraper on a long pole is most effective. Position the scraper under the old felt or shingles and work it forward and backward so the roof covering comes loose. If the felt is nailed down or glued tight, this can be time consuming.
Be sure to dispose of the felt in the garbage once it is all removed.
10. **Clean the surface of the roof and remove nails.** Use a claw hammer or another nail removing tool to pull any nails that are crooked or sticking up from the roof. Any nails that are hammered flush with the roof decking can be left in place. Use a wet rag to wipe down the surface if it seems grimy.
Be sure to toss the nails into a bucket or trash barrel so they don’t end up in your yard. Loose nails can pop mower tires or end up in someone’s foot if you leave them on the ground.
11. **Paint the roof with waterproof paint or primer.** As mentioned above, weatherproof paint or primer adds an extra layer of sealant, even if you're covering the roof with felt. Paint the roof at the same time that you paint the rest of the shed, or paint it separately when you are focused on felting the shed.
12. **Lay the first piece of felt along the bottom edge of the roof.** Unroll the felt horizontally along the length of the roof. Be sure to hang the felt about an inch over the edge of the roof so that water will run off.
The width of the rolls of felt you bought and the size of the roof will determine how many pieces of felt you need to lay.
13. **Nail the felt down with galvanized clout nails.** The exact type of nail you use can vary, but it’s important to use galvanized nails to insure that they don’t rust. Pound nails into the felt as you unroll it so that it stays in place. Nail around the entire perimeter of the felt, putting a nail roughly every 30cm (about every foot).
You’ll need to use nails that are at about 20mm (⅘ inch) long to ensure they go through the felt and secure into the roof.
14. **Overlap the second piece over the first piece.** When the first piece of felt is nailed in place, unroll the second piece horizontally as before. Make sure that it slightly overlaps the first piece to aid the flow of water. Nail the second piece in place as before.
Cover the whole side of the roof in this way. You may only need one or two pieces, depending on the size of the roof and the size of the felt roll. If you only need to use one piece, move to the other side of the roof.
15. **Nail felt to the second side of the roof.** Cover the second part of the roof in the same way you covered the first side. Start at the bottom and hang a bit of felt over the edge. Nail the felt in place as you go along. Be sure to overlap each piece on top of the one before it.
16. **Center a final piece of felt over the apex so it overlaps both sides of the roof.** When both sides of the roof are felted, lay one final piece on the top point of the roof. You don’t have to use a piece that is the full width of the roll. Cut it down to one foot or so, making sure it covers the crack of the apex and overlaps each side of the roof.
Since the felt on the sides of the roof form a crack at the top, it’s important to cover this with a final solid piece. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Weatherproof-a-Shed", "language": "en"} |
How to Search eBooks on Google | If you are doing research on a particular subject or field, one of the best ways is to search for eBooks online and read them. Google is one helpful tool you can use to find eBooks on the Internet. With Google, whether on your computer or mobile device, you can discover and easily locate eBooks.
1. **Visit the Google Books search engine.** Google Books is a project by Google that allows users to read or preview books online. Open a new browser tab or window and go to the Google Books website. You will be taken to a page with two rectangular boxes. A bold title “Google Books” is on top of these boxes. The box found at the left-hand side of the page has a text field and a search button inside. The other box on the right side of the page has a blue “Go to Google Play Now” button. This button takes you to Google Play website.
2. **Search for the books on the topic you are researching.** Take the cursor and click the text field mentioned above. Type the keywords of the subject you want eBooks on. You can also type the name of the book or an author, if you know of any. Now click the “Search” button.
You can also search for eBooks by category. Type the category name in the text field (e.g., romance, sci-fi, and so on) then click the search button for Google to return results under that category.
3. **Select the eBooks you want to read.** A number of results are returned after hitting the “Search” button. Scroll and click a book that interests you. You will be taken to the page where the book you selected is opened. The book content is displayed in the middle area of this page. The left side of the page contains information like the author and title of the book.
If the book is free, you can go ahead and read it by scrolling down the page of the book; otherwise, you will only be able to preview a few select pages.
4. **Open the Google search engine.** Open a new web browser and go to the Google website. This will direct you to the Google search page. The page has a Google logo, Google search box, and a Google search button.
5. **Do a Google search using intitle operator.** The syntax for doing this is “intitle:index.of?file-format subject-name”. This query is typed in the Google search box. Replace file format to the format you want, e.g., pdf. Also, change the subject-name to the topic you are researching. Your search query should look like “intitle:index.of?pdf javascript.” When done, hit the “Search” button.
The intitle operator searches web servers containing eBooks with the format specified and information matching the subject mentioned. In the example, books about Javascript whose format is pdf are returned.
6. **Select and read the book.** Scroll through the list of books returned, and select a book by clicking on it. The selected book will open in the next page for you to read, if free, or preview and purchase.
7. **Open the Google search engine.** Open a new web browser and go to the Google wbsite. This will direct you to the Google search page. The page has a Google logo, Google search box, and a Google search button.
8. **Type the allinurl query in the Google Search box.** This operator searches the web and returns web pages whose URLs contain the keywords mentioned. URL stands for uniform resource locator. It is simply the address of the website. The syntax for this query is allinurl:file-format”subject-name”. Remember to replace file-format and subject-name to suit what you want. Your search query can be like allinurl:pdf”javascript”.
9. **Hit the Google search button.** Once you click the “Search” button, Google will go through the entire Internet and return eBooks whose web addresses contain the keywords entered above. For example, eBooks that have Javascript on their address are returned.
10. **Scroll down and click on an eBooks returned.** Scroll through the list and see if there are any that interest you. Should you find one you like, click it; this then opens up on another page for you to read the eBooks or purchase it.
11. **Launch Google Play Books.** Go to the app menu of your phone and tap on Google Play Books icon to start the app. If you do not have the app installed on your phone, you can visit your respective app store and get the app for free.
12. **Select the “Books” option from the left panel of the page.** When Google Play Books is launched, it opens up the home screen page. On the top left of the page are two options: Apps and Books. Tap “Books” to select it.
13. **Tap the “Top Charts” option.** The books option above takes you to the screen called Books. This screen has a number of items. On the topmost part of the screen is a search box. Right in front of the search box is a blue search. Below the search box is a navigation bar. The navigation bar has the options Games, Home, Top Charts, and New Arrivals. Tap “Top Charts” to see a number of books listed.
14. **Select an eBooks.** Scroll through the list, and tap the book you would like to read. The book expands and then opens up for you to read.
15. **Search for the book using the search box.** If you want to search for a specific book, rather than browser, you can use the Google Books search feature.
Tap the search box at the top of the page and type the keywords of the book you are looking for. If you do not know the name of the book, you can do the search by category or author. Type the category/author name into the search box.
Tap the “Search” button in front of the search box. Google Play Books will load for a while and return a number of books matching your search above.
Scroll through the search results, and tap on a book you will like to read. The book expands and opens up for you to preview and/or purchase. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Search-eBooks-on-Google", "language": "en"} |
How to Drive a Car in Reverse Gear | Driving in reverse can be intimidating to inexperienced and seasoned drivers alike. Because the wheels you use to steer are in front of you as you move backwards and your vision is obscured by the vehicle, backing up can be one of the tougher tasks faced by drivers. By driving slowly and paying close attention to your surroundings, you can improve your ability to drive in reverse.
1. **Conduct a “360 degree check.”** A “360 degree check” is when you actively turn your head and shoulders to look all around your vehicle in a complete circle. Make sure there is nothing in your way or moving toward you that you may need to take into account before backing up.
It’s okay to use your mirrors to aid in your check, but it’s important that you actively look around to ensure you don’t miss anything.
Make sure to look toward the ground on either side of your vehicle using your head and mirrors to ensure there are no people or animals laying in your path.
2. **Place your right foot on the brake.** When driving forward or in reverse, your right foot should be the only one on the gas or brake pedal. If your car is equipped with a standard transmission, your left foot manages the clutch, but in vehicle’s with automatic transmissions, the left foot simply goes unused. Press your right foot on the brake pedal firmly, so that the vehicle won’t move once it is in reverse.
The brake pedal is in the middle on vehicle’s equipped with a standard transmission and is the furthest to the left in automatic vehicles.
The brake pedal is the widest pedal.
3. **Put your left hand on the top middle of the steering wheel.** While it may be customary to drive with your hands at ten and two o’clock on the steering wheel, backing up will require that you turn your body to the right. Place your left hand at the top of the wheel so you can easily make small adjustments to keep the vehicle moving straight as you back up.
It may be difficult to reach the steering wheel with your right hand while backing up, so steering with one hand is optimal.
4. **Put the vehicle in reverse.** Depending on the transmission your vehicle came equipped with, there are a few ways you may need to shift into reverse. On automatic vehicles, it usually requires pressing a button on the shift lever and pulling it backward until it is aligned with the letter “R.” In standard vehicles equipped with a five speed transmission, you can usually shift into reverse by pressing the shift lever all the way to the left and pulling it backward.
In vehicles equipped with six speed standard transmissions, reverse is usually all the way to the left and up, next to first gear.
Some cars require that you press down on the shift lever or press a release to access the reverse gear.
If you are unsure of how to shift into reverse, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
5. **Look out the back of the car over your passenger side shoulder.** Provided your view is not obstructed, twist your body to the passenger side so you can look out the back window of your vehicle over your right or passenger side shoulder. Make sure you do not remove your foot from the brake pedal. If you are driving a box truck or other vehicle that blocks your view out the back window, you will have to rely on your side mirrors to guide you.
You may choose to place your right hand on the top of the passenger seat to help you comfortably look out the back.
If you are relying on your mirrors, make sure to check each of them frequently.
6. **Ease your right foot off the brake slowly.** As you take the pressure off of the brake pedal with your right foot, the vehicle will begin to move backward. Most vehicle’s engines idle at a high enough RPM (revolutions per minute) to propel the vehicle without any need to apply the gas. Keep your foot hovering over the brake pedal as you back up just in case you need to stop or slow down.
Ease off the brake slowly to ensure you do not accelerate too quickly to easily manage..
If your vehicle is equipped with a standard transmission, you will need to use the gas as you ease off the clutch, but can then allow the vehicle to idle.
7. **Turn the wheel in the direction you want the back of the car to turn.** The dynamic of driving in reverse is quite different than that of normal driving because the wheels you turn to steer are at the front of the car. As you back up, make small adjustments by turning the wheel in the direction you want the back of the car to turn toward.
Turning the wheel to the left as you back up will cause the back of the car to go left and vice versa.
Stop the car if you feel uneasy about the direction it is heading, then set off again once you’ve gained control.
8. **Check the clearance of the front end.** As you turn the vehicle, the front end of the car will swing in the opposite direction the back end is turning. Check the area around the front of the car frequently as you back up slowly to ensure you don’t hit or run over anything with the front wheels.
If you are turning left as you back up, the front of the car will swing to the right, and vice versa.
Make sure you are going slowly enough that you can check the front of the car for clearance without hitting anything.
9. **Transition your right foot to the gas pedal if needed.** If you are backing up a hill or need to turn, you may need to utilize the gas pedal occasionally while backing up. Once your right foot is completely off of the brake, move it over the gas pedal to the right of the brake. Press down on the pedal slowly to control the amount of speed you pick up as you back up.
Make subtle adjustments to your speed by applying pressure to the gas pedal.
Bring your foot back to the brake once you have gained sufficient speed or if you need to slow back down.
10. **Use two hands to steer when turning.** If you need to turn around an obstacle while backing up, you may want to use both hands to manipulate the steering wheel. Using one hand, you can usually only turn the wheel up to ninety degrees in each direction, so if you need to take a steeper turn, using both hands may help. Make sure that you can still see behind you as you place your right hand back on the wheel if you need to.
Never cross your hands over one another while turning the wheel. Instead push the wheel with one hand and pull it with the other.
11. **Never go faster than you feel comfortable controlling.** Backing up can feel quite different than driving forward, and your view is often compromised by the back of the car and a limited view out of your window. Do not hurry yourself while backing up and instead take your time to prevent accidents.
Never drive your vehicle in a manner that feels unsafe.
Feel free to stop the vehicle and take a minute if you feel uncertain about what you’re doing.
12. **Press the brake with your right foot firmly to stop.** When you’ve backed up far enough, press your foot back down on the brake pedal gradually to come to a smooth stop. Be careful not to apply too much pressure too quickly, or you will stop the vehicle abruptly.
Use only your right foot to apply the brakes in your vehicle.
Keep your foot pressed on the brake once the vehicle has stopped.
13. **Put the vehicle in park or set the parking brake when you’re done.** With your foot firmly on the brake pedal, press the button the shift lever in automatic vehicles and press it forward until it is aligned with the “P” that indicates that it is in park. In standard transmission equipped vehicles, simply take the shift lever out of gear (in neutral) and apply the parking brake by pulling up on the handle or pressing down on the pedal.
If you are unsure where to locate your parking brake or how to engage it, refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual for guidance.
14. **Check your mirrors before you begin.** If you cannot see out the back of the vehicle, you will need to use your side mirrors to see as you back up. Before you begin, adjust your side mirrors to ensure you can see the side of the vehicle, the ground, and anything coming up from behind you.
In many cars you can adjust both mirrors from the driver’s seat, but in some you may need to adjust them manually by hand on each side.
15. **Check each mirror frequently.** Using mirrors will only show you what is behind your vehicle on either side, so it’s important to check both sides often. This will prevent you from accidentally hitting something, or from not noticing as someone approaches from one side or the other.
You likely will need to drive even slower in reverse when using mirrors to be sure you don’t miss anything.
It may help to pay closer attention to the mirror on a side with an obstacle, so you can keep your eyes on it.
16. **Enlist the help of a friend.** If you are backing up using only your mirrors in a difficult area, you may choose to ask a friend to guide you. Using your mirrors to keep an eye on a friend that is checking your clearances from the back may be your best option when driving a box truck or something else with severely limited visibility.
Have your friend stand behind the vehicle on one side to ensure you can see them as they guide you.
Make sure to open your windows and turn off the radio to hear your friend’s instructions as you back up. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Drive-a-Car-in-Reverse-Gear", "language": "en"} |
How to Deal with Molar Pregnancy | Molar pregnancy is a condition that occurs when the placenta forms cysts instead of a normal placenta. This condition is also called hydatidiform mole. It occurs due to problems during fertilization and, unfortunately, you cannot cause or prevent it. In more extreme forms neither the embryo nor the placenta develop correctly. In less extreme forms the embryo may start to develop and there may be some normal placenta tissue, however the embryo will not be able to survive. A molar pregnancy must be treated as early as possible to make sure that it does not develop into cancer that could endanger the mother, though this is extremely rare.
1. **Wait to get pregnant if you had a previous molar pregnancy.** If you have had one molar pregnancy, your risk of having a second is about 1 – 2%. Molar pregnancies are also more common in women who are younger than 20 or over 45.Your doctor may suggest waiting a year before trying again to get pregnant.
Waiting will allow you to fully recover from the last one and to make sure all of the molar tissue was removed. If you get pregnant too soon, you have a higher risk of having another molar pregnancy.
2. **Learn about molar pregnancies.** Molar pregnancy occurs due to problems that occur during fertilization and result in nonviable embryos. This means that you cannot prevent or cause it. 0.1% to 0.3% of pregnancies are molar.
In a complete molar pregnancy, the genetic material from the mother’s egg is lost or inactive and the genetic material from the sperm is duplicated.
In a partial molar pregnancy, the father provides twice as much genetic material as normal, even though the genetic material from the mother is still there. This can happen if two sperm fertilize one egg.
3. **Watch for symptoms of a molar pregnancy.** If you are pregnant and have the following symptoms, you should go immediately to the doctor to get checked.
Passing cysts through your vagina. They may be as large as grapes.
Bleeding from your vagina during the first few months of pregnancy. The blood may be dark brown or fresh and bright red. Bleeding is usually heavier than it would be with a miscarriage, especially if you wait to be seen by a doctor.
Nausea or vomiting. This may be so severe that you require hospitalization.
A feeling of pressure or discomfort in your abdomen.
4. **Get checked by a doctor.** If you have had any symptoms of a molar pregnancy, your doctor will examine you for other signs such as:
Abnormal levels of the pregnancy hormone HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin
Ovarian cysts
A uterus that is expanding too fast for the stage of pregnancy you are in
Anemia
A raise in blood pressure before 20 weeks
Preeclampsia, which is a dangerous condition in which your blood pressure increases and you get protein in your urine. You may have swelling in your feet and legs.
5. **Confirm the diagnosis with an ultrasound.** A complete molar pregnancy can be seen on ultrasounds as early as eight weeks into the pregnancy. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create a picture of the uterus and developing baby.
If you have a complete molar pregnancy, the ultrasound may show that no embryo has developed, there is no amniotic fluid, the uterus is filled with a cystic placenta, or ovarian cysts.
If you have a partial molar pregnancy, the ultrasound may reveal that the fetus is not growing properly, there is not enough amniotic fluid around the fetus, and the placenta is thick and filled with cysts.
6. **Have the cystic tissue removed.** Even a partial molar pregnancy cannot develop into a viable fetus and must be removed. The doctor will:
Use a technique called dilation and curettage. This is done as an outpatient procedure so you will be able to go home the same day.
The doctor will dilate your cervix and insert a small vacuum through your vagina and into your uterus. The vacuum will remove the cystic tissue.
7. **Allow the doctor to monitor your HCG levels after the tissue has been removed.** The doctor will monitor your levels of HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin, which is how they can tell if all of the tissue is gone and if a cancer is developing after a molar pregnancy. This is why it is absolutely essential you go to your follow up appointments. If your HCG levels do not drop back to normal after treatment, it suggests that all the cystic tissue may not have been removed.
Remaining cystic tissue is usually effectively treated with chemotherapy, usually methotrexate. Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, dizziness, or temporary hair loss.
The doctor may want to continue monitoring your hormone levels for up to a year. Again, it is extremely important you allow your doctor to monitor your HCG levels for as long as they deem necessary.
8. **Get emotional support.** The emotional effects of losing a fetus and worrying about the risks of developing cancer can be severe. You may find it helpful to:
Talk to your doctor
See a counselor to help you deal with the grief and anxiety
Get support from family and friends
Find a support group or online forum. Options include the Molar Pregnancy Support group (http://www.molarpregnancy.co.uk/), MyMolarPregnancy (https://mymolarpregnancy.com/), or the Hydatidiform Mole UK Information and Support Service (http://www.hmole-chorio.org.uk/index.html) | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-Molar-Pregnancy", "language": "en"} |
How to Be Independent As a Wheelchair User | Wheelchair use has been on the rise in the last two decades. As the number of individuals using a wheelchair has increased, so have the opportunities for enjoying a full and independent life. By exploring your options to get out of the house, adapting your lifestyle, and maintaining your health and wellbeing, you can be an independent wheelchair user.
1. **Take a wheelchair skills class.** Individuals in wheelchairs may feel limited by things such as moving while holding things. Many places offer wheelchair skills classes to increase your feeling of independence and inspire you to rethink what your future holds. These classes cover the basics including pushing forwards and backwards, but they also address more complex moves like pushing with 1 hand, going up and down ramps and even stairs, and navigating curbs.
Ask your doctor, physical therapist, or other wheelchair users if they know of any wheelchair skills classes in your area.
Look for online programs to teach you wheelchair skills. Organizations such as the University of Washington or the United Spinal Association offer online wheelchair skills training. Make sure that you have a physical therapist or trained spotter on hand to prevent falls.
2. **Pursue your interests.** Participating in activities you enjoy can get you outside of your home and help you be more independent. It can also keep you physically and emotionally engaged, which promotes your health and well-being.
Participate in group activities such as book clubs or sports-focused groups. Consider getting together with other wheelchair users for things like a stroll around your local area every morning.
3. **Maintain a positive outlook.** You might feel like you can do less in a wheelchair. But this isn’t the case: you can do as much as someone who isn’t in a wheelchair, from participating in races to cooking meals and even skydiving. Keeping your outlook positive and expectations for yourself high can help boost your confidence. It can also show others how capable you are, which will keep them from expecting less from you.
Take time to explore all of the things you can do with a wheelchair, including things that wheelchair users may not be able to do. For example, you can try things such as skydiving, parasailing, waterskiing, basketball, hunting, kayaking, rock climbing, golf, skiing, and bowling. Doing these types of activities can boost your mood—and your confidence. Recognize that you can also do things such as preparing a big meal for your family, attend concerts, and even go on a vacation.
Talking with a peer support group of other wheelchair users can help you adjust to being in a wheelchair and figure out ways to stay positive.
4. **Overcome fear and concerns.** Being in a wheelchair is a big adjustment for any person. It might cause you fear, anxiety, and concern about how to navigate the world. Acknowledging your fears and concerns can help you overcome them and embrace life and the world around you.
Remember that there are few limitations in a wheelchair when you put your mind to something. In fact, new technologies are allowing wheelchair users to push the boundaries of perceived limitations.
Seek out encouragement from friends, family members, and other wheelchair users. These people can boost your confidence and help you tackle anything that you put your mind to.
Meet with a therapist who specializes in working with wheelchair users. This person can give you techniques to overcome your fear, concern, and anxiety. For example, the therapist may suggest scripting, which is visualizing how something will play out and then following through on that scenario in real life.
5. **Accept help when you need it.** In some cases, you may actually need help with something. There is nothing wrong with asking or accepting help when it’s necessary. This doesn’t mean that you are any less dependent, but understand your boundaries. This can also help others know when you may need a little assistance.
Recognize that many people might want to or offer help. Decline the person or people politely and with a smile. For example, say, “Thank you so much for your kind offer, but I think I’ve got this.”
Reach out for assistance to loved ones if you need it. You can say, “Hi Allie, I’m sorry to bother you, but my transportation service just called to cancel. Would you be able to run me to the store or pick up a few things for me. I am running low on food and some other necessities.”
6. **Make your home more maneuverable.** One of the easiest ways to be more independent is by removing obstacles that may make it more difficult to move throughout your home. This could mean installing ramps and rails, removing thresholds, to storing items at an easily accessible height. In many cases, you can subsidize modifications to make your home more maneuverable.
Check your flooring to see if you can easily move on it. It may be difficult to navigate with thick carpeting or area rugs. Look for any obstacles that might get in your way. This can be tables, chairs, or even the corners of items in your home.
Keep your basic necessities within arm’s reach. This includes toiletries and medications as well as food and kitchen items. Add ramps and grab bars where you might need them, such as in the bathroom and at entryways to your home.
Consider working with an ergonomics specialist or occupational therapist to find the adaptations that may work best for you.
7. **Get support for modifying your home.** Once you have an idea of what home modifications you may need, you may start to worry about the cost. It can be expensive to modify your home to be more independent. This shouldn’t be of significant concern because there are many programs available to subsidize the costs of making necessary modifications.
Consult the service offered by the National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification for information on home modification in your area at http://gero.usc.edu/nrcshhm/directory/.
Speak to your insurance company about what modifications it will cover. Contact local, state, and federal programs designed to provide financial assistance to people who need to make home modifications.
Consider moving to a Center for Independent Living (CIL), which is a consumer‑controlled, community‑based, cross‑disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agency designed and operated by individuals with disabilities within a local community. A CIL also offers a wide array of independent living services. Find and get contact information for your local CIL at http://www.ilru.org/projects/cil-net/cil-center-and-association-directory.
8. **Investigate adaptive driving.** There are many options for drivers with disabilities, including those individuals who use a wheelchair. Consult a specialist in converting wheelchair-accessible vehicles about your needs and wishes. Driving can greatly increase your independence and may help you have a more active lifestyle.
Consult with your doctor or other medical professionals about any specific modifications you need or they might suggest for you. You can use this information when seeking a dealer who can make modifications to your car.
Follow up with local car dealers to see if they are able to modify your car for adaptive driving. You can also easily find local partners of the Adaptive Driving Alliance (ADA), which is a nationwide group of vehicle modification dealers who offer transportation solutions. Find ADA’s website at http://www.adamobility.com/consumers.
Let the dealer know about your needs and wishes. Ask your dealer about financing options, including Veterans assistance programs, Medicare, Medicaid, Vocational Rehabilitation, and manufacturer rebate programs.
9. **Find a transportation service** Many localities offer transportation for individuals who use wheelchairs. Using public transportation and/ or transport services can offer you the chance to get out of the house to do activities such as shopping, exercising, or maintaining an active social life.
Call your local public transportation system or ask your medical professionals for information on what services are available to you.
Contact the National Aging and Disability Transport Center (NADTC) for assistance in local public transportation or transportation services in your local area. Call 1.866.983.3222 and press 3 to speak to a Locator Transportation Specialist. Ask the specialist to put you on the list to receive the NADTC’s monthly email alerts about the latest technology trends in transportation for persons with disabilities. You can also contact your state’s 2-1-1 information line for information on local accessible transportation.
10. **Stick to places with wheelchair access.** In the United States and many other countries, there is legislation that ensures equal opportunity to individuals with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation. Many places are marked with the international access symbol, which is a blue square with a person in a wheelchair in white. Look for these signs to locate access features such as ramps, automatic door openers, or elevators.
Figure out options of places you plan to go. Call ahead and ask if they are wheelchair accessible. If they are not, then choose a location that is so that you don’t have to rely on help.
Upload an app to find wheelchair accessible places if you have a smartphone. Apps such as Wheelmap, Wheely, Urban Spoon, and It’s Accessible can all help you locate offices, restaurants, and other places that are wheelchair accessible.
Ask businesses or organization to consider following local, state, and national regulation on accessibility for wheelchair users and others with disabilities.
11. **Travel on vacation with confidence.** Being in a wheelchair doesn’t mean you just need to stay in your local area or places that you can drive. Decide on a place you’d like to go and consult a travel agent who specializes in disabled travel or has experience working with wheelchair uses.
Consider booking a vacation package designed for persons in wheelchairs.
Book your travel as far in advance as you can. This can not only ensure that you have accessible amenities, but minimizes the risk of potentially uncomfortable situations during your trip. Book transportation over the phone or in person. Ask to speak to a supervisor or person who specializes in travel for those with disabilities to help ensure that your needs are met.
Book travel with major companies throughout your trip. These are more likely to offer accessible amenities and services.
Consult with other friends who are in wheelchairs about travel. You can also consult organizations such as Mobility International, which have tips on how to prepare for your trip.
12. **Do physical activity most days.** Working out gives most people improved stamina and muscle tone, which can also improve your ability to be independent. Many exercise programs can be adapted for seated users. Alternatively, you may seek out exercise opportunities geared specifically toward people with disabilities, such as videos, classes or sports events.
Aim for some type of physical activity 5-6 days a week. Remember that activity can also energize you and improve any feelings of isolation you may feel.
Consult your doctor or physical therapist about how much physical activity you can do every week. For example, you might aim for ½ hour every day. You can break the time up into manageable pieces, such as 3-10 minute workouts. Remember to start slowly and gradually increase your activity level as you are able.
Choose activities that challenge your body and that you enjoy without pain. It may take a little trial and error to find what works and what you like. Consider activities such as wheelchair basketball, using a hand-bike, bowling, playing tennis or badminton. If you’re more adventurous, you can also try out skiing, surfing, rock climbing, and scuba diving.
13. **Make modifications as necessary.** Most activities can be modified to accommodate your needs. Consult with a fitness professional for modifications you can make to activities you enjoy. For example, you could try swimming with a floatation belt or resistance bands to build arm strength.
Make sure to listen to your body and stop if you have any pain. It’s normal to have some discomfort if you exercise, but if it turns into pain, stop what you’re doing.
14. **Give yourself a chance to rest.** Every individual needs at least 1 full day of rest each week. Because you’re getting more activity as a wheelchair user, you may want to give yourself 2 full days. Getting enough rest can help your body build muscle and recover.
Get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. A 20-30 minute nap can refresh you if you get tired during the day.
15. **Eat nutrient-rich meals.** Eating healthy foods is important for the health and wellbeing of any person. This is especially important for wheelchair users. Getting a variety of whole, nutrient-rich foods can help you maintain and even boost your health.
Select foods from the five food groups of fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Vary your choices at every meal to get as many nutrients as possible.
16. **Stay hydrated.** Drinking enough water throughout the day is important to maintaining your health. It can also keep you from feeling lethargic and getting headaches. Drink approximately 3 liters every day. Have more if you are active.
Stay away from sugary beverages like soda, juice cocktails, specialty coffees, and alcohol. Go for low-sugar choices such as tea, plain coffee, or sparkling water.
Keep in mind that eating fruits and vegetables also increases hydration since these foods are made mostly of water. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Independent-As-a-Wheelchair-User", "language": "en"} |
How to Get Rid of Flies Around Your Dog's Water and Food Bowls | Whether you feed your dog inside the house, or outside, you’ve probably experienced a problem with flies at some point. There are several methods to help eliminate flies from around your dog’s food and water bowls, and many of them can be made using items you probably already have in your home.
1. **Use a portion-control or timed feeding method.** Portion-control feeding means to measure out the exact amount of food your dog should have per meal, and only giving your dog that amount. If you’re feeding based on meals, you should feed your dog twice per day, about 8-12 hours apart. Timed feeding means that you put out your dog’s meal for a certain period of time, and then take the food away once that time is up, even if there’s some left over. Over time your dog will realize it has limited time to eat, and will consume its entire meal during that time. Either method will help ensure there isn’t left over dog food sitting in a bowl that may attract flies.
If you decide to use a method whereby your dog can graze on food throughout the day, you may wish to keep the food and waters bowls quite separate to prevent dry dog food from getting wet. The dampness of the food may attract flies.
2. **Clean up dog poop immediately.** Flies are attracted to dog poop like they are to dog food. Obviously the dog food has to stay, but there’s no reason why the dog poop has to be left in the yard for any period of time. Clean-up and dispose of dog waste immediately after your dog has done its business and you should start to see the number of flies in the area decrease.
3. **Remove any fly breeding areas.** Flies breed in moist or semi-liquid areas where they have access to vegetable or animal waste, including garbage, feces, compost piles and more. It only takes a maggot about 2-3 weeks to become a fly, and once hatched, flies tend to stick close to where they were born. Therefore cleaning up any breeding areas, and keeping them clean, will help ensure no new flies are born in the area.
For dogs that are primarily outdoors, such as working dogs, another possibly breeding place for flies is the dog itself. Keeping your dog clean and dry, and making sure any open wounds are taken care of immediately, will also help remove possible fly breeding areas.
4. **Fix screens in your windows and doors.** Most flies that you find inside your house got there because they found an opening somewhere - such as a rip in a screen. The best way to keep flies out of the house is to make sure they don’t have a way to get inside. Fixing or replacing screens with holes or rips in them is a great start.
When entering and exiting your home, be sure to open and close doors quickly to prevent any flies from getting inside. It is also a good idea not to prop doors open if at all possible, as that would create an open invitation to any flies, and other insects, to go right in.
5. **Hang up a ziplock bag with water.** Any decent-sized ziplock, or medium, clear plastic bag will do. Fill it halfway with water. Tie or zip the bag closed so that most, if not all, the air is removed. Hang the bag near your dog’s food and water bowls.The water in the plastic bag refracts light and, based on the way a fly’s eyes work, this refracted light causes confusion and the fly tends to leave the area.
Hang as many of these around the house, and outside, as you’d like. They should stop the flies from hanging around almost immediately.
6. **Repel flies with lavender oil.** Obtain a sponge or a small cloth. Dip the sponge or cloth into undiluted lavender oil - approximately ½-1 cup - and allow the sponge or cloth to soak up the oil. Then place the sponge or cloth into a tin can with a lid and set it aside for a day. After a day has gone by, remove the lid from the can and place the open can near your dog’s food and water bowls, out of their reach. You will need to replenish the lavender oil periodically as it looses its intensity.
Do not allow undiluted lavender oil to come into contact with bare skin.
Alternatively, you can use citronella, eucalyptus, pennyroyal, peppermint or lemongrass oil instead of lavender, but these oils must be diluted with water or alcohol at a ratio of 1:3.
7. **Repel flies with cloves and lemon.** Cut 2 lemons into halves. Poke 6-12 cloves into each lemon section. Make sure the bud of the clove is facing up, out of the lemon. Place the lemon sections near your dog’s food and water bowls, out of their reach of course.
If you do not have lemons, or would prefer not to use them, you can place the cloves, by themselves, in a cheesecloth or muslin bag and place the bag near the dog’s bowls. This is just as effective, just not as pretty!
8. **Spray lemongrass water.** Combine 10-12 drops of lemongrass oil with ¼ cup of hot water into a spray bottle. Shake, then spray the water around areas frequented by flies, such as doors and windows. You can spray around the area where you feed your dog, but don’t spray directly on their bowls, or any surface they might lick.
Lemongrass water can also be used like an instant fly spray, and sprayed directly at a fly when you see one.
If you don’t want to spend the money to buy lemongrass oil, which can be expensive, use plain dish soap instead. It won’t have the same nice smell, but it’s just as effective at repelling the flies.
9. **Grow herbs and flowers that flies don’t like.** Basil, lavender, bay leaves, tansy, mint, rue, wormwood and marigolds are not favourites of flies. Plant these herbs and flowers outside your home, near to where your dog’s food and water bowls are, to help repel flies. You can also plant them in pots to keep indoors near your dog’s bowls.
10. **Lay out cucumber slices.** Place cucumber slices (inside or outside) near your dog’s food and water bowls. Since you don’t want to replace the cucumbers several times a day as your dog eats them, place the slices somewhere your dog can’t get to them!
11. **Make your own flypaper strips.** Instead of using store-bought, commercially-made flypaper, make your own using ingredients that aren’t poisonous. Use any type of paper cut into 2” strips of any length. Punch a hole in one end of the strip to put string through for hanging. Combine ½ cup of corn syrup and ¼ cup of sugar to make a sticky mixture. Apply the mixture to both sides of each paper strip. Hang the strips near your dog’s food and water bowls (high enough so the dog cannot grab them). Replace the strips when they have several dead flies on them.
12. **Trap fruit flies with apple cider vinegar.** Pour apple cider vinegar into a bowl, cup, glass, etc. Place plastic wrap over the top of the bowl, cup, glass, etc., and attach it using an elastic. Make sure the plastic is pulled tight over the opening, like the surface of a drum. Using a toothpick, stab a bunch of holes into the plastic wrap. Place the whole contraption near your dog’s food and water bowls, but not in a location where the dog can get to it. Empty and refill as often as needed.
An alternative to apple cider vinegar is wine. Wine can be used in the exact same fashion to attract and kill flies. You can also add dish soap to the wine to help ensure the flies cannot escape. Of course, you’d have to waste wine in order to do this, so your problem would probably have to be rather severe to use this method!
13. **Trap flies with honey or jam.** Cut an individual-sized pop/soda/juice bottle in half, making the bottom half larger than the top half. Fill half the bottom half with water and a put in a couple drops of dish soap. Place the top half of the bottle into the bottom half, inverted (i.e. the opening of the bottle goes towards the water, without the cap on). Spread honey or jam near the mouth of the bottle that’s facing the water. Place the whole contraption near your dog’s food and water bowls - but still out of their reach (as it’ll probably attract dogs as well as flies!).
14. **Buy and install a bug zapper.** A bug zapper is designed more for outdoor use than indoor use and requires an electrical outlet. The zapper emits a light that attracts many insects and when they get close enough zaps them with an electrical discharge that kills them.
Note that flies, in general, are not attracted to light and a bug zapper may not be as effective on them as other methods. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Flies-Around-Your-Dog%27s-Water-and-Food-Bowls", "language": "en"} |
How to Heal a Tanning Bed Burn | Burns from tanning beds are similar to burns from the sun, except you may get burned in spots the sun usually doesn't reach. If you spend too much time in the bed and end up with stinging, red skin, you'll need to give your skin some extra pampering to cool it down and ease the pain. For a quicker recovery, you may want to avoid certain activities and eat foods that directly benefit your skin. Once the burn is healed, you can enjoy your golden glow without the irksome side effects!
1. **Stand under cool water in the shower for 10 to 20 minutes.** If you've just gotten out of the tanning bed, it may take a few minutes or hours to realize you've spent too long in there. As soon as you feel your skin throbbing or notice any redness, hop in the shower and let cool water run over your body for 10 to 20 minutes.
Use low water pressure because too much can be painful on burned skin.
Don't use ice-cold water—a little below room temperature is ideal. Water that's too cold can shock your skin.
Take a cool shower every few hours for pain relief.
If you don't have access to a shower or if you're short on time, wet a washcloth with cool water and lay it over the most burned areas.
2. **Pour full-fat or whole milk into cool bath water to ease swelling.** Run a cool bath (room temperature to cold) and add 2 cups (470 mL) of full-fat or whole milk. Stir the water and milk around with your hand or foot until it looks cloudy. Hop in and relax for 20 to 30 minutes. As a plus, your skin will feel silky smooth!
The vitamin A and D in milk can help soothe the swelling and redness.
As an alternative, use goat's milk or buttermilk for an extra-creamy soak.
3. **Apply aloe vera gel all over your body or to the affected areas.** Use at least a quarter-sized amount of aloe vera gel on each part of your body that's burned. Be gentle when you rub it in because too much pressure can irritate your skin. It'll leave your skin feeling cool and tingly.
You can buy aloe vera gel at any drugstore or extract it from the aloe barbadensis plant if you have one.
Aloe vera gel works on burns because it has anti-inflammatory properties, promotes blood circulation to the area, and prevents bacteria.
Avoid aloe vera products or lotions that have "caine" in the name or on the label (like benzocaine or lidocaine). These numbing agents can irritate your skin and may cause allergic reactions.
4. **Apply a lotion containing vitamin E or vitamin E oil to treat peeling skin.** If your skin is peeling, don't be frugal with vitamin E lotion or oil. Slather it on after getting out of the shower or bathtub and patting your skin dry. You can buy vitamin E oil at any drugstore or beauty supply store.
Look for lotions at the drugstore that advertise vitamin E on the front or have it listed in the top 5 ingredients on the back of the bottle so you know there's a lot of vitamin E in it.
Lotions containing vitamin E can decrease redness and swelling caused by the burn.
5. **Slather cold oatmeal onto your skin to relieve itching and stinging.** Combine 2 cups (256 grams) of dry oats with 3 cups (710 mL) of water and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir it every minute or so once it starts steaming. When the oats have absorbed most of the water, remove it from the stove and wait 30 minutes to 1 hour for the mixture to cool completely. Scoop the mixture into your palm and slather it onto your skin. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes and then hop in the shower to rinse it off.
If you're worried about oats clogging your shower drain, wet a kitchen towel with cool water and gently wipe the oats off your skin. Then hop in the shower.
You may want to put a towel down on the floor so you don't make too much of a mess when you're applying it.
You can also buy pre-made packets of colloidal oatmeal to pour into your bathwater.
Oats contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal dry, itchy, or swollen skin faster.
6. **Take an over-the-counter painkiller to relieve swelling and pain.** Take 1 to 2 tablets of aspirin or ibuprofen so you can go about your day a little more comfortably. If you're taking prescription medication or other NSAIDs, talk to your doctor before you take any over-the-counter painkiller.
Aspirin is only recommended for adults over 18 because it can cause a potentially fatal condition called Reye's syndrome in teens and children. Children and teens ages 6 to 18 can take acetaminophen instead.
Don't take ibuprofen if you have ever had a stomach ulcer, liver disease, or heart failure because it can worsen these conditions.
7. **Stay out of the sun as much as possible or wear sunscreen as needed.** Stay indoors as much as you can until the burn has healed—the last thing your skin needs is more sunlight! If you can't avoid going out in the sun, be sure to wear SPF 15 or higher. Use a quarter-sized amount of sunscreen on each exposed area (like your arms, neck, chest, and legs) 15 minutes before leaving the house.
For the most protection, use a sunscreen that shields your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
It's important to apply it 15 minutes before going out in the sun so the lotion has time to sink into your skin.
8. **Wear loose, opaque clothing to protect your skin from the sun.** Hold your clothing up to a light to see how tightly woven or opaque it is. If you can see the light coming through it, it won't offer you much protection against the sun's UV rays.
Avoid wearing wool clothing or anything made from synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, spandex, and rayon because these may irritate your skin.
9. **Avoid sweating until your sunburn has healed completely.** Skip going for a run or going to the gym until you don't notice any redness, inflammation, or stinging. If you need some exercise endorphins, go for an easy walk in the shade or on the treadmill.
The salt in sweat can irritate your skin and clog the pores on and around the burned area, causing blisters and prolonging the healing time.
If it hurts to move your limbs at all, take a few days off from your workout routine. Pulling and stretching the skin not only hurts, but it'll prolong the healing process.
10. **Resist the urge to pick at blisters or peeling skin.** If you have blisters from your burn, leave them alone. Blisters form natural cushions that help your skin heal, so popping or picking at them can delay the healing process or even put you at risk of an infection. Similarly, it's best not to mess with any skin that's peeling on its own.If you like, you can put a light moisturizer, such as 100% aloe gel, on the blisters. Just avoid using anything too heavy, like petroleum jelly, since this will trap sweat and heat against your skin.
11. **Stay hydrated to help your skin repair itself.** Hydration speeds up the healing process, so aim to drink at least 11 cups (2,600 mL) a day if you're a woman and 15 cups (3,500 mL) if you're a man. Limit or avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages like coffee, black tea, spirits, wine, and beer because these dehydrate your body.
You may be dehydrated if you have a dry mouth or dry skin, or if you feel dizzy and tired.
Another way to find your ideal intake is to divide your weight in pounds by 2. That number is how many ounces you should drink. For instance, if you weigh 140 pounds (64 kg), you should drink 70 fluid ounces (2,100 mL) of water per day.
12. **Drink 3 to 5 cups of green tea a day to ease inflammation.** Place a bag of green tea in 8 fluid ounces (240 mL) of boiling or near-boiling water and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the bag and sip on the tea 3 to 5 times a day.
You can also soak a small washcloth in cooled green tea and apply it to your skin to reduce the stinging sensation of a sunburn.
Green tea also contains polyphenols that can help stop the progression of skin cancer.
Green tea contains 30 to 50 mg of caffeine per bag. If you're sensitive to caffeine, drink decaf green tea instead.
13. **Get 400 to 800 IU (10 to 20 mcg) of vitamin D every day.** Make an effort to eat foods rich in vitamin D every day for its anti-inflammatory and skin-repairing properties. Fatty fish (tuna, mackerel, salmon), beef liver, cod liver oil, cheese, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified milks and cereals are all great sources of vitamin D.
For instance, a 3.5-oz (99 g) serving of salmon contains about 400 IU of vitamin D.
If allergies or dietary restrictions prevent you from getting enough vitamin D from food, talk to your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement.
14. **Eat orange foods for a boost of skin-loving beta carotene and vitamin C.** Stock up on orange foods at the grocery store and try to eat something orange at every meal. Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, mango, cantaloupe, and papaya can help speed up the healing time and make your skin more resistant to UV rays.
The daily recommended amount of beta carotene is 18,000 IU per day.
Just 1 cup (128 g) of chopped raw carrots contains 10,605 IU.
Note that eating too much beta carotene can cause your palms to take on a yellow hue, so don't go too crazy with the orange foods!
15. **Eat 2 to 3 servings of fruits rich in lycopene to lessen skin damage.** Have red and pink fruits like watermelon, grapefruit, papaya, or sun-dried tomatoes often if you tan regularly and are worried about long-term skin damage. Lycopene isn't necessary to eat every day, but aim to get 8 to 21 mg to heal your burn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage.
Lycopene has also been shown to protect against certain types of cancer.
It's easy to get a good dose of lycopene. For instance, just half of a grapefruit contains 17 mg of lycopene and a 3.5-oz (100 g) serving of sun-dried tomatoes contains 45.9 mg.
16. **Treat yourself to 1 to 2 oz (28 to 56 g) of dark chocolate every day.** Dark chocolate contains flavanols that can protect your skin from UV rays and hydrate your skin. A serving about the size of a match-box is the perfect amount to enjoy as a snack or dessert.
Choose a variety with at least 70% cocoa for the most benefits. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-a-Tanning-Bed-Burn", "language": "en"} |
How to Build a Skateboard | Whether you want build a whole skateboard using a variety of brands or just need to replace a certain part, you can easily build your skateboard with a few tools, such as an allen wrench, socket wrench, or skateboard multitool. A skateboard should have a deck with grip tape, trucks, wheels, and bearings. It is relatively simple to customize your regular board, longboard, or penny board.
1. **Find a suitable workspace.** Use a large, flat workspace where you can assemble your skateboard. You will be dealing with a lot of small parts like nuts, bolts, and washers.
A large work table or open space on the floor works well. Just make sure that you have enough room to lay out all your parts and tools so you can easily find what you need.
Keep your hardware in the original boxes or packaging until you need a particular piece to prevent losing anything.
If you don't want to build your own board from absolute scratch, try buying a blank board from a local shop you can then implement your own design on.
2. **Assemble the proper tools.** You can use a regular set of tools, including a screwdriver, socket wrench, and Allen wrench/hex key. The easiest method is to use a multitool made for skateboards which include a variable size socket wrench, screwdriver, ratchet system, and Allen wrench.
You will also need a razor blade to cut your grip tape, and a file.
Some skateboard tools come with a razor and a file. If you don’t have one that does, use a straight edge razor or box cutter, and a metal file or sandpaper.
Altogether, the deck will probably cost around $10, but the price of all the materials for the skateboard will be more around $100.
3. **Get your deck and grip tape.** The deck is the curved wood (sometimes plastic or fiberglass) part of your board that you stand on. The grip tape is the black/gray (sometimes other colored) material that goes on top of your deck, to help you maneuver your board without slipping.
There are many brands and types of both decks and grip tapes. Some decks come with the grip tape already applied, if your deck doesn’t you will have to apply it yourself.
Decks come in different widths and lengths. Most street skate decks are around 7.5” while park decks are around 8.5”. Decide if you plan on using your board more on the street or in a park. Then consider your stature. Shorter skaters with smaller feet don’t need as wide of a deck, while taller skaters could benefit from the extra room.
Some grip tapes are less grippy than others. Grip tape is like sandpaper and made of different grains. If you are new to skating, you may want a medium grip and coarseness so that your feet can move easily without slipping.
4. **Get your trucks, wheels, and bearings.** Like decks and grip tape, you have plenty of options when it comes to your trucks, wheels, and bearings. The size, width, and height of these components will differ for everyone’s preferences.
A good rule of thumb for trucks is to get ones that fit your board size. You don’t want trucks that are too wide for your board, or vice versa.
Wheels are typically made of polyurethane that allow you to grip, slide, and move fast. There are different options for the hardness of the wheel as well as the size. Cruising wheels, like the ones for longboards, are the biggest and softest. Small, harder wheels are better for street skating and tricks at the park as they allow for sliding. Then there are wheels that fit in between for versatile skating. Wheel sizes typically range between 49-75mm. Street wheels are typically around 50-55mm. Vert wheels are closer to 55-60mm, and longboard wheels are about 64-75mm.
Inside each wheel is a groove where the bearings go. The bearings allow the wheels to spin around the metal axle, which is fixed on a truck. Different bearings will also affect how fast and far you can go. The most common bearing size is the “608”. These bearings fit most wheels as the industry standard. Bearings come in steel and ceramic options. Ceramic bearings typically improve the performance of your board and movement but are more expensive. If you’re new to skateboarding, there are plenty of steel bearings that will be more than sufficient.
Note that trucks are often sold in singles. If you are purchasing trucks online, make sure you are getting a pair.
5. **Lay your deck down on a flat surface.** Putting grip tape on your deck isn’t very hard, but can take some practice to get it looking great. Start with your deck laying on a flat surface, right-side up.
The nose and tail of your board should be pointing up with the flat part of your board resting on the surface.
Your board may not lay completely flat due to its design.
A good type of wood for your skateboard is hard Maple, because it's thin and durable.
6. **Remove the backing of the grip tape.** Your grip tape will come in a rectangular sheet that is longer and wider than your board. Lay it over the nose and tail of your board before peeling to make sure it covers the whole board. Then, peel off the back portion revealing the adhesive side.
Be careful to touch as little of the grip tape as possible once you’ve peeled the paper away so you don’t accidentally get the tape stuck to anything and ruin it.
Peel all of the back paper off at once.
7. **Place your grip tape down on your deck.** Pinching the-the ends of tape between your forefinger and thumb, pull the tape taught. Find the nose and tail of your board with your middle fingers. You won’t be able to see the ends with the tape hovering over. Then, find the edge of your board and line the length of the grip tape along it so you can lay the tape down straight.
8. **Lay the tape down starting at the center of both the nose and tip, letting the tape fall naturally onto the top of your deck.** Once you have the tape placed on the top of the deck, take your palms and smooth out the grip tape. Make sure to press down hard and remove any air bubbles. Start in the middle of your board and move outwards towards the ends.
It’s normal to have excess grip tape around your deck. Because your tape is a rectangle, and your board is more of an oval, you’ll have to remove the extra tape.
9. **Take your file and place it on the edge of your board, once your grip tape is laid down.** This will create an outline of the deck under the grip tape.
If you don’t have a file, use the edge of your Allen wrench.
10. **Cut off excess tape.** Grab a straight razor or box cutter to cut away any extra grip tape. Start in the center of your deck and cut a small incision that’s perpendicular to your board. This incision will make it easier to cut away extra grip tape. Then cut around the entire circumference of your deck.
The easiest way to get a smooth cut is to angle the razor slightly toward the top edge of the board, hold the outer portion of the tape and slide the razor toward you.
Be very careful when doing this as the razor is very sharp and facing you.
Take your time and move slowly.
11. **Sand the grip tape edges.** Take a portion of the tape that you cut away and fold it over on itself so the sticky part is on the inside. Then, like with sandpaper, run the tape around the edges to sand the edge of the tape down.
Sanding your grip tape helps to prevent it from peeling up.
12. **Insert your screws.** Take your screwdriver or Allen wrench and punch holes through your grip tape. Hold your deck upright and locate the holes on the bottom of your board. Take your screwdriver and punch holes so that you can see where to place your screws. Then, insert your screws down through the top of your board.
Some sets of trucks come with the proper size screws to attach the trucks to the board. Most of the time, however, you will have to purchase screws and nuts separately. Some sets will have two screws which are a different color. Use these screws to differentiate between the tip and tail of your board.
When punching holes, keep the grip tape in place by holding it down with two fingers around the the hole.
13. **Attach the trucks.** Now place the trucks onto your board. Hold the screws in place with one hand and align your trucks. The trucks attach to your deck at the baseplate. The baseplate is the flat square portion of your truck that has four holes for the screws. If placed correctly, the hanger, the “T” shaped part of your trucks will be facing down.
Take the nut that came with your screw and screw it on over the baseplate with your hand until you can’t tighten it anymore. Then use your socket wrench to tighten it further. Once your trucks are attached, hold the wrench in place over the bolt with one hand, and tighten the screws further with a screwdriver from the other side.
Make sure your trucks are facing outward. The front of your trucks is the flat part of the hanger. It usually has the logo of the brand stamped on it. You can also tell which way is forward by the bushings. The bushings are the colored rubber parts under the kingpin, the top nut of your trucks.
Both trucks should be facing outward. The flat sides should be facing away from each other with the bushing facing toward each other.
If your trucks don’t come with hardware, you can buy hardware packs specifically designed for skate trucks.
The heads of your screws should be flush with the grip tape when you are done, and you shouldn’t be able to jiggle the trucks at all.
14. **Insert your bearings.** Your bearings and wheels go on together. Remove the nut and washer from the axle of your truck first. Then grab a bearing. You’ll see a flat side and a ridged side on your bearings. You want the flat side facing out. Put one bearing on the axle, flat side facing up. Take your wheel and press it down over your bearing until you feel the bearing slide into the center of your wheel. Remove the wheel from your axle and slide a second bearing on. Repeat the process, flipping the wheel over.
Place your board on your flat surface and stand the board on its edge for leverage.
When putting the second bearing on, face your wheel out, with the graphics side exposed. This isn’t necessary, and some wheels may have graphics on both sides.
If you have a bearing press, you can attach the bearings to the wheels without using your trucks.
15. **Attach your wheels.** Place your washer down on top of your bearing, then add the nut. Screw the nut down as far as you can with your hands then grab your skate tool or wrench and continue to tighten the nut. If you have new wheels and bearings, tighten the nut down as far as you can. This will push the bearings down further into your wheel securing the bearing in place. Once everything is tightened all the way, loosen the nut a bit so the wheel can actually spin.
Loosen the nut a few turns and spin your wheel, making sure that it can spin sufficiently.
Grab the wheel with your fingers and pull on it. You should be able to feel and see it move or jiggle slightly.
16. **Make sure everything is tightened and tuned.** With everything in place, place your board on the ground stand on it. Rock back and forth slightly and even skate around a bit. Test the tightness of your trucks and see how well the wheels spin while riding.
If your trucks are too loose and the board feels wobbly, tighten each one. Grab your skate tool and rotate the nut on the kingpin clockwise about half a turn for each truck.
If your trucks are too tight and you have trouble turning or carving, loosen each one. Turn the nut of your kingpin counterclockwise.
Jiggle your trucks again to make sure each one is screwed in tightly to the deck.
Adjust the tightness of your wheels. If you aren’t rolling as well as you should or feel resistance you may need to tighten your wheels further.
17. **Finished.**
18. **Place your board on your flat surface.**
19. **Get a hair dryer and heat up the edges for 3 to 5 minutes.**
20. **Grab a razor blade and carefully insert it on a 45 degrees angle under the old grip tape.**
21. **Stand on the board for leverage, once the edge of grip tape is pulled up.**
22. **Peel it slowly, until you have removed the old grip tape.**
23. **Apply the new grip tape.** Your board is now ready. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Skateboard", "language": "en"} |
How to Tell if a Mouse Is Male or Female | All mice look pretty similar, so you might not know if you have a male or female. The process of determining sex is called sexing. There are two main methods of determining sex; both require a keen eye and gentle handling of mice. You can sex mice by looking at the anogenital distance, which is the distance between the mouse's genital area and anus. Another method for sexing young mice is to check to see if the nipples are visible. It's always best to know the sex of your mice so you can separate the males from the females and prevent unwanted pregnancies.
1. **Use 2 hands to gently lift the mouse.** Place your hands together to form a cup, and use both hands to scoop up the mouse. For bigger mice, you can lift them by placing 1 hand under the chest and using the other hand to support the hind legs.
Remember you are much bigger than the mouse and an untrained mouse will be frightened of you. Be gentle and calm when interacting with mice.
Alternatively, you can train your mouse to crawl into your hand. Use treats to coax them into your palm. However, if this is your first time, it may take a while before your mouse trusts you enough to eat off of your hand.
2. **Place the mouse on its back to view its genital area.** Take the mouse by the scruff of its neck and turn it on its back. If it doesn't seem comfortable, hold the mouse in your hand with its rear end facing you. Lift the base of the tail so that you can clearly see the genitals.
It's important to lift the mouse at the base of its tail and never to have all of its feet in the air. Have at least the mouse's two front legs touching a surface, such as a cage or your hand. If you hold the mouse by its tail and let it hang, you risk the chance of breaking its tail or even snapping its back. You don't want to harm the mouse or cause it any pain.
Pinkies, or newborn mice, can get cold very fast. Only handle them for brief periods of time. They are also extremely fragile so avoid lifting them by the tail.
3. **Look at the distances between the anus and the genitalia.** The anus is the opening directly under the tail. Depending on the age of the mouse, it can be quite obvious or too difficult to sex. Young mice, especially newborn pinkies that have no fur, are very difficult to sex and the anogenital distances between sexes can almost look the same, so don't feel silly if you sex them incorrectly. It just takes some practice!
It is helpful to compare multiple mice of the same age side-by-side until you are able to see a difference in distances.
4. **Determine the sex based on distance.** A female mouse has a genital area that is much closer to the anus. The vagina is usually within about ⁄4 inch (0.6 cm) on an adult mouse. Females have a vaginal orifice behind the urethra which may appear to look like a bump.
A male mouse has a genital area much farther away from the anus than a female mouse.
You can also look for testicles when you do this. Although mouse testicles are not as prominent as a dog’s, they do still appear as 2 elongated swellings in the groin region. The testicles will appear large in comparison to the mouse’s body, but the mouse may also draw them up during times of stress.
5. **Look for prominent nipples to identify a female.** Young female mice have nipples that are much more prominent than the nipples of a male. Position the mouse on its back to view its stomach. To do this, take the mouse by the scruff of its neck, and turn the mouse on its back in your hand. Nipples may be obscured by the fur on the mouse's stomach. Try to part the fur or feel the belly to see if you can spot the nipples. They may look like bald spots if the mouse is young.
It can be difficult to spot nipples on pinkies but with good lighting and an observant eye, you can spot nipples as early as three days after birth.
Be aware that male mice lack nipples entirely, so this is a good way to identify whether a mouse is male, too.
6. **Spot signs of pregnancy to identify an older female.** Pregnancy is usually an easy visual determination of sex, as the nipples will swell and drop, forming "saddlebags" around the hip area. However, not all mice will be as obvious, and for some, obese males may look just like pregnant females.
The nipples may also take on a pink, rosy appearance when a mouse is pregnant. This is known as “pinking up” and it is a common sign of pregnancy, but it can be hard to spot.
7. **Look for small bumps near the scrotum to identify a male.** Adult male mice have testicles that are pretty easy to see most of the time. However, you may have to be patient in order to get a look, because a male mouse can withdraw his testicles into his body. One way to get a good look is to wait for the mouse to eat while 'standing' on the rim of its food bowl. Most of the time his testicles will descend during this position. They look like small balls or pillows and are near the scrotum.
You could also try placing the mouse on a sheet of glass or in a glass cage. Offer the mouse some treats to keep it still and check for its testicles from the under the glass. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-a-Mouse-Is-Male-or-Female", "language": "en"} |
How to Play Pokémon GO | For years, Pokémon fans have fired up their Game Boys and Nintendo DS' to catch and train powerful teams of Pokémon. With Pokémon GO, the line between Pokémon and the world we live in is as thin as ever. With a few simple steps, you can learn how to be a successful Pokémon trainer, and, maybe one day, even catch 'em all.
1. **Go to the App Store.** Pokémon GO is available on the iPhone and Android. From the home screen of your phone, swipe your finger to the right and type "App Store" (or "Play Store", on an Android) into the search bar that appears. Tap the App Store icon to open the App Store.
2. **Search for the Pokémon GO app.** Tap on the button at the bottom of the screen and type "Pokémon GO" into the search bar. Tap to see a list of results pop up.
3. **Download the Pokémon GO app.** Find the Pokémon GO app in the results. Tap the button at the top-right corner of the results bar. You may be prompted to enter your Apple ID password. After doing this, you should see the app begin to download.
4. **Open the Pokémon GO app.** Press the home screen button and tap on the new Pokémon GO icon that will have appeared.
If you don't see the app on your home screen, swipe left until you see the Spotlight search bar appear where you can type "Pokémon GO" in and tap on the app that appears.
5. **Allow Pokémon GO to access your location.** Giving the app access to your location will allow you to make full use of the game's features.
6. **Enter your date of birth.** When you have done this, hit .
7. **Sign up for a Pokémon GO account.** You can do this one of two ways:
. If you have a Gmail account, you can choose this option to link your account to the game, allowing you to share data between the two accounts. Signing up with Gmail currently seems to be more stable than using the Pokémon Trainer Club.
This is a feature on Pokémon.com that seeks to create a dedicated community of Pokémon players who can communicate, battle, and trade Pokémon with one another. If you're interested in joining this community, this is a good option to choose.
8. **Design your trainer avatar.** After accepting the terms and conditions and an introduction from Professor Willow, you'll be taken to the picture of two avatars.
Tap your preferred presentation and you'll be taken to a screen where you can edit different physical features of your avatar.
Edit your features by tapping on the different sections of each and using the arrows to toggle between different looks.
Tap on the checkmark at the bottom-right corner of the screen when you are finished designing your avatar. You're ready to go!
9. **Check the sidebar for Pokémon.** If Pokémon are nearby, you'll see a gray sidebar on the bottom-right corner of your screen that displays the silhouettes of the Pokémon near you.
10. **Watch for rustling grass.** On your screen, look for a set of leaves moving around in the distance. When you see some, you are receiving an indication that there may be a Pokémon there.
11. **Walk to the rustling grass.** Yes, literally walk, with your feet, to where you see the rustling grass on the map! When you approach the spot, a Pokémon may appear on your screen.
12. **Tap on the Pokémon.** When you get close enough to a Pokémon, tap on it to enter the game's "capture" mode.
13. **Check the Pokémon's CP level.** A Pokémon's Combat Points, or CP level, is the number shown in the grey bar above its head, and it denotes their strength. A Pokémon with a low CP level will be easier to capture than a Pokémon with a high level.
14. **Use the right type of Pokéball.** There are different types of Pokéballs you can use to capture Pokémon, and they yield different levels of effectiveness. A Pokéball is the most basic and weakest kind of ball to use - it's also the kind of Pokéball you receive as you start the game.
You can stock up on Pokéballs at a PokéStop, which will be discussed more in this article.
You can also buy PokéBalls at the PokéShop.
15. **Wait for the right moment.** Look for the ring that sits inside the circle where the Pokémon is standing. It'll be red, orange, or green depending on how difficult the Pokémon is to capture. It'll also change in size; when this ring is at its smallest, the Pokémon is most vulnerable and your chances at capturing it are highest (but only if your Pokéball lands within the ring).
16. **When you're ready, swipe the Pokéball towards the Pokémon to capture it.** You'll throw a Pokéball at it. If you miss, or the Pokémon bursts out of the Pokéball, you can try again until it flees. If it runs away, don't fret - return to your map, and move on to your next attempt at finding and capturing a Pokémon!
17. **Master your throwing technique.** The single most important factor that affects your ability to successfully capture Pokémon is the technique you use to fling a Pokéball at it. To throw a Pokéball, simply use your finger to flick the Pokéball towards the Pokémon on the screen. To improve your throws, be sure to:
If you accidentally throw your Pokéball too far to the left or right, you'll miss the Pokémon.
A slower, shorter flick will cause you to throw the ball with less force. A quick, longer flick will cause the ball to fly faster and longer. Try to throw the ball with some force, but be sure not to overshoot the Pokémon during your throw!
. Battles in Augmented Reality require you to have greater throwing precision as you try to capture Pokémon. To have a better shot at catching them, turn off AR in the game's settings.
18. **Look for PokéStops on your map.** As you venture around the world, look for floating blue cubes on your map. These are PokéStops, where you can acquire valuable gear for your journey as a Pokémon trainer.
19. **Walk towards the PokéStop.** As you approach it, it will change shape, turning into a medal shaped like a Pokéball. This signals that you are close enough to use the PokéStop.
20. **Tap on the PokéStop.** This will bring up a close-up view of the PokéStop.
21. **Spin the medal with your finger.** A number of items will appear around the medal.
22. **Tap on the items to add them to your pack.**
23. **Find another PokéStops that is blue.** After you use a PokéStop, it will turn purple, indicating that you've recently used it and it needs time to reset before you can collect more items from it. To collect more items, head to a PokéStop that appears on your map as blue.
24. **Reach level 5 as a trainer.** Gyms are places around the world where Pokémon trainers meet up to battle each other. To learn the different ways to level up your Pokémon trainer, check out the Strategy and Advanced Tips section.
25. **Locate gyms on your map.** Gyms are the largest objects that appear on your map. You can recognize them as tall pedestals surrounded by light.
Gyms are most likely to be found in prominent meeting places, so if you can't see one in your immediate vicinity, try zooming out on your map.
Gyms will be either yellow, blue or red, indicating the Pokémon team that currently has "control" over that gym.
26. **Walk over to the gym.** When you are close to it, tap on the gym to be led through an introduction dialogue with Professor Willow.
27. **Choose a team to battle with.** You will be asked to join either the Mystic, Valor, or Instinct team. Tap on your team of choice, noting that the team with the same color of the gym currently controls that gym.
28. **Select Pokémon to battle with.** You will be taken to a screen that displays the first Pokémon in your team. Select which Pokémon to choose by tapping the button at the bottom-right corner of your screen (with two Pokéballs colliding against each other) and tapping on the Pokémon you would like to battle with.
29. **Hit the GO!** button when you are ready to battle. Brace yourself!
30. **Tap on the enemy Pokémon to attack them.** This will lower the other Pokémon's CP. When one Pokémon's CP reaches 0, it will faint, and the next Pokémon in the pack will be sent to fight.
31. **Dodge the enemy's attacks by swiping left and right.** If the enemy has just sent an attack towards you, consider dodging it to save your CP instead of immediately attacking them back.
32. **Start out with Pikachu.** When you start out the game, you will be given a choice between Squirtle, Charmander, and Bulbasaur as your starter Pokémon. If you walk away from all three of these Pokémon and wait for them to reappear on your map near you, the fourth time, you will eventually see Pikachu appear along with them.
33. **Find the best PokéStops at cultural landmarks.** Not all PokéStops are created equal! PokéStops located at more central locations tend to yield better items. To find Pokéstops with serious plunder, check out locations such as:
Monuments
Well-known buildings
Parks
Museums
Graveyards
College Campuses
34. **Collect eggs to "hatch" your Pokémon.** At some Pokéstops, you'll be able to collect eggs. After walking a certain distance with an egg in your pack, it will hatch, adding a Pokémon to your team without you having to catch it.
35. **Level up your trainer.** As you journey through the world, you have opportunities to gain experience that will allow you to level up as a trainer. At level 5, you can access gyms where you can battle other trainers. As you level up, you will also begin to encounter rarer, more powerful Pokémon in the world and have access to better items at PokéStops. You gain different levels of experience for completing different tasks, and the amount of experience you gain increases once you become a more powerful trainer. Here are some things you can do to level up your trainer and the XP rewards you get from them at the beginning of the game:
100 XP – Pokémon Caught
500 XP – New Pokémon
10 XP – Curve Ball
10 XP – Nice Throw
50 XP – Great Throw
100 XP – Excellent Throw
50 XP – Checking in at a PokéStop
100 XP – Battling a Pokémon Trainer at a Gym
150 XP – Beating a Pokémon Trainer at a Gym
50 XP – Beat a Pokémon in training at a Gym
200 XP – Hatch a Pokémon
500 XP – Evolve a Pokémon
36. **Use special attacks during gym battles.** When you're battling another trainer, you can charge up a special attack by holding a long tap on the screen and letting it go when the bar is full. These attacks are more powerful than your Pokémon's regular combat moves.
This takes a long time to charge up, so it may not be possible during all gym battles.
37. **Battle Pokémon according to their types.** All Pokémon have types that are strong against certain other types and weak against others. When battling, try to match your Pokémon up against a Pokémon that will give yours an advantage. This chart shows you which Pokémon are stronger and weaker against others (the arrow points to the strongest types).
38. **Save your battery life.** Pokémon Go will devour your battery if you don't take measures to save it. To do this, tap the Pokéball icon at the bottom of your screen and then the "Settings" icon at the top-right. Tap on the "Battery Saver" option for a greatly-improved battery life. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Pok%C3%A9mon-GO", "language": "en"} |
How to Sleep when on Your Period | Every 28 days or so, you may have problems sleeping, also known as insomnia, due to your period. This is a common problem that can be caused by hormones, bodily changes, cramps, and increased body temperature. If you find yourself having trouble sleeping while on your period, try home remedies or dietary changes to relieve your symptoms and help you relax. Establishing a good bedtime routine may also be helpful.
1. **Determine changes in your sleep pattern.** If you suffer from sleeplessness during each of your periods, you can determine what specific symptoms keep you up each month. Since your period symptoms are what cause you to lose sleep, treating them will help you sleep better while on your period. In order to determine what is causing your insomnia, pay attention to the things that keep you up or wakes you up.
Notice if you have pain, if you are anxious, or if you are just generally restless. This can help you figure out which technique to use.
You may find it helpful to use an app to keep track of your sleeping patterns and other symptoms. Try apps like Period Calendar, Clue, or Glow.
2. **Exercise during your period, if you feel up to it.** One of the best ways to combat period symptoms is exercise. The release of endorphins may help reduce cramps, relieve additional pain, reduce anxiety, and help you sleep better. Aim for a 30-minute workout during the days leading up to your period and during the first few days of your period.
Yoga is a relaxing, low-impact form of exercise that may help relieve period symptoms.
Don’t work out too close to bedtime. Exercising can cause a spike in energy levels, so it will be counterproductive to do it too late in the day.
3. **Use heat to relieve cramps.** When your cramps are extremely bad or if you suffer from lower back pain during your period, heating the area may help your pain so you can sleep. It may also help reduce swelling and inflammation associated with period bloating, which may make it uncomfortable to sleep. Cover your pelvic area or lower back with a towel or cloth, then place a hot water bottle or heating pad on the area that hurts the most.
If you use a heating pad, do not leave it on high or apply it for more than 20 minutes at a time. It can burn your skin or cause irritation.
A warm bath or shower or a little time in a sauna may also relax you and relieve cramps.
4. **Try acupuncture.** Acupuncture, which involves a series of thin needles being inserted into strategic points on your body, helps relieve pain. It may help with cramping, tension, and lower back pain associated with your period, which may make it impossible to sleep.
Try scheduling an appointment with a trained acupuncturist later in the day so the pain-relieving effects will help you get to sleep easier.
5. **Increase your omega-3 fats.** If menstrual cramps are keeping you up at night, increase your intake of omega-3 fats during the day to help reduce your cramps at night. Omega-3 fats may help with inflammation and, since cramping is helped with decreased inflammation, it may help lessen this period symptom. Incorporate more foods with omega-3s, such as:
Nuts and seeds, such as flaxseeds, butternuts, walnuts, and chia seeds
Nut oils, such as walnut or flaxseed oil
Fish, such as salmon, whitefish, sardines, shad, and mackerel
Herbs and spices, such as oregano, cloves, basil, and marjoram
Vegetables, such as sprouted radish seeds, Chinese broccoli, and spinach
6. **Get more vitamin D** If anxiety or restlessness are common occurrences during your period, increase your intake of vitamin D. It also helps inflammation. The best way to get vitamin D is through skin exposure. Take 10 to 15 minutes of your day and expose your bare skin to sunlight, which will trigger natural vitamin D production in your body.
If you can't get enough through sun, try to eat more foods with vitamin D, such as cod liver oil, tuna, salmon, mackerel, cheese, yogurt, and milk. These can be extremely helpful during winter months when you get less natural sun exposure.
7. **Take supplements.** There are a number of supplements that can help you with your cramps as well as anxiety and restlessness associated with periods. Always check the dosing information and possible interactions with your doctor or gynecologist before starting a supplement regimen. Common supplements that are helpful for period symptoms include:
Magnesium. Deficiencies of this mineral may cause worse cramps, so increase your intake of magnesium in the 3 days before your period starts. Ask your doctor about taking supplements, or get dietary magnesium from green, leafy vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and fortified cereals.
Calcium. Like magnesium, deficiencies may cause more intense cramps. Take 500 to 1000 mg daily before your period starts to reduce cramping and overall period pain, which will help you sleep.
Vitamin C. Cramps can be improved by taking 1000 mg doses of vitamin C at a time.
8. **Use over-the-counter pain relievers.** If pain is keeping you up at night, try using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These may cause stomach irritation if taken too much or without food, so take them with a light snack, such as a banana, close to bed time. This will help ensure the pain relief will last through the night so you can sleep.
NSAIDs include medicines such as aspirin (Bayer), naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin).
Follow the dosage instructions on the bottle. The amount varies depending on the type of medication you use.
9. **Use herbal remedies.** There are some herbs that can be used to help treat the underlying causes of period symptoms, which may help you sleep better at night. These come in a variety of forms, including dried herbs and supplements. These herbs include:
Cramp bark, which may help relieve cramps. Make it into a tea, steeping 1 to 2 tsp. of dried cramp bark into a mug of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Start drinking these teas 2 to 3 days before your period starts to get the best effects.
Chasteberry, also known as vitex-agnus castus, which stabilizes your hormones. Take 20 to 40 mg tablets each day before breakfast. Consult your doctor before using this one if you are on birth control because it can have adverse effects.
Black cohosh, which may reduce cramping, tension, and other common period symptoms. Take 20 to 40 mg tablets twice a day.
Chamomile, which helps reduce anxiety and calms you down. Steep 1 to 2 tsp. of dried chamomile or a bagged chamomile tea in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.
10. **Practice proper sleep hygiene.** After you treat your period symptoms, there are some other ways that you can improve your sleep hygiene. “Sleep hygiene” refers to habits and behaviors that contribute to a good night’s sleep. Menstruation affects the quality of your sleep but you can counter the effects with good sleep hygiene. Good ways to improve your sleep hygiene are:
Using your bed only for bed activities, such as sleep and sexual activity, and avoiding watching TV and reading.
Avoiding caffeine after noon.
Eating only light, easily digestible food within 2 hours of going to bed, or avoiding food at bedtime all together.
Sticking to relaxing activities instead of stimulating activities, such as exercise, in the evening.
11. **Engage in relaxing activities before bed.** During your period, you may find yourself irritated or restless. Not properly unwinding or relaxing before bed can cause you to have insomnia, which is made worse by anxious feeling caused by your change in hormones. In the hour or 2 before bed, try to make yourself relax. Common ways to do this are:
Doing something you love that’s relaxing, such as reading a book, listening to music, or sitting outside.
Trying relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises.
Performing progressive muscle relaxation, which is a technique where you tense then relax every muscle in your body in order calm yourself and sleep better.
Using positive visualization, where you imagine your happy place in order to decrease anxiety and worry about the future.
Taking a hot shower to release tension and relax your muscles, which can also help cramping and bloating.
12. **Improve your sleep environment.** Having an uncomfortable bed or bedroom can cause insomnia, especially if you are already on edge from hormonal changes due to your period. Your body temperature may also increase due to these changes, so you might have to change your bedding during this time of the month. Make sure your comforter, blanket, and sheets are soft, comfortable, and provide enough heat or cool for you to sleep.
This will vary depending on the time of year, temperature control in your room, and stage of your period, so try different configurations to see what is best for you.
Try using a body pillow while you sleep to help with muscle pain. They help take tension off your muscles.
This applies to your bed clothing as well. Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.
13. **Learn about the hormones causing your symptoms.** Part of the reason you may be unable to sleep is hormones. During your menstrual cycle, your levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone fluctuate in specific ways and cause insomnia. This is especially true during the time right before your period.
Excessive sleeplessness during or right before your period may also be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a condition more severe than the premenstrual syndrome that many women suffer.
14. **Recognize period symptoms.** There are certain symptoms you may experience during your period that may cause sleeplessness. During your period, you may be bloated or experience cramping, which can aggravate you enough to keep you awake. You may also suffer from headaches, nausea, an upset stomach, and increased body heat.
Psychological symptoms of your period may include depression, anxiety, crying, and irritability, which may also cause you to have trouble sleeping.
15. **See your doctor if you can’t manage your symptoms at home.** If you find that you have many nights of sleeplessness or that it happens every period, see your doctor. They may be able to help you figure out if there is an underlying problem or figure out additional medical options that might help you sleep better while on your period.
You should also talk to your doctor about any medications that you take that might be causing insomnia or making your period symptoms worse. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Sleep-when-on-Your-Period", "language": "en"} |
How to Make a Caterpillar | A caterpillar is a cute, fuzzy creature that turns into a beautiful butterfly. Best of all, there are lots of ways to make them using supplies from around your home. Caterpillar crafts are a great, hands-on way to teach young children about them. While the children make their caterpillars, you can read to them about caterpillars, then hold a discussion afterwards.
1. **Cut an egg carton in half lengthwise with scissors or a serrated knife.** You will end up with two long rows of egg cups. Pick the one you want and set the other one aside. Be sure to tear off the lid and front flaps so that you have just the strip.
You can use any size egg carton you want. The more eggs it holds, the longer your caterpillar will be!
A cardboard egg carton will work better than the foam kind because it is easier to paint.
2. **Paint the outside of the carton with acrylic, poster, or tempera paint.** Green is the most popular caterpillar color, but you can make yours any color you want. To make a "very hungry caterpillar," paint the first cup red for the head, then paint the rest green. Let the paint dry before moving on.
You can paint the inside of the carton, but you need to let the outside dry first.
3. **Poke two holes on top of the first cup for the antenna.** The holes need to be right next to the narrow edge. Use a pen, pencil, or skewer to poke the holes. It would be a good idea to ask an adult to help you with this step.
4. **Poke a pipe cleaner up through the holes.** Turn the carton so that you can see the inside. Stick each end of a pipe cleaner through one of the holes. Flip the carton over and tug on both ends of the pipe cleaner so that it's even.
The pipe cleaner can be any color. Yellow will work the best, but you can use black too!
5. **Secure, trim, and shape the antenna.** Twist the antenna together once or twice, then spread them open in a V. Use scissors to cut the antenna shorter, then glue a mini pompom to the top of each one. You can use any color of pompom you want. Red would work well with yellow pipe cleaners!
Hot glue will work the best, but you can use tacky glue as well. Hold the pompoms in place for about 30 seconds to help them stick.
If you don't have pompoms, curl the ends of the antenna with a pencil instead.
6. **Add a face.** Glue some googly eyes to the front of the first cup, just below the antenna. Hold them down for about 30 seconds. This will help them stick better. Next, use a marker to draw on a mouth.
If you can't find googly eyes, you can draw them on instead.
For a girly caterpillar, add rosy cheeks and lashes.
For a silly caterpillar, glue a small, red pompom to the middle of the face for the nose.
7. **Decorate the caterpillar.** Your caterpillar is done, but you can make it look more colorful and interesting by adding some details. Here are some ideas:
Draw on the caterpillar with glitter glue.
Paint some polka dots or stripes onto the caterpillar.
Stick foam stickers onto the caterpillar.
Add a bow to the top of the head.
8. **Gather your pompoms.** They are all the same color, or you can use different colors. You can have them all be the same size, or you can use one large pompom for the head. To make a "very hungry caterpillar," try different shades of green for the body and a large red pompom for the head.
For a regular caterpillar, use 7 pompoms.
For a puppet caterpillar, use 11 pompoms.
9. **Glue the pompoms together to make a rope.** You can glue the pompoms together with hot glue or glue dots. You can also use fabric glue or tacky glue, but you will need to wait for the glue to dry.
An older child thread a needle with embroidery thread, then string the pom poms onto the thread. Be sure to knot the thread securely at both ends.
10. **Glue googly eyes onto the first pompom.** You can use hot glue, tacky glue, or fabric glue. If you are using tacky glue, hold the eyes in place for about 30 seconds to help them stick. Let the glue dry before moving on.
11. **Add some antenna.** Cut two short pieces of pipe cleaner. Glue each piece to the top of the caterpillar's head. You can have them stick straight up, or make them angle outward like a V. Hot glue will work the best, but you can use fabric glue or tacky glue. Let the glue dry before moving on.
An older child can thread a needle, then pull two short pieces of colored embroidery thread up through the bottom of the caterpillar's head.
12. **Turn the caterpillar into a puppet, if desired.** Cut two long pieces of fishing line. Tie one string to the third pompom and the other string to the seventh pompom. Next, tie both strings to a short stick or dowel. Tilt the stick up and down, like a seesaw, to make the caterpillar move.
13. **Get a colorful knee sock.** It can be any color or pattern you want, but make sure that it's clean. Striped socks work the best for this! You can also use a crew sock instead for a smaller caterpillar. Don't use an ankle sock, though. It won't be long enough.
Consider using a soft, fuzzy sock for a fluffy caterpillar.
14. **Stuff the sock with polyester stuffing.** If you can't find any, you can use cotton balls or scraps of yarn. You can also use six 3-inch (7.62-centimeter) Styrofoam balls. If you are using Styrofoam balls, you may not fit all of them into the sock. Don't try to cram them in.
15. **Tie the end of the sock with a rubber band or piece of yarn.** If the sock was very long, you may still have some leftover. Cut the extra sock off so that you have a 2-inch (5.08-centimeter) stub.
If you are using Styrofoam balls, leave enough space in the sock so that the balls can wiggle.
16. **Tie more rubber bands around the sock to create segments.** You can also use pieces of colorful yarn instead. Plan on having about six segments. If you used Styrofoam balls, tie a rubber band/piece of yarn between each ball.
17. **Glue googly eyes to the toe part of the sock.** Turn the sock caterpillar so that the toe part is facing you. Glue two googly eyes on top, right above the seam. Hot glue or tacky glue will work the best. You can also use a hot glue with an adult's help.
18. **Add a face.** You can use the seam on the toe part as a mouth. You can also draw your own mouth with a marker. If you want to, you can add some more details, such as rosy cheeks or eyelashes. For a silly caterpillar, glue a small pompom onto the face for the nose.
For a rustic touch, use buttons instead of googly eyes. You can sew or glue them on.
19. **Tie a pipe cleaner around the neck for the antenna.** The neck is the first joint behind the head. Find the middle of a pipe cleaner, then place it under the caterpillar. Wrap both ends around the neck, then twist them together once or twice.
20. **Shape the antenna.** Pull the antenna apart to make a V-shape. Curl each end downward with a pencil. You can also cut the antenna shorter and hot glue a mini pompom to the tips.
21. **Decorate the caterpillar.** You don't have to do this if you don't want to. Decorating the caterpillar will give it character and make it look more interesting. Here are some ideas:
Draw designs with markers or puffy paint.
Sew or glue buttons onto the caterpillar to make spots.
Make a small bow out of ribbon and glue it onto the caterpillar's head.
Glue a pompom onto the tail-end to help hide the stub.
22. **Cut an empty toilet paper roll into four rings.** If you don't have any toilet paper rolls, cut a paper towel roll in half, and use that instead. If you don't have any rolls at all, do the following:
Cut three 1½-inch (3.81-centimeter) wide strips out of green paper.
Cut a 1½-inch (3.81-centimeter) wide strips out of red paper.
Roll each strip into a ring.
Secure each with a staple. Do not link or connect the rings.
23. **Paint the inside and outside of each ring.** You can use acrylic, poster, or tempera paint for this. To make a "very hungry caterpillar," you will need three green rings and one red ring.
If you made the rings out of green paper, skip this step.
24. **Glue or staple the rings together side by side.** Glue all of the rings together in a row with the side/curved edges touching. Glue the red ring to the end of the row to make the head. You will have something that looks like this: oooo.
Keep the rings straight. If they are crooked, the caterpillar won't stand.
25. **Add some eyes.** You can draw the eyes one with a black marker, or you can glue on a pair of googly eyes. To make a "very hungry caterpillar, do the following:
Cut two small ovals out of yellow paper.
Cut two smaller ovals out of green paper.
Glue the green ovals onto the yellow ovals to make the pupils.
Glue the yellow ovals onto the caterpillar's head.
26. **Draw on a mouth, if desired.** Use a black marker to draw a simple smile in the middle of the face, just below the eyes.
27. **Cut and fold a pipe cleaner in half for the antenna.** Cut a pipe cleaner in half first. Set one of the halves aside for another project. Fold the remaining half into a V-shape.
For a "very hungry caterpillar," use a purple pipe cleaner.
28. **Glue the antenna to the caterpillar's neck.** Fill the space between the red ring and the first green ring with glue. Set the antenna into the glue, pointy-side-down. Hold it there until the glue dries. If you can't wait that long, use a hot glue gun instead.
29. **Let the caterpillar dry.** Once the caterpillar is dry, you can stand it up on its side. If it keeps falling over, place some double-sided tape on the bottom, then stand it back up again. The tape will stick to your desk, and keep the caterpillar steady. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Caterpillar", "language": "en"} |
How to Change an Address on Your Credit Report | Your credit report contains valuable information pertaining to your history of paying creditors. This is important to you, and you want to make sure that the information contained as part of your credit report is accurate. If you move, you may need to update your address. Additionally, you may note inaccuracies in the address that is reported, and you may need to correct that.
1. **Notify your creditors first of your move.** Two of the three major credit reporting agencies, Equifax and Experian, both say that when you move, you need to notify your creditors, not the credit reporting agency. The agencies will get notice of any address change through the records of the individual creditors.
It is important that you notify all your creditors and all companies you do business with. If you move, but neglect to notify creditors, then bills and notices may be delayed, and your payments may be late as a result.
If you want to be abundantly cautious and send a notice of address change to Equifax or Experian, you may do so, even though they do not require such a notice. You do not need to be concerned with any particular “proof” of the new address.
2. **Notify TransUnion directly of your move.** To change your address with TransUnion, the third major credit reporting agency, TransUnion asks that you notify them directly. You will need to send a written request to update your address, along with two forms of proof of the new address. The proof may be in the form of a photocopy of:
Drivers license
State ID card
Bank or credit union statement
Cancelled check
Government-issued ID card
Signed letter from homeless shelter
Stamped post office box receipt
Utility bills (water, gas, electric, or telephone)
3. **Mail documentation to the appropriate office.** If you are notifying TransUnion of your address change, or if you wish to send a notice to Equifax or Experian, send your letter, with any supporting documentation, to the appropriate address.
Your letter can be very simple. You may say something like, “I am writing to notify you that as of July 1, 2016, I have moved to a new address. The new address is _____. I am enclosing a copy of my new driver’s license and a utility bill that show this new address.”
Send correspondence for TransUnion to TransUnion, LLC, Consumer Disclosure Center, P.O. Box 1000, Chester, PA 19016.
Send correspondence for Equifax to Equifax Information Services, LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374.
Send correspondence for Experian to Experian, P.O. Box 2002, Allen, TX 75013.
4. **Determine that a valid reason for dispute exists.** A change of address due to a move is not a matter for disputing your credit report. A dispute is the means for correcting something that is blatantly incorrect. This may include either an address that you never used, or something as simple as a typographical error.
For example, if your correct address is 123 Main Street, but it appears on your credit report as “124 Main Street,” you should treat this as disputing an error.
5. **Dispute your address with Experian either online or by mail.** If you wish to notify Experian of an error in your address, you can do so either by mail or online. Making the report online will usually lead to faster service.
You can make online corrections at http://www.experian.com/disputes/how-to-dispute.html. You will see a link to “Start a New Dispute Online,” and then follow the steps from there to report the correct address.
You can notify Experian by mail of any disputed information by writing to Experian’s National Consumer Assistance Center, P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013. In your letter, include a clear statement that your address on your credit report is incorrect. Provide the information that currently appears, and then state what you believe the correct information should show. If you have supporting documentation, like a utility bill or driver’s license, you should include copies.
6. **Notify Equifax of an incorrect address through its dispute process.** For Equifax, you can begin the dispute process online, or you may submit a report by mail. Reporting incorrect information online is usually going to produce faster results.
To report corrections online, begin at the Equifax Online Dispute page at https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-dispute/.
To report incorrect information by mail, you may write to Equifax Information Services, LLC, P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374.
7. **Report to TransUnion for incorrect address information.** You may dispute incorrect information to TransUnion either by mail or through its online process. The online reporting will lead to faster results.
To report online, visit the screen to dispute an error online, at https://dispute.transunion.com/dp/dispute/landingPage.jsp. This screen will prompt you for a userid and password. If you have not used this system before, you will need to create an account. After that, you will be able to enter the details of your dispute. Tell them about the incorrect address, and then provide the new information. You can use the same account to check on the status of your dispute later on.
To report an incorrect address by mail, for TransUnion you will treat it just the same as an address change. Send a letter requesting the correction, along with two forms of proof, such as an ID or utility bill, to to TransUnion, LLC, Consumer Disclosure Center, P.O. Box 1000, Chester, PA 19016.
8. **Recognize a possibly fraudulent address.** Something as simple as an incorrect address is not likely to rise to the level of fraud. But if you notice an incorrect address, that never has been connected to you, together with accounts that you do not recognize, that could be an indication that someone has been trying to steal your credit identity.
9. **Begin by contacting any one of the three major credit reporting companies.** If you are concerned that you may be the victim of credit fraud, you only need to contact one of the three credit reporting companies, Experian, TransUnion or Equifax. That company will accept your report and will notify the other two companies.
You can contact TransUnion at 800-680-7289.
You can contact Experian at 888-397-3742.
You can contact Equifax at 888-766-0008.
10. **Submit an “Initial Fraud Alert” regarding your address.** Notify whichever company you choose to contact that you wish to place an “Initial Fraud Alert” on your account. This is a note that will be attached to your credit report. Any lending agencies or potential creditors who may be asked to lend you credit in the future will see that note and will be warned to verify your identification before extending credit. This is designed for your protection.
An initial fraud alert does not have any effect on your credit score.
Creditors may not, by law, refuse to lend to you because you have reported an initial fraud alert.
There is no charge to you for placing a fraud alert on your account.
11. **Mark your calendar for 90 days.** The initial fraud alert stays in place for 90 days. During that time, if you see no other activity that leads you to believe anything fraudulent was occurring, then you may just let it drop. If you wish, you may renew the alert by calling one of the companies again and asking to renew it. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Change-an-Address-on-Your-Credit-Report", "language": "en"} |
How to Make a Sagittarius Man Regret Losing You | If you want to move on from a relationship with a Sagittarius man and make him regret letting you get away, you have to be able to bounce back. Even if the relationship didn’t go where you wanted it to go, there are still plenty of ways to keep yourself in his mind. With his adventurous and wild personality, it might feel like you were just another thing on his bucket list, but there are plenty of ways to keep him checking in his rearview mirror for you. To help with that, we’ve gathered a list of ways to make him regret losing you.
1. **Nothing gets a Sagittarius man’s attention more than a mystery.** Tell him you’ve got some exciting projects going on without going into all the details. Keep things short and aloof to keep him wondering. Send him a picture of a great read you picked up without telling him where you got it right away or snap a picture and post it on social media without adding a caption about where you’ve been. Get his mind racing and trying to figure out just what you’ve been.
2. **Give him the time to see how much he misses having you around.** Not having you in his orbit will likely leave a gap he has to work to fill. Instead, get ready to be the life of your own party. A Sagittarius man loves nothing more than his freedom, so if you try to chase after him in an attempt to mend things, you’ll be doing more harm than good. Instead, let things cool down, and give him some space. Staying quiet on your end while you have fun on your own might just pique his ever-present curiosity.
3. **Grab his attention by posting about any new interests.** Write about a new club you joined with your friends. Take up hiking to a beautiful lake on summer days or studying a subject you think would interest them. Show yourself off having fun with some friends or going to a new gallery in a museum, and he might wish he was with you instead of running around in his own company.
Individual sports like tennis, fencing, martial arts, and ice skating can be great at keeping you busy while leaving them enough room to wish they were next to you.
Try to avoid extravagant outings, and opt for simpler fun instead. Sagittarius men love diving into new places and topics, so you’re better off trying a new hiking trail or picking up a book on philosophy than showing yourself off at a fancy dinner party.
4. **There’s nothing a Sagittarius man can relate to more than freedom.** If you were too busy with him to enjoy some solo hobbies like painting, reading, or skiing, don’t be afraid to jump right back into the fray. You’re your own person who deserves to have all the experiences in the world, so get out there and enjoy yourself and your own company. If you’re out having so much fun by yourself, your ex might regret losing you and missing out on such a great time.
5. **Keep him checking in on you with some new photos of you out on the town.** If you enjoy activities you did together, keep going, and you’ll make him wish he’d continued the journey with you. Snap a selfie with a drink in the bar you found together. If you took a couple’s cooking class, nothing is stopping you from posting a picture of your new favorite dish or sharing the recipe online. Make him jealous with that once-in-a-lifetime sunrise picture you took this morning. Soon he’ll wish he was back in your social circles.
6. **Sagittarius men aren’t shy when it comes to sex and sensuality.** If you’re comfortable showing yourself off, slip into something that makes you feel sexy and snap a photo or two to share. If you picked up a new outfit for yourself that makes you feel confident and stunning, don’t hide it. Grab a few friends and have a mini photoshoot or take a few selfies to post. It might be enough to make him regret leaving you behind.
7. **A new love interest might spark your ex’s jealousy and make him want to be by your side.** A new romance can be just as exciting if not more so than any adventures the Sagittarius man might go on, so don’t be afraid to get out there. Getting out on the town might be just what you need to fire yourself up. Dating someone new might also make him regret losing such a great partner to the competition. Grab his attention with your new adventures and new partner in crime.
Don’t be afraid to give yourself time before heading back out there. Ending relationships is tough, so if you don’t feel like jumping back in right away, a casual night out on the town might be better. Meeting new people doesn’t have to feel like pressure to land someone new right away, so take things as slowly as you need to.
8. **Keeping your head up can show your ex how easily you can move on.** It might make him think twice about letting you get away. Look into positive affirmations to keep things light and boost your confidence. Get moving and exercise for some of those natural happy chemicals. Go out with some friends to a comedy show, and have a good laugh. Sagittarius men don’t slow down after a bump in the road, so don’t be afraid to take life as it comes.
9. **Show your ex you only need yourself to accomplish great things.** Though not essential to the Sagittarius man, showing off your work accomplishments can be a great way to demonstrate your best traits, especially if you have a career dealing with something he enjoys. Otherwise, showing him how driven, motivated, and ultimately successful you are can be a great indicator to him that he’s missing out on something.
Show off that promotion or raise too, if you want. Sagittarius men are lucky with money but driven and motivated, so if you can show you’ve put your heart into something and accomplished great things, they’ll miss having you around to be the best version of themselves.
10. **Pursuing shared interests can show him you can still be his match.** Keeping up with the activities you both enjoyed can be a great way to show a Sagittarius man what he’s missing by not keeping you around. Not only that, it’ll help you discover more about the world around you. As a seeker of truth and knowledge, the Sagittarius man can admire you for that dedication.
11. **The mundane is boring to the Sagittarius man, so push yourself to go on grand adventures.** If you usually go hiking on a trail, take it a step further and try some rock climbing. Do you visit libraries to find the oldest books you can? Try learning a new language and translate a line of these old texts. Don’t let yourself get boxed in, and continue broadening those horizons to show him you don’t need him to push beyond your comfort zone. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Sagittarius-Man-Regret-Losing-You", "language": "en"} |
How to Obtain a Prenuptial Agreement | If you're on your way to getting married, you might be concerned about what will happen if things don't work out. You might also be worried that your partner will interpret your contingency planning as an expression of pessimism or distrust. A proper prenuptial agreement, however, can not only save you from a messy divorce; it can also provide some valuable insights into you and your partner's financial compatibility. While it is advisable for both you and your partner to each have a lawyer draft—or at least review—your prenuptial agreement, it is possible to draft one yourself.
1. **Understand what a prenuptial agreement does.** Put simply, a prenuptial agreement is a legal contract that outlines what each person entering into a marriage has before the marriage is official, and what each person would take out of the marriage if it were to end due to either death or divorce. Normally these decisions are made by the state in which you live. However, a valid prenuptial agreement puts this decision in the hands of you and your partner.
2. **Consider getting a prenuptial agreement if you and your partner currently have different financial situations.** For example, if you make considerably more income, possess a greater amount of assets, or have significantly less debt than your partner, it may be in your best financial interest to get a prenuptial agreement before you and your partner are officially married.
For example, if you will be receiving a large inheritance, a prenuptial agreement can help ensure you retain ownership of these assets instead of them being part of shared marital property.
Alternatively, if your partner is liable for a large debt, a prenuptial agreement can protect you from being subject to your partner's creditors.
If you do not currently have any major financial assets, but expect to earn an increased amount of income during your marriage, or if you are pursuing an educational degree in a highly lucrative profession, you should still consider filing a prenuptial agreement.
3. **Consider getting a prenuptial agreement if this is not you or your partner's first marriage.** Prenuptial agreements can outline who will pay the expenses for children from previous marriages. Therefore, such an agreement can be useful in this situation to make clear who will be responsible for providing for such children, in addition to outlining how assets will be allocated in the event of death or divorce.
Be aware, however, that certain expenses—such as paying for college using federal financial aid—still require both parents to be financially involved regardless of the existence of a prenuptial agreement.
4. **Consider getting a prenuptial agreement if you or your partner own a business.** A prenuptial agreement in this situation can serve two purposes. First, it can protect the assets of the person who owns the business in case the marriage ends. Second, it can protect the person who does not own the business from incurring any liability resulting from the operations of that business.
5. **Hire an attorney.** Prenuptial agreements must be professionally drafted in order to ensure they do not run afoul of state law. Therefore, it is very important that you and your spouse . If both parties are represented by the same attorney, it will be seen as a direct conflict of interest, which may affect the viability of your agreement.
To find an attorney ask friends and family for recommendations. If they do not have any recommendations, you should look at your state bar's website, which will often have a lawyer referral service or a list of qualified attorneys. When you are choosing an attorney, find one who specializes in marriages and prenuptial agreements.
Once you find some potential candidates, sit down with them for an initial consultation. During this consultation you should ask the attorney about their background and experience in dealing with prenuptial agreements. Make sure you feel comfortable with them representing you.
When you find the right attorney, hire them and make sure you get your fee arrangement in writing.
6. **Have a conversation about finances with your partner.** Prenuptial agreements usually come down to money, so you and your partner should talk openly about your respective finances, and what will happen to each person's money and assets once the two of you are married. Even if you don't end up drafting an actual agreement, getting this information out in the open will provide a strong foundation of trust for your marriage going forward.
Be sure to touch on all the financial issues that may affect your future marriage, including: current assets and debts, credit ratings, shared expenses, whether you and your partner will maintain separate bank accounts, what you and your partner's financial goals are, whether one of you will stay at home with the children or if you will both work, etc.
Try beginning the conversation with a financial issue both of you share: "Hey, so I was looking over some bills today, and I realize I still have a ways to go in paying off my student loans. What do yours look like?"
7. **Have this conversation as early as possible.** It is best to have this conversation well in advance of the marriage to give both you and your partner plenty of time to be honest with each other and reach an understanding in a calm, logical manner. Even if you're not sure if you want such an agreement, or you're not clear on the terms yet, it's important to let your partner know that it's on your mind.
A good time to bring it up is when you're already talking about money, as mentioned in the previous step.
You can also start the conversation by discussing a television show, movie, news story, or a divorce that someone you know is going through: "What a mess. I think you should be able to keep whatever you had before you got married. What do you think?"
If you are attending religious counseling as a couple prior to your marriage, try including a conversation about your finances and how you will support each other during the course of the marriage as a way to broach the subject of a prenuptial agreement: "My mother left me a sizable inheritance. I'd like to keep that separate from our shared finances so we can use it if one of us gets sick or as a college-fund for our future children. That way, we don't have to worry about saving as much of our regular income. What do you think?"
8. **Keep the conversation professional.** Prenuptial agreements center around how to handle certain finances: the income each partner makes before marriage, prior assets, property acquired during the marriage, retirement plans, and how you will support each other. Instead of framing the conversation around the looming possibility of divorce, try sitting down with your partner and planning your financial future as a couple, which includes both past, present, and future assets and income.
This way, you can discuss this subject as something you are doing together for the benefit of both of you (and any children involved), rather than as a contingency plan in case your marriage fails.
Focus on reasons other than a possible break up for the reason you want the agreement: "So, I have student loans that I will have to pay off over the next ten years. I have some money saved up, and I'd like to keep that aside from our shared finances in case I ever need emergency funds to keep making regular payments. I don't ever want you to be liable for my debt. Does that sounds good to you?"
You can also consider utilizing the services of a mediator who specializes in prenuptial agreements. This will provide a controlled, non-judgmental environment in which you and your partner can sort out the details without the formality of a lawyer present.
9. **Be honest** It might not be the most romantic conversation you and your partner ever have, but it's important in a healthy relationship to be able to discuss your fears and concerns.
If you anticipate your partner getting defensive, emphasize your own vulnerability. Conversely, try not to get defensive yourself. Chances are one of you makes more money than the other, but it is almost certain both of you work hard at what you do.
You might also explain that it's not the commitment or marriage that you're questioning; it's the legalities of the "contract" you're figuratively signing when you get married. In other words, you don't agree with your local marriage/divorce laws, and wish to draft your own version to make the laws suit your particular needs.
Encourage your partner to think about his or her own assets and future as well.
Try to keep the tone light. You two are in love, after all.
"I love the fact we're both gainfully employed—big change from the days I was delivering pizzas and living off government macaroni & cheese, right? Now that the universe has decided to give me a win, and I'm making good money now, I think I'd like to set some aside in a separate account to take care of my parents. Would you be alright with that?"
10. **Get your partner to agree to having a prenuptial agreement.** At this point, both of you should have a good understanding of each other's financial situation and, during these conversations, you should also have gotten an idea of your partner's willingness to commit to a formal legal agreement. If your partner still seems unsure, you will want to try to get them to understand that the legal agreement in no way affects how you feel about them.
Reiterate that it will protect your partner as well: "I don't want you ever to be responsible for money I owed before I met you. This document will make sure this happens. It also allows you to put some money aside for things that come up in your life."
Make your reasons clear: "This isn't because I don't trust you, I just want to make sure our parents/our children/our future is protected."
Paint the agreement more as a financial plan than as an escape valve: "We're starting this life together, I'd just like to have a financial roadmap in place so we know exactly where we stand now—and where we need to go—to achieve our mutual dreams. I was never good with my money, but now that we're together I'd like to start."
If your partner remains reticent, you will have to assess the benefit of pushing them against the cost of alienating them or starting your marriage off on the wrong foot.
11. **Make a list of each person's assets, debts, income, and expected future gains.** Be sure each person fully and accurately discloses all relevant financial information. Not only should you do this to be honest with each other, but failing to do so could render any prenuptial agreement invalid if challenged in court. You will use this information to draft your prenuptial agreement.
When it doubt, disclose.
12. **Research your state's laws.** Every state has specific laws surrounding whether prenuptial agreements are allowed and, if so, what types of things cannot be included in them. Generally speaking, you cannot include any of the following in a prenuptial agreement:
Restrictions on child support, custody, or visitation;
Giving up rights to alimony;
Encouragements to divorce; and
Rules about non-financial matters (e.g., who will do chores, whether you will have pets, who will take the child to school).
13. **Provide a thorough description of each asset in your prenuptial agreement.** This will help identify each asset properly in the event you become divorced and the prenuptial agreement is reviewed in a court of law.
Include locations and addresses of all your properties; bank account names and numbers; the make, model, and year of any vehicles you own; and explicit descriptions of any valuable belongings in your possession, such as cuts of diamonds on jewelry, or the names of artists for paintings you own.
14. **Enter any existing debts you have into the prenuptial agreement.** Since you are filing a prenuptial agreement, both parties must disclose all their financial assets and debts in the event the agreement is challenged in court.
15. **Define the property that will be kept separate.** Each person will bring into the marriage their own property and/or assets. In your prenuptial agreement, you should identify the specific property that will remain in the sole possession of its original owner in the event the marriage ends.
Also consider what will happen in the event an asset increases in value over the course of a marriage (i.e., if the value of your collectible car appreciates dramatically in value over the course of the next ten years).
Be as specific as you can when referring to each asset. There should be no room for confusion regarding the property to which a particular provision of the agreement refers.
Include assets or provisions that deal only with finances and property, such as businesses, vehicles, homes, valuable jewelry, antiques, properties you own, savings accounts, stocks, and inheritances.
Be sure to keep separate property in the original owner's name only throughout the duration of the marriage, or this may override the prenuptial agreement.
For example, "The following shall constitute the Parties' Separate Property: The property listed on Schedule A as [Partner 1's] property and on Schedule B as [Partner 2's] property, which schedules are annexed hereto and made part hereof." The "schedules" would be separate, attached documents that detail specific property for each person.
16. **Define the property that will be shared.** After you have decided which property to keep separate, you can also identify in the agreement the property that will be shared between both partners during the marriage. This is called marital property.
You should also detail how assets acquired over the course of the marriage will be divided in the event the marriage ends.
For example, "The following shall constitute the Parties' Marital Property: All property acquired during the marriage until the occurrence of a Termination Event [divorce, separation, annulment, etc.] that is not Separate Property as set forth in the previous section [that details specific property that will be kept separate]."
17. **Define how existing debts will be paid.** Also consider what will happen with any debts that either person brings into the marriage. The agreement can provide that a person is solely responsible for debts he or she brings into the marriage, or it can provide that certain debts will be paid for with marital property.
For example, "Obligations [debts] of a party incurred prior to the marriage shall remain the separate obligations of that party. The other party shall not be liable for those obligations, and shall be indemnified and held harmless from them by the responsible party. Such existing obligations shall be paid from the separate property of the responsible party."
18. **Define any financial support.** You can also use a prenuptial agreement to establish how a partner will survive financially if he or she will be staying at home to take care of any children. It can also outline any financial support, if any, that will be paid by either person to the other in the event of a divorce.
For example, "In the event of a legal separation, divorce, or annulment, the parties agree to waive any rights to spousal support or maintenance of any kind to which either might otherwise be entitled. The parties agree that this provision may be entered as a complete defense by either party in response to an action for alimony."
This is also a good time to include provisions relating to children from previous marriages, if this situation applies to you. The agreement can detail what support will be given to any minor children in the event of a divorce.
19. **Define what will happen to the marital residence.** This is a particularly contested issue in the event of a divorce. It will be helpful to decide now what will happen to the home you and your partner share if the marriage ends. Think about who will get it or, if it will be sold, how the proceeds from the sale will be divided.
For example, "In the event of a Termination Event: The marital home shall be placed on the market for sale within one year from the date of the Termination Event and the net proceeds of the sale shall be distributed in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. [Partner 1 or 2] has the right to remain in the marital residence up to one (1) year following a Termination Event."
20. **Define how finances will be handled during the marriage.** You can also include provisions in the prenuptial agreement relating to how large purchases will be made, who will handle shared finances, who will pay household bills, and if you will maintain separate or joint bank accounts.
21. **Define how taxes will be handled during the marriage.** In the prenuptial agreement, you can outline how you and your partner will pay any taxes either of you owe. For example, you can decide whether you will file jointly or separately, or what will be done about pre-existing tax debt for which either person is liable.
22. **Define how property will be allocated in the event of a divorce.** While divorce is by no means an eventuality for you and your partner, one of the major benefits of having a prenuptial agreement is avoiding argument in the case of a divorce. In your agreement, detail how property will be divided in the event of a split, otherwise the law of your state will decide for you.
For example, "In the event of a Termination Event: Each Party shall retain his or her Separate Property, and the other Party agrees not to make any claim in or to such property. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all Martial Property shall be divided between the Parties in accordance with [state law]."
Be aware that while you can attempt to include provisions relating to alimony in the agreement, not all states allow this.
23. **Decide how long you want the prenuptial agreement to last.** The prenuptial agreement does not have to last forever. You can indicate how long you want it to last using what is known as a "sunset clause" to specify a future date on which the agreement is no longer valid. In addition, you may choose to outline any conditions that relate to who ends the marriage or why the marriage ends.
You can also detail when and how the prenuptial agreement can be renegotiated at a later date.
For example, "This Agreement may not be amended or revoked except by an instrument in writing signed by both of the parties and acknowledged and witnessed with the same formalities of this Agreement, expressly modifying or revoking one or more or all of the provisions of this Agreement."
Be aware, however, that states are not likely to give much weight to any sections of a prenuptial agreement that mandate certain consequences for a person based on his or her degree of "fault" (like having an affair).
24. **Make sure the agreement is fair to both people.** While courts presume prenuptial agreements to be legal, they can be challenged and thrown out if they do not protect both people adequately. After you have drafted the agreement, make sure to keep the following in mind while finalizing it:
Make sure each person has fully disclosed all assets and debts.
Make sure neither person has pressured the other to sign, and that each person has had enough time to fully consider the agreement before signing it.
Make sure the agreement considers each person. Don't try to take advantage of the other person or try to leave them with less than they deserve if the marriage ends.
Make sure both people have an opportunity to have their own lawyer read it before they sign.
25. **Make the prenuptial agreement official.** Though the requirements vary by jurisdiction, a prenuptial agreement is a legal document and therefore you must meet certain conditions for the document itself to be legally valid:
It should be in writing.
It should be dated and signed by both you and your partner.
Some states require one or two witnesses to the signing of the document.
Both you and your partner should visit a notary public in person, each testify to the document's authenticity, and then get the document officially notarized.
Make sure you have at least three copies for your records—one for each person and another to give to a third-party or save in a shared secure location. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Obtain-a-Prenuptial-Agreement", "language": "en"} |
How to Create a Trust Fund | Although the idea of a trust fund is generally associated with estate planning for the very wealthy, middle class families can also benefit from the tax advantages and privacy of a trust fund. The idea that you have to be rich to utilize a trust fund is a fallacy. Trust funds allow people to distribute their property and assets to beneficiaries without having to involve the courts in the probate process and without having to pay some estate taxes. You can set up a trust fund with the assistance of a trust and estates attorney, or you can draw up the documents yourself.
1. **Understand what a trust fund is.** A trust fund is a legal entity that holds property and assets and distributes them to beneficiaries when certain conditions have been met. People choose to set up trust funds to avoid estate taxes and to avoid probate. All trusts have important parties. These are the grantor, the trustee, and the beneficiaries.
Probate is a time-consuming and expensive process that occurs after a person's death. It includes verifying the validity of a will, inventorying and appraising property, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property.
A grantor is the person who creates the trust. The grantor establishes the nature of the trust, transfers initial assets to the newly established trust, and defines its rules.
The trustee is responsible for managing the trust and its assets. The trustee can be the grantor, a trusted family member or friend or a corporate trustee such as the trust division of a bank. If the grantor designates himself as the trustee, then he should also choose a successor trustee to serve as trustee in the case of his death or incapacitation. The trustee must follow the rules of the trust and act in accordance with state law. Grantors can also name a successor trustee(s) if the initial trustee(s) fail to serve for any reason.
The beneficiaries receive the property in the trust. The rules of the trust establish which property the beneficiaries receive, the circumstances that must be met, and the timing of the property distribution.
2. **Learn the financial elements of a trust fund.** A trust fund can hold tangible assets such as cash, stocks, real estate, and intangible assets such as patents and copyrights. The assets can grow while being held in the trust. The trustee is responsible for managing investments and growth of the trust fund. The rules established by the grantor dictate which beneficiaries receive the income, profits, or capital gains and principal of the trust.
The grantor of the fund has the power to establish rules and requirements in terms of how money will be distributed or invested.
The principal is the money or property that was initially given to the trust. It is also called the corpus.
Stocks and other investments earn interest and dividends. This is referred to as income.
Increases in value to the principal are the profits or capital gains.
3. **Understand the difference between a trust and a will.** The most significant difference between a trust and a will is that a trust allows the property to be distributed to the beneficiaries without having to go through probate. In addition, trusts are usually more private than wills. A trust, however, cannot name guardians for children. Also, a trust cannot designate how taxes and debt are to be handled. Therefore, those who set up trusts also write wills.
4. **Establish the nature of the trust.** Choose from a variety of trust structures to perform different functions. The kind of trust you set up depends on the type of property and assets you want it to hold and the circumstances surrounding the beneficiaries you designate. In addition, trusts can be living (which means coming into effect during your lifetime) or testamentary (coming into effect upon your death). Trusts can also be revocable, meaning you can change the terms of the trust, or irrevocable, which means the trust cannot be changed.
A living trust can distribute assets to beneficiaries after your death or use assets to provide for your long term care while you are still alive if necessary.
With a revocable trust, you retain some ownership of the assets in the trust, allowing you to make changes in the way the assets are handled if you deem it necessary. With an irrevocable trust, you transfer complete ownership of the assets to the trust. Revocable and irrevocable trusts also have different tax implications. Revocable trusts are subject to some estate taxes, whereas irrevocable trusts may be set up to avoid estate taxes.
A bypass trust is useful for married couples with assets in excess of $5 million. It allows them to avoid some estate taxes when passing inheritances to heirs. A bypass trust is also known as a credit shelter trust, a marital trust, or a family trust.
A special needs trust provides for a disabled person.
A spendthrift trust defines the terms under which the beneficiary can receive the property, such as at a specific age or as a series of payments over a number of years. It may also limit the types of expenses on which the money can be spent, such as college tuition.
A charitable remainder trust donates assets to a charity upon your death.
5. **List the beneficiaries.** Choosing beneficiaries requires careful consideration of the amount of property to be distributed and the person's ability to manage the money responsibly. Trusts can be set up to provide for children so they can enjoy the same lifestyle they had while you were alive. It can also protect your assets from their creditors. You can distribute property equally to all beneficiaries or leave unequal amounts to each.
6. **Appoint a trustee.** The trustee's job is to manage the trust and all of its assets. The trustee must abide by all of the rules of the trust and follow any applicable state laws. You can be the trustee of your own trust, or you can appoint your adult children, other relatives, a trustworthy friend or a corporate trustee such as a bank.
If you appoint yourself as the trustee, you should also name a successor to take over as trustee upon your death or if you become incapacitated.
If you choose an individual to be your trustee or successor trustee, choose someone whom you trust to manage the assets responsibly and to respect your wishes. You can also nominate joint or successor trustees.
When choosing a trustee, consider the value of the assets and the complexity of the trust. Choose someone who has the capabilities and the time to manage the responsibilities.
If you choose a bank to be your trustee, you may also appoint an individual co-trustee.
The advantages of having a bank as a trustee include professional record keeping and tax preparation, objectivity, no conflicts of interests and protection against misappropriation of funds.
Disadvantages of using a bank as a trustee include the lack of a relationship with the beneficiaries, meaning they may not understand the dynamics and relationships within the family. Bank investments are also generally conservative, which may have a negative impact on the trust's potential to earn income.
Banks do charge fees for acting as a trustee, but an individual may also expect to be paid a fee for serving as a trustee.
7. **Notify beneficiaries of the terms of the trust and who the trustee is.** Generally, the trustee notifies the beneficiaries that he is in charge of the trust. He also explains when they can expect to receive the property and assets from the trust and under what conditions.
Some states require that the trustee use specific language to do this. Others allow a trustee to use his own words.
Most states impose a time limit within which trustees must make contact with beneficiaries upon the grantor's death.
8. **List the assets used to fund the trust.** Assets used to fund a trust include income-bearing or cash assets. Other funding sources include stocks, bonds, and real estate, as well as intangible property and life insurance policies. Funding the trust is the process of transferring ownership of the assets from you to the trust. The titles of your assets are physically changed from your name to the name of the trust. For stocks, bonds and other assets with listed beneficiaries, the beneficiary becomes the trust.
Note that transfers from living persons will be subject to gift taxes.
9. **Create a trust document.** The trust document contains all of the information about your trust. It explains what kind of trust you want to set up, names the trustee and beneficiaries and transfers assets to the trust fund. You can have an estate attorney draw up the trust document or you can do it on your own. After you write the document, it must be signed in front of a notary.
10. **File the document with the state if you are required to do so.** Some states require you to file trust documents with the state so there is a legal record of it. An attorney can advise you about whether or not this is necessary and how to do it.
If you decide to use an attorney, find a trust and estates attorney who regularly handles matters that match your concerns and situation. For example, if you are setting up a trust for a disabled child, find an attorney who frequently deals with that area. If you don't already know an attorney, you can search for one on sites such as FindLaw or Lawyers.com. Look for a trust and estates attorney who is a member of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel.
You can create a trust document on your own without an attorney. Find high-quality self-help materials to assist you. Nolo, a publisher of legal self-help books and software, publishes an Online Living Trust application that can guide you through the process. You can also visit their Estate Planning Library to find books that can help you write the document. Do be cautious, however, as trust laws and taxation of trust assets are complicated. Establishing a trust without legal advice is possible but not recommended.
11. **Open the trust fund bank account.** Take your signed agreement to a bank or financial institution to open your trust fund bank account. Open the account in the name of the trust. You will need the names and addresses of the trustees. Also, provide the bank with the names and contact information of anyone who will be authorized to access the trust fund account.
12. **File taxes for the trust.** The trust is considered a separate legal entity, and a separate tax return must be filed. The trust will receive a deduction for any income distributed to beneficiaries, but the beneficiaries are responsible for paying the taxes on that income. You will need to complete Schedule B of Form 1041 (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1041.pdf) for the trust, and the beneficiary must complete Schedule K-1. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Trust-Fund", "language": "en"} |
How to Say Hello in Japanese | The Japanese language and culture focus on respect and formality. How you greet people depends, to a large extent, on who you're greeting and the context in which you're greeting them. However, in most situations, konnichiwa is appropriate. Along with your greeting, you're generally expected to bow as a sign of respect. The bow is the Japanese equivalent of a handshake in Western countries, so it's important to follow the appropriate protocol.
1. **Use konnichiwa (こんにちは) to greet most people in most settings.** Konnichiwa (koh-nee-chee-wah) is the most common way to say "hello" in Japanese, and is considered an all-purpose greeting. You can use it during the day when greeting anyone, regardless of their social status.
Konnichiwa comes from the word "today" in the phrase "How are you today?" For this reason, it isn't appropriate to use later in the evening, after the sun goes down. You also won't hear Japanese people say it very often early in the morning.
2. **Greet people with ohayō gozaimasu (おはよう ございます) in the morning.** ohayō gozaimasu (oh-hah-yoh goh-zah-ee-muhss-oo) means "good morning" in Japanese and is the standard greeting that replaces konnichiwa in the early morning hours, typically before 10:00 a.m. This greeting is appropriate with strangers, or when you're greeting people in a position of authority over you, such as your teacher or your boss.
This greeting is appropriate both when you're approaching someone and when you're departing their company (as a form of "goodbye"), but watch the time of day. If it's approaching afternoon, you should probably use sayonara (sah-yoh-nah-rah) instead.
3. **Switch to konbanwa (こんばんは) in the evening.** Konbanwa (kohn-bahn-wah) means "good evening" in Japanese and is appropriate to use when you're greeting anyone in the late afternoon or evening hours after the sun goes down. This greeting is used both when you're meeting someone and when you're departing.
As you're taking your leave, you can also use oyasumi nasai (おやすみなさい) to say "goodbye" at night. This phrase is not typically used as a greeting, only when you're leaving. Pronounce it oh-yah-soo-mee nah-sigh.
4. **Follow up your greeting by asking o genki desu ka (お元気ですか).** O genki desu ka (oh gehn-kee dehss kah) is a polite, formal way to say "how are you?" It can also be a great way to get a conversation started with someone you just met.
This phrase allows you to connect with the person you're speaking to and is considered respectful, especially if they're someone who is older than you or in a position of authority.
If the other person asks you this question, reply with o kagesama de genki desu, which means "thank you, I'm fine."
5. **Answer the phone with moshi moshi (もしもし).** While in English you use the same greeting on the phone that you would in person, Japanese has a different greeting that is exclusively for use on the phone. You say moshi moshi (moh-shee moh-shee) whether you are the caller or the person being called.
Never use moshi moshi to greet someone in person. You'll get a strange look from the person you're greeting.
6. **Use an abbreviated version of konnichiwa around people you know.** When you're speaking more rapidly, especially around people you know, it's acceptable not to fully pronounce all the syllables of konnichiwa. The word instead comes out sounding something like "konchiwa."
You will hear this abbreviated version particularly in urban areas, such as in Tokyo, where Japanese is typically spoken much more rapidly.
7. **Shorten your greetings among friends and family members.** All of the standard Japanese greetings become shortened when you're talking to people your own age or younger, or people you know well. Some shortened greetings include:
Ohayō, instead of ohayō gozaimasu, for "good morning"
Genki desuka, instead of o genki desu ka, for "how are you"
Oyasumi, instead of oyasumi nasai, for "goodnight" (as you're leaving)
8. **Say ossu if you are male and greeting close male friends.** Ossu (ohss) is an informal greeting, similar to saying "hey man" or "hey dude" in English. It is used exclusively between male friends and relatives who are around the same age.
Ossu is rarely used between female friends, or between friends of different genders.
9. **Greet friends with yaho if you are a young person.** Yaho (yah-hoh) is an extremely informal greeting, typically used by girls to greet other girlfriends. Even if you are older, you can still use this greeting among friends if you feel young and hip.
Boys and young men more often say yo (yoh) than yaho.
10. **Accompany your greeting with a bow.** Japanese speakers typically bow while saying the word they're using as a greeting as a sign of respect to the person they're greeting. This means you would bow while saying the word konnichiwa – not afterwards.
While the Japanese bow can be compared to a handshake in Western culture, typically, in Western culture, you would say "hello" first, then extend your hand for a handshake. This is a key difference in Japanese body language while greeting.
11. **Bend from the waist with a straight back and your arms by your side.** Bowing with just your shoulders or your head is seen as rude if you're bowing to someone you don't know, an elder, or an authority figure. Keep your arms straight with the backs of your hands facing the person you're bowing to.
When you bow, move at the same pace you normally would. Lean forward, and then raise back up moving at approximately the same speed. Think in terms of how quickly you'd shake someone's hand.
Always keep your eyes forward in the direction of your eyes. Try to look to the ground a middle-distance in front of you, or at the feet of the person you're bowing to.
12. **Return any bow you receive.** If you make the initial greeting, typically you'll bow first. The other person will then bow as they greet you. However, if the other person greets you and bows first, you are expected to bow in response.
A single bow is typically sufficient. If you bow, and then the other person bows in response, there's no need to bow again.
13. **Vary the angle of your bow to indicate the level of respect.** Japanese culture is hierarchical. How deep you bow indicates the level of formality and social respect for the person to whom you're bowing. In most situations, a 15-degree bow is appropriate.
A formal bow of 30 degrees is appropriate if you're greeting someone who is much older than you or has authority over you, such as a boss or a teacher.
There are also even deeper bows, up to 45 degrees, but these would generally be reserved for when you meet someone of extremely high rank in society, such as the prime minister or emperor of Japan.
14. **Bow to each member of a group individually.** If you are greeting a group of people, it is customary to greet each one of them individually. This means you will also repeat the ritual of the bow with each person.
If this seems odd to you, think about what you would do if you were being introduced to a group of business associates in a more formal business setting. You typically would shake hands with each of them as you were told their names. This custom is no different.
15. **Nod your head instead of bowing to close friends your age.** When you're greeting close friends, especially if you are younger, there doesn't tend to be as much formality. However, the custom of the bow persists in a respectful nod of the head as you're greeting the person.
If you're greeting a friend and they are accompanied by someone you don't know, return to a full bow when you greet that person. To simply nod to them would be considered disrespectful.
When in doubt, follow the lead of the other person, especially if you are visiting in Japan. If they nod to you, then you can assume they won't consider it rude if you nod back. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Say-Hello-in-Japanese", "language": "en"} |
How to Thin Nail Polish | Like many cosmetics, nail polish that has been exposed to air will lose its effectiveness over time. Old nail polish will become thick, clumpy and difficult to apply. Fortunately, there are a simple few beauty tricks that you can try to extend the life of your nail polish. To thin nail polish, try warming the bottle using your hands or hot water if the polish just recently started separating, or add small amounts of nail polish thinner to the bottle when dealing with older polish that no longer responds to these warming techniques. Properly storing your nail polish will also reduce future clumps.
1. **Turn the bottle upside down to blend the pigments back together.** Keep flipping it upside down and right-side-up for two to three minutes.. Sometimes, this is all your nail polish needs in order to get revived.
2. **Roll the bottle between the palms of your hands for a few minutes.** The warmth from your hands will create a thinner consistency and help make it easier to spread on your nails. Never shake the bottle, as this will create tiny bubbles.
3. **Try holding the bottle under hot water for two minutes.** Make sure that the bottle is tightly closed, and hold it by the cap so that you don't burn your fingers. The hot water will warm the nail polish up and make it easier to spread on your nails.
4. **Paint one nail to test the consistency.** Allow the first coat to dry before applying a second one. If the polish is too thick or clumpy, keep reading to learn what to do next.
5. **Open the nail polish bottle and add two to three drops of nail polish thinner.** </ref> Use an eye dropper to measure out the drops. You can find nail polish thinner in most drug stores and beauty shops.
If you are going to thin gel nail polish, use gel nail polish thinner. Gel nail polish has a special UV reactive makeup, so using regular nail polish thinner may prevent it from working properly.
6. **Use acetone or nail polish remover as a last resort.** Both can ruin the nail polish and cause it to crack when it dries. If you use acetone or nail polish remover, you will most likely need to toss your polish out after a few more uses.
Do not use acetone or nail polish remover to thin gel nail polish.
7. **Close the bottle tightly and roll it between your palms to mix the thinner into the polish.** Do not shake the bottle, as this will create air bubbles. If the thinner is not mixing into the polish, try turning the bottle upside down a few times.
8. **Repeat the process if necessary.** If the nail polish is still thick, open the bottle and add another two to three drops. Close the bottle again, and roll the bottle between your palms to mix the thinner into the polish.
9. **Consider letting the nail polish thinner sit in very thick polish before mixing it.** If your nail polish is very thick, and you have already repeated the process a few times, try letting the thinner sit in the polish. Simply open the bottle, add two to three drops of nail polish thinner, and close the bottle. Let the bottle sit for one hour, then mix the thinner into the polish by rolling the bottle.
10. **Save the brush by dipping it in acetone.** Fill a glass or ceramic cup with acetone. Do not use plastic, or the acetone will melt it, and do not use a cup that you plan on drinking out of later. Dip the brush into the acetone and swish it around. The dried nail polish should dissolve and fall off. If there is any residue, you can remove it with a paper towel; do not use a cotton ball or a cotton pad. When you are done, put the cap back into the bottle. The residue acetone will help thin out the polish inside the bottle.
Acetone may ruin the nail polish. It might be a good idea to do this when the bottle is almost empty.
11. **Know what to do if you made the polish too thin.** If you used too much thinner and made your nail polish too thin, all you have to do is let some air back into it. Take the brush out first and clean it with some nail polish remover. Wrap the brush with some plastic wrap, and leave the nail polish bottle, opened, in a quiet spot. Check back on it after a day. The air in the room will make it thick again.
Sometimes, you may need to leave the bottle open for a few days. This will depend on how hot, cold, dry, or humid the room is.
12. **Know how to prevent your nail polish from drying out or becoming clumpy.** Nail polish will eventually expire on its own, but there are a few things you can do to make it last longer. This section will give you some tips on how to properly take care of your nail polish so that it does not dry out again as fast.
13. **Wipe the neck of the nail polish bottle with a cotton ball soaked in acetone before closing it.** This will remove any excess polish. If you don't do this, the polish may dry on the neck and make the bottle difficult to close. This will cause air to get trapped inside the bottle, which will make the polish dry out faster.
14. **Store the nail polish in a cool, dry place.** Do not keep it in the bathroom; the temperature changes too much, too often. Instead, try keeping nail polish in your desk drawer instead.
Use caution if storing it in the refrigerator door. The cold climate may help the polish last longer, but it is also a closed-in space. If the polish breaks in the fridge, you may have a potential fire hazard due to the fumes.
15. **Keep the bottles upright and don't leave them on their sides.** When storing your polish, it is important to leave the bottles standing upright. Leaving them on their sides will cause the polish to flow into the neck. This may cause the polish to dry and make the bottle harder to open.
16. **Always close the polish as soon as you are done using it.** Do not leave it open while you are waiting for your manicure to dry. Nail polish dries when air touches it, so the less contact your polish has with air, the better. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Thin-Nail-Polish", "language": "en"} |
How to Make Libum | Want to make your own libum? Also called "Roman Cheesecake," this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. We've put together a quick and easy recipe for you to follow, so you can whip up some libum to enjoy at home.
1. **A medium-sized mixing bowl works well for this.**
2. **Keep mashing until the cheese becomes a smooth, lump-free paste.**
3. **Mix the flour in with your fingers.**
4. **Mix it well with the other ingredients.** The dough will be rather sticky.
5. **Form two round, flat, ⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) thick loaves.**
6. **The loaves and bay leaves should be set on a greased baking sheet.**
7. **Let the libum bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until cooked through.**
8. **Spread the tops with the honey, and let cool.** Be sure to remove the bay leaves before serving. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Libum", "language": "en"} |
How to Block Drafts from a Fireplace | Everyone likes to cozy up in front of a fireplace during the cold months. When the fireplace is off, however, you may experience the cold air coming through the chimney and stealing the warmth out of your home. By properly using a damper, covering the fireplace, or installing a chimney balloon, you can keep the heat in and the cold out!
1. **Hire a professional to install a damper if you don’t have one.** A damper rests inside of or on top of your chimney and prevents drafts from coming down the chimney. Since improper installation could result in a chimney fire or chimney blockage, hire a professional service.
A top damper sits on top of the chimney and has a cord that runs down the length of the chimney. Top dampers can also protect against animals getting into your chimney.
A throat damper sits just above the area the fire is lit and requires more work to install.
2. **Pull the lever or cord to open and close the damper.** The cord or lever be on the top or side of the fireplace. The position of the damper control will depend on the which damper you have installed. Pay attention to which position is open and which position is closed when the damper is installed.
3. **Open the damper before you light a fire.** If you fail to the open the damper before you light your fire, smoke or gas could build up inside your home. If you see or smell smoke or gas, open the damper as soon as you can.
If you lit the fire and forgot to open the damper, use pliers or an oven mitt to pull the lever so you don’t burn yourself.
To help clear the air in your home, open a few windows.
4. **Close the damper after all the embers are burnt out.** Make sure your fire is completely out or else residual smoke could fill your home. When the embers are cold to the touch, pull the cord or lever to close the damper. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.
5. **Wait 5 minutes before closing the damper on gas fireplaces.** This allows time for any unburned excess gas to escape without it entering your home.
6. **Measure the width and height of the fireplace opening.** Use a tape measure so you can determine what size draft guard you need.
7. **Purchase a draft guard online or in store.** Once you find the measurements, make sure you buy a guard that is at least the size of the opening. Buy a guard that is at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) larger on each side of the hole so you have some wiggle room.
Draft guards are sold in hardware stores or online.
Buy a guard in a color that accents the inside of your house.
8. **Unfold the guard and place it over the hole.** Place the guard so it’s flush with the opening of your fireplace. The guard is sturdy enough to stand on its own and will block any draft coming down your chimney.
Keep the guard over your fireplace whenever you aren’t using it.
9. **Remove the guard and fold it flat when you want to use the fireplace.** The guard folds flat for compact storage when you want to light a fire. Stand it next to the fireplace or hide it underneath a piece of furniture so it’s not in the way.
Once the fireplace is cool again, place the guard over the hole.
10. **Purchase a chimney balloon.** Chimney balloons are reusable and inflatable plastic pieces that fit inside your chimney to block any drafts. They are easy to use, but only if you have access to the interior of your chimney.
Chimney balloons can be purchased from online retailers.
11. **Inflate the balloon partially so it resembles a floppy pillow.** Blow air into the plastic tube attached to the handle of the balloon. A few breaths should be enough to spread the balloon out. This helps you work with the balloon so it fits easily into the chimney.
12. **Place the balloon in the chimney flue.** Take the balloon by the handle and hold it up to the opening of your chimney above the main firebox. The balloon should be parallel to the opening so it fills the entire area.
If you need to make the balloon fit better, push the corners of the balloon up into the chimney with your fingers.
13. **Blow up the balloon until it holds firmly in the chimney.** Hold the balloon by the handle as you blow into the plastic tube. Make sure the balloon holds tight once you inflate it. After it is inflated enough to fill the chimney, close the valve on the handle.
Remove the plastic tube so it doesn’t hang down in your fireplace.
14. **Remove the balloon before you light a fire.** The balloon needs to be removed before you start a fire so smoke or gas doesn’t fill your home. Chimney balloons have a fail-safe if you forget to remove them and will deflate when it’s heated.
Keep a reminder card or tie something to the handle of the balloon so you don’t forget it’s there.
Reinflate the chimney balloon once the chimney is cold. Place the balloon back into the chimney so it fits firmly. Chimney balloons can be reused as long as it holds air. If it has a leak, replace the balloon. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Block-Drafts-from-a-Fireplace", "language": "en"} |
How to Stop Your Ex Stalking You | Once upon a time, you were a happy couple. But things changed and you broke up. And now your ex pops up at your workplace or school, parks in front of your house, sits two tables away from you at your favorite restaurant, hidden behind a newspaper, and sends you gifts, postcards, emails and text messages begging you to come back. And not just once, but every hour of every day. You are being stalked. This obsessive behavior will drive you crazy and could be dangerous, and you need to make it stop.
1. ** Call 911 if you think you are in danger** If you are concerned about your immediate safety, do not hesitate to call for help. When you call in, make sure you clearly describe where you are and what is happening. If possible, remain as calm as you can, and try to explain the kind of help you need. The more details you can give, the more quickly the dispatcher will be able to send help. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.
2. **Cut through your denial.** Your first step to stopping a stalker is to accept that you are being stalked. Stalking is not a minor problem or a small irritant. It can be dangerous, and should not be tolerated.
Stalkers can be either men or women, and anyone can be a victim. If you are at all concerned about your ex and what he or she might do, it is not a sign of weakness to accept that. Only when doing that will you be able to stop it.
Don’t worry about overreacting. If you feel scared, worried, or angered about someone else’s behavior, you don’t need to tolerate it. If you are concerned, act quickly.
3. **Do not confront your stalker.** Recognizing their behavior will only confirm their belief that it is working, and will encourage further stalking behavior. This means ignoring gifts, calls, and any attempts to contact you. Do not return them or respond in any way.
You cannot reason with a stalker. This person has already decided that they will follow you, no matter what you say. This kind of reaction will only encourage them to continue trying, or to try even harder, to stay in touch with you.
4. **Tell other people.** If you think you are being stalked, let others know. Tell your friends, family members, or other people you trust. That way, they can help keep an eye out for your stalker, and call the police if they think something is wrong.
When you tell others, be careful not to demonize your stalker. You only need to let others know about them, not tell them how terrible they are. Unless something dangerous has already happened, demonizing them can only help to escalate the situation with others.
In addition to your circle of friends, consider talking to a group like HAVEN, which can provide support, encouragement, and legal advice for someone facing a stalker or other abusive relationship.
5. **Keep a record of stalking activities.** Note exactly what happened, along with when and where it took place. Keep a record of every phone call, including the ones you don’t answer, every text, every email, and every confrontation you have. If the situation escalates, and you need to take legal action, this will be important evidence to have available.
If you are concerned that your ex has access to your computer, or other means of manipulating an online list, consider writing these events down in a journal. This can be more permanent, and less susceptible to outside tampering.
Texts, emails, and phone calls are not evidence of stalking by themselves. While you can prove that the email came from your ex’s address, that doesn’t mean that they sent it. You should still hold on to these, as they can be helpful evidence when building a case for a restraining order.
6. ** Get a restraining order** A restraining order is a court order that prevents a stalker or other abuser from coming into contact with you. Go to your local courthouse and fill out a petition for a restraining order.
You will need to include an affidavit that explains what your stalker has been doing. This is where your record of his actions can be helpful.
Since this is a legal document, you may want to consult a lawyer when filing the order. Of course, lawyers can be expensive, so you can also reach out to a domestic violence hotline, or other staff members in the courthouse about your options.
Of course, a restraining order is only a legal document and not a guarantee. It can make it easier to arrest and prosecute, but won’t actually stop them from stalking you. You will still need to be alert and prepared to defend yourself.
7. **Be prepared to defend yourself.** You never know if or when your stalker will put you in physical danger, so you need to be prepared. Self-defense involves keeping yourself alert and out of dangerous situations, but also being prepared to fight back if there is trouble.
Some self-defense techniques are as simple as staying alert when you walk around or having your car keys out and ready so you aren’t searching for them in the parking lot. Don't let your inattention be an opening for someone else.
Look for self-defense classes offered in your area. You can probably find them through police departments or local schools. In addition, basic training in some form of martial arts can give you the skills and confidence to defend yourself, at least long enough to escape to a safer place.
If you haven’t learned new techniques, or aren’t comfortable using them, having something like pepper spray on you is a good back-up plan.
8. **Change your daily routine.** Because they know you so well, your ex will probably be able to keep track of you by visiting the same locations you do. While this is certainly annoying, you should consider modifying your favorite places and usual routes to prevent them from easily following you.
Look for things you can easily change, like places you shop and eat, or things like the gym you go to. Try to find different ways to get to your important locations, so your stalker can’t track you along the way.
While you probably can’t change your school and work hours, it can never hurt to ask, especially if you are concerned for your safety.
If you do need to make drastic changes to your schedule, keep paper records of the financial effect this has on you. This can be good evidence for legal proceedings, and can even be the basis for financial reimbursement if the changes are serious enough.
9. **Change your passwords.** Your ex probably knows a few of your passwords to things like social media accounts and email, as well as even more sensitive information like your bank account. Don’t give them the chance to mess with these items, or use them to track your activity.
Make sure your new password is secure. The traditional advice is to make your password a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Keep your passwords in a secure place, and only enter them on secure websites.
Another way you can create a strong password is to take the first letter of each word, plus numbers and symbols, in two simple sentences. For example, the phrase "My first pet was a dog named Fido. Got him in 1993." would become the password "MfpwadnF.Ghi1993." It is long and has a mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Since it doesn't read as any word that would appear in a dictionary, it is harder for someone else to figure out. Plus, since it can refer to a sentence only you know, it should be easier for you to remember.
10. **Use anti-virus software.** There are a number of good products out there that will keep your computer secure. Make sure your computer always has an up-to-date security system. If it gives you the option to update automatically, take it.
If your ex is particularly tech-savvy, they may try to use a virus or Trojan horse application to track your movements and computer activity without getting on your actual computer. Use the anti-virus software to keep your computer clean, and get rid of anything that might be used to follow your activity.
11. **Clean up your social network.** Online social networks like Facebook are a good resource for tracking someone. Make sure you clear out your social media accounts to prevent your ex from having ways to keep tabs on you.
Update your privacy settings so that only your friends are allowed to see your posts.
After your break-up, unfriend your ex so that they cannot track you through the network. Make sure to ignore all friend requests from them. Be very careful about adding new friends, especially people who know your ex, as your ex could keep an eye on you through them.
Don’t be afraid to unfriend other mutual friends, especially if you are concerned that your ex will use them to track you. It may feel mean, but that is not important. Your safety is what comes first, and you cannot overreact to a stalker.
Don't make posts that clearly show your whereabouts or anything that would let your ex find you quickly. This means avoiding obvious landmarks like your workplace, school, street signs, or anything else that would let someone who knows you figure out where you are.
12. **Make your online materials private.** This means things like your personal calendar, which would allow a stalker to follow you and know where you are planning to be. Check privacy settings on any websites you frequent to make sure nothing is accessible to anyone you wouldn’t want to see it.
Run your name through a search engine to see what is connected to you. If you find information about yourself that you would not like publicly available, get rid of it. That may mean asking your friends to remove social media posts that tag you.
13. **Notice signs of control in your relationship.** Stalking is about control. If your partner has been trying to control you, they are more likely to continue doing so after you have broken up. Some of these signs include:
Regularly belittling you, putting you down, or discouraging your dreams and personal growth.
Trying to cut you off from your friends and family.
Getting jealous when you do something without them, especially with others.
Constantly checking up on you, wondering where you are and what you are up to.
This certainly isn’t a guarantee that you will be stalked, but it can be a warning sign that your ex might try after the break-up.
14. **Make your break up clear.** There should be no doubt in your mind that you have ended the relationship with this person. The important thing is that there can be no confusion that you do not want to see this person anymore.
While you may be tempted to let your ex down easily, you need to be firm and clear that you want to end the relationship. A potential stalker will use any potential opening as an excuse to continue following you, so don’t give one.
If you are fearful of the other person’s reaction, make sure to break up in a public place. While this generally isn’t a nice idea, you shouldn’t be alone if you are concerned for your safety. Your security comes first.
15. **Cut off contact.** This means phone calls, emails, texts, and any other forms of communication. Aside from cutting your ex off and not giving them a way to track you, it will also help you get past the relationship.
This includes social media. Delete pictures or other items of the two of you together and block your ex. This will help prevent her from stalking you, and make it easier to move on by removing the means to stalk her in response.
16. **Get back your keys.** You and your significant other probably shared keys and other items as a way to stay close. Now that you have broken up, get your keys back. You don’t want to give them any access to you or your things.
If you aren’t going to be able to get your keys back, it is a good idea to change your locks. You shouldn’t allow such easy access into your home to someone you don’t want to see anymore. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Your-Ex-Stalking-You", "language": "en"} |
How to Harvest Catnip | If you've been growing some catnip, you and your feline friends are probably really eager to harvest it. It can be a little tricky knowing exactly when homegrown catnip is ready, don't worry because we're here to help! We'll walk you through how to harvest and dry catnip so it has the best flavors!
1. **Pinch off individual leaves anytime to enjoy fresh catnip.** You can start picking leaves as soon as your catnip stems are 8 inches (20 cm) tall. Simply pinch where the leaf connects to the stem and pull it off of the plant. Catnip has a less aromatic flavor before it flowers, so it works perfect for mixing with salad greens.
Individual leaves take a long time to grow back on your plant. If you’re planning on harvesting your catnip again later in the season, you may want to cut the entire stem instead.
2. **Harvest after the plant flowers for the most intense flavor.** After the flowers bloom, the minty, grassy flavor of catnip gets more intense. The flowers start blooming at any point during the late spring through the fall, but you’ll usually see the most in the middle of the growing season.
Your kitties will love the stronger scent and flavor of catnip after it blooms. You can also make catnip tea from the aromatic leaves.
3. **Harvest stems after the morning dew dries if you plan to dry the leaves.** Any moisture on your catnip makes it tougher to dry out, which could lead to mold. Give your plants a chance to sit in the sun as the dew evaporates so the leaves are completely dry.
4. **Cut stems from the plant with a pair of garden snips.** Choose the stems that are the thickest and strongest since they’re the most mature. Find a leaf node along the stem about 4–5 in (10–13 cm) up from the base of the plant. Make your cut just above the leaf node to harvest the entire stem.
Leave the weaker stems on the plant so they have a chance to fill out and continue growing.
You can cut all of the stems off of your plant if you want to dry them in bulk and don’t want to harvest them a second time later in the season.
5. **Harvest again in the fall when stems are 8 in (20 cm) tall.** After you cut your catnip back, the stems will regrow so you can harvest them again later in the fall. Once the stems reach at least 8 inches (20 cm), snip them again right above a leaf node. At the end of the season, you can cut the entire plant back down to the ground.
Since the catnip could attract outside cats, protect your plants with chicken wire while they’re regrowing.
6. **Hang the stems in a dark room to air-dry for the best quality.** Take 4 or 5 stems and bundle them together with a rubber band or string. Find a spot in a basement or garage that’s dark and well-ventilated, and hang the stems upside-down. Leave your catnip alone for about 1–2 weeks so the leaves dry out.
Since it takes longer to dry, your catnip will be more aromatic and have a stronger flavor.
Avoid bundling more than 5 stems together since it blocks air flow and prevents your catnip from drying out properly.
7. **Dry your catnip in the oven at 150 °F (66 °C) for a faster solution.** Set your oven to 150 °F (66 °C) and let it preheat completely. Lay your catnip stems in a single layer on a rimmed baking tray and put them into your oven. Leave the oven door cracked open as the leaves dry for 10 minutes. Try crumbling a leaf in your hand, and take the tray out if it flakes apart easily. Otherwise, put the tray back in the oven for a few more minutes before checking again.
Use a spatula or tongs to move the catnip around on the tray to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
8. **Let the stems dry in the sun for up to 3 days to reduce odors.** Catnip has a slightly skunky odor, so it could stink up your home while it dries out. If you have dry sunny weather, set the stems on a baking tray and set them outside in the sun. At night, bring the stems back inside. Put the catnip back out for the next 1–3 days until the leaves are completely dried out.
If there’s strong wind or outdoor cats in your area, put an old window screen on top of the tray and weigh it down with stones to protect your catnip.
9. **Pull the leaves off of the dried stems.** After the stems dry out, the leaves will easily separate from them. Slide your fingers down the length of the stem to break all of the leaves off. Since the stems are woodier and won’t break down very well, just throw them away.
Leave the flowers on the stem and throw them away.
10. **Crush the leaves into a flaky powder.** You can either crush the leaves by hand or use a mortar and pestle to make it a little easier. Break the leaves down into consistently sized flakes so you can easily use them in cat toys or to make herbal tea.
11. **Store the dried catnip flakes in an airtight container in your fridge.** Choose a plastic container, glass jar, or resealable storage bag for the catnip. Make sure you completely seal the container so your catnip doesn’t lose any potency while you’re storing it. Keep the container in your fridge, and just scoop out as much catnip as you need whenever you want to use it.
The catnip will stay safe to use as long as it stays dry, but it starts to lose potency the longer it sits around. | en.wikihow.com | {"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Harvest-Catnip", "language": "en"} |
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