Datasets:

0x22almostEvil

/

multilingual-wikihow-qa-16k

like 9

How to Unblock Your Throat Chakra

In alternative medicine, the throat chakra is connected to self-expression and balanced emotions. If you’re struggling to speak your mind or feel anxious about communicating your thoughts, your throat chakra may be blocked. If you're looking for ways to deal with that blockage, you've come to the right place! We've created a list of simple exercises you can use to clear your throat chakra and restore self-expression. 1. **Chakras are concentrated energy centers located inside your body.** In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, chakras allow energy to flow harmoniously throughout the body. Each chakra corresponds to a specific area and aspect of mental, physical, and emotional health. If the flow of energy gets blocked, your health may be affected in negative ways. There are 7 main chakras in the human body. The throat chakra is located in your throat near your thyroid. It's believed that this chakra bridges the gap between your heart chakra (in your chest) and your crown chakra (in your head). The word "chakra" comes from the Sanskrit "cakra," meaning “wheel,” which refers to the swirling energy concentrated in each chakra’s location. 2. **Stress, trauma, and an unhealthy lifestyle can disrupt the flow of energy.** To function optimally, your chakras need to be open so energy can flow freely through your whole body. Things like anger, depression, repression, and even an unhealthy diet can cause blockages by disrupting your energy flow. Since the throat chakra is connected to self-expression and balanced emotions, repressing your anger (or any other strong emotion) and not speaking your truth can cause a blockage. 3. **By striving to communicate your emotions in a healthy way.** Focusing on self-expression is the best way to get energy flowing freely through your body. There are a lot of simple techniques you can use every day to do this! Keep reading to learn how to start unblocking and healing your throat chakra today. 4. **This calming color is associated with the throat chakra.** Working with color is one of the easiest ways to deal with a blockage. Each chakra is linked to a specific color; for the throat chakra, that color is blue. You can do simple things like wearing blue clothing and jewelry, adding blue décor to your favorite spaces, painting your walls blue, and so on. Studies show that blue can have a soothing effect, so why not give this a try? 5. **This is an easy way to “free your voice.”** Don’t worry, you don’t need to have an audience for this! The most important thing is to use your own voice (and hear yourself doing it). Feel free to read passages from a novel, recite poetry, or belt out your favorite jam in the car or shower. Singing can be particularly effective (and fun)! 6. **You can do a basic neck stretch whenever you feel tense or anxious.** Stand or sit with your spine straight and drop your chin to your chest. Slowly tilt your head to the left until your ear is as close to your left shoulder as possible. Hold this stretch for 30-60 seconds. Then, move your chin back to your chest and repeat the same stretch on the right side. Keep going until your neck and shoulder muscles relax. This is a gentle stretch that anyone can do! If you feel any pain, though, stop the stretch immediately. 7. **Affirmations are easy to do and only take a few minutes.** If you have a busy schedule, finding a few spare moments can be tough. Luckily, this affirmation activity only takes 2 minutes (or less) and you can do it anytime! For example, repeat your daily affirmations as soon as you wake up, when you're in the shower, during lunch, or right before bed at night. Feel free to branch out, but here are a few affirmations to get you started: I can and will stay true to myself. I can express myself with ease. When I speak, my words are clear and powerful. The world will benefit from my unique voice. My thoughts and feelings are valid. 8. **Free writing exercises help to connect your body and mind.** The throat chakra is located between your head and body. In theory, you can clear a blockage between those two points by connecting them. Set aside 15-20 minutes for this writing exercise. Then, pick a topic to write about and let your thoughts spill out onto the paper! Don’t worry about grammar, spelling, or punctuation; let the words flow. If you need a few writing prompts to get started, try asking yourself: What do I fear most? Have my fears changed over the years? What parts of my day cause the most stress, frustration, or sadness? Could I change any of them? Which emotions are the hardest ones for me to deal with? 9. **This simple breath exercise may soothe anxiety and stimulate the throat.** Find a comfortable place to sit, making sure your head, neck, and torso are in alignment. Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose. Then, open your mouth, stick your tongue out as far you can, and exhale hard (and audibly) through your mouth. Don’t be shy—let out a roar and release your inner lion! Imagine all of your anxiety and frustration leaving your body as you exhale. Yes, you might feel a bit silly doing this, but give it a try. Yogis have been doing it for thousands of years—they must be getting something out of it! 10. **Blue lace agate, turquoise, and lapis lazuli are linked to the throat chakra.** Blue stones are thought to have healing properties that can help you deal with blockages. Grab a few blue stones, lie down on your back, and put the stones directly on top of your throat. Then, just relax for a few minutes and imagine healing energy flowing from the stones into your throat. That’s it! If it helps, imagine a gentle warmth surrounding your throat area. You can save this activity for days when you’re struggling to communicate or do it every day—whatever you prefer. Crystals are really complex and unique. Take your time to get to know your crystal and to work through it. You can also take special classes to help you connect with the crystal spirits or elemental spirits. 11. **The one-syllable sound “HAM” is associated with the throat chakra.** Each chakra is linked to a specific one-syllable sound. In theory, chanting the syllable creates vibrations that heal the related chakra. Find a comfortable place to sit and take a deep breath in through your nose. Then, as you exhale, let the word “HAM” roll out in one long syllable. Use a natural tone of voice and stop when you get to the end of your exhalation. Breathe in through your nose and repeat. You can do this as many times as you’d like! This chant is called a “bija mantra.” Mantras are ancient “sound tools” used to tap into currents of energy. 12. **Legs-up-the-wall is an easy pose associated with the throat chakra.** To do it, place a blanket or yoga mat on the floor right next to a wall. Face the wall, lie down on the mat, and lift your legs straight up in the air. Then, scoot your butt up a few inches from the wall and rest your legs against the wall, keeping your tailbone on the floor. Then, just relax and take slow, deep breaths. Hold the pose for 2-3 minutes. You can also do: Cat-cow pose Fish pose Plow pose 13. **There are several essential oils associated with the throat chakra.** Put these essential oils in a diffuser, dilute them with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and apply them to your skin, or add a few drops to a warm bath. Never inhale EOs straight from the bottle or apply undiluted oils on your skin, though! They're really concentrated so they can irritate your skin, eyes, and nasal passages. Here are a few essential oils thought to stimulate the throat chakra: Frankincense Geranium Jasmine Sage Peppermint Clove 14. **All you need is a quiet place and 5 minutes to do this exercise.** Go ahead and set a timer. Then, close your eyes, sit in a comfy spot, and take slow, deep breaths until you feel yourself relax. Envision a light blue ball of light glowing in the center of your throat. Imagine the ball expanding until light encircles your head and heart. Invite feelings of safety and love into your throat, head, and heart. Think to yourself: “I am capable of communicating my thoughts and feelings.” Keep taking slow, deep breaths for the duration of the exercise. You can do this exercise every day if you’d like!

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Unblock-Your-Throat-Chakra", "language": "en"}

How to Use a Hammer Safely

A hammer is an easy-to-use, effective tool for all kinds of projects. However, when using a hammer, it is important that you take the necessary safety precautions and use the tool correctly so you don’t injure yourself or others. Ensure you have the right hammer for your job, and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes. With a bit of preparation and attention to detail, you can easily use a hammer without injuring yourself. 1. **Inspect the hammer before using it to ensure it’s in good condition.** Do not use a hammer if it is rusty, the wood is splintering, or if the head is loose. Using a hammer that is not in good working order can result in injuries. For example, if the head of the hammer is loose, it can fly off when swinging it. If you can, use a screwdriver to tighten the nails. If not, you may have to replace the hammer. If the wood is splintered, the hammer can break upon impact. 2. **Clean the hammer before you get started if it is dirty.** If you notice dirt, oil, or debris on the hammer while you inspect it, be sure to wipe it down with a clean cloth. If there is oil or debris left on your hammer, it may slip out of your hands when using it. Avoid using water, as this can cause the hammer to rust. 3. **Wear safety eyewear to protect against flying items.** You could injure or lose your eye if a nail or other flying object hits it. When you put on the safety glasses, make sure your entire eye area is covered and the strap is tightly secured. 4. **Stay focused on what you’re doing at all times to prevent injury.** If you are distracted or daydreaming while working, you can wind up hurting yourself by mistake. Stay present as you work, and keep your attention on the hammer. This way, you are less likely to have an accident. If you daydream while working, you could wind up hitting your fingers instead of the nails. 5. **Look behind you before you swing the hammer to avoid injuries.** If you swing the hammer without double-checking first, you can injure yourself or others passing by. Before you start banging away, take a glance over your shoulder to ensure no one is behind you and that there are no overhanging items. For instance, look behind you to ensure there are no wires hanging from above that your hammer could catch. Without peeking behind you, you may accidentally hit someone while getting ready to swing the hammer. 6. **Grip the hammer by the end of the handle.** Wrap your fingers around the handle so your thumb sits on top of the shaft. This way, you can have the most control over your hammer. Positioning your thumb on top helps you control the amount of force used to drive your item. 7. **Hold the hammer tightly so it doesn’t slip out of your hands.** If your grip is loose, the hammer may go flying as you swing it, which could injure yourself or the object you’re working on. Squeeze the handle firmly as you use it so the hammer stays in place. 8. **Line up the hammer and item before swinging for an accurate strike.** To prevent hitting your fingers by mistake, line the head of the hammer up to the item before you make your first swing. Doing this helps you focus your aim, ensuring a straight, solid strike. After you line up the hammer and the item, strike it with even force. For example, hold the nail up to the wall and bring the tip of the hammer over top of the head of the nail. 9. **Start with a light blow before increasing your power.** If you are hammering a nail into a wall or a board, hold the nail to the surface, and gently tap the nail with the hammer until it stays in place. Use light, consistent force as you do this so the nail goes in straight and secure. After the nail is in place, you can use moderate, even force to drive the nail the rest of the way in. After the nail sets, you can move your hand out of the way so it doesn’t get whacked. This way, you can avoid injuring your fingers or using too much force. 10. **Swing the hammer with your entire arm.** If you aren't driving a nail into the wall, grip your hammer from the end, ensure you have a tight hold, and bring your arm above your head. Swing the hammer with moderate, consistent force using both your arm and elbow. For instance, do this if you are breaking down drywall or working on a car part. 11. **Use a claw hammer to pound in nails.** A claw hammer is the most traditional hammer type. It features a metal head, and it typically has a wooden handle. One side of the hammer is used to drive nails into wood, and the claw end of the hammer is used to remove nails. Use this to attach planks, hang artwork, or do other craftsman jobs. The claw section of the hammer is the back, pronged part. If you need to remove a nail, hold the hammer upside down, align the claw with the nail, and pull up with moderate pressure. As you do this, be mindful of flying objects. Claw hammers come in many different shapes, sizes, and weights. Some also come in solid metal varieties. 12. **Go for a mallet if doing handwork or assembling furniture parts.** Mallets are a good option if you are working with lightweight items you don’t want to damage with excessive force. Choose from wood mallets or rubber mallets. Wooden mallets are used to chisel wood or work on the fine detail of woodworking projects. Rubber mallets work well to deliver a strong blow without much bounce-back, which makes it great for working on furniture. The larger the mallet, the greater the swinging power. For example, use a small rubber mallet to hammer in tent stakes while camping. If you need to strike a hard object like a wrench or hammer, use a rubber or wooden mallet to do this. If you use another metal item to strike a metal object, it can result in injury. 13. **Select a ball peen hammer for driving a chisel or punch.** The ball peen hammer is typically made from solid metal, and it has a rounded top great for pounding metals. Use these to shape metals such as rivets or to reach into small spaces. This hammer is commonly used by metalworkers. For example, if you are trying to reinforce a deck and can’t fit your claw hammer into the crevice, try using a ball peen hammer instead. It has a smaller profile, making it great for hard-to-reach areas. 14. **Try using a sledgehammer if you are working on a demolition site.** Sledgehammers are commonly used for knocking over assemblies or tearing down drywall. They often have a long, wooden handle and a heavy metal head. The head of the sledgehammer is cylindrical and even on both sides. Sledgehammers are some of the heaviest hammer types, weighing about 11 lbs (5 kg), so use extra caution when swinging these varieties. 15. **Opt for a body mechanic’s hammer if working on automobiles.** This hammer has a small, curved anvil often called the “dolly,” which is made of metal and attached to a wooden handle. Use this hammer type to remove dents from car panels, for example. This hammer type is only used for auto work. Do not use this hammer to drive a nail, or you could injure yourself.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Hammer-Safely", "language": "en"}

How to Make Koeksisters

Koeksisters are tasty doughnuts drenched in syrup that are popular in South Africa. There are two versions of this yummy dessert, and where one is a sweet braided doughnut, the other is a spiced cake ball covered in coconut. Both versions are delicious and fun to make, and they both make an excellent dessert for your family and friends. 1. **Make the syrup.** The night before you plan to make your koeksisters, make a batch of syrup. This gives the syrup time to chill, and the hot doughnuts will be dipped into the cold syrup to get them crispy and shiny. Bring the water, sugar, and cream of tartar to a boil over medium heat in a small saucepan. Stir constantly so the sugar doesn’t burn. When the mixture comes to a boil, add the lemon juice. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon and dried ginger to the syrup at this point if you want to add a bit of spice. After simmering, remove the syrup from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then divide the syrup into two separate bowls and chill overnight in the fridge. 2. **Combine the dry ingredients with the butter.** Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Sifting will remove clumps and make the batter smooth. Add the butter to the flour and use the tips of your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the butter has been distributed throughout. You want to distribute the butter in the flour as evenly as possible. The texture will become slightly crumbly. 3. **Add the egg and water to form a dough.** Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it together with the water until incorporated. Then pour the egg into the flour and stir with a spoon to combine all the ingredients. Continue stirring until everything comes together as a ball of dough. Then knead the dough until it becomes smooth and soft. Cover the bowl with a piece of plastic wrap or a damp towel and set it aside for an hour to rest. 4. **Heat the oil.** Heat the oil over medium heat in a deep fryer or in a deep frying pan. For the best results, you want about three to four inches (seven to 10 cm) of oil. Place a pea-sized ball of dough into the oil. When the piece of dough begins to cook and sizzle, the oil is ready. If you have a candy thermometer, heat the oil to about 340 F (171 C). 5. **Roll out the dough.** Turn the dough out onto a flat and lightly oiled surface. Grease a rolling pin with a bit of oil and roll out the dough into a large rectangle that’s about a quarter-inch (6.3 mm) thick. Cut the dough into long thin strips that are about an inch (2.5 cm) wide and six inches (15 cm) long. 6. **Braid the dough.** Take three strips of dough and pinch them all together at one end. Then braid the three pieces together. When you get to the end of the dough, pinch all three ends together to seal them. To braid the dough, lay the three strips out side by side. Take the left strip and lay it over the middle strip, so that the two switch positions. Then take the right strip and lay it over the middle strip. Go back to the left strip and lay it over the middle again. Repeat until you reach the end of the strips. Repeat this process with all the dough strips until you have assembled all the koeksisters. This recipe will make about a dozen doughnuts. If you have any strips of dough left, you can cut them in half lengthwise to make smaller koeksisters, or fry single strips of dough. 7. **Fry the doughnuts in small batches.** Place a few doughnuts into the hot oil and let them cook for about three to five minutes, until they are golden brown. When they are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel for a few seconds to allow the excess oil to drain off. When the first batch of doughnuts is cooking in the oil, remove one of the bowls of syrup from the fridge and place the entire bowl into a larger bowl filled with ice. Keep the other bowl chilling in the fridge. 8. **Dip the doughnuts into the cold syrup.** After a few seconds on the paper towel, dunk the doughnuts immediately into the bowl of syrup. Allow the doughnuts to soak in the syrup for a minute or two. Remove the koeksisters from the syrup with a slotted spoon, allowing the excess syrup to drain off back into the bowl. Transfer the syrupy doughnuts to a wire rack to cool. When the bowl of syrup becomes warm from the hot doughnuts, return it to the fridge and start using the second chilled batch. Place the fresh batch into a bowl of ice as well. 9. **Cool before serving.** Allow the koeksisters to cool to room temperature before serving. If you have extra syrup left over, transfer it to small serving bowls for dunking the doughnuts into. 10. **Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately.** In a large bowl, sift together the flours, spices, sugar, salt, and yeast. In a different small bowl, whisk together the butter and hot water to melt the butter. When the butter has melted, whisk in the milk. 11. **Combine all the wet and dry ingredients.** Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it briefly. Add the egg, oil, and butter and milk to the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon to mix all the ingredients together. Continue mixing until the ingredients come together to form a smooth dough. If mixing with the spoon becomes difficult, knead the dough with your hands instead. 12. **Leave the mixture to rise.** Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and place it somewhere warm to rise for one to two hours. It’s important to cover the dough so that it doesn’t dry out. A good warm place for the dough to rise is an oven that’s turned off, but with the oven light turned on. 13. **Roll out the dough.** When the dough is ready, cover your hands with a layer of oil and turn the dough out onto a flat surface. Roll the dough out with your hands into a long cylinder that’s two inches (5 cm) thick. Cut the dough cylinder into smaller pieces that are one to two inches (2.5 to five cm) long. Arrange the dough pieces on two baking sheets and leave them to rise for another 30 to 40 minutes. 14. **Make the syrup.** While the dough is rising for the second time, prepare the syrup. The doughnuts will be fried and then dunked into the syrup right away, so it needs to be ready for when the doughnuts are fried. Combine the sugar, water, and spices in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sugar from burning. When it comes to a boil, lower the heat and continue simmering and stirring until the syrup becomes thick. Lower the heat again and keep the syrup warm over low heat until the doughnuts are ready. 15. **Stretch and fry the dough.** Fill a deep fryer or deep frying pan with oil and heat it over medium–high heat. Drop a pea-sized piece of dough into the oil. When it begins to cook and sizzle, you know the oil is ready. Take a piece of dough and stretch it out slightly to get an oval shape. Repeat with every dough piece before frying. Drop a couple oval dough pieces into the oil, but don’t crowd them. Fry the dough until the koeksisters become golden brown, about one to two minutes. 16. **Dip the doughnuts in the syrup.** Remove the doughnuts from the oil one at a time using a slotted spoon. Place them on a paper towel to remove some of the excess oil. Poke a few holes in each doughnut with a fork. Transfer the doughnuts to the warm syrup and roll them around to coat all sides. 17. **Roll in coconut before serving.** When the doughnuts are drenched in syrup, remove them one at a time with the slotted spoon. Allow the excess syrup to drain off over the saucepan. Roll each doughnut in the shredded coconut to coat them completely. Transfer them to a serving plate and enjoy!

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Koeksisters", "language": "en"}

How to Stay Awake at Least 24 Hours Straight

It is very important to get enough sleep. In the short-term, not getting enough sleep can cause many problems, like decreased mental functions and mood swings. Sometimes, however, it's necessary to pull an all-nighter to finish work that needs to get done. It is difficult but not impossible. You can improve your chances of success by planning ahead of time, keeping yourself energized, and staying alert. Afterwards, you’ll want to make sure you catch up on lost sleep. 1. **Don’t get too comfortable.** If you are staying awake longer than normal, you’ll have to resist the temptation to sleep. Stay out of bed, don’t wear pajamas, and avoid anything else that is part of your sleep routine. Keep the temperature warm enough or cool enough that you are slightly uncomfortable, and more likely to stay awake. 2. **Keep your environment well-lit.** Your body’s basic sleep cycle is tied to light during the day and dark at night. This means that dim lights can make you sleepy, especially if you are staying up beyond your usual bed time. Bright lights, however, can increase alertness. Keep lamps and other sources of light on when you are trying to stay awake. 3. **Keep company.** Staying awake in company can be easier than trying to do it alone. Talking, studying, listening to music, and taking breaks with others can be stimulating and help the time pass by. 4. **Set alarms.** An alarm clock can be a good back-up when you are trying to stay awake, especially if you have to do it alone. Try setting an alarm (or several) for regular intervals, such as every half-hour. That way, if you accidentally fall asleep, it won’t be for very long. 5. **Mix up your activities.** If you are staying awake while getting work or chores done, try switching tasks every now and then. The change will provide some mental stimulation, especially if you move locations (from room to room, or from indoors to outdoors, for instance). 6. **Have a good snack.** Certain foods, like protein-rich snacks and vegetables, can be great choices when you are trying to stay awake. Stay away from sugary snacks and candies, however. While these may give you a brief burst of energy, they can be followed by a “crash” that will make you tired. Better choices include proteins and complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly, giving you a steady energy release. Good choices include: Peanut butter on crackers or celery Yogurt Nuts Fresh fruit Celery and carrot sticks Whole grains 7. **Drink plenty of water.** If you are dehydrated, it can make you feel fatigued. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and during times when you know you will have to stay awake. 8. **Don’t overuse caffeine.** Drinks that contain caffeine (such as coffee, tea, and some sodas) can give you energy and alertness in the short run, so when you are feeling tired, these can be good options to get re-energized. However, caffeine’s effects may last only a few hours, and leave you feeling even more tired afterwards. A safe amount of caffeine for adults is 400 mg per day (about four cups of brewed coffee); for children and adolescents, 100 mg per day (about one cup of brewed coffee). When trying to stay awake, have no more than this so that you don't become jittery and suffer from a severe "crash." Wait until you really need it to have some caffeine, and avoid it during the day beforehand. This will help to maximize its effects and minimize the “crash.” Green tea may be a better option than coffee, as it has less caffeine, and is high in antioxidants that are good for your overall health. 9. **Avoid alcoholic drinks.** Alcohol is a depressant and will make you sleepy. It can also impair your ability to make judgements. When you're trying to stay awake, just avoid all alcohol so that you will remain as alert as possible. 10. **Exercise ahead of time.** Exercise has a stimulating effect, and can help you stay awake. The effects of exercise can also last several hours. When you know that you will need to stay awake for a long period, try some vigorous physical activity ahead of the time when you think you will start to feel tired. You can also try brief exercises while staying awake. A few jumping jacks or pushups every now and then, for instance, can help reinvigorate you. 11. **Take a walk.** A short walk increases your oxygen intake to your brain and muscles, giving you energy and helping you stay awake. The effects of walking can last for several hours, so try taking a 10 minute walk every two hours when you want to stay awake. You can reap these benefits whether you walk indoors or outdoors. 12. **Try some breathing exercises.** Getting plenty of oxygen contributes to physical energy and mental alertness. If you are trying to stay awake, periodically try one of these breathing exercises for a boost: Sit up straight. Put one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Inhale deeply through your nose. You should feel the hand on your belly raise, but the hand on your chest should not move. Breathe out slowly, with your mouth barely open. Use your hand on your belly to push air out, if you want. Repeat this exercise ten times. Quickly inhale and exhale through your nose (about three breaths a second), keeping your mouth closed. Then breathe normally. Repeat this process for fifteen seconds or more. 13. **Plan ahead.** If you know you will need to stay awake for a long period, make sure to get plenty of rest beforehand. The best plan is to sleep very well the night before, but even a short nap before having to stay awake can help. 14. **Rest your eyes.** If you are staying up so that you can work at a computer or other in another situation where you concentrate on something for long periods, make sure to give your eyes a break. Every twenty minutes or so, set aside a minute to look away from the screen to rest your eyes. This helps you retain your focus and resist fatigue. 15. **Take a short nap.** A brief nap can actually increase your energy and alertness when you are trying to stay awake. However, you should only nap for 5-25 minutes, and you should not take more than one nap a day. Make sure to set an alarm clock—or several—so that you will wake up from your nap. You may also feel groggy when you first wake up from your nap, so give yourself some time to get back to normal. If you can’t fall asleep, even closing your eyes and resting for 10 minutes can reinvigorate you. 16. **Repay your sleep debt afterwards.** Even if you plan well ahead of time, staying awake for 24 hours or more will leave you feeling very fatigued. However, some research shows that you can make up for a lack of sleep by sleeping more afterwards. The day or night after you stay awake for a long period, give yourself the opportunity to sleep longer than usual. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep a night.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stay-Awake-at-Least-24-Hours-Straight", "language": "en"}

How to Homestead Your Home

By declaring a piece of property to be your 'homestead,' you may be able to protect some or all of your equity in the property from creditors. This may protect you from having to sell your home in case of bankruptcy. As far as the federal government and many states are concerned, your primary residence is automatically considered to be your homestead. However, a few states require that you create a legal document called a homestead declaration in order to make this designation official for a piece of property. If you are looking for information on growing your own food, living off the grid, and creating a self-sustaining living environment, visit How to Homestead. 1. **Evaluate your state’s homesteading laws.** Federal law allows you to exempt certain assets from bankruptcy proceedings so that creditors cannot claim these exempted assets. However, your right to use this law depends on the laws of your state. If a state has implemented its own homesteading exemption, you will probably be required to follow the state’s law, and you may not be eligible to claim the federal homesteading exemption. In other states, you may choose between claiming the state or federal exemption. As of the most recent adjustment in 2013, the federal homestead exemption is $22,975. 2. **Determine whether your property can be declared as a homestead.** Each person may only declare one homestead. You must be the owner of the property you want to declare as your homestead and it must be your principal residence. You also must have owned the property for at least 1,215 days prior to the bankruptcy filing. In certain states, such as California, homestead exemptions apply only to "real property." This means you won't be able to declare your houseboat or motor-home a homestead under these states' homesteading laws, even if it is your principal residence. However, some states, such as Wyoming, do allow the exemption to be applied to trailers. 3. **Consider properties other than your own home.** Some states will allow you to claim a homestead exemption for a property in which you do not reside if you can prove that you are the "head of the household." A "head of household” is a person who provides the majority of financial support those living in the home. Providing support for a close family relative, such as a disabled sibling or an aging parent, may allow you to declare a homestead exemption for that relative’s home instead of your own. However, you can only declare one property as a homestead; you cannot have two homesteads at once. 4. **Purchase or download a homestead declaration form.** Only five states require you to file a homestead declaration form. States generally do not offer a standard form, so you may create your own, purchase one online, or have an attorney create one for you. Generally you must file the form in your county recorder’s office for it to be official. Montana does not offer a standard declaration form, but it does provide sample documents. Nevada requires a homestead declaration form to be filed, but provides a generous exemption of $550,000 (relative to other states). In Texas, you only need to file a homestead declaration to protect a property larger than a certain size, which varies based on location and family status. In Vermont, resident homeowners are required to refile a homestead declaration each year. Virginia is one of the most restrictive states when it comes to homestead exemptions. You must file a declaration, and the exemption is limited to a maximum of $10,000. 5. **Draw up the document or complete the form.** In most cases, you will need to include your name, address of the homestead, and the Assessor's Parcel Number (APN) for your property. You may also need to describe the property, your interest in it (how the title is held), and who is living there. The APN is the number that county assessors use to identify and catalog your property. You should be able to find the APN on the deed of your home. You can also get it from the local office that records deeds or the tax assessor’s office. You can find the full legal description of your property on your deed. This includes the street address as well as the dimensions and exact boundaries of the property. Have the form notarized. Your county may or may not require this step. A notary will substantiate your declaration by confirming that you are who you say you are. 6. **File the homestead application at your county recorder's office.** You may have to pay a nominal fee to file the form. You don't need to have a lawyer present, but you may find it useful to hire an attorney to guide you through the process. You should receive a stamped copy of the document indicating that it has been recorded. 7. **Evaluate your circumstances.** A homestead declaration or exemption will protect you in some situations, but not others. For example, it will not protect your equity in your home against foreclosure. However, you may be protected from other kinds of liens or other financial claims even if you have not declared bankruptcy. Homesteading may also not protect you from paying for legal judgments concerning child or spousal support. In Oregon, for example, a court may choose to decline a homestead exemption in order to fulfill child support payments. A legal homestead will only protect the amount of equity that you own. For example, if you purchased a house for $90,000 and you owe $40,000, the homestead claim will only cover the $50,000 equity. This is the amount that you have paid on your mortgage. The exemption limit varies widely from state to state. In California, for instance, a single person who is not disabled qualifies for an exemption of up to $75,000; if the person is 65 or older, or physically or mentally disabled, the limit is increased to $175,000. 8. **Consult an attorney.** Declaring a homestead exemption is not complicated, but the legal circumstances that could trigger its use, such as bankruptcy and divorce, are very complex. As a result, consider consulting an attorney under these circumstances. At the very least, you should understand the important legal terms related to the homesteading process, including encumbrances, judgment liens, home equity, and exemptions. An encumbrance is a monetary claim that someone else has filed against your property: it keeps you from transferring property, and it may restrict your use of the space. In real estate, you might encounter encumbrances like an outstanding mortgage or unpaid property taxes. A judgment lien on real property is created when someone sues you and wins a money settlement against you. The lien is recorded with the county recorder's office nearest your home. A judgment lien helps the judgment creditor–the person who won the suit–collect his money from you. If you sell your house, that lien will get paid from any available equity. Home equity is the actual value of your house after you account for all liens and encumbrances. To calculate it, subtract the total of liens and encumbrances from the market value of the house. For example, if your home has a market value of $400,000, but you owe $300,000 on the house, the home equity equals $100,000. The equity in a house can change. As home values increase, equity increases. As home values decrease, equity decreases. If home values stay constant, equity still increases if you are paying down the mortgage. 9. **Avoid unintentionally voiding your homestead declaration.** Your homestead exemption and its advantages last until you effectively abandon the homestead. It is common to abandon an old homestead when you declare another home your new homestead. Renting your home to someone else can also destroy your property’s homestead status. For example, in Florida, renting a home for more than 30 days in 2 consecutive years constitutes “abandonment” of the homestead.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Homestead-Your-Home", "language": "en"}

How to Close a Yelp Account

This wikiHow teaches you how to close your personal Yelp account, which will remove any reviews and photos that you have posted, as well as how to remove your business' moderator account from Yelp. Keep in mind that you cannot delete an account from the Yelp mobile app, nor can you delete your business' page from Yelp. 1. **Log into Yelp.** If you aren't logged into your Yelp account, go to https://www.yelp.com/ in your computer's web browser, and click , then enter your email address and password or select your preferred method of logging in (e.g., Facebook). 2. **Delete any reviews or images you want removed immediately.** When you close your Yelp account, Yelp will eventually remove your content, but this could take a while. If there are reviews or images you want removed immediately, delete them yourself before closing your account. To delete reviews: Click your , click in the drop-down menu, click the tab, and click next to a review. To delete photos: Go to the business page for which you posted the photo, select the photo in question, click , and click . 3. **Open the Yelp Account Closure page.** Go to https://www.yelp.com/support/contact/account_closure/ in your web browser. This will open an online form. 4. **Enter a reason for deleting your account.** Type a message (or even just one letter) into the text box below the "Closing your user account" heading. 5. **Click Send.** It's a red button below the text box. Doing so will send your reason to Yelp; Yelp will then send a confirmation email to your email address. This is the email address that you used to sign up for Yelp. If you signed up for Yelp through Facebook or Google, it's the email address that you use to log into Facebook or Google, respectively. 6. **Open your Yelp email account.** Go to the inbox of the email address which you used to sign up for Yelp. You should have an email from Yelp here. If you use Gmail, the Yelp email will appear in the tab. The email may take a few minutes to arrive, but you should also check your or folder if you can't find the email. 7. **Open the email from Yelp.** Click the "Yelp Account Closure Confirmation Request" email from Yelp to do so. 8. **Click the confirmation link.** It's the link near the bottom of the email, just above the "Thank you" signature. Doing so takes you to the confirmation page. 9. **Click Close Account.** This red button is at the top of the page. Clicking it officially closes your Yelp account. 10. **Wait for your content to be deleted.** Once you confirm that you want to close your account, your data will begin to be deleted. This process does not happen all at once, but over the next week or so all of your photos and reviews will be deleted from Yelp. 11. **Understand the limitations.** You can relinquish control of your Yelp business account, but you cannot remove your business listing from Yelp. The only way that Yelp business owners have gotten listings removed is through lawsuits against Yelp. 12. **Visit the business account closure page.** Go to http://www.yelp.com/support/contact/business_unclaim/ in your web browser. This is the only way that you can delete your business' moderator account. 13. **Enter your business' details.** Type your business' name into the "Business Name" text field, then type the business' city into the "Near" text field. 14. **Find your business.** Click to the right of the business information fields, then scroll through the results until you find your business' page. 15. **Click Select this business.** It's a red button to the right of your business. 16. **Fill out the unclaiming request form.** Enter any information you want Yelp to have into the "Additional information" text box, then type your business account's email address into the "Your Email Address" text field. Make sure that you use the email address that you used to sign up for Yelp. 17. **Check the "I'm not a robot" box.** This box is near the bottom of the page. You may be prompted to play a minigame to prove that you aren't a robot before proceeding. 18. **Click Send.** It's a red button at the bottom of the page. This will send your form to Yelp. 19. **Wait to be contacted.** Yelp will send a confirmation email to you before removing your access to the business account. This is to prevent someone from removing your access without your permission. 20. **Confirm that you want to remove your account access.** Open the email from Yelp when you receive it, then click the link in the email and follow any additional prompts to delete your account. Remember, you cannot remove your business listing from Yelp.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Close-a-Yelp-Account", "language": "en"}

How to Prepare for a Hysterectomy

Any time you undergo major surgery, such as a hysterectomy, it is very important to be prepared. First and foremost, it is essential to learn about what to expect both during and after your surgery. After that, it is a good idea to begin taking steps one month prior to your surgery (or more), and to continue your preparation in stages leading up to your procedure. It is important for you to try to be in the best health possible, to make some practical arrangements at home, and to do some last-minute preparations on the day before your surgery. 1. **Figure out what type of hysterectomy you'll be having.** Depending on the reasons for the hysterectomy, different parts of the reproductive system will be removed. The term "hysterectomy" is an umbrella term for all of these procedures, so it is important to understand which type of operation will be happening to you. A supracervical or subtotal hysterectomy involves the removal of the upper part of the uterus only, while the cervix stays in place. A total hysterectomy involves the removal of the whole uterus and cervix. A radical hysterectomy involves the removal of the whole uterus, tissue on the sides of the uterus, the cervix, and the top part of the vagina. This is typically only done when cancer is present. Your hysterectomy may or may not involve removal of the ovaries (a procedure called "oophorectomy"). 2. **Understand the differences between "open surgery" and "MIP" hysterectomies.** An open surgery, or abdominal hysterectomy, is the most common type, comprising 65% of procedures. This method involves a 5–7 inch abdominal incision, through which the appropriate organs are removed. An MIP hysterectomy (or minimally invasive procedure) may be vaginal (where an incision is made inside the vagina, through which the organs are removed — known as a transvaginal hysterectomy) or laparoscopic (which is a surgery done using a laparoscope, through one or more small tiny incisions, often through the belly button). Sometimes MIP hysterectomies will be a combination of vaginal/laparoscopic techniques. An open surgery hysterectomy usually results in a three-day hospital stay. MIP hysterectomies generally involve reduced hospital stays, quicker recovery times, less scarring, and a lowered risk of infection. An MIP hysterectomy results in a three to four week recovery period to resume full activity, compared to a five to six week recovery with an abdominal procedure. Not all women will be suited for an MIP hysterectomy. Factors such as scar tissue, obesity, and health status can all affect whether or not an MIP is good choice for you. 3. **Learn about the risks associated with hysterectomy.** A hysterectomy is considered a "moderate risk" procedure. Fortunately, most women who have this surgery experience no complications; however, as with any medical procedure, some complications do occur for a small percentage of women. It is important to educate yourself on what could happen, even though the risk is small. Some complications include: Urinary incontinence Vaginal prolapse Fistula formation Chronic pain Blood clots Infection Frequent urination Heavy bleeding (hemorrhage) Early menopause Complications due to general anesthesia 4. **Find out what to expect after your hysterectomy.** The most common physical result of a hysterectomy is the early onset of menopause. If your ovaries will be removed during the procedure, you will experience the onset of menopause right away. If your ovaries will remain, you will still likely experience menopause at an earlier age than you would have otherwise. Additionally, after your hysterectomy, you will be advised to abstain from sexual activity or heavy lifting for a minimum of six weeks. On the bright side, after the recommended recovery period, most women report an immediate relief from reproductive pain, problems, and discomfort. 5. **Gather additional information.** Before your surgery, gather enough information to feel comfortable about the surgery. Generate a list of questions for your doctor, and talk to them until you feel all of your concerns have been answered. You may want to discuss any medications or hormone therapy you'll need, the effects of this surgery on your sex life, the best ways to accomplish a full recovery, and any other elements that you just aren't sure about or don't understand completely. 6. **Quit smoking** Individuals who smoke have been shown to have a much more difficult time recovering from surgery. Take this as a great opportunity to stop smoking for good. Even if you do not want to stop smoking indefinitely, the American College of Surgeons has determined that quitting four weeks prior to your surgery, and staying smoke-free for four weeks afterward has been shown to decrease your rate of wound complications by 50%. Choose a "quit date" and mark it on your calendar. Let you friends and family know about your "quit date." Discuss your decision to quit with your physician for support and possible prescription therapies. Discard any cigarettes, ashtrays, etc. from your home, office, and car. Purchase some "oral replacements," such as gum, candy, and/or toothpicks. Decide if you will use some form of nicotine replacement (gum, patch, etc.). Seek out a support system, such as class to quit smoking, Nicotine Anonymous, or a family member who has successfully quit smoking. 7. **Lose weight** As with smoking, patients who are very overweight have been shown to have more difficulty with recovery. This is the time to take control of your health and come out of your surgery feeling strong. If you are overweight, talk to your doctor about healthy ways to trim down before your surgery. Start focusing on eating healthy foods, above restricting unhealthy foods. Try to make sure you are getting 5 serving of vegetables each day. Work on burning more calories — try to get active! This may simply be taking a walk around the block, riding a bike in your neighborhood, or putting on some music and dancing up a sweat. Follow these methods for one week and see if you have experienced any weight loss. If you have not, begin reducing your caloric intake by 100–200 calories per day, by cutting out food with processed sugar or white flour. Dropping just 5 to 10 lbs. prior to your surgery can have very positive effects on your recovery. 8. **Get plenty of rest.** You will want to be well-rested before you head into surgery. Improve your health and reduce your stress by aiming for eight hours of sleep per night for the month leading up to your surgery. If you feel like taking an additional nap during the day, go right ahead. 9. **Eat a balanced diet.** This month is all about getting into the best possible shape so that you tackle your recovery with strength and well being. Regardless of your current weight, this includes eating a well-balanced diet of veggies, fruit, lean proteins, and whole grains. If this is new to you, you want to talk to your doctor for support. Try to consume five servings of vegetables per day (like bell peppers, cauliflower, or green beans). If you are having trouble fitting all those servings in, try making a smoothie with frozen fruit and spinach or broccoli. You'll be surprised how good it will taste! Focus on eating whole grains (like brown rice, quinoa, oats, or millet) instead of processed flour foods (like pasta, white bread, or tortillas). Simply boil your grains in water, broth, milk, tomato sauce, or almost any other liquid. Avoid foods with processed sugar, like soft drinks and dessert items. 10. **Plan to take time off work.** Another great way to prepare is to make appropriate arrangements at work. You will want to make sure everything is squared away, so that you can take some time to rest and recover, without worry. Speak to the people you work with and take any necessary steps to prepare for your absence. 11. **Follow your doctor’s instructions for medication.** Depending on which medications you take regularly (if any), your doctor may advise you to change dosages or even refrain from certain meds in the days leading up to your surgery. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions with regard to medication. 12. **Drink plenty of fluids.** As you head into the week of your surgery, make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids (particularly water). This will help prevent constipation, which can be a side effect of surgery. Try to consume at least 8 glasses of water per day. 13. **Fill your post-op prescriptions.** Ask your doctor to provide you with any prescriptions you will need after the surgery, and get these filled ahead of time. This makes them available for you as soon as you’re done with your surgery, and it is one less thing to worry about during your recovery. 14. **Make arrangements for transportation.** Your ability to drive will be curtailed for one to two weeks after your surgery or longer in some cases. Make arrangements for a ride home from the hospital, as well as any place you may need to travel during your recovery. 15. **Prepare some meals ahead of time.** A few days before you head into surgery, it is a great idea to head to the grocery store, stock your pantry, and do a bit a food prep for yourself. You may consider preparing some freezer meals. This way, you’ll be able to nourish yourself and stay healthy without a great deal of effort. 16. **Pack your overnight bag.** You are going to want to bring a few items with you to the hospital. Pack your toothbrush, hairbrush, comb, shampoo, and deodorant, as well as an easy-to-wear change of clothes for the trip home. Bring sanitary supplies. Pack a robe and some slip-on slippers. Bring some entertainment, like books, a tablet, or a laptop. Also remember to bring your charger for your electronic items. Bring eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures if needed. 17. **Eat light.** Eating healthy is always important, but avoiding heavy, greasy, unhealthy foods for a day or so leading into your surgery is especially helpful. This can minimize any digestive problems associated with anesthesia, and help your recovery go well. 18. **Gather your medical information.** You will want to gather up any medical records, insurance information, a list of any medications you are taking, and your personal identification. If you have had any pre-op screenings or blood tests, you may want to bring the results of those with you as well. 19. **Follow your doctor’s instructions for food, drink, and bowel preparation.** In most instances, you cannot have solid foods or liquids after 12:00am, the night before surgery. It is also possible for your doctor to prescribe a “bowel cleansing oral solution.” It is crucial for you to follow your doctor’s instructions when it comes to these pre-surgery preparations. 20. **Remove all jewelry.** You should not be wearing any jewelry when you undergo surgery, so go ahead and remove any while you are still at home. If you have a piece of jewelry that you cannot remove (such as a wedding ring that has been on for many years), speak to you doctor before cutting the jewelry or taking other drastic measures.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Prepare-for-a-Hysterectomy", "language": "en"}

How to Make a Hawaiian Pizza

If you are looking for a way to dress up your plain cheese pizza, consider transforming it into a salty-sweet Hawaiian pizza. It has a unique flavor combination that incorporates sweet pineapple slices and salty chunks of ham with traditional pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. But don’t limit yourself to the standard recipe. Have fun personalizing your Hawaiian pizza by sprinkling on additional ingredients like sliced Vidalia onions or spicy jalapenos. To get started making this tasty meal, grab some pizza dough and a pizza pan. 1. **Preheat your oven to 450 °F (232 °C) before you begin making your pizza.** Remove any baking pans from inside of your oven before you preheat it. Then, make sure to place the oven rack on the center rung in your oven. This will help the pizza cook evenly, and prevent the dough from burning. 2. **Coat a 12 in (30 cm) round pizza pan with 1 ⁄2 US tbsp (22 mL) of olive oil.** Use your fingers or a pastry brush to spread the oil across the inside of the pizza pan. The oil will keep the dough from sticking to the pan and will give the bottom of the pizza added flavor. If you do not have a round pizza pan, use a rectangular baking sheet instead. Simply coat the baking sheet with the olive oil as you would the pizza pan. 3. **Sprinkle 1 tbsp (9 g) of flour onto the oil coated pizza pan.** Use your fingers to disperse the flour across the pizza pan until it is completely dusted. If needed, use additional flour to finish coating the pan. The flour will help the finished pizza slide off the pan easily and will season the bottom of the pizza. 4. **Roll out 1 lb (0.45 kg) of store-bought pizza dough on your countertop.** Dust your clean countertop with flour to keep the dough from sticking to the surface. Then, use a rolling pin dusted with flour to roll out the pizza dough. Work from the center of the dough outward. Continue to work the dough until it roughly forms the shape and size of your pan. Purchase store-bought pizza dough in the frozen or refrigerated section of your local grocery store or a local pizzeria. If you are feeling extra adventurous, consider making homemade pizza dough instead of using the store-bought dough. 5. **Lift the rolled out pizza dough and place it onto the prepared pizza pan.** Use your fingers to gently pull and spread the dough to the edges of your pan if needed. Roll any extra dough along the edges inward to form a thicker crust for the pizza. The pizza will have an approximate diameter of 12 in (30 cm). If you are using a rectangular baking sheet, spread the dough to the edges as you would the round pizza pan. This will make an approximate 10 by 15 in (25 by 38 cm) rectangular pizza. 6. **Spread 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of olive oil across the dough to season it.** Use your fingers or a pastry brush to smear the olive oil on the surface of the dough. Add more olive oil if needed to coat all of the dough. The olive oil will keep the dough moist and season it. 7. **Spoon ⁄2 cup (120 mL) of jarred marinara sauce onto the pizza dough.** Use the back of the spoon to gently spread the sauce across the surface of the pizza dough. Keep the sauce about ⁄4 in (0.64 cm) away from the edge of the dough. This will keep the sauce from bubbling over the edges and burning on the pan as the pizza cooks. Continue to spread the sauce until it is evenly distributed. Instead of using jarred sauce, consider making a homemade pizza sauce. 8. **Sprinkle 2 cups (200 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese onto the pizza sauce.** Use your hands to sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly across the top of the pizza sauce. Break up any large clumps of cheese with your fingers as needed. Just be careful not to push or disturb the sauce underneath the cheese. Alternatively, consider transforming the taste of your Hawaiian pizza by using other types of cheese that will complement the mozzarella. Use 1 cup (100 g) of shredded mozzarella and 1 cup (100 g) of shredded Swiss or a cheddar cheese to give the pizza a sharp flavor Use 1 1/2 cups (150 g) of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup (50 g) of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to give the pizza a tangy flavor. 9. **Add 4 oz (110 g) of thickly sliced ham on top of the cheese.** Choose your favorite brand of deli ham to use for your pizza. Use a knife or kitchen scissors to cut the ham as needed to create 1 in (2.5 cm) squares. Then, disperse the ham evenly across the cheese layer. Use chunks of ham for a meatier taste or use thick slices of ham for a more mild flavor. Alter the overall flavor of the pizza by using a smoked ham or Canadian bacon. 10. **Scatter 1 cup (165 g) of canned pineapple chunks on top of the cheese layer.** Use your hand to hold the pineapple inside the opened can, and drain the pineapple juice. Disperse the pineapple across the pizza, paying specific attention to filling the empty areas around the ham. If desired, cut the pineapple chunks in half or in quarters using a sharp knife or a pair of kitchen scissors. This will better disperse the pineapple and will be easier to bite into. 11. **Personalize the Hawaiian pizza by adding on your favorite pizza ingredients.** Identify 1-2 additional ingredients to put onto your pizza that will transform or elevate the existing flavors. Refrain from adding more than 1-2 extra ingredients, as to avoid having the crust buckle from the weight when you go to eat it. Finely chop a scallion onion and sprinkle it on top of the pizza for a mild onion flavor. Cut a sweet Vidalia onion into thin slices. Steam them with a little water in a bowl for 1 minute in the microwave. Add the softened onion on top of the pizza for a bold onion flavor that will contrast the sweetness of the pineapple. Give your pizza some spicy notes by adding 1-2 tbsp (5.6 g) of diced jalapenos, or large dices of red bell peppers. Dice up a handful of mushrooms to give your pizza an earthy taste. 12. **Cook the pizza in the oven at 450 °F (232 °C) for 8-12 minutes.** Slide the pizza pan onto the middle rack in your preheated oven. Cook the pizza for 8-12 minutes or until the crust is a light golden-brown color and the cheese is melted. Allow the pizza to cook for additional 1-minute intervals if needed to further crisp the crust and melt the cheese. 13. **Remove the cooked pizza from the oven and transfer it onto a cutting board.** Use potholders to take the pizza pan out of the oven. Then, use a heat-resistant spatula to lift the edge of the pizza from the pan, and slide it onto the cutting board. Place your hot pizza pan on top of your stove and allow it to cool off before attempting to clean it. Use potholders at all times when handling the hot pizza pan. Otherwise, you may seriously burn yourself. 14. **Allow the pizza to rest for 4-5 minutes so the cheese can settle and firm.** Refrain from cutting the pizza until the cheese has cooled. Cutting into the pizza while the cheese is soupy will cause it and the toppings to slide off your pizza. 15. **Cut the rested pizza into 6-8 slices and serve them to your friends and family.** Use a pizza wheel or a large, sharp knife to cut the pizza into 6-8 slices. Work from one end of the crust to the other. Refrain from using a sawing motion if you are using a knife, as this will pull the cheese and toppings away from the crust. Season your slice of pizza with table salt, ground black pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste. Wrap any leftovers in aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for about a week.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Hawaiian-Pizza", "language": "en"}

How to Mark a Baseball Scorecard

Keeping score at a baseball game can be a great way to stay involved in the game and keep track of everything that happens. It is also a useful skill to have if you are a coach, player, or parent of a child on a baseball team, as it allows you to keep better track of stats, trends, and the performance of your team’s players. Keeping score can feel really awkward and complicated at first, mainly because there are so many abbreviations that you’ll have to learn. But once you get used to the symbols, keeping score is a breeze, and it can be a ton of fun too! 1. **Purchase scorecards in bulk or print them out online.** If you’re going to keep score for your child’s or friend’s team, you’re going to need a lot of scorecards. Find a design that looks clean and easy to understand and order them in bulk from a sports equipment store or online shop. You can also print a bunch of free templates out if you prefer. This way, you’ll always use the same design. You don’t need to worry about different sheets being radically different—baseball scorecards are universal in terms of the information that they contain, even if the design is a little different. The differences between different sheets are pretty minor. If you’re keeping score at the ballpark to enjoy a professional or minor league game, ask an usher for a scorecard. They typically give them out for free or sell them for cheap. 2. **Use an offical roster to fill in the batting lineup on the left.** You use one scorecard per lineup. The column on the left labeled “player” is where you will list the batting lineup, with the first batter at the top and the ninth batter at the bottom. Each row has an extra line underneath it in case a player is replaced mid-game. If you don’t know the player’s names, you can use their jersey numbers instead. If you’re scoring little league games where there are lots of substitutions, find a scorecard with 3 or 4 lines per player. You only track 1 team’s performance on a single scorecard. If you want to score both teams, use 2 separate cards. There are some scorecards that are double-sided so that you can track both teams on one sheet. There is usually a column on the left of a player’s name for their jersey number. The “Pos” column on the right is shorthand for “position” so that you can enter the player’s fielding position. There is often an extra row at the bottom for a tenth player in case your team uses a pinch hitter or your screw up on a row. Some scorekeepers use this row to take notes. 3. **Identify the inning columns at the top.** Look at the row above the diamonds that are printed all over the page. You will see the numbers 1-9 listed above each column. These represent the total number of innings in a game of baseball. Every time that your team comes up to bat in a new inning, you’ll move to the next column to indicate that it is a new inning. You work from the top to the bottom to indicate which batter is hitting. You work left to right to indicate when things happen in the game. This means that you won’t use every single box on a scorecard unless your team has 9 at-bats every single inning. If your team bats around the lineup, cross out the innings at the top and re-label them. There are usually 2-3 extra columns for this purpose. They can also be used for extra innings if the game is tied at the end. For example, the box in the top left indicates the first batter’s at-bat in the first inning. The box all the way at the end of the row would indicate the first batter’s at-bat in the last inning of the game. 4. **Track your team’s pitchers at the bottom of the card.** There are a few rows listed at the bottom under “pitchers” or “pitcher” where you list each individual pitcher’s name for your team. Some cards have 2 sets of rows for pitchers. This is so that you can track the effectiveness of the other team’s pitchers. 5. **List the general information at the top before the game starts.** List your team, the umpire’s name, the date, and the opponent’s team in the general boxes at the top. Fill in the spot where you indicate whether your team is home or away. If your team is home, that means they’re playing on their regular field. If they’re away, it means that they’ve travelled to play on another team’s field. A team at home is generally considered to have a slight advantage in a given matchup. Fill in any other boxes, like time, field, or league if you want. This information isn’t always essential, but if your league has time limits it may be important. Start the time as soon as the first pitch is thrown. 6. **Fill in your team’s batting lineup from top to bottom.** If you’re keeping score for a high school or little league team, ask the head coach for a copy of the lineup before the game starts. Write each player’s name down on the top line in their row. Include their position and jersey number if you have immediate access to that information. If you don’t, you can fill it in as your team makes it through its first rotation at the plate. Remember to skip a line (or 2) for each player so that there is one name in each row of baseball diamonds. When a player is substituted in, write their name, number, and position below the player that they went in for and draw a vertical line in between the baseball diamonds in the inning that it happened. If there is a pitching change, draw a horizontal line in the diamonds between the last batter of the old pitcher and the first batter of the new pitcher. Write the new pitcher's name in the next row at the bottom in the “pitcher” section. 7. **Fill in any extra information on the right side of the scorecard.** On some scorecards, there are extra rows or columns on the right side of the page for you to list your name, the temperature, the direction of the sun, or other environmental factors. There may also be a section for taking notes or making observations in this area. 8. **Fill in bubbles or boxes in the top left for each strike or ball.** Every pitch is tracked in the individual boxes at the top of each diamond. There are 5 boxes that are aligned in 2 rows to indicate 3 balls and 2 strikes. During an at-bat, every time that an opposing pitcher throws a strike, shade in a box in the row with 2 boxes. Every time that pitcher throws a ball, fill in a box in the row with 3 boxes. There is no fourth box for balls because the at-bat is over if they throw 4 balls. This is also why there is no third box for strikes. If the pitcher throws a strikeout, write a big K in the middle of the diamond. If the batter didn’t swing and took the third strike “looking,” write a backwards K. If a pitcher throws 4 balls and walks the batter, write BB. If they hit a batter, write HBP to indicate that they were hit by a pitch. 9. **Draw where a ball was hit by illustrating it on the diamond.** Every time that a hitter hits the ball and successfully reaches a base, you can draw the location and type of hit on the diamond. To do this, draw a jagged line for a ground ball, a loopy line for a pop-up or fly out, and a straight line for a line drive. Some scorekeepers like to do this so that they can visually represent where a batter hit the ball. You do not have to do this if you don’t want to. It is completely optional, but the information is really helpful if you’re trying to track a hitter’s tendencies. 10. **Mark each base that a runner reaches by darkening the path on the diamond.** To show that a runner made it to first base, use your pencil or pen to darken the line on the diamond going from home plate to first base. Darken each individual base path that the runner uses, but do not include a base if they get thrown out. For example, if a player hits a single, darken the line from home to first base. If they steal second base successfully, darken the line from first to second. If they get thrown out trying to reach home plate after a single, leave the final 2 base paths blank, since they did not reach them successfully. Some scorekeepers indicate stolen bases with a broken line instead of a solid line. You can write SB, PO, or CS above a base path; these abbreviations stand for stolen base, pick-off, or caught stealing. 11. **Write the outcome of an at-bat in each box.** You can write the outcome in the middle of the diamond or in some open space next to the diamond. If they get a hit, write the abbreviation for the base that they reached after making contact. If they were thrown out, grounded out, or flew out, list each player that touched the ball and separate them by hyphens. Put the type of play in front of the numbers. The abbreviations for hits are 1B, 2B, 3B, and HR; these abbreviations stand for single, double, triple, and home run. The abbreviations for outs are F, LO, or GO; these stand for flyout, line out, or ground out. Some scorekeepers also use PO for pop out. DP stands for double play. For example, if a player flies out to left field, you would simply write F7 in the diamond (or next to it) to indicate that the batter flied out and the left fielder caught the ball. If the first baseman caught a ground ball and touched first base for the out, you would write GO3. A more complicated play may read DP3-6-1. This means that the defense scored a double play when the first baseman fielded the ball and threw it to the shortstop. The pitcher went to go cover first base and then caught the throw from the shortstop for the final out. 12. **Shade in the entire diamond whenever a player scores.** If a player scores, fill in the final line along the base path from third to home. Then, shade in the center of the diamond by holding your pen or pencil at an angle. Use back-and-forth lines to fill in the negative space and indicate that a player scored. If you’re making your play notations outside of the diamond, you can fill in the diamond fully so that it’s dark. If you’re writing the play in the diamond, keep it light so that you can still read the original notation. 13. **Mark errors with an E to show when a player screwed up.** Errors refer to mistakes that a player makes which result in an opposing player safely reaching a base when they normally wouldn’t have. Place your E next to the player that caused the hitter to reach the next base. For example, E7 means that the left fielder either dropped the ball or threw it over a player’s head. For a play with an error later in the sequence of the play, put the E next to the player that made the mistake. For example, 4-6-E3 means that the second baseman threw it to the shortstop. The shortstop then threw the ball to the first basemen who proceeded to miss or drop the ball. You don’t include the type of hit on an error because it’s irrelevant; it doesn’t count as a hit for the batter, and it doesn’t count as a hit for the pitcher. It is a separate category of play. It’s up to you who you want to blame on certain plays with unique mistakes. If the shortstop fields a ground ball and throws in the dirt in front of the first baseman, is it the first baseman’s fault that he missed a tough throw, or is it the shortstop’s fault for making a bad throw? This can be scored E6 or 6-E3 based on your assessment of the play. 14. **Use FC to indicate a fielder’s choice.** A fielder’s choice refers to any play where a base runner safely reached a base on a play where another base runner was called out. It’s important to mark fielder’s choices because they don’t count as hits but they explain how base runners advanced or reached a base. Mark a fielder’s choice with FC. For example, if there is a runner on first base, and the player hits a ground ball to the shortstop, there is a fielder’s choice if the shortstop throws the runner out at second but the batter reaches first base safely. Similarly, if the shortstop ignored the first runner and threw the hitter out at first, this would also be a fielder’s choice. If a player intentionally bunted or hit a fly ball to move a baserunner, it doesn’t count as a fielder’s choice. Write SAC to indicate that a player hit a sacrifice bunt or fly ball. 15. **Track pitcher information using hashmarks.** Unless you’re using the opposite side or a second scorecard, there is no way to track a pitcher’s performance every inning. There are only columns and rows to list a pitcher’s overall performance. To make it easy to track a pitcher’s performance every inning, most scorekeepers use small, vertical hashmarks to track hits, earned runs, strike outs, and walks. There are other columns for balks, wins, saves, and innings pitched, but the key information that you need for a single game performance are the number of runs, strikes outs, and walks. These will tell you what a pitcher’s overall performance was like. 16. **Use a scorecard to pay attention to the game and enjoy it more.** Keeping score forces you to pay attention to every single pitch, hit, and play. Since you need to record everything except foul balls, keeping score will tune you into what is happening. For a lot of fans, this makes the game more enjoyable, and the experience of completing a scorecard can be just as satisfying as watching the game. If you just enjoy the act of keeping score, don’t feel like you have to hold on to your scorecard after the game is over. If you like keeping score and you have a child or friend in little league, ask the coach if he’d like access to your scorecards. The coach will be able to use them, and this may free up an assistant coach to do something else. 17. **Add an exclamation point or asterisk if you want to note great plays.** If you’re using a scorecard to track a team that you’re coaching, mark each play that deserves additional discussion or praise with an exclamation point or asterisk. You can also use the marks to indicate mistakes that you want to address in practice. You’ll be able to easily look back over the course of the game and remember which specific play needs to be discussed. This is a great way to track game balls or MVP awards for your players. 18. **Compile the statistics for each batter at the end of the game.** On most scorecards, there are some smaller columns on the right side of the card for you to list the number of singles, doubles, triples, walks, home runs, strikeouts, and walks that a player completed over the course of a game. Store your scorecards for each game to make it easy to calculate total statistics at the end of a season. 19. **Use the scorecards to identify trends in player behavior over time.** Scorecards will also show you how a player is performing over time. If they’re hitting a lot of ground balls, you can work with that player on getting under the ball. If they’re striking out a lot, you can work with them on identifying good pitches. If you see a player hitting a lot of fielder’s choices, stick them either at the top or bottom of your lineup. Fielder’s choices can turn into double plays quite easily, so you don’t want them in the middle of your lineup when the number of base runners is usually high. If a player is particularly good at bunting or hitting sacrifice fly balls, bat them fifth or sixth. This will give them more chances to bring runners in.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Mark-a-Baseball-Scorecard", "language": "en"}

How to Stop Thinking About Your Ex

Having a relationship end can be a painful experience, particularly when your thoughts continually drift back to your ex. Whether your relationship just ended or you're still struggling to get past the hurt months later, you may feel that these constant thoughts are preventing you from moving on. However, a 2018 study suggests reframing your ex negatively, accepting your feelings, and distracting yourself from painful feelings can all be effective ways to eventually stop thinking about your ex and move on from the relationship. By following the right techniques, you can accept that the relationship is over and finally stop thinking about your ex. 1. **Grieve** The ending of a relationship can often feel similar to the death of a loved one. It's okay to mourn this loss. Painful emotions cannot simply be swept under the rug. In fact, you will find it much easier to move past your hurt if you confront your emotions without judgement. Trying to suppress your thoughts will only make them stronger. You may even begin to dream about your ex if you don't allow yourself to experience your thoughts and emotions. Cry if you want. It feels better when you let all that out, instead of keeping it bottled up inside you forever. 2. **Talk with someone you trust.** Sometimes you just need someone to listen rather than offer advice. Even if you cannot understand why it happened, talking about it can help you accept that the relationship is over. If you don't feel comfortable talking to a loved one about the breakup, consider seeing a therapist or joining an online support group. It might also help to have an imaginary conversation with your ex about all of your pent-up grievances. This will allow you to talk through all of your feelings without actually having to have contact with your ex, and may help you find closure. 3. **Let go of anger** If you're obsessing about the terrible things you ex did to you, you will never be able to move on! No matter how angry you are, it's important to stop ruminating on these negative thoughts. When dealing with recurring thoughts, it's helpful to confront them head-on. Think about why you are having the thought, how the thought may be distorted or untrue, and what kind of negative effect the thought is having on you in the moment. The more you acknowledge your ruminations, the easier it will be to let go of them. 4. **Be honest with yourself** After a breakup, people are often dishonest with themselves about the quality of the relationship or the reasons why it ended. It's important to carefully consider how happy you really were in the relationship and what caused the breakup. This will allow you to move past idealizing what might not have been a great relationship in the first place. It will also help to ask yourself what your role was in causing the breakup, as this might help you let go of some anger. 5. **Get the help you need.** A breakup can have seriously negative effects on your mental and physical well-being, especially if you find that you're still dwelling on it months later. Breakups have been associated with weakened immune systems and an increased risk of illness. People who have not gotten over a breakup within 16 weeks can even experience physical changes in their brains that reduce their motivation, concentration, and emotions. It is critical to get professional help before your physical health begins to suffer. A therapist can help by listening to you, encouraging you to confront your feelings, and teaching you new ways to do with your pain. 6. **Remind yourself to let go.** There are a variety of behavioral techniques you can try to stop obsessive thoughts about your ex. All of these techniques rely on your ability to recognize when a thought about your ex enters your mind and to take a specific action to stop that thought from coming back. Remember that these techniques are to be used for obsessive thoughts only! If you have not yet dealt with your feelings and taken the time to grieve, you should not try to suppress your thoughts. You can try wearing a rubber band around your wrist and snapping it each time you think about your ex. You can write down the thoughts you are having about your ex on a piece of paper and then throw it away. You can try a visualization exercise, which requires you to visualize a specific scene whenever a thought of your ex occurs to you. For example, you could think of a stop sign in order to remind yourself that you need to stop what you are doing. If you do this consistently, the association should become automatic. 7. **Avoid contact with your ex.** Even if you think you want to be friends with your ex, it's important to give yourself some time away from him or her. You must fully heal before you can begin spending time with your ex again. If you don't allow for any healing time, you may continue to think of your ex as your partner because your bond as a couple will not have been broken. Take a moment to think about why you want to be friends. If it's because you're scared about living your life without your ex, you may be using it as a way to avoid dealing with the grief of the breakup. Most people do not end up being friends with their exes. Don't feel bad if it just doesn't feel right, even after you've had your time to grieve. 8. **Get rid of shared belongings.** If you find yourself thinking about your ex whenever you look at the watch he got you for Christmas or the DVD collection you bought together, it might be time to part with these things. If you don't want to throw items away, consider donating them to charity. Remove any pictures of your ex from your house. If you lived together and you can't get rid of all of your shared belongings, it might help to revitalize your space with some new energy by changing the paint color or reorganizing the furniture. This will help it feel like your own place instead of the place you shared with your ex. 9. **Avoid checking up on your ex** You will never be able to stop thinking about your ex if you are getting status updates about him or her on your phone all the time. Even if things did not end with animosity, it may be a good idea to unfriend your ex on social media. Similarly, it's a good idea to stop driving past your ex's house on your way to work or asking your mutual friends about how your ex is doing. 10. **Alter your daily routine.** People often develop a routine with their significant others, and following the same routine after you break up can emphasize feelings of loneliness and trigger thoughts about them. Create a new routine all your own. Instead of making your signature Saturday breakfast, try taking a walk and trying out a new cafe. 11. **Be social** Surrounding yourself with friends and loved ones will help keep your mind on all of the positive aspects of your life, and off of your ex. It's also important to commit yourself to the hobbies and activities that you most enjoy, especially if your ex kept you from pursuing them. If your social life revolved around your ex, it's important to get out there and make new friends. Try joining clubs or participating in volunteer activities to meet new people. If you relied on your ex for emotional support, try relying on someone other than a romantic partner for this kind of support, like a best friend or a sibling. You might be surprised to discover just how much support you really have! Staying busy really will help you move on faster. If you find yourself thinking obsessively about your ex when you are at home alone, come up with something to do, whether it's having dinner with a friend, visiting a museum by yourself, or going for a walk. 12. **Think about your future.** You may have planned a future with your ex, and if you did, it's understandable that everything might feel uncertain now. Try to focus on the positives by reminding yourself of all of the great things you can and will accomplish in the future without your ex. Try to enjoy your present-day life as well. Even though you may want to be in a relationship, there are lots of benefits to being single too, so try to enjoy it while it lasts. 13. **Focus on taking care of yourself.** In order to boost your mood, it's important to practice healthy habits. Make sure you exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep. Committing yourself to a healthy lifestyle will not only make you feel good, but it may just offer you the escape you need from thoughts about your ex. Meditating might help you regain your positivity and let go of the stress associated with your breakup. 14. **Find new love** There's no golden rule for when you should start dating again after a breakup, so do whatever you feel is right for you. Avoid jumping into a new relationship just because you don't want to be alone, but don't be afraid to put yourself out there either! Some people struggle with continuing to think about their exes even though they are in new, healthy relationships. If this is the case for you, it will do no good to simply try to suppress those thoughts. Instead, actively replace the thought with a memory of a time when you felt a lot of love for your current partner. Love is a strong emotion that can help you resist the temptation to contact your ex.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Thinking-About-Your-Ex", "language": "en"}

How to Forget a Friend Who Meant a Lot to You

Not all friendships will last forever. In fact, friendships may end for a variety of reasons. Despite the rationale for severing ties, losing a friend can be a painful process. Fortunately, there are several ways to move forward with your life after you’ve lost someone who once meant a lot to you. 1. **Do not play the blame game.** Assigning blame is unhealthy and breeds anger. While both you and your former friend may have been at fault for the dissolution of your friendship, you are not in control of the each other’s thoughts, feelings, choices, or actions. Understanding that both you and your friend have roles to play in the ending of your friendship is important and will help you to consider the potential reasons for the end of your friendship from both your point of view and from the point of view of your former friend. 2. **Work through your negative emotions.** Be aware that you may feel anger, guilt, sadness, or grief over the loss of your friendship. This is completely normal. It is important to process and work through these feelings on your own or with the help of a licensed mental health professional. You might work through your emotions by: Writing about your feelings Talking about your feelings Making art about your feelings Channeling your feelings into something else 3. **Allow yourself to go through your emotional process.** You may feel a range of emotions when faced with a loss. It is important to allow yourself to process these feelings and understanding where these emotions come from. Think about whether there's anything in your past that this might be bringing up for you that could be impacting how you feel. 4. **Ask yourself why you feel the way you do over the loss of your friendship.** Do you miss the person? Do you miss the support that your former friend had given to you? Do you miss the activities that you used to do as friends? Understanding why you feel the way you do is the first step in coming to terms with your emotions. 5. **Let yourself feel as deeply as you need to.** Do not try to block out the negative or painful emotions that accompany the dissolution of your friendship. Temporarily sitting with the pain or negativity will eventually allow you to move beyond those feelings and heal. However, avoid dwelling on these feelings for an extended period of time. While you should acknowledge and confront your emotions, feeling down on yourself and mulling over these emotions for months on end will only drag you down. 6. **Understand that healing takes time.** In order to heal from this loss and move forward, you must be patient. Rushing through your natural process is unhealthy and will not resolve your negative feelings properly. Recognize that you may have trouble letting your guard down around new people, initially. This is fine. 7. **Acknowledge that people change and grow.** You are not the same person that you were when you met your friend, nor are they the same person they were when they met you. Over time, everyone’s interests change and those changes can cause distance and disagreements between friends. Understanding that this is a normal fact of life might help you better accept the end of your friendship. Think about who you were when you met your former friend. Think about who your former friend was when you met. Think about the reasons you became friends with this person. Think about who you are now. How have you changed during the time you were friends? Think about who your former friend is now. How has s/he changed? Write down the significant changes you and your friend experienced in a list form from the time you met until your friendship ended. Read over your lists and understand that change, while at times imperceptible without scrutiny, is inevitable. You and your former friend have both changed and it is possible that you are no longer compatible as friends as a result. Understanding and accepting this fact without placing blame will help you move on. 8. **Accept that your friendship has ended.** While acceptance can be difficult, it is an important step in moving forward with your life. Moreover, accepting the situation means that you have made peace with it and are no longer tormenting yourself with what-ifs, details of the dissolution that cannot be changed, or negative emotions. View your friendship as a learning experience for future friendships. Note what worked, what didn’t, and how you want to select friends and form relationships moving forward. 9. **Focus on the things over which you have control.** If you focus on the actions of others, you’ll dwell on what-ifs and moments that cannot be changed. Instead, try to spend your time and energy on your personal actions. Moreover, focusing on your choices and actions will help you to live in the present, rather than focusing on the past. Examples of personal actions and choices you can focus upon include: Acknowledging and working through your emotions Acting with kindness and generosity toward others, including your former friend Deciding to spend time with your other friends and family members Working to move forward with your life 10. **Cut off all contact with your friend.** This will allow you to gain distance from the person, which will enable you to refocus time and energy that you previously would have given to your friend. Better still, when you stop interacting with your friend, you are less likely to think about them as well. Finally, in ceasing all contact with your former friend, you are ensuring that no negative interactions between the two of you come to fruition. You might consider cutting off contact with your former friend by: Blocking their phone number Ignoring and/or deleting emails Not returning text messages Unfriending or blocking them on social media Avoiding them in face-to-face situations 11. **Engage in an activity to distract yourself from your loss.** You might decide to go shopping, to go see a movie, or to go for a walk if you are looking for a short-term distraction. If you think you’ll need a longer activity, you might consider taking up a hobby or donating your time to help others. Regardless of what you decide to do, it is important to fill your time in some way in order to positively channel your energy and emotions. Activities you might enjoy include, but are not limited to: Dancing Making music Reading Exercising Playing a sport Undertaking an art project Volunteering your time at a charity organization Mentoring someone else. 12. **Learn how to be your own friend.** Being your own friend means learning about yourself and accepting yourself for who you are. Practice self-compassion by speaking kindly to yourself and finding solo activities that make you feel confident and empowered. For example, you might enjoy writing or hiking by yourself. Set some personal goals and make a plan for achieving them. Make sure these goals are something personally meaningful, not a way of getting attention from your former friend or making them jealous. 13. **Spend time caring for yourself.** You need time to process the dissolution of your friendship. While you are processing your loss, you need to make sure that you are caring for yourself. Make sure that you are eating properly, getting enough rest, working through your emotions in a healthy manner, and not isolating yourself. Remember that sometimes you need to put yourself first. You can improve your well-being by: Seeking out the company of friends and family when you are lonely Eating healthy foods in appropriate quantities Getting adequate exercise Spending time alone in order to recharge and relax Sleeping regularly at night Investing your time in activities you enjoy 14. **Confide in a trustworthy friend or family member.** Keeping your feelings bottled up will hurt you in the long run. This doesn’t mean that you should reestablish communication with your former friend, but certainly you should talk about your feelings with someone you know, love, and trust. Your friend or family member can offer you support and love through the act of listening. While they are not a replacement for your former friend, your friend or family member can diminish the impact of your loss. 15. **Make new friends.** Be open to finding new friendships that fit where you are in your life right now, instead of just trying to hang onto the past. Know what traits you are looking for in a friend as you are getting to know new acquaintances. You might even look for positive qualities in your former best friend in the people you are befriending. Here are some ways to make new friends: Strike up a conversation with a stranger in line at the grocery store Talk to the barista at your local coffee shop about his or her interests Go to an art or music show and talk to people there Meet people online through social networking sites Open the lines of communication between the yourself and another person Participate in mutual self-disclosing behaviors with others Invite new acquaintances to hang out with you 16. **Talk to a mental health professional if the loss feels too immense for you to process alone.** Mental health professionals are impartial listeners and it is their job to avoid making judgments. If you need to vent to someone, or if you feel that the loss of your friend has created a severe imbalance of emotions for you, please do not hesitate to seek help. You do not have to go through this loss alone. 17. **Adopt a pet.** While an animal cannot replace your former friend, you can form a new and important bond of companionship and love with an animal, which might help you reconcile the loss you have experienced. Studies have shown that owning a pet also leads to lower stress levels, better psychological health, and emotional support. All of these emotional and health benefits would certainly be a pro for someone who is dealing with the loss of a close friendship.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Forget-a-Friend-Who-Meant-a-Lot-to-You", "language": "en"}

How to Create a Good Protagonist

At the heart of every story is the protagonist. The protagonist is responsible for experiencing the events that happen throughout the story and interpreting these events in a meaningful way for the reader. Creating a successful protagonist is no easy task, but if you want to write a great story, it is essential that you first create a believable, dynamic protagonist that the reader finds relatable. 1. **Craft your story idea.** Coming up with a well-thought-out premise for your story will give you the basis upon which to develop your characters, including your protagonist. In order to know how your characters will develop, what qualities they will have, and how they might change throughout your novel, you need to have a clear idea where your story is headed. When you’re finished, you should compile your thoughts into two or three sentences that give a synopsis of your plot. As you develop your premise, ask yourself: Which character is the protagonist? What is the protagonist like at the beginning and how might that change after they face conflict throughout the story? What is the protagonist’s objective? What's their motivation? What do they want? What do they fear? What or who will stand in the way of them achieving this objective? What struggles will the protagonist face trying to accomplish their objective? What is the result of the protagonist’s actions? 2. **Get to know your characters.** You will need to know the characters in your story inside and out so that you can be consistent in their choices and reactions. This might seem daunting, but there are strategies to help you complete this task: Create a character sheet for each of your characters. Give more detail for major characters, rather than minor characters. For major characters, work backwards from the time they are first engaged in the plot, or when they face their first conflict or decision. Ask yourself: What events have led them to be involved at this point in the plot? What life experiences have shaped their reactions? Did they do something to cause this event to happen? How will they move forward? Perform an “interview” of your characters to unveil the intricate details of their life. In addition to hashing out their physical appearance, dig further into their persona by asking questions that will develop their beliefs and values. For example, ask questions like, “Do they believe in God?” and “What moments have shaped their life most significantly?” 3. **Develop characters that feel like real people.** Ultimately, you want your readers to become invested in your characters. They must be able to relate to them on a personal level. To help your readers relate, create characters that feel like real people and have qualities consistent with this idea. When you’re developing your characters, consider their backstory, physical description, and how they speak. Think about their goals, strengths, weaknesses, and fears and what qualities and quirks they have that make them unique. Know what they do and don't understand about the events in your story, their world, or life in general. Remember, no one knows everything. Make choices for your characters that are consistent with the details you’ve uncovered. For instance, their name must embody their persona. 4. **Show how your characters interact.** To make your characters believable, demonstrate their persona through their interactions with other characters. After all, we all have relationships in our lives and your characters are no different. Explain what your characters are thinking about the other characters. Don’t assume your reader already knows. Allow you characters to challenge their own thinking. For example, instead of simply stating they hate another character, have them question why they hate this person. The best characters not only relate to the world around them, but also to the other characters in the story. 5. **Make sure your protagonist undergoes a change.** A dynamic character grows and changes as a result of the story. The events of your story should have some meaning for your protagonist. Depending on your genre and story concept, the change could be minimal or dramatic. It could also be physical or emotional. Your character might learn a lesson, gain battle wounds, or realize something within themselves. How they change should make sense for your character and the story as a whole. 6. **Give your protagonist a difficult problem.** Your protagonist is the person driving your story. Their dilemma must be central to the plot and they should be the only character capable of solving this problem, or at least the character most capable of solving it. Examples of problems a protagonist might face include: Completing a mission Saving a loved one who is in trouble Answering a question about their past 7. **Give them motivation.** Your protagonist must have an internal reason to take risks and make tough decisions. Make their motivation something that every reader can relate to, like an everyday want, hope, or fear. For example, the need to be loved or accepted is a motivation to which readers can relate. Whatever is driving the protagonist should be clear to the reader. Your reader should gain a better understanding of the protagonist with each struggle they face. 8. **Make the protagonist struggle to get what they want and perhaps fail.** Your protagonist needs to be relatable to every reader so create a character who is unlikely to succeed in achieving their goal. A protagonist that is good at everything and likely to succeed is uninteresting and hard for most people to identify with. If your character gets what they want, they should strive and sacrifice to get there. It's also okay for your protagonist to fail. A great example is Frodo from The Lord of the Rings. Frodo is an unassuming hobbit who is small in stature but not in heart. His success seems unlikely, making his journey all the more interesting to the reader. 9. **Ensure the protagonist connects with the reader.** In general, your reader should feel sympathy or empathy for the protagonist. This means they can see similarities between the struggles faced by the protagonist and those they’ve experienced in their own lives. Make your protagonist somewhat flawed because real people are flawed and imperfect. Use your own connection to the protagonist to guide their quest and determine how the reader might connect to them. 10. **Ensure the protagonist is capable of making decisions.** The fate of your protagonist should be in their own hands throughout your story. This character should be the one making decisions and dealing with the consequences. Keep in mind: Your protagonist doesn’t have to choose their fate right away. Allowing them to waiver in their decisions throughout the book can create an interesting read. If they aren’t making decisions that affect their fate, they are not the protagonist, but merely a background character. 11. **Give them the capacity to change.** Though the protagonist doesn’t necessarily have to change throughout the novel, a good protagonist will be given the opportunity to do so. The protagonist can effect change in several different ways: They should wish to resolve their initial conflict in some way. The reader’s understanding of the protagonist should change. They should be given the opportunity to learn from their experiences and become a better person (though they don’t have to). 12. **Create a strong antagonist.** Your antagonist is there to create conflict and push your protagonist to question their decisions throughout your story. In the end, a strongly characterized antagonist will make your protagonist look even better when they win. Keep the following in mind when developing your antagonist: They should be the opposite of your protagonist—a mirror image. They are not necessarily a villain or someone evil. The personality embodied by the antagonist will directly relate to that of the protagonist.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Good-Protagonist", "language": "en"}

How to Resize Pictures (for Macs)

Resizing an image on your Mac is simple with Preview, a free image utility that comes pre-installed on OS X. Preview helps you crop images easily and adjust their dimensions without having to install additional software. Learn how to gain control over the size of your photos, remove unwanted areas, and adjust the resolution for various uses with Preview. 1. **Navigate to the image you wish to resize.** This method will help you change the size of the entire image. If you want to crop out a part of the image to resize, see Cropping an Image in Preview. To search for an image name or tag, open Finder, then click the magnifying glass icon in the menu bar. Type in your search criteria and press ⏎ Return to show your results. 2. **Drag the image to the Preview icon in the Dock or Finder.** This will open the image in Preview. You can also right-click the image and select “Open With” and then “Preview.” 3. **Click the edit button (a square with a pencil) to switch to Edit Mode.** This will launch a new toolbar at the top of the Preview window. 4. **Click the “Tools” menu and select “Adjust Size”.** 5. **Change the resolution.** Resolution is measured in pixels per inch (also called “dots per inch” or “dpi”). If you plan to print your image or simply want it to retain as much of its quality as possible, consider raising the resolution. If your image is for the web or for use in an app like Facebook, the default (72) is fine. If you start with a higher resolution, reducing it will give you a smaller file size. If you plan to print your image in a high-quality format, such as for advertisements or other forms of business communications, set it to at least 600. Note: this will raise the size of the file significantly. To print glossy photos, 300 will suffice. The file size will be much larger than that of a default 72 dpi image, but the final quality will be worth it. 6. **Type your desired width and height in the designated boxes.** The larger the width and height, the larger the file size. It may be helpful to change the unit of measurement to best visualize your image. For example, you can change it to “cm” if you want to specify the width in centimeters. Click the drop-down right next to both Width and Height to make your selection. If you would prefer, you can choose the size by selecting a percentage of the current size. Select “Scale,” then choose a percentage from the drop-down. 7. **Place a check next to “Scale proportionally” to avoid warping the image.** This is optional, but you can use this option to make sure that setting the width also modifies the height. This ensures that the image retains its original proportions. 8. **Click OK to view the image at its new size.** If you are dissatisfied with the changes, press ⌘ Cmd+Z to undo them. 9. **Press ⌘ Command+S to save your changes.** Once you’re done resizing the image, remember to save your work. If you want to save this newly resized image as a brand new file, Click “File,” then “Save As,” then choose a new filename. If you realize you made a mistake after saving, click “Revert To” in the File menu and select “Browse All Versions…” Choose a previous version of the image to which you would like to revert. 10. **Click the Edit icon (a square with a pencil) to enter Edit Mode.** 11. **Click the dotted rectangle icon in the editing toolbar, then select “Rectangular Selection”.** 12. **Click and drag a part of the image you want to keep.** Once you let go of the mouse button, you will see the dotted rectangle appear over a portion of the image. 13. **Click Crop button.** This will remove all parts of the image that are outside of the rectangular selection. You can resize the cropped area as you would any image. If you don’t want to save your changes, press ⌘ Cmd+Z to undo them. 14. **Press ⌘ Cmd+S to save your file.** If you want to save the cropped area as a brand new file (and keep the entire image from which you cropped it), Click “File,” then “Save As,” then choose a new filename. To revert the image to a previous version after saving, click “File,” then “Revert To,” and select “Browse All Versions…” Now, choose an older version of the image.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Resize-Pictures-(for-Macs)", "language": "en"}

How to Add and Delete Users Accounts With Command Prompt in Windows

Command Prompt, which is essentially Windows' version of Apple's "Terminal" app, allows you to enter system-altering commands. While most user commands one might enter in Command Prompt are easier to carry out by simply performing the action itself (e.g., opening a folder), you can use Command Prompt to quickly create (or delete) user accounts right from your desktop! 1. **Open your PC's Start menu.** You can do this by clicking the Start button in the bottom left corner of your screen. Please note that, in order to add or delete users, you'll need to be on an Administrator account. You can also tap the ⊞ Win button to do this. 2. **Type "Command Prompt" into your Start menu's search bar.** The Command Prompt app should appear at the top of the relevant search results. You can also hold ⊞ Win and tap X to bring up the quick-access menu with Command Prompt in it. 3. **Right-click the Command Prompt icon.** This will prompt a drop-down menu. 4. **Click "Run as administrator" in the drop-down menu.** You won't be able to access Command Prompt in Administrator mode if you're using a guest account. If you're using the quick-access menu, just click the "Command Prompt (Admin)" option. Do not use the regular Command Prompt option. 5. **Click "Yes" on the pop-up window.** This will allow you access to Command Prompt as an administrator. 6. **Click on the Command Prompt window.** This will make sure that your cursor is currently active on the Command line. 7. **Add a user account.** To do this, type net user (username) (password) /add and tap ↵ Enter when you're done. This will add a new user to your account! Replace the information in parentheses with an actual username and password; be sure to exclude the parentheses. 8. **Delete a user account.** To do this, type net user (username) /delete and tap ↵ Enter when you're done. Your selected user account should be gone! You will see a line that says "The command completed successfully" after successfully adding or removing an account. 9. **Exit Command Prompt.** Now you know how to add and delete users with the Command Prompt app!

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Add-and-Delete-Users-Accounts-With-Command-Prompt-in-Windows", "language": "en"}

How to Become a Home Inspector

If you tend to pay close attention to the details and are a stickler for the rules, pursuing a career as a home inspector should be something you consider. Becoming a home inspector can be a fulfilling career that includes travel and allows you to interact with other people on a daily basis. By getting the right education and certification and continuing to hone your skills, you can have a fulfilling career as a home inspector. 1. **Research the licensing requirements in your state.** To find licensing requirements in your state, visit The American Society of Home Inspectors website. Licensing requirements vary from state to state and can range from no experience to a high school degree, coursework, licensure, and an apprenticeship. Find the requirements for your particular state so that you have an idea of what you'll need before you can get started. Some states require you to also pass a background and criminal history check. In Texas you need to pass pre-licencing courses and complete 128 classroom hours before you can take your inspector's exam. In New York you need to pass pre-licencing courses and complete 140 classroom hours. Idaho does not require you to have a license to be a home inspector. If you live outside of the U.S., check with a relevant government agency where you live. 2. **Learn how houses are constructed.** Having knowledge about electrical wiring, plumbing, heating systems, cooling systems, and roofing is critical if you want to be a good home inspector. Construction practices have changed over time, so a house that was built decades ago will be very different to one built recently. Having detailed knowledge about how all houses are constructed will give you a better understanding of dangerous housing conditions. 3. **Take home inspection and licensing courses.** There are various organizations and educational institutions that offer home inspection courses. If you don't want to go to a physical location like a Kaplan University, you can take online courses to achieve your license. Organizations that offer online courses include Inspection Certification Associates, American Home Inspectors Training, and the American Society of Home Inspectors. 4. **Study for the home inspection exam.** The National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) offers a comprehensive list of content that will show up on your exam. Go to their website to get a copy of the outline and research each of the tops in greater detail. Make sure to study the content that will be on the test sufficiently before registering for the test. Questions on the NHIE cover safety topics including, roof drainage, exterior doors and windows, driveways, landscaping, balconies, support structures, wiring and electrical, and plumbing. The test is four hours long and has around 200 questions. 5. **Register for the National Home Inspector Examination.** The NHIE is required if you want to practice in 29 states including places like California, New York, Florida, and Texas. Register for the exam by visiting homeinspectionexam.org. Remember to check if this license is required in your state before paying for it. In most states the exam costs $225. Even if passing the exam is not required in your state you should take it anyway, as passing the test is a good indicator of whether you're ready to be a home inspector. 6. **Pass the home inspection exam and become certified.** Once you've registered for the exam online, you'll likely be given a physical location and date that you'll have to take the test. Make sure to get plenty of rest the night before the test and study leading up to it. If you fail your initial exam, you can retake the exam in 30 days if you pay another fee. 7. **Get a job at an established inspecting firm.** Look on search engines and job boards for home inspecting job opportunities. Once you have the required certification and education, and have shadowed another home inspector, apply for the job. Companies are looking for clean-cut, organized, and dependable people. Follow the guidelines for a good interview and be sure to communicate effectively and show up on time. You can also use any available networking connections and ask around to see which companies are looking for new employees. When on the interview remember to emphasize your construction, regulation, and inspection knowledge. A drawback from working for a firm is that they will typically take a 40-60% cut of your inspection fee. 8. **Start your own business** If you don't want to work at a firm and already have some experience under your belt, you can start your own business. Home inspection businesses don't have a lot of need for human capital if you're the only one that will inspect the homes. To start your own home inspection company, you'll need a reliable vehicle, a computer and a minimum of $25,000 in working capital for overhead items. Consider incorporating your business to protect yourself from bankruptcy if your company fails. A large initial cost that you'll have to invest in is business insurance. Other potential costs include marketing and advertising, tools, association dues, and office space. 9. **Purchase a home inspecting franchise.** A home inspection franchise will give you the initial tools and contacts that are required to land clients and start making money. Marketing and advertising is also usually covered in the form of logos and other promotional materials. Also, they will have methods that have been proven to be profitable in the past, as well as additional support if you're unsure what to do as a business owner. While the cost of a franchise can sometimes be costly, it may be worth the cost if you have limited experience. Initial costs, including an initial franchise fee, can cost anywhere up to $40,000 and more. Remember to read the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) before purchasing any franchise. Popular home inspection franchises that you can purchase include Ameri-Spec Inspection Services, Home Team, WIN, and A Pro. 10. **Join a home inspectors organization.** A home inspectors group will provide you a wealth of knowledge in the form of distance education and classroom training. The top organizations for home inspectors in the U.S. include the NAHI (The National Association of Home Inspectors) and the ASHI (The American Society of Home Inspectors). Both of these organizations have a significant number of members who work professionally as home inspectors. In addition to the education, you'll also be able to attend chapter meetings and workshops to talk about inspection and regulation. 11. **Get a mentor when first starting off.** Some states require you dedicate hours towards an apprenticeship before you can become a certified home inspector. Even if your state doesn't require this, shadowing and working under a seasoned home inspector will give you insight and skills on how you should inspect homes. If you're part of a home inspector association, talk to veteran inspectors and ask if you can be an apprentice under them. If you aren't in an organization contact different firms and see if there is anyone available to take you under their wing. Being an apprentice will also give you hands-on training. You can ask by saying something like, "I really respect the great work you do and all your experience. I'm looking for someone who could guide me and show me the ropes. Do you think I could work with you for a little bit?" 12. **Go for additional training and education once you're an inspector.** Look for regional meetings and seminars that you can attend to stay current and accurate. Many chapters of home inspection organizations will often put on educational events and workshops for existing inspectors. Also, you can use the time around your peers to network with other inspectors. Follow up with people that you meet at educational workshops and training by calling them on the phone or shooting them an email. In some states, like Oregon, you have to complete some continuing education classes to keep your home inspection license up to date.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Home-Inspector", "language": "en"}

How to Thin Out Seedlings

Seedlings must be thinned out to grow into healthy and strong adults. Although it can feel wrong to remove healthy plants, this prevents fungal and growth problems later on. Creating enough space between the plants lets each seedling get all of the sunlight, water, and nutrients it needs. Wait until the seedlings are 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) tall and choose a mild day to start thinning them out. Properly spaced plants will help your garden be fruitful and thriving! 1. **Thin the seedlings when they are 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) tall.** Monitor the growth of the seedlings closely. Don’t let the seedlings get too big, as more leaves will form, which can cause crowding. It's easiest to wait until the seedlings are tall enough to grasp. 2. **Look for 1-2 sets of true leaves on each seedling.** Seed leaves are replaced by true leaves as the seedlings grow. Look for leaves that match the adults, as seed leaves are more rounded and simpler than true leaves. Waiting for the true leaves to appear helps you pinpoint the healthiest seedlings to keep. 3. **Pick a mild day when the soil is damp.** Thinned seedlings have a greater survival chance if the weather is not too hot or cold. Moisten the soil with a hose or a watering can if it's too dry. It's easier to pull up roots from damp soil. 4. **Wait until the evening to give the seedlings a good chance to adjust.** Only start thinning out when the temperature is cooler. The remaining seedlings need time to adjust to the extra air and light before the increased sunlight exposure during the next day. This prevents the seedlings from getting stressed and helps them to grow into healthy adults. 5. **Locate the strongest and healthiest seedlings to keep.** Look for the seedlings that appear bright, healthy, and disease-free. Use thin wooden sticks like toothpicks or popsicle sticks to mark these seedlings. Check that there is only 1 seedling per cell or that you have followed the recommended spacing. Taller seedlings aren’t always stronger. Avoid choosing tall and spindly seedlings, as these may not become healthy adults. 6. **Aim for 1 seedling per section if they were started in cells or punnets.** Often several seedlings are started in the same place to make germination more likely. Leave only 1 seedling in each cell or punnet to give it the best chance of survival. 7. **Learn the recommended spacing for seedlings that share a plot.** Read the seed packet to find the spacing for thinning out your particular plant. Follow the recommended guidelines so that the remaining seedlings have the best chance to grow. If the spacing is too small you may need to thin out the seedlings again later. The recommended spacing varies between plants. For example, for beans it's 4 in (10 cm) and for corn it's 1–1.5 ft (30–46 cm). 8. **Pull up leafy seedlings from the ground.** Grasp firmly where the shoots meet the soil. Gently pull the seedling upwards to pull out the roots. Leafy seedlings are easy to remove with your hands. Press your fingers on the soil around each desired seedling when you remove the neighbors if you are worried about disturbing the roots. Discard the seedlings when you are done. Alternatively, you can wash the microgreens and use them in a salad! 9. **Cut the seedlings at soil level to thin root vegetables.** Use a small pair of scissors to cut the shoots off the seedlings you aren’t keeping. Do this for vegetables like beetroot, carrot, parsnip, and potato. This is because pulling up root vegetables can easily disturb neighboring plants. You can thin out any seedlings with scissors if you are worried about damaging the roots of the desired plants. However, it takes longer than simply pulling up the roots. 10. **Water the remaining seedlings to settle the soil.** Water the seedlings lightly after thinning them out using a watering case or a hose with a fine-spray nozzle. Keep the seedlings well-watered to help them grow into healthy adults!

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Thin-Out-Seedlings", "language": "en"}

How to Win a Class Election

Getting involved in school politics is a great way to boost your resume, gain leadership experience, and make an impact on how your school operates. Campaigning can be some work and be time-consuming, but functioning as a student representative can be rewarding. Preparing yourself and getting support from your peers can be difficult, but not impossible if you follow some basic steps. 1. **Ask your friends.** You should approach the people closest to you for help first. Make sure your friends, or any family members you may have at the school, know that you are running and ask them to vote for you. Also ask your friends to get their friends to vote for you. If they do, it can greatly augment the number of votes you receive. 2. **Seek out special interest groups.** Identify groups at your school who have a vested interest in one particular aspect of the school’s operations and solicit them for help. Sports teams and academic clubs are great groups to approach, since these groups utilize school resources for activities from which individual members benefit. Approach the football team to see if they need new equipment, a better playing field, or more support from the student body. As a student representative, you may be able to help them achieve these goals. Get involved in special events and fundraisers for particular causes as well. If the chess team has a fundraiser to help them travel to a tournament, your presence at the event could be reason enough for the entire chess club to vote for you. 3. **Identify important student issues.** There may be some issues that are important to the student body at large. Figure out what these issues are and take a position on them to rally support for your campaign. Maybe the student body wants more vending machines or better food in the lunchroom. Vow to address these issues as a class representative and more people will vote for you. Be careful when taking a position on divisive issues, however, as you risk alienating certain segments of the student body on particularly charged issues. 4. **Be outgoing.** Introverts are rarely selected for student government through general elections because people feel more comfortable voting for someone they know well. High school politics are often to referred to as popularity contests for a reason. As such, you need to get out there and become acquainted with your peers and classmates. Regardless of your class size, try to convince each individual to vote for you. Be friendly to everyone, including your fellow contenders. Participate in class and answer questions so that other students look up to you. 5. **Enlist faculty support.** Some schools do not allow faculty members to be involved in student elections in any way. Others require a faculty supervisor for candidates. Figure out your school’s policy and, if necessary, enlist faculty support. Approach a teacher who you know you work well with and ask him or her. 6. **Follow the rules.** Every school has different rules and guidelines for the use of marketing materials in your campaign. Make sure you are aware of these rules and follow them closely. You don’t want to be disqualified from your campaign. Don't hang flyers or posters for your campaign in areas of the school where they are not supposed to be. Don't pass out trinkets or gifts to potential voters if this is not allowed in your school. 7. **Make campaign signs.** You're not going to win if people don't know you're running. Put up eye-catching posters with memorable slogans to attract the attention of your classmates. Make sure to use bright colors and place these posters in highly trafficked areas of the school, as this will help make sure your signs get seen. If there is a particular hallway or room where students congregate often, place your campaign signs in that area. Use neon green, yellow, orange or pink poster boards to make your signs. These colors have been proven effective in catching people's attention. 8. **Utilize handouts.** Make fliers, buttons, and pamphlets to pass among your peers. As helpful as signs will be to your campaign, giving the voters something physical that they can hold on to will serve as a reminder that you are running throughout the duration of the campaign. In your fliers or pamphlets, make sure you espouse some positions and give the voters some information about yourself. Try handing out candy. Everyone loves candy and they really like the people who give it to them for free! If your school doesn't allow you to hand out candy, then try handing out bracelets, pencils, and stickers. You may find that people are sticking your stickers on the wall and that is just extra exposure. 9. **Chalk the sidewalks.** If you school will allow you to, write your campaign slogan or “vote for …” on the sidewalks around your school or in the parking lot in chalk. These sidewalks are highly visible areas to promote your campaign. Again, use bright eye-catching colors and memorable slogans. Again, neon colors are ideal for catching the attention of your classmates. Make sure to check with your school to ensure this is allowed. 10. **Start small.** Don't run for class president your first year out. Try one of the other positions, instead. If you're new at the school, try volunteering for a position that's not elected your first year, such as yearbook or newspaper. It will be a good way to get to know classmates and the school and gain experience before you run. You may also wish to start your own club or organization. Spearheading an initiative like this will allow you to stand out from the crowd as someone who is willing to invest his own time to improve the student experience. 11. **Recognize your strengths and interests.** For example, if you like writing, run for secretary. If you're a leader, try president or vice president. It is best to attempt to win a position in which you will naturally excel. 12. **Make pledges.** If you make reasonable pledges that are appealing to the majority of people, many of those same people will vote for you (for example, say you'll create a short break between classes during each day). However, don't pledge to do something you know you can't do, like getting rid of homework; most people won't believe you and those who do will be disappointed if you can't make it happen. Always be aware of the limitations of your office. You don't want to make promises now only to find out later that you don't have the authority. 13. **Prepare and deliver a quality speech.** Most school elections give the candidates an opportunity to deliver a speech to their classmates. This speech will likely be one of the most important components of your campaign. Here are some tips for delivering a quality speech: When you make a speech, keep it short, and to the point. Tell the voters why you are the best candidate for the office you're running for. Speak clearly and stand confidently like you know you are deserving of the office you're seeking. When making a speech, don't try to plead, bribe, blackmail, or make promises you cannot fulfill. Know what you can and cannot do in the office you're seeking. Add humor to your speech. Don't lie. Be honest. If you make impossible promises you aren't able to keep, no one will vote for you in the future. Make hand gestures and move around your audience while making speeches. This will help keep their attention. Join some debate or oral communications class or after-school club to practice your public speaking skills. 14. **Follow through.** If you get elected president, make all of your possible promises come true, and try to make a good one, so you can get elected once more. Make a note of the things you promised to do while campaigning. Tackle those issues one by one, checking off your initiatives as you go. Be prepared to fight for something you promised the student body. Perhaps you said you would try to increase the amount of time between classes, but the school's administration says it can't be done. Don't just give up. Ask questions of the administration and challenge any inconsistencies in their explanation. Your classmates voted for you so that you could represent them. Even if you can't get them what they want, you can at least say you tried your best.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Win-a-Class-Election", "language": "en"}

How to Catch Pompano

Pompano is a popular food fish that can sell at a higher price per pound than beef. The fish is about 18 inches (45 cm) long and weighs about 2 to 3 lb. (1 to 1.4 kg) when fully grown. It is found on the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf of Mexico coasts, and in the West Indies. Anglers fish for pompano from piers, under bridges or on the beach, depending on their preferences. 1. **Find pompano schools on the far side of wave breaks and sand bars.** The fish wait for sand fleas, also called mole crabs, and other small crustaceans to be washed off the beach and carried to them by the wave action. This puts them in easy reach of anglers who prefer to fish from the beach or a pier. 2. **Use a spinning rod, fish finder rig, 2/0 circle hooks, and 12-lb (5.5 kg) monofilament line.** Add a pyramid weight sufficient to keep your bait from returning to shore with the waves. You may need a bigger rod when the surf is heavy. 3. **Catch sand fleas to use as bait.** Sand fleas are the pompano's favorite food and are readily available in areas where pompano are. Look for v-shaped eddies when the waves roll off the beach. These are where sand fleas have washed ashore and are digging into the sand. Collect the sand fleas in a dry bucket. If you can't find any sand fleas, it's likely that you won't catch any pompano. Move to a location where sand fleas are plentiful. Pompano will eat other crustaceans, like shrimp, and even on occasion small bait fish. 4. **Cast right into the break of the surf and on the back sides of sand bars.** 5. **Locate a pompano school on the down current side of a bridge.** They wait for small crustaceans to be pulled off the bridge pilings by the current. The pompano will linger in one place as long as there is food coming their way, making them easy to catch by anglers who prefer to fish from a boat. 6. **Use 20-lb test line in case you hook a larger fish.** Attach an egg sinker, about 12 inches of leader, and a size 6 hook. 7. **Collect small fiddler crabs to use as bait.** Break off the big claw before baiting your hook. Place some rags in a bucket and just cover the crabs with seawater. Fiddler crabs will live several days in a shady place. 8. **Anchor your boat or tie it to and up current piling.** Drop your line near the down current pilings. Pompano will be on one side of the bridge when the tide comes in and the other side when the tide goes out, so you will have to move your boat if the tide changes. 9. **Chum every 15 minutes or so.** Chumming is the practice of dumping cut bait or fish parts into the water to attract fish. When fishing near a bridge, scrape barnacles and mussels from the pilings with a long-handled garden scraper and allow the current to carry them toward the pompano. 10. **Allow your bait to sink to the bottom, pull it up slightly, and let it hit bottom again.** The bait will disturb the sand on the bottom, which attracts the fish. You may have to change the weight of your sinker to accomplish this. Let your line play out as the current drags your line toward the down current pilings.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-Pompano", "language": "en"}

How to Become an Acupuncturist

Acupuncturists, and other practitioners of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AOM), use traditional Chinese medical practices to treat pain. They insert thin needles along the body's meridians, or energy vessels, to relieve tension, release energy, and stimulate the body. Acupuncturists may help treat patients suffering from arthritis, headaches, asthma, lethargy, stress, carpal tunnel syndrome, menstrual discomfort, or addiction. According the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, requirements for acupuncturist licensure vary by state, so you must look up the regulations where you live to become certified as an acupuncturist. 1. **Make sure you have the skills to be an acupuncturist.** Not everyone can be an acupuncturist, as it requires several specific skills. You will need good hand-eye coordination, steady hands, strong communications skills, and a passion for working with people. 2. **Choose your school of acupuncture.** As a traditional practice, there are a variety of different schools of thought regarding best practices, such as traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Five Element. 3. **Talk to practicing acupuncturists.** Find out what they did to earn their certification, and why they went into the profession. They can also tell you about the difficulties you will encounter in trying to get started, as both a student and practitioner. 4. **Get a command of the language spoken in your country.** If you want to work in the United States, then you'll have to demonstrate a command of the English language to work as an acupuncturist. You will have to know how to understand and communicate flawlessly with your patients and review clinical records. When it comes to acupuncture, it is crucial to know exactly what to say to your patients and to understand when your patients are expressing discomfort or concern. Depending on the school of acupuncture you follow, you may also need to learn the traditional language of that school. At the very least, you'll need to learn the Chinese medical terms that are used in acupuncture. 5. **Research the acupuncture licensing requirements in the state where you will work.** Certification requirements vary widely by state. Some states require you to earn a doctor of medicine degree, while others only necessitate hourly coursework with supervised training. These requirements will dictate the path you need to take to be an acupuncturist in your state. Each state will also have rules regarding the "scope of practice," that is, what you are allowed to do once licensed in that state. Individual states have different rules regarding certification reciprocity. If you want to practice acupuncture in two or more states, check with the individual states to determine what their rules are regarding the recognition of other state certifications. If you're already a physician and would like to practice acupuncture, check out the American Board of Medical Acupuncture, which offers examinations and explains the standards for physicians who want to practice acupuncture. 6. **Meet the educational requirements for a training program.** Most acupuncture training programs require students to have a bachelor's degree. Your degree can be in any subject, but you may want to take classes in fields such as physiology, anatomy, biology, and psychology. A bachelor's degree in a healthcare or alternative medicine related subject can also be helpful for a career as an acupuncturist. While a bachelor's degree is ideal, some acupuncture schools only require two academic years of education at the baccalaureate level, or the equivalent, such as certification for a medical profession such as nursing. The requirements vary by program and state, so look at the requirements for your state and program. 7. **Attend an accredited acupuncture college.** Each college will have a different emphasis, but all will involve the study and practice of acupuncture, along with other aspects of Chinese herbal medicine. Most acupuncture programs take about 3 years to finish, and up to 4 years for a program in oriental medicine. Schools are certified by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM), which can help you find programs in your state. 8. **Apply for certification.** The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) provides the general certification for the profession. You will need to fill out an application, available on their website, and pay a certification fee. Though this is a private organization, NCCAOM certification can pass for licensing in many states. The application fee for Acupuncture Certification is currently $475. Different certifications granted by the NCCAOM have different fees, so be sure to check if you intend to get a different certification. The application also requires official transcripts from your AOM program, so be sure to contact your school and tell them to send those in. It is best to begin filling out the certification paperwork in the final year of your studies. It is best to check with your school for the best time to get that paperwork in. You don't want to delay certification, as the process takes some time, and it will be very hard (if not impossible) to get a job without it. 9. **Pass the NCCAOM exam.** Once your application has been processed and approved by the organization and state board, you will be allowed to sign up to take the certification exam. This exam is required for licensure in most states. Once you pass this exam, you are board certified. In most states, you will be recognized as a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.). Some states will use the designation "Acupuncture Physician" or "Doctor of Oriental Medicine." The NCCAOM's website provides study guides to help prepare for the exam. You cannot take the exam without first having your application approved by the NCCAOM. Some states will require additional exams for more certification. Check the list provided by the NCCAOM for the requirements in your state. 10. **Get a job as an acupuncturist.** Most beginner acupuncturists start out working with an established practice to gain experience and build up a client base. Acupuncturist jobs are typically easier to find in larger metropolitan areas than in small towns. You may have to start with an apprenticeship or an internship to gain more experience to make yourself a desirable candidate for an independent practice. 11. **Develop meaningful relationships with your clients.** It's not easy to make a living as an acupuncturist, and if you want to survive in the business, then you have to remember that your clients are everything to you. You need to be polite, learn a little bit about them and remember the things they've told you on previous visits, to be friendly and approachable, and to make sure they feel comfortable coming to your office time after time. After each visit, make sure your clients book a follow-up appointment right away. This will encourage them to keep coming. Call up your clients the day before their appointments. This will greatly reduce the rate of no-shows and will show them you care. You can also get referrals from your clients. Ask them if they have any friends who would be interested in your practice. This is a great way to get even more clients. 12. **Continue your education.** If you want to succeed, you can't just stop with your license to be an acupuncturist. You should take night classes at a community college or pursue another master's degree in a relevant field such as Acupuncture Practice Management, Marketing, or Business Success Principles. Many practitioners get into trouble when they focus only on healing principles and techniques and don't think about the business end of things. If you really want to help your clients, then you have to gain skills to help you keep your business afloat. Attending any continuing education courses can give you valuable experience, even if they aren't business-related. Just as in any field of medicine, acupuncture treatments are constantly evolving. Pursue continuing training to learn new strategies, improve your techniques and keep your skills current. 13. **Maintain your certification.** Your certification from NCCAOM will need renewal every four years. You will need to fill out a form, and document your participation in Professional Development Activities (PDA). You will need a minimum of 60 points worth of PDA to qualify for recertification. You should mail your application materials to the NCCAOM at least 60 days before your certification is due to lapse. To prepare for recertification, read the handbook posted on the Council's website. If you miss these deadlines, your status will be considered "Lapsed" or "Inactive," and require additional work to regain certification. 14. **Consider starting your own business.** Once you've gained some experience, understood the business side of things, and have developed a client base, you should consider starting your own acupuncture business. With your knowledge, you can become a business owner and have your clients follow you to your new practice. The more connections you have in the field, the better. If you know a few acupuncturists who would want to move to your business with you, you already have a leg up.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Acupuncturist", "language": "en"}

How to Not Care What People Think

Not caring what others think can be difficult. However, there are plenty of steps you can take to become more self-confident, form your own opinions, and develop your own style. Try not to assume others are watching and judging your every step, and avoid putting too much stock in their opinions. Form your opinions based on facts and evidence. Make decisions based on your values instead of compromising your beliefs based on what others think. When it comes to style, remember that taste is subjective, so no one has the final word. 1. **Accept yourself for who you are.** Be yourself, improve yourself where you can, and accept aspects of yourself that you can’t change. Don’t try to change who you are just to please others. Make a list of all the things that you like about yourself and another of things you’d like to improve. You can ask friends and family to help you build your list, since they may think of things you might not. Think of specific steps you can take to improve, for example: “Sometimes I overreact and snap at other people. Every time someone makes a statement, I should pause before responding and think about what to say before saying it.” Keep this list somewhere you will see it often, such as on your mirror or closet door. Read over it at least once every day. Accept things about yourself that you can’t change. For example, you might wish you were taller, but that's not something you can change. Instead of focusing on why you wish you were tall, try to think of little things that are nice about being shorter, like the fact that you’ll bump your head less. Try to think of things about yourself that other people would likely envy and want to replicate. 2. **Visualize successful outcomes instead of fearing embarrassment.** Try not to focus on failing, embarrassment, or on what other people will think if you do something wrong. If you find yourself reliving embarrassing moments, consciously redirect yourself to something you have accomplished instead. Break down goals into small pieces, and visualize yourself succeeding at each step. For example, if you want to be more confident when having conversations, break the goal into small parts: maintain eye contact, listen to the other person, nod when they make a point, ask them questions, and offer honest responses based on your own experiences. If an outcome doesn’t turn out according to plan, try to learn from it instead of getting embarrassed. Write down what you would do differently next time to help solidify what you have learned. Remember that everything is a learning process and that no one is great at everything, especially on the first attempt. 3. **Avoid second guessing every step you take.** Try not to assume that everyone is judging every little thing you do. Before getting lost in a cycle of self-doubt, remind yourself that anyone worth your time has more to worry about than criticizing your every thought and action. Also, remind yourself that mistakes serve a purpose and are a necessary part of growth. Do your best to notice when you start to overthink or second guess yourself. Tell yourself, “Stop over-analyzing. Calm down and don’t worry.” Self-reflection and learning from your mistakes are good things, provided you focus on positive growth instead of negative overthinking. 4. **Don’t let someone’s negative judgment define who you are.** Keep a balanced perspective and don’t view a negative judgment as a permanent, absolute fact. If you think there’s some truth in their judgment, use it as an opportunity to improve instead of letting it define you. For example, suppose someone says that you have a bad temper. If you’ve barely interacted with them and they don’t know you at all, brush off their judgment. However, if they’re a classmate or coworker who spends a lot of time with you, consider why they think you have a temper. Work on developing strategies for keeping your cool, like counting while slowly breathing when you start feeling angry. 5. **Consider if a person judging you has good intentions.** How a person expresses an opinion of you can let you know whether you should brush it off or take it to heart. Ask yourself, “Does this person have my best interests in mind? Is this something I can work on to become a better person, or is it just a petty judgment that’s meant to insult me?” For example, your good friend might say, “You seem to be disconnected lately - you don’t seem like yourself.” That’s a judgment you’d want to take to heart. On the other hand, you’d want to just brush it off if someone you don’t know well says, “You never pay attention - you’re so dumb!” Also, remember that petty judgements are usually meant to make the person feel better about themselves and not to hurt you. Consider if you can find some empathy for the person and their self-esteem issues. 6. **Get the facts from multiple sources.** When forming an opinion on something like a news topic, try to look for multiple sources. Read articles published by different news outlets, and try to include perspectives that challenge your own beliefs. Try to gather your own information rather than instinctively agreeing or disagreeing with what someone else thinks. For example, your parents might have an opinion about a news story. Instead of just agreeing with them because they’re your parents, you might search online to find articles on the subject from multiple news bureaus. After reading a few perspectives on the topic, you can form your own opinion based on what you’ve learned. 7. **Decide if a person is informed about a topic.** Before getting too concerned about what someone thinks, consider their expertise and the way they express their opinion. If your teacher wrote their graduate school thesis on a particular historical event, you’ll want to value what they think over someone less informed. In addition to considering the source, think about its package: is someone informed about a subject speaking to you in a clear, thoughtful way? Or are they just hurling insults and criticizing your opinion just for the sake of disagreeing with you? You may also consider whether someone might have a personal motivation for feeling one way or another. 8. **Avoid faking agreement just to please others.** Don’t be afraid to have an opinion that goes against the norm, especially if you've put time and thought into forming that opinion. Balance evidence with your gut instincts instead of trying to conform and satisfy others. Respect what others think, and accept that not everyone will think the same way you do. For example, if you prefer dogs over cats, don't pretend to like cats more just to please your friends who think cats are better. You should form your own opinion, even if all of your friends prefer cats. It can be healthy to challenge your core beliefs, but you should avoid compromising them just for the sake of popularity. For instance, if you were raised in a religious tradition, you might find that a healthy dose of doubt will deepen your faith in the long run. But that doesn’t mean you should change your beliefs just because someone criticizes them out of ignorance. Also, keep in mind that it is okay to disagree with people. You can express your opinion in a non-challenging manner and listen respectfully to their opinion as well. However, it is important to consider your goal for the conversation before moving forward. 9. **Work on getting in touch with yourself.** Consider the similarities and differences between how you act in private versus when you're around lots of people. Ask yourself, “How do I represent myself to strangers, to people I’m more comfortable with, and to myself?” Try to think of what really makes you who you are. Write down a list of character traits that are important to you, like honesty, loyalty, or humor. You can also ask trustworthy friends and family members to help you think of things. Spend some quiet time reflecting on your traits, talents, and favorite things. Try to develop an appreciation for what makes you a unique individual. 10. **Make decisions based on your own values.** Make choices that are consistent with your priorities instead of doing what other people think is cool. For example, suppose your friends want to go to a party and get drunk, but you have a soccer game the next day, and soccer is really important to you. Instead of going to the party just to look cool, choose to be well prepared and well rested for your game because it's important to you. Do not feel like you have to defend yourself or your values to other people! 11. **Represent yourself in ways that make you happy.** Think of how to incorporate your interests, likes, and dislikes into your clothes, surroundings, and lifestyle choices. Focus on creating a style that makes you happy instead of just going for what's trendy or popular. For example, if you find that you love to mix and match patterns in your wardrobe, don’t be afraid to wear what you love just because of what one person might think. Decorate your apartment or room with knick-knacks that have sentimental value, even if someone suggests you should use trendier items or go for a more minimal look. On the other hand, skip out on decorative objects altogether if you can’t stand clutter. Just go with whatever will make your space most livable for you. 12. **Create an inspiration folder to get in touch with your own style.** When developing your sense of clothing style, check out fashion magazines and blogs to search for inspiration. Save or cut out images that motivate you, and use them to put together a digital or paper "look book" or inspiration folder. Using your new library, assemble looks that make you feel unique and confident. Signature items like a particular piece of jewelry, scarves, funky hats, or pattern can also help put a unique stamp on your style. Think of a specific item or aesthetic element that makes you happy and expresses something you love about yourself. For example, if you love sailing or boats, maybe an anchor necklace and bold nautical stripes would be a unique touch. 13. **Remember that taste is subjective.** If someone says something about your taste, remember that their style opinion isn’t the final word. Taste is subjective, and you might not love everything about their fashion or decor. Variety is a great thing: imagine how boring it would be if everyone’s clothes and houses looked exactly the same! While it’s great to dress in a way that expresses your individuality, remember to consider degrees of appropriateness for every situation. Dressing professionally or in accordance with the dress code at work will probably earn you more respect than wearing a tee shirt and ripped jeans. 14. **Avoid uninvited judgments.** Social media is a great way to stay connected with people. However, it also gives people plenty of opportunities to judge your lifestyle choices. For example, if you don’t want to invite people to criticize your clothes or image, consider sharing fewer selfies on social media platforms. You can also unfollow or unfriend people who are judgmental, rude, or who make you feel bad about yourself.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Not-Care-What-People-Think", "language": "en"}

How to Make a Homework Planner

Keeping track of homework and assignment due dates can be tricky without an organizational strategy. With several classes worth of work to remember, relying on your memory can be a challenge. Put your mind at ease by making a homework planner, and soon you will have all of your assignments at your fingertips. 1. **Decide what types of planning sheets you will include.** Staying organized usually requires more than one type of planning list, such as a monthly calendar, a weekly calendar, and a daily to-do list. You could also use just a calendar with extended areas for writing notes and planning. Also, you can use post-it or sticky notes to add extra notes to your planner. Some people prefer to use digital planners, although these can sometimes be harder to personalize. 2. **Choose your paper.** One of the benefits of crafting your planner is that you can use any type of paper. Use what you have on hand, print planning templates, or make a trip to the craft store to choose prints that inspire you. Notebook paper offers a quick solution because you probably already have some in your backpack. Blank computer paper allows you an unstructured space to plan, which may work really well for people who are creative. Using templates makes it easier to get started and stay organized. Since you’ll be printing your own templates, you can choose what best suits your needs. Templates may take more work than notebook paper, but they will make it easier to get started with your planning since the calendar and planning spaces are already created for you. Try printed papers for a fun approach to creating your planner. Visit your local craft store for tons of design options. If you use printed paper, keep in mind how you will be using the planner when you pick your designs. For example, don’t choose all dark colors if you want to write directly onto the paper because you won’t be able to see what you wrote. 3. **Put your paper in the order you want it to appear in your notebook.** You can organize your paper to match how you will use it, which could be by type of planning sheet or by month. Organizing into monthly, weekly, and daily sections will allow you to keep similar planning sheets together. This is a standard format for many planners and will allow you to keep weeks together when the month changes midweek. It also allows you to be flexible with how you use your to-do list sheets. If you want to organize by month, take one monthly calendar and pair it with five weekly planning sheets and enough to-do list sheets to accommodate your planning needs. 4. **Create sections for your planner.** Once you’ve organized your paper, it’s time to put it into sections as it will appear in your final product. You can mark your sections by placing a sheet of colored paper between them. You could also use dividers or stick-on divider tabs. Another option is to mark the sections with tape. Take a strip of tape and fold it over on itself so that just the edges of the tape touch the paper between two sections, leaving the fold of the tape sticking out of the stack. If you have post-it notes, you can use them as section dividers or to highlight important sections. 5. **Design your cover.** When you craft your own planner, you get to be creative with the cover. If you like to work on the computer, design your cover using your favorite app and then print it out. If you want to skip decorating your cover or want something that looks store-bought, use a piece of scrapbook paper from the craft store as your cover. For example, you could buy a piece of zebra print paper and print your planner title on the front. If you’re an artist, draw or paint your cover. If you don’t like to draw or craft, you could try decorating your planner with stickers that represent something you love, such as your hobby or favorite bands. 6. **Decide what sections to include in your planner.** Common section names will include monthly calendars, weekly planners, and to-do lists. You can also decide if this planner will be for all of your classes or just one of them. This could affect how many sections you decide to make. 7. **Bind your paper.** Now that sections are clearly marked, it’s time to bind your paper. The simplest option is to staple the paper together. For a cleaner look, cut a two-inch-wide slip of paper and fold it so that it will fit over your staples. Glue the paper in place to make your homemade planner look like a composition book. You can also make a notebook using a hole punch and ribbon. 8. **Write your assignments into your planner.** Using your course syllabi or assignment sheets, copy all of your assignments into your new planner. Use the different colored inks for each class for the best results. If you're using your planner for just one class, you could use different colored inks for different types of assignments. For example, you could use blue for essays, orange for worksheets, red for tests, etc. Enter assignments for the whole grading period at once, which will prevent you from overlooking due dates. Divide your larger assignments over several days so that you have time to complete the assignment. For example, if you have a science project due at the end of the month, you need to start working on it in advance. Write your project workdays onto your calendar as well. 9. **Choose a notebook.** Get started by finding the perfect notebook for you, such as a composition book, spiral, or journal. While you can choose a nice print, decorating your homework planner is a great way to express yourself. 10. **Decorate your notebook.** Designing your cover gives you a chance to be creative, even if you don’t consider yourself an artist. You may decide to use ink or paint directly on the cover of your notebook, or you may find it more fun to glue on your decorations. If you’re artistic, take this as an opportunity to express your talent by sketching or painting your planner cover. Another option is to create a collage using clippings of photos, words, and phrases from a magazine. Simply glue the clippings to the cover of your notebook in your desired arrangement. To protect your work, self-laminate it with clear packing tape. If you enjoy crafting, you could glue fabric, paper, or magazine photos to your notebook. If you don’t like to draw or craft, you could try decorating your planner with stickers or photos. For example, you could cover your notebook with stickers representing your favorite bands, or you could print out your favorite photos of your friends to glue on the cover. 11. **Divide your notebook into sections.** Before you can use your newly decorated notebook as a homework planner, you need to create sections for your planning. Common sections will include monthly calendars, weekly planners, and to-do lists. Count out the number of sheets for each section. Because it’s your planner, how many sheets of paper you will need per section will depend on you. However, for a standard year-long planner, you would need at least 14 sheets of paper for monthly planning and 54 sheets of paper for weekly planning. Including extra sheets in each section will allow for section labels, do-overs, and section buffers. Create your section dividers by either using tape or cutting the edges of the paper. To make your dividers using tape, fold a piece of tape over on itself so that just the ends touch the paper. Leave a flap of tape sticking out from the paper so that you can easily see the divide between sections. You can also divide your planner by cutting the corners of two of your sections. For example, you could cut the top outer corner of the monthly calendars and cut the bottom outer corner of the weekly planning sheets, leaving your third section un-cut. This would allow you to easily find each of those three sections. 12. **Label your sections.** On the first page of each of your sections, create a label. You can write, draw, or use stickers. As an alternative, you could print out what you want your label to say, trim the excess paper, and glue it onto the title page. 13. **Create your calendars.** Drawing or pasting in a calendar will allow you to better plan your assignments because you can see a month at a glance. You can also more easily plan out time to work on big assignments. To draw your calendar, you will need a ruler or a straight surface to trace. Using your ruler, draw a large box. Lengthwise, trace six evenly-spaced lines to create seven columns for the seven days of the week. Then draw four evenly-spaced lines down the width of the box to create the rows of weeks. When you are finished, you will have 35 boxes. Write the days of the week above each column. Write the name of the month and the correct dates for the first month of your homework planner. 14. **Make your weekly planning sheets.** Much of your actual planning will happen in your weekly section, so it’s important to create those planning sheets. Fortunately, it’s very easy to organize your weekly plans by dividing your sheets into eight even boxes so that you will have seven for the days of the week and one extra box for notes. Draw a line down the center of your paper and then draw three evenly-spaced lines across your paper to create eight boxes. Label seven of the boxes with the days of the week, and label the eighth box “Notes.” Don't put down everything into your planner, because some deadlines are flexible. Otherwise, if you've already planned everything out but then want to do something differently, you'll have to replan everything. 15. **Insert your assignments.** You’re now ready to use your homework planner! Use your syllabi or assignment sheets to fill in your assignments. Try organizing your tasks by things that need to get done soon within the next couple days, things that you can do next, things that you can do within the next week or two, and things that you'd like to do at some point in the future. 16. **Choose your binder.** When you pick a binder, remember to consider size. You could save space with a .5-inch binder, but you may find that you require more planning space, so using a 1- or 2-inch binder may be ideal. You can recycle an old binder or purchase a new one. To avoid adding bulk to your backpack, print out calendars and weekly planning templates and put them in your regular binder. That way you can easily track your assignments without worrying about juggling an extra notebook. 17. **Decide how you want to plan.** Most planners include sections for monthly calendars, weekly planning sheets, and to-do lists. Since you’re using a binder, it will be easy to add new sections later if you decide you need additional planning materials. 18. **Print your planning sheets.** Using either a template or your own design, print out the sheets you will need for each section. This will include blank calendars, blank weekly planning sheets, and your favorite to-do list organizer. You may choose to use regular notebook paper for your to-do lists. 19. **Insert your dividers and planning sheets.** As you put in your planning sheets, you will want to separate them with standard index dividers for binders so that you can easily flip between sections. Using index dividers will also allow you to label each section for easy organization. Open the rings on your binder and first insert your to-do list paper. Place an index divider on top of the stack. Add your monthly planning sheets, followed by the index divider for that section. Finally, add your calendars, and, if you like, an index divider for that section. You may want to also add a special index page or key that explains your organizational strategy. 20. **Enter your assignments.** Your homework planner is ready to use! Use your syllabi or assignment sheets to schedule your assignments on your planning pages.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Homework-Planner", "language": "en"}

10 Healing Ways to Move On After a Friend Breakup (Stop Obsessing and Find Peace)

Losing a friend can be a heartbreaking experience. Whether you drifted apart or had a falling out, it's completely normal to be preoccupied with thoughts of what went wrong and how much you miss them. Though reflecting on the loss is an important part of the healing process, ruminating or obsessing over the friendship can make it difficult to move on. Read on for some tips so that you can regain your focus and look towards the future with a positive perspective. 1. **Getting it out on the page can be a great release.** If you find yourself ruminating, write down what you're thinking. Note how your thoughts are making you feel as well. When you're done, reread what you wrote to gain a deeper understanding of your feelings and let them go. If you've been thinking a lot about your last conversation with this friend, note how it's making you feel. Perhaps you're angry with them for what they said, or maybe you're still hurt by their words. Process your feelings in a way that's helpful for you. If you don't like writing long-form journal entries, try sketching, writing poems, or making lists. 2. **Address the friend that you lost to give yourself closure.** Maybe there are some things that you wish you would have said or some questions you still have. Write it all down. When you're done, rip up the letter, throw it away, or ceremoniously burn it. Though you may never get to say these things to the friend's face, releasing your feelings in this way can help you put them to rest. 3. **Do this at least temporarily.** Box up or give away any gifts that they gave you and mementos like postcards, old letters, or notes. Delete or archive photos and videos of them on your phone. It will help you move on and stop thinking of them if you don't have things around your house reminding you of them. If throwing things out or giving them away feels too extreme, at least store them away from where you can see them for a while. 4. **Looking at their social media will only make you think about them more.** Mute their posts and stories on sites like Instagram and Twitter so that they don't turn up on your feed. If you want to make sure you can't see or contact each other, blocking them may be the best option. Though it can be hard to remember sometimes, know that unfriending or blocking someone isn't mean. Sometimes it's what you have to do to heal and move on. 5. **Take some time to vent if you can.** A family member or friend that knows you well can help you process what happened. Talk about the experience and how you're feeling. Listen to any advice or feedback your friends and family give you. After, ask them how they're doing and talk about something else for a while to give yourself a break from the subject. Avoid talking out your feelings with someone who is also friends with your lost friend. This could create unwanted drama or put them in an uncomfortable position. 6. **Focus on meeting your physical and emotional needs.** It's hard, but you can thrive in life, even without this friendship. Eat healthy foods, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly so that you can invest your energy in your work, interests, and hobbies. Focusing on yourself, rather than your lost friend, can help you rebuild your self-esteem and figure out what you want out of future friendships. Get back into what you love. Take a painting class if you enjoy making art. Go on a challenging hike if you like being in the outdoors. Throw yourself into the things that make you happy. Try new things to discover your full potential. If you've always wanted to play the piano, now's the time to sign up for lessons. Being open to new experiences can help you meet new people and remember that there is still a lot in store for your life. 7. **Look at them as lessons for how you want to act in future friendships.** It's possible you simply drifted apart, or perhaps your friend was the one who made mistakes. If your actions did contribute to the end of your friendship, though, be compassionate with yourself. Reflect on your past mistakes, but forgive yourself so that you can move on and change your behavior. For example, If you struggled with being dependable in your past friendship, make a point to always follow through with plans going forward. 8. **This helps you break the cycle of rumination.** If you're stuck on thoughts of your lost friendship, redirect your thoughts to your senses. If you're outside, focus on the weather and how it feels. Notice if you hear any sounds, like birds chirping or a truck driving by. By redirecting like this, you can interrupt obsessive thoughts before they get out of hand. You don't have to dedicate specific times to practice mindfulness. Use it as a quick tool to get back on track anytime your thoughts are running away from you. 9. **Even 5 minutes of meditation a day can do wonders.** First, choose a comfortable place to sit. Then, focus on only your breaths. Breathe in and out slowly, noticing the gentle rise and fall of your abdomen. If any thoughts come your way, let them pass without attachment. This practice can really help you regain control if you find yourself ruminating endlessly. If you struggle to quiet your mind, try repeating a mantra in your head. Choose calming words like "quiet," "stillness," and "peace." You can also imagine a calming image to quiet your mind. Picture a scenic beach, a beautiful forest, or any scene that helps you relax. As you get more comfortable with the practice, up the amount of time you spend meditating from 5 to 15 minutes. 10. **They can help give you the tools to move on if you're really struggling.** If your obsessive thoughts about your lost friend are distracting you at work or school and getting in the way of your ability to be happy, seek guidance from a mental health professional. They can help you process your feelings and give you advice on how to control your thoughts. To start seeing a therapist or counselor, get a referral from your doctor or search online for one in your area. The end of a friendship can be heartbreaking, sometimes even more so than losing a romantic partner. Don't be hard on yourself if you need some extra support. It's completely normal and understandable.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Obsessing-over-a-Lost-Friendship", "language": "en"}

How to Be a Computer Genius

If you are passionate about learning new things, fascinated by computers, and enjoy problem-solving, you can become a computer genius. And don’t worry if you can’t pursue a computer science degree. You can build computer mastery by combining a solid understanding of computer fundamentals with hands-on experience, troubleshooting skills, and knowing how to find useful information. 1. **Find (and read) a book for a beginner.** Even if you are not brand new to using a computer, getting a book for beginners is a great way to fill the gaps in your knowledge. Ask your librarian to show you books for beginning computer users, search your favorite bookseller's website for “computers for beginners,” or try one of these: Any computer-related book in the “For Dummies” series, such as PCs for Dummies or Macs for Dummies. How Computers Work by Ron White Upgrading and Repairing PCs by Scott Mueller 2. **Learn the names of the hardware in your computer.** To become a computer genius, you will need to understand how the different parts of a computer work with one another. Everything inside of your computer is connected to the motherboard, including the CPU, which acts as the computer’s “brain.” RAM stores data that’s currently in use. Become familiar with how it works with and connects to the motherboard. Peripheral cards add functions to the computer. Learn about sound, networking, and video cards. Storage and disk drives are places to store data. Research hard drives, CD/DVD-ROM drives, and removable media like USB flash drives and SD cards. 3. **Go to a computer store and try out the latest technology.** Each computer’s hardware specs should be visible on a label or sign near the unit. Notice the different amounts of RAM, different CPU brands and speeds, and different screen resolutions. Try opening the same program on different computers and notice differences in speed. Ask a salesperson which computers they recommend for various tasks. For example, “Which of these units is good for gaming?” or “Which would you recommend to someone who just needs to write papers for college?” Then, observe the difference in specs between the different computers. 4. **Watch YouTube videos of people opening their computers.** Watch other computer geniuses install RAM or replace dead hard drives to get a sense of what these tasks entail. Listen carefully as the person describes what they are doing. 5. **Open your computer and locate each hardware component.** If you’re feeling confident, look inside your own computer to see how the different hardware components connect to one another. If you feel apprehensive, ask someone who knows more about computers to walk you through the process. Never open a computer unless the machine is on a sturdy surface and you are properly grounded. 6. **Learn the differences between different operating systems.** There are pros and cons to using Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Chrome OS, etc. Visit each operating system’s website to familiarize yourself with its features. Then, search the web for blogs that cater specifically to users of those operating systems. Reading user blogs is a great way to discover how people use their computers. Windows is pre-installed on most PCs and is used by businesses as both servers and workstations. Windows is also popular with home users and gamers who love tinkering with hardware. Mac OSX is known to be sleek and aesthetically pleasing. Made popular by artists, Mac OSX almost always runs on Apple hardware (although it can be installed on modern desktops) and has a familiar design that is gaining in popularity. Linux is a free (usually) flavor of “Unix” used by more advanced computer users. It’s highly customizable, secure, can be used on basically any type of hardware to perform any type of function. Chrome OS is a simple operating system found on Google Chromebooks. It’s geared toward people who are more interested in using the web (and web applications) than anything else. 7. **Use every opportunity to play with operating systems other than the one you use.** To be a well-rounded computer genius, you should have experience using all operating systems and a wide variety of software. You can find Windows PCs at public libraries. Most college campuses have both PCs and Macs available for student use. Alternatively, you can ask a friend or a relative if you can try using their computer. Try doing the same sort of task (like browsing the web) on a Windows, Linux, or Mac computer and notice the differences. 8. **Explore the operating system you use on your own computer.** Both Macs and Windows have built-in System panels that provide details about the computer. Try to explore a new area of the Control Panel (Windows) or System Preferences (Mac) every day. Just poking around and clicking to view the different options will add necessary information to your budding genius brain. To open the Control Panel in Windows, press ⊞ Win+S to launch the search, then type control panel. Click “Control Panel” in the search results, then browse through the various panels. To view System Preferences on your Mac: Click the Apple menu at the top-left corner of the screen, then click “System Preferences.” 9. **Install new software.** If it’s your first time, start with something easy, like a new web browser. If you’re at a more advanced level, try installing Linux. Linux is a free operating system popular with the geeks (your team!) that can be installed on lots of different hardware configurations. Because Linux is so popular with people who love computers, there’s an entire community of Linux users active on chats and forums. Learning Linux is bound to make you new friends, perhaps even a mentor. 10. **Study programming languages such as Java, SQL, Ruby on Rails, or PHP.** Once you have nailed the basics, venture into advanced territory. Knowing how to code separates the computer geniuses from casual users. Research what different programming languages do and select one to study. Get a book on the language. Starting with a beginner’s book will build a great foundation for your advanced study. Look into classes that provide hands-on coding experience. You will have to pay for some of the more prestigious courses available through coding academies, but you’ll find the occasional free class through Coursera and Khan Academy. 11. **Set up a network.** Getting one computer on the Internet is simple, but what about configuring an entire network of computers? Challenge yourself to learn different ways to connect computers to the Internet, share files across systems, and set up firewalls. 12. **Learn about (and protect yourself from) threats to your computers, code, and networks.** Knowing how to set things up is a great start, but protecting your handiwork from security threats is a whole new world. Research things like Denial of Service attacks, code vulnerabilities, database hacks, and worm viruses to prepare yourself for what’s possible. 13. **Network with other computer enthusiasts.** Having a community of computer geniuses (or those who are still in the aspirational stage) will allow you to ask and answer questions, as well as learn about new technology that might interest you. Research local meetup groups in your area. Discover chatrooms and forums full of computer users that are accessible 24/7. 14. **Commit to a lifetime of learning.** Becoming a computer genius will not happen overnight. It takes hard work, dedication, sharp problem-solving skills, and a genuine passion for information. Technology is always evolving, so you will need to stay current. The information you know now may be obsolete next year. Read computer magazines, follow popular computing blogs, and stay familiar with the latest in software technology. Upgrade to the newest operating systems when they are released. Join beta-testing groups for various operating systems and apps so you can be among the first to get hands-on experience. 15. **Define the problem.** When it comes down to it, the way you will be able to show off your genius computer skills is by solving problems. Troubleshooting is one of the most important skills to have in the IT industry.When you’re experiencing a computer issue, start by figuring out what exactly is going on. Defining the problem as “The mouse doesn’t work” is too broad—narrow it down to the precise behavior or error message, such as “When I connect the mouse to the USB port, I see a message that says “This IRQ is assigned to the keyboard.” 16. **Sharpen your Google skills.** One of the most important skills a genius-in-the-making must learn is how to find information. There’s an art to getting accurate information about computer problems with Google. Use quotes (“) around exact words and phrases (“this IRQ is assigned to the keyboard” instead of irq assigned to keyboard) to make sure your results match what you are looking for. Using Google to search a single site. If you’re looking for information about wireless networking and prefer your results be from Microsoft.com, type mouse problems site:microsoft.com instead of mouse problems microsoft. Filter results by date (often relevant, as computers are always changing) by clicking “Search Tools” at the top of the search results, then change “Any time” to a different time range. 17. **Read the search results thoroughly, and not just the first page.** While the manufacturer’s product pages may be among the first search results, some of the best troubleshooting information will come from user forums. It will not take you long to figure out which sites return good search results and which should be avoided. If your search for information brings you to a page that seemingly has little to do with what you searched, that source will not be useful to you. 18. **Join forums to gain insight into problems experienced by users like you.** Don’t be afraid to ask questions—but before you do, try using the forum’s “search” feature to reduce the possibility of duplicating an already-resolved thread. Many online forums will not allow you to search their content until you register for an account. 19. **Fix your friends’ and family’s computers.** Now that you’ve been practicing your troubleshooting skills, find opportunities to get hands-on experience. Ask people you know if they are having trouble with their computers, and then offer to fix them. Use your new skills to find other people online who’ve experienced similar issues and try implementing suggested fixes. 20. **Set up a test computer.** Computer geniuses learn how to troubleshoot by breaking things. Rather than messing with the computer you use every day, get yourself a test computer (or even better—a test lab with several types of computers) so you can really get your hands dirty. 21. **Run system updates.** Make sure you are using the latest and greatest version of your operating system by checking for system updates. Updating operating system software may cause older applications to break. Frustrating! However, finding fixes for such issues is great for improving your troubleshooting skills! 22. **Think about what you might be able to add to your computer to make it better.** Ask yourself some questions: What frustrates me about my computer? What can I not do with my computer that others can do with theirs? Once you have some answers, you should be able to determine what kind of hardware or software would improve your experience. 23. **Browse forums for your specific type of computer to see what sorts of upgrades others are doing.** Even if you decide not to do any upgrades, you’ll still learn a lot about the different possible configurations for your computer. 24. **Pick something about computers that interests you.** Is it web design? Great-looking video? Programming in Python? Becoming an expert on a single topic is an excellent way to assert yourself as a computer genius. 25. **Read articles about your topic online.** Use your new Google search wizardry to find up-to-date articles about the topic that interests you. You should also: Find (and follow) blogs that are dedicated to that topic. Join forums for users who share your interest in that topic. 26. **Watch YouTube instructional videos about your topic.** Interested in learning how to set up Wordpress? Fixing broken motherboard components? You will find plenty of instructional videos for just about anything on YouTube. 27. **Look into classes that focus on your topic.** If you’re enrolled in college, check to see if classes on that subject are offered. Don’t forget community colleges—they provide a wide variety of courses at a cheaper rate than a university. If you would rather learn from home, there are plenty of online courses available in a wide variety of topics. Some courses are even available for free on sites like Khan Academy and Coursera. You may even find a course on Youtube.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Computer-Genius", "language": "en"}

How to Clean Wooden Bowls

Wooden bowls add warmth and style to your decor or dining room table settings, but they require different care than standard glass or plastic dishes. With regular washing and occasional treatments with oil, wooden bowls will last years. When you have tough stains or buildup, try salt and lemon juice or buff your bowls gently with sandpaper. 1. **Wash the bowl by hand with warm, soapy water.** Grab a soft washcloth or a soft sponge and put a few drops of mild dish soap on it. Soak the cloth or sponge with hot water and wipe the bowl down thoroughly inside and outside. In the process, don’t submerge or soak the bowl in the water. Wooden bowls absorb water easily, which is why you shouldn’t soak or submerge them. It’s important, for the same reason, that you never put wooden bowls in the dishwasher. Don’t use a scrubbing pad or steel wool unless your bowl has a tough buildup. Soft cloths and sponges are enough for basic cleaning. Wash the bowl right after you use it to ensure stains don't set in. 2. **Rinse the bowl with warm water.** After a quick but thorough wash, rinse the entire bowel with hot water. Be sure not to submerge the bowl in the water when you rinse it. It’s important to get all of the soap off of the bowl so it doesn’t get scummy. Try to rinse the bowl in about five seconds rather than letting it linger in the running water. 3. **Dry the wooden bowl with a clean towel.** Wipe the entire bowl down with a clean, dry towel to remove as much of the moisture as you can. Because wood retains water easily, you will not be able to get it completely dry with a towel. Just make sure that it is only slightly damp when you finish. It may help to press the towel into the bowls more than you would when drying other materials. The pressure will draw some of the moisture out. 4. **Set the bowl in a drying rack to finish drying.** After drying the bowl with a towel, put the bowl in a drying rack and allow it to sit until it is completely dry. You may need to let the bowl sit overnight to dry completely. Check the bowl after a few hours if you don’t want to leave it overnight. Don’t put a wooden bowl that is still wet into the cabinet, as this might keep it from drying completely and can ruin the bowl or cause mildew. 5. **Give wooden bowls a deep clean with salt and lemon.** Every so often, your wooden bowls can use a deeper clean than soap and water. Pour some coarse (large grain) salt into the bowl. Cut a lemon in half, and rub the juicy pulp over the surface of the bowl. Briefly wash with hot water and mild dish soap after scrubbing. Lemon juice is commonly used as a disinfectant and the salt provides a slight abrasion to the bowl’s surface. A lime can be used, also, and regular table salt will have a similar effect. Scrub the outside of the bowl, too. 6. **Disinfect wooden bowls with vinegar and water.** Mix three tablespoons (44.4 ml) of white vinegar into one cup (240 ml) of hot water. Dip a washcloth into the mixture and rub the entire surface of the bowls with the solution. Let the vinegar sit for five minutes, then follow the standard washing procedure afterward. Depending on how often you use the bowls, disinfect them after every five uses or so. 7. **Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently buff away buildup.** If you have been using your bowls for years, they may develop stuck-on residue. Take fine-grit sandpaper and gently rub it with the grain of the wood. This will remove a thin layer of buildup. Sand a little bit out from the bad spot to blend it in with the rest of the bowl. You only need to sand the area that has a lot of buildup, not the entire bowl, but if the entire bowl has buildup, it’s okay to lightly sand the whole thing. Remember, you only want to buff away the extra, non-wood layer that has developed. Don’t apply so much pressure that you start taking off wood. 8. **Buy food grade mineral oil.** Wooden bowls can become dry and may eventually crack, so it is important to treat them with oil sometimes. When you’re looking for oil at the store, make sure it is labeled as food grade. You may also find mineral oil that specifically says it is for cutting boards, butcher blocks, or wooden dishware. You may find mineral oil that is not specifically labelled as food grade. Some of this is safe for consumption and some of it isn’t. If you’re unsure, look for “white mineral oil,” as this is the kind that has been refined enough for consumption. 9. **Wipe the entire surface of the bowl with mineral oil.** Take a clean, dry paper towel and pour a small circle of mineral oil onto it. Wipe the bowl completely, inside and outside, with the mineral oil. Apply the oil in some kind of pattern to make sure you don’t mis any spots. Don’t be afraid of putting too much oil on the bowl. If it seems like the first application soaked into the bowl, put a second, or even third, coat onto it. Depending on how much you use your bowls. Treat them with mineral oil every couple of months or at least two times a year. 10. **Let the bowl sit overnight.** Set the bowl on a clean spot on the counter or table and leave it overnight. The oil will soak partially into the wood, moisturizing it and coating the surface. If you are in a hurry, try to let the oil sit for at least 30 minutes. Allowing the mineral oil to sit for a short time will still help the bowls last, but not as well as letting the oil soak in for longer. 11. **Wipe the excess oil off of the bowl with a clean paper towel.** After the bowl has sat and soaked in most of the oil, take another dry paper towel and wipe the entire surface of the bowl. There will be some oil that doesn’t soak into the wood, and it is best to remove this excess. Discard the paper towel afterward. Put them back in the cabinet for later use, or go ahead and use them now. The purpose of using food grade oil is that it’s safe for consumption.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Wooden-Bowls", "language": "en"}

How to Be More Alert

Most of us experience times when we wish we felt more alert. You may be sitting in a meeting worrying how you will make it to the end. You might have to stay alert for a long drive. Perhaps you struggle with insomnia and find it difficult to function during the day. Regardless of the reason, you can take measures to increase your alertness immediately. 1. **Grab a cup of coffee, but not too much coffee.** It’s no surprise that coffee contains caffeine that will help you feel more alert, but overindulging in caffeine can make you feel sluggish and drowsy. To feel more alert without being too jittery or suffering from sleeplessness, restrict your intake to 2 to 3 cups per day. People react differently to caffeine, so cut back if you start feeling nervous, experience stomach upset, or think the coffee might be disturbing your sleep. Research indicates that up to 400 milligrams of coffee per day, which is equivalent to about 4 cups of coffee, is safe for healthy adults. When you drink coffee, stay away from sugary options that will leave you feeling sluggish and out of it when the sugar high is over. 2. **Drink plenty of water.** Dehydration can cause you to feel draggy and less alert, so drink water throughout the day to remain hydrated and more aware of your surroundings. If you feel less alert, try to drink one to two glasses of water right away. Pass up sugary drinks such as sodas, energy beverages, and sweet juices that will cause an energy crash soon after consuming. 3. **Take deep breaths.** When you take deep breaths, you lower your heart rate and blood pressure and improve your circulation. This will increase your energy level and mental focus so you can be more alert. Try this basic exercise you can perform anywhere: Sit up straight. Place one hand on your stomach, just beneath your ribs. Place your other hand on your chest. Try to inhale through your nose. You should feel your stomach pushing your hand outward. Try to keep your chest from moving. Now, pretend you are whistling and breathe out while pursing your lips. Perform 10 repetitions as needed. 4. **Maintain good posture.** Your ballet instructor was right when he or she emphasized the importance of excellent posture. Slouching and adopting poor posture can cause fatigue and make you less alert. If you are seated, make sure your shoulders are back, your eyes are facing straight ahead, and your butt is touching the back of the chair. Try not to hunch over your desk or computer. 5. **Try a power nap.** If you are feeling groggy and less than alert, try taking a quick 10 to 20 minute power nap. A short nap won’t negatively impact your sleep schedule that night, and you should wake up feeling more alert. If you have trouble napping, just rest with your eyes closed for 10 minutes. You can still enjoy the benefits of a power nap. 6. **Chew a piece of gum.** If you are having a hard time being alert, try chewing a piece of gum. Some research indicates that this can help you feel more awake and energized. 7. **Listen to music and sing along.** If you are at home or driving and need to feel more alert, turn on your music and sing along. Singing forces you to manage your breathing, while providing a boost of energy. This exercise might not be appropriate for a workplace environment, so wait till you are in a place where people won’t file a noise complaint. 8. **Enjoy comedy relief.** You probably already know that laughter can relieve stress, but it can also increase your alertness. When you want to feel more alert, watch a funny video or spend some time with a friend who makes you giggle. 9. **Opt for a cold shower.** While warm showers or baths are relaxing, they can make you feel sleepy and snuggly rather than alert. To combat this, opt for a bracing 3-minute cold shower instead. You will immediately feel more alert and aware. 10. **Complete an aerobic workout.** When you exercise, you increase blood flow, oxygen levels, and energy to all parts of your body—including the brain—which means you will be more alert. Researchers have also found that regular aerobic exercise such as walking, running, jogging, and riding a bike can reverse cognitive decline. 11. **Participate in team sports.** If you watch college or professional athletes play sports, you can observe their laser focus and intense concentration. Although you are probably not at that skill level, you can still benefit from the improved reflexes and better concentration that result from participating in team sports. Team sports such as baseball, basketball, tennis, soccer, and football are an excellent way to be more alert because you have to pay attention to where your teammates and opposing team members are, where the ball is currently located, and where the ball is headed. If you are looking for a less serious game, consider trying kickball or dodgeball. 12. **Try a new type of exercise.** Try a type of exercise that is new to you and involves more complex movements such as rock climbing, gymnastics, martial arts, pilates, skating, or fencing. The act of having to learn how to do something different and perform the new maneuvers will help strengthen your brain and boost your memory power, which should make you more alert. 13. **Spend 20 minutes per day outside.** Spending 20 minutes a day outside will help you feel more energized and alert. Go for a walk or jog in the park. Conduct your workout routine outside in your backyard or neighborhood. Head to the woods or hiking trails on the weekend. 14. **Perform yoga.** Yoga can help tone your body and relieve your anxiety, but it also improves your focus and concentration. Try a yoga routine when you want to feel more alert. 15. **Schedule your workout for the middle of the day.** Research suggests that a mid-afternoon workout can help you feel more alert and energetic than taking a nap. 16. **Make sure you eat regularly.** If you are not eating regularly, you will have a hard time feeling alert and your mood will also deteriorate. Eat healthy meals during the day, and pack snacks you can munch on when you start to feel less alert. Eating small meals or snacks every few hours will help you keep your energy levels high and elevate your mood. Yogurt, nuts, fresh fruit, baby carrots, and peanut butter on a whole wheat cracker make excellent high-energy snacks. 17. **Choose foods that contain complex carbs.** Foods with complex carbohydrates and whole grains help fuel your brain and will leave you feeling more alert. When you’re feeling out of it, opt for oatmeal, whole-grain breads and pasta, beans, lentils, and green vegetables. Pass on cookies, cakes, and foods with lots of sugar because these will not provide lasting energy. Try to stay away from processed and fast foods. 18. **Fill up on antioxidant-rich foods.Try these foods that are full of antioxidants:** Raspberries. Strawberries. Blueberries. Apples. Bananas. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale. Beans. Carrots. Tea, especially green tea. 19. **Consume foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids.** Omega-3 fatty acids help keep the brain working properly, so eat foods such as fish and nuts to improve brain power and be more alert. 20. **Eat a piece of chocolate.** In addition to caffeine, chocolate contains flavonoids that can improve your cognitive skills and make you feel more alert. Dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate have more flavonoids than milk chocolate. You don’t have to eat a king size candy bar to benefit from the chocolate, so don’t overdo it. 21. **Get the right amount of sleep.** Not getting enough sleep and oversleeping can leave you feeling groggy and less alert. Medical experts recommend 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. To feel more alert, establishing a routine is also important. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. 22. **Adjust the temperature in your room.** If it’s too cold in your room or too warm, you can start to feel sleepy and foggy. To be more alert, try increasing or lowering the temperature in your room. Researchers have concluded that the optimal room temperature for sleep is about 65 degrees Fahrenheit, so adjusting the temperature a few degrees in either direction can help you wake up and feel more focused. If you are in a work environment or place where you do not have control over the thermostat, bring a sweater or jacket with you so you can easily warm up or cool off to feel more alert. 23. **Keep a plant in your home or office.** Plants enhance your mood and make you less stressed. Try bringing a plant to keep in your workspace or at home to feel more awake. 24. **Let the sun shine in.** Sitting in a darkened room can make you feel less alert because it interferes with the body’s circadian rhythms. Open the curtains or blinds and let the sun shine in. If you live in a place where it is seldom sunny or it’s currently dark outside, research indicates that turning on lights can also help you feel more alert. If you are in a meeting and need to feel more alert, select a seat by a sunny window. 25. **Consider herbal supplements and vitamins.** Although it’s best to talk with your doctor before introducing any herbal supplements or vitamins to your daily routine, you may want to consider trying some of the options below that have been shown to make people more alert: A vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause memory problems and low energy. The recommended dosage for people age 14 and older is 2.4 micrograms per day. Many multivitamins already contain B-12, so unless you have been diagnosed with a vitamin B-12 deficiency, you may already be getting sufficient levels. Ginseng, according to some research, may elevate your mood and energy levels, which will make you more alert. There are no standard dosages, so talk with your doctor or a pharmacist about how much to take. Make sure you purchase ginseng from a reputable health food store or online retailer because it is expensive and many retailers add filler ingredients to their supplements. Guarana is an herb high in caffeine that some people believe can help improve mental focus. Check with your doctor about the right dosage for you, but many people trying to be more alert take 200 to 800 milligrams of guarana per day. If you already consume a lot of caffeine, you should use this cautiously because it may disrupt your sleep. Many pharmacies and health food stores also sell specific energy or alertness vitamins and supplements. 26. **Avoid substances that make you less alert.** Drugs and alcohol slow your reaction time, dull your responses, and make you less alert. Avoid these substances if you want to focus, concentrate, and be on your game. 27. **Seek medical advice.** If you are having a hard time staying alert, it’s a good idea to talk with a medical professional as soon as possible. There may be an underlying condition causing your symptoms that is best diagnosed and treated by a doctor. 28. **Read regularly.** Although you might have to read emails and reports for your job, not many people read regularly for fun. Reading requires you to be active and alert, so pick up a good book and get started. If you are trying to get in the habit of reading more often, start with a goal of reading one new book each month or every few weeks. Then, you can gradually increase your goal. Joining or starting a book club is a great way to get in the habit of reading more often. You will also boost your brain power and alertness by discussing the books with your book group. 29. **Play games.** To train yourself to be more alert while having a good time, try playing games. Word searches, chess, crossword puzzles, and sudoku can help help you retain information and concentrate. 30. **Create challenges that force you to focus.** Try setting up challenges that force your brain to be alert and on point. Here are a few simple ideas: Count items in your environment such as stop signs, coffee shops, or a type of tree. You can do this on your way to work or school, and while you are walking, driving, or riding a bike. Watch a digital clock that displays the seconds. Occasionally, the clock will skip a second. It’s your job to identify when that happens. To increase the level of difficulty, add distractions to the mix by turning on a radio or television in the background. 31. **Try to think quickly.** When you find yourself feeling foggy and less alert, try to force yourself out of your slump by thinking quickly. Here are a few easy ideas to start with: Increase your reading pace to feel more alert. Start a conversation about a stimulating topic such as politics. Work with classmates or colleagues to plan and brainstorm about a specific topic, and enjoy the surge of adrenaline. Learn about something new and interesting to increase your level of alertness. 32. **Try mindfulness meditation.** Practicing mindful meditation can help you improve your concentration and focus so you can become more alert.While there are many mindfulness meditation exercises you can do, here is a quick example that will help you feel more focused and aware: Find a quiet location free from as many distractions as possible. Then, pick a position where you are comfortable, but alert. Slowly take a deep breath in, paying attention to how your breath feels when it enters your body. Next, exhale slowly while concentrating on what it feels like when your breath leaves your body. It’s normal to feel distracted, but try to focus only on your breathing. Noticing when your mind drifts and you become distracted is an important step in training yourself to be more alert. When this happens, don’t feel bad. Instead, just calmly refocus on your breath.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-More-Alert", "language": "en"}

How to Bake Thick Cut Bacon

If you love chewy, thick-cut bacon but have a hard time cooking it on the stove, bake it in the oven! To make classic thick-cut bacon, lay the strips on a foil-lined sheet and bake them until they're crisped. For a sweet and smoky flavor, use smoked bacon and brush it with maple syrup a few minutes before it's finished baking. You can make decadent thick-cut bacon by topping it with a brown sugar pecan mixture that will cook on top of the bacon as the strips become golden brown. 1. **Preheat the oven to 400 °F (204 °C) and line a sheet with foil.** Use a large, rimmed baking sheet to catch the grease. Lining the bottom and sides of the sheet with aluminum foil will make clean up easier. 2. **Lay the bacon in a single layer on the foil.** Get out 1 pound (453 g) of thick-cut bacon and lay the strips in a single layer on the foil. The strips can touch each other, but avoid overlapping them or they won't cook evenly. If you want crispier bacon, set a baking rack on the foil-lined sheet. Arrange the bacon on the rack, so air circulates under the bacon as it cooks. 3. **Bake the thick-cut bacon for 10 minutes.** Put the sheet in the preheated oven and cook the bacon for 10 minutes before you check it. Depending on how thick the bacon is and how chewy you like your bacon, it could be finished after 10 minutes. 4. **Cook the bacon for another 10 minutes, if desired.** If you want your bacon to crisp up more, continue to cook it for another 10 minutes before you check it again. You don't need to flip the bacon. 5. **Transfer the bacon to a plate and serve it.** Lay a few paper towels on a plate or platter and wear oven mitts to take the sheet of bacon out of the oven. Use tongs to transfer the bacon to the plate. The paper towels will absorb excess grease. Serve the bacon immediately. 6. **Store leftover bacon for 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator.** Place the bacon in an airtight container. You can use the bacon while it's cold, keeping in mind that the bacon will lose its crispiness as it's stored. To reheat the bacon, heat the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until the bacon is heated through. You can also reheat the bacon in the microwave. Set the bacon on a microwave-safe plate and heat the bacon in 20-second increments until it's heated through. 7. **Preheat the oven to 400 °F (204 °C) and lay foil on a baking sheet.** Cover the sides and bottom of a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. If you don't have aluminum foil, you can use parchment paper. Set a baking rack on the sheet. 8. **Lay the bacon on the rack.** Arrange 3/4 pound (340 g) of thick-cut smoked bacon on the rack so the slices aren't touching. 9. **Cook the bacon for 15 to 20 minutes.** Put the sheet in the preheated oven and cook the bacon until it starts to turn brown and crispy around the edges. 10. **Brush the bacon with maple syrup.** Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) of maple syrup into a small prep bowl. Put on oven mitts and use them to take the baking sheet out of the oven. Dip a pastry or barbecue brush in the maple syrup and spread it over each slice of bacon. For the best result, use real maple syrup (not pancake syrup) for this recipe. Use caution when handling the sheet because there will be hot grease under the baking rack. 11. **Cook the bacon for 3 to 5 minutes.** Put the sheet back in the oven and cook it until the bacon is completely browned and crispy. 12. **Serve the bacon.** Remove the sheet from the oven and lay paper towels on a serving platter. Use tongs to transfer the bacon from the rack to the paper-towel lined platter and serve the slices immediately. 13. **Refrigerate leftover bacon for 4 to 5 days.** Put the bacon in an airtight container. If you like, use the bacon while it's cold, keeping in mind that the bacon will lose its crispiness as it's stored. You can also reheat the bacon by heating it in a skillet over medium heat until the bacon is heated through. You can also reheat the bacon in the microwave. Set the bacon on a microwave-safe plate and heat the bacon in 20-second increments until it's heated through. 14. **Preheat the oven to 375 °F (191 °C) and line a sheet with parchment paper.** If you don't have parchment paper, you could use aluminum foil. Ensure that the bottom and sides of the rimmed baking sheet are covered. 15. **Arrange the bacon on a rack on top of a parchment paper-lined sheet.** Set a baking rack on the foil-lined sheet. Take 8 slices of thick-cut bacon and lay them on the baking rack so there's at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between them. The rack will allow air to circulate under the bacon, so it becomes crispy. 16. **Cook the bacon for 15 minutes.** Put the baking sheet with bacon in the preheated oven. Cook the bacon until it begins to crisp a little at the edges, but hasn't finished cooking in the center. This should take 15 minutes. 17. **Mix the pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, and cayenne.** Get out a small bowl and put 1/2 cup (65 g) of finely chopped pecans into it. Stir in 1/2 cup (100 g) of brown sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) of maple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of cayenne powder. The mixture should be sandy. 18. **Spread the praline mixture over the bacon.** Remove the sheet of bacon from the oven and divide the praline mixture evenly among the strips. Use a spoon to spread the mixture across each strip. 19. **Bake the maple praline bacon for 8 to 10 minutes.** Return the sheet to the oven and cook the bacon until it's completely baked and the topping becomes crispy. This should take 8 to 10 minutes. 20. **Serve the bacon or let it cool.** Transfer the maple praline bacon to a platter and serve it immediately. If you'd like the praline to harden, let it cool completely or refrigerate it before serving. 21. **Refrigerate the leftover bacon for 4 to 5 days.** Put the bacon in an airtight container. Use the bacon while it's still cold. You won't be able to reheat the bacon because the praline will liquefy and run off of the bacon.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Bake-Thick-Cut-Bacon", "language": "en"}

How to Lower Cyanuric Acid in a Pool

Cyanuric acid is a chemical that improves the longevity and effectiveness of chlorine in an outdoor pool. Working almost like a “sunblock” for the chlorine, it protects the chlorine from becoming diluted and helps keep your pool cleaner for longer. However, if the levels of cyanuric acid in your pool go above 80 parts per million (ppm), it can do more harm than good. By diluting or draining your pool to lower the levels, or by using a cyanuric acid reducer, you can easily restore the chemistry of your pool. 1. **Rent or buy a submersible sump pump.** A submersible sump pump is a device that will be able to drain your pool quickly. Many hardware stores will offer to rent them to you for around a day at a time or may have them for sale. Buy a pump for long-term use or rent one early in the day to drain your swimming pool. If you often have difficulties balancing your pool chemistry, it may be worth it to purchase a submersible sump pump. Your local pool store may also have submersible sump pumps that available for rental or purchase. Alternately, you could ask a friend with a pool if they have one you could borrow. 2. **Dilute your pool water if the levels are above 80 ppm.** The easiest way to lower the levels of cyanuric acid in your pool is to simply dilute the water. Partially drain your swimming pool by the same percentage by which you want to reduce your cyanuric levels. Calculate the percentage by which you want to reduce the cyanuric acid level and remove around the same percentage of water from your pool. It’s easier to add cyanuric acid to the pool than it is to remove it, so it’s better to overcompensate and dilute the water more than you think you need to. 3. **Drain and refill your pool if you have cyanuric levels over 100 ppm.** If your cyanuric acid levels are too high, the easiest solution is to completely drain the pool and fill it with fresh water. Use a submersible sump pump to empty your pool completely. Take advantage of your empty pool and give it a good clean. Use a calcium, lime, and rust remover to clean away calcium or scale rings. Check your local guidelines for more information on where the water you drain from your pool should go. In many cases, you can drain the water into a clean out. A clean out is a small pipe located near the bottom of your home, often near a bathroom or kitchen. Water sent into the clean out will drain into the sewer and be reused by the city. 4. **Refill your pool.** Once your pool has been drained partially or completely, you can begin refilling it with clean water. Run 1 or more garden hoses into the bottom of your pool and turn them on. Keep an eye on the pool while it fills up to prevent it from overflowing. The water level should be roughly halfway up the pool skimmer. 5. **Wait for 3 to 4 hours and test the water again.** It will take a few hours for the new water to settle into the pool and for the chemistry to balance. After 3 or 4 hours, use a water test strip or a water quality test kit to check the levels of chlorine and cyanuric acid in your pool. Your pool should have a chlorine level between 2.0 and 3.0 ppm and a cyanuric acid level between 30 and 50 ppm. If these levels are right, then you shouldn’t need to do anything more to alter them. 6. **Add cyanuric acid** Follow the manufacturer's instructions or use a cyanuric acid calculator to determine how much acid you need to add. Dissolve the cyanuric acid in roughly 5 gallons (19 L) of water and pour it into your pool. Water chemistry and cyanuric acid calculators can be found online and will do all the math needed to work out how much cyanuric acid you should add. 7. **Leave your pool filter to run for 3 to 4 hours.** The pool filter will help cycle the cyanuric acid through your pool and evenly distribute it in the water. Make sure it is running and let it work for 3 to 4 hours. Test your cyanuric acid levels after the filter has had time to run to make sure it is at a safe level. If you have frequent problems with cyanuric acid levels, there may be something else wrong. 8. **Test the chlorine levels of your pool water.** Most cyanuric acid reducers won’t work as effectively in an over-chlorinated swimming pool. Check the chlorine level in your pool with a water test kit or test strip. If the chlorine levels are above 5.0 ppm, leave the pool exposed to sunlight or use a chlorine neutralizer to lower it. A chlorine level of around 2 to 3 ppm is usually best for a swimming pool. Most basic test kits and test strips should be able to accurately test for chlorine. 9. **Purchase a cyanuric acid reducer.** There are a few cyanuric acid reducers available that may be able to lower the levels of cyanuric acid in your pool without needing to drain or dilute it. Ask at your local pool store or look online for a cyanuric acid reducer appropriate for the size of your pool. You will need roughly 8 ounces (230 g) of cyanuric acid reducer for every 10,000 gallons (38,000 L). 10. **Pour the reducer into your pool skimmer.** The pool skimmer is the point in your pool where water will be able to enter the filter, which should be accessible from the outside of the pool. Remove the cover and pour in your cyanuric acid reducer. Some swimming pools will have more than 1 skimmer. If your pool has more than 1, pick a skimmer near the middle of the pool to pour your reducer into. 11. **Let your pool filter run for 4 hours.** The pool filter will help cycle the reducer through your entire pool and work with all of the cyanuric acid throughout your system. Once you pour in the reducer, make sure your pool filter is running and leave it to work undisturbed for 3 to 4 hours. Test the pool water once the filter has been left to run to make sure the cyanuric acid reducer has worked. If it hasn’t, you may need to partially or completely drain your swimming pool and refill. 12. **Use specialty test strips for a quick and simple check.** While most water test strips will only check for chlorine and pH levels, some more advanced or specialty strips will be able to check the levels of cyanuric acid. Purchase a water test strip that can detect cyanuric acid, dip it into your pool water for 30 seconds, and use the attached guide to check the levels. Water test strips that can check levels of cyanuric acid should be available online or at your local specialty pool store. Always follow the manufacturer’s guide for your own water test strips, as different strips may work differently. If the cyanuric acid levels in your pool are too high, you might not be able to read them with a standard test strip. Take a water sample to your local pool store and ask them to test it. This will give you a much more accurate and reliable reading. 13. **Opt for a water quality test kit for a more thorough examination.** Water quality test kits tend to be more reliable and accurate than test strips, but will also be more costly as a result. Purchase a water quality test kit that can check cyanuric acid level and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to check the levels. Water quality test kits should be available online or from your local specialty pool store. Most will involve taking a water sample and adding chemicals that change color based on the presence of different colors. For the best results, follow the instructions on your test kit. 14. **Keep your cyanuric acid levels between 30 and 50 ppm.** There’s a lot of discussion around the most effective level of cyanuric acid to keep in your pool. Levels between 30 and 50 ppm (particles per million) tend to work well, although levels up to 80 ppm can be safe. Check your cyanuric acid levels to make sure they are in the safe limits. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that your cyanuric levels stay below 100 ppm. If your level is above 100 ppm, you should dilute the water or refill your pool to lower it. Too much cyanuric acid can overwhelm the chlorine in your pool and stop it from working at all. If you add too much cyanuric acid and the levels get too high, you’ll need to replace the water and fill it with chlorine and cyanuric acid again to keep it clean. If your cyanuric levels are too high, you might not be able to read them with a consumer grade water test kit. Take a sample of your water to a specialty pool store to get it tested further before attempting to lower the cyanuric acid in your pool. 15. **Check your pool water quality each week and after heavy rain.** The amount of cyanuric acid in your pool can change on a frequent basis as the water is filtered and diluted. To keep your cyanuric levels consistent and avoid having to raise them, check the levels at least once a week and after heavy rain. If your cyanuric levels fall too low, the chlorine in your pool will be destroyed by the sun’s UV rays and stop it from working. This will leave your pool water more vulnerable to contaminants and give you a dirty pool.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Lower-Cyanuric-Acid-in-a-Pool", "language": "en"}

How to Make Tempura

If you've enjoyed tempura in Japanese restaurants, you know that the dish is an unforgettable treat. Although tempura may seem exotic, it isn't difficult to make at home. Nearly any food can be fried in tempura batter, including fish, squid, prawns, cauliflower, zucchini, broccoli, onion, carrot, cucumbers, or even chunks of fruit or squash blossoms. The result is hot, golden brown, light and crispy. 1. **Place about a cup of ice water in a medium-sized mixing bowl.** 2. **Stir in one large egg.** Remove the egg from the refrigerator just before adding, as the egg should be well-chilled. 3. **Stir 3/4 cup of flour and 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda into the egg mixture.** 4. **Mix the batter lightly and don't worry about a few small lumps of unmixed flour.** Too much mixing will result in doughy, non-crispy tempura. 5. **Keep the tempura batter in the refrigerator while you prepare the foods for frying.** 6. **Prepare the foods for frying in the tempura batter ahead of time.** If you are making fish tempura, wash and debone the fish, then cut the fish into small chunks. If you are using shrimp in your tempura, the shrimp should be de-veined. 7. **Use the freshest, firmest vegetables you can find to make vegetable tempura.** Wash the vegetables thoroughly. 8. **Cut the vegetables into chunks.** Avoid soft vegetables, as soft vegetables will become soggy when the vegetables are deep-fried. 9. **Pat the food dry with paper towels.** Place the food in the refrigerator until you're ready to deep fry. 10. **Set the bowl of homemade tempura batter in a larger bowl filled with ice water.** Tempura batter should be kept cold while you work. 11. **Season the cut veggies.** This will add flavor to the food, and also wick away moisture, making the batter stick better. 12. **Place 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) of cooking oil in a heavy frying pan.** You can use nearly any type of oil, including canola, safflower, corn or peanut oil. However, avoid olive oil, which will alter the flavor of the tempura. If you are using a deep fat fryer, fill the fryer to the level recommended by the manufacturer. 13. **Heat the oil to 350 degrees.** If you don't have a thermometer, heat the oil then drop about a pea-sized bit of batter into the oil. If the oil is hot enough, the batter will drop to the bottom before it sizzles and bounces quickly to the top of the oil. 14. **Using your hands or chopsticks, dip the prepared food into the tempura batter, making sure to coat it on all sides.** It is helpful to place your batter near the oil so you don't spill on the counter when moving it to the oil. 15. **Move the battered food directly from the bowl of batter into the hot oil.** Remember to place it in the oil gently so it does not splash. 16. **Turn each piece once so the food cooks evenly on both sides.** Cook the tempura until the batter is golden brown. 17. **Remove the fried tempura with tongs, then place on a layer of folded paper towels.** 18. **Finished.**

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Tempura", "language": "en"}

How to Revoke Power of Attorney

This article is written for persons living in the United States - individuals who have made a Power of Attorney in another jurisdiction should check the laws for that jurisdiction, as the requirements to legally revoke a Power of Attorney are different from place to place. Revoking a power of attorney document in the United States is a relatively simple process, but it requires precise steps in order to revoke the document in a way that cannot be ambiguous to banks, health care authorities, etc. By taking a few minutes to learn how to revoke a power of attorney, you can easily change the terms of the document before executing a new power of attorney document if you choose. 1. **Learn who can revoke power of attorney.** The person for whom the document provides power of attorney is known as the principal. The principal is the only one who can revoke the power of attorney (POA) while the principal is competent. If the document names the agent (this is the person receiving power of attorney for the principal) a “durable power of attorney”—meaning the power of attorney includes the principal becoming incapacitated—the family of the principal can take the agent to court to attempt to get a judge to revoke the POA. It’s very rare that this happens because it is difficult for anyone other than the principal to sue the agent over the POA because typically only the principal has standing. 2. **Decide your route of revocation.** You have different options to proceed. You can revoke your power of attorney document altogether. You can also choose to revoke your current power of attorney document in order to execute a new one with different terms or a new agent. If you choose to execute a new power of attorney, you’ll need both parts of this article. 3. **Learn your state’s procedure.** Because all states have different procedures dealing with revocation of a power of attorney document, make sure you check the specific laws where you live before proceeding. In some states (such as West Virginia), a power of attorney can be revoked simply by the principal informing the agent of the revocation and destroying all copies of the power of attorney. However, most states require a more thorough approach. Most states also require that the principal sign a revocation document stating that the power of attorney is revoked. Some states require this document to be signed in front of a notary. Even if the state where you live does not legally require the signature to be notarized, signing in front of a notary eliminates any doubt as to the authenticity of the signature. 4. **Send the form to any third parties.** If you sent the power of attorney document to any third parties, such as banks or physicians, make sure that you send them the document revoking the power of attorney. You can either send this document through the mail or take it to the third party’s office in person. If you send your revocation through the mail, be aware that the revocation will not be recognized until it is received. Therefore, if your agent acts in accordance with the power of attorney document before the revocation reaches the third party (for example, a bank) the bank can not be held liable for any money taken or used by the agent in conjunction with the power of attorney. However, in this situation, you would be able to recover against the agent for any damages as long as you can prove the agent knew that the power of attorney had been revoked. 5. **Check your state’s requirements.** Requirements for a power of attorney are similar in most states, but some have special forms to fill out. To check whether or not your state has special forms for power of attorney, you can check here. If your situation is complicated, consider hiring an attorney to help you and your loved ones carry out the proper requirements for granting power of attorney. Usually, the document granting power of attorney must: Clearly identify the principal (the person who is granting the power) Clearly identify the agent (the person who will have the specified powers) Specify exactly what legal acts the agent is entitled to perform 6. **Download or write a power of attorney form.** Most states don't require government-written legal documents. However, in order to prevent any confusion and to make sure that both parties know exactly what authority is being granted, it's a good idea to use a state-issued form as a template. The specifics of the form will vary by state. For example, Wisconsin and Nevada have different provisions for their forms. Federal tax form 2848 applies to power of attorney for tax purposes as well. 7. **Name the parties.** The form should include the full name of the “principal,” the person granting power of attorney. It should also name the "agent," the person to whom the power is being granted. Alternate agents may also be named, in the event that the first agent is unable or unwilling to act on his or her authority. For example, say “Jack Nimble” is the principal and “Jill Quick” is the agent. They should be referred to by those names, not just simply “Jack” and “Jill.” 8. **Name the powers granted.** Make sure that you clearly and specifically identify the powers that are being granted to the agent, when those powers will take effect, and when (if ever) those powers will cease to have an effect. This will prevent confusion. For example, instead of saying that the agent “has power over the principal’s finances,” say that the agent “has the power to withdraw money and make payments from the principal’s three bank accounts: bank account X, bank account Y, and bank account Z.” If the power of attorney is durable, it's especially important to make sure that the principal and the agent are in agreement about what responsibilities and authorities are being transferred. 9. **Stipulate whether the agreement is “durable.”** If the principal wants the agent to have control over certain legal matters (financial or medical) immediately, and wants that power to continue to be valid after the principal has become incapacitated, choose a durable power of attorney. Make sure the form stipulates whether the powers are "springing durable," which means they take effect at a later date and will be not be revoked if the principal becomes incapacitated. Keep in mind that all states have different laws regarding power of attorney, and, in some states, a springing durable power of attorney cannot be legally used. Many seriously ill people choose a durable power of attorney because they want their agent to continue to make their decisions after they can no longer communicate their wishes, and, because of their illness, want the power of attorney to go immediately into effect. A situation for a springing power of attorney could be when the principal specifies in the power of attorney document that the agent would not have power until the principal was 75 years old, but once the principal reached that age, the agent would have the specified powers, regardless of the principal’s capacity. 10. **Note powers that a principal cannot confer.** Make sure that the principal and agent know that some powers cannot be conferred under state law. If the power of attorney purports to transfer a power under state law that cannot be transferred, the power of attorney is void as to that power. For instance, even if the principal and the agent agree, the agent cannot write or execute a will for the principal. Any such will is not valid. 11. **Gather witnesses.** In some states, it is necessary to have the signing of the document witnessed by one or two people. If this is the case in your state, make sure witnesses are not only present but paying full attention as the agent and the principal sign the document. The witnesses should be comfortable testifying as to the document’s authenticity. For instance, in Florida, a power of attorney document must be signed by two witnesses, whereas Utah does not require witnesses. Check here to find out if your state requires a durable power of attorney document to be signed by witnesses. 12. **Consider hiring an attorney to review the document.** An attorney may notice legal issues that people who aren't trained in legal matters would not think to include or leave out. For example, an attorney may notice that the document uses language that could been seen as ambiguous and could lead to confusion. 13. **Have the document notarized.** Some states might not require you to have the document notarized. However, having the principal’s signature notarized eliminates any doubt regarding the validity of that signature. The notary must verify the identity of the principal before witnessing the signature. Notarizing the power of attorney document reduces the chance that it will be contested by an outside party who may question its validity. You can find more information about notarizing a document at: How to Notarize a Power of Attorney 14. **Save the power of attorney document.** A power of attorney is not filed at any governmental agency, but you must have it on hand to present it every time you use it. Keep it in a safe in your home or in a safety deposit box until the time comes when you need to bring it out.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Revoke-Power-of-Attorney", "language": "en"}

How to Eat Honeycomb

While liquid honey is a great topping on a number of foods, honeycomb can go places where honey can’t. Honeycomb has been eaten alongside honey for as long as humans have been harvesting from beehives, providing a perfectly edible, solid ‘body’ for the taste of honey. Enjoy it on toast, as a topping, a snack, or even raw! 1. **Toast your bread.** Place a slice or two of your favorite bread in the toaster and toast it to your preferred level of browning. Honeycomb also tastes great on a toasted English muffin. 2. **Spread honeycomb while bread is still hot.** Heat softens honeycomb. Add a few small chunks of honeycomb on top of the bread. While the honeycomb won’t melt entirely, it will become more pliable, allowing you to spread it on the toast with a knife or fork. As the honeycomb heats up, it will not only become softer, but more aromatic as well. 3. **Eat your toast while it is warm.** Toast with honeycomb is great by itself, but you can also add other toast topping as well. Butter and cheese, as well as nuts and sweet fruits, go especially well with honeycomb. If you’re adding multiple ingredients on top of your toast, spread those that melt or soften from heat first (like honeycomb or butter). This ensures that you can spread the flavors across the entire piece of toast. 4. **Add honeycomb to salads, sandwiches, and chilis.** Honeycomb can be used as a topping on salads, sandwiches, and chilis in order to provide honey flavor. Add honeycomb where you might want to taste sweetness, or alongside other cheese and fruit toppings. 5. **Pair honeycomb with breakfast foods.** Chop small bits of honeycomb and stir them into your favorite breakfast foods, like yogurt or oatmeal. You can also serve honeycomb atop pancakes or waffles. Crumbled honeycomb can also be added to batter for scones. 6. **Use it as a mixer or topping in ice cream.** Little chunks of honeycomb can be mixed into softened ice cream, or crumbled and drizzled on the top. Honeycomb is often paired with vanilla ice cream to give the ice cream a little bit of extra flavor and texture. Do not add honeycomb to ice cream and then refreeze the ice cream. This can cause the honey in and on the honeycomb to crystallize and become brittle. 7. **Enjoy honeycomb with cheese and crackers.** Restaurants that serve honeycomb typically serve it with cheese and crackers, but you can also enjoy this snack at home. Cover the cracker with cheese and top it off with a sprinkle of honeycomb. While cheddar and brie cheeses are the most popular to combine with honeycomb, any cheese will do. Sweeter honeycombs typically pair best with creamy cheeses, as it reduces the saltiness of the cheese and can provide texture as well. . 8. **Eat the honeycomb raw.** Honeycomb can be eaten straight from the container. The comb itself is tasteless and perfectly safe to enjoy.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Eat-Honeycomb", "language": "en"}

How to Be Safe Around Stray Dogs

There may come a time when you find an unfamiliar dog in your area. You notice that this dog is alone and you realize that it is either a stray or a lost pet. There are certain safety measures that you can take to keep yourself and the dog safe. If you are able to safely interact with the dog, you can take it to a shelter or find its owners. 1. **Differentiate between stray animals and lost pets.** If you happen upon a dog, you will most likely be able to tell whether the dog is a stray or a lost pet. Stray dogs may not have had any positive human contact and are not socialized towards humans. They tend to be wary of humans and their fear can be triggered into aggression. Pets that are lost are more likely to approach you and be comfortable around humans. They may be wearing a collar. They will probably be at a healthy weight, look cleaner, and appear as though they’ve been cared for. Your interactions with stray dogs and pets may be very different. However, just because a dog is a stray does not mean it is automatically aggressive or a safety threat to you. Dogs, stray or pet, that appear injured may come to you for help or they may be even more reluctant to approach you. It depends on the dog and its level of human socialization. 2. **Assess the situation.** You will need to take stock of the situation to decide how you will proceed. If you are with your pet, it is best to keep the two dogs separate and away from each other. Keep the widest distance between the two that you can, even if the other dog appears friendly. If the dog is friendly, you can return to the area that you found it after you’ve secured your dog at home or with someone else. If you have small children with you, keep them far away from the dog even if it appears friendly. If you see a dog approaching traffic, you must consider the safety of yourself and other drivers. The dog may run into the road, but you cannot run into the road to follow it. This is a major safety concern in which you must keep yourself safe. Do not corner the dog in a small or confined area. This can frighten and agitate the dog and make it act erratically. 3. **Stay calm.** Staying calm is one of the most important things you can do in this situation. Dogs are aware of others’ fear, which may agitate them or make them afraid. Your concern should be your safety, the safety of the dog, and the safety of any others around you. 4. **Walk away and don’t run.** This is true for any situation with an unknown dog. A dog’s instinct is to chase anything that is running from them. This is not necessarily an aggressive act, but can lead to confrontation. If you plan to return to the area that you found the dog, you should speak in a soft and kind tone and back away from the dog. If the dog is aggressive, try to avoid any confrontation with the dog by backing away slowly. 5. **Send calming signals.** When you signal to the dog that you are not a threat to their safety, they are more likely to stay calm and peaceful. Some calming signals that you can use are: Avoiding eye contact Standing sideways to the dog Letting them approach and sniff you (do not raise your hand in a sudden movement — this may frighten the dog and they may bite) Yawning Licking your lips 6. **Avoid acting dominant.** Aggressive behaviors may signal a threat to the dog, making them feel hostile or agitated. Aggressive behaviors to avoid include: Staring at the dog Making sudden movements Walking or running towards them Yelling or making loud noises. 7. **Avoid confrontation with large packs of dogs.** A dog’s confidence is found in numbers. When a dog is in a pack, their confidence increases and they can pose a greater safety risk. You should not attempt to interact with a pack of dogs that you think are stray. It is best to call animal control and let them take care of the situation. 8. **Assess the dog's body language.** Dogs use body language to communicate that they are agitated, afraid, angry, or intimidated. Dogs that freeze when you approach them, curl their lips to show their teeth, or stand with their head low looking at you are agitated and can be aggressive. Do not approach a dog that is caring for puppies. Their maternal instinct to protect the puppies may make them less willing to interact with you. Dogs can show their aggression by snapping, growling, barking, lunging, and snarling. Avoid dogs that display these behaviors. If a dog displays aggressive behaviors, try to stay motionless and avoid direct eye contact with the dog. Stay quiet and resist the urge to run and yell. 9. **Protect yourself during an attack.** If you have done everything that you can to avoid an attack, but the attack seems imminent, your focus should shift to protecting yourself. Use an object like your bag, a stick, or a shirt wrapped around your arm to fend off the attack. Do not try to hit the dog. The dog will probably dodge the attack and be able to move closer in range to you. Use your forearm to shield your face, head, and neck at all costs. If you are knocked to the ground, curl up and use your hands to protect your neck with your face towards the ground. You can purchase pepper spray that is specifically designed to deter dogs, though unless you walk through the area with the pepper spray out, you will be unlikely to use it during a sudden attack. Do not run away, as the dog will most likely attempt to chase you. 10. **Leave the area.** If you are able to avoid an attack and back away from the situation, you should leave the area immediately. If you have been attacked, you need to go to the hospital immediately. Let the emergency room know that you have been bitten by a dog and they will administer a rabies vaccine and treat your wound. Even if your injuries are minor and easily treated, you still see your doctor so they can determine if you need a rabies shot. Call animal control and let them known that you encountered a potentially dangerous stray dog. Be sure to tell them the location you found the dog, what the dog looked like, and how the dog was acting. They will determine the best course of action to get the dog out of the area and into a safe environment. In rural areas that do not have a local animal control, you can call the non-emergency telephone number for the police. 11. **Take the dog with you.** If you realize that the dog is approachable and friendly, you can try to entice them to go with you. A treat or friendly commands can be helpful to convince the dog to follow you. Do not corner the dog. This will make them feel trapped and even friendly animals can act erratically when they feel trapped in an area. The dog may follow you willingly. If it has a collar on, you can attempt to use a leash to lead the dog. Decide where to take the dog. Once you’ve convinced the dog to follow you, you have a few options. 12. **Take the dog to a shelter.** A shelter is well equipped to treat any medical issues the dog may have and can house the dog. The dog may have an embedded microchip that has the owner's contact information on it. The shelter should have a reader to check for a microchip. Ask the shelter if anyone has reported their dog lost. Many shelters will take a picture of the dog and keep your contact information in the case that an owner comes looking for the dog. The shelter may release the dog into your care if you decide to take it home with you. 13. **Take the dog home.** If you feel comfortable and are able to take care of the animal, taking the dog home with you while you attempt to locate its owner. If you have other dogs, be sure to introduce the new dog in a safe and relaxed environment. Make posters with a picture of the dog and your contact information. Your area may have a local pet rescue that can find a home for the dog. Reach out to local veterinarians. They may be able to post flyers letting their patients know about the lost dog. 14. **Leave food for the dog.** If you are unable to take the dog with you, you can leave food and water near where you first saw the dog. This is a good way to encourage the dog to be more trusting around humans.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Safe-Around-Stray-Dogs", "language": "en"}

How to Walk Silently

Ever wish you could walk through a forest without being heard, or sneak up on someone without giving yourself away? Walking silently is an art that takes a little time to master. See Step one and beyond to learn more about how to move without making a sound. 1. **Watch where you walk.** Moving soundlessly is much more difficult when you're walking on crunchy gravel and leaves than it is when you're moving over soft grass or dirt. To walk silently, assess the terrain and determine which path is the quietest. Whether you're indoors or outdoors, you can consciously walk over materials that help you move silently instead of creating extra noise. If you're walking through the woods or in another outdoor area, try to walk on soft grass or dirt. Walk on wet leaves instead of dry, crunchy ones. When walking outdoors, look for rocks or roots, as they won't crunch like leaves or twigs. Slowly put your weight onto the rock or root to be sure it won't shift or make noise. Once you are certain, put the rest of your weight down. In a city setting, avoid wooden walkways, graveled areas, cobblestones, and other materials that tend to make noise. Indoors, walk on carpeting whenever possible. 2. **Notice your surroundings.** The space you move through is as likely to create sound as the path under your feet. When you want to walk silently, it's important to stay very aware of your surroundings so that you avoid touching anything that could give you away. Avoid twigs and branches that could snag on your clothes and snap. Avoid gates and fences that could squeak or creak. Avoid brushing against piles of clutter and rustling fabrics. 3. **Move close to the ground.** Walk in a slightly crouched position, engaging all of your muscles as you move. This lightens the amount of force that hits the ground each time you make contact, enabling you to move much more quietly. Keep your body compact, and distribute your weight evenly so you don't clunk your feet noisily against the ground. 4. **Walk toe to heel.** Place the toe of your foot down first and slowly, gently roll your foot toward your heel and onto the ground. Your body weight should rest primarily over your back leg. Walk on the outer edge of your shoes if possible. If you need to move swiftly, keep low to the ground and run using the same toe-to-heel strike. Running on the balls of one's feet can help with speed and quietness, but be careful; this requires more strength in the feet and lower legs, and greater flexibility in the ankle and foot joints. It also requires a better balance than normal movement, and creates a greater impression on softer surfaces (due to the weight being spread over a decreased surface area). Land softly. Running or jumping silently is difficult, but it's possible if you master the art of landing quietly. Land in a crouched, balanced position without striking the ground too hard. 5. **Keep your arms close.** Try not to use your hands and arms by balancing yourself on walls and such, because you could knock something over and give away your presence. Instead, hold them near your sides in a comfortable position that doesn't restrict your movement. 6. **Transfer most of your weight and pressure away from your feet.** Of course, you can't transfer all of your weight and pressure. Although it can't be demonstrated, theoretically, it could be described as feeling empty feet (but not numb) and feeling a pressurized head. Transferring your weight and pressure to your head might make you self-conscious of your surroundings, building up alertness. This is useful for multiple things, but primarily jumping. If there is a thick spread of dry leaves, you would need to jump. When jumping, aim for a clear spot that is not wet (e.g. puddle) and not covered with dry foliage (e.g. dry leaves or grass). Land with your toes and the front of your feet. Wearing sneakers work best as the rubber will smooth out the noise. 7. **Wear soft footwear.** The harder your footwear, the louder the noise. The best type of footwear is socks or leather moccasins, but form-fitting boots or sneakers also work well. Avoid hard-soled boots, shoes with heels or tough soles, and shoes that are difficult to walk in. Comfortable, soft shoes are the way to go. Sweaty socks can make noise when you walk. If you sweat too much in your socks, wear a double pair of socks to mask the sound. Walking in bare feet can be the quietest way to move, but it can also be the loudest - if you step on a sharp object and exclaim in pain, giving yourself away. Plus, if your feet are sweaty, they might stick to the coating on the floor and make a "stripping" sound. It is possible to avoid making this sound by decreasing contact with the floor and walking on the outside edges of the balls of your feet, but be careful, as this requires greater strength and balance. Decide whether going barefoot is the wisest choice for the environment you're moving through. Make sure your footwear is completely dry; not only can it squeak, but damp spots on the floor can alert someone to your presence. When these damp footprints dry, they can leave obvious "clean prints" in the shape of your shoes, especially on surfaces like concrete. 8. **Be sure your footwear fits snugly.** If your foot slides at all in your footwear, it can produce a squeaking noise, especially if your feet are sweaty. If you are wearing shoes with shoelaces, tuck the laces into your shoe. If you don't, they may click against the shoe or the floor as you walk. 9. **Wear sparse, tight clothing.** Loose pants can rub against your legs when you're walking, making a rustling sound. Wearing tight pants can minimize this possibility. Wearing very soft clothing, light cotton sweatpants, will also keep noise to a minimum. Tuck your shirt into your pants, and tuck your pant legs into your shoes or socks. This will prevent them from flapping around. Shorts are more prone to moving around and making noise than pants, and you can't tuck shorts into your socks. If you must wear shorts, try tying a piece of string or elastic around them at your knees, but not so tightly that you will cut off circulation. 10. **Prepare your body.** If you have time to prepare before you're in a situation in which you need to walk quietly, taking small measures can help you make fewer sounds when you walk. For example, Stretch before you try to move silently. It is common that your joints and bones will click when you first exert them, so stretching before you're in the thick of the moment is a good idea. Stretching will make you feel looser and stop anything from clicking and giving away your presence. Don't go on an empty stomach but don't have a huge feast either. Your body actually gets heavier after you eat, and therefore, louder. Go to the bathroom before you attempt walking silently. 11. **Breathe steadily.** You might be tempted to hold your breath, but it's better to take slow and measured breaths from the nose. That way, you won't risk inhaling or exhaling too loudly when you need air. If you're congested, open your mouth wide and take deep, controlled breaths. You may feel your breath quicken as adrenaline moves through your body. If that happens, pause, catch your breath and take a few deep, calming breaths to ease your anxiety. Make sure you're breathing normally again before you continue. 12. **Match the cadence of another's gait.** If you're following someone, you can hide the sound of your steps by walking in time with him or her. As the person steps with his or her left foot, you use your left foot and repeat with the right foot. This will help mask any noise your feet may make. Be careful not to get carried away when you're matching someone's gait - it's still important to use the proper technique for walking silently. Otherwise, if the person stops abruptly and you keep walking, you'll be caught. 13. **Blend with your surroundings.** If you are moving through a wooded area where dry twigs, brush, dense jungle or leaves will make absolute silence impossible, move in small, erratic increments and pause: don't move in a steady plodding, marching, pounding rhythm. Mimic the sounds around you. For example, a forest might be filled with the sound of small animals foraging. They typically move a short distance, pause to sniff for food or predators and continue to move a short distance. Capitalize on any other sources of noise (gusts of wind, other animal movements, passing traffic) to suppress or camouflage sound. 14. **Be still when necessary.** If your aim is to have the ability to move through terrain without making a sound, sometimes you'll see the need to be still. Stand still and observe your surroundings before moving forward. Take as much time as you need to notice the objects around you that could trip you up and give you away. If you're following someone or trying not to be seen, there will be moments when you'll have to practice extreme patience. Be still and wait for the person to pass, or for the tension of the situation to dissipate, before moving forward.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Walk-Silently", "language": "en"}

How to Brake and Stop a Car in the Shortest Distance

Braking is a lost skill. With so many cars having anti-lock brakes (ABS), many people just slam on the brakes without making any other necessary adjustments. If you want to know how to brake and stop your car in the shortest distance while maintaining control of your vehicle, just follow these steps. 1. **Press down the brake firmly and smoothly.** If you push your foot down on the pedal in a car with ABS, you will feel the brake pulsating under your foot, sometimes violently. Don't be afraid of this or let go -- that just means the brakes are doing their job. Depress your brake pedal rapidly, but not instantly. This is essential to maximize the braking potential of your car. The goal is to bring the vehicle's tires just shy of breaking traction. It is important, though, to avoid "squeezing" down on the brakes if your car has ABS. The key is to apply the brakes quickly and deeply, while applying pressure with the left foot against the footrest to stabilize the body. As the car's speed is being scrubbed off, you can progressively and gently ease off the brakes to keep them at the point of maximal efficiency. 2. **Don't brake and swerve the car at the same time.** Gentle turning while braking can help you avoid a collision. However, don't ever swerve or jerk the steering wheel, as this can cause the vehicle to go out of control. It is not uncommon for people to swerve to miss a small animal and end up colliding with a tree or another car. In some circumstances, such as if a child jumps in front of your car, it is prudent to turn while you apply your brakes. You should practice this in a safe environment so you'll get an idea of how the vehicle will react. Here are some different ways to brake your car: Brake-turning. Turning the wheel into the corner while still lightly on the brakes. This causes the car to lean forward, pressing the front tires to the ground, giving them more grip for steering. This is a basic technique, and no corner should be made without it. Trail braking. This is a method of feathering the brakes while turning into the corner and it will provide the best and safest control over the vehicle as it is leaning on the front tires, allowing for more traction to those tires. An emergency stop. If a need to stop quickly is due, you should not fear using the brakes, even mid-corner: With ABS, depress the pedal all the way down. Without ABS, brake moderately hard (70%) while taking off a bit of steering. 3. **Avoid using your transmission for quick stops.** The transmission is designed to accelerate the vehicle not slow it down. The design of the load points on the transmission gears are not designed for this. It is not a component of the braking system. If you operate a tractor trailer, it is a different story. They are equipped with air brakes and engine brakes for a reason that is irrelevant for cars. However, it is a good practice to use engine braking for maintaining or decreasing speed on long downhill stretches. The heat generated is absorbed by the engine and removed efficiently by its coolant, radiator, and fan, which prevents the brakes from overheating so they will be most effective when needed for maximum braking. 4. **Focus on where you want to go, not what you want to avoid.** It's very difficult to steer away from something that you're looking at directly, and many people have a tendency to focus on what they are worried about colliding with. Instead, concentrate on where you want the car to go (to the side of the object) and pay attention to how the car feels—whether you're at OSP or locking up. 5. **"Squeeze" the brakes.** If your car does not have ABS, then you shouldn't hit or slam the brakes. Instead, you should squeeze the brake pedal firmly with your foot to stop the car as quickly as possible. You should squeeze the pedal down until right before the tires begin to skid, which will reach the limit of the traction of the tires. If you push down on the pedal too hard, you will lock the brakes and will lose control of your vehicle. 6. **Brake at the limit before the brakes lock up.** This is called "threshold braking" and will make your car stop as quickly as possible. Listen for a faint howl from the tires, which will tell you that you haven't reached the limit and that you're doing the right thing. If the wheel locks up and you've lost control of the car, then you've gone too far and have to let go and reapply the brakes again. 7. **Don't look at the object that you are colliding with.** Look to either side of the object and try to aim the car away from it instead of colliding with the object head on. If you're mesmerized by the object that you're about to hit, then you won't be able to focus on threshold braking, which will require your full concentration. 8. **Press your left foot against the floor.** Pressing your left foot against the rest pad area will help you brace your body against the damage and will make you for sensitive to knowing how you should modulate the brake pedal. 9. **Practice threshold braking.** It takes time and practice to master this type of braking, and spending some time doing it in an empty parking lot can improve your chances of success if the time ever comes. Also, practicing squeezing the brakes both firmly and lightly in your everyday driving can help you improve your braking skills -- and can save your life when the time comes. You can measure this by setting up markers as to when to start braking and when you stop the car, and you can visually see the difference between your tires locked up and not. Extra practice: Purposely lock up your brakes. Now practice reducing pressure on the pedal until it stops locking up, then apply pressure again to the OSP (optimal squeeze point) again. Inevitably, you will go over your OSP, or you will change surfaces while braking, that is why this practice is essential. Take note: each surface and speed will have different OSPs. This is why you should practice while it is dry, then while it is raining, and then when it is snowy, if it's possible.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Brake-and-Stop-a-Car-in-the-Shortest-Distance", "language": "en"}

How to Set Up a Buffet

A buffet is a great idea if you’re having a lot of guests over for a meal. This type of meal allows the guests to line up and choose which foods they would like to eat, as they move from one end of the serving station to the other. Setting up a buffet is not overwhelming if you take it step-by-step and do a little planning. To set up a buffet, prepare the space, set up the table, and put out food for the guests. 1. **Consider your budget.** Decide how much you want to spend altogether, including food, silverware, plates, and drinks. Next, reduce the amount you want to spend by 15%. The remaining 85% is what you will have to actually spend. The extra 15% allows you some extra money for unexpected costs and things like taxes, tips, and potential emergencies. Keep track of what you’re spending by keeping all of the receipts spent on the buffet together. Create a budget chart, either on a sheet of paper or in a computer program, such as Excel or Microsoft Word. 2. **Begin planning your buffet table in advance.** Gather all of your serving dishes together the night before the event and place them on the table. Attach sticky notes to remind you which food goes in which dish. Arranging your table in advance will ensure that you are not making last-minute decisions and preparations. If you have more time, consider drawing the set-up on a sheet of paper. Choose the one that you like the best, then recreate it using your table and dishes. 3. **Choose a room with a lot of potential open space.** Ten square meters is an ideal amount of room to fit all guests comfortably with room for getting food and mingling. Eight square meters allows for some seating, seven and a half square meters can be comfortable for smaller crowds, and six square meters should be the minimum amount of room that you designate for the buffet. If your location has multiple rooms, consider serving the food and drinks in one room, then having the seating in another room. 4. **Place the table in the center of the room for the best flow.** Clear the room you plan to use for your event, including all clutter, furniture, and decorations. Place the serving table in the middle of the room, then place additional tables to either side for things like plates, silverware, and cups. This will allow the guests to access to the food from both sides of the buffet table and will keep the line moving quickly. An eight-foot table will hold enough food for twenty to thirty people. You will need to put multiple tables together if you are having more people than that over. Make sure that you have a set of serving spoons and tongs for each dish--one for each side of the table. 5. **Plan a separate table for beverages.** By situating the beverage table away from the food table, you give your guests a chance to choose their food and put the plates down before pouring a drink. This minimizes the potential for spills. This is another way to ensure that your guests can maneuver the lines with ease. Consider having separate tables for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Water should be served at its own table. Depending on how many guests you have, you may want to have multiple pitches. This way, your guests aren't waiting in line. 6. **Plan traffic flow.** Designate an entrance and exit to the buffet. You can do this by simply letting people know as they walk up to the table, or by making a sign for each end of the table. Leave plenty of space in front of and on the sides of the table, just in case people decide to pause for a moment. This reduces the chance of crowding. Keep the types of food as separated as possible. For example, keep dessert far from the first course of the meal. If you will have vegetarian and/or vegan options, it might be a good idea to keep those separate from the non-vegetarian and non-vegan tables. Consider having a smaller table set aside for appetizers. You can place this closer to the wine or champagne table, even. 7. **Recall any difficulties you’ve experienced with past buffets.** Consider what was annoying or difficult the last time you went to a buffet. Think about what you would have liked during a buffet and plan your table around that idea. For example: If you wished you had room to set a plate down momentarily, leave enough extra space on the buffet table for people to do so. If you wished you had the option of tasting the food first, leave toothpicks or little spoons next to the dishes for your guests so that they can try the food. If you ran into issues with trash, consider setting up more trash bins and making them more noticeable so that guests can easily spot them. 8. **Have a nice presentation.** Think about what type of plates, cups, utensils, containers, and tablecloth you would like to use for your table. You don’t have to use your fine china, but a table is more appetizing if the set up looks nice. It’s okay to use plastic silverware, plates, and cups, as long as it is all new and clean. Don’t put your food out in greasy, cardboard boxes. Instead, use plastic or metal containers. You will also need a tablecloth. An expensive tablecloth will potentially get ruined by the mess, but look for one that adds cheer to the table. Decide on a color or a theme when putting out everything on the table. This will bring the look of the table together and make the meal look more appealing. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to decorations. Rather than choosing lots of colors and patterns, stick with just one or two solid colors instead. Many catering places will offer things like plates, cups, and silverware. Rental places for tables and chairs will sometimes have tablecloths that you can borrow as well. 9. **Place the plates at the start of the line.** Your guests can’t access the food well without first having plates available. If you are planning an event with a lot of people, it is a good idea to set up a buffet with two or three stacks of plates of about ten plates each. You don't, however, want to pile the plates too high, or they will be in danger of tipping over. Be sure to put condiments near the type of food they belong with. If you have separate tables for things like appetizers and desserts, you will need to add tables for plates near them as well. 10. **Put silverware at the end of the table.** Finish the table with the utensils and napkins. A common mistake made by many hosts when planning an event is to place utensils and napkins at the front of the table. It can be cumbersome to try to hold on to knives, forks, spoons, and linens along with a plate while your guests are trying to serve themselves. Make sure you put out all types of silverware that will be needed. For example, don’t forget spoons if there will be soup. 11. **Make labels.** Prepare labels for each dish ahead of time. This can be on small pieces of paper, sticky notes, or cardboard. Put the labels next to each dish once all of the food is out on the table. This will allow guests to know what the dish is before they put it on their plate, which helps eliminate a lot of uneaten and thrown away food. Make sure the labels are written in bold, large, and clear writing that all guests will be able to read with ease. Typed labels will be more legible than handwritten labels. If a food contains a common allergen, such as peanuts, it would be a good idea to add a warning label as well, such as: Contains Peanuts. If you know that some of your guests are vegetarian or vegan, it would be nice to mention which dishes contain meat or dairy. 12. **Provide a balanced meal.** Plan a meal with a salad, protein, vegetable, starch, carbohydrate, and dessert, unless you are throwing a cocktail party. Buffet meals can feel scattered and uneven. Sometimes there are too many appetizers, side dishes, or main plates. Planning a balanced meal will help you avoid this problem. If you are having a cocktail party, it is okay to only serve a variety of appetizers and desserts. You can rarely go wrong by including a vegetable and fruit tray. Make sure to put out a vegetarian or vegan option. 13. **Plan the food according to the season.** The type of food we eat for meals often changes with the seasons. During summer, it feels tiring to eat a heavy meal filled with potatoes and meats. While during the winter, a light salad and lean fish may feel too light. Fruits that contain a lot of water are great for summer buffets, like watermelon. Rich foods, like cheesy mash potatoes, are good for winter meals. 14. **Choose six to eight items.** You don’t want to have too few or too many items to choose from. Too few items can leave some guests without food or choice if they don’t like everything you’ve served. Too many choices may cause a more convoluted line with too much leftover food. Six to eight items is a good amount to give everyone enough choices. The serving size depends on the number of people you are expecting. You can send out a list of ideas for dishes and ask for feedback a week or two before the buffet. Be sure to have a variety of food. Don't have six or eight all-meat items. Include dishes with vegetables and grains in them as well. If you'll be serving meat, try to have two different choices, such as chicken and fish, rather than two chicken dishes. 15. **Line up the food according to temperature.** The first stop on the food line should be the hot foods. You want the guests to get to these first before they cool down too much. This way, your guests won't be dining on cold main courses when they find their seats. The cold foods should be at the end of the table. If possible, it is best to choose room temperature. Put out chafing dishes to keep foods hot, and ice platters to keep food cold. 16. **Arrange the food strategically.** Put the cheapest and the food you have the most of at the beginning of the table. Put the most expensive and scarce food at the end of the table. It is a good idea to set it up this way because the food at the beginning of the table typically goes the fastest. Consider switching foods during the course of the buffet. If the carrots aren’t being eaten enough, switch them out with a food that is going fast. Some foods become unappetizing the longer they sit. For example, if the salad is starting to look slimy or the casserole is congealing, switch it out! Try to add in a little variety if you're serving across multiple buffet tables. 17. **Add decorations.** Once the table is set up, add decorations to amp up the appeal of the table. Don’t choose anything that will get in the way or block people. Large candles on candlesticks may not be a good idea, but placing small ribbons or bows around the table won’t get in the way of anyone reaching for food. If you’re having a buffet for a holiday, choose decorations that correspond with that holiday. Saint Patrick’s Day decorations could be green, white, and gold. A Fourth of July buffet can be decked out in red, white, and blue. If you really want candles, consider LED or battery-operated candles instead. They last longer and you don't have to worry about fire hazards. Don't get too carried away with the decorations. A scatter of confetti is better than large ornaments and figures that take up too much space. If you want to have a statement decoration, consider putting it on a table that won't be frequented, such as the cake table or drinks table.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Set-Up-a-Buffet", "language": "en"}

How to Look Sick with Makeup

Whether you’re playing a prank, putting on a production, or practicing for your Halloween costume, there are a few simple cosmetic techniques you can use to fool people into thinking you’re under the weather. Start by apply powdering your entire face to make it look pale, then draw circles under your eyes with a dark-colored brow pencil for a sunken, sleepless appearance. A smudge of pink or red lipstick can create the effect of feverish cheeks or a raw runny nose. You can even apply dabs of clear glycerin to mimic sweat or snot! 1. **Start with a naked face.** Skip the usual enhancements, like eyeliner, eye shadow, lipstick, and mascara. Leaving them off will give you a blank canvas to work with. From there, you’ll be able to stage each part of your face individually. Wash and exfoliate your face before you begin so it will take the cosmetics better. A makeup-free base is also more believable, since most people don’t bother with makeup when they’re feeling unwell. 2. **Apply a foundation 2-3 shades lighter than your natural skin tone.** Dab the foundation onto your cheeks, chin, and forehead. Then, blend it thoroughly so it isn’t too obvious. When you’re done, you’ll look like all the color has drained out of your face. If you’re unsure which foundation will look best, start with a shade closer to your skin tone and lighten up from there. Going too light at once may not be convincing. 3. **Contour your cheeks for a gaunt appearance.** Dust a contouring brush with purple or maroon eye shadow and sweep the bristles along the length of your cheekbones from your earlobes to the corners of your mouth. Blend with a separate brush until only there's only a faint trace of the color remaining. This drawn, sickly effect will be enough to suggest that you've dropped weight. If the shadow on your cheeks isn't quite gloomy enough on its own, try hitting other areas where color will show up well, like your temples and laugh lines. Switch to a darker shade of eye shadow to broadcast that you're on your deathbed. 4. **Use blush to feign a fever.** For best results, pick out a subtle pink or magenta shade. Pat it onto the points of your cheeks and the center of your forehead and blend in every direction. Apply the blush lightly at first and add more little by little to hint at a temperature. Go easy on the blush. You want to look like a sick person, not a china doll. 5. **Draw dark circles under your eyes.** Scoop up a small amount of reddish-brown or reddish-purple cream blush on your fingertip and underline each eye from one corner to the other. Blend the color downward until it fades into the skin just above your cheekbones. Instant tired eyes! Keep the blush confined to your lower eyelid. If you blend it any lower, it may start to look fishy. You could also use a brow or eyeliner pencil, though this might be tougher to smudge properly. 6. **Rim your eyes with red cream blush or lipstick.** Place a small dot at the outer corners of both eyes. Use the tip of your finger or a cotton swab to smudge the makeup around the edges and up under the lids. Red, swollen eyes are a clear sign that you've been crying, sneezing uncontrollably, or suffering from a lack of sleep. Avoid blending the blush or lipstick into the product you used to draw on your eye circles. Too much color in the same area may come off looking raccoon-like and unnatural. 7. **Leave your bottom eyelid exposed to create the effect of eye bags.** Rather than filling in your entire lid, leave about half an inch exposed just beneath your lower lashes. The uncovered skin will look puffy and swollen as a result. Make sure you’ve contoured your eyes carefully with the cream blush or brow pencil. Otherwise, your eye bags won’t look very real. 8. **Use eye drops for a bloodshot stare.** Squeeze 1-2 drops of regular saline into each eye and blink a few times. This is a harmless way to temporarily puff up your eyes like you’ve been dealing with wicked allergies. Be careful not to use so much that you get teary. All that hard work will have been for nothing if your eye makeup runs. 9. **Show off a raw, runny nose with red lipstick.** Paint the lipstick onto the tip of your nose and around both nostrils and spread it outward with the pad of your finger. Work a little into the creases around the edges, as well. Blend thoroughly and wipe off the excess where it begins to creep higher up on your nose or onto your cheeks. Stay away from shades that are too dark or too red. These scream “circus clown” more than they do “patient zero.” Carry a box of tissues around with you to complete the illusion. 10. **Apply streaks of glycerin to simulate snot.** Use a cotton swab to brush the glycerin under the openings of your nostrils. The clear liquid can pull double duty when dabbed around your brow and hairline like beads of sweat. Don’t forget areas like your neck and temples if you’re attempting to play off a big illness like the flu. Glycerin is safe, non-toxic, and can actually moisturize your skin, which means it’s okay to use as much as you need to really sell your symptoms. 11. **Use foundation to make your lips look pale and dry.** Spread a thin coat of liquid foundation over both lips, then press and pucker them like you just put on chapstick to create little cracks and creases. Be sure to hit the inside of each lip as well as the front so the foundation will be visible when you open your mouth. When your lips are the same color as the surrounding skin, they'll seem to recede right into your face. Tracing around your lips with a light-colored eyeliner pencil will help accentuate their dry, cracked, crusty condition and make people think you've come down with something serious. If you accidentally apply too much foundation, blot (don't wipe) your lips with a damp cloth to remove the caked-on bits. 12. **Finish with a dewy setting spray.** A generous spritz with a setting spray will help preserve your makeup and safeguard it against smudging and fading. The dewy kind can also lend a faint sheen, complementing the glycerin sweat you already applied and making it look like you’re not wearing makeup at all. Win-win! Hold the bottle a foot or so away from your face while you spray to keep from accidentally blasting off your foundation. 13. **Avoid touching your face.** Once you’ve got your frail features looking just right, resist the urge to mess with them. Don’t scratch, pick, or run your fingers over any part of your makeup. A single smudge is all it will take for you to get busted. Lay face-up so your makeup doesn’t rub off on your pillow. If you absolutely have to fiddle with your face, do it delicately and be sure to fix any mistakes you make in the process. 14. **Reapply your makeup as needed.** Should you happen to experience any technical difficulties, simply touch up the problem area with a fresh coat of blush, pencil, or foundation. The shiny glycerin will also wear off over time, so you may need to paint on a little more of that periodically as well. Blend the fresh makeup until it’s indistinguishable from the old. 15. **Try not to overdo it.** Stop to inspect your handiwork every so often and use your best judgment to decide whether it looks authentic. The key to a face that screams “I can’t get out of bed today” is subtlety. Too much of any one product will come off looking phony and potentially blow your cover. Start small and add more where you think it’s needed. It may not take as much makeup as you think to bring the common cold to life. Use makeup remover wipes to gently blot areas where you’ve caked a product on too heavily.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Look-Sick-with-Makeup", "language": "en"}

How to Sew Chain Stitch

In sewing, a chain stitch is just what it sounds like — a series of stitches connected in a chain-like pattern. While the chain stitch is an ancient technique, it's still one of the most-widely used stitches in the world of sewing. This stitch is just as useful for filling in shapes as it is for outlining, as its chained structure makes it flexible enough for following curves and spirals. Best of all, there are multiple ways to sew a chain stitch, so grab a needle and thread and start learning today! 1. **Start with a small stitch.** The very beginning of a basic chain stitch is easy — all you need to do is make a small, straight stitch in your fabric. The exact size doesn't matter, but it shouldn't be any larger than a quarter inch or so. This stitch will "anchor" the rest of your chain. To make a simple stitch, just bring the needle through the back of the fabric, then bring it through the front of the fabric near the first hole. Try practicing chain stitches on an old pair of pants first. Always start at the side seam, not in the middle of the garment. This way, any mistakes won't be noticeable. Mark your garment with tailor's chalk as you practice. Then, simply follow the chalk line as you sew! 2. **Come back through the fabric near your stitch.** Bring the needle through the back of the fabric a short distance below your first stitch. This new hole should be in line with the first two (not off to either side.) 3. **Loop the thread through the first stitch.** Bring the needle under the initial stitch from the side. You may need to use the needle tip to work the stitch open slightly. Pull the thread through so that it's reasonably tight (but not so tight that the fabric bunches up.) 4. **Put the needle back through the second hole.** Next, put the needle point through the same hole that you came up through in Step 2. Your stitch should look like a skinny oval or slit. You've just made the first "link" of your chain! 5. **Come back through the fabric below your stitch again.** Now, all you need to do is just repeat the steps above to continue your chain. Bring the needle through the back of the fabric at a spot that's about as far from your first link as you did before. 6. **Loop the thread through the previous link.** This time, pass the thread underneath both threads in the "link" of the chain. Then, put the needle down through the same hole you came up through. Your chain should now have two links. 7. **Repeat as needed.** Simply continue this pattern to continue adding links to your chain. 8. **Start by making a single "link" of a basic chain stitch.** This variation on the basic chain stitch has a thicker, more defined appearance, making it a great choice for stitching borders and outlines that you want to stand out. To begin, you'll want to create a one-link basic chain stitch according to the method above. In other words: Start with a single small stitch Come back through the fabric at a spot in line with your stitch (less than an inch or so away) Loop your thread through your first stitch Put the needle back through the hole it came from. 9. **Make a second "link" through the original stitch.** At this point, the heavy chain stitch starts to differ from the basic method. Come back through the fabric a little ways from your first link as you normally would, but then make a loop that passes through the original "anchor" stitch — not the link you just made. After this, pull the thread through and put the needle back through the hole it came from once again. 10. **Make a third link through the first two links.** Come back through the fabric below the second link. Pass the needle under both of the previous links. This is crucial — you want the thread to pass under not just the second link, but the second and first links together. When done, put the needle back through the hole it came from as before. Ignore the original "anchor" stitch — we don't need to deal with it any more. 11. **Repeat as needed.** Continue this pattern to extend your chain. Each time you come up through the fabric, loop your thread under the last two links you've made. If you do this correctly, a thick, "tight"-looking chain stitch should begin to form. It takes careful attention to get the pattern down, but once you get it, this stitch isn't difficult. Until it becomes natural, be careful about missing a stitch and looping your new link through just one previous link instead of two — if you don't catch your mistake, this will give your finished product an uneven "kink" in the chain. 12. **Start by bringing the needle up through the fabric.** This variant on the basic chain stitch actually looks like a real chain. Unlike the method above, we won't start with a basic chain stitch here. Instead, simply bring the needle from the back side of the fabric to the front. 13. **Wrap the working thread around the needle.** Next, bring the needle in front of your working thread (the "slack" length of thread that you haven't used yet.) Wrap the working thread one complete turn to form a tight loop around the needle. 14. **"Scoop" up a short length of fabric.** Stick the needle back through the front of the fabric a short distance from where you brought it through. Then, without pulling the thread tight, bring the point of the needle back through the fabric again a short ways down the line. An easy way to do this is to bring the needle through the fabric at a shallow angle, rather than at a 90-degree angle. This way, you can slip the needle into the fabric and back out again using only the length of the needle, so you won't need to pull on the thread. 15. **Pull the needle over the working thread.** Start pulling the needle to tighten the thread. Make sure the needle travels over the working thread rather than under it. Finally, pull the thread tight. If you've done everything correctly, at this point you should be left with a stitch that looks like an oval shape or the number 0. 16. **Repeat as needed.** Though it may not seem like it at first, all you need to do to continue your cable chain stitch is just repeat the steps above. As you lengthen your stitch, you'll eventually get a string of "0s" joined by short "-" segments that resemble the links in a real chain. To recap, for the rest of the stitch, you'll need to: Wrap the working thread around the needle Scoop up a short length of fabric by putting the needle through the thread and bringing it back through without tightening the thread. Pull the needle back over the working thread Pull to tighten.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Sew-Chain-Stitch", "language": "en"}

How to Study History

Studying history can be pretty straightforward and even enjoyable if you apply yourself both in and out of the classroom. Whether you have a big test coming up and you’re attempting to cram the night before, or you’re looking to brush up on your studying skills for history courses in general, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Take notes during lectures and when reading the assigned texts, and don’t hesitate to ask (or email) your instructor, professor, or teacher if any questions arise. 1. **Ask your instructor what type of information they'll include on exams.** Taking good notes is much easier if you know what's important. Each instructor has their own way of designing their exams, so you may need to change up your note taking strategy to fit their assessments. This information may also be included on the syllabus. 2. **Write down important information from your teacher and textbook.** It may feel redundant to take notes in class, since the information is on the board in front of you. However, you’ll soon forget the facts and dates if you don’t write them down straight away. The same goes for when you’re reading the assigned text(s) for the course/class. So, keep a notebook dedicated to history classes, and aim to take at least 1 page of notes per chapter read or 30 minutes of lecture you've sat through. For example, you may not need to write down Abraham Lincoln’s exact height. But, you should jot down the dates of the Civil War and the date of the Gettysburg Address, for example. 3. **Organize your notes chronologically.** It goes without saying that the field of history comprises many events that took place in a certain chronological order. Maintaining that chronology in the notes that you take both in class and while reading will help you organize the information you receive. Always jot down the date of events in your notes and try to keep things sequential. For example, if you’re studying the Cold War, organize major events like the Manhattan Project, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the fall of the Berlin Wall in the order in which they occurred. Use several resources to ensure the accuracy of your historic research. 4. **Write down connections between the chronological notes you take.** Studying history can often feel like you’re memorizing a bunch of disconnected dates, names, and places. Avoid this by making the connections explicit in the notes that you take. Then, when you’re preparing for a test or essay, you’ll be able to draw on these connections and contextualize historical events. For example, write down causal links between major 20th century events like the American Great Depression, World War II, and the rise of the Soviet Union. 5. **Make a visual map of interconnected historical events.** This can be a timeline, a flip book, or what-have-you. If you are a visual learner, retaining written information can be a challenging task; try mapping out historical events on a few sheets of note paper instead of writing them down. If you’re studying the Cold War, write “cold war” in the center and draw several lines out around it that draw in American presidents, Soviet leaders, and major events. Make sure to add a date near each of the events and figures on the map. So, when you write “Cuban Missile Crisis,” add “October, 1962.” Don't include information you do not need. 6. **Ask your instructor about any information you didn’t understand.** Sometimes students feel embarrassed to ask their teacher questions, but there’s no reason to feel that way. If you’re confused about a point in the lecture or are struggling to remember any dates, names, or places, don’t hesitate to ask your teacher after class. Or, send your teacher an inquiring email that night. So, try asking something like, “I’m having a hard time remembering the names of the Soviet leaders. Can you remind me who came after Stalin?” 7. **Focus on remembering big-picture events and concepts.** When reading and studying history, it’s easy to get bogged down on little details. This makes it nearly impossible to retain the information you’ll need to pass a test or write an essay. Instead, focus on the big-picture topic (e.g., the course topic and sub-topics) and think of smaller events only as they relate to the major topic.This will hone your understanding of the material. For example, if you’re spending 6 weeks studying the American Civil War, don’t try to remember the names of every battle and military movement. Instead, focus on remembering 4-5 major figures on both sides, 4-5 major battles, and the war’s political causes and fallout. 8. **Draw a timeline of the historical period that you’re studying.** A timeline is a great visual aid when it comes to understanding the sequence and chronology of historical events. So, if you’re studying 20th century history, label a line from 1900 to 1999, and fill it in with major events like the World Wars, Cold War, and Vietnam War. Also add events like the invention of the internet and the assassination of JFK. If the timeline becomes too long to fit on a sheet of notebook paper, try using a strip of butcher paper instead. If you have access to a digital device, try making your timeline online using a fun template. You can find a good template with a simple online search. 9. **Memorize necessary dates and names using flash cards.** While making connections between chronological events is great, sometimes you just need to memorize historical data. Try writing a small prompt on the front of the card and the answer on the back. Then, you can quiz yourself during your daily study time. Or, get together with a couple of friends from your history class and quiz each other in preparation for the test. For example, on the front of the card, write “Where was JFK shot?” and on the back write “Dallas, Texas.” 10. **Relate the topics you're studying to your own life.** Connecting historical events and ideas to your everyday life can help you understand them on a deeper level. Examine how history still affects society today, and look for incidences in your life that mirror historical events. For example, let's say you're studying slavery in the United States. You might review current events to see how society is still impacted by the past practice of slavery. 11. **Imagine what life was like during the time period you're studying.** As you study each topic, close your eyes and imagine you're there. Try to form a picture based on what you've learned so far. Then, ask yourself questions like these: How might you go about your day? What would you expect to see, hear, feel, smell, and taste? What struggles might you face? Who would you expect to meet? How would you feel? Afraid? Excited? Interested? 12. **Skim the history textbook if you’re studying last-minute.** If your test is coming up shortly, you may not have time to study with flash cards or get a group together. Instead, study quickly by skimming the texts. You’ll absorb the most information if you focus on titles and headings rather than getting bogged down in paragraphs. Try to absorb major names, dates, events, and places in time for the test. So, start by reading the titles of the chapters you’ll be tested on. Go through the chapters and read major sections and sub-headings. Then read the introductory and concluding paragraphs to each of those chapters. 13. **Review and rewrite notes that pertain to the topic of the test.** Unless you’re studying for a final exam, quizzes and tests will only be on a portion of the course material. So, open your history notebook and pull out your notes that pertain to the test topic. Re-read everything you wrote. Then, make a 1-2 page outline of all the major events, dates, and people that will likely be on the test. If anything in your notes isn’t clear to you, go back and re-read the section of your textbook that the information came from. Or, ask your teacher for clarification if the information came from an in-class lecture. 14. **Make—and stick to—a daily study schedule.** Studying for a history exam may not be the most thrilling way to spend a couple of hours, and students often postpone studying. If you postpone too many times, though, you won’t end up studying enough to pass the test. So, set aside 1-2 hours each day during which you can review your lecture notes, re-read relevant parts of the class texts, and use flash cards. For example, study history from 8:00 to 9:30 every night. Once it’s a habit, it’ll feel as normal as any other part of your routine. 15. **Invite other students to join you in a study group.** When studying for a test, try getting a few other classmates to join you at someone’s house or the school library. You and the other group members can ask each other questions about the course content, refer to each other’s notes, and help jog one another’s memories regarding names, dates, and facts. Or, pull out your notecards and review them with your classmates. Many group-study sessions become little more than a social hour. Avoid this by keeping the members of your group focused on studying history.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Study-History", "language": "en"}

How to Teach Volleyball to Kids

Volleyball is a fun sport for all ages. The sooner kids start playing, the more skilled they will become -- it takes years to master some volleyball skills. Kids are able to learn most volleyball basics, such as passing, serving, and setting. Other skills, such as spiking, might be too complicated for young learners. The key to working with kids is to keep it fun and give lots of encouragement. You can even have parents join in the lesson so that everyone has fun. 1. **Teach proper hand placement.** Have them place one hand flat, place their other hand underneath that hand, and curl in their thumbs to the middle of their hands. Their forearms should form a flat surface, which is where the ball will be hit. Alternately, they can make a fist with their left hand and then cover the fist with their right hand so that their thumbs line up on top. They should never interlock their fingers because it is dangerous and they could end up with a broken finger. 2. **Show the kids a proper stance.** They should stand with their feet slightly more than shoulder-width apart and their knees bent. Have them practice squatting as if they were sitting in a chair. They should be light on their feet so that they can move and get to any ball. To help develop this agility, you can have them shuffle laterally from one side of the court to the other. 3. **Have the kids practice passing.** The kids can stand in pairs and practice throwing the ball to one another. The ball should be thrown underhand to the other kid’s arms. The ball will be hit with their forearms back to the other kid. This is known as bumping the ball. Have them do this until they get used to the feel of hitting the ball on the proper surface. One kid can hit the ball 10 times and then the other can hit the ball 10 times. 4. **Play passing games.** You can then start moving around and making fun games out of it. For example, the ball can be thrown towards alternating sides of the child instead of directly at their arms. You could give them a point each time the child who threw the ball is able to catch the ball that was hit back towards them. The team with the most points at the end of a minute wins! 5. **Show them how to toss the ball.** With their non-hitting hand, kids should toss the ball in the air slightly in front of them. Their tossing hand shouldn’t move too much and the ball shouldn’t go too high. If the ball is thrown very high, then it will be moving faster and more difficult to hit. Aim for about 2ft (.6m) above the head and about 2ft (.6m) in front of them. The key to a good serve is to keep it simple. It should all be one smooth, fluid movement. 6. **Teach them to step towards the ball.** Kids need to take a large step forward in the direction that they wish to hit the ball. This will help them to generate enough power to hit the ball over the net. They should step forward with the foot on the same side as their hitting hand. 7. **Have them make contact with the ball.** Their hitting arm should be extended above their head and they should hit the ball with the heel of their hand. This will help the ball to go the furthest without spinning. The arm should follow through after hitting the ball until the hand is down by their thigh. The hand should be completely open when hitting the ball. The ball should be hit as it is descending from its toss. The kids should reach up towards the ball to make sure their arm is fully extended. 8. **Have them practice serving.** They can stand several feet away from a wall and practice serving the ball against the wall. They can form pairs with one child on each side of the net and practice hitting it over. The key to getting a good serve is lots and lots of practice. The toss, step, and hit should all happen in one fluid motion. Some kids won't be able to serve across the full court. You can have them stand closer to the net so that they can practice hitting the ball over. 9. **Teach an underhand serve if they aren’t able to do an overhand serve.** To serve the ball underhand, they can toss the ball and step forward, but they will move their hitting hand down by their side and then swing it forward instead raising it up in the air. They will hit the ball over the net with their fist. This method is the easiest for making contact with the ball. An underhand serve is easier for younger players, but they should still be practicing the overhand serve so that they can learn it and be able to do it eventually. 10. **Teach proper hand placement.** When setting the ball, kids should start with both hands hovering right over their forehead. The thumbs and pointer fingers should form a triangle and the palms should face outward. The elbows should be out to the side in a wide position, which will provide leverage to push the ball. They will then push their hands upward to set the ball. The key is for the hands to make contact with the ball when it is right at their foreheads and for all 10 fingers to touch the ball. 11. **Have them practice catching the ball.** They can toss the ball up to themselves and catch it right above their forehead with their hands in the setting position. Their fingers should wrap around the ball. This will help them get used to the setting position. This drill can be done seated so that kids don’t worry about foot placement. 12. **Have them practice pushing the ball upwards.** You can divide the kids into pairs. One child can toss the ball to themselves and then instead of catching it, they will set it to the other kid. They should push the ball upwards, straightening their arms into parallel lines in one smooth, direct motion. The other kid should be about 5 feet (or 1.5m) away and they will catch the ball. The child setting the ball can remain seated and the other child can stand and catch the ball and return it to their partner. After 10 times, they can switch turns. To make this drill more difficult, increase the distance between the kids by having them take a large step backwards. To set the ball further, they will need to push their arms more diagonally rather than straight up. You can increase the distance so that the kids are up to 10ft (about 3m) apart total.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-Volleyball-to-Kids", "language": "en"}

How to Build a Planter Box from Pallets

Pallets are fairly easy to come by, and they make for a cheap or free source of wood for things like planters. When choosing a pallet, make sure to read the label first; avoid ones that are marked with "MB," as that means they've been chemically treated. "HT" just means it's been heat treated, which is fine for a planter. You can try a simple project where you just staple garden fabric onto the bottom of a pallet to enclose it. You can also cut a pallet into sections and then reassemble it into a planter. Alternatively, you can take the pallet apart altogether to assemble it into a planter. 1. **Scrub down the pallet if it's dirty and sand any rough edges.** Use a bit of dish soap dissolved in water to scrub it down with a sturdy brush. Rinse it off with a hose. Once it dries enough that it doesn't feel rough to the touch, use heavy sandpaper to smooth down any edges that are too splintery. Sanding the edges isn't absolutely necessary, but it will keep you from picking up as many splinters in your hands. You can find free pallets at may retail locations, such as pet stores, farm and tractor stores, liquor stores, and even schools. You might also find them at construction sites. Always ask before taking a pallet. Also, never take a pallet that's marked with "Property of..." or a company name. You can also purchase pallets at home improvement stores. 2. **Cut garden fabric to fit the back and sides of the pallet.** Turn the pallet over and lay the garden fabric out over the back. Cut it large enough to completely cover the back, leaving enough room to go up the sides of the pallet, too, to help keep the soil in. The "back" of the pallet will be the side that has the most slats. You want the openings on the front/top of the pallet. "Garden fabric" is also called "weed barrier" fabric, as it's meant to suppress weeds when you layer it over an area. You can find it at most home improvement stores and garden centers. 3. **Staple the fabric to the back of the pallet, starting on the outer edges.** On the back of the pallet, place a staple in the middle of one side of the pallet. Stretch it out and put a staple in the middle on the opposite side. Do the same for the other 2 sides and then fill in the rest of the edges with staples, stretching it a little as you do. You don't need to stretch it very taut, but you should try to tighten it a little so it doesn't have too much slack. 4. **Attach the fabric to the sides with a staple gun.** Flip the pallet over. Pull the fabric up each side. Staple it in place near the top of each side. At the corners, fold the fabric flat into a triangle shape and lay it flat against the pallet to staple it in place. If you need to, trim off the fabric around the top edge. 5. **Fill the planter with soil and put your plants in the soil.** Dump the soil in, working around the planks as you go. Add plants to each section of the planter by digging small holes and inserting the plants. Cover the bottom of the plants and then water the soil thoroughly. Make sure you have the planter where you want it before adding the soil or watering it. 6. **Cut a pallet into thirds.** Start with a pallet that has 6, 9, or 12 planks across the front, as that will make it easier to cut into thirds. For instance, if it has 9 planks, cut between the third and fourth plank and then the 6th and 7th plank. Use a hand saw or jigsaw to cut down the center between the planks. You'll need to cut through each cross board on the front. Once you're done, flip it over and cut it in the same places on the back. Pull the pallet apart into thirds. You should have 2 side pieces and 1 middle piece. 7. **Pull off the small slats on the back of the side pieces.** When you flip the side pieces over, you should see small slats sticking out from the long piece of wood. Use a hammer to pry the slats off gently as you want to keep them intact. Wedge the claw under the edge of the wood that's still attached and use the hammer to leverage the piece off. As you go along, hammer in any nails that are sticking up so they're flat against the boards. 8. **Remove the planks and wooden blocks from the center piece.** On the back of the center piece, you should see square wooden blocks with small planks on top. Use your hammer to wedge these pieces off, keeping the wooden blocks intact as you go. You may need to use a chisel to wedge the wooden blocks off the center piece. Continue to flatten any nails you see sticking up by hammering them into place. 9. **Cut off the edges of the planks that stick out on the center piece.** When looking at the center piece, you should see 3 long boards (if you started with a pallet that had 9 planks) and smaller boards running perpendicularly across the long boards. The small boards likely extend over the edges of the long boards so trim them off with a handsaw or jigsaw so they're flush with the edges of the long boards. 10. **Remove the "feet" from the boards you laid to the side with a splitting wedge.** You set aside planks with wooden blocks on them earlier. Place a splitting wedge between the board and the wooden blocks. Drive a sledge hammer against the end of the edge to cut the nails between the blocks and boards. If you want to skip this step, you could just screw the boards onto the bottom of the planter with the blocks still attached. A splitting wedge is a tool that's cut into a wedge shape. You place the sharp end between 2 things you want to separate, then hit the broad end with a sledge hammer. 11. **Screw or nail the middle piece into the side pieces.** Turn the middle piece over. Set the side pieces across from each other up so that the wooden blocks are on the inside and at the top of the boards, while you prop the middle piece on top, which will become the bottom piece. This part will be a little difficult to balance as you need to prop it up and screw it in at the same time. Line the middle piece up with the wooden blocks from the sides and screw or nail them into place. Place 2-3 screws or nails through the bottom piece into each of the the wooden blocks. Turn the planter right-side up! 12. **Place the leftover planks on the ends to make the other sides.** You should have a u-shaped planter with the ends still open. Place the leftover planks on the ends, lining them up with the side boards. Screw them into place on top of the side and bottom boards. You may need to cobble together a couple of pieces to form 2 of the planks on the side. 13. **Screw the feet in at an angle.** Turn the planter over again. Place the wooden blocks at the corners of the planters. Angle 2 3-inch (8 cm) screws on each foot so they go through the side of the feet and into the bottom of the planter. Drill the screws into each wooden block to hold the feet in place. Turn the planter back over. To finish the planter, add a layer of chicken wire or garden fabric to the inside of the planter, which will keep the soil inside. You may want to staple the fabric in place so that it doesn't move around too much. 14. **Decide how big you want your planter to be.** If you want a square box, you could use 20 in (51 cm) pieces, along with skinnier pieces for a frame. If you want a rectangle, you'll need some longer pieces and some shorter pieces. However, you should decide ahead of time so you can judge how you want to cut the pallet as you pull it apart. If you wanted a rectangle, you could use 20 in (51 cm) pieces for 2 sides and 16 in (41 cm) for the other sides. 15. **Take the pallet apart until you have planks and wooden blocks.** Use the claw end of the hammer to wedge apart all the boards until you have completely taken the pallet apart. With some boards, you may need to use a splitting wedge and a mallet. Push the splitting wedge in between the boards and hit the end with the mallet. If you're not going to use the full length of the boards, you can simply saw off the ends of the pallet to make the boards easier to remove. That way, you'll only need to wedge the boards off in the middle. 16. **Build the base with 2 longer planks and several shorter planks.** Lay out 2 long planks parallel to each other. Aim for lengths of that are about the same size as your longest side, such as 20 inches (51 cm), plus the width of the wood. Across the planks, lay out smaller planks that are equal in length to your shortest side, such as 16 inches (41 cm). Place the smaller planks up against each other so they form a solid base for your planter. Leave a space on each edge of the long planks that's about the width of the wood, as you'll build up the sides off that area. Nail the smaller boards onto the longer boards. 17. **Begin building the walls up.** When putting your side walls in place, try to offset them at the corners. That is, when setting down 1 plank on its side, it should go all the way to the corner edge on one end but leave just enough space on the other end for the next side to come all the way into that corner. Nail the pieces into the base, as you should have left enough space that the boards sink down a little and you can nail it in from the side at an angle. 18. **Put in corner posts to stabilize your work.** Place a small piece of wood in each corner of the box and nail them into the bottom with your nails at an angle. You may need to cut a board in half to get a smaller piece of wood. These posts will provide something for you to nail into as you build your walls up. 19. **Continue building the walls up.** As you build up, continue to offset the boards but alternate which board goes to the corner on each layer. For instance, if a shorter side goes all the way to the corner on one layer, the longer side should go all the way to that corner on the next layer. As you make your walls, nail them into the corner posts and into each other at the sides, creating a stable structure. You can make your walls as high as you want, but you probably shouldn't go more than 3-4 planks high as it will get unwieldy. 20. **Sand and paint your planter as desired.** Use heavy sandpaper to sand the rough edges of your planter down. You can use a power sander if you'd like. After that, you can leave the planter as is or you can add a thin coat of paint to it for decoration.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Planter-Box-from-Pallets", "language": "en"}

How to Make a CD Sleeve from Paper

It's easy to lose a case for a CD or DVD. However, instead of buying another one immediately, you can craft a small sleeve for the disk out of paper in no time. The sleeves take less than a minute to create. Once you know how to construct one, you can make lots more. 1. **Put a CD or DVD at the top of the paper.** Lay a piece of paper in front of you in the portrait position. The short sides should be at the top and bottom. Then, place your CD, or DVD, at the top of the paper. As it's in the portrait position, the top side will be shorter. Align the top of the disk with the top edge. This step determines the size of the sleeve. 2. **Fold the vertical sides inwards.** Keep the disk where it is. Fold the right vertical side of the paper to the center of the disk. Then, fold the left side to the center too. Fold the paper as if you were trying to wrap the disk inside. The folds won't cover the entirety of the disk. 3. **Remove the disk and crease the vertical edges.** Take the disk out, making sure not to disrupt the folds. Crease the edges so they're flat and defined once the disk is removed. The paper should be able to hold its shape on its own. 4. **Place the disk in the center of the paper and fold the bottom side upwards.** Put the disk back on top of the paper so that it sits on the folds. Bend the bottom horizontal edge up to the disk in the center. The top of this fold should extend just above the central hole of the disk. Remove the disk once you're finished. Make the fold stronger by creasing it with your thumb, making the edge flat and defined. 5. **Pull the inside edges of the bottom fold out.** Rotate the paper so the fold you just made is furthest away from you. Bend the fold upwards. Pull the inside edges out, so the fold resembles an arrow. The parts of excess paper on the sides are called 'ears.' 6. **Fold the ears around the vertical edges.** Hold the ears you've just created. Fold them in along the vertical edge back into the original fold. You should see a paper pocket when both ears are creased back. 7. **Fold the top corners of the sleeve in, then insert the disk.** Rotate the paper so the unfolded side is farthest away from you. Fold both of the top corners back in. The point of these corners shouldn't reach the inner folds of the sleeve. Then, put the disk in the pocket you made earlier. 8. **Fold the top of the sleeve down and tuck it into the pocket.** Fold the top side of the sleeve down. The two corners you made will act as latches. Fold them into the pocket as well, over the disk. You can use a marker to label the other side of the sleeve with whatever is on the disk. 9. **Lay the paper out on a flat surface and fold the top left side down.** Put your piece of paper on a table in the landscape position. A long side should be closest to you. Grab the top left corner of the paper and fold it down to the lower edge, approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the bottom right corner. This is your first fold. Run your thumb along the curved edge of this fold to flatten it down. 10. **Fold the top right edge to the horizontal edge of the first fold.** Grab the top right corner of the paper. Crease it inwards so that the corner touches the vertical edge of the first fold. The top of the paper will now resemble a pyramid. This is your second fold. 11. **Unfold the first crease and turn the paper 90 degrees counter-clockwise.** Open out the first fold. You will see a long crease down the middle of the paper. Turn the paper 90 degrees counter-clockwise so that the short edge is facing you. 12. **Grab the top right corner and fold it in.** Grab the top right corner of the paper. Then, fold the corner to the center. The top edge of this fold will align perfectly with your second fold. Flatten down the crease with your thumb. This is your third fold. 13. **Crease your first fold back in, then flip the paper over.** Keep the paper in the same position. Then, re-do your first fold. It will naturally fall back into its position due to the pre-existing crease. Once you've flattened all the folds, turn the paper over so the flat edge of the first fold is closest to you. 14. **Fold the small remaining triangle inwards and re-orientate the paper.** A small triangle remains unfolded. Fold this triangle onto the back of the paper. This is your fourth fold. Then, re-orient the paper 90 degrees counter-clockwise so the short side of the folded paper is closest to you. 15. **Fold the bottom of the paper upwards, stopping at the fourth fold.** Take a note of where the bottom of the fourth fold is. Grab the bottom of the paper and fold it upwards so that the crease aligns with the bottom of your fourth fold. You will now have made a pocket, with a small triangle pointing upwards. Flatten all the edges so that they're defined and sharp. 16. **Put your disk in the pocket and fold the triangle downwards.** Slide a disk into the paper fold. It should fit snugly. Then, fold the triangle at the top of the sleeve down over the disk. This will keep the disk in place.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-CD-Sleeve-from-Paper", "language": "en"}

How to Be Diplomatic

Perhaps you are a manager looking to create a more positive work environment or maybe you are just looking to learn better conflict resolution skills. Diplomacy involves evaluating a situation before speaking or acting and taking the best course of action. While diplomacy can be difficult in certain situations, you can remain poised by being tactful, defusing difficult situations, and building relationships with others. 1. **Choose your words carefully.** Remember that though your intentions may be good, sometimes your words might hurt others. Before speaking about a sensitive topic, ask yourself if what you’re about to say is true, helpful and kind. Use “I” statements to describe your own thoughts instead of guessing at what others think or feel. For instance, you can say “I’m feeling uncomfortable with the decision made in today’s meeting” instead of “You should be upset about that decision today.” Always make statements from your own point of view and perspective. Avoid being defensive or blaming others. If you need to discuss something serious with someone, practice your words beforehand. 2. **Adapt your communication style based on the situation.** Always know your audience before delivering a message. This will help to ensure that it is well received and understood. Determine whether email or in-person communication works best or if news is best delivered in groups or in one-on-one settings. For instance, perhaps you need to tell your staff that there will be budget cuts. In the past you may have used email to deliver sensitive information, but have found that caused confusion. Call a staff meeting instead and deliver the facts while providing time for questions. Schedule individual meetings as necessary or requested. 3. **Be open to new ideas.** Instead of always making decisions on your own, listen to the perspectives of others. Thank them for telling you how they feel so that they always feel comfortable doing so. Take time to consider others’ opinions, but stand firm by your own decisions when you feel that you have made the best choice. Say “Thank you for your honesty, Jason. I’ll take what you said about universal healthcare into consideration and I’ll do more research.” 4. **Be assertive with your words and body language.** When speaking to others, don’t be aggressive, but do be confident. Speak slowly and deliberately. Sit with your legs and arms uncrossed and look people in the eye when they are speaking. You should still acknowledge when you don't know something. For example, say, "I'm not sure about that subject and don't know the answer right now, but I'll be sure to look into it further." 5. **Use indirect language.** Instead of being overly direct about your thoughts and feelings, add a bit of fluff. Make suggestions instead of telling people what to do. A diplomatic person does not bark out orders, but finds ways to inspire others to action instead. Your goal should be to collaborate with your team and encourage them to do their best. For instance, if you are managing a conflict between your children, you might say “You two might want to consider a better way to divide up the space in your room so that you fight less.” You can say to an employee who’s often late “Have you considered taking the interstate to work instead? It’s a bit quicker in my experience.” If you choose to say this, say it to someone who you have a good relationship with. It could be perceived as passive-aggressive in some contexts. 6. **Mind your manners.** Having good manners is key to diplomacy. Wait your turn to speak and never interrupt others. Be encouraging and avoid hurling insults. Keep your voice at a natural and neutral level and avoid cursing or yelling. 7. **Control your emotions.** Perhaps you have to work with people who you really don’t like or whose actions you consider offensive. However, being diplomatic is not just for those you get along with. Practice deep-breathing techniques to calm you when others stress you out. If you feel that you are going to cry or yell, walk away for a moment to use the restroom. Consider trying a meditation app such as Insight Timer to help you manage your emotions. Alternatively, you could try grounding yourself in the moment. Focus your attention on how your feet feel against the floor or how your buttocks feels against your chair. 8. **Pick a non-stressful time to talk.** If you need to have a conversation with someone over something serious, do so when you are both calm. This will help ensure that you can have a reasonable conversation. 9. **Start with a positive comment when giving bad news.** Before delivering upsetting information, ease the mood with some positive feedback or news. This will keep the other person calm and establish trust. Perhaps you are declining a wedding invitation. Instead of just replying “no,” send a card that says “Congrats on your upcoming wedding! I know it will be a beautiful day. Unfortunately, I have a work event, but I wish you nothing but the best and will mail my gift to you.” Be sure to do this when giving constructive criticism, as well. 10. **Focus on the facts of the situation.** Before a major talk, consider the facts. You don’t want to enter into conversation relying too much on emotion or opinion, but on reason and logic instead. During your talk, avoid blaming others or becoming defensive. You should not take things personally. Perhaps your office is undergoing a restructure. Rather than going to your boss and saying “I don’t like these changes” say “With our department having increased our sales by double in the last quarter, making cuts here will severely affect our ability to make a profit.” 11. **Find ways to compromise with others.** Determine both your goal and the goals of others. Think about what you desire to gain as well as what your counterpart wants and look for ways that these interests overlap. For instance, perhaps your spouse wants to move so the kids can go to a better school. You might want to stay because it’s close to your office. Consider private schools or moving just one town over. 12. **Express your likes and dislikes to create beneficial situations for everyone.** Once you have spoken about each of your objectives, find ways to negotiate. Diplomacy often involves giving up some things so that you can have other things that you desire. Be willing to do so for the sake of compromise and progress. Perhaps you are creating a chore list for you and your roommate. You may not mind doing the dishes but hate working outdoors. Perhaps your roommate has the opposite feeling. Offer to take on dish duty in the place of yard work. 13. **React calmly when given bad news.** Perhaps your boss tells you that you are being fired or your spouse says they are leaving you. Instead of yelling, hurling insults, or having a meltdown, show maturity through remaining calm. Take several deep breaths in and out. Respond positively and step away as needed to collect yourself. For instance, to your boss you might say “I’m very sorry to hear this. Is there a particular reason and is this a final decision?” Don't numb out your emotions or escape from them with things like drugs or alcohol. Instead, talk with a friend, engage in a fun activity, or get some exercise. If you are really struggling, see a therapist or counselor. 14. **Speak well of others.** When others are gossiping, don’t add fuel to the fire. You might work in a toxic environment where rumors are often spread, but don’t be a part of that. Refraining from gossip shows to others that you have character and integrity. 15. **Be honest and show people your true self.** A major element of being diplomatic is being real. When having these tough conversations, it’s vital to be truthful with others. If not, you won’t be able to get what you want and people won’t be able to form genuine relationships with you. Maybe you made an error on a project that has affected your team. Instead of shifting blame, say “I made an error on the report and that’s why we’ve been getting so many calls today. I apologize and I’m working to fix it. Let me know if you all have questions or need help.” 16. **Take a step back from the conversation.** Avoid making difficult decisions on the spot. Instead of making decisions that you’ll regret, walk away for a moment to think. For instance, you might be a supervisor working with an employee who is asking to work from home one day a week. Before saying ‘no’ immediately, consider their needs and reasoning. Find a way to compromise if possible and offer this flexibility to other staff as well. 17. **Make small talk to create comfort.** A major part of diplomacy is helping others feel comfortable with you. Instead of jumping right into a serious talk, establish a level of friendliness with others. Talk about each other's weekends, spouses, kids or hobbies. Discuss the latest news or TV shows that you’re watching. Help them feel at ease by showing your interest in their lives. Inject humor where you can. 18. **Mirror their body language.** Show empathy for them by mimicking their gestures and posture. If they are sitting with their hand resting under their chin, do the same. This shows that you are engaged in the conversation. Smile at them when you see them at first, as well. 19. **Use their name in conversation.** People often respond positively to the use of their own name. Every so often, use their name while you’re talking. It can be something simple like “Where would you like to have lunch, Kyle?” or something more serious like “Andrea, I’m so sorry to hear about your mother.” 20. **Be an attentive listener.** When having a talk with someone, avoid using your phone or daydreaming. Instead, actively listen to them so that you can understand their perspective. Relay back what they said to you to prove that you hear them. For instance, you might say “It sounds like having to take care of your mother and your small child is really taking a toll on your health.” 21. **Ask them questions.** Show that you’re listening to them by learning more about what they’re discussing. Ask them open-ended questions that require thought and more than a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Ask something like “Wow, you went to Greece? What made you decide to go there and what did you like best?”

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Diplomatic", "language": "en"}

How to Save a Choking Dog

Dogs use their mouths to explore the world, and, fortunately, their anatomy includes safeguards that make choking rare. But it isn’t impossible for a dog to experience choking, and it’s important that you be able to distinguish between a choking dog and a dog dealing with illness or another issue. In a life-threatening emergency there may not be time to contact a vet, in which case you must administer first-aid yourself; however, if the dog is uncomfortable but not in immediate danger, your better option is to keep them calm and seek veterinary advice. This article explains how determine if your dog is choking, and what to do if so. 1. **Check to see if your dog is coughing.** Initially, if your dog is capable of coughing, wait a few moments to see if your dog can manage to cough up the obstruction on their own. Call a vet if your dog is in immediate danger. Many vets provide an after-hours emergency hotline that you can call for help. Create a list of emergency vet numbers and keep it somewhere safe in case of an emergency. This way you won't have to go searching online for a number. Alternatively, add an emergency vet number to your phone contacts, or, if your vet supplies it, pick up a fridge magnet with contact details on it. 2. **Check for signs of choking.** Dogs may show several telling behaviors if they aren’t able to breathe. When trying to determine if your dog is choking, begin by first attempting to calm them — the more panicked the dog becomes, the greater their demand for oxygen and the worse the situation. Signs that a dog is choking include: Gagging or drooling excessively — this is one of the most obvious ways to tell if your dog is choking. If they are drooling heavily and unable to swallow, choking is more likely. Unable to swallow Standing in the “air hunger position” with their head and neck held low and in a straight line Acting unusually agitated or frantic, pawing at their mouth, and whimpering Coughing forcefully, wheezing, or gasping for breath Having grey or blue gums Having a visible object in the back of their throat Displaying exaggerated chest movements Collapsing Losing consciousness 3. **Encourage your dog to swallow.** This is a useful strategy to help you determine if your dog is truly choking. You can do so by offering your dog a treat, gently rubbing their throat, or by pinching their nostrils together. If your dog eats a treat, then they are not choking. Once the dog swallows, if the sound stops, they aren't choking. 4. **Look inside the dog’s mouth.** By visually checking the dog’s mouth, you can find out if an object is obstructing its airway and act accordingly. Gently open its mouth by squeezing its upper lip inwards over the big molars at the back of the mouth. At the same time, apply downward pressure on the point of its jaw to further open the mouth. Look as far back towards its throat as possible — it helps to have a flashlight and someone else to hold the dog for this. You are looking for any obstructions such as a piece of bone or a stick. Restrain a larger dog before opening its mouth wide. Do this by grabbing the scruff of hair between the ears and holding the dog's head steady. If you can see something in the throat, try to grip it with pliers and remove it. Take extreme care not to accidentally force the object further back. 5. **Call the vet.** If your dog is choking, showing signs of choking, or indeed having breathing difficulties, always phone your vet for advice. The exception to this rule is if your dog has completely collapsed or has lost consciousness. In that instance, begin administering what first-aid you can. You may be talked through first aid procedures while waiting for emergency help and likely you will be asked to bring your pet in immediately. If you cannot reach your vet, look for emergency 24-hour veterinarians. Their number will usually be in the phone book, or you can call a local animal welfare or rescue agency for details. Emergency vets or animal hospitals are usually available in major towns and cities. If you're in the US, your local emergency number will be able to give you the ASPCA or the Humane Society emergency number. They will have an emergency vet to give you help on the phone. 6. **Seek out someone else to help.** Whether you take your dog to the vet or try to administer first-aid, it’s best to have another person present to help you. If you need to drive your pet to an emergency vet, it is best to have one person with the dog to help immediately if the situation worsens. If the vet has you try to dislodge the object yourself, it’s advisable to do so with someone else's help. 7. **Rule out other causes.** Because you can do more harm than good by executing certain maneuvers on a dog that doesn't need them, it is important to be as certain as possible that the dog is actually choking and in danger, rather than merely appearing to choke. The following are conditions that may cause a dog to behave similarly to a dog that’s choking. : A common anatomical quirk found in many dogs is having a tongue and a soft palate that are too big for their mouth. This is especially common in brachycephalic dogs (those with shortened noses and baby-like faces) such as the Pug, Pekingese, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu, though it also occurs in small breeds such as the Poodle, West Highland White Terrier, Dachshund, Spitz, and Pomeranian. The result is that when the dog breathes in sharply, it physically sucks the end of the soft palate into the entrance of the windpipe. This temporarily narrows or blocks the windpipe, and the dog makes a series of dramatic snorting or gasping sounds, as if choking. This is only a temporary crisis because when the dog swallows, the soft palate flips away from the windpipe and the dog can breathe again. If you’re unsure, give the dog food or a treat. If it takes and swallows the food, it isn’t choking. : Kennel cough is an infection that causes the airway to become sore, inflamed, and irritable. Even the simple act of breathing in cool air can tickle the throat and trigger coughing episodes. This cough can be dramatic and is commonly mistaken for the dog having something stuck in its throat. Again, check to see if the dog is able to swallow by offering it something to eat. If it can swallow, it is extremely unlikely the dog is choking. Do, however, contact your vet to see if he or she would recommend an examination for the kennel cough. : An enlarged heart pressing on the airways or a heart in failure can sometimes mimic choking. The dog may breathe in a distressed manner, cough, and may even have blue-tinged gums. This condition is harder to differentiate from choking, but in general the signs are slow to develop, with the dog becoming less energetic and more lethargic for a day or two beforehand. Choking, on the other hand, is far more common in active, inquisitive dogs and comes on suddenly. 8. **Grasp the obstruction with pliers or tweezers.** If you are able to see the object blocking the airway and the vet advises you to do so, attempt to remove the obstruction gently. Only attempt to remove the obstruction if you can clearly see and grasp it and your dog is not frantic. You risk lodging the object in even deeper if you accidentally push it without being able to see it. If the dog is frantic, you risk being bitten badly. Go immediately to an emergency vet or animal hospital instead. 9. **Help your dog to dislodge the obstruction.** Gravity can help your dog dislodge an obstruction. To help, you will have to hold the dog upside down and try to shake the object loose. Pick up a small or medium dog by its hind legs. Hold the dog upside down and try to shake the object out of its mouth with the benefit of gravity. You won't be able to hold a larger dog upside down, so instead keep the front paws on the ground and lift up its hind legs (in the same manner as holding a wheelbarrow) and tilt the dog forward. 10. **Use back blows.** If you can't help your dog dislodge the object by tilting your dog forward, you can forcefully strike its back to help dislodge the choking hazard. Using the heel of your hand, deliver 4-5 sharp blows on the dog between the shoulder blades. Take care not to use excessive force with small dogs, as there is a risk of fracturing ribs, which itself can be life-threatening if a broken rib punctures a lung. If this does not work initially, try once more. 11. **Consider performing the Heimlich maneuver.** Because you can easily injure your dog using this maneuver, use it ONLY when all other options have been exhausted. Only start the Heimlich maneuver if you can be sure your dog is choking on an object. Place your arm around the dog's waist. Ensure that your dog's head points down, as gravity will help the object dislodge as you perform the procedure. Make sure your hold on the dog is firm, but not too tight. It is a good idea to have someone help you scruff the dog while you do this. It will help keep the dog steady and can restrain a frantic animal. Form a fist and bring your other hand around and cover your fist with it. Your two-handed fist should be placed on the soft spot just under the ribcage. The size of the dog will affect the exact positioning of your hands. If you have a small- to medium-sized dog, you will want to use 2 fingers rather than a fist (still using the same amount of force) so you do not damage your dog's ribcage. Quickly and firmly give 3-5 thrusts inwards and upwards. Repeat in sets of 3-5 thrusts up to 3-4 times. Take care not to use excessive force as you could crack ribs or rupture the spleen. 12. **Check to see that your dog is breathing normally once you've removed the object.** If not, then start artificial respiration on it immediately. If your dog has no pulse, commence CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) on your dog. If your dog needs resuscitative measures, do what you can immediately and have someone else call the vet to get further instructions. 13. **Take your dog to the vet.** Even if you manage to dislodge an object, it is a good idea to get your pet to the vet to be checked for any further problems or injuries. Keep your pet calm and get your dog to the vet as quickly and as safely as possible. Pay close attention to your dog to make sure it is able to maintain normal breathing.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Save-a-Choking-Dog", "language": "en"}

How to Avoid Someone You Are Attracted to

There are a lot of good reasons you might want to avoid someone that you’re attracted to. Maybe they are in a relationship, maybe you are in a relationship, or perhaps the person is a co-worker. You might just want to avoid someone you like because you know that they are not good for you. Whatever your reason, there are steps you can take to manage your crush in a healthy way. Keep reading for some helpful advice! 1. **Go out of your way to prevent bumping into the person.** This might seem pretty obvious, but it can also be challenging if you don't consciously think about it. You might not be able to totally stay away if you work or go to school with this person, but you can take extra steps to make sure you don’t see them unless you have to. It can be really challenging to switch things up, especially when you're doing it for an emotional reason. Remember to be patient with yourself and start by doing what you can. This could mean changing up where you grab lunch or your morning coffee. If you used to bump into them while walking your dog, consider taking an alternate route. 2. **Switch up your schedule so that you don't see them.** In addition to trying out new places, you can start doing things at different times of the day. This is a great way to avoid them knowing what you're up to and popping in to say hi. Pick a couple of changes to make that won't make you feel too off-balance. This might feel really difficult, or even sad, but you can do it. For example, if you used to work out at night, try hitting the gym or going for a run in the morning. It might seem like a pain to have to change your habits, but it’s probably one of the most effective ways to keep them out of sight. 3. **Avoid seeing their posts.** If you keep seeing fun pics of them pop up, it might weaken your resistance. It might also make you feel a wave of emotions that you'd rather avoid, which is totally normal. To steer clear of the temptation to scroll through their photos or even show up to the spot where they are, set them to mute on your social media accounts. If you want, you can unfriend them or stop following them. But if you’re worried that might invite questions or draw attention to yourself, the mute option is your best bet. You’ll stop seeing their posts but don’t have to stop being friends on social altogether. 4. **Don't flirt with them or touch them.** If they are also attracted to you, it can be even harder to not act on your feelings. This can be especially tricky if you can’t totally avoid them. Make it clear with your words and actions that you’re not interested in pursuing things, even if that feels really hard. Resist the urge to flirt even if they initiate it. Even if they start complimenting you and acting interested, resist the urge to reciprocate. If you work with them, say something like, “I’m trying to stay professional. Thanks for respecting that.” Avoid physical contact. Don’t casually touch them if you do run into each other. That can send the signal that you’re interested in them. It can be super tough to resist these urges, so don’t beat yourself up if you slip. Just try to get yourself back on track with a pep talk. 5. **Distract yourself from your crush by doing things you enjoy.** Take up a new hobby or revisit an old one. You could also take your mind off of your feelings by taking on an extra project at work if you feel up to it. Try something new like taking tennis lessons or going to a painting class. This will engage your mind and give you something to do with your time. You could also spend time on projects you’ve been wanting to tackle, like cleaning out your closets. Even though you're going through something tough, there can be benefits to this time. 6. **Make an effort to connect with your loved ones.** It will be fun and keep your mind off of your feelings. Just make sure to try to avoid places that you know the person you’re avoiding is likely to be. Ask your best friend to take that road trip the two of you have been talking about forever. See if your mom wants to start taking a long hike with you on the weekends. 7. **Reach out to a good friend for empathy.** It can be hard to be attracted to a person that you know you can’t be (or shouldn’t be) with. It could help you to process your emotions if you work through them with a good friend. They might be able to offer some insight and can probably offer you some much-needed support. Try saying, “Hey, I’m realizing I have feelings for Jamie. I don’t think it’s something I want to pursue, but I’m having trouble dealing with my attraction. Can you talk it out with me?” Make sure to choose someone that you can trust not to share your feelings with anyone else. 8. **Remind yourself of what could happen.** This can be emotionally tricky, so be patient with yourself during this process. If you’re trying to avoid someone you like, it might be because you know it’s not a good idea to be with them. Make a list of the reasons you know you shouldn't be together. It might help to see it in writing. When you need to talk yourself into staying away from them, remind yourself that you might get hurt if you pursue things. For example, you could tell yourself, “If I start seeing Taylor, it would really hurt Sam’s feelings. It hasn’t been very long since they broke up. I don't want to deal with that.” Or you might think, “Last time I tried dating Whitney, they hurt my feelings a lot. I felt bad about myself, and I don’t want to feel that way again.” Weigh the cons realistically. If you are attracted to someone that is off-limits, think about how being with them could harm your career, friendships, or family. If you or the other person is already in a relationship, remind yourself of that every time you are tempted to see them. 9. **Look for ways to redirect your thoughts.** Processing your emotions is really important, but there's a fine line between thinking things through and obsessing. It's normal if you're doing the latter, but try to break that habit of thinking of them all day so that you can move on. When you catch yourself thinking of them, acknowledge your thought, and then send it away. Think to yourself, "Okay, I'm thinking about Jaime. I'm going to shift my thoughts and think about game night with my friends instead." Try giving yourself a time limit. Tell yourself that you will think about them for 5 minutes and then you'll move on. Set a timer on your phone so you stick to it. 10. **When you're ready to date, look for someone that has those qualities.** Even though you can't be with this person, it doesn't mean that they don't have some great traits that you love. Think through why you are attracted to them and make a note of those attributes. Make these a priority when you're searching for someone new. For example, maybe they were really kind to your pets. Make "animal lover" a non-negotiable when you start dating. If you admired their work ethic, focus on finding someone new with that same quality. 11. **Walk away from the situation if you can.** This might feel nearly impossible, and that's understandable. You're in a really tough situation. If you've tried to shift your thoughts and set boundaries, good for you. But sometimes you might just need to cut off contact completely, even though that can be really tough. Don't answer their calls, texts, or social media messages. This can be super tough, so make sure to be kind to yourself. You can also lean on your friends when you need to. 12. **Evaluate if your needs are being filled.** Sometimes people develop a crush on someone very different from the person that they are currently with. That could mean that you are seeking change in your own relationship. Evaluate what attracts you to the person and then think about if that is a quality you’re missing in your partner. For example, maybe you’re attracted to someone because they share your love of music. Ask your partner if they’re willing to go to some more concerts with you. That might fill your need and cause your feelings for your crush to cool down. This might be pretty emotional. Tell yourself it's okay to feel whatever emotions you're dealing with. 13. **Make an appointment to talk to someone.** It can be really tough to deal with intense feelings towards someone, especially if you don’t feel like you can act on them. If this is causing you to feel depressed or causing you anxiety, seek professional help. They can help you figure out a healthy way to deal with the situation. Try not to be nervous if it's your first time seeking counseling. It can feel awkward at first, but you're doing a great job of prioritizing your mental health.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Someone-You-Are-Attracted-to", "language": "en"}

How to Make a Guinea Pig Toy

Guinea pigs enjoy having a variety of toys to chew on and explore. With just a few supplies you find around your home, and some hay and guinea pig treats from the pet store, you’ll be able to create guinea pig toys very quickly and cheaply. Soon enough, you’ll be letting your imagination run wild and creating all kinds of things for your guinea pigs to play with and chew on! 1. **Get a brown cardboard paper towel or toilet paper roll.** Don’t use the white cardboard rolls because these have been bleached. The untreated brown cardboard rolls are perfectly safe for guinea pigs to munch on. Make sure that any cardboard rolls you use are clean and don’t have any kind of glue residue on them. 2. **Stuff the tube with timothy hay.** Get some timothy hay from a pet shop and fill the cardboard tube with it. Timothy hay is the recommended hay for guinea pigs. You shouldn’t stuff the tubes with alfalfa because it is too high in calcium for guinea pigs to consume in large quantities. Use alfalfa in small quantities as a treat for adult guinea pigs. 3. **Place the stuffed cardboard rolls in your guinea pig’s cage.** Your guinea pigs will munch on these tubes and eat all of the hay inside. This will help them keep their teeth filed down and keep them entertained and happy. You can shove a treat in the middle of the hay inside of the tube to provide an extra incentive for your guinea pigs to reach the middle! Save your old cardboard rolls to make new toys once your guinea pigs finish all the hay and chew up the rolls. 4. **Find a clean old sock that you don’t need anymore.** Save all those old socks that you can’t find the partner to. Put them through the wash first if you aren’t sure whether they are clean. Long socks will be easier to tie off after you stuff them. 5. **Stuff the sock with hay and tie off the open end.** Fill the sock up with timothy hay from the pet store. Tie off the end of the sock around itself, with a piece of fabric, or with a piece of wool or cotton string. You should be able to tie off long socks around themselves. If it is difficult to tie off the sock, you could cut off a strip of fabric from the end of the sock to use to tie it closed. 6. **Cut out some holes in different places of the sock.** Use scissors or a knife to carefully cut some small slits in a few places on the sock. Pull out a bit of hay through each hole to give your guinea pigs something to pull on. You could stuff a guinea pig treat or two inside the sock as well for them to try to reach. 7. **Lay the sock down in your guinea pig's cage.** They will enjoy pulling the hay out through the different holes to munch on. They will even drag the sock around and play with it like a ball. You should remove the sock from the cage once they have pulled all of the hay out, or if it looks like it’s getting dirty. 8. **Get a brown cardboard shoebox with as little printing on it as you can find.** Your guinea pig will chew on the box. Brown, unprinted cardboard is the safest cardboard for your guinea pigs to gnaw on. Make sure the boxes don’t have any glue or another residue on them. Cut off and remove any parts that do. 9. **Cut some holes in the sides and top of the cardboard box.** Use scissors or a knife to carefully cut holes big enough for your guinea pig to run in and out of. A hole in the top will allow them to poke their head out and climb up on top of the box. You can even use multiple cardboard shoe boxes or other cardboard boxes to create bigger houses with multiple rooms and levels for your guinea pigs to explore. 10. **Put some hay, treats, and chew toys in the shoebox house.** Add some timothy hay to the house for the guinea pigs to snack on and hide some treats in the hay for them to find. Add other chew toys, like cardboard rolls stuffed with hay, that they can play with, then introduce your guinea pigs to their new playhouse! Be sure to let your guinea pigs play in the house in an area of your home that it is safe for them to run around in or within a closed playpen. 11. **Get a piece of fleece that will fit in your guinea pig’s cage.** Buy a few pieces of fleece from a craft supply store, or cut up an old fleece blanket into some rectangular strips. Cut a rectangular piece of fleece approximately 14 in (36 cm) wide by 30 in (76 cm) long. The measurements are just a general guideline and you can modify them to whatever fits in your guinea pigs cage. 12. **Cut strips on either side of the rectangular piece of fleece.** Cut the strips every 2 in (5.1 cm) on the shorter sides of the fleece. Make them about 12 in (30 cm) long so that there is a connecting piece in the middle that you will drape over the cage. Think of the curtains that you drive through at the car wash. This is what your fleece forest should resemble. 13. **Put the fleece piece over the top of the cage with the strips hanging down.** Place the middle piece of the fleece somewhere on top of the cage so that the strips you cut dangle down into the cage to create your fleece forest curtain. Your guinea pigs will enjoy running through it and hiding in it. You can make several fleece curtains and hang them in the same part of the cage to create a denser forest for your guinea pigs.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Guinea-Pig-Toy", "language": "en"}

How to Teach a Conure to Talk

Conures are not only fun to interact with, but they’re fun to talk to, too! Teaching a conure to talk can be a fun and rewarding project for both you and your bird. While many conures pick up words and phrases on their own, by training them to speak, you can speed up the process and teach them specific things to say on command. In this article, we’ll walk you through the training basics, as well as how you can build and maintain a great relationship with your bird. 1. **Repeat simple words to your conure.** For example, you can say "hello" or "hi", or you can repeat its name. Repeating this same word, in the same inflection, will allow your bird to study the sound you want it to mimic. A conure's first words should be short, about 1 or 2 syllables. 2. **Talk to your conure every day.** Say the same word repeatedly to the bird every day. This consistency and repetition is the best way to get a conure to repeat the word back to you. Saying the same word to your bird every day can get boring. However, you need to be consistent if you want the bird to learn to talk! The more repetition, the more likely your bird is to repeat it. While there’s no specific amount of time you should talk to your bird, the more you do it, the better! Constant interaction will encourage them to talk back to you. 3. **Reward your conure when it speaks.** Get to know your bird a little and figure out what motivates them. For some birds, it’s a treat; for others, it’s a fun toy. If they do repeat a phrase or a word, give them a reward to let your bird know it did a good job. Using positive reinforcement is the most effective way of training any bird. Trying to use punishment will only damage your relationship with a bird, and will make them less likely to follow commands in the future. Clicker training is a great way to reinforce positive behavior. Whenever your bird exhibits good behavior, click a clicker and give it a treat. Eventually, your bird will come to associate the sound of the clicker with good behavior and a reward. 4. **Record your voice and play it for your bird.** If you want your bird to work on speaking even when you are not around, you can play your recorded voice for it. Playing the words you want your bird to learn for an hour or two each day will help the bird learn them more quickly. This can be very helpful if you are going to leave town for a while and your conure will be in the care of someone else. Don’t want to record your voice? Look up parrot training videos on YouTube. You can find a handful of videos with short, simple phrases that loop for hours. 5. **Talk to your bird using longer phrases.** After your bird has learned a few simple words, increase the complexity of the words you are using. You can also teach it simple sentences once it has gotten the knack of talking. Try teaching your bird to say "I love you," "I'm pretty," or "How are you?" These are fun sayings that may be enjoyable to hear your bird say. 6. **Be patient, and give your bird time to learn.** Conures in particular can sometimes take a while to get the hang of new words. Have some patience and let your bird advance at its own rate. If you keep talking to your bird and interacting with it daily, it will pick up words in time. Conures are known for their loud screaming voices, especially at dusk. 7. **Feed it nuts, berries, fruits, and vegetables.** A fed bird is a happy bird! In the wild, conures eat mostly nuts and seeds, but they occasionally snack on flowers and grains as well. Keep plenty of food on-hand to strengthen your relationship with your conure and make them more likely to talk to you. Taking good care of your conure is essential for their health and happiness. 8. **House your conure in a large enough cage.** If you have a small conure, buy a cage that’s at least 24 × 16 × 20 in (61 × 41 × 51 cm). For a large conure, get a cage that’s at least 44 × 26 × 40 in (112 × 66 × 102 cm). This will give your active conure plenty of room to grow and play. Keeping your bird in a cage that’s too small could make them depressed, which makes them much less likely to talk. 9. **Give your conure attention every day.** Conures are social birds, and they don’t like to be left alone. Throughout the day, take your conure out of its cage and talk to it a lot. Play games with your conure and introduce new toys to entertain it and keep it happy. If a conure is bored, they’re sure to let you know—they might develop bad habits like chewing or screaming. Try scratching your conure’s head or softly tossing foot toys (balls or woven ropes) to keep them occupied. 10. **Be gentle with your bird to build trust.** In order to train your conure to speak, you need to build trust with it. A bird that is new to your home may not want to complete commands for you immediately. Talk to it in a gentle voice and quietly whistle or sing to the bird on a regular basis. Feed the conure treats by hand. This will show the bird that you are friendly and that you will give it things it likes.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-a-Conure-to-Talk", "language": "en"}

How to Kill Fleas Naturally

Got a case of the fleas? It happens to all pet owners from time to time. If the thought of using flea bombs and sprays to get rid of these pests gives you the jitters, you'll be happy to know that using natural flea control methods can also be effective. Your vacuum is the most powerful tool you can use against fleas, and safe, natural household supplies like baking soda are close runners up. Using these easy, chemical-free methods is the best way to get rid of fleas for good. 1. **Give your pet a natural flea bath.** The first step to treating your flea-infested pet is to give it a bath. You can take your pet to the vet to get a chemical bath, but if you'd prefer to address the problem with a natural approach, try the following flea bath solutions: Make a rosemary dip. Cover 2 1/2 cups of fresh rosemary sprigs with water and boil for 1/2 hour. Add the rosemary water to a gallon of warm water. While the water is still warm, pour it over your pet. Use soapy water. It may also be effective to use a solution of water mixed with a gentle foaming soap. Bathe your cat or dog carefully using warm water. 2. **Use a flea comb after the bath.** The dip solutions will have killed some of the fleas, but you still need to remove the eggs. Purchase a flea comb from your pet store and use it to carefully comb your pet's fur to remove all traces of fleas. 3. **Treat your pet with a natural flea repellant.** Fleas are repelled by a few natural scents and oils that you can apply directly to your dog. Cats, on the other hand, can be harmed by certain oils, so avoid treating your cat unless a certain substance has been recommended by the vet. Here are a few options for treating your pet: Lavender essential oil. Rub some on your dog's neck and back. This is said to both kill and repel fleas. Eucalyptus oil. Make a spray by mixing 1 cup of water and 5 drops of oil, then spray your dog thoroughly to repel fleas. Do not use this treatment on cats. 4. **Repeat until the fleas are gone.** In all likelihood, you'll have to dip, comb, and treat your pet several times before the battle is over. Keep an eye on your pet for signs of more fleas, and plan to dip your dog or cat once every week or so to kill the fleas that hatch over time. 5. **Wash your pet's bedding in hot water.** As soon as you realize your house has fleas, immediately wash your pet's bedding in very hot water to kill all of the fleas and their eggs. Wash other items your pet has touched, such as cloth toys, pillows, and so on. 6. **Wash your sheets and other linens.** It's likely that the fleas have spread beyond your pet's domain, so go ahead and wash everything else, too. You may need to wash your clothes, your bedding (if your pet sleeps with you), your couch cushions, and anything else where fleas could live. 7. **Vacuum the carpet and upholstered furniture.** Using a heavy-duty vacuum, vacuum your carpet thoroughly. Take your time, and go over the entire area more than once. You can also vacuum your sofa, upholstered chairs, and rugs. Use the hose attachment to vacuum the cracks in your baseboards, too. Vacuuming has been proven to kill fleas. It sucks up adult fleas as well as their eggs. After you vacuum, empty the vacuum bag. Otherwise, the fleas will hatch from their eggs and climb out of the vacuum to re-infest your home. 8. **Treat your carpet with baking soda.** Cover the entire carpet with a layer of baking soda. Go ahead and use up several boxes. Let the baking soda sit on the carpet for at least 4 hours or overnight, then vacuum it up. The baking soda dries out the eggs in the carpet, helping to kill the next round of fleas before they hatch. You can use borax instead of baking soda to treat your carpets. Be sure to vacuum it thoroughly after the treatment. Salt is another cheap and effective flea killer. Use it the same way you'd use baking soda. 9. **Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your rooms.** This completely natural powder kills adult fleas (and other insects) by piercing their exoskeletons when they walk over it. Wear a mask as you sprinkle it in areas where you have seen adult fleas. Leave it for 24 hours, then vacuum it up. 10. **Use a dehumidifier.** If your home is on the humid side, you're providing the perfect climate for fleas. You can make your house less hospitable by using a dehumidifier to make the air drier. You could also turn on the AC, your fans, or a heater, depending on the season. 11. **Keep your lawn short.** If you have fleas in your house, they're probably in your yard, too. They thrive in tall grass, which shades them from the hot sun and keeps their environment moist. Exposing them to the sun is the best way to kill them. Mow your lawn frequently so that the grass won't get tall enough to shelter the fleas. 12. **Use borax.** Sprinkle it in areas where you have seen adult fleas just as you would any carpet deodorizer. Leave it for 24 hours, then vacuum it up thoroughly. This method will kill a full blown infestation in just days. 13. **Give your pets apple cider vinegar.** Put a teaspoon of ACV in your pet's water dish. The vinegar is a natural flea repellant, and will help keep fleas at bay once the infestation is over. This is a safe treatment for both dogs and cats. 14. **Place cedar chips around your house.** The smell of cedar is another natural flea repellant. Placing some cedar chips near your pet's bedding, outside in your flower bed, or in other strategic areas can help keep fleas away. 15. **Spray your house with eucalyptus oil.** If you have a cat, don't use this trick, since cats are sensitive to eucalyptus. Otherwise, spray your home's nooks and crannies, the carpet, your drawers, and your dog's bedding with a mix of eucalyptus oil and water to keep fleas out. 16. **Vacuum often.** Your pet will probably bring in a flea or two from time to time, but it doesn't have to become a full-blown infestation. Vacuuming regularly will kill fleas before they have the chance to reproduce.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Kill-Fleas-Naturally", "language": "en"}

How to Breathe Properly for Singing

The most important part of singing is knowing how to breathe properly. Without proper breath support, your voice won’t be able to support the notes you want to sing. How you inhale will affect how you exhale, which will then affect the quality of sound, volume, pitch, and tone of your voice. With a solid understanding of how to properly breathe, you will be able to fully utilize your singing voice and become a much better singer! 1. **Place one hand on your lower back and one on your abdomen.** Before you even begin to sing or practice breathing, place your hands on your back and abdomen, near waist-level. This will help you feel your body’s movement as you inhale and exhale deeply. You will feel your body expand as you breathe in and contract as you breathe out. 2. **Inhale by filling your lower lungs with air.** As you inhale with a deep breath, visualize yourself filling the lower portion of your lungs with air. This will feel different from your normal breathing because our relaxed, daily breathing is usually quite shallow. As you breathe in, your hands on your back and abdoment should move outward. It may help to visualize yourself filling your stomach with air, as it if is a balloon. 3. **Exhale by allowing your stomach to contract.** As you exhale, try to exhale all of the air in your lungs, so that the next time you inhale, you will be starting with all new air. Imagine that your stomach is a balloon and you are deflating it. Your abdomen will contract at this point, moving your hands inward. 4. **Do not move your chest.** As you breathe, do not allow your chest to move. Your chest and shoulders normally move up and down in your daily breathing, but when you are singing, you will want to always breathe from the deepest part of your lungs. When you are breathing from the lower part of your lungs (your diaphragm), your chest should very little, if at all. Focus on breathing horizontally, rather than vertically. Breathing horizontally means that your diaphragm and abdoment should move outward instead of the usual up-and-down movement that accompanies shallower breathing. 5. **Place one hand on your abdomen and the other on your back.** You will place your hands near waist level. This will allow you to feel how your body moves as you inhale and exhale. 6. **Inhale forcefully.** As you inhale through your mouth, visualize the air moving into your diaphragm, the muscles below your lungs that help you to inhale and exhale. Your hands should move outward as you fill your lower lungs with air. 7. **Exhale forcefully.** Use your stomach muscles and diaphragm to force the air rapidly and with force. Exhale through your mouth. You will feel your hands moving inward as your diaphragm contracts. 8. **Repeat thirty times.** As you do this, visualize yourself breathing horizontally, rather than vertically. Your abdomen will expand and contract horizontally as you do so. Start out slowly and then pick up the tempo as you continue. If you find yourself slipping into breathing with your chest, stop and start over, breathing slowly again. Repeat this exercise once or twice daily. 9. **Imagine there is a rubber ring around your waist.** The key to effective breathing for singing is in the breath. The most important aspect of breathing is breathing with your diaphragm, the muscles underneath your lungs that help them to move air in and out. A great way to visualize breathing with your diaphragm is to picture a rubber ring around your waist. This ring will move in and out, getting bigger and smaller, with each inhale and exhale. 10. **Breathe in and attempt to push the ring outward.** As you inhale through your nose, visualize the ring around your waist getting bigger and expanding horizontally. Your stomach should protrude as you inhale this way. 11. **Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.** As you exhale, attempt to make the ring contract and become smaller. This visualization should help you to breathe with your diaphragm, thus improving your singing. Breathing through your nose ensures better breath control and helps you to breathe in more slowly, allowing you to focus on how you are breathing, rather than how much air you are sucking in. 12. **Avoid tension in the shoulders.** It is common to hunch your shoulders as you breathe. Sometimes tension creeps up on us. Another important aspect of singing is to relax our muscles. This will allow them to move properly. If you feel tension in your shoulders, remind yourself to relax. Visualize your neck getting longer and the tension melting away from your shoulders and into the ground. It can also help to take a few long, deep, slow breaths to relax and stabilize your mind and body. 13. **Lay flat on your back.** Find a flat surface where you will be able to comfortably lay down and stretch out. If you have trouble laying flat on a hard surface, try a carpeted surface or your bed. Use a pillow to support your neck, back, or knees, wherever you feel you need support. 14. **Place your hands on your waist.** You will place your hands on either side of your belly button. Your fingers will point toward your belly button. 15. **Fill your stomach from the bottom to the top as you inhale.** Do not aim to fill yourself until you feel like you are bursting; rather, inhale just enough air to feel the difference between shallow breathing with your chest and deep breathing with your diaphragm. During the inhale, you will feel your hands raise up and outward as they rest gently on your belly. As you breathe in, fill your abdomen from the bottom to the top, noticing your stomach rising first, then your chest. You should not only feel your body expanding at the front, where your hands are, but also at the sides and back. 16. **Breathe out to a count of five.** Gently exhale and slowly count to five. Do not worry about getting all of the air out of your lungs. You will simply notice your stomach area contract, starting with your stomach and ending with your chest. 17. **Repeat ten times.** Whenever you do this breathing exercise, repeat it ten times. Practice it daily, once before you get up in the morning and once before you go to sleep at night.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Breathe-Properly-for-Singing", "language": "en"}

How to Make Your Own Skin in Minecraft

While playing Minecraft in multiplayer you'll see everyone has a different one. But the problem is you didn't know you could change it. Now you want your own personal skin, and you're getting antsy. Follow this article to know how! 1. **Know that you need to have purchased Minecraft in order to change your skin.** Bootlegged, illegal copies will not support a skin change, because you need to upload the skin change to, or change your skin from, your Profile page. 2. **Create your own skin in a skin editor and creator.** Find a skin editor or creator online. Many players choose the editor Skincraft, as it is easy to use, understandable, and versatile. Type "Skincraft" into your search engine to try it. When you go to an editor like Skincraft, you'll see that you can customize your skin one body part at a time. You'll be able to use different tools in order to change your current skin bit by bit, or customize an entirely different skin. When you have finished creating or editing your skin, save it as a .png file and be sure to locate it. You'll need to upload it to your Profile page of www.minecraft.net in order for the changes to take effect. 3. **Download a skin.** Think of a skin you want and search for a downloadable version of it. Many users use a character like Santa or mobs from minecraft as their skin. If you think the skin you want has already been made, you may be able to find it on the Skindex, a site with thousands of skins. You can search your skin and download it from there, and afterwards uploading it to your Profile page. 4. **Use a mod to create a cape as an enhancement of your skin.** Although capes cannot be readily created on their own, they can be made with the held of mods. Search Minecraft forums for mods that enable the use of capes if you want to outfit your character with a little bit of flair. 5. **Be sure to upload your skin to Minecraft.** Log in and upload your skin. After uploading, the next time you join a server, you will have your own skin on. 6. **Choose from among the 8 default skins available to Xbox or PlayStation players.** In the "Change Skin" area of Help & Options, choose from among Default, Tennis, Tuxedo, Athlete, Scottish, Prisoner, Cyclist, and Boxer Steve or Alex. 7. **Download skin packs to change out the default options.** Trial versions of the skin packs are available for free download, although permanent packs must be purchased. Purchase your skins through the Xbox 360 Marketplace or PSN Store. There are currently 10 skin packs, but there is an Xbox exclusive skin pack that comes with the Halo mash-up pack and a PlayStation exclusive skin pack that comes with the LittleBigPlanet mash-up pack.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Own-Skin-in-Minecraft", "language": "en"}

How to Crochet Baby Booties

You may be considering making some baby booties as an adorable gift for new parents or as something cute for your own baby to wear. Crocheting baby booties may seem a little daunting, but they are actually quite easy if you understand some basic crochet stitches and techniques. If you have never crocheted before or if it has been a while, then you may want to refresh your crochet skills first. 1. **Choose your yarn.** A soft, lightweight yarn is best for baby booties, such as a #1 super fine or #2 fine yarn. You can find these yarn ratings on the yarn wrapper. Most craft stores carry special types of yarn for knitting baby projects such as blankets and booties. Select the yarn type and color that will fit your vision for the booties and that will make the booties feel nice and soft as well. 2. **Get the right sized hook.** You will need a size G-6 (4 mm) hook to make these booties. The hook size is usually on the hook handle, but you can also get a hook sizer to check your hook size if you are unsure. 3. **Check your gauge.** Gauge refers to the number of stitches that is required to make a certain type of yarn reach a specific measurement. The gauge also relies on the needle size. Gauge is important to make sure that the garment you create will be the right size. The combination of yarn and hook should yield a half double chain of 15 stitches that is about four inches (10 centimeters) long. If your gauge is off, adjust as needed with a lighter or heavier yarn or by changing the size of your hook. 4. **Make a chain of 11 stitches.** This chain will be the base of your first bootie. After you have your chain, you can turn back and begin single crochet stitch on the chain. Continue to crochet around the bootie foundation in single crochet stitch for one round. You should have 24 stitches when you finish the first round. 5. **Create two chain stitches then join with two half double stitches.** Then, crochet eight half double stitches followed by five stitches with two half double stitches each. Then return to single half double stitches for the next eight stitches and then do another five stitches with two half double stitches in each one. Join this round with a slip stitch in the top of the beginning round. You should have 32 stitches at the end of this round. 6. **Crochet two chain stitches then join with two half double stitches.** Next, crochet 12 half double stitches followed by two stitches with two half double stitches each. Then, crochet single half double stitches for the next 12 stitches and follow these with another two stitches with two half double stitches in each one. Join this round with a slip stitch in the top of the beginning round. You should have 36 stitches at the end of this round. 7. **Make two chain stitches and then work the back loops.** Use half double stitch to crochet around until the end. Only work the back loops for the round. Join the round with a slip stitch. You should have 36 stitches at the end of this round. 8. **Create two chain stitches and then work both loops.** Use half double stitch to crochet around until the end. Work the stitches through both loops for this round. Join the round with a slip stitch. You should have 36 stitches at the end of this round. 9. **Crochet two chain stitches and then half double stitch for 10 stitches.** Then, half double stitch two together six times and then half double stitch to the end of the round. Join the end with a slip stitch. You should have 30 stitches at the end of this round. 10. **Make two chain stitches and then half double stitch for nine stitches.** Then, half double stitch two stitches together four times. Follow these four stitches with half double stitch to the end of the round. Join the end with a slip stitch. You should have 26 stitches at the end of this round. 11. **Stitch one chain and then single crochet for nine stitches.** Follow this by half double stitching two stitches together twice. Then, single crochet until the end of the round and join with a slip stitch. You should have 24 stitches at the end of this round. 12. **Create one chain stitch and then single crochet the next five stitches.** Follow this with four chain stitches, then skip the next eight stitches. Next, single crochet to the end of the round and join with a slip stitch. Weave in the ends to finish the bootie. You may need to use a yarn needle to do this. Repeat these steps to create the second bootie.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Crochet-Baby-Booties", "language": "en"}

How to Kill Spider Eggs

Most of the time, it’s easy to deal with spider eggs before they become a problem. Start by trying to identify the spider species. While most spiders are harmless, you should look for characteristics of poisonous spiders to stay on the safe side. If you’re dealing with a venomous species or major infestation, it’s wise to call in a professional. Usually, vacuuming up spiders and their egg sacs is the easiest and most effective solution. You could also spray a pesticide directly onto spiders and egg sacs. Just make sure your product is oil-based, as water-based pesticides are ineffective against egg sacs. 1. **Identify the spider and egg sacs** Almost all spiders are harmless, but there are a few species with bites that require medical attention. If possible, check the egg sacs and any nearby spiders for characteristics of venomous species. Consider calling in a professional to deal with poisonous spiders. The various black widow species are distinguished by the red markings, usually in the shape of an hourglass, on their abdomen’s underside. They spin funnel-shaped cobwebs, and their egg sacs are beige to yellow, smooth, round, and 1 to 1.25 centimetres (0.39 to 0.49 in) in diameter. Brown widows are venomous, but not as aggressive as black widows. The hourglass-shaped markings under their abdomen can be yellow or orange, and they have dark bands on their legs. Their egg sacs are also beige to yellow, but are covered with little silk spikes. Brown recluse spiders have long bodies and slender legs. They are distinguished by a dark, violin-shaped mark on their back, and unlike most spiders, they only have 6 eyes. Their webs are flat, patternless, and sheet-like, and their egg sacs are silky, somewhat rough and irregularly shaped, and average 1.5 centimetres (0.59 in) in diameter. 2. **Have a professional deal with an infestation.** It’s wise to call in a professional if you have a major infestation on your hands, such as a cellar with spiders and egg sacs at every turn. Among the poisonous species, brown recluse spiders are particularly difficult to control. Brown recluse spiders can go months without food or water. Since they’re hunting spiders, they wander, hide, and are fast. Spiders that wait in their webs for prey are easier to control. 3. **Wear protective clothing if you deal with a venomous species yourself.** You’ll need to protect yourself if you don’t feel like hiring a professional just to deal with an egg sac or two. Before heading into battle, put on a pair of work gloves and wear long sleeves and pants. 4. **Vacuum up spiders, webs, and egg sacs with a long attachment.** In most cases, your vacuum cleaner is your best line of defense against spiders and their egg sacs. If the egg sac is in a vacuum-accessible spot, use an attachment to suck it up along with any nearby spiders. You can also use a duster to remove any webbing and eggs. 5. **Empty the vacuum bag outdoors.** Take your vacuum outside to remove the bag. If it’s disposable, just seal it and throw it in a lidded outdoor trash container. If the chamber’s non-disposable, carefully empty it into a trash bag, seal the bag, and toss it an outdoor garbage bin. Spiders are fragile, so vacuuming one up will easily kill it. However, the egg sac offers a little more protection, so eggs or spiderlings might survive. 6. **Freeze the bag if you’re dealing with a venomous species.** You might want to take extra precautions if you’re dealing with poisonous spiders. If possible, stick the vacuum bag in a freezer chest or cooler for several hours before you throw it in the garbage. Give your freezer chest or cooler a good cleaning when you’re finished. 7. **Purchase an oil-based aerosol pesticide instead of a water-based product.** Pesticide might be the way to go if the egg sac isn’t in a vacuum-accessible spot, if you don’t have a vacuum, or if you just don’t want to deal with lugging around the vacuum. Look online or at your home improvement store for a oil or petroleum-based product. Since egg sacs are water repellent, water-based pesticides are ineffective. Go for a direct aerosol, or spray, product. Foggers are also ineffective against spiders. 8. **Follow safety precautions when using potentially dangerous chemicals.** Stay on the safe side and wear gloves, long sleeves, and a breathing mask. If you have pets, check your product’s safety warnings for information about keeping animals away from treated areas. 9. **Spray spiders and egg sacs directly.** Spray the affected areas according to your product’s instructions. Even after using a pesticide, it’s best to sweep or vacuum the treated area. Oil-based products are highly effective egg killers, but you don’t want to take any chances. In addition, if you just leave a web intact, it might trap insects and attract other spiders. 10. **Put down sticky traps if you’re dealing with hunting spiders.** Sticky traps are basically pieces of cardboard covered with adhesive. If you’ve seen hunting spiders that run around on the floor, such as wolf or brown recluse spiders, place sticky traps along walls, behind furniture, and at potential entry points, like near cellar or garage doors. Pesticides are more effective against web-weavers than hunting spiders, which can just run away from chemical spray. If you’ve sprayed an egg sac but the mother spider scurried away, you might have another egg sac on your hands sooner rather than later. Most spiders only need to mate once in their life, but can produce up to 5 egg sacs. 11. **Consider having an exterminator put down a chemical barrier.** If you continue to have problems, a pesticide barrier around your home could be your best solution. If you’re dealing with a hunting species, you or the exterminator should also put down sticky traps.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Kill-Spider-Eggs", "language": "en"}

How to Survive an Encounter with a Crocodile or Alligator

Crocodilians--alligators, crocodiles, caimans, and their kin kill hundreds of people each year. While most of these attacks occur in Africa and Asia, these powerful reptiles are also found in parts of South America, Australia, Mexico, and the southern United States. Crocodilians typically do not include humans in their diet, but in truth they will eat just about anything if given the opportunity. They will also defend their territory vigorously, especially during mating season. The best way to stay safe in these animal's habitat is to give the creatures space and exercise caution around water where they may live. In the event that you are attacked, you may be able to survive if you fight back strategically. 1. **Learn where crocodilians live and stay away.** The only sure way to survive an encounter with a crocodile or alligator is to never meet one in the first place. Crocodilians live in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia, and depending on the species, can live in both fresh and salt water. If you live in or visit a tropical region, ask local residents and authorities about the presence of crocodiles, alligators, or caiman before approaching any bodies of water. Take warning signs about the presence of crocodiles seriously. Never go swimming outside of designated areas in regions where crocodilians are known to live. If a potential swimming area is unmarked, do not assume that it is safe. Interestingly, almost 95% of recent crocodile attacks in northern Australia have involved locals. Don't let your familiarity with crocodilians lead you into a false sense of security around them. 2. **Use extreme caution around water where crocodilians live.** Over 90% of crocodile attacks occur in or near the water and you must use extreme care to avoid them. Crocodilians usually live in and around slow-moving water with a lot of mud and vegetation, and can most often be found in swamps and marshes. They can also inhabit lakes, ponds, rivers, estuaries, man-made canals and the occasional swimming pool. Saltwater crocodiles can also be found on ocean beaches, and even traversing the open sea! Swimming in water where crocodilians live is an obvious danger, but crocs also attack people who are fishing, gathering water, or wading at the water's edge. Crocodiles, in particular, are also known to attack and overturn boats, and will even grab people off of boats and drag them into the water. 3. **Know when crocs are at their most dangerous.** Crocodilians can attack at any time, but are most active and most dangerous at dusk and at night. Try to be well away from the water before nightfall, but still remember to stay alert during the day. If you are on or near infested water after dark, use a flashlight or headlamp to check the area frequently for eye-shine. 4. **Use extra caution during breeding season.** Alligators and crocodiles are at their most dangerous during mating and breeding season when they are more aggressive. These animals are also more frequently encountered on land during this period, as they sometimes wander in search of a mate or suitable nesting site. Nesting mothers are especially ferocious, and will defend their nests viciously. The breeding season for crocodilians differs by species and location. If you live in an area where they live, familiarize yourself with the habits of the native population, and be especially on guard during breeding season. Breeding season for freshwater crocodiles in Australia typically begins in July and August, with nesting season extending from September to April. Florida's alligator population usually breeds beginning in May, with breeding and nesting season lasting for several months. During breeding season, remember to use caution both on and around infested waters, and when walking through grass or vegetation near the water. 5. **Remain constantly aware of your surroundings.** If you must be on or near water where crocodilians live, remain vigilant at all times. Remember that crocodilians are experts at hiding, and even a giant croc might show nothing more than its nostrils above the surface of the water. Be especially wary around muddy or murky water, and where vegetation is present. It's safest to assume that even if you can't see the crocodilians, they are still there. Keep your distance from the water when walking on the shore, and avoid patches of vegetation where these animals could hide. An alligator that feels threatened may hiss at you. If you hear a hissing alligator, try to determine where the sound is coming from, and then leave in the opposite direction as quietly and quickly as you can. 6. **Do not walk your dog near alligator or crocodile habitats.** Crocodilians are attracted to the sound and movement of small animals, and American alligators are reportedly quite fond of eating dogs. If you do walk your dog near the water, keep it on a leash and be on guard for any movement on or near the water. 7. **Do not allow small children to play near the water's edge, or remain unattended in crocodilian country.** Crocodilians prefer smaller prey and unfortunately, attacks on children are quite common. 8. **Do not feed alligators or crocodiles.** Feeding these animals teaches them to lose their natural wariness around people and to associate people with food. Never feed them intentionally, and be careful not to feed them accidentally by throwing fish scrap and other edible refuse into the water. Only feeding young animals is not OK. Remember that a 2-foot long alligator will eventually grow up to be a 10-foot long alligator that might still expect humans to feed it. This is dangerous for both the animal and any humans it might meet. 9. **When camping in crocodile or alligator country, be sure to set up your camp far away from the water.** You should pitch your tent at least 2 meters (6 feet) above the high water mark, and at least 50 meters (164 feet) from the water's edge. Check the area to make sure that previous campers have not left out food and garbage that may attract crocodilians to your location, and clean up any that you find. Store food securely, and dispose of all food scraps and garbage in secure cans away from your campsite. 10. **Keep your distance from alligators and crocodiles when you see them.** If you do spot a crocodilian, keep as far from it as possible. Australian wildlife officials state that the minimum safe distance from crocodiles on the water is at least 25 meters (about 82 feet), and that boats should stay at least 10 meters (33 feet) away. Large crocodilians can launch themselves through the water at speeds of up to 60 kmh (37 mph), faster than most people can react. Crocodilians can also launch themselves vertically from the water. Don't stand on docks or low bridges over water, or lean over the side of boats or hang from trees over infested waters. 11. **Never approach an alligator or crocodile nest.** If you spot baby crocodilians or a nest, leave the area as quickly and quietly as you can. Mother crocodilians will defend their young fearlessly and must not be provoked. Occasionally crocodilians wander into populated areas, especially when people live very close to the water. If you encounter a crocodilian in your backyard, pool, etc. first get to safety and then call the local authorities. 12. **If you fall into water where crocodilians live, remain calm.** Splashing around and shouting attracts attention from crocodilians and may incite them to attack. Swim or wade to the shore as quickly, quietly and calmly as you can, preferably staying below the water's surface to avoid splashing. 13. **If you spot a crocodilian on land, stay calm and depart the area slowly.** Do not try to approach the animal, attack it, or try to move it. If you spot one of these animals in a populated area, such as a backyard or parking lot, first get to a safe distance from the animal and then call local wildlife authorities to have it removed. 14. **If a crocodilian snaps or charges at you on land, RUN.** Should you accidentally happen upon an alligator or crocodile, or if one begins to move towards you, run away from the animal as quickly as you can. As fast as they are in the water, the top land speed for a crocodilian is only 17kmh (10 mph), a speed that most humans can surpass over short distances. Be sure to run away from the water to avoid running into the jaws of more crocodilians. Forget the conventional wisdom about running in a zig-zag pattern to escape; the quickest way to escape an alligator or crocodile is in a straight line. This is because humans (and other animals) run faster in straight lines. 15. **Do your best to stay calm and fight back strategically.** While the very notion of remaining calm during an animal attack may seem preposterous, doing so may be the only thing that saves your life. If the crocodilian merely bites you at first and lets go, this is probably a defensive attack. Don't wait or try to attack it, just run away as quickly as you can. If the animal seizes hold of you, however, it will likely try to drag you into the water. In this case, you will need to attack it until it lets go. 16. **Attack the animal's eyes.** The eyes of the crocodilian are its most vulnerable part, and several croc-attack survivors have reported eye-gouging as their salvation. Attempt to gouge, kick, or poke the animal in the eye with your hands or whatever you can grab. Don't give up until you are free, you are literally fighting for your life. 17. **Attack the animal's head.** If you land as many blows as possible on the animal's head, you stand a higher chance that it will let go. Bystanders observing a crocodilian attack can assist by striking at the animal with sticks, poles, oars, etc., and by kicking and even punching the animal, especially in the head. 18. **Attack the palatal valve behind the animal's tongue.** Crocodilians have a flap of tissue behind the tongue that covers their throats when they submerge in water. This flap prevents water from flowing into their throats and prevents the crocodile from drowning when its mouth is open. If the animal has dragged you under the water, grabbing hold of this valve may be your only choice. Once you get hold of the valve, it will cause water to flow into the crocodile's throat, forcing it to release you. Hard strikes to this valve may also cause the animal to release you. 19. **Seek medical attention immediately.** Not only do crocodilian attacks tend to cause a lot of tissue damage and blood loss, they can also quickly lead to infection. These animals harbor a massive amount of bacteria in their mouths, and even a minor bite from a small alligator or caiman can quickly lead to infection if not treated right away.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Survive-an-Encounter-with-a-Crocodile-or-Alligator", "language": "en"}

How to Increase Oxygen Saturation

Oxygen saturation (Sa0₂) relates to the circulation of oxygen through your bloodstream, with recorded levels above 95% typically considered healthy and levels below 90% typically considered problematic. People with medical conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often have reduced oxygen saturation levels, which can lead to shortness of breath, lethargy, tiredness, weakness, and a host of more serious problems. Medical intervention, such as the use of supplemental oxygen, is the best way to deal with chronically low oxygen saturation, but there are some things you can do on your own to improve your levels. 1. **Breathe more slowly and deeply.** You breathe involuntarily, but you also probably breathe inefficiently — many adults use only about one-third of their lung capacity while breathing. This inefficiency can cause less oxygen to enter the lungs and thereby the bloodstream, in turn reducing your oxygen saturation. By breathing more slowly and deeply, you can improve all of these elements. Many adults breathe at a rate of around 15 respirations per minute; reducing this to rate to 10 per minute has been shown to benefit oxygen saturation. Make sure to breathe in through your nose and then pause for a few seconds after each breath. Stay as relaxed as possible while you are breathing. This is also known as the Buteyko method and it may help to increase your oxygen saturation. 2. **Seek respiratory training for maximum health benefits.** While occasionally making the conscious effort to breathe more slowly and deeply benefits your oxygen saturation, making more lasting adjustments to your breathing patterns will produce superior results. Both healthy individuals and those with breathing-related medical conditions can increase their oxygen saturation through respiratory training. Especially if you have a medical condition like COPD, talk to your health care team about including respiratory training. You can also seek out guided breathing training outside of a medical setting, in ways like joining a yoga class or being instructed in diaphragmatic breathing (either by a respiratory trainer or a vocal coach). 3. **Try coughing.** Controlled coughing can help you to clear the secretions that may be obstructing your airway and this will help to improve your oxygen saturation. This is a common instruction after surgery to ensure that your airways are clear. Try coughing a few times to see if this help you to breathe a little easier. 4. **Practice pursed-lips breathing.** Throughout your day, you can temporarily increase your oxygen saturation by doing a simple breathing exercise known as pursed-lips breathing. It is one of the easiest ways to more slowly and deeply draw oxygen into your lungs. Try the following steps: Breathe in through your nose for about two seconds. Pucker your lips (as if giving a kiss) and hold the breath in for a beat. Exhale through your pursed lips for about six seconds. Repeat as many times as desired. 5. **Use supplemental oxygen as prescribed.** If you have consistently low oxygen saturation levels due to a condition like COPD, your doctor may decide to place you on supplemental oxygen. This treatment involves the use of oxygen tanks, flexible tubing, and a cannula that feeds the oxygen into your nose. Patients who follow their prescribed oxygen regimens can often lead long and reasonably active lives. Don’t resist this treatment because you’re worried you’ll be “chained” to an oxygen tank and stuck in bed for life. Portable tanks can be very unobtrusive and allow you to go out and about with more energy and endurance. 6. **Learn to check your oxygen saturation and supplementation regularly.** People on supplemental oxygen will usually be taught how to monitor their own oxygen saturation by placing a pulse oximeter on their finger, earlobe, or nose. The process is quick, easy, non-invasive, and painless. As per your doctor’s recommendations, you can adjust your supplemental oxygen to compensate for lower saturation readings, or when you are engaging in activities like walking or light exercise. 7. **Take any prescribed medications as directed.** If you have low oxygen saturation due to COPD or a similar condition, you will likely take medications along with using supplemental oxygen. These may include controller medications that you will take on a regular schedule to improve your breathing and lung function, as well as rescue medications to use when you’re having more acute breathing difficulties. There are numerous types of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), short- and long-acting beta-2 agonists (SABA & LABA), and other medications that may be prescribed to you. Make sure you understand your doctor’s instructions for using them, and follow the plan diligently. These medications are also known as bronchodilators. Bronchodilators increase the diameter of your airways and this helps to increase oxygenation. 8. **Ask your doctor about using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine.** If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), then your airways might not stay open on their own. This may lead to decreased oxygen saturation. Ask your doctor about getting a PAP or BiPap machine to help keep your airways open and raise your oxygen saturation. The machine comes with a hose and a mask that you wear over your mouth and nose. 9. **Keep an eye out for emerging treatments.** While supplemental oxygen, medication, and respiratory training has been — and continues to be — the common and often effective treatment plan for low oxygen saturation, new options continue to be developed. One example is stem cell treatment, in which stem cells are harvested from your blood or bone marrow, isolated, and reintroduced to your lungs. New treatments can also carry new risks, of course, or turn out not to be as effective as initially hoped. Do some research on your own to find out what options are out there, and work with your medical team to determine the treatment plan that is right for you. 10. **Quit smoking** Breathing in smoke from tobacco products seriously damages your lungs and inhibits their ability to efficiently introduce oxygen to your bloodstream. If you smoke and have low oxygen saturation levels, quitting is the first and perhaps most vital step you can take to deal with the condition. Seek out whatever help you need to quit. If you are on supplemental oxygen, smoking is also a severe fire hazard. Concentrated oxygen is extremely flammable, and many people have been seriously or even fatally burned as a result of smoking while using supplemental oxygen. 11. **Breathe fresher air.** Oxygen levels in the surrounding atmosphere have an impact on your oxygen saturation; people who live in higher elevations typically have lower saturation levels, for example. The more oxygen and less “other stuff” — like dust, particulates, smoke, and so on — that circulates in the air you breathe, the better for your oxygen saturation. If you live in an area with fresh air, open a window or go outside. Keep plants in the house to boost oxygen levels. Clean and dust regularly. Invest in air cleaners if desired. Don’t expect major increases in oxygen saturation this way; use it in coordination with other changes. 12. **Lose excess weight if needed.** If you have a body mass index (BMI) that is above recommended levels, the excess weight you carry likely causes you to breathe with more difficulty and less efficiency. Lower BMI levels have been shown to correlate with higher oxygen saturation levels. Also, even if your oxygen saturation were to remain the same, losing weight makes it easier for you to utilize the oxygen in your body. Compare it to how an unloaded car uses fuel more efficiently. 13. **Exercise sensibly.** Aerobic exercise in itself does not necessarily increase oxygen saturation, but it will increase your ability to utilize the oxygen you do have more efficiently. Exercise that helps you lose excess weight is more likely to have a positive impact on actual oxygen saturation levels. If you have COPD or another condition that impacts your pulmonary or cardiovascular health, you will have restrictions to your exercise choices. Work with your medical team to develop a realistic and effective plan for you. 14. **Consume more water.** You might recall from chemistry class that a water molecule contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. So, every time you drink water or eat water-rich foods, you are introducing oxygen into your body. Gulping down water won’t magically fix your problem of low oxygen saturation, but regular hydration is a sensible part of any plan for someone with low levels. Plain water is the best choice for hydration, while fruits and vegetables are water-rich and healthy food choices. Try, for instance, steamed spinach, carrots, or green beans, or freshly-made fruit juices and smoothies. Drinking water can help to loosen up the mucus in your airways. This will help them to stay open and provide the maximum oxygen access. 15. **Try sitting up instead of lying down.** You can cause a slight but demonstrable increase in your oxygen saturation simply by choosing to sit instead of lie down. When you’re resting or relaxing, sitting up may make it easier for you to breathe in deeply and increase your oxygen saturation. Don’t use this as an excuse not to get up and be active, however, as improving your overall fitness will provide a greater, lasting benefit. You can also alter your position to improve your ability to breathe and increase oxygen saturation. This is a non-invasive way to improve your oxygen saturation. For example, if you are laying down, elevate the head of your bed to at least 30 degrees. If you elevate the head of your bed to 45 to 60 degrees, then this may improve your oxygen saturation even more. 16. **Accept the inevitable variations in oxygen saturation levels.** While an oxygen saturation level above 95% is usually considered good and below 90% is often considered problematic, every individual is different. Oxygen saturation levels will vary from person-to-person based on many factors — levels tend to peak around mid-childhood and slowly decline thereafter, for instance. Don’t get fixated on a specific number; instead, work with your doctor to find the range that suits your overall health best.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Increase-Oxygen-Saturation", "language": "en"}

How to Keep a Chinchilla Calm

Chinchillas are very adorable and interesting animals to keep as pets. However, unlike cats or dogs, taking care of chinchillas can be a lot of hard work if you are not properly prepared. They are delicate creatures that can be quite sensitive to a lot of things in their environment. Here are some things that can help you keep your chinchilla calm and happy, while fostering a good relationship with it. 1. **Have a cage that is large enough for your chinchilla.** Chinchillas are quite active and they like to hop, jump and run around at high speed. It is important that your chinchilla is not restricted from doing these things. Make sure that the cage has enough space for it to move about and play. It is also recommended to provide your chinchilla with a hideaway spot in its cage. Chinchillas can be shy and often like to have their own privacy away from any social contact or interaction. Have a small tube or tunnel in your chinchilla's cage so that it can have some alone time whenever it pleases. 2. **Maintain a safe room temperature for your chinchilla.** Chinchillas become uncomfortable in high temperatures and cannot survive if the temperature rises over 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to keep your chinchilla's cage in a room that is kept well below this temperature. Have some emergency marble tiles in your freezer for situations where your chinchilla gets overheated. Gently place your chinchilla on top of the marbles to cool it down. 3. **Feed your chinchilla with foods that are high in plant fibre.** Chinchillas classify as herbivores that produce Cecotropes, which are faecal pellets that they eat and digest before producing smaller and drier pellets. This special digestive process requires them to have a diet that is rich in fibre. It is therefore important that your chinchilla has good access to fresh and dust free grass, as well as an abundance of hay. You can also give small amounts of herbs and leafy greens to your chinchilla as treats throughout the day. 4. **Encourage foraging behaviour.** You can make things more interesting for your chinchilla by providing an outlet for natural foraging behaviour. Scatter food pellets around your chinchilla's cage and hide bits of hay or leaves in different spots for it to find. This is good for your chinchilla because it mimics behaviour that would typically be displayed in the wild. 5. **Introduce changes in the environment gradually.** Chinchillas are quite sensitive to things in their environment, particularly new situations or anything that they are unfamiliar with.This can include being around people that they are not used to or a change in their living space. Gradually making changes will reduce stress levels and also prevent your chinchilla from experiencing shock. If you need to replace some structures in your chinchilla's cage, be sure to do so one structure at a time with some time in between. This will allow your chinchilla to get used to its new surroundings. 6. **Observe your chinchilla's body language in different situations.** Your chinchilla's emotional state will typically show in its body language or posture. For example, if it is frightened, it will crouch down and lower its ears. It will also show signs of frustration when it does not receive enough physical or mental stimulation, such as gnawing at or shaking its cage bars. Make sure that you are able to react accordingly and make necessary adjustments when your chinchilla displays signs of stress or discomfort. 7. **Provide distracting stimuli.** Chinchillas are highly intelligent creatures and they need to constantly be active. Give your chinchilla some toys to chew on or place it in view of a television to prevent it from getting bored. Keeping your chinchilla busy and entertained will also allow it to develop in a healthy way. If left with nothing interesting to do, chinchillas may end up creating trouble or engaging in problematic behaviours such as fur biting. 8. **Play some relaxing music.** Music therapy plays a major role in relieving stress not just for chinchillas but a lot of animals, even humans. You can play music for your chinchilla to help it sleep, or even while it is playing outside of its cage to help it feel comfortable in its surroundings. There is music available online that is specifically made for helping chinchillas relax. Pet Tunes is a company that produces music and videos that are designed to help relief stress and anxiety in pets. 9. **Give your chinchilla enough playtime outside of its cage.** It is essential for chinchillas to get some time to play and explore their environment. Let your chinchilla out of its cage at least in the evening, or leave its cage door open once in a while so it can have the freedom to come and go as it wishes. Chinchillas like to chew and bite things as part of their exploration. Bear in mind that you should not have anything in the room that could be dangerous for your chinchilla. Your chinchilla will be the happiest when it is allowed to do things in its own time and play in an environment that is safe and familiar to it. 10. **Bond with your chinchilla.** The best time to bond with your chinchilla is during playtime outside of its cage. Use this time not only to allow your chinchilla to explore and play but also to build a good relationship with it. Give your chinchilla a little cuddle or let it take a ride on your shoulder. While your chinchilla is running around, let it take the initiative in approaching you. This builds trust and allows your chinchilla to be more comfortable around you. 11. **Try changing the location of its cage.** To keep things exciting for your chinchilla, you might want to try moving its cage to a different part of the room. This type of change is often met with enthusiasm as the chinchilla will still be able to recognise the same environment. As long as the change is non-threatening and small enough for the chinchilla to adjust with time, you will end up with a happy and satisfied pet.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Chinchilla-Calm", "language": "en"}

How to Rent Out a Basement

To many people, the basement is just a place to put boxes. To thrifty homeowners, it’s a whole other living space just waiting to be leased out. If you’re thinking about putting the basement of your home on the rental market, your first step will be to make it’s in good enough condition to accommodate your prospective tenant comfortably. You can then focus on creating an enticing listing and screening interested renters to find the perfect tenant. 1. **Find out whether it's legal to rent out a basement where you live.** Before you get too eager to list your basement, do some research to see whether the laws in your area permit residential basements to be leased as legal dwellings. Even if they do, there may be certain conditions in place that you'll need to abide by, such as a maximum number of residents or individual dwellings per lot. You may be required to comply with numerous codes related to health and safety, as well as possibly obtaining zoning and rentals tax permission, depending upon circumstances. Don't forget to check your homeowner's association bylaws, as well. In many cases, they have the final say over what is and isn't allowed in the neighborhood. You should be able to pull up your neighborhood homeowner's association bylaws online through your State Secretary's website. If you're having trouble finding them, ask a neighbor to supply you with a printed copy. If you attempt to rent out your basement in an area where housing laws don't permit it, you may be putting yourself at risk of receiving a hefty fine. 2. **Determine whether your basement is big enough to live in.** Not all basements are created equal—some are luxurious hideaways while others are little more than 4 walls and a concrete floor. Measure your basement from wall to wall to find its overall size. If it’s any smaller than about 300 square feet, it probably won’t make the most comfortable living space. In most places, residential basements must have ceilings that are at least 6.5–7 feet (2.0–2.1 m) in order to be considered legally inhabitable. A health or building inspector may require you to install and maintain proper exits and ventilation. 3. **Make sure you can offer all the necessary amenities.** In addition to a main living area, your basement will also need to be outfitted with a kitchenette and full bathroom, complete with a working toilet, shower, and sink. While not technically a necessity, most renters will also be looking for things like carpet, central heating and air, and cable hookups for TV and Internet access. Local regulations of rentals may also require installation (if not also inspection) of proper smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Renting a basement can be a good way to make a little extra money, but it can quickly become an expensive project if your space isn't up to code. In many cases, renovating an unfinished basement can cost $100,000 or more. 4. **Take care of any necessary repairs.** Inspect the basement thoroughly to look for anything that needs fixing or replacing. Drafty windows, loose stairs, and poor insulation are not uncommon, even in newer basements. These issues may be unattractive to prospective renters. If there are any problems with your basement that you’re unwilling or unable to fix at the moment, make a note of them and be sure to mention them in the listing description later on. Serious issues, such as water damage or faulty wiring, should be resolved before you go any further in the rental process. 5. **Deep-clean the entire basement.** Vacuum the carpet, dust all surrounding surfaces, and wipe down wooden fixtures with a coat of spray-on wood polish. Hit the windows with some glass cleaner and wipe them until they sparkle. Concrete floors should be swept or even mopped if it’s been a while since they’ve been cleaned. Use hydrogen peroxide, diluted chlorine bleach, or trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove stains from concrete floors. While you’re cleaning up, be sure to also find a new place for any items that you don’t want your renter to see, such as stored boxes or personal belongings. 6. **Have older basements fumigated if necessary.** Basements can harbor lots of unseen critters. If you have reason to believe that your basement is already home to a family of rodents or insects, it may be a good idea to pay to have it treated with pesticides. Contact a fumigation specialist in your area to learn more about the process and get advice for how to proceed. Keep an eye out for dead bugs, droppings, or other unusual debris that might indicate a possible infestation. It can take anywhere from 5-6 hours to an entire week for toxic fumigation gases to dissipate, so make sure you schedule your pest control services long before you actually list your basement for rent. If your basement is on the smaller side, you may be able to fumigate it yourself using a commercial chemical fogger. You can find these devices at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. 7. **Provide a detailed description of your basement room.** Include information like the square footage of the basement, the number of built-in rooms, and any included appliances or amenities. Potential renters will expect to see everything spelled out in plain writing. Being as descriptive as possible will also keep you from having to answer lots of questions once interested parties start contacting you. Your rental listing might say something like “Cozy 800 sq. ft. basement apartment with brand new carpet, kitchenette, and half bath w/ shower. Unit has its own ground-level door for private entry and exit. Main living area features a pleasant view of the woods.” Avoid overselling your space with exaggerated phrases like “Spacious, open layout” or “Luxurious wall-to-wall carpet” if these descriptions aren't accurate. If someone comes to view the room and doesn’t agree, they may decide to look elsewhere. 8. **Take pictures of the space from multiple angles.** Get a good wide-angle shot of the main living area, as well as each of the connected rooms and major appliances like heating and air conditioning units and plumbing fixtures. If your basement comes with any special features, such as a dehumidifier, gaming system, or baby grand piano, be sure to snap some close-ups of these, as well. Capturing clear, high-quality images will give renters a preview of exactly what they’ll be getting. It will also reflect well on you as the landlord, as it shows you have nothing to hide. If your basement room comes furnished, rearrange items as desired to “stage” your photos and give the space more visual appeal. There’s no single best number of pictures to put up along with your listing. Generally speaking, however, the more you post, the better. 9. **Set a fair rental price based on similar listings.** Browse listings for similarly-sized apartments online and see what the owner or realtor is asking. Use that figure to come up with a price that you think is fair given the amount of space and the level of luxury you have to offer. Depending on how large and well-appointed your basement is, this could be anywhere from $200-$1,200 per month. Basement apartments are typically priced lower than standalone lodgings, as they tend to be smaller and don’t offer as much in the way of privacy and independence. Make an effort to price your basement room competitively. It can be tempting to ask for more since it’s a part of your home, but try to keep the conditions of the local housing market in mind and be sensitive to the needs of your renter. 10. **Decide whether you want to include the cost of utilities in the rent.** Making your tenant partially responsible for paying for water, gas, and electricity can help subsidize your own living expenses. However, some renters may be put off by the additional cost. Ultimately, your decision may come down to the space you’re renting and how much it already has to offer. One compromise might be to charge a low, flat rate (say, $50-100) for utilities that will cover the better part of your tenant’s usage while also reducing the strain on your own wallet. 11. **Put your contact info at the bottom of the listing.** Decide on your preferred method of communication, then provide the phone number or email address where you can most easily be reached. You might even choose to display multiple forms of correspondence, as this will allow you to field and reply to the responses you get right away. Consider setting up a new email account specifically to handle your rental business if you don’t want to give out your personal address to strangers. 12. **Advertise your basement room on popular housing websites.** Once you’ve put the finishing touches on your rental listing, post it to a site like Zillow, HotPads, or Craigslist. Thousands of people use these resources every day to track down lodging leads, so you’re sure to get plenty of eyes on your listing. They’re also free, which means you won’t be forced to spend money to make money. Airbnb is another convenient option if you're more interested in short-term rentals. If you want your listing to reach as many eligible renters as possible, you could even take out ad space in the classifieds section of your local newspaper. Be aware that some well-known property rental sites, such as ForRent and Apartments.com, charge users a fee to post their listings. 13. **Screen interested parties carefully.** Once questions about your listing start coming in, reply promptly and use the follow-up call or email to learn a little bit about your prospective renter. Without prying, find out if they have a stable source of income, whether they're single or looking to live with a partner or roommate, and what kind of hours they keep. Your goal is to determine whether or not they’d be a desirable tenant. When it comes to finding a suitable lodger, you’re entitled to be as choosy as you want to be. After all, it’s your home, your property, and your rules. 14. **Conduct a formal background check.** Following your initial screening, dig a little deeper. Look up private investigation firms operating in your area and have them pull your renter's public records. Past evictions, criminal charges, and pending lawsuits should all be considered grounds for disqualification. Most investigation companies charge around $15-40 for a standard background check. It may also be a good idea to get in touch with the renter's employer directly to get a personal assessment of their character. 15. **Run a credit check.** Contact a credit reporting agency and request a report on your renter. Reading through their credit history will bring red flags like sizable debt or a history of missed payments to your attention. If everything is in order, you'll have a sense of security going forward. In order to request a credit report, you'll need to know the renter's full name, date of birth, social security number, and current address. Some forms may also ask for the names of their current employer and landlord. While a couple missed payments doesn't necessarily mean a person is untrustworthy, it's not recommended that you rent to anyone who has a history of serious financial problems like bankruptcy. 16. **Collect a security deposit.** Ask your renter for a one-time payment of a predetermined sum, which you'll hold onto as insurance for your property. Taking up a security deposit is a standard practice, and will prevent you from being left on the hook financially in the event that something is damaged or stolen. Read through the housing and real estate laws governing your state or territory to find out how much money you can legally demand for a deposit. Most of the time, it will be 1-2 months' rent. In some places, you may be able to ask for as much as you think is fair. In places that regulate security deposits, there may be detailed rules regarding your obligations for proper documentation and handling of any security deposit. You may accidentally forfeit your right to claim (or even hold) the deposit if you fail to follow the rules. 17. **Draw up a monthly lease agreement.** Outline the particulars of your arrangement in writing. Details like the date and amount of payment, the maximum number of occupants, and accident and damage liability should all be spelled out in clear, easily comprehensible language. If there are any other special terms you’ve worked out verbally with your tenant, don’t forget to include them as well. Search for templates online that you can modify to suit your exact needs and conditions. If you’d like a little help drafting a formal lease agreement, consult a real estate attorney for assistance. 18. **Lay down some house rules.** When it comes time for your new renter to move in, take a moment to articulate what is and isn’t permissible on your property. They’ll need to know, for instance, if there are any other parts of the house that are strictly off-limits, or whether they’re allowed to have a pet. Make sure they understand your requests so they’ll know what’s expected of them as a tenant. Some other points you may want to go over with your renter include your policies on smoking, parking, illegal activity, noise, keeping doors locked, and having dates or other guests over. Ideally, you should make non-negotiable guidelines part of your formal lease agreement to ensure that they’re enforceable.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Rent-Out-a-Basement", "language": "en"}

How to Win Sweepstakes

"Congratulations! You've just won ten million dollars!" Wouldn't that be nice to hear? How about, "Congratulations! You've just won ten pairs of socks!" Well, it doesn't quite have the same ring to it, but it's always nice to win. If you like getting something for nothing, maybe it's time you won sweepstakes. Of course, sweepstakes winners are chosen at random like a lottery, so there's no way to increase your chance of winning. Or is there? 1. **Follow blogs and websites that offer free sweepstakes listings.** There are tons of free sweepstakes being offered all the time—companies often use them as a way to raise awareness about their brands. However, searching them out individually can be really time-consuming, and it can sometimes be hard to tell which sweepstakes are trustworthy. To make the search easier, bookmark a few popular sweepstakes websites, and check back regularly to see what's new. Some of the most popular sites include Sweepstakes Advantage, Sweepstakes Fanatics, SweepstakesBible, Contest Girl, SweepstakesLovers and Sweeties' Sweepstakes. 2. **Subscribe to a sweeps newsletter to get listings in your inbox.** If you'd prefer to have sweepstakes listings sent directly to you, sign up for email newsletters from sweepstakes directories. They'll sort through any active sweepstakes, highlighting the best ones in their emails. It's a good idea to have these emails sent to the email address you use for entering sweepstakes, rather than your main email address. Some of the most popular contest newsletters include This 'n' That Sweepstakes Club, SweepSheet.com, SweepsU.com, and I Win Contests. Most of these sites offer a free version of their newsletter, but they typically will also offer a premium membership where you'll get exclusive access to certain listings. These usually cost around $30-$60 USD for a year-long membership. 3. **Follow sweepstakes pages and groups on social media.** Many companies use contests and sweepstakes to help boost their followers on social media. While you may sometimes come across promotions being offered by the brands you already follow, you'll be more likely to come across contests if you follow social media pages or join groups that aggregate sweepstakes. Similar to a website or a newsletter, these pages will post new sweepstakes, along with reminders to re-enter daily contests. Sometimes, these groups might provide their members with exclusive information about sweeps and other contests, so be sure to check the pages regularly. 4. **Use the radio and social media to find local contests.** If you can find a contest that's only eligible to people who live near you, be sure to enter it! Local and regional contests tend to get fewer entries than sweepstakes that are open nation-wide. Local radio stations frequently promote sweepstakes and contests, but you may also see promotions on local business pages on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You may also get flyers in the mail or see advertisements in the newspaper telling you about local sweepstakes. Check the rules before you enter regional contests—you often have to live in a specific area in order to qualify. 5. **Avoid sweepstakes that ask for your bank information and other scams.** Unfortunately, any time you're surfing online, you're at risk of coming across a scam. To be safe, stay away from any contests that ask you to pay to enter, or which ask for your credit card number or other personal information. Many sweeps will only require you to enter your name and email address, although some will ask for additional information like your home address. Read the fine print before entering your phone number into a sweepstake—you may be consenting to receive promotional phone calls. Don't enter sweepstakes that you see advertised on pop-up ads. These are typically scams designed to get your email address or other personal info. 6. **Create a dedicated email for entering sweepstakes.** When you're entering online contests, you always have to include an email with your entry, because that's typically how they'll contact you if you win. However, it's best not to use your main email address to sign up for sweeps, or you could be flooded with spam and promotional emails. In addition, you might miss important sweeps information or even emails about prizes if they're mixed into your regular inbox. Companies often use sweepstakes as a way to identify potential customers, so they may send you emails about their products or services after the contest is over. If you accidentally enter a contest that isn't legit, using an alternate email address could help protect your personal information. 7. **Set aside a little time each day for entering sweeps.** The only way you can win a sweepstake is to enter it. If you really want to have a chance at getting a prize, try to spend at least 30 minutes a day, 3 days a week on sweepstakes. However, if you want to be a really devoted sweeper, you'll have the best shot if you spend about 3-5 hours a week on your entries. Try entering sweeps on your phone or laptop when you're watching your favorite TV show, for instance. 8. **Enter as many different sweepstakes as you can.** Use your sweepstakes directories and newsletters to find as many contests as possible that you're eligible to enter. Since your odds of winning each one are relatively low, entering a wide variety of sweeps will give you the best chance of nabbing prizes. Avoid entering sweepstakes with low-value prizes that you don't really want, especially if it's an item that you don't think you'd be able to sell or re-gift. Typically, there are no rules that keep you from entering multiple sweepstakes at once—just rules about how often you can enter each contest. 9. **Focus on sweepstakes with multiple prizes when possible.** Some sweepstakes only have a single grand prize, but others will have additional prizes for runners-up. If a contest has multiple winners, your chances of being selected for one of those prizes will be doubled, tripled, or more! In some cases, a 2nd- or 3rd- place prize can be nearly as valuable as the grand prize. 10. **Submit as many entries as possible to each contest.** Some sweepstakes only allow you to enter once, but others will allow you to submit a new entry daily, weekly, or monthly. Check the rules to see how often you're allowed to enter, then be sure to visit the sweeps page to enter as often as possible. Be sure to check the rules to see if there are additional ways to enter, as well. For instance, you may be able to earn additional entries by sharing the contest on social media, visiting the sponsor's website, or leaving a comment on a blog post. 11. **Look for text-based, mail-in, or call-in contests to improve your odds.** These days, online sweepstakes are the most common, but you may still come across sweeps that require you to text or call a certain number, or even to mail in your entry. These types of contests will get fewer entries than online sweeps, so take advantage of them whenever you can. Remember, if you don't have unlimited texting, you may be charged for each text—that can add up if you're entering a lot of contests. 12. **Try to enter sweeps with shorter entry periods for a better chance.** If you can find a contest with a short run time, other people won't have as much time to enter. That may increase your odds of winning, especially if you come back and enter each day in that time period. Some sweepstakes run for months, with opportunities to enter every day. That means there's a lot of competition for the grand prize. It's fine to enter contests that will run longer, too! However, if you're only entering a few contests a day, you may have better chances by focusing on the short-term listings. 13. **Read the rules of each contest carefully.** You can get disqualified from winning if you don't follow the rules of the contest carefully, so always read the fine print. Check whether there's anything you need to include when you enter, or if there are any criteria you have to meet in order to be chosen. For instance, you may have to include a photo with your entry, or you may only be allowed to enter if you live in a certain area. For mail-in contests, you may need to submit an index card or use a certain size envelope. You may be disqualified from entering if you work in a certain job or industry. For example, you may not be allowed to enter sweepstakes if you work for the company sponsoring the contest. 14. **Get an autocomplete app to help you fill out entries faster.** When you're trying to fill out as many entries as possible, it can get tedious to type in your name, email address, and home address over and over. However, you can help make the process easier by using an app or browser extension that will fill in those fields for you automatically. For instance, the Chrome browser will automatically save your information, then will give you the option to auto-fill your entry form. You can also use a separate app like Roboform to fill out your entries for you quickly. Do not use auto-submit software to enter yourself into contests. They're typically banned, and you'll be disqualified for using them. 15. **Use spreadsheets to track contests you've entered.** It can sometimes be difficult to remember which contests you've already entered, or how many times you can return to submit new entries. Creating a spreadsheet to keep yourself organized will help keep you from going back to the same contests over and over—and when you're more efficient, that means you'll have more time to enter new sweeps. For instance, you might create a new folder for each month, then have separate sheets for daily and weekly contests. Put an X on each date (or week) after you enter so you'll remember which ones you've already filled out. You can also track one-time entries so you don't forget what you've already done.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Win-Sweepstakes", "language": "en"}

How to Forget the Past, Live in the Present and Not Think About the Future

Dwelling on the past or focusing on the future can make you lose sight of your present life. This can make your life quickly pass you by without enjoyment of the present. If you find yourself focusing too much on past events or trauma, or worrying about the future, there are some methods that can help you learn to live for today. 1. **Express your feelings about the past.** Whatever past event you focus on, you may need to express the feelings you have associated with the event, whether good or bad, before you can move on. There may be experiences in your past that were hurtful, but there also may be good memories as well. Getting out your pent up emotions, whether good or bad, can help you let go of the past and focus on the present. Talk to a friend, family member, or counselor about your feelings. Try writing down your feelings about the past. You can journal or write a letter to someone that hurt you (just don't send it!). Even if you're dwelling on good memories, it can cause you to lose connection with the present. You may find yourself romanticizing the past or longing for things to be the way they were, instead of focusing on how to improve your present life. 2. **Forgive and forget.** Focusing on who to blame for past hurts can spoil the present. Instead of dwelling on who has caused you pain, forgive them. Focus on present events and leave behind any blame or hurt you feel. If there is someone in your past that has hurt you, choose to forgive and forget. Festering in the pain doesn't harm the person who hurt you and it will cause you to stay in the past. If you have to, write the person a letter or talk to the person about how her past actions. You don't have to send the letter, but it will help you stop blaming her for the past and help you move toward the present and your happiness. 3. **Focus on happy things.** If expressing your feelings about the past has not helped, focus on happy things. You can't change the past or worry about the future, so don't dwell on it. Think about happy things happening right now. If you find this hard, create a touchstone for yourself. For example, create a happy place that you can think that connects with your current life, such as your favorite reading place in your backyard. If you find yourself thinking too much about your past or worrying about the future, imagine the happy times you have there, or even picture yourself in that comforting place. 4. **Block your memories.** If all attempts haven't worked, try blocking or pushing aside your memories. This can help you get over bad memories with enough time. Plus, pushing the bad memories far enough into the back of your mind will help them bother you less. Envision yourself pushing the worries behind a door and locking it. Giving yourself a mental image will help, especially if the memories or worries are strong. Studies show that suppression is a possible and learnable skill that can help you get away from memories or break from your past. The more you do it, the better at it you will get. Every time the bad memories come up, purposefully move them to the back of your mind. Train yourself to forget about the event and make a conscious effort to move your mind past it. 5. **Work through your anxiety about the future.** Whenever you're having anxiety about the future, remind yourself you can only change what is in the present and focus on it. Put together a list of things that you can focus on instead that are rooted in the present. Think about the book you are in the middle of, what it must feel like to be in Hawaii this time of year, or any other scenario to keep your mind off the future. Focus on what is possible instead of things you can't change. If you're having a hard time, make yourself physical reminders of the things in the present that you love and can focus on. Keep a copy of the book you're reading with you. Print a picture of the place you most love to spend your time and look at it when you need to ground yourself. It may take some practice to come up with ideas and instances that don't trigger your worries about future events. Just keep at it and you'll get it right eventually. 6. **Get help.** If these methods have not worked for you, you should seek help in order to get over your past, worry less about the future, and focus on the present. Look for a mental health professional in your area. You can ask for referrals from your doctor or ask your family and friends. You can see many different kinds of mental health professionals, such as counselors, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. They are trained in suggesting coping skills to help people become more productive or constructive within their daily lives by focusing on the present. Never be embarrassed to ask for help. Your mental health is very important and you should not feel strange about seeking help. It is very common and these professionals are there to help. 7. **Recognize that trauma is different from painful memories.** Trauma causes psychological and physiological effects similar to anxiety and intense fear in present time – as if the trauma never ended. Bad memories bring up painful emotions such as sadness and guilt, but they do not alter your perceptions the way that acute trauma does. Trauma must be dealt with in its own way and usually requires professional assistance. It can sometimes take years for the symptoms of trauma to surface. You may have nightmares, disturbing thoughts, depression, phobias, anxiety, or flashbacks because of a traumatic event. Healing from past trauma can be a slow process, and it may be difficult to stop thinking about it for a while. Just trust that if you keep working on it, things will get better. 8. **Seek help from a group or mental health professional.** Look for a counselor or program that specializes in trauma. You are in charge of your recovery, and how and when it will take place. However you decide to pursue treatment, your program should offer these essential things: Empowerment: Your recovery is an opportunity for you to take back control. While guidance is important, you must be in charge of your healing. If your counselor suggests something that feels wrong or you're just not ready to do, you don't have to do it. Validation: Your experience may have been minimized or dismissed over the years. Your group or counselor can validate what happened to you and how the trauma has shaped your life. Connection: Experiencing trauma can be extremely isolating. Talking with others and sharing your story with people who understand can help you start feeling connected again. 9. **Confide in someone you trust.** Talking about what happened to you is an important part of healing. Choose someone patient, kind, and someone who knows that what happened to you is serious. Someone who responds with things like, "Just don't think about it anymore," "Forgive and forget," or "That's not so bad," is not an appropriate person to talk to. You may need to talk about your trauma over and over – make sure the person you are talking to understands that this is important. Getting it off your chest one time is good, but you will need to keep re-visiting and talking about it. If there's no one in your life you feel close to or trust, reach out to someone in your life that you really like. Ask them to do something fun and, if that feels good, invite them to do something else in the future. Spending time with this person can help you begin to form a close relationship. Be aware that talking about trauma with someone can cause them vicarious trauma, in which they experience symptoms of trauma from listening to your story of trauma. Try not to be offended if your friend can not listen to your story everyday. Family and friends are a great place to start, but if you are needing more support, a trauma counselor is trained to avoid vicarious trauma. 10. **Make a list of ways you can take care of yourself.** It can be hard to think of ways to comfort yourself when you're having a difficult time. Write a list of things that make you feel better and post it in a prominent place so you can reference it easily. Some possibilities include: Do something creative, like painting, drawing, woodworking, needlepoint, or other crafts. Get some exercise. It doesn't have to be intense – you could just go for a walk around the neighborhood. Or try running, swimming, playing a sport, dancing, hiking, or anything else that gets your body moving. Play with children in your family or a pet. This can have a very calming effect, which can make you feel better. Sing quietly or sing at the top of your lungs. Fill your lungs with fresh air and belt out your favorite tunes. Wear something that makes you feel good. Put on your favorite shirt or some jewelry that you enjoy wearing. 11. **Become aware of your surroundings.** Stop rushing through life and letting your mind get stuck in the past. Instead, take in everything around you, whether it is feats of nature or man-made creations. Make a conscious effort to pay attention to each aspect of your present life. For example, take a walk and look at everything around you. If you are outside, look at the trees, the ground, and all the scenery. Feel the air on your skin. If you are inside, pay attention to the color of the walls, what sounds you hear from others in your area, or how the floor feels under your feet. This will help you stay focused on the present and be mindful of your current surroundings. 12. **Slow down.** People often speed through life as they rush from one moment to another. Make yourself slow down and enjoy everything you do, even if it's boring. For example, pay attention to your actions when you get a snack. Grab a handful of grapes and consciously look at them. Notice their shape and size. Eat one and pay attention to the flavors. Enjoy the burst of sweetness on your tongue and the sustenance the fruit is giving you. It's okay not to be thrilled with everything that happens to you every day. If you are doing a project at work that you don't like or have an obligation you don't enjoy, that's okay. Instead of rushing past it, think about what you are doing each day and experience it. 13. **Change your routine.** One way you can get stuck in the past without knowing it is to get stuck in a routine. Maybe you do the same thing the same way every day or at the same time every week. While routine can be comforting, it can make you feel stuck and forget about the present all together. Instead, change up your routine. Walk a different way to the bus stop or drive a different way to work. Even making subtle changes can help you break out. Change what you eat every day. Incorporate newly learned words into your vocabulary every day. Anything that can make you take notice of what you do on a daily basis will help you live in the now instead of the past or future. If you don't want to or can't change your routine, become more mindful of your actions during your routine. Take note of how the oatmeal you eat every morning tastes or what the trees look like out the window on the way to work. 14. **Pay attention to calm moments.** There are points in almost every day where you might have to wait for something. You could be in line at the supermarket or waiting at a red light in your car. During these moments, resist the urge to look at your phone and instead notice things around you. Become mindful of your surroundings instead of wasting time grumbling about how you wish the line was shorter or the light would change. These are great moments to take in simple, small things in your present life. Avoid using your phone to pass the time. Instead, look around you at other people in line or in cars around you. Smile at someone or strike up a conversation with the person behind you in line. Keep trying things until you find the best way for you to stay in the present moment. 15. **Leave yourself a reminder.** In order to keep thinking about being present, especially when you first start, you may need a reminder. Tie a string around your wrist, paint one nail a bright pink color, or wear your watch upside down. Let the object serve as a reminder. Every time you see the reminder object, take a few seconds to focus on the sounds, smells, and sights around you. Take stock of how you feel and what you are doing. This will help you stay focused on your current situation and not dwell on the past or future. 16. **Focus on the task at hand.** Instead of mindlessly doing something, take the time to do something well. Let yourself be drawn into a writing assignment for school, a project at work, or your chores around the house. Engross yourself to the point where the thoughts of the past and the future fall away. This is easier if you don't multi-task. Multi-tasking can make you lose track of what you are doing and start thinking about other things, such as finishing the tasks or moving on to a different one. Try doing things slower. This will help you focus your attention on your actions in the present. 17. **Meditate** One of the best ways to focus on the now is to meditate. The goal of mediation is to push everything else aside, including fears about the past and future, and focus on the exact moment you are meditating. Start by taking deep breaths in and out, focusing on the action. Push everything else out of you head and focus on the sound of your breathing. Eventually, everything else will fade away. Complete mediation takes time and practice. Don't give up if you don't experience that "zen" moment immediately, or even after a few months. Keep practicing and you will eventually begin to reap the (major) benefits of meditation.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Forget-the-Past,-Live-in-the-Present-and-Not-Think-About-the-Future", "language": "en"}

How to File Motion to Quash

A motion to quash is used when you want the judge in your case to say that something filed by the other side against you – sometimes evidence, but more typically a subpoena – is invalid. If the judge grants your motion, whatever was quashed can no longer be used against you in your case. A motion to quash is a fairly simple motion that in most cases you can draft and file by yourself without consulting an attorney. 1. **Determine the reason for your motion.** Judges only do things for legal reasons. If you want the judge to quash something, you must find a valid legal reason why it would be unfair to use that thing against you, or make that request of you. Get help from an attorney or at a legal self-help center if you're confused about what legal reason you should use. For example, suppose the other side has sent you a subpoena ordering you to hand over every email you've ever written in the past 10 years. You could respond by filing a motion to quash on the grounds that the request is unreasonable and oppressive. You can also file a motion to quash service of process. If the proof of service document filed with the court is inaccurate, your motion to quash would argue that you were improperly served. If evidence is confidential, or was tampered with, you can file a motion to quash arguing that the judge should not allow that evidence to be admitted or used against you. In some courts this motion may be called a "motion to suppress" or a "motion to strike." 2. **Gather related legal documents.** Before you can draft your motion, you'll need copies of whatever it is you want the judge to quash. You'll also want copies of any other court documents you've been served with, as you might need to reference them. Court documents have a caption at the top of the first page that identifies the parties to the case, the case number, and the court that is hearing the case. You'll need all of this information for your motion. 3. **Search for forms.** Many courts and legal aid societies have preprinted forms that you can fill out and use for your motion. These forms have been approved by the courts, comply with the formatting rules, and are available to you free of charge. Most courts have a generic motion form that you can use to draft a motion to quash if a more specific form isn't available. If you can't find the appropriate form, go to the court clerk's office and ask for sample motions from other court cases. You can use them as a guide. You may also find motion forms in form books, or online through commercial legal services. If you use one of these forms, make sure it has been approved for use in your state's courts. 4. **Write the body of your motion.** A motion to quash typically is only two or three paragraph long. Start with a paragraph that briefly summarizes the basic facts of the case and identifies the subject of your motion. Then tell the judge exactly what you want them to do and why. A motion is persuasive writing. You want to convince the judge to agree with you and grant your motion. However, don't go overboard – appeals to emotion won't work. Stick to the facts and lay out your legal reasoning. Keep your writing clear and concise. If you reference any documents in your motion, such as a subpoena, make a copy of that document and attach it to the motion. Make a note after the name of the document to indicate that it is attached. For example, if you're attaching the subpoena you want the judge to quash, you would label it "Exhibit A" and put that in parentheses after you mention it in your motion. Proofread your motion carefully after you draft it. Typos and grammatical errors won't win you any favors with the judge. Read your motion out loud to make sure the language flows well and is easy to read. 5. **Sign your motion.** Once you're satisfied with your motion, print it out and sign it using a blue or black ink pen. In some courts, you have to sign your motion in the presence of a notary public if you're not an attorney. When you sign your motion, you are affirming under the penalty of perjury that everything in your motion is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge. If you sign in the presence of a notary, bring a government-issued photo ID along with you so the notary can verify your identity. 6. **Prepare your Notice of Motion.** The notice tells the other side when the court will hear your motion. This is a standard form available in most courts. You won't be able to fill it out completely until after you've filed your motion and know the date of the hearing. Complete as much of the notice as you can. Once you know the date of the hearing, you can hand write it in ink on the form. Don't sign the notice form until after you've entered the date of the hearing. 7. **Find out if your court uses electronic filing.** Federal courts, as well as many state courts, use electronic filing rather than paper filing. You can get this information by calling the office of the clerk of court, or by visiting the court's website. Typically, you'll have to create an account on the court's e-filing system before you can file your motion. These systems are free to use. If you don't have regular access to a computer, or have a disability that prevents you from e-filing, you may qualify for an exemption. 8. **Make copies of your motion.** Whether you e-file or take your motion to the courthouse in person, you'll need one copy for your own records and one copy for any other parties to the case. While you typically can get copies made in the clerk's office, they'll charge you a fee per page for doing so. If you attached any exhibits, such as a subpoena, copy those as well. If you have more than one exhibit, attach them in the same order as they were with the original motion. If you're filing your motion in person, take your original motion and all copies with you. 9. **Take your motion to the clerk's office.** To file your motion in person, go to the office of the clerk of the court where your case is being heard. If you've never been there before, look on your court documents to find out where it's located, or check the court's website. The clerk will stamp your original and copies. They'll keep the original for the court files and give the copies back to you. 10. **Select a date for your motion to be heard.** The way a hearing date is chosen depends on the court and the individual judge's preference. In some courts, the clerk will simply assign a date, but typically, you have a choice. Some judges have a "motion day" in which they hear all motions ready to be heard. In that situation, you typically will be assigned the first available motion day after time for service and response by the other side. The time of your hearing usually is first thing in the morning. If the judge has morning and afternoon sessions, you may be able to choose which session – the time will still be the start of the session. This doesn't necessarily mean the judge will hear your motion at that exact time. 11. **Have your motion served on the other parties to the case.** Once your motion is filed, you have to deliver it to the other side using a legal service of process method. This proves to the court that the other side had notice of your motion and a chance to respond to it. The easiest way to serve a motion is to use certified mail with returned receipt requested. When you get the green card in the mail indicating that your motion was received, you use that to complete the proof of service document for the court. If the other side in your case is represented by an attorney, you must serve the attorney with the motion, not the other individual. 12. **Gather documents and evidence to support your motion.** At your hearing, you can show the judge any documents or other items that support your argument that a subpoena or other piece of evidence should be quashed. You can also have witnesses testify on your behalf. If you plan on having witnesses, you may need to let the court know in advance. A subpoena can be issued on your behalf if necessary, which compels the witness to be in court for your hearing. Needing a subpoena doesn't mean the witness is unwilling to testify on your behalf. People often need a subpoena to justify their absence from work or school, or to get out of another commitment. 13. **Arrive at least 30 minutes early for your hearing.** Showing up early on the day of your hearing allows you time to go through courthouse security and find the right courtroom. Once you enter the courthouse, check the directory or go to the clerk's office to find out where your hearing will take place. Dress respectfully, as though you were going to a job interview or a church service. If you've brought papers with you, organize them neatly. Most courtrooms don't allow cell phones or other electronic devices. If you're concerned about items you normally carry with you, check with the clerk's office to find out what the court prohibits. 14. **Wait in the gallery for the judge to call your motion.** Judges typically hear motions for many cases on the same day. Take a seat on one of the benches in the gallery until your case is called. Then you may move up to the front of the courtroom. The judge may ask if you are ready to proceed. Answer "I'm ready, your honor." The judge will then motion you to come forward. Remain standing until the judge or a court officer tells you that you may sit. 15. **Present your case to the judge.** Since it's your motion, you typically get to speak first. Start with a brief outline of the facts of your case, as you presented in your motion. Then explain to the judge what you want them to do and why. Speak calmly in a clear, loud voice. Stick to the facts and avoid emotional pleas, just as you did in your motion. If the judge asks you a question, pause and answer the question before you continue your argument. If you have evidence to present or witnesses to call, mention this to the judge. The judge will tell you how to proceed. 16. **Listen to any response from the other side.** If the other side in your case showed up for the hearing, they will also have a chance to talk to the judge. They will explain why they think the judge shouldn't grant your motion. While it's possible the other side won't show up, this is rare with motions to quash subpoenas. If the other side didn't care about the information, they wouldn't have gotten a subpoena in the first place. Be respectful while the other side is presenting their case. Don't interrupt or yell out at them. If they say something that you don't believe is allowed under court rules, say "objection" and wait for the judge to acknowledge you. Then you can explain to the judge why you think that statement isn't allowed. 17. **Rebut the other side's arguments.** After the other side has finished, most judges will give you the last word. You can use this time to restate your original arguments, or you can respond to particular statements made by the other side. While you're given the opportunity to speak, you don't have to speak if you have nothing more to add. Simply tell the judge that you "rest." 18. **Receive the judge's decision.** After hearing from both sides, the judge will decide whether to grant or deny your motion. It may take a few days before a written order is available from the clerk's office. It's a good idea to draft an order granting your motion. Most courts have forms for this person. Then if the judge grants your motion, all they have to do is sign the prepared order. If you disagree with the judge's decision, you have to wait until after a final decision is made in the case. If the case as a whole isn't decided in your favor, you can appeal. At that time, you can bring up the motion as a factor that unduly prejudiced you in the case.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/File-Motion-to-Quash", "language": "en"}

How to Learn a Piano Piece Quickly

Learning to play a new piece of music on the piano can be difficult. Whether you're struggling with a piece your teacher set you, or are teaching yourself a piece you've always wanted to learn, this guide should help reduce the hours of frustrating practice which seem to get you nowhere. 1. **Find the piece you are working on.** Listen to the dynamics; this helps with mostly classical pieces. 2. **Split the piece up.** Setting yourself smaller goals within the piece of music will make it more manageable and less frustrating. Moreover, by splitting it into parts, you can listen to the dynamics with greater ease and try to follow along as you listen. This helps you to tell the difference between how you're playing and how the artist is playing the piece. The extent of parts you split the piece up into will depend on the length of the music and how difficult it is; use your judgement to decide. 3. **Practice each hand individually.** Learn the right hand part first, then the left. Don't try to play them together until you can play them both individually, fluently. 4. **If it is a popular piece or song that you know, try to play along to the lyrics/music in your head when practicing your right hand.** That way you'll know when you go wrong and you'll be able to memorize it easier. 5. **Add to the piece bit by bit.** Rather than trying to play all the way through, play one line a few times, then add the next line, then the next. 6. **Slow it down.** Don't try to play it at full speed until you can play it slowly without making mistakes. 7. **Take your time.** You'll end up feeling frustrated if you try to do it all at once. Take regular breaks and play other pieces which you can play while you're learning a difficult piece. 8. **Identify any problem sections and break them down further.** If you need to spend 10 minutes on getting 2 chords right, then spend 10 minutes on it. It will be worth it in the long run and ignoring a problem part can cause frustration later on when it is the only part you cannot play. 9. **Play it through once you think you've got the hang of it.** This will allow you to identify any places you are still going wrong. Remember to keep coming back to the piece now you can play it, so you don't forget it. 10. **Don't leave it wrong.** If you stop practicing after playing it wrongly, you will remember it incorrectly. By making sure you end on a section you can play, the correct version will stick in your mind, making it easier to play next time.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-a-Piano-Piece-Quickly", "language": "en"}

How to Tame a Bird

Birds are very clever animals and make great pets. Fortunately, taming a bird is usually not a difficult task. It does, however, require plenty of time and patience. By taming your bird, you will not only develop a closer bond with him, but you will also help him feel more comfortable and secure in his environment. 1. **Give your bird time to acclimate to your home.** Your bird will probably need about two weeks to adjust to his new environment before you can begin taming him. Some birds will take longer, and some will need less time to acclimate. Place your bird’s cage in a busy room. Intuitively, a quiet room may seem ideal. However, housing your bird in a busy room will allow him to acclimate to, and become more comfortable with, human interaction and activity. Do not place your bird’s cage in the kitchen. Fumes released from nonstick appliances are toxic and potentially fatal to birds. You will know when your bird feels secure in his new environment when he does not flutter his wings when you approach him. If he sits frozen on his perch, he is not yet comfortable with you or his new environment. 2. **Talk to him in a soothing voice.** An important part of gaining your bird’s trust is making him feel comfortable and safe when you are around. You can do this by talking to him in a soothing voice. Of course, what you talk about is not important—he just needs to know that you are a calm and reassuring presence in his environment. Talk to him throughout the day, and especially when you change out his food and water. 3. **Use slow and gentle movements when you approach your bird.** Birds are naturally skittish animals. Therefore, any sudden movements can frighten your bird. Slow and gentle movements will reassure your bird that you are not a threat. When you approach your bird, you should be slightly above his eye level. If you are too high above his eye level, you may scare him. Being too far below his eye level would make you appear submissive to him. It may be helpful to use a soothing voice as you approach him to make him feel even more at ease with your presence. 4. **Place your hand near his cage.** Hand taming is a common way of taming birds. However, due to his skittish nature, your bird may be very wary of your hand. Moreover, birds who come from pet stores may associate hands with grabbing and chasing, making them even more wary of human handling. Place your hand where he can easily see it. To reduce his anxiety, talk to him in a soothing voice while you hold your hand still. Hold your hand near his cage for 10 to 15 minutes (or as long as you can hold your hand up), two to three times a day, for four to seven days. You may want to place your hand gently on the outside of his cage. Getting your bird to be comfortable with your hand will take time and patience. 5. **Place your hand inside his cage.** When your bird no longer seems flustered by your hand’s presence outside of his cage, acclimate him to your hand when it is inside of his cage. It is very important that you place your hand in his cage slowly and without sudden movements. You should also avoid making eye contact with your bird when you put your hand inside his cage—direct eye contact may appear threatening to him. At this stage, do not attempt to touch your bird when you have your hand in his cage. Practically speaking, you will need to place your hand inside your bird’s cage each morning when you change his food and water. By making a routine out of slowly reaching into his cage each morning, your bird should become increasingly more comfortable with your hand. It may take your bird anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to feel comfortable with your hand inside his cage. Continue talking to your bird in a soothing tone when your hand is inside his cage. 6. **Entice your bird with a treat.** If your bird is still not comfortable with your hand inside his cage, you may need to move things along by holding a treat in your hand. Millet spray is a very popular treat for birds. Dark and leafy greens, such as spinach, are another good treat to use. Whichever treat you use, make sure that it is one your bird is already familiar with and enjoys eating. Hold the treat in your hand and hold your hand still. Depending on how skittish your bird is, it may take several tries before he feels comfortable enough to get close to your hand and eat the treat. Hold a treat in your hand three to five times each day, and each time you change your bird’s food and water. Eventually, your bird will begin to anticipate the daily treat. Slowly move your hand closer and closer to your bird when holding the treat. With the help of the daily treats, your bird will become comfortable with your hand inside his cage. 7. **Position your hand like a perch.** With your hand in your bird’s cage, create a perch with your hand by holding your index finger out and folding your other fingers in towards your palm. In a slow and non-threatening manner, move your hand towards your bird and position your index finger below his breast line, which is just above his feet. If you are afraid of getting bitten, you could cover your hand with a small towel or wear gloves. However, covering your hand will defeat the purpose of getting your bird comfortable with your hand. In addition, your bird may be scared of the gloves or towel. 8. **Encourage your bird to step onto your finger.** With your finger below your bird’s breast line, gently push up on his body to encourage him to step on to your finger. Do not be surprised if your bird jumps away and flies to another part of his cage. If he does this, do not chase him around his cage— remove your hand and try again later, or simply leave your hand in his cage until he calms down and is ready to approach your hand again. If your birds needs a little extra encouragement, hold a treat in your other hand. Hold it far enough away that he would have to jump onto your finger to reach it. You can try this if the cage door is wide enough for both of your hands to fit through. If you would like, you can give your bird a verbal command (“Step up” or “Up”) when you push up on his body. Say the command each time you want him to step up onto your finger. Hold your hand still when your bird steps onto your finger. 9. **Reward your bird.** Give your bird a treat each time he steps onto your finger, even if only for a brief moment. Be aware that he may jump on and off your finger, or only feel comfortable placing one foot on your finger. Reward him with any progress he makes with stepping onto your finger. Keep your practice sessions short: 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a day. Along with an edible treat, you can also give your bird verbal praise when he steps up onto your finger. 10. **Prepare a bird-proof room.** Teaching your bird to step onto your finger when he outside his cage is an important part of taming him. A bird-proof room is one in which your bird will feel safe and secure. To prepare the room, close the windows and blinds. Also, clear the room of pets and other hazards, such as blowing fans. Ideally, the room should have a door that you can lock so others cannot come in during your training sessions. Make sure the room is lit, tidy and clean. A bathroom is a common choice for a bird-proof room. 11. **Rearrange your bird’s cage, if necessary.** Your bird’s cage is his comfort zone. Taking him out of his comfort zone may be a frightening experience for him—you do not want to make the experience more frightening by having to navigate through various perches and toys. Take the time to clear the exit path of any obstacles that could hamper your ability to take your bird out of his cage. 12. **Remove your bird from his cage.** With your bird perched on your finger in his cage, slowly move your hand backward to bring your bird out. Do not be surprised if he flies off your finger as you try to take him out—he may not be ready to leave the safety of his cage. If he does this, do not chase him around his cage. If the cage door is large enough, reach in with your other hand and cup that hand behind your bird. Your other hand would serve as a shield to keep your bird from jumping off your finger, but would not actually be touching him. Do not force him out of his cage. Remember to be patient with him. It may take several days’ worth of training sessions before he is comfortable with being moved outside his cage. 13. **Give your bird time to acclimate to being outside his cage.** Your bird may immediately want to jump onto the outside of his cage. Once again, do not chase him with your finger if he does this. Patiently wait until he has settled down before having him step onto your finger again. If you have not had your bird’s wings trimmed or clipped, he may fly away from you as you get him out of his cage. Slowly and gently approach him to retrieve him, making sure to talk to him in a calm and reassuring voice. Reward your bird with a treat when he stays perched on your finger. Keep your daily practice sessions short (10 to 15 minutes). 14. **Have your bird step up on your finger in the bird-proof room.** When your bird is comfortable with being outside his cage, walk to the bird-proof room with your back turned to his cage. When in the room, sit on the floor or on a bed. If he hops off your finger, have him step back onto it again. To challenge your bird, use both hands as perches. With your bird perched on the index finger of one hand, use the index finger of your other hand to gently press below your bird’s breast line and get him to step up. Alternating between hands, move your finger perches higher and higher to mimic the climbing of a ladder. Reward your bird with a treat each time that he steps onto your finger. Practice with your bird in the bird-proof room for 15 to 20 minutes, one to times a day. 15. **Place your bird back in his cage.** After each training session outside the cage, slowly walk him back to his cage and place him back inside. Although he may want to fly off your hand as soon as he's back inside the cage, you should try to place him back on one of his perches. To do this, position your finger such that the perch is in front of your bird and higher than your hand. When he steps onto the perch, give the verbal command to “step down.” Although he is stepping up onto the perch, this action is still considered to be stepping down from your finger. Close the cage door when your bird is comfortably situated in his cage.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Tame-a-Bird", "language": "en"}

What Are the Midterm Elections and Why Are They So Important?

If you’re new to voting, you may be wondering what the midterms are and why everyone on the news keeps talking about them. While presidential elections tend to snag the major headlines, midterms are arguably more important. In this article, we’ll explain why that is. We’ll also break down how you can register to vote and what you can do to ensure your voice is heard and your vote is counted! 1. **The midterms are general elections that take place every 4 years.** There are two major elections every 4 years—the presidential election, and the midterms. The midterms get a lot less attention than the presidential cycle, but they’re critically important in their own right. This is when a majority of many federal, state, and local officials are elected. Midterms typically see 10-15% fewer voters than presidential elections, but 2018’s midterms had the highest turnout in history! 2022 is likely to be an even bigger deal. 2. **The midterms always take place 2 years into each presidential term.** This is where the name “midterms” comes from—it’s in the middle of the president’s term. The year 2020 was the presidential election, so 2022 is the midterms! The next midterms election will be 2026. The official midterms election date for 2022 is November 8th, although most states allow citizens to vote earlier if they’d like. 3. **Every member of the House of Representatives** The House of Representatives is one half of Congress, which is the legislative branch of the US government that’s responsible for making laws. The House is designed to represent the US population, and every member of the House is up for election every 2 years. Every state has a different number of representatives based on how many people live there, although the number of representatives is fixed at 435. 4. **Roughly 1/3 of the Senate** The Senate is the other half of Congress, and it’s also responsible for making laws. However, senators serve 6-year terms, so only some senators are up for election during the midterm elections. The Senate is designed to represent the states, so there are 100 senators—2 for each state. Senators are typically viewed as more powerful than the representatives, although they’re both extremely important. Together, both branches work to craft our country’s laws! 34 senators are up for reelection in 2022. In 2024 and 2026, the remaining 66 will be up for election. 5. **State officials** Midterms are also when most states hold state-wide elections. Depending on where you live, you’re probably going to elect a slew of state politicians on the midterm ballot. This might include your governor, treasurer, attorney general, state senator, or state supreme court. The specific offices you’ll vote for are going to differ from state to state, county to county, and city to city. Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey and Virginia never hold state-wide elections on odd-numbered years, so you’ll vote for state offices in 2023 in these states. 6. **Local politicians and ballot initiatives** In most states, the midterm election is also an opportunity for citizens to elect local/municipal politicians, like mayors, state house representatives, local judges, or school board members. Depending on your state’s process, you may also vote on specific ballot measures, recalls, or polls regarding future laws. Every state and county has a different process for things like school board elections and ballot measures, so look up your local ballot ahead of time to research what’s going to be on it. Ballot measures are laws, issues, or questions that apply to local jurisdictions. For example, there may be a ballot measure regarding a new casino in the area, or a change to local hunting laws. 7. **The vast majority of politicians are elected during midterms.** Everybody gets excited about the presidential election every 4 years, but you might argue the midterms are more impactful to your daily life. There are way more local and state politicians representing you than there are federal politicians, and the vast majority of laws where you live fall under the purview of lawmakers at the state or local level. A president might pass a handful of major laws, but there are dozens upon dozens of state and local laws that are passed every year that may impact you. 8. **Voting in the midterms are how you make your voice heard.** Voting is how you get a true democracy. Your congresspeople and local politicians craft the laws and ordinances that govern what’s legal in your state and area, so it’s extremely important that your interests are represented! If you don’t vote, you’re passing up on your opportunity to participate in the most important process in our society. If there are any issues you really care about, whether it’s women’s rights, civil rights, tax policy, or any other policy, voting in the midterms is one of the best ways to fight for your beliefs. Similarly, good roads, clean air, clean water, and safe food are all things we have because of government programs, so your vote makes a big difference. 9. **The midterms are when you elect the people who control elections.** The right to vote is essential, and the midterms are when you vote for the state-level officials who ultimately protect this right. Judges, governors, state governments, and city staff are the gatekeepers of the local vote, so it’s important to ensure that you continue to elect honest representatives who will protect our democratic process. If you aren’t engaged in local politics, there’s no better time to start than now! Read your local paper, follow your regional newspapers, and look online to learn more. If anyone does try to stop you from voting, call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-687-8683. Check out Vote.org’s guide on your rights as a voter to learn more. 10. **Register to vote in your state at least 30 days before the election.** All states except North Dakota require voter registration. While the process is different in every state, you typically go online and fill out a registration application. You can also mail in an application in most states or register to vote in person at a polling office or government building. You can look up your state’s registration rules by visiting Vote.gov’s online registration portal. Typically, anybody can register to vote so long as you’re a US citizen, you meet your state’s residency requirements, and you’re 18 years of age or older. There are no national deadlines for registration—every state has different requirements, so don’t wait to sign up! As a form of activism, you can help other people register to vote, which may increase voter turnout. 11. **Vote in person at your local polling place on election day.** Search Vote.org’s poll place locator to find the most convenient location for you. On the day of the election, bring your registration card and an ID with you to the polling place, if the state requires it. Head into the polling booth and cast your vote! Many states do not require ID to vote, although some do. What qualifies as valid ID differs from state to state, although every state accepts driver’s licenses and state IDs. If you don’t bring the proper form of ID, request a provisional ballot. Your vote will still count if you’re registered, but a poll worker will cross reference the signature on your ballot with the signature on file at the DMV. 12. **Mail in your ballot if you live in a state with absentee voting.** If you can’t make it to a polling place on election day, request a mail-in ballot (also known as an absentee ballot). Look online or submit a request using Vote.org’s absentee ballot form to file for a mail-in ballot. Wait for it to arrive in the mail, fill out your ballot, and send it back to vote. Some states require voters to provide a reason why they can’t make it to a polling place on election day. Most states have a deadline for requesting mail-in ballots, so do this early as you possibly can to ensure you have time to send the ballot back! The vast majority of counties and states allow for mail-in/absentee voting, but there are a few counties that may not have a mail-in program. Look your county and state laws up ahead of time. 13. **Go in for early voting if your state allows it.** Most states have an early voting period where you can go into a polling place and vote ahead of time. This is ideal if you know you’re going to be busy on election day but you don’t want to wait for a mail-in ballot. Check Vote.org’s early voting calendar to find out where to vote. Some states do not allow for early voting, so don’t assume you’ll be able to vote early without looking it up!

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/What-Are-Midterm-Elections", "language": "en"}

How to Choose the Right Number of Slides for a Powerpoint Presentation

Whether you're a newbie at PowerPoint or a presentation professional, there's always one crucial question when developing your slideshow: how many slides should you include? Thinking about the amount of time you have and the rate at which you speak are reliable ways to calculate the right number of slides. Understanding good design choices and learning to accept your presentation as a unique product will free you from the need to feel trapped by hard and fast rules regarding the "right" number of slides. 1. **Provide the right amount of information.** PowerPoint presentations are useful to provide an overview and a general description of a given topic. Your presentation should not be encyclopedic. Don’t go overboard including every little detail, citation, or factoid which may inform the conversation on the issue you’re presenting. Too much information will burn your audience out and you’ll be left with a bunch of people more interested in lunch than in what you have to say. Keep the presentation about you, not the slideshow. The slides are there to support what you have to say. They should be just one part of your presentation, not the whole thing. 2. **Break complex slides down into several simple slides.** PowerPoint presentations are at their most effective and powerful when they adopt a clean, minimalistic style. For instance, if you have one slide whose heading is “Habitats,” with three bullet points beneath reading “Forest,” “Desert,” and “Ocean” with a description of each habitat following, you would do well to instead allocate three separate slides to the three different habitats, and include a summary and image of each on the appropriate slide. 3. **Include audiovisual support only as needed.** Your PowerPoint slideshow should always be designed to reinforce your verbal explanations with visual images. Sometimes it works to put words on a screen, but generally, your text should be limited. Do you need the graphics as a starting point from which you will explain results, trends, predictions, or specific outcomes? Are you using visuals merely to keep your audience engaged, to provide humor, and/or to accommodate diverse learning styles? These and other relevant questions should guide your decision-making process when settling on the right number of slides for your presentation. Go through your entire presentation and ask yourself if you really need a given slide. If the answer is no, or if you find you can deliver the info verbally instead, eliminate it. 4. **Practice your presentation in front of a mirror or a small audience of friends and family before you do it for real.** If, during your practice run, you find that your time has elapsed before you could get through your whole presentation, you’ll know that your presentation has too many slides. Head back to the drawing board to edit it accordingly. If your presentation ended well before the time limit you’ve been given, try to extend the amount of time you spend on each slide, or add extra slides to expand on the info introduced in the presentation. Solicit advice from family and friends during your practice presentation. If they feel there are too many or too few slides, or if they feel certain sections of the presentation felt rushed or slow, adjust your presentation to correct these deficiencies. 5. **Think about the speed at which you speak.** If you speak quite quickly, you will be able to get through a great number of slides. If, on the other hand, you speak more slowly, you’ll probably require a smaller number of slides. Use your rate of speech to determine how many slides your presentation can accommodate. 6. **Do not use too many slides.** If you have ten minutes to present, you might need upwards of 60 slides. On the other hand, you might also need just ten slides. Whatever number you settle on, do not include more slides than you can get through in your allotted presentation time. 7. **Do not use too few slides.** If you have a lot of info that would be of use in your PowerPoint, or have graphs, tables, or images available that could improve your presentation, use them. While you don’t want to include so many slides that you can’t get through them all in the allotted time, neither should you feel constrained to the point that you don’t include valuable information or graphics in your slideshow. 8. **Don’t listen to the experts.** Everyone seems to have their own idea of how many slides is enough. Some people think five slides is enough for thirty minutes, others think ten is enough for twenty minutes, and still others think ninety or more could be right for twenty minutes. In fact, each presentation is different, and needs to be approached on its own merits. One well-known formulation for PowerPoint presentations is the 10/20/30 rule. This rule dictates that you should use about ten slides for a twenty minute presentation, and each slide should utilize thirty point font. In other words, each slide should be about two minutes in length. Perhaps the 10/20/30 rule works for you. If it does not, don’t feel as if you’re using the wrong number of slides. Others argue that an average slide should be onscreen for no more than two minutes, and can be onscreen for as little as 15 seconds. 9. **Match the number of slides to the subject matter.** Some topics require a few slides and a lot of exposition. Other topics require many slides with only minimal explanation. For example, if your presentation is on a particular product or a single beautiful landscape, then many slides containing photographs may be more effective than a few slides featuring text. Think about how you can combine a number of text-based slides into a few image-based slides with some accompanying text, and vice versa. 10. **Tailor your slideshow to your audience.** If you're presenting highly detailed or technical information to a group of people who are very familiar with the industry terms and metrics that you're presenting, you might include a lot of slides that you move through rather quickly, but which are necessary to provide supporting material and demonstrate that you know what you’re talking about. If you’re presenting the same data to a high-school business class, you might need to condense the slides you’re presenting and edit the presentation so that you can explain each concept in language which the layman will understand. 11. **Think about the venue you’re presenting in.** If you’re presenting in a large venue like an auditorium but you only have a small projection screen for your PowerPoint slides, you should minimize the importance and number of your slides and focus instead on the spoken aspect of your presentation. Similarly, if you’re presenting outside or in a brightly-lit environment, you might want to consider keeping the number of slides in your presentation to a minimum since they might be too hard to see in the glare. If, on the other hand, you’re in a more intimate environment and can control the lighting, you might be inclined to utilize a greater number of slides. As always, however, don’t feel obligated to use many slides just because you can.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-the-Right-Number-of-Slides-for-a-Powerpoint-Presentation", "language": "en"}

How to Heal a Tongue Ulcer

Tongue ulcers are painful round sores that can be white, gray, or yellow in color. While they can be irritating, they’re usually not serious, and most resolve on their own in just a week or 2 at home. Genetics, biting your tongue, stress, certain food allergies, nutritional deficiencies, and, rarely, oral cancer can all play a role in developing ulcers. By managing your discomfort, addressing the causes of ulcers, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can heal your tongue ulcer and feel better in no time. 1. **Use a soft toothbrush.** Swap your firm- or medium-bristled toothbrush for a toothbrush labeled “soft” on the package. Stiff-bristled toothbrushes can cause small abrasions and tongue irritation, including ulcers. 2. **Switch to a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate.** Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a foaming agent found in many types of toothpaste. SLS may cause tongue ulcers to form or recur. Ask your dentist to recommend a good toothpaste that is SLS free. 3. **Try an antimicrobial mouthwash to speed healing and prevent infection.** Ask your doctor about using an antimicrobial mouthwash, which is available by prescription. Many of these mouthwashes contain chlorhexidine, a strong antimicrobial agent, which can help heal your ulcers but may also temporarily stain teeth. Children under 2 years old shouldn’t use chlorhexidine mouthwashes. These mouthwashes should be taken as directed by your doctor, and most shouldn’t be used more than 7 days in a row. 4. **Choose soft, mild foods while your ulcer heals.** Temporarily steer clear of sharp or rough foods, such as brittles or hard candies, as well as spicy or acidic foods. These can all inflame tongue ulcers and delay healing. Minimize hot beverages, which can burn your mouth, and drink very cold beverages through a straw. Avoid talking while you chew, since this can increase your risk of biting your tongue and irritating the ulcer further. 5. **Reduce pain with topical analgesic gels.** Apply a nail-head sized amount of oral numbing gel to your ulcer up to 4 times per day to ease discomfort. Avoid using toothpaste or drinking acidic beverages for at least an hour after applying the gel. You can purchase over-the-counter oral numbing gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine at your local pharmacy or grocery store. 6. **Rinse with salt water or baking soda to promote healing.** Dissolve 1 teaspoon (10 g) of salt or baking soda in ½ cup (118 ml) of lukewarm water. Rinse your mouth out with the solution twice a day. This can lessen the sensitivity of tongue ulcers and speed healing. 7. **Put milk of magnesia on your tongue ulcer to reduce discomfort.** Dip the tip of a cotton swab into milk of magnesia. Dab the tip of the swab gently against your tongue ulcer. Repeat this up to three times a day to lessen your discomfort. 8. **Apply ice to relieve pain.** Let ice chips dissolve in your mouth over the tongue ulcer, if it dulls your pain. In some people, cold may increase pain and sensitivity, so listen to your body. You can apply ice as frequently as is comfortable to ease any discomfort. 9. **Take supplements to prevent new ulcers from forming.** Certain types of vitamins may help prevent the development of mouth ulcers. If you have trouble with recurring tongue ulcers, try taking vitamin B, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, or lysine. Always consult your doctor before starting a new vitamin or dietary supplement, especially if you are taking other supplements or medications. Talk to your doctor about the possibility that your tongue ulcers might be caused by a vitamin deficiency. Tongue ulcers can be caused by deficiencies in vitamin B-12, zinc, folic acid, or iron. 10. **Embrace a tobacco-free lifestyle.** Talk to your doctor about quitting smoking and weaning off any oral tobacco use. These products can irritate your tongue and cause ulcers to form. 11. **Avoid foods and drinks that are common triggers.** Spicy, salty, or acidic foods and drinks can aggravate current ulcers and cause new ulcers to form. Certain other types of foods may also cause ulcers in people who are sensitive to them. If you get tongue ulcers frequently, try cutting these foods out of your diet: Chocolate Strawberries Eggs Coffee Nuts Cheese 12. **Moderate your alcohol intake.** Aim to drink fewer than 3 drinks in a given day and no more than 7 drinks over the course of a week. Heavy alcohol consumption combined with tobacco usage can greatly increase your risk of tongue ulcers caused by oral cancer. 13. **Meditate** Try meditation to lower your stress level, as many doctors believe anxiety can trigger recurrent tongue ulcers. Go somewhere peaceful and sit quietly, taking 5-15 minutes to focus on your breathing and clear your mind. If possible, clear your schedule of unnecessary commitments for a period of time to reduce your stress level and help you relax. 14. **Ask your dentist to check that your dental devices fit well.** Bring any retainers, dentures, or headgear to a routine dentist appointment to make sure your devices are fitting properly. Poor-fitting dentures, defective fillings, and even the rough edges of orthodontic devices can all cause tongue ulcers and oral irritation. Your dentist can make small adjustments as necessary and even examine any ulcers. 15. **Pay attention to hormonal changes.** If you menstruate, track your monthly cycle to note if your tongue ulcers coincide with hormonal shifts. Your period or even menopause can cause tongue ulcers to form as your body manages changing hormone levels. If you find these hormonal ulcers bothersome, consult your gynecologist about whether hormonal birth control or other hormone-replacement therapy might ease your symptoms. 16. **Address any potential side effects of your current medications.** Consult your doctor about any long-term medical conditions that may impact your oral health. Certain antibiotics, beta-blockers, and inhaled corticosteroids can cause tongue ulcers. Asthmatics, diabetics, and those who suffer from depression are more at risk for these side effects given the common treatment medications these ailments require. Some negative side effects can be mitigated by behavioral changes, such as rinsing your mouth thoroughly after taking a corticosteroid inhaler. Your doctor may also be able to try other medications to manage your long-term condition with fewer side effects. Those with ulcers should avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as Tylenol and Advil, regularly as these medications can cause tongue ulcers to form. If your doctor has prescribed a therapeutic NSAID regimen, discuss any tongue ulcer concerns. 17. **See a doctor if your ulcer does not heal within 3 weeks.** Make a doctor’s appointment if your tongue ulcer persists beyond 3 weeks. It may be infected or require special care. Typical ulcers should heal within a week or 2 at home. 18. **Make a doctor’s appointment if the ulcer becomes painful or red.** See your doctor or dentist if your tongue ulcer bleeds or becomes acutely painful. It may be caused by a viral infection or skin condition that needs to be addressed with medication rather than home care. Cold sores, caused by the herpes virus HSV-1, and hand, foot, and mouth disease are examples of viral infections that can cause tongue ulcers. 19. **Consult your doctor if your tongue ulcers recur frequently.** Tell your doctor about any recurrent tongue sores, which may be a sign of a more serious condition. Nerve irritation, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, Behcet’s disease, and Reiter’s syndrome, and oral cancer can all cause recurrent tongue ulcers that heal slowly. Your doctor can examine your sores and create a treatment plan for you.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-a-Tongue-Ulcer", "language": "en"}

How to Remove Needle Marks from Fabric

Tiny needle holes are inevitable when you unpick a hem, remove embroidery, or take off a pocket. Fortunately, a few simple tricks can restore the fabric and make it look perfectly smooth. You don't even need fancy tools! Grab a spoon and heat up an iron. You'll use a combination of moisture, heat, and scraping the fabric to remove those irritating needle marks. 1. **Spray the fabric with water to relax the fibers.** Fill a clean spray bottle with water and squirt enough water on the holes to moisten the fabric fibers. Since your goal is to fill the tiny holes with the fabric's own fibers, loosening the fibers makes them easier to adjust. If you're fixing delicate fabrics like silk or satin, don't spray them with water since this can damage the material. 2. **Scrape your nail or a spoon from side to side over a needle mark.** To help close up the tiny holes in horizontal threads, scrape the tip of your fingernail or the edge of a spoon from side to side. Do this for each needle mark. If your fabric is thick or stiff, press firmly as you scrape over the holes. Fabric is made by weaving threads vertically and horizontally. The horizontal threads are the weft threads of the fabric. 3. **Scratch your nail or spoon up and down over the hole.** Once you've brought the weft fibers together, scrape up and down to shift the vertical fibers. Repeat this for each needle mark. As you work, the needle marks should close up. The vertical threads of fabric are the warp threads. 4. **Repeat the process if you still see needle marks.** Depending on your fabric, the needle marks might be completely invisible. If you can still spot them, spray the fabric with water again and scrape your fingernail or spoon over the holes. Then, look for needle marks. The number of times you repeat the process depends on the size of the needle marks, the fabric material, and the material's thread count. 5. **Flip the fabric over and repeat the process.** Once you've worked on 1 side of the fabric, turn it over. Repeat all of the steps to completely close the needle marks. Keep in mind that you probably won't need to spend as much time scraping this side of the fabric. 6. **Spritz the fabric with water and leave it for a few minutes.** Pour water into a clean spray bottle and squirt water onto the needle marks. Let the fabric absorb the moisture and sit for a few minutes so the fibers relax. This makes the needle marks close easily. Avoid spraying delicate fabrics like silk or satin with water since moisture could damage them. You can also try tossing the fabric in your washing machine and running a cycle. In some cases, this is all it takes to hide the needle marks. 7. **Heat an iron according to your fabric type.** Set up an ironing board and set your iron on it. Then, read the care label for the fabric and heat your iron to the appropriate setting. For example, if you're working with cotton, heat the iron to medium-high heat. If you're unsure which temperature to use, heat the iron to warm. 8. **Press the iron onto the needle-marked fabric.** Spread the fabric on an ironing board and press the iron directly onto the needle marks. Hold it in place for about 10 seconds before you lift the iron off. If there are several needle marks, run your iron over the area to help close the holes. Use steam on the fabric if it can handle the heat and moisture. The pressure and steam from the iron help the fibers shift back into place. 9. **Use a seam ripper to cut through hand stitches or machine stitches.** A seam ripper is a great tool for pulling out a row or just a few stitches. The seam ripper looks like a small, sharp hook that you slide under the stitch. Then, pull up sharply to slice the stitch. Repeat this anywhere on the fabric where you want to remove stitches. Turn the fabric over and work on the backside to minimize the size of the needle marks. 10. **Run a stitch eraser over the fabric to remove embroidery stitches.** If you'd like to take out sturdy embroidery stitches that were made by a machine, buy a stitch eraser, which looks like small hair clippers or trimmers. Turn the fabric to the backside and slowly hold the stitch eraser over the embroider to shave the threads. Then, brush away the loose threads. You can buy a stitch eraser at your local craft store or online. Hold the eraser blade so it's perpendicular to the embroidery threads. 11. **Take a pair of tweezers and pluck the loose stitches out of the fabric.** Once you've sliced through the stitches or used the stitch eraser, use tweezers to pull the loose strands of thread from the fabric. If it's easier, use your fingertips to pull the stitches out.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Needle-Marks-from-Fabric", "language": "en"}

How to Beat the Third Bowser in Super Mario 64

The third bowser is also the last boss in Super Mario 64. If you are having some trouble beating him, and you'd like to know how, then keep reading this article. 1. **Collect 70 Stars from the various levels in the castle.** 2. **Know where the final battle with bowser is located.** It is on the third floor of the castle, in the same type of door that the first two bowser battles were in, and on the same floor as Tick Tock Clock, Rainbow ride, and the secret level Wing Mario Over the Rainbow. 3. **Know that the same method is used in fighting Bowser as the first two times.** You have to get behind him, grab his tail, spin him around using the control stick on your controller, and throw him into a bomb located on the side of the arena. 4. **Know most commonly used method to grab Bowser's tail is running around Bowser in circles.** He'll most likely spin around to keep track of you so that he can attack in your direction, but don't be alarmed. 5. **Recognize his most commonly used attack.** His most commonly used attack is his fire breath. When he does this attack, he faces one direction and keeps facing that direction as he breathes the fire. This is the perfect opportunity for you to maneuver around him and grab his tail with B. 6. **Spin Bowser around using the control stick.** Remember that the more speed you gain, the farther he'll fly. However, it'll be harder to aim if you move too fast. This is perfected with practice. 7. **Avoid worrying if you miss the bomb.** If he falls off, he'll come back up, and break a piece off of the side of the arena. Watch for the shockwaves that will also be on the ground, and try avoiding them by jumping over them. This is easier if you are farther away from where Bowser lands. 8. **Let go of his tail using the B button, and throw him into a bomb on the edge of the stage.** 9. **Repeat this process once again when he comes back up.** 10. **Know that after the second time you succeed in throwing him into a bomb, parts of the stage will collapse and form a star shape.** Don't worry, it's still possible to defeat him at this point. 11. **Repeat this process a third time.** 12. **Collect the giant star that Bowser turns into.** Mario will then be wearing a wing cap. Now, enjoy the ending sequence and celebrate beating the final boss of Super Mario 64! 13. **Go to the star door.** This time, you will have to scroll a message from Bowser. While you technically don't have enough stars to access the final Bowser, the door will still open for you, however the stairs are supposedly endless. 14. **Glitch up the stairs.** You can do this by performing the backwards long jump move. 15. **Tap the A button rapidly while you are doing the move.** If you have successfully done the glitch, you should now be at the top of the stairs, and notice the painting of Bowser, as well as a hole you can jump in to access the final level.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Beat-the-Third-Bowser-in-Super-Mario-64", "language": "en"}

How to Drive an SUV

Driving an SUV can make you feel safer because of its size, but an SUV comes with its own challenges. SUVs can be prone to rollovers, and, while they do have off-road options, they aren't fully equipped for off-road terrain. Fortunately, driving an SUV is safe if you know what you're doing. 1. **Keep your tires aired up.** Tire pressure is more important for SUVs than other smaller vehicles because of their size and weight. SUVs are heavier than most vehicles, prone to rolling, and are sometimes used for off-roading. No matter how you use your SUV, the tires must be balanced to avoid dangerous conditions. Use the recommended air pressure reading in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the placard inside your driver's side door jamb. This is your best resource for finding the proper tire pressure. Do not use the measurement on the sidewall of your tire because it is the maximum tire pressure your tire can withstand. Check your tire pressure once a month and after extreme temperature changes, such as the first hot day of the year or after a cold front. Test your tires at a time when you haven't driven on them much. Use a tire gauge either at home or at a gas station. Compare the reading to the recommended tire pressure. If the reading is lower than the recommended tire pressure, air up your tires. If it's higher than recommended, push in the valve to let out some of the air. 2. **Check around your vehicle before getting into the driver's seat.** Because SUVs are so high off the ground, it's hard to see if items, pets, or people are around your vehicle when you're sitting in the driver's seat. Before you even get in the vehicle, check around your car to make sure that the area is clear. 3. **Adjust the mirrors.** Check the rearview and side mirrors to make sure that you have the best possible visibility behind and around your vehicle. SUVs are large vehicles, so you'll need your best line of sight to navigate your vehicle. Your rearview mirror should face straight out of your rear window with a full picture behind your car. Your side mirrors should be at a slight angle that barely shows the side of your car. To provide the best view around your car, you should tilt the mirror just wide enough that your car nearly disappears from view. 4. **Avoid distractions.** Keep your eyes on the road at all times. When driving an SUV, you should be more alert than in other vehicles because it takes longer to stop. Don't use your phone, eat snacks, put on makeup, or play with your radio. 5. **Increase speed slowly.** Because of the size of your vehicle, you'll need to slowly increase your speed. Aggressively pressing on the gas can make it harder to control your vehicle. 6. **Allow extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you.** Because your SUV weighs more than a smaller vehicle, it will take more space for your vehicle to stop. While you will brake as usual, the SUV will take longer to stop because of its weight. Avoid tailgating other vehicles because you may not have enough room to stop. A common way to determine a safe driving distance is to use the "three second rule." Choose a landmark, like a sign. When the car in front of you passes it, count how many seconds it takes for you to pass the landmark. There should be a minimum of three seconds between you and the other vehicle. In an SUV, allow for more than three seconds. 7. **Avoid swerving.** While it's tempting to overcorrect your steering, your SUV is more likely to roll over if you turn the wheel too quickly. Instead, keep a firm hand on your steering wheel and slowly pump the brakes while you navigate around road obstacles. 8. **Slow down on curved roads.** SUVs easily go onto the shoulder on curved roads, creating a hazard because the vehicle can roll. Lower your speed and try to anticipate curves when driving a winding road. You should drive slowly enough that you barely have to turn the wheel when you go around curves. A safe speed on most winding roads is between 20–30 mph (32.2–48.3 km/h), while very tight turns have a safe speed of 10–15 mph (16.1–24.1 km/h). 9. **Avoid sudden turns.** Sudden turns shift your vehicle's weight and can make the vehicle lose its balance, which can cause a rollover. Slow down before a turn, or lightly pump the brakes as you get closer to the turn. If you can, pass up a sudden turn and circle back to your destination. While this is not possible on a winding road, it is when you miss an exit or turn off. 10. **Avoid storing items on the roof.** Storing items on the roof of your SUV shifts the center of gravity and increases your risk of rollover. To stay safe, secure your cargo inside the vehicle. 11. **Drive slower than you would in a smaller vehicle.** SUVs are equipped with 4-wheel drive, so they can speed up more quickly than a regular car. However, they do not slow down any faster. In fact, their size often makes it take longer to slow down. Drive slowly so that you are able to stop in a reasonable space. Reduce your speed by at least ten miles under the speed limit. 12. **Avoid going off-road during bad weather.** If you do take your SUV off-road, you shouldn't when the weather is bad. Your vehicle won't be able to navigate very well in the wet, muddy, or icy conditions. All-wheel drive doesn't mean that your vehicle isn't vulnerable in bad conditions. 13. **Drive in the middle lane when the roads are wet.** Water tends to gather on the sides of the road, so the middle lane will be the least wet area of the roadway. Wet roads can cause hydroplaning and will make it harder for you to stop. 14. **Slow down on wet or icy roads.** Wet and icy roads can cause hydroplaning and make it harder to stop your vehicle. Lower your speed so that you can maintain control of the vehicle and more easily navigate out of dangerous situations. Accelerate slowly and give yourself plenty of time to stop. Go especially slow around intersections, bridges, overpasses, off-ramps, and shady spots, which are all susceptible to black ice. You should drive at least ten miles less than the speed limit. 15. **Avoid using cruise control on icy roads.** You need to be in full control of your vehicle when roads are icy, and cruise control takes away some of your control. Increase and decrease speeds using only your pedals during icy conditions. 16. **Avoid extreme off-roading.** Average SUVs are not made for extreme conditions. Unless your model specifically says it is made for extreme terrain, choose only mild off-road conditions. Stick to dirt roads, firm soil, and flat areas. 17. **Tell people where you are going and how long you'll be there.** This is especially true if you're planning to drive somewhere remote or if you're alone. If something happens and your vehicle becomes stuck or disabled, then you will need someone to know where to look for you. You may not always have cell service when off-road, so be sure to tell someone where you're going beforehand. 18. **Secure all cargo.** Loose cargo will move around while you drive off-road and cause your vehicle's center of gravity to shift. This could put you at risk for an accident or rollover. Try tying down your cargo, and put as much as you can in the back of your vehicle behind the seats. 19. **Engage your all-wheel drive.** All-wheel drive will help you better navigate the natural terrain, and it will keep your vehicle from getting stuck if some of your wheels lose traction in the soil or dips in the terrain. 20. **Use your downhill brake assist.** Even mild off-road conditions can have dips, so make sure your vehicle is set in assist mode so that you are able to stop if you need to. 21. **Put the SUV in first gear.** You will need to move as slowly as possible and with as much control as you can have over the vehicle, so first gear is the best choice. When you are off-road, you will inch forward slowly.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Drive-an-SUV", "language": "en"}

How to Freeze Oysters

Although oysters are best eaten when they’re fresh, they don’t have to go to waste just because you have too many to enjoy all at once. You can freeze oysters in their shells, on the half-shell, or shucked, but be sure the oysters are still alive if you freeze them in their shells. When stored properly, oysters should stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months, but they should be cooked before they are eaten. 1. **Tap the shells to check if the oysters are still alive.** Oysters should be frozen, eaten, or cooked alive to prevent the spread of foodborne illness. When you tap on a live oyster, it will hold its shell tightly shut, or it will close it if it’s opened. Sort through the oysters individually, carefully checking each one. If you come across an open oyster that doesn’t react when tapped, discard it. 2. **Wash the shells thoroughly under cool running water.** Before you freeze the oysters, you should wash the shells to rinse away any sand or pieces of shell that might be present. If you like, you can gently scrub the outside of the shell with a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt. By washing the oysters before you freeze them, they’ll be ready to shuck and cook as soon as you thaw them out. This will also help preserve their texture better than washing them after they are thawed. 3. **Place whole oysters in moisture-resistant bags in the freezer.** The shells will protect the oysters from being damaged, so you can just toss them into a resealable plastic bag, then place the bag into the freezer. This is a great method for freezing oysters if you don’t have very many of them; however, it’s not the most efficient if you are storing a large quantity. 4. **Store the oysters in the freezer for up to 3 months.** After 3 months, you run the risk of your oysters becoming freezer-burned. When you're ready to thaw them out, place the bag of oyster shells into your refrigerator for about 24 hours. Use a permanent marker to write the date that you froze the oysters on the bag before you put it into the freezer so you don't forget how long it's been. 5. **Tap each oyster to make sure it's still alive.** A live oyster has a muscle that it uses to hold its shell tightly closed. If a live oyster is open, tapping on its shell should cause it to slam shut. If it stays open, the oyster has already died and you should throw it away. Oysters should always be shucked, eaten, or frozen while they are still alive to prevent exposure to a natural bacteria that can cause serious illness or even death. 6. **Scrub the shells with a stiff-bristled brush.** Hold the shell under running water and use a brush to scrub away any sand, shell particles, or mud that might be on the outside of the oyster. If the oyster isn't clean, you can push dirt onto the oyster meat with the knife when you open it. 7. **Hold the oyster with a dish towel or a glove.** Oyster shells are sharp, and it's easy to cut yourself when you're opening them. You'll get a better grip on the oyster and be less likely to get a cut if you protect your hand. 8. **Pry off the top shell of the oyster.** Carefully slide an oyster knife into the hinge, or the pointed edge, of the oyster shell, and twist until you hear a pop. Run the knife along the top edge of the oyster to free it from the shell, then break the top shell away. Keep the oyster upright to save as much of the oyster’s juice as possible. 9. **Place half-shell oysters in a shallow container.** Leave about ⁄2 in (1.3 cm) of headspace in the container, then seal the container and place it into the freezer. Carefully lay the oysters flat so the juices don’t spill out, as this liquid contains a lot of flavor. It will also help keep the oysters plump and hydrated while they’re frozen. 10. **Store your oysters in the freezer for up to 3 months.** After 3 months, your oysters will run the risk of becoming freezer burned and they will no longer be suitable for eating. Label the container so you don't forget how long they've been in the freezer. When you're ready to thaw out your oysters, place them in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. 11. **Rinse the shells under cold water before you shuck them.** By cleaning the oysters before you shuck them, you remove any sand and debris from the shells, as well as any bacteria that might be living on the oyster. If you like, you can use a stiff-bristled brush to clean the shells. 12. **Put on a pair of heavy gloves.** Rubber or canvas gloves will work best to protect your hands from the sharp oyster shells, and they will also help you have a better grip on the oysters as you’re shucking them. If you don’t have a pair of heavy gloves, fold a tea towel into quarters and drape it over the hand you’re using to hold the oyster. 13. **Tap each oyster to make sure it's alive.** Oysters keep their shells tightly closed when they’re alive. If they do open their shells, they will close them again when you tap on the outside of the oyster. If the oyster isn't alive, throw it away. Oysters should be alive when they are shucked, as bacteria grows quickly on shellfish once it is no longer alive. 14. **Hold the oysters over a bowl to keep the liquor.** The juice that is naturally in an oyster, called the liquor, is very flavorful. When you’re eating oysters raw, you usually slurp this liquid up with the oyster. By saving the juice, you can add it to whatever recipe you make with your oysters when you thaw them out, and you’ll get even more oyster flavor in your dish. The liquor inside the oyster should be clear or just slightly opaque. If it’s cloudy or yellowish, discard the whole oyster. 15. **Hold the oyster in your hand with the curved side down.** When you’re looking at the oyster, you should see one side that looks more rounded, and one side that looks more flat. The curved side should be against your palm, and the pointed end of the oyster should be pointing towards you. 16. **Place the knife in the hinge that connects the top and bottom shells.** The hinge is located at the pointy end of the oyster, and you should be able to find a small opening where you can insert the tip of your oyster knife. If you need to, you can wiggle the tip of the knife around to help it slide into the hinge. 17. **Twist the oyster knife until you feel the shell pop.** You might have to work the knife back and forth a little before you can twist it, but by twisting and prying, you should feel the oyster pop as the shell releases. Although an oyster knife works best for shucking oysters, you can use a butter knife if you need to. The more you practice this, the easier it will be. 18. **Run the blade along the top of the shell to separate the top and bottom shells.** This will cut through the muscle that attaches the oyster to the top shell. Break the top shell off and discard it. As you’re doing this, tilt the oyster to allow the liquor to pour into the bowl. Try not to break the shell into pieces, since this will make it harder to get the meat out in one piece. 19. **Separate the oyster meat from the bottom shell with the knife.** Run the blade beneath the oyster in a smooth motion to sever the oyster’s muscle from the bottom shell. This will free the oyster, and you can discard the bottom shell as well. 20. **Place the oysters in a freezer-safe container and pour the liquor over them.** Once your oysters are shucked, you can place them into a shallow container or a resealable plastic bag, then pour any of the liquid that you reserved over the oysters. If the liquor doesn’t cover the oysters, add a little water to the container. 21. **Store the oysters for up to 3 months.** When you’re ready to thaw out the oysters, place the container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours or until they are completely defrosted. Due to food safety issues, you should not eat these oysters raw, but they will be excellent when they're cooked. The texture of the oysters will be different after freezing. Label the container before you put it into the freezer so you don't forget how long they've been in there.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Freeze-Oysters", "language": "en"}

How to End a Catfishing Relationship: Signs You're Being Catfished, What to Do, & More

Is your significant other not who they claim to be online? Getting into a catfish relationship can be an incredibly violating and traumatizing experience, but you don’t have to deal with this person’s deceitful ruse any longer. We’ve created an in-depth guide to help you cut ties with this toxic individual, so you can focus on healing and recovering from this hurtful relationship. 1. **Leave no room for doubt or confusion** Catfishers often use the same tricks and ruses to manipulate their victims, like using fake, too-good-to-be-true pictures on their dating profiles. An image search can tell you if these pics are originals or copies from somewhere across the web. Here are a few other warning signs that your SO might be a catfish: They want to take your relationship to the next level really quickly. Their profile seems a little too good to be true. They never want to video chat or meet up in person. They don’t seem to exist online when you look them up. They ask you to chat on a more private messaging platform, like email or WhatsApp. They ask you to loan them money. 2. **Give yourself and the catfisher an opportunity for closure.** Let your catfisher know what you’ve discovered, and that your relationship is over. Explain that you’re hurt and confused by their behavior, and give them a chance to be honest and drop the facade. Even if they refuse to drop the ruse, let them know that they’re out of your life. You might say: “I reverse searched some of your profile pictures and saw that they all came from stock photo websites. I know that you’re catfishing me, and I’m breaking things off. Still, I’d appreciate an explanation as to why you lied to and deceived me for so long.” “Cut the act, Jason—I know you’re catfishing me. This relationship is over, but I’ll give you one chance to come clean and explain yourself.” Confronting your catfisher is a really personal decision, and you definitely don’t have to reach out if you don’t feel comfortable. Remember—they’ve already wasted enough of your time, and you don’t owe them anything! 3. **A quick conversation can save someone from a lot of hurt.** Before blocking your catfisher on every possible platform, take a look at their friends lists and followers to see if you share any mutual contacts. It could be worth sending a quick warning message to these people to let them know that their “friend” isn’t who they say they are. “Hey Cassie! I saw that you were following the account “itzjamie123xoxo” on Instagram. I recently discovered that they’re a catfisher, and I just wanted to give you a heads up.” “Hi John! Sorry for the random message—I saw that you follow @katie0157543 on Twitter. I just wanted to let you know that she’s a known catfisher, and that you might want to cut ties.” Don’t bother messaging mutual friends that you met through your catfishers. Chances are, they’re in on the scheme already. 4. **Catfishers are sneaky and may try to contact you after the fact.** Think of the different ways you contacted your catfisher over the past few weeks or months. Did you just text each other, or did they add you on multiple social media and messaging platforms? Whatever the case, block the catfisher’s phone number and all of their social media profiles so they can’t get in touch with you. Here’s how you can block them on: Facebook Twitter Snapchat WhatsApp Kik 5. **This prevents any other innocent victims from getting catfished.** Search in your chat history on the dating app to find the catfisher’s profile. Then, use the app’s built-in safety features to block and report the profile in question. Here’s how: Tinder Bumble Once they’re discovered, a resourceful catfish might slink to the bottom of the dating tank by deleting their dating profiles immediately. If you can’t find their profile, they’ve likely taken it down already. 6. **Tie up any loose ends that could help the catfisher track you down.** A lot of times, catfishers like to take their conversations to a more private platform, like email. If you and your catfisher chatted a lot via email, it might be worth making an entirely new account so they can’t contact you. You could also block the catfisher’s email address if you don’t want to get rid of your old account. Just keep in mind that your catfisher might try to contact you via burner/alternate emails. 7. **Catfishing isn’t just emotionally hurtful—it’s also illegal.** Catfishers often impersonate a living, unsuspecting person to make their ruse more convincing. In other cases, they’ll try to scam money from their online partner. It could be worth bringing your evidence to your local police station and seeing what the authorities say. Going to the police is a very personal decision. Don’t feel obligated to report your experience if you don’t want to! 8. **Give yourself some breathing room after ending the catfish relationship.** Getting catfished is a majorly hurtful and traumatic experience. Instead of jumping right back into the dating scene, give yourself some time to heal and recover from the toxic relationship by deleting your dating profiles altogether: Tinder Bumble Match.com OkCupid Plenty of Fish You can always delete the dating apps from your phone while still keeping your dating profile live on the site. It’s up to you! 9. **Remind yourself that you’re the victim and that you have nothing to be ashamed of.** It’s totally normal to feel upset, angry, and/or embarrassed after discovering that you were catfished. All of your feelings are valid and understandable—just remind yourself that you aren’t stupid or naive for wanting to find love online. At the end of the day, catfishing is always the fault of the catfisher, not the innocent victim who got caught on their hook. 10. **Self-care** Cook yourself a healthy meal, listen to some nice music, buy yourself something that’s been on your wish list for a while, or do some other activity that makes you feel happy and content. Self-care is a great way to remind yourself that you’re important and that your worth is not defined by anyone but yourself. You could: Cuddle with a pet Head out on a day or weekend trip Go for a walk Get a good night’s sleep 11. **Friends and family members can help you feel heard during this tough time.** Maybe you’re feeling angry that your catfisher so blatantly violated your trust, or hurt that your ex-partner manipulated you in such a despicable way. In any case, your friends and family can provide valuable guidance and help remind you that you’re not alone. 12. **Your feelings are completely valid, and you don’t have to deal with them by yourself.** There’s absolutely nothing wrong or shameful about seeing a therapist; in fact, seeing a therapist is a great way to work through your feelings and heal. A therapist can also help you: Vent your feelings in a healthy way Address your experiences in a safe environment Feel comforted and heard Gain a sense of independence and autonomy over your life

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/End-a-Catfish-Relationship", "language": "en"}

How to Grow Winter Squash

Hubbard, Butternut, Acorn, Delicata and Spaghetti squash are some of the many varieties that show up in supermarkets in the fall. Pumpkins fall into the same category, but some are good eating while others are fibrous and/or watery. Like so many vegetables and fruits on the market, the commercial varieties are often chosen for criteria other than flavor, but there's a huge variety of types that you can grow yourself. 1. **Choose varieties based on your climate and the space you have available.** If you have a long warm season you can grow almost anything; if it's shorter make sure to pick early-ripening types. Some squash grow on vines that can cover a lot of ground, so if you just have a 12 x 12 foot space, you're better off with a bush variety. Most details will be found on the packaging. Here are a few basics to consider: Butternut squash. This type of squash is bottle-shaped with a light brown rind. It is one of the most popular, common, and arguably most delicious. This type has a rich flavor and a smooth texture, in addition to a natural resistance to squash vine borers. They will store for six months or longer. Buttercup squash. This type isn't too different from the butternut squash, but it does mature faster than butternut or hubbard. It is good for areas with a shorter, cooler growing season. Each plant will likely grow vigorously and produce heavy crops of squat, green fruits. This type stores for four to six months. Hubbard squash and kabocha squash. These two types are often clumped together due to their similarities. They can be medium-sized or they can be absolutely huge. In general, they have drier flesh than most other winter squash. Their color varies by variety, and all varieties will store for four to six months. Delicata squash and dumpling squash. Delicate squash are cylinder-shaped and dumpling squash are pumpkin-shaped. They both produce single-serving-size, ivory-colored fruits with green stripes that turn orange when stored. If you live in a cool climate, these are pretty easy to grow. They are fast to mature and will store for three to five months. Acorn squash. This type is a ribbed, round fruit with a gold or green rinds. They also mature quickly and will store for at least three months. They are them popular in areas with short summers as there maturation process doesn't take much time. Spaghetti squash. These are so named because they are full of stringy fibers that look like pasta. The oblong fruits have smooth rinds that vary from tan to orange, and they will store for three to six months. 2. **Aim to plant your seeds after the last frost.** You should plant your squash seeds at the beginning of spring when the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C). Alternatively, you can plant them indoors under bright, fluorescent lights. In zone 6 and warmer, you can even plant your seeds in early summer. You should stop planting about 14 weeks before the first expected "frost." If you have a short growing season, you can start growing them indoors and then transfer them to the outside when all threat of winter has passed. If you are planting them inside, use biodegradable pots, such as peat pots, so that you can plant the entire pot when you transplant them outside. Removing squash from a plastic pot can disturb their roots and stunt their growth. 3. **Prepare your soil.** Squash like warm conditions with soil that is fertile, well-drained, and has a pH of 6 to 6.5 To get good growth and production, you'll need to add lots of organic matter to your garden. Rotted manure and compost are the best for getting your plants the nutrients they need. Dig them in deeply so that the squash's roots will penetrate easily. Squash are often planted in "hills." These help the squash grow by warming the soil more quickly and increasing drainage. Even in well-drained areas, hills can give your plants a boost by providing warm soil as they begin growing. Hills don't always literally mean a raised area. If you have fast-draining soil and a drier climate, you might actually make depressions, with a wide ridge around them, to hold water. Add some extra compost/manure to the area under your hills, too. 4. **Plant six seeds per hill about an inch (2 cm) deep in a sunny spot.** You want each hill to be part of a 3-ft wide row (they need their space). Leave about 5 to 6 feet (2 meters) between hills. Loosen the soil for up to a foot below the surface to ensure adequate drainage – you can mix in manure or compost at this step, too. They should appear in about 10 days. If you have a short season, you can get a jump on your growing time by planting them indoors, but if you plant too early and the squash become rootbound in their pots, it will actually stunt their growth. Upon planting, water them well. They need the initial burst of water to get going. 5. **Give your plants about 1 inch (2.** . In most climes, this is enough to keep your plants going strong. However, if you live in a particularly dry climate you can use flood-style irrigation every 2-3 weeks. Remove the weeds so they don't steal your water; a lack of water can stunt your plants, and weeds will use the nutrients you took all that trouble to dig into your soil. A drip system is nice but if you don't want to do that, simple trenches between the hills will help you get the water where you want it once the vines start getting rampant. Watering in the early morning allows the water to evaporate; this is good because water standing on leaves can create good conditions for disease. On hot days, it is normal for leaves to wilt a little bit during the heat of the day, but they will often firm back up in the evening. That said, if leaves are wilted early in the day before it is too hot, your plants need more water. 6. **Thin your plants.** Once your plants have put on a few leaves (this is called "germinating"), cull all but two or three at the very most per hill, leaving only the most vigorous plants. There simply isn't enough room for all of them to grow to adulthood. At this stage, you may want to set up row covers to protect your little plants from insects and make sure they grow to full capacity. 7. **Watch out for bugs and disease.** In the US, squash bugs and squash vine borers can do in a vine in no time. Dark gray squash bugs lurk under the leaves and suck the plant's juices. Borers are a caterpillar or a small moth that bores into the stems, killing the stem beyond the damage. Watch for their eggs under the leaves and along the ground. If you live in Europe you don't have those insects but other things can still damage your plants, so be vigilant! Floating row covers can help with this problem, though you'll have to remove them when your female flowers show up so they can be pollinated. Aphids can be controlled with soap spray or water and as a last result, use neem. "Powdery mildew" is another culprit, though non-bug, that you need to look out for. In the second half of their growing, spray the plants with a mixture of one part milk to six parts water every two weeks to fend off this disease 8. **Consider adding more fertilizer.** In about a month, you can add a side dressing of fertilizer to the vines – about 10 inches on either side. Don't dig too close or you'll damage the roots they send down at each leaf node. They won't be fully ripe for about 80 to 110 days, depending on the variety you've planted. There's still plenty of time for them to absorb fertilizer. 9. **Look for flowers.** By this point, you should start seeing flowers. The first flowers are usually male and will make no fruit, but they do train the bees. The female flowers are fewer and recognizable by the swelling below the base of the flower. This swelling is your future squash. If they don't form into squash, you may not have enough bees to pollinate them. You'll have to pollinate them yourself by going out early in the morning and taking the central pollen-covered organ in the male flower and brushing it all over the counterpart in the female flowers. 10. **Watch the swelling grow.** You'll know if the pollination was a success if the flower wilts and that swelling grows visibly in the next couple of days. At this point, all you have to do is keep your vines watered and weeded, and watch out for bugs or disease. You don't want wet soil all the time; during a warm summer without rain you'll probably water every few days or so. Watch for wilted leaves, that means they definitely need a drink. 11. **Consider using straw underneath developing squash.** As your squash begin to grow, you can carefully put a bed of straw under them if you like, to keep them off the ground and free of blemishes and rot. However, rot shouldn't be a problem if you don't overwater or the squash isn't forming in a wet depression. 12. **Reap the fruits of your labor.** Winter squash are generally ripe when you can no longer pierce the skin with your fingernail. The surest thing is to leave them on the vine until the vines start to die back, but you should definitely get them in before frost. That being said, immature fruits don't store well, so be sure to keep them growing for as long as possible. You'll likely get three to five squash per plant. Clip them off the vines with clippers and leave as much stem as you can, at least around an inch. Don't lift them by the stem; if it comes off the squash will rot. Take care not to damage the skins as that would create an entry point for rot. 13. **Cure the squash for storage.** This means leaving the better storing varieties in a warm place for 3-5 days so that the skins will harden up further, protecting them from fungus and bacteria. Butternut, Hubbard and related types (C. maxima and C. moschata) benefit from curing. Acorn and Delicata-type squash are not good storers, and trying to cure them can actually make them last less time, so you'll want to keep them cool from harvest, and use them within 2-3 months. A "warm" place should be 70 to 80°F (21 to 26°C). Before this stage, you may wish to clean them off with a damp, clean cloth to get rid of any dirt that could fester on the plant. The curing process seals the skins and dries the stem, leaving them ready for use. 14. **Keep your squash in a cool place.** It shouldn't be too dry or too wet. A cool room of a house, an unheated sun porch if it doesn't freeze, a cool cellar if it's not too damp or musty, are all possibilities – even under your bed could work. Keep your eyes open for signs of rot, or you might find a fermenting puddle where your squash were. Checking every week or two should be sufficient.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Winter-Squash", "language": "en"}

How to Use Clipless Pedals

Clipless is a misleading name to new cyclists, as these pedals do in fact clip in. The name means that there is no strap holding your foot to the pedal. Clipless pedals work by connecting to a plastic cleat which is attached to cycling shoes. By choosing cleats and pedals that are compatible, adjusting the float on the pedals, and learning to clip in and unclip, you can easily use clipless pedals. Using a stationary stand or leaning against a wall is a good way to get used to the unique feel of clipless pedals. 1. **Make sure your cleats and pedals are compatible.** Not all cleats will fit into all pedals, so when you are purchasing these it’s important to make sure they’ll fit together. If you purchase from a bike shop, an employee should be able to help you make sure you get ones that go together. Some cleats and pedals are made so they only go together as a set, while others will be interchangeable. You will have the option of pedals with clip-ins on both sides, which are good for commuting. Other pedals have a clip on only one side with the other side being flat, which is good if you want to ride without clips sometimes. You'll need to take off your old pedals if you are replacing them. 2. **Attach the cleats to your cycling shoes.** It’s important to have shoes that are made specifically for cycling because they are made to fit the cleats. Having an expert attach your cleats can be helpful to make sure they are angled on the shoes correctly. Most bike shops should have someone who can help you with the process. The centerline of your shoe is not exactly the same as the centerline of the cleat, which is why it can be helpful to have someone more experienced attach them. Cycling shoes will have small holes in the bottom where the cleat screws onto the shoe. The exact placement of the cleats is partly personal preference, so if you attach them and try them out on the pedals, you can adjust them if they don’t feel quite right. 3. **Loosen up the “float” tension on the pedals.** Float refers to how much your shoes can move around in the clips. When you start out, it’s better to make them loose until you get used to how it feels having your feet attached to the pedals. Lower tension can also make it easier to unclip while you get used to that. As you get used to clipless pedals, you can tighten the tension up to increase your riding efficiency. To adjust the tension, use an allen wrench. On the part of the pedal with the spring, you’ll see a small hole where the allen wrench is inserted. You’ll also see on the side a small gauge that moves as you loosen and tighten the tension. 4. **Push the cleat into the pedal until you hear a click.** The cleat and pedal attach to each other to hold your foot in place. When the mechanism engages, you’ll hear and feel a click with lets you know you’re clipped in. It’s best to clip in your non-dominant foot first so you can stay balanced on your dominant foot. It’s also easier to push off with your stronger foot. 5. **Hold your clipped-in foot at 45 degrees.** Once you clip your first foot in, move the pedal so that it’s ready to drive downward and propel your bike forward. Giving a hard initial pedal with this foot will help you build momentum before you clip your second foot in. It’s easier to clip in the second foot when you are already moving rather than trying to balance the bike while you clip in. 6. **Pedal for a few rotations with one foot unclipped.** You do not have to have both feet clipped in to be able to pedal your bike. You can pedal a bit with only one foot clipped in until you gain momentum. Once you are going steady, clip your second foot in and pedal as you normally would. Likewise, when nearing a stop, you can unclip and continue pedaling with that foot as you slow down. 7. **Unclip your dominant foot before you slow down.** One of the biggest mistakes for new clipless pedal users is coming to a complete stop before unclipping. Once the bike is stopped, it will be much harder to balance. Anticipate your stop early enough that you can unclip one foot. Stop pedaling and get your dominant foot pedal into the lower position as you prepare to stop. Unclip this and keep pedaling until you are ready to stop. 8. **Turn your heel outward to unclip.** As long as your foot is pointing forward, it will stay locked to the pedal. Once you turn the heel outward, it disengages the clip mechanism. This may be hard to master, as it feels a little unnatural to turn your foot that way. Make sure your foot is parallel to the ground, not tilted forward or backward. This will ensure the mechanism is aligned right and will easily disengage. 9. **Practice on a stationary stand.** Even though you are pedaling in the same motion as you would on flat pedals, it feels a little different with clipless pedals. If you can set your bike up on a stationary stand and practice getting clipped in, feel the difference in pedaling, and practice unclipping, you’ll feel more comfortable once you’re on the road. You probably don’t need to do this for weeks, or even days, just long enough to feel comfortable. If you ride for five minutes and you feel confident, then get out on the road. If it does take a few days to get the right, don’t feel bad. It’s better to spend a little long getting used to your new pedals than to end up out on the road feeling uncomfortable with riding. 10. **Lean against a wall, table, or fence to practice clipping in.** Keeping your balance when you clip in is one of the hardest parts to learn. If you practice by balancing against something stable, you can get the motion down. While holding the wall, clip in both feet, pedal backwards to stay in place, and then unclip both feet. When you are ready to ride, you can still begin to clip in by leaning on the wall for support. If you do this on your first few trips out on the road, you’ll get the hang of it enough that you won’t need the wall anymore. 11. **Ride on flat ground with grass nearby.** When you are first starting out riding with clipless pedals, you can make it easier for yourself by staying on level ground. It’s also good to have something soft nearby so that if you do fall, as most first timers do, you’ll have a cushion rather than falling on concrete. 12. **Check your cleats regularly.** Cleats wear out over time, and if you don’t check them for wear, they may eventually snap while you are riding. Since this could cause an accident, it’s good to check them on occasion to see how they are holding up. Cleats will wear out faster if you walk on them consistently, so it’s best to avoid this as much as possible. Consider having extra shoes to change into. You can also get rubber guards that go over the cleat to help protect it.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Clipless-Pedals", "language": "en"}

How to Make Medical Marijuana Brownies

Medical marijuana brownies or "weed brownies" are a great alternative to smoking weed. Although weed is illegal for recreational use in many countries, it has been adopted as a medicine to alleviate the symptoms of many illnesses. Some may not like to smoke in order to gain the benefits, but brownies are an easy and effective way to get around this. There are two parts to making marijuana brownies: the first part is the making of the butter, and the second part the making of the brownies. Making marijuana brownies is a fairly easy process and not much cooking knowledge is required, so grab your apron and get baking! 1. **Fill the large pot with water and boil.** Then place the glass bowl over it so it sits over the pan. Do not let the glass bowl sit in the water as the temperature will be too high. Once the water is boiling, change heat to medium-low and place butter into the bowl. 2. **Add 1 cup of water, and 10 grams of marijuana into the bowl once the butter is melted.** Continue to stir for at least an hour. Note: make sure the marijuana has been lightly ground. 3. **Place the cheesecloth over the aluminum pan and pour the butter mix into the pan.** This should filter all the leftover marijuana out. Make sure to get as much of the liquid out of the cheesecloth to gain more yield. Once all the liquid is extracted, freeze for 40 minutes. 4. **Remove the pan from the freezer after 40 minutes and poke a hole on the bottom of the pan.** this should remove any excess water from the butter. Once the water is removed, the butter is complete and ready to be added to the brownie mixture. 5. **Preheat oven to 350℉ (175℃).** 6. **Sift together 1 cup of flour, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt in a bowl.** 7. **Blend the butter.** (note: place butter in a microwave for 20 seconds to melt it), 2 cups of sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 4 eggs, 3 tablespoons of peanut butter, and 3 tablespoons of Nutella together in a separate bowl. (The Nutella and peanut butter should also be melted down in the microwave for about 20 seconds.) 8. **Mix the two bowls of ingredients together using a whisk or electric whisk.** Once mixed, place into a baking pan. 9. **Place in oven for 30 minutes.** Allow to cool and then enjoy! 10. **Finished.**

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Medical-Marijuana-Brownies", "language": "en"}

How to Write Best Selling Children's Books

Writing children's books for a living is a dream job for many. Children's literature is more popular than ever, and if you develop solid characters and a strong fan base you can land on the bestseller list. Keep in mind children's literature is a tough field, so it will take a long time to establish yourself as an author. To start, establish your brand. You want to know your target audience and the types of work you write, as all this will make you more appealing to an agent down the road. From there, work on establishing a solid story that has all the elements of a bestseller. After you've finished your work, look for an agent to represent you and seek out publication from major publishing houses. 1. **Pick an age range.** You do not want to walk up to an agent or publisher with a vague idea of your target audience. Agents and editors don't take well to book's that are "for all ages." If you want to write a bestseller, it's important to have a niche age range in mind. Things like picture books and stories with only a few words are usually for ages 2 to 6. Middle graders are generally ages 8 to 11. These would be stories targeted at mid-elementary school and early middle school. If you want to write for very young children, you can consider doing a picture book or a baby book. 2. **Select a genre.** You do not want to go into the market without a clear genre. Many popular children's books are fantasy-based in nature, or feature talking animals. If you want to write a bestseller, fantasy may be a good idea. However, some famous children's books, like Kevin Henkes's Lily's Purple Plastic Purse, feature an animal character that faces a realistic setting. It can be nice to write a children's book with a story children can relate to. Pick a genre that interests you. You're unlikely to stick with a project if you do not enjoy the genre. You're vastly more likely to produce an interesting product people will want to buy if you're passionate about your work. If you're a lifelong animal lover, for example, think about writing an animal book for children. Include animals as the main characters. 3. **Figure out what makes your book unique.** There is a lot of competition in the world of children's books. If you're going to survive and become a bestselling author, figure out what makes your story unique. What unique experience can you bring to the table? What's a story that only you can tell? Look at what's already out there. Familiarize yourself with the more popular children's stories so you don't produce a replica of an already established work. Try to see where there's room for diversity. Look at what the market is lacking. Think about your own life, experience, and passions. Maybe there's something unique about you that could help your work stand out. For example, there are lots of children's stories about animals, but how many stories feature a sugar glider? Maybe you own a sugar glider, and could tell a unique story from your pet's perspective. 4. **Read as a writer.** Reading as much as you can is a vital part of the prewriting process. Surround yourself with the most popular and prominent works in children's literature. Look into your target age range. Stop by a local library and ask a librarian for recommendations in that range. Pay attention to how the stories begin. Does the work begin with action, dialogue, a scene? How does the author get you interested in the story? What makes the characters compelling right away? Focus on characters. In a children's book, characters may be somewhat simple in nature. Focus on language. Children's books are often written in very simple prose. They may also make use of things like rhyme, as they're often meant to be read out loud. Watch how the story ends. What resolutions are made? How have the characters changed? Is there room left for a sequel, or are all ends tied up? 5. **Provide a likable main character.** Children need to be able to become invested in the main character in your book. As you write your children's book, focus on creating a main character with a lot of attitude. A fun, charismatic main character will get children invested quickly. Look at Kevin Henkes's Lily in Lily's Purple Plastic Purse. Lily is cute, charismatic, and excitable. She is a character children can get behind. Give your character flaws, however. Every story needs a conflict. Lily, for example, is overeager and somewhat temperamental. This is what causes her disagreement with her teacher. Figure out one or two flaws your character can have that will ultimately drive the story's conflict. 6. **Choose a setting that makes the ordinary dangerous.** One of the things that makes bestsellers compelling is they present a relatable experience, but find a way to make it extraordinary. Oftentimes, otherwise ordinary settings, like a boarding school or a small town, turn out to be dangerous. Children feel they are being let into the adult world when innocence is removed from a typical setting. Think about Roald Dahl. Much of his stories take place in an ordinary setting that suddenly becomes frightening. In Matilda, for example, a conventional boarding school turns out to be a terrible place for the students. If you're doing a longer children's book, one that's the length of a chapter book, you could think of a similarly unexpected setting. Think about a setting children are familiar with. For example, you could write about a school. A young child could discover his school is haunted, for example. This takes a setting children are familiar with and adds something a bit scary to it. 7. **Find a conflict.** Children face challenges in their day-to-day lives. They must overcome fears, confront challenges, deal with conflicts with friends and parents, and so on. Children want to read a book that reflects the conflicts they face. Think about a conflict you could introduce that your character must overcome. Look at something like the Berenstain Bears series. Most of the books center around a conflict related to young children. In "The Berenstain Bears and the Trouble with Junk food," for example, the children learn about healthy eating after a stressful doctor's appointment. The conflict is usually fairly easy to overcome, and helps teach kids a lesson. Think about a conflict that will get a child emotionally invested in a story. If you know any children, think about the kinds of conflicts they have. For example, maybe your niece Rosa struggled to fit in during Girl Scout meetings. Her friend Harper helped her overcome her shyness by sticking by her side during meetings. You could easily write a fun and relatable children's book based on this experience, focusing on themes like friendship and community. 8. **Choose a message.** Most children's books teach something to children. Sometimes, that message is practical. Children's books sometimes teach things like proper manners, or vocabulary. However, the message can also be more abstract. Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas, for example, teaches about appreciating people over products. An inspiring message like this can really help your story resonate with kids. Think about what children need to learn. What did you have to learn as a child? Think about a memorable moment that taught you a lesson. Maybe, after your grandmother entered hospice care, you realized you never valued her enough. Through this, you learned to gain wisdom from past generations. You can work this lesson into a story. Talk about a young child who learns to value the stories his grandmother told him more, teaching him the importance of history and family. 9. **Form a writing schedule.** If you want to write a children's book, work on getting organized. You should form a writing schedule for yourself. Work writing into your weekly routine, like exercising, doing your dishes, and brushing your teeth. Clear out a space to write in your home. Clear off a corner of a desk, or pick a spot in your bedroom. You can also write at a local coffee shop. It's important you pick a space free of outside distractions so you can focus on your work. Schedule time for writing. Think about when you feel most energetic. Some people feel invigorated in the mornings, while others feel enthusiastic later at night. Write during the time of day you feel most energetic. Set goals each day. You can have a specific word count, such as 100 words per day, or you can write a set number of pages each day. If you do not have time to write each day, set weekly goals. For example, you can promise you'll have 5 pages by the end of any given week. 10. **Use appropriate language.** Children have a limited vocabulary, so you do not want to use too many big words. You should also minimize excessive language. Stick to simple sentences that convey the basics. Things like rhyming and rhythm can also help. Think of the works of Dr. Seuss. He makes excellent use of rhyme to make his stories compelling to a young audience. You can use some big words in a story. In fact, children may benefit from learning new words in a book. If you choose to use large words, find a way to explain them. Weave high-brow vocabulary words into your story in a smooth fashion. For example, maybe you can have a character who works very hard at school and is a bit of a show off. He or she could use big words on occasion, and make a point of explaining these words to others. 11. **Team up with an illustrator.** Almost all children's books are illustrated. If you're not artistically inclined yourself, team up with an illustrator. The two of you can create compelling images for your story that will make the book aesthetically pleasing. Go to your friends who draw and ask them for advice here. Ask them if they would be willing to work with you. You can also post an ad online, on a site like CraigsList, seeking out illustrators for your book. Due to modern technology, you are not limited by location. You can find illustrators across the country. You can browse websites where people share their art. If you find an artist you like, reach out to him or her. Keep in mind a lot of artists will expect payment for their work. Budget for this. 12. **Revise your story extensively.** Much of writing takes place during revision. After finishing a draft of your story, do many, many revisions. Most successful books were revised multiple times before publication. It's a good idea to have a print copy of your manuscript to revise. That way, you can make notes as you go. Ask yourself if the story moves quickly enough, if the plot is relatable to children, and if the conflict is solved in a rational manner. Evaluate your writing. Does the dialogue feel natural? Are the characters, settings, and scenes described in a compelling manner? In addition to major overhauls, watch for easy fixes like grammar issues. When you start sending your manuscript to publishers, it should be free of obvious grammatical errors. 13. **Avoid peachiness or simple lessons.** Children's stories should not be simplistic in nature. Many people think you have to teach a lesson in your story. However, children are complex. Avoid simple lessons. Instead, explore a variety of complex themes. Many children's books explore wide-reaching themes like bravery, war, conflict, and parent/child relationships without explicitly providing their readers with a lesson about such subjects. It's okay to leave ambiguity in your work. 14. **Create a website or blog.** You're more likely to land an agent if you build a relationship with fans ahead of time. You can start a website or a blog about your book, and offer promotional materials like sneak previews, character profiles, and more. A lot of modern authors get their start online. You can use free sites like WordPress to create a blog. Work on updating your blog regularly and try to post content that people will share. Readers often respond to easy-to-read content, such as lists. Create a social media presence as well. Link your blog to your Twitter, a Facebook fan page, and your Tumblr. You can try starting a YouTube channel, making short videos where you discuss writing, your book, and children's literature in general. 15. **Network to meet the right people.** Networking is one of the main ways people get into publishing. If you get a short piece published in a journal, stay in touch with the editor. If you have an MFA in fiction writing, talk to your professors and colleagues. Attend reasonably priced writing conferences and try to meet agents and publishers. 16. **Work with an agent.** It is very hard to get a children's book published without an agent. Many big publishing houses do not look at unsolicited submissions. You will need an agent if you want to write bestsellers. You can find agents online through sites like Writers Market, Agent Query, and Query Tracker. Write a query letter to potential agents. This should briefly overview your publication history, online presence, and include a brief biography. You should also provide a synopsis of your book. Include a few sample chapters in the envelope you send to the agent. Follow all submissions guidelines carefully. Make sure you send in your chapters in the manner the agent prefers, following all the guidelines for formatting your manuscript exactly as requested. 17. **Be prepared for rejection along the way.** The process to becoming an author, especially a bestselling author, is long and difficult. You will get a lot of rejections from agents and publishing houses along the way, so learn to cope with rejection. Send out work frequently, and to a lot of different places. You're less likely to be stung by a rejection if you have a lot going on. A rejection from one agent will hurt less if you've already submitted to five. Also, keep in mind rejection is rarely personal. Most authors get rejected a lot, especially early on. Your work may not have been the right fit, it may have been too similar to another title, or the agent simply may not have had time to read it closely. A rejection does not mean you are a bad writer.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Write-Best-Selling-Children%27s-Books", "language": "en"}

How to Travel a Long Distance with a Dog

Whether you are moving across the country or taking a road trip, traveling can be a stressful activity. Traveling with your dog can add even more of a burden to your trip. If you want to travel a long distance with your dog, make sure they have all of their vaccinations, pack up their essentials, and tire them out before you start your trip. If you are going by car, be sure they have plenty of food, water, and shade. If you are traveling by plane, check with your airline to figure out what restrictions and guidelines you need to follow. 1. **Make sure your dog has all of their vaccinations.** It is important to make sure your dog will be happy and healthy during their travels. Take your dog to the vet to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations so that they are protected against any new germs they may come into contact with. Vaccines for rabies, canine hepatitis, and canine distemper are all standard. Check if there are any diseases your dog could catch in the areas where you’re traveling. If there are, ask your vet about getting the proper vaccinations for your dog. Look for information about ticks or sandflies in the area to see if you need to take special precautions with your dog. 2. **Have your vet prescribe your dog medication for motion sickness.** If you’ve taken your dogs on shorter car rides before, you may have noticed that they get sick from the motion of the car. Ask your vet if they could prescribe something for your dog to help ease their stomach while in motion. Most often this is a pill that you give your dog every few hours during a car or plane ride. Do not give your dog medication unless it has been prescribed by a veterinarian. 3. **Pack up the essentials for your dog in an easy-to-access bag.** Every dog is different and requires different essential items. Make sure you have your dog’s food, some water, 2 dishes, their leash and harness, poop bags, toys, and treats in a bag. Keep this bag in an easy-to-reach space so you can take items out as you need them on your trip. Be sure to pack any medication that your dog takes so you have enough for the entire trip. If your dog has a medical condition, get a copy of their medical history from your vet in case there’s an emergency. Make sure the history includes any diagnoses, tests done on your dog, and the medication dosages it needs. Make sure to bring the pets up to date vaccination records, in case your pet shall bite someone. The records will show that there's no concern for the person's health. 4. **Tire out your dog with a long walk before you start your journey.** Dogs have a lot of pent up energy, especially if they are young. Take your dog on a walk or a hike to exercise and tire them out. This can help with any nervous energy they may have as well. It might also be nice to stretch your legs before your journey. Consider getting your dog microchipped before you travel so someone can identify them if they run away or get lost. 5. **Buckle your dog in with a harness or dog seat belt.** Dogs shouldn’t be allowed to roam around in the car while it is moving since they can provide distractions or be hurt in the event of an accident. Set up a dog harness, seat belt, or crate restraint for your dog in the car so that they remain seated and in 1 place during your travels. Small dogs can sit in a crate that is attached to a seatbelt, while larger dogs can be buckled in through their harnesses. If you do use a crate in the car, make sure it is large enough for your dog to comfortably turn around in. Ensure any restraints or harnesses you use have been crash-tested so you know they’re safe in case of a collision. 6. **Lay down a blanket or dog bed to keep your dog comfortable.** If you aren’t using a crate and your dog will be sitting directly on the seats of your car, put down a blanket or a dog bed that they like to make them feel more at ease. Use something that they like to lay on at home so it smells like them. Putting down a blanket or a dog bed will also help to protect the seats in your car. Have plastic bags and cleaning supplies handy in case your dog has motion sickness. Make sure you have enough bags to clean up after your dog for when you stop to let it out. 7. **Put up window shades to keep your dog out of the sun.** If you are traveling in the summer, your car might heat up with the sun. If you want to keep your dog out of sunspots, put up some window shades in the back seats. These shades tint your windows slightly and help to cool down your entire car. If your windows are tinted, you probably don’t need added sun shades. If it’s really hot out, keep the windows open or turn on the air conditioning so your dog doesn’t get overheated. 8. **Give your dog a toy or a bone to keep them entertained.** Dogs can get bored just like humans do. If your dog isn’t tired enough to sleep in the car, give them something to chew on to entertain them. If it’s a long car ride, it probably won’t keep them busy the whole time, but it can work for a few hours. You can also keep the radio on if your dog likes to listen to music. 9. **Pull the car over every 2 hours for a bathroom break.** Dogs tend to urinate more during car rides because their anxiety levels are higher. Make sure you give your dog many opportunities to do their business, especially if you are in the car for a long time. Make sure to bring bags to pick up any poop. 10. **Feed your dog on their normal schedule.** If your dog eats twice a day, be sure to offer them food in the morning and the evening even while you are traveling. Keep them on their normal feeding schedule so that they don’t get hungry. Your dog may not be hungry in the car. Offer them food just in case they want to eat it later. 11. **Offer your dog water once an hour.** It’s extremely important to keep your dog hydrated while they are in the car. Bring a water bottle and a small dish that your dog can drink out of when they are in the car. Offer water to them about once every hour, or more if it is hot out. Depending on the length of your car ride, you may need to bring multiple bottles of water or refill them as you go. 12. **See if your dog is small enough to fly in the cabin with you.** In order for dogs to fly in the cabin of a plane, they need to be small enough to fit in a carrier that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. Check with your airline to see what the weight restrictions are for your flight and whether or not your dog meets them. If your dog can’t fit in a carrier under the seat they will have to ride in the cargo hold of the plane, which can be dangerous. 13. **Consider the risks of having your dog fly in the cargo hold if they can't fly in the cabin.** If your dog is too big to fly in the cabin with you, they will have to fly in a crate in the cargo hold. Cargo holds are not kept very warm or pressurized, so if your dog is old or frail, you shouldn’t risk it. If you are taking multiple flights, you may not want to have your dog fly in the cargo hold since they could get lost or misplaced more easily. Try to choose direct flights so your dog doesn’t have to be transferred as much. Opt for flights in the early morning or late evening so your dog doesn’t overheat if the plane is stuck on the tarmac. Some airlines don’t allow breeds that may have difficulty breathing into the cargo hold. This may include flat-faced breeds, such as Pekingese, pugs, or boxers. 14. **Check with your airline to see what their pet restrictions are.** Most airlines require you to pay a small fee to bring a pet onto an airplane. Contact your airline before your trip and ask if they have any special vaccination or carrier requirements. Most airlines will require you to show proof that your dog is up to date on its vaccinations. 15. **Purchase a USDA-approved crate if your dog will be flying in the cargo hold.** If your dog is too large to fly in the cabin with you, make sure the crate they will be staying in is large enough for them to turn around and lay down in. The US Department of Agriculture, or USDA, checks animal crates for safety, so look for one with their stamp of approval. Pad it with a small blanket or dog bed so that your dog is comfortable. Put an item with your scent, such as an old T-shirt, in the crate to help your dog feel more comfortable. Get the travel crate a few weeks or months before you plan on leaving so your dog can get used to going inside of it. 16. **Write your name, phone number, and “LIVE ANIMAL” on their crate.** Make sure that your crate can be easily identified in case it gets lost or separated from you. Use a permanent marker to write all of your information on the side of your dog’s crate in case of emergency. You can also carry a picture of your dog with you in case they escape their crate. 17. **Take your dog to a pet relief station before you board.** Most airports have a pet relief station where you can take your dog to go to the bathroom. 10 to 15 minutes before you board your flight, take your dog so that they can use the restroom before a long flight. You can also use this area to give your dog a few minutes of exercise before you board your flight. 18. **Offer your dog water at least once per hour if they're in the cabin.** Dogs get more dehydrated when they are stressed. Be sure to take some water and a small dish on the plane with you and offer your dog water as often as you can. Open their crate slightly to fit their dish. Bring an empty water bottle with you in your carry-on and fill it up after you go through security to take water onto the plane with you. 19. **Put a dish of dog food into your dog’s crate.** Your dog might get hungry during your flight. Keep a small dish of dry dog food in their crate so that they can eat if they want to. They may be too stressed to eat, but it’s always good to give them the option. 20. **Consider taking your dog in the car instead of a plane.** Taking your dog on a plane is stressful for them and can even be dangerous for breeds with flat faces, like pugs and bulldogs. Take your dog on a car ride or leave them at a dog boarder whenever possible.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Travel-a-Long-Distance-with-a-Dog", "language": "en"}

How to Groom a Siberian Husky

Your Siberian Husky’s thick coat not only looks beautiful, it also keeps them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. But you should never have the undercoat of your Husky manually removed or shave her fur. Instead, the secret to keeping your Siberian Husky clean and comfortable is regular grooming and upkeep of her beautiful coat. 1. **Buy an undercoat rake.** An undercoat rake is a rake with long teeth set widely apart. It is designed to move past the outer guard hairs on your Husky’s coat and get down to the loose undercoat hairs. Look for undercoat rakes at your local pet supply store. 2. **Get a slicker brush.** This is a brush with a slanted head containing fine metal pins set in a rubber cushion. You can purchase a slicker brush from your local pet supply store. The slicker brush will pull dead hairs from your Husky’s outer coat and detangle any mats in her undercoat. It also stimulates your dog’s skin and removes dander or dead cells from her skin. The cushion will protect your dog’s skin from pressure during brushing. 3. **Buy a Furminator.** A Furminator is a special grooming brush. Though not required, a Furminator brush will make grooming you Husky less time consuming. Only use a Furminator that is meant for longer dog coats, as a short coat Furminator will damage the longer coat of your Husky. 4. **Invest in a good vacuum.** This is a must for any Husky dog owner. Look for a high quality vacuum like a Dyson, with an animal attachment. Though a good vacuum can be expensive, they should last you for a very long time and will help you rid your home of dog hair. A vacuum will also be essential for cleaning up after a grooming session. 5. **Gather your other supplies.** In addition to the specialty grooming supplies mentioned above, you will also need basic supplies like: Organic dog shampoo. Lots of towels. A portable hair dryer or a large blower. A small pair of scissors. Nail clippers. Dog treats to reward your Husky after the grooming session. 6. **Bathe your Husky no more than twice a year, unless she is very filthy or has fleas.** Huskies do not have a very oily coat so they do not have that usual doggy odor. Bathing your Husky too often will cause her fur and skin to dry out and turn dull. Most Huskies will take a “snow bathe” in the winter. They flip over onto their backs and wiggle and roll around in the snow. So Mother Nature helps them stay clean! 7. **Use the Furminator brush to loosen and rake out your dog’s undercoat before you bathe her.** Only do a few light passes over her coat with this brush. Avoid over grooming with a Furminator brush as it can damage the guard hairs in her coat. It is difficult to brush a Husky’s undercoat when its wet. As well, a wet matted undercoat does not dry well and can cause your Husky to get skin rashes or hot spots. So its important to give your pup a light brush before you start the bath. 8. **Place your Husky in your bathtub.** Lay a screen over your drain to catch the loose hairs from your dog’s coat. Otherwise you will end up with a clogged drain. Have lots of towels nearby to wipe up any puddles or splashes. Some owners prefer to take their Husky to a grooming shop to be bathed and blow dried. But it can be expensive to pay for a groomer to wash a large double coated dog like a Husky. You can also opt for a happy medium and take your Husky to a You Wash It shop. The shop supplies big washing sinks and blowers, and you supply the Husky, the shampoo, and the towels. It’s less expensive than the groomers and you have access to special equipment to get the job done. 9. **Wet your dog’s coat with warm water.** Wet her head as well. Be sure to tilt back her head so water does not get in her eyes. Avoid getting water in her ears. Make sure the water isn't too hot that it hurts your dog 10. **Apply an organic dog shampoo in circles against her wet coat.** Huskies do not require special conditioning shampoos, as their hair is not long enough to get any major tangles. Look for an organic shampoo that will be gentle and soft on your dog’s coat. You can also apply an oatmeal conditioner to your Husky’s coat if it looks a little dull or ratty. The oatmeal will also soothe any itchy spots or hot spots on your dog’s coat. Be sure to also clean the inner surface of your dog’s ears, using a cotton ball soaked in mineral oil, to prevent ear mites. 11. **Rinse off the shampoo.** Make sure you get as much of the soap out of her coat as possible. You may need to rinse her coat several times. 12. **Towel off and blow dry your dog.** Give your wet Husky a light towel off. Set the blow dryer on cool air and blow dry her coat. Be prepared for lots of flying hair from your Husky’s clean coat. If possible, have a vacuum nearby. 13. **Brush the dog’s coat with the undercoat rake.** Once your dog’s coat is completely dry, brush it to remove any dead fur released during the bath. You can also use a slicker brush to brush out your dog’s coat. 14. **Set up a grooming station.** Place a sturdy table that is at least 48 inches long in an open space, like a garage or a driveway. Like more dogs, Huskies tend to fidget when they are groomed, so the extra length of the table keeps them from sliding off. You can also put the Husky on a counter top or workshop table in your garage if you don't have access to a 48 inch long table. Attach a neck loop to a pole on one side of the table. You can tie a stripe of cloth or soft fabric to the pole to make the neck loop. If you can find a neck loop with an adjustable arm (available at most pet stores), this is a better option as you can adjust the neck loop so your Husky can relax her head as you groom her. Never adjust the neck loop so high that your husky is forced to hold his head up. Attach another pole to the opposite end of the table. Then, attach a longer neck loop or a white rope to the pole. This will serve as a hip loop to keep your Husky still as you groom them. If you have someone else who can assist you as you groom and hold your Husky still at the hips, you may not need a hip loop attachment. 15. **Place your clean, dry Husky on the table.** Loop the neck hold over her head so it sits comfortably around her neck. Then, loop the hip loop over her hips to keep her in place. 16. **Trim the hairs on your dog’s toes with the scissors.** Then, trim the hairs growing between the pads on the undersides of her feet so her feet appear neat and clean. 17. **Clip your dog’s toenails.** Knowing where to trim your dog’s nails takes some practice and skill. If your dog has clear nails, look for the live quick, which will be pink. Cut the nail no closer than 2 millimeters from the quick or the flesh under your dog's nail. If your dog has dark nails, avoid cutting to the quick by trimming one little sliver of nail at a time, starting with the tip. As you cut slices off your dog’s nail, look at the edge of the cut nail. Once you start to see a gray or pink oval, stop trimming. Most dogs dislike getting their toenails trimmed. It helps to prepare your pup by making sure she is comfortable with you touching her paws. A few tasty dog treats will also help keep her calm and still. 18. **Wipe your dog’s eyes with a moist towel.** This will keep her eyes clean and free of dirty. If your dog has constant eye discharge, bring this to the attention of your vet. If your Husky’s eyelashes are interfering with her eyes, your vet can trim them for you. 19. **Never clip your Husky’s whiskers.** They act as sensory devices for your dog, as they vibrate to warn your dog when she comes into contact with a solid object or surface. 20. **Inspect your dog’s coat for fleas.** Use a fine tooth metal flea comb to gently part the hairs in her coat. Look for small black or brown dots. Dip the comb in a glass of hot water periodically to drown any fleas that end up on the comb. If you discover a large amount of fleas in your dog’s coat, you may need to look at How to Get Rid of Fleas. 21. **Blow dry your dog’s coat.** Give your Husky a few reassuring pets and then use the hair dryer or the blower on her coat. Use the cool air setting on the blow dryer. Start from her front paw and work your way up and across the coat. Point the blower nozzle or the blow dryer head straight into her coat, so you can see skin in the center. If the hair looks like a smooth flat circle all the way around, with no fuzziness to the hair, you don’t need to blow dry your dog’s coat anymore as there is no extra hair in her undercoat to remove. If there are any fuzzy or clumpy areas on your dog’s coat, you will need to blow them out. Hold the undercoat rake in one hand and the blower in the other hand. Point the blower or hair dryer at the skin and bring the rake to the bottom half of the circle it creates. The visible bit of skin will be the center of the circle. Groom downward, with a light grip. Brush lightly, and don’t pull or tug at the hair. Avoid grooming in one spot for too long. Move around your dog’s body and work on different spots. With this method, you should be able to groom a full coat in less than an hour. The blower helps you to get directly to the undercoat and brush it well. Once you have finished blowing your dog’s hair, you should be able to back comb or back brush her hair smoothly and easily. You should also be able to run your fingers through your dog’s coat and not feel any unevenness or lumps. 22. **Let your Husky shed her coat naturally.** By nature, Siberians are very clean dogs and will clean themselves on a daily basis. They also shed their entire undercoat least once a year, called “blowing the coat.” This process can last up to six weeks from start to finish. Your job, as an owner, is to clean up after your Husky’s shedding and brush out her coat to encourage shedding and strong hair re-growth. Though your Husky may appear hot during the summer in her thick coat, never shave or over groom them. Her coat is designed to keep her cool in the summer. Her undercoat insulates her and her top coat provides protection from harmful UV rays, so it should never be cut short. 23. **Use a shedding brush once a week on your dog’s coat.** These consist of a hoop made of metal attached to a plastic handle. It’s a must have tool to upkeep your Husky’s coat and make sure it looks its best. With swift, light side to side motions, run the shedding brush over your Husky’s coat. It helps to have a second person close by with a vacuum as you groom your Husky with the shedding brush. This will prevent hair from flying all over the place and keep hair off your furniture and your carpet.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Groom-a-Siberian-Husky", "language": "en"}

How to Make Rainbow Jello

The next time you’re looking for a unique dessert idea, try making your own edible Jello rainbow. While the process is a little time-consuming, it couldn’t be simpler, and the finished product makes a fun, vibrant treat for kids and adults alike. All you have to do is layer different colors of Jello in a baking dish, wait for it all to set, then cut it into squares and watch your guests’ faces light up! 1. **Pick up several boxes of Jello in multiple colors.** To make a true rainbow, you’ll need one 3 oz (85 g) box each of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple Jello. However, you’re free to use any colors in whatever order you want. You may need to double or triple the amount of Jello you buy and use a larger serving dish if you plan on preparing the dessert for a large crowd. Alternatively, you could scale down the recipe by using only a portion of each box of Jello. Rainbow Jello isn’t just a dazzling, delicious dessert—it’s cheap, too. All in all, this recipe shouldn’t cost you more than a few dollars! 2. **Bring a kettle of water to a low boil.** Fill your kettle with water and set it on the stove over medium-high heat. While it’s warming up, you can begin unboxing your Jello and gathering the other tools and utensils you’ll be using. Jello dissolves and sets best when you use boiling water. However, you can also simply run some hot water from your tap if you don’t feel like waiting for it to boil. 3. **Pour your first color of Jello into a medium-sized mixing bowl.** Tear open the packet and shake the powder out into the bottom of the bowl. For a realistic-looking rainbow, you’ll want to start with either red or purple Jello and work your way through the color spectrum from there. Make sure the bowl you’re using is roomy enough to hold 2 cups (470 mL) of water along with the Jello powder. This will allow you to mix your ingredients more easily. 4. **Add 1 cup (240 mL) of boiling water and stir.** Use a spoon or whisk to thoroughly mix the Jello powder into the hot water. As you stir, the powder will dissolve and form a thin, colorful liquid. Check to confirm that there are no bubbles, lumps, or dry pockets in your liquid Jello mix. Pour your hot water into a liquid measuring cup before adding it your mixing bowl to make sure you’re using just the right amount. Let the hot Jello mixture sit for 3-5 minutes to cool slightly before you continue. 5. **Stir in an additional ⁄4–1 cup (180–240 mL) of cold water.** As you add the cold water, the liquid jello mix will begin to thicken somewhat. Keep stirring the mixture until the second cup of water has been completely incorporated. Adding a few ice cubes to your cold water can help the Jello begin setting faster. If you decide to do this, make sure you only use ⁄4 cup (180 mL) of water to account for the extra volume. Be careful not to incorporate too much water, as this could affect both the flavor and texture of your finished Jello. 6. **Transfer the liquid Jello to a casserole dish or walled baking pan.** Pour the mixture into the dish slowly to avoid making a mess. This will be the first layer of Jello in your rainbow. For best results, choose a dish that’s around 9 in (23 cm) x 13 in (33 cm), which will allow each layer to come out about ⁄2–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) thick. You could also pour your Jello into drinking glasses, parfait cups, or other small containers to make single-serving treats that don’t require cutting. For this recipe, you'd most likely need 12-15 individual containers. Be sure to grab a clean mixing bowl or rinse out the one you used before starting your next flavor to prevent your colors from bleeding into one another. 7. **Chill the first layer of Jello in the refrigerator for 25-30 minutes.** Slide your casserole dish or baking pan onto one of the upper shelves in your refrigerator where you’ll be able to keep an eye on it. Make sure the shelf you pick out is perfectly flat so the Jello sets in an even layer. There’s no need to wait for your Jello to set completely—you just want to leave it in long enough to let it solidify to the point where you can add another layer without the colors mingling. If the shelf you use is crooked, your Jello layers may come out thicker on one end than the other, which could throw off the look of your rainbow. 8. **Spread whipped topping between the layers if you want to add contrast.** If you like, you can spoon 2–3 cups (470–710 mL) of whipped cream onto each layer of Jello after it sets. This will make the colors in your Jello rainbow pop even more and give it an extra sweet, creamy finish. For the sake of efficiency, use a tub of whipped topping rather than a spray can, which will take longer to apply evenly. Another option is to use plain, unflavored gelatin to make thin white layers that blend better with the Jello. Mix 2 oz (56 g) of gelatin with ⁄2 cup (120 mL) of sweetened condensed milk, ⁄2 cup (120 mL) of hot water, and ⁄2 cup (120 mL) of cold water to make a single layer. Allow each layer to set for 20-30 minutes before adding your next color. 9. **Repeat the process with your other Jello colors.** Once your first layer has had time to firm up, mix up your next color and pour it into your dish directly on top of your first color or layer of whipped topping. You’ll do this for each color you want to include. Don’t forget to alternate with your whipped topping or plain white gelatin if you’ve decided to separate your layers. To save time, start mixing your next color of Jello while the previous layer is chilling in the refrigerator. You can make as few or as many layers as you like. A full rainbow will have 6 uniform layers, but you could stack up as many as a dozen, as long as you have a big enough dish, or stick to the primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) to keep things simple. 10. **Place your rainbow Jello in the refrigerator 2-3 hours to finish setting.** After you’ve assembled all of your layers, cover the dish with a piece of plastic wrap and stick it back in the refrigerator one last time. This time, let your Jello sit for the full amount of time specified in the directions. You also have the option of simply leaving your finished Jello rainbow in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it, since you’ll need to keep it cool anyway. 11. **Cut your rainbow Jello into squares before serving it.** Use a table knife to carefully slice the single sheet of Jello into precise squares. Aim to make each square the same size so you won’t be left with any thin slivers or oddly-shaped pieces. Enjoy! If you’re serving bigger kids and adults, measure your squares to be about 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) apiece. For smaller children, 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) servings should be plenty. Cover your leftover Jello and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay good for a week or longer.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Rainbow-Jello", "language": "en"}

How to Make a Fake Hand

Whether you need a simple idea for a science project or a prop for your next Halloween party, you can't go wrong with a fake hand. Teach younger kids how a hand works by constructing one from a paper plate and using straws and string as bones and tendons, or sculpt a hand from clay with older children who can safely handle sharper tools and hot ovens. 1. **Choose material for the hand.** Use a paper plate or thick paper that is sturdy enough to support the materials you will be adding. A paper plate works best because they are designed to hold food and be supportive, like a hand! 2. **Trace your hand on a paper plate.** Place the paper plate on a flat surface, facing up as if you were about to put some food on it. Put your hand in the center of the plate, palm facing down and fingers spread out. Trace your whole hand with a pencil. Make sure you hold your hand steady. Stand up and put pressure on your hand so it is less likely to scoot around on the table. Tape your plate to the table to keep it in place. Make sure your fingers are spaced out 1/2 an inch to 1 inch so you have space to trace them and so they can wiggle once you cut out your hand. Use a pencil so you can erase mistakes and any visible lines that are left once you cut the hand from your plate. 3. **Cut out your fake hand.** Follow your outline the best you can. Start at the bottom of your fake hand and work your way up towards the thumb, over the fingers, and then back down along the pinkie side of your hand. 4. **Cut plastic straws into pieces.** For each hand, cut 19 pieces at a length of 1-2 inches. These will help your hand bend and come to life. Cut the ends at a slight angle or straight across, according to your preference. 5. **Cut a small "v" in the middle of each straw.** Hold the straw between your thumb and index finger. Use your scissors to cut a tiny "v" halfway through the middle so they can bend. 6. **Mark your joints.** Use a pencil to mark on each finger of the plate where a joint should be. Study your own hand to judge where to mark. Also mark a line extending about an inch above where your the bottom of your thumb connects with your palm to roughly an inch below where your pinkie connects. 7. **Glue your straw pieces to the hand.** Place three straw pieces on each finger: two between each joint and one between the last joint and your fingertip. Place two on the thumb: one between the two joints and another between the last joint and the thumb's tip. Place five more along the line across the palm. Keep the straw pieces separated from each other in the fingers and thumb. If you don't have enough room to do the same with the straw pieces in the palm, allow them to touch end to end. 8. **Pause here.** Allow the glue to dry. Let it sit for about thirty minutes. 9. **Thread string through the straw pieces in each finger.** Secure the string at the tip of each finger with a piece of tape. Thread it through the straws to the wrist. Go about four inches past the wrist before cutting the string to make sure you have enough. 10. **Test your strings!** Pull gently on each one to make sure each finger works. If they do, pull them all at the same time for full effect! Put a latex glove on it and stuff it with tissues to make a more lifelike hand. 11. **Roll a lump of clay into a cylinder.** Use enough clay to form a cylinder that’s roughly as big as the sized hand you wish to make. Round both ends so there are no sharp edges. Then flatten the clay slightly, using your fingers or a rolling pin. Smooth the clay until it’s the desired thickness for your fake hand. 12. **Form the thumb and wrist.** Picture your clay as a hand facing you with its palm up and all of its fingers straight and pressed together, including the thumb. Gently pull enough clay from one side to indicate a thumb without detaching it from the rest of the clay. Next, form the wrist. Indent the clay below the ball of its thumb, along the bottom of its palm. 13. **Indent the palm.** Use your fingers or a small cylindrical object (pencil, paintbrush handle, etc.) to indent the clay along its thumb. Lay your tool lengthwise along the top of the clay, angled toward the wrist, with the tip of your tool roughly centered in the middle of the palm. Gently roll or worm it to form an impression. Imagine your clay is a clock and your tool as the hour hand. If you’re making a left hand, the hour should read 10:30. If you’re making a right hand, it should read 1:30. 14. **Separate the thumb.** Pull more clay from the rest of the hand and then detach the thumb, leaving its base attached, just like a real thumb spreading out from its hand. Round it into the shape of a thumb. 15. **Indent the palm again.** This time, lay your tool across the palm where the base of the fingers will join. Also indent along the thumb and wrist as before to redefine the impressions. 16. **Separate the fingers.** Use a scalpel to cut between each finger, leaving the base of each attached to the palm. Trim the top of each finger to taper them. Remember: the middle finger is longest, the pinkie is shortest, and the ring and index fingers are roughly the same size. 17. **Separate the fingers further.** Pass a needle up and down each cut between the fingers to spread them further apart. Go slowly and gently; this step is delicate. Depending on how large your sculpture is, switch to a larger tool once there’s enough room for it to fit between the fingers. 18. **Form the fingers.** Gently roll each between your own fingers to round them. Pay attention to the thickness of each so that no one finger is too thin or too thick. If needed, stretch them out to lengthen them. Then trim the excess and round the fingertips. Use a thin cylindrical tool (like a needle or the tip of paintbrush handle, depending on the size of your sculpture) to sculpt between the base of the fingers if your own fingers are too big to get in there. 19. **Indent the fingers’ joints.** Use a small, thin cylindrical object to form a very light impression for each joint in the fingers. Be careful not to make too sharp of an indent; the smaller your sculpture, the more likely your finger will break here if the indent is too sharp. 20. **Form the knuckles.** Flip your fake hand over to work on its back. Add small balls of clay to the base of each finger. Smooth them into place until they’re seamless. 21. **Finish the wrist.** Continue the indent for the wrist along the back of the hand to mirror the front. Then slice a thin layer of clay from the back of the hand just above the wrist to create a more contoured effect. 22. **Double-check your work.** Trim and smooth the clay where needed. If too much has been trimmed or smoothed, apply a dab of clay to repair the area. 23. **Add details.** Refer to your own hand to study the lines in your palm. Use a needle to lightly trace them in the palm of your sculpture. Flip the hand over and do the same for fingernails. 24. **Pose your hand.** Flex your own hand to see how your fingers and thumb work together in different poses. Gently bend your sculpture’s fingers to replicate. 25. **Bake your sculpture.** Follow the directions and recommendations listed on the clay’s packaging. Different types and/or brands of clay may have special instructions. 26. **Mix a batch of rubber mold.** Make enough to fill a container large enough to fit your entire hand. Choose a container that’s also large enough so that your hand does not come into contact with the container itself. Be sure that the brand of rubber mold you use is non-toxic and safe for human contact. 27. **Soak your hand in warm water.** Hold your thumb and fingers in the pose you wish to replicate. Then dip your entire hand into the mold, keeping it well away from the sides and bottom. Leave at least a half-inch of mold between your hand and the container. 28. **Allow the mold to set.** Keep your hand posed within the mold for however long your mold’s directions say it needs to set. Then, if needed, wiggle your thumb, fingers, and hand very gently to loosen them. Pull your hand out slowly. Avoid any quick, jerky movements that might disturb the cast you’ve just made. 29. **Mix a batch of plaster.** Prepare enough to fill the entire mold. Then pour a small amount (not all) of your plaster into the mold. Manipulate the container so that the plaster coats the insides of the finger- and thumb-holes in your mold. Allow the plaster to settle a bit to avoid the formation of air pockets. 30. **Pour the rest of your plaster.** Fill the entire mold. Then bang the table a few times to release any air pockets. Quit once you no longer see any bubbles bursting on the surface. 31. **Allow the plaster set.** Wait for the time indicated by the directions to your plaster. Then upend the container and empty it onto the table. Make cuts into the rubber mold with a plastic knife and peel it from the plaster cast, piece by piece. 32. **Clean the plaster cast.** Look for any imperfections where empty space in the rubber mold may have allowed room for extra plaster. Remove gently with sand paper or a small knife or file. Then either leave your finished cast as is or paint it as you desire.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Fake-Hand", "language": "en"}

How to Soak Oats

Soaked oats can turn boring and bland oatmeal into a delicious breakfast treat. Place your oats in the fridge the night before so they are ready to eat in the morning. Once your oats are soaked, they will require minimal preparation. All you need to add is a little milk and as many toppings as you like for an easy, hearty, and healthy meal. 1. **Find whole oats for a healthy option.** Cut oats often lose fatty acids and other nutrients while being stored. Pick whole oats if you are most interested in your oatmeal's health benefits. The fresh taste of whole oats can complement overnight oatmeal well. Whole oats must be rolled at home so don't choose this option unless you own an oat grinder. 2. **Buy rolled oats for preservation.** Rolled oats preserve the taste and nutrients in the oats. Before being stored, rolled oats are steamed and flattened into flakes. When soaked overnight, they absorb flavors easily. Rolled oats are easily found at most grocery stores, unlike whole oats. 3. **Pick steel cut oats for heartier oatmeal.** Steel cut oats are chopped up into small pieces before being stored. During the packaging process, they are neither steamed nor rolled. Their flavor is heartier and creamier than rolled or whole oats because they remain firm after absorbing water. 4. **Avoid purchasing quick or instant oats.** Although you can make soaked oats from quick or instant brands, they are most likely to taste mushy. Neither has nutritional value thanks to their cheap processing and added preservatives. They are the cheapest but also the least ideal option for overnight oatmeal. 5. **Combine oats, water, and lemon juice in a bowl.** The ratio between oats and water should be one to one. If you add one cup (8 oz) of oatmeal to your bowl, for example, you should match it with one cup (8 oz) of water. Add enough lemon juice to taste: in most cases, one tablespoon (0.5 oz) will suffice. Although fresh lemon juice tastes best, bottled lemon juice can work as a substitute. 6. **Add apple juice or apple cider vinegar for a sweeter taste (optional).** Add in the sweeter liquid one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired sweetness. Do not add enough liquid to submerge the oats. Add a minimal amount of vinegar to your oatmeal, as too much can make it taste tart. Because the oats will absorb the liquid, less is more. 7. **Mix in chia seeds for texture.** Most toppings will not be added until the oats have soaked overnight. Chia seeds, however, absorb liquid well and stay firm after soaking. For a thicker texture, pour in chia seeds one tablespoon (0.5 oz) at a time. 8. **Stir the mixture until the oats are slightly damp.** The oats should not be wet or submerged in water but damp. If you accidentally add too much water, slowly add oats until your mixture reaches a thicker texture. Stir in a little water at a time if your oats appear too dry. 9. **Cover the oats and soak them in the fridge for 12 hours.** Place a plastic wrap over your bowl of oats and place it in the fridge. Allow your oats to soak for at least twelve hours before serving. The longer your oats can soak, the more flavor they will absorb. Avoid keeping prepared oatmeal in the fridge for any longer than 5-7 days. Freezing is not recommended. 10. **Place the soaked oats in a saucepan.** Your oats are ready to cook immediately after they are finished soaking. Add 1/3 cup (2.67 oz) of milk to the saucepan to give your oats a creamier taste. Begin at a low stove setting and gradually increase to a medium setting as your oatmeal simmers. If your oatmeal begins to boil, your oatmeal is too hot. Turn the stove down to a lower setting. 11. **Stir the oatmeal as it thickens in the pot.** Cook your oats in the saucepan for at least four to six minutes. The oatmeal will continue thickening as long as you continue heating it. Taste the oatmeal as you cook so you know when you reach your ideal texture. 12. **Add toppings to your oatmeal.** Turn off the heat and place your oatmeal in bowls for serving. Fruit, jam, nut butter, yogurt, cinnamon, maple syrup, and nuts can all make tasty toppings. Lay out a topping bar for you and anyone else eating the oatmeal so they can add whatever toppings they like. 13. **Sweeten your oatmeal with sugar.** Soaked oats require more seasoning than other oatmeal to taste sweet. Use brown or raw sugar to sweeten your oatmeal, as it has a richer flavor than granulated sugar. Finish seasoning the oatmeal with a pinch of salt.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Soak-Oats", "language": "en"}

How to Cut a T‐shirt Cute

Looking for a way to give new life to an old t-shirt? Create a cute new design with a t-shirt you don’t wear as much anymore with just a few simple cuts with scissors. You can create a huge variety of cutout designs on the back, sleeves, and neckline of any common t-shirt. Learn a few of these cutting methods to do easily yourself! 1. **Cut your t-shirt into a crop top.** Simply cut off the bottom of a t-shirt to make it shorter if it is too long, or make it into a crop top length. Cut evenly all the way around the bottom of the shirt to accomplish this. Each t-shirt will be different depending on the size and how it fits on your own body. Cut away a smaller amount than you think you want, then try it on. Make additional cuts if you want it shorter, and keep trying it on to check the length. You can also create a pattern at the hem of your t-shirt, whether or not you cut it shorter for a crop top. Try cutting strips for a fringe hemline, or cut shapes like diamonds just above the hemline for a cute cutout look. 2. **Make a tank top or muscle tee.** Convert a t-shirt to a tank top or muscle tee. Cut along the armhole seams for a regular tank top, or further down the sides of the shirt for a wide-armed muscle tee look. You may also want to cut a wider neckline for a classic tank, but this is not necessary. For a muscle tee, you can cut in a straight or slightly angled line down from the shoulder to the side of the shirt. Try it on between cuts to make sure you like how much of the side is open. You can also cut all the way down through the bottom hemline of the shirt and tie the ends together at the bottom for a cute side-tie look. 3. **Create a wider neckline.** Cut off the collar of any t-shirt to make it wider or just get rid of the typical crew neckband. Remember to cut less at first, then try it on to check the neckline before cutting any more. To make sure the front and back of your neckline are symmetrical, fold the shirt so that the shoulder seams line up and the neckband is folded evenly on itself. Then cut below the band, following the original curve of it. Create a v-neck neckline by folding the shirt in the same way with the shoulder seams lined up. Then use a diagonal cut for the front part of the shirt so that it ends in a point instead of a curve. 4. **Cut slits into the sides or back.** Make “fish gills” in the sides of a shirt by simply cutting even horizontal strips down each side. Or create the same effect by making the strips down the back of the shirt instead. Stretch out the slits after cutting to make the fabric relax and roll up slightly. Anywhere you create slits will provide some extra stretch in the fabric, which is a great way to make a too-small t-shirt fit a little better. You can also make slits vertically just to the inside of the front or back of your neckline to create more interest and stretch in those areas as well. 5. **Make shoulder cutouts.** Create an easy peek-a-boo shoulder by simply cutting a half-circle out of each arm of the t-shirt. This will create a round cutout shape on the shoulders when worn. Lay the t-shirt flat and find where the shoulder seams meet with the armhole seams. This is where you will make a cut on each side. Cut a piece out of one shoulder, then save the piece you cut away and lay it on the other shoulder to use as a guide. This will ensure both sides look even. 6. **Cut vertical slits along the collar for a neckline weave.** Cut small slits all the way around below the collar band of a t-shirt to create a woven pattern. Make sure the cuts are evenly spaced and perpendicular to the neckline. The slits should be about 2 inches (5 cm) long. Make the first slit where you want to start half as long as the rest, as it will begin to open up into a hole during this process. The slits should be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) away from one another, but this measurement does not need to be exact. When you’re done cutting, stretch out the fabric on either side of where you cut to make it easier to manipulate. 7. **Pull the second piece of fabric through the first.** Pick up the piece of fabric between the first two cuts you made. Pull the second piece of fabric under and over the first piece, creating a loop. Start where you made your smaller cut. Your first slit will be pulled open into more of a hole by the weaving process, so it’s best to start with a smaller slit if possible. To create more of a braided look, pull the second piece of fabric under the first, then twist it once before moving onto the next step. 8. **Weave each piece through the loop before it.** Take the third piece of fabric and pull it under and up over the loop you created with the first two pieces. Continue pulling the next piece through the current loop until you’ve reached the end. Remember to twist each loop once before you pull the next piece through it to create more of a braided look if you choose to do so. When you reach the end and you have a final loop with nothing to pull through it, cut the loop in half. Tie the pieces securely to the end of your weaved fabric to secure it. Trim the ends carefully if they are too long. 9. **Weave the sides or back of your t-shirt.** Choose to create a woven pattern on the sides or back of your t-shirt. Cut slits and use the same method of pulling one piece under and over the previous piece to create the pattern. If you weave the sides, make sure you lay the t-shirt flat, with the fabric folded evenly along each side before cutting. If you weave the back, pick up the t-shirt and fold it in the opposite way, so that the armholes line up and the side seams meet before you cut the back. You can create a more open back with several lines of weaving by cutting longer slits all the way across the back. Or, create two different "strips" of slits down the back. 10. **Cut a slit in each shoulder for bow sleeves.** Cut a 2.5-inch slit in each shoulder of your t-shirt. Lay the shirt flat and cut down from the shoulder along each arm seam to create a 5 inch total cut when unfolded. Cut away the arm seam if you find that the inside of it shows after making your slit cut. You may also cut a wider V-shape instead of just a slit if you want more skin to show on the shoulder. However, the more fabric you leave, the more gathered and pronounced the final bow shape will be. 11. **Cut pieces from the bottom of the shirt for ties.** Cut all the way around the bottom of the t-shirt to create one long strip. Cut this strip into smaller pieces and tie the end of each sleeve to create a bow shape. Cut two 2.5 inch pieces from your long bottom strip to use as ties. You can make the strips longer if you wish to wrap them around several times to create a thicker middle to your bow. Gather together the fabric at the end of your sleeve below the slit you made. Tie tightly with one of your fabric strips. Make sure you tie the piece in the middle of each sleeve, so it makes an even fanned-out bow shape from the fabric on either side of your shoulder slits. 12. **Cut out the neck first for a bow-back shirt.** Cut away from the neckline at the back of your shirt, about 4 inches from the top to create a wider U-shape. Then cut out about a 4 by 2-inch strip from the excess material to use as a tie later. The lower you cut the back of the neckline, the lower on your back the bow will be. You can always adjust this cut to be lower later, so cut less to begin. 13. **Make a slit across the back and gather towards the top.** Make a cut all the way across the back of the shirt, 6 inches down from each armpit. Gather the fabric between this cut and the neckline and tie with your fabric strip to create the bow. Make sure to start and end your back cut just inside the side seams of your shirt. Otherwise, the cut can grow wider around the sides of the shirt. Tie the bow together securely at the center of the gathered fabric with the scrap that you cut from the neckline piece. Wrap the piece around several times if the fabric allows.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-a-T%E2%80%90shirt-Cute", "language": "en"}

How to Clean Straw Hats

If you’ve never cleaned a straw hat before, you may be perplexed on how you might start. This makes sense. Straw hats are stylish, but they can also be ruined with improper treatment. However, cleaning them when they are dirty and keeping them that way should not overwhelm you. Depending on what type of straw hat you have, there are concrete methods you have at your fingertips to keep them spotless, shiny, and stain-free! 1. **Make sure it can be cleaned.** Look to see if the hat has a label of some sort. You might be able to find this under the brim. Once you find it, see if your hat is made up of baku, shantung, or any other material that can be washed with water. It is possible to have a straw hat that cannot be hand-washed. This probably will not be the case. 2. **Remove any extras.** Sometimes straw hats will have bands, ribbons, or other decorative pieces on them. If possible, you will want to remove these extra pieces. Don’t do this if the decorations are interwoven into the hat! Cleaning the ribbon isn’t difficult! You can dust and hand-wash it. Use a brush to lightly dust away anything that has ended up on the cloth. Also, you can spot clean the ribbon with a wet cloth. After you clean or dust the ribbon, you should use a small amount of steam to freshen it up. You might also try using an iron on a medium setting to go over the ribbon. 3. **Brush the hat.** The hat will probably have excess dirt and dust on it. So, you should use a soft bristle brush to scrub that dust and dirt away. You can generally find these at hardware and beauty supply stores. Gently brush the grime off. You don’t want to be too rough, because you can end up harming the fabric of the hat. 4. **Vacuum an extremely dusty hat.** For an incredibly dusty hat, you may need an extreme solution. You can try placing netting or pantyhose over a vacuum brush, then using a vacuum on the hat. Again, this should only be used in extreme cases. 5. **Clean the hat with a peroxide solution.** Combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and warm water in a bowl or bottle. Then, you should either spray a soft cleaning cloth with the bottle, or dip a cloth in the bowl. Don’t use a colored cloth because its dye will bleed into your hat. Test a small area of the hat with the solution to make sure it does not damage the hat. Once this has been verified, begin wiping the hat with the cloth. Swipe off as much dirt and grime as possible. Make sure that your cloth is damp, but not soaked. You don’t want to get your hat extremely wet. 6. **Clean the hat with soap solution.** Combine a tablespoon of dish soap with a cup of hot water in a bowl or bottle. As you did before, dip your cloth in the bowl or spray your cloth with the bottle. Again, verify that the solution will not ruin your hat by placing a small amount on your hat. Rub the cloth in a circular motion to remove the dirt. 7. **Rinse and dry the hat.** While most straw hats should not be rinsed, this is a good option if the hat's label clearly says that it is OK to submerge it in water. Fill a bowl with warm water. Dip a cloth in the bowl, take it out, and run it over the entire hat. Put the hat in a cool place, preferably under a shadow, to let it dry. If your hat’s brim is curved, do not lay it on a flat surface. 8. **Remove oil stains.** Pour a small amount of talcum powder on the stained spot. Wait for an hour or two for the powder to soak up the oil. Use a vacuum or brush to remove the powder. 9. **Remove sweat stains.** Whenever you sweat, you should immediate wipe the area with a damp white cloth. This will keep the salt from your perspiration from seeping into your hat. On dark straw hats, you should use ammonia to get rid of these stains. Mix half a teaspoon of ammonia with half a teaspoon of water in a bowl. Then, dip a small brush into the water mixture and use it to go over the stained area. With a light straw hat, you can use a hydrogen peroxide and water mixture. Combine a half teaspoon of each in a bowl. Just take a brush, dip it in the mixture, and lightly scrub the sweat-stained area. Wait for the area to dry before wearing the hat again. 10. **Remove scuffs.** Using an art gum eraser, lightly rub scuffed spots. The gum should make the scuffs disappear. 11. **Keep your hat dry.** Straw hats can seem more durable than they actually are. However, wetness and dampness can misshape the hat. This means that when your hat gets wet, you should attempt to dry it as quickly as possible. Try to put water repellent on your hat every now and then. Not only will this keep your hat safe from water damage, but it will protect it from stains as well. When you’re not wearing your hat, place it in a dark, dry area. Put a hat with a curved brim on a mannequin head to keep its shape. You can also simply the tilt the hat upside down and store it in a hat box. Don’t let your hat get too hot! If your hat is exposed to direct sunlight for a long time, then the straw can be damaged. The heat will make the straw rigid or cause the synthetic material to melt. 12. **Handle your hat carefully.** You want to make sure that your hands are clean before you touch your hat. This is an easy way to prevent your hat from getting dirt and oil on it. When you are taking off your hat, try to hold on to the brim. Too much contact with the crown of the hat can destroy the fibers. 13. **Brighten your hat.** Sometimes the straws in your hat can become discolored. To refresh the colors, wipe your hat with cloth dipped in alcohol and water. After you do this, use a piece of black or red velvet to polish the hat.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Straw-Hats", "language": "en"}

How to Extend a Candle Wick

We've all been there—you go to light your favorite candle, only to find that the wick is covered in wax. But don't throw out that candle just yet! If you can still see the wick but it's too short to light, try adding a makeshift paper or wooden wick to burn off some of the wax. If the wick is completely covered with wax, replace the wick to save your candle! 1. **Dig out the wick if it's covered in a little wax.** If the wick is buried just under the surface of the wax, use a spoon or a butter knife to carefully scrape away the wax until the wick is exposed. You could also use a lighter or a hair dryer to melt the wax—just pour the excess wax into a separate heat-safe container. The new wick needs to sit right beside the old one, which is why it's important to dig the existing wick out from underneath the wax. Don't just try to dig a deep enough hole to burn the wick—the candle will just burn down in a tunnel, and the wax will eventually drown the wick again. 2. **Melt some candle wax in a wax warmer or double boiler.** The easiest way to melt wax is to put it in a wax warmer, but if you don't have one, set up a double-boiler—fill one pot with water and put it on to boil, then sit a metal bowl or another pot inside the first one so it's just touching the boiling water. Place the wax inside the second bowl and stir it frequently until it melts. Use the wax you scraped or melted out of your candle, or scrape some wax out of another old candle if you have one on hand. No matter which type of wick you're making, it's best to dip it in wax first. This will help it burn more slowly and evenly. 3. **Make a paper wick if you just need a little extra length.** For a quick way to fix a short wick, take a scrap of paper and roll it up tightly. Choose a thicker paper, like notebook or copy paper, since it will burn more slowly. You can even use toilet paper or a paper towel if that's all you have on hand. However, avoid using colored paper or a page from a magazine—the fumes from the ink can be toxic. You'll only need the wick to be about ⁄4–⁄2 in (0.64–1.27 cm), but it's okay to roll it longer if it's easier. You can trim it down later. 4. **Opt for a wooden wick if the old wick is very short.** If your wick is just barely sticking up, you'll need a sturdier wooden wick so you can push it deeper down into the wax. Use a toothpick, matchstick, wooden skewer—whatever thin piece of wood you have on hand. You can also cut a popsicle stick lengthwise into halves or thirds to use as a wick, if you'd like. 5. **Use tweezers to dip the wick into the melted wax.** Carefully lower your paper or wooden wick into the bowl with your melted wax. Use the tweezers to turn the wick back and forth, ensuring it's completely coated. If you're using a paper wick, keep a grip on it with the tweezers so it doesn't come unrolled. Once the wick is coated in the wax, remove it and let it cool for about 5 minutes or until the wax hardens. 6. **Use a lighter or hair dryer to soften the surface of the candle.** You don't have to melt the wax all the way. Just heat it up a little so the wax starts to soften. This will make it easier to push the wick into the candle. 7. **Press the wick into the candle wax.** If you're using a paper wick, wrap it around the existing wick, then gently press just the very bottom into the softened wax. If you have a wooden wick, place it beside the old wick and push it deep down into the candle. If you need help pushing the wooden wick into the candle, try tapping it lightly with a mallet or hammer. Use sharp shears to trim the wick so it's only about ⁄4 in (0.64 cm) long. 8. **Light the wick, then pour off the wax once it melts.** Try to let your new wick burn long enough for the wax to melt all the way across the surface of the candle. Then, pour the melted wax into the same container you used to melt your wax earlier. Keep doing that until the old wick is long enough to use again! Using the same wax container will make cleanup easier! Just let the wax cool until it hardens, then scrape it out of the bowl or pot. If you'd like, save the wax to use in a wax warmer or another project—or simply toss it in the trash if you don't think you'll use it again. 9. **Melt a little wax in a double boiler.** If you have a dedicated double boiler, use that. If you don't, it's easy to make your own! You'll either need 2 pots or a pot and a metal bowl—either way, the second pot or bowl should rest on the sides of the first pot without touching the bottom. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a boil, then place the wax in the second pot or bowl and stir it frequently until it melts. Make sure the pot or bowl doesn't touch the bottom of the first pot. If it does, the wax will scorch! Scrape some of the wax out of the candle you're replacing, use another old candle, or melt a small tealight or taper candle. You don't need much—just enough to coat the wick. 10. **Dip 100% cotton cord into the melted wax.** Cut a length of cord that's at least 2–3 in (5.1–7.6 cm) longer than the height of your candle jar. Use tweezers or tongs to carefully place the cord into the wax. Hold it there for about 30 seconds, stirring it around with the tweezers to ensure it's completely saturated with the wax. Cord is typically thicker than string, so it will burn more slowly. Butcher's twine is a good option for this—it's about 2mm in diameter and is already braided. If all you have is string, try braiding 3 strands together to create a thicker cord. The wax will help the cord burn slowly and evenly. 11. **Allow the cord to dry completely.** Remove the cord from the wax and stretch it out so it's completely straight. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the wax is dry and the cord feels stiff. If you need to, cut the cord into shorter lengths once it's dry. 12. **Place the candle inside your double boiler to melt the wax.** Carefully lower the candle jar into your double-boiler. Let it sit there for about 10-15 minutes, or until the wax starts to soften. You can also use your oven to melt the wax, if you prefer. Place your candle upside-down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then put it in an oven that's been heated to 180 °F (82 °C) for about 15 minutes. 13. **Remove the wax from the candle and place it in the double boiler.** Once the wax is soft enough, use a butter knife to scoop it out of the jar. Then, place the wax inside the bowl or pot you were using until it melts completely. If you melted the wax in the oven, carefully pour it from the sheet pan into the double-boiler to keep it warm until you're ready to use it again. 14. **Thread the new wick through the metal-bottom.** Use tweezers to carefully grab the old wick and metal-bottom (the metal piece that holds the wick in place) from the melted wax. Then, squeeze the top of the metal piece with needle-nose pliers to open it. Pull out the old wick and discard it, then thread the new wick through the same hole and pinch it closed again with the pliers. If you don't want to reuse the metal-bottom, use hot glue to attach your new wick to the bottom of your candle container. 15. **Use a stick to center the new wick in the candle.** Wrap the loose end of the wick around a pencil or popsicle stick, then drop the other end into the bottom of the candle container. Make sure the metal-bottom is laying flat on the bottom of the candle jar. Rest the pencil or stick across the mouth of the container—this will ensure the wick stays centered as the candle hardens. 16. **Pour the melted wax back into the candle jar.** Grab a couple of pot holders, then carefully pour the melted wax back into its original container. Be sure not to bump the wick as you do this—you want it to stay perfectly in the middle of the jar! Be very careful so you don't burn yourself on the hot bowl or wax. 17. **Let the wax cool until it's completely hardened.** For the best results, give your candle at least 3 days to cure before you light it again. However, some candle experts recommend letting the candle cure for at least 1-2 weeks. Once the candle has fully cured, trim the wick to ⁄8–⁄4 in (0.32–0.64 cm) before you light it.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Extend-a-Candle-Wick", "language": "en"}

How to Fold a T Shirt

Folding your T-shirts can seem like a laborious and time-consuming task, but it doesn’t have to be! You have several options when it comes to folding T-shirts: you can use a basic fold to store your shirts in your dresser, use an Army roll for a compact fold that’s great for packing T-shirts for traveling, or you can pinch 2 points of the T-shirt to form a folded shirt in almost 2 seconds! 1. **Lay the T-shirt flat with the front side down.** Use a table, the floor, or any other flat surface with enough room to fold and lay the T-shirt face down. A smooth surface will make it easier for you to fold your shirt without wrinkles. Keep the shirt face down when you fold it so any logo or image on the front will be visible when it’s folded. 2. **Smooth out any wrinkles in the shirt.** Folding T-shirts with wrinkles in them will make the wrinkles worse when you put them in a drawer. Run your hands over the surface of the shirt to remove wrinkles and have it lay as flat as possible for a better fold. Use an iron for T-shirts with a lot of wrinkles. 3. **Fold the shirt in half vertically from left to right and line up the sleeves.** Take one sleeve and bring it across to the other sleeve to fold the shirt in half lengthwise. Use your hands to flatten out wrinkles or creases. Line up all of the edges of the shirt so they’re even. 4. **Bring both of the sleeves in towards the middle.** Take the 2 sleeves that are lined up and fold them into the center of the shirt. Rub your hand along the crease of the fold to prevent wrinkles and to keep the shirt flat. 5. **Take the top of the shirt and fold it in half horizontally to connect with the bottom.** Keep the edges of the shirt lined up and fold the shirt in half by bringing the top of the shirt to meet the edge of the bottom of the shirt. Run your hands over the shirt to flatten it and eliminate wrinkles. 6. **Stack your T-shirts vertically to save space.** When you’re finished folding your T-shirts, arrange them in your drawer so the collar is standing up. Stack multiple T-shirts so they support each other and stand upright in your drawer or container. Storing your shirts vertically will allow you to utilize your storage space more efficiently. 7. **Use an Army roll to pack for traveling.** An Army roll is a great way to fold a T-shirt into a tight, compact roll that takes up the least amount of space possible. When you’re packing a suitcase for travel, use the Army roll to use less space in your luggage. The Army roll is the most time-consuming way to fold a T-shirt. 8. **Lay the shirt face up on a flat surface.** You can use a table, a bed, or any other surface that’s flat and clean. Place the T-shirt face up and use your hands to get rid of any wrinkles or creases that may be on the shirt. 9. **Bring the bottom of the shirt up about 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm).** Tuck the bottom of the T-shirt up and use your fingers to make a crease in the small fold. Run your hands over the fold to flatten it out. Make sure the roll is an even size across the bottom of the shirt. Form a cuff with the bottom of the shirt. 10. **Fold the shirt into thirds starting on the left side.** Bring the left side in towards the center of the shirt, lining it up with the centerline of the shirt. Then, tuck back the sleeve so that it also is in line with the edge of the shirt. Flatten the fold by running your hands along the length of it so it’s more compact. 11. **Take the right side of the shirt and fold it in towards the center.** Place it on top of the left side so that it overlaps it and line up the edges. Then, fold the sleeve back so it’s in line with the edge. Use your hands to remove any wrinkles. The T-shirt should look like 1 long rectangle. 12. **Start rolling the shirt at the collar.** Roll the T-shirt at the collar and roll the shirt down toward the bottom until it’s fully rolled up. Keep the roll as tight as you can so it’s more compact and will take up less space when you store it. 13. **Tuck the rolled shirt into the fold at the bottom.** Unroll the cuff that you formed at the bottom of the T-shirt and tuck the rolled shirt into itself. Fold the cuff over the roll tightly so it’s secure and won’t come undone. 14. **Lay the T-shirt so it’s sideways and smooth it out with your hands.** Use a flat surface and lay the shirt down so that you’re looking at it sideways. Lay it face up with the collar to your right. The T-shirt needs to be as flat as possible, so be sure to apply pressure when you smooth out the wrinkles with your hands. 15. **Imagine 2 lines that intersect across the middle and the top of the shirt.** With the shirt flat on a surface, picture 2 lines: 1 that goes across the middle of the shirt and 1 that goes top to bottom, between the collar and the sleeve. 16. **Identify 3 points in the intersecting lines.** Think of where the 2 lines that run across the middle and from top to bottom intersect as point A. The top of the shirt between the collar and the sleeve is point B. Point C is at the bottom of the shirt where the line that runs from point B ends. 17. **Pinch point A with your left hand and point B with your right.** After you’ve identified points A, B, and C, use your fingertips to grip the shirt at points A and B. Make sure you’ve gathered both the top and bottom layer of the fabric of the T-shirt in your pinch. 18. **Hold point A in place and bring point B to meet point C.** Cross your arms when you bring point B to meet point C. Take hold of both points B and C and uncross your arms. The T-shirt will then be folded, but you may need to do some minor adjustments to line up the edges of the shirt. Fold the shirt again in the middle to make the folded T-shirt even more compact.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Fold-a-T-Shirt", "language": "en"}

How to Use Silver Shampoo

Silver shampoo, known by some as purple shampoo, works to neutralize brassy and yellow tones from blonde and gray hair. Using silver shampoo 1-2 times a week helps your hair look healthier and more color-balanced. Before you start using silver shampoo, pick a product that best fits your hair type. Then, let the shampoo sit in your hair before rinsing it out and applying a conditioner! 1. **Choose a product with extra vitamins to strengthen your hair.** Look for silver shampoos with formulas that include Vitamins A, B, D and E. If your hair is naturally brittle, nourish it with a product that offers strength, protection, and smoothness to your hair. This type of shampoo works for any shade of blonde hair. If you have ashy blonde hair, use a nutrient-rich shampoo with Vitamin B5 and wheat proteins. 2. **Opt for a shampoo with lots of pigment if your hair is brassy.** Remove the bright, harsh tones from your hair with a silver shampoo that includes extra color pigment. If you don’t want to spend extra money on a visit to your hairstylist, see if a twice-weekly silver shampoo can bring some new life into your hair routine. You can also use this type of product to extend the life of your highlights. This product works especially well for blonde hair that has lost its shine. To find a pigment-rich product, look for a more versatile shampoo. For instance, a silver shampoo that works on highlights, blonde, and silver hair will likely have more pigment in the formula. 3. **Pick a formula with centaurea extract if you have lighter hair.** Keep your platinum blonde hair light and fresh with a customized silver shampoo formula. When you’re shopping, look for centaury as an ingredient—aside from giving your blonde hair some extra shine, it also helps keep your hair from yellowing, as well. Individuals with white hair can also try adding this product to their beauty routine! In many cases, products made with centaurea extract smell great, too! This type of formula is also excellent for people with gray hair! 4. **Apply a golf ball-sized amount of silver shampoo to your wet hair.** Pump or squeeze an ample amount of shampoo onto one hand. Once you’ve covered the center of your palm, rub both hands together so that they’re coated in product. If you have especially long or thick hair, consider tying back the upper layers of your hair with a clip or scrunchie. Although it’s called silver shampoo, don’t be surprised if the product looks purple. You can use this shampoo in or out of the shower, depending on your beauty routine. 5. **Swipe the shampoo into your hairline and work your way down.** Use your shampoo-covered hands to coat your hair completely with product. To ensure that all your hair gets covered, work with 1 inch (2.5 cm) sections of hair at a time. Start from the base of the hairline, using long and slow rubbing motions to knead the shampoo into your hair. Don’t worry if your hands look purple while you’re applying the shampoo. Wash your hands thoroughly once you’re finished to remove the purple tint. Focus on scrubbing your scalp whenever you use shampoo. 6. **Let the shampoo sit in your hair for 3-5 minutes.** Wait at least 3 minutes before rinsing out the silver shampoo from your hair. If you’re in the shower, take this time to continue your beauty routine. Depending on your hair type or the specific product you’re using, you might want to leave the shampoo in your hair for a longer amount of time. This part of the process helps the silver shampoo to soak into your hair and combat any harsh, brassy tones. You can also apply silver shampoo specifically to any yellow-looking sections of hair. Apply the product while your hair is dry, and then let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it out. Then, wash and condition your hair as usual—this should cancel out a lot of those yellow tones. 7. **Rinse out the shampoo with running water.** Turn on your shower or bathroom faucet to a warm setting, and wash the suds out of your hair. Use your fingers to coax out any remaining product, and try to angle your head so the running water hits your scalp directly. Don’t be alarmed if the water looks purple as it rinses out. The product shouldn’t tint your shower or sink. 8. **Rub in some purple conditioner and let it sit for 1 minute.** Squeeze or pump a coin-sized amount of silver or purple conditioner into the palm of one hand. After rubbing your hands together, use your fingers to swipe the conditioner into your hair. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up, rubbing it in slowly as you go. Wait at least 1 minute for the product to set into your hair. Try to avoid applying the conditioner at your roots, as this will make your hair feel a lot heavier. Overall, focus on the ends of your hair whenever you use conditioner. The ends of your hair are older, dryer, and more brittle than the hair closer to your scalp, so they need the most conditioner. 9. **Rinse out your hair with cold water and pat it dry.** Turn your shower or faucet to the coldest setting that you can handle, and wash out the conditioner. Don’t leave the cold water on for too long—only keep it on for 30 seconds or so until all of the product is gone. Once you’ve finished rinsing, use a towel to pat your hair dry until it’s no longer dripping wet. Check the bottle product to see if you can use a blow dryer after using a silver shampoo and conditioner.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Silver-Shampoo", "language": "en"}

How to Sign a Painting

Adding a signature to your painting will make it easier for people to identify you as the artist, even after your painting has been sold and moved around. The signature on your painting should be legible and clear without being a distraction. You want it to blend in and match the rest of your painting so it doesn't look out of place. By taking the time to come up with a good signature and choosing the right spot for it, you can ensure you get the credit for your artwork that you deserve. 1. **Sign your painting with your full name or last name.** Avoid signing with your initials or a monogram or people may not be able to identify you as the artist. Even if some people recognize your initials or monogram now, other people might not, and your painting could eventually become unidentifiable if your full or last name isn't on it. 2. **Use a signature that’s easy to read.** If people can’t read your signature, they won’t be able to identify you as the artist. It's true that some famous artists have illegible signatures, but they can get away with it because a lot of people in the art world are familiar with them. If your signature is illegible, future owners of your painting will have a hard time finding out who you are. Practice signing a legible signature on a piece of paper. Then, show a few friends and ask if they can read it. If they can’t, work on making it easier to read. 3. **Use the same signature on all of your paintings.** That way people will start to recognize your signature overtime, which will make your artwork easier to identify. If your signature is always different, people might not realize your paintings were made by the same artist. If you don’t like the signature you’ve used in the past, come up with a new one now and use it on all your future paintings. 4. **Avoid using an eye-catching signature.** A signature that is too bold can take away from the rest of your painting. Your signature should be noticeable enough that people looking for it can find it, but not so noticeable that it’s the first thing people’s eyes are drawn to. An easy way to make your signature blend in is to paint it using a color that appears a lot in your painting. 5. **Sign in a bottom corner of your painting if you want a traditional signature.** You can sign in the left or right bottom corner, although signing in the right bottom corner is more common. If you do sign in the bottom corner, place your signature 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) from the edge of your painting. That way if your painting is framed, your signature won’t be covered up. 6. **Sign somewhere inside of the painting if you want a less obvious signature.** You could place your signature inside of an object in your painting, or have it going vertically up the side of something. If you do place your signature inside of your painting, make sure it blends in by keeping it small and using a color that matches the colors around it. For example, if your painting features a bowl of apples, you could place your signature inside one of the apples and paint it a shade of red so it blends in. 7. **Put your full name on the back if your signature isn't your full name.** Then people can check the back of your painting for your full name if you only have your last name on the front. This will make it easier for someone to identify you as the artist later on. 8. **Sign your painting right after you finish it.** This will help your signature blend in with the rest of your painting. If you wait for your painting to dry before you sign it, your signature will stand out more and look like it was added later on. Also, collectors prefer paintings where the signature was added at the time the painting was finished because they are harder to forge. 9. **Sign your painting using the same medium you painted it with.** Using the same medium will help your signature blend in with the rest of your painting. Avoid using a different medium to sign your signature or it could clash with your painting and look out of place. For example, if you used watercolor paints to make your painting, you should use watercolor paints to sign your signature. If you made your painting with oil paints, you wouldn’t want to paint your signature with acrylic paint. 10. **Add the year you made the painting to your signature.** It will help you and future owners of your art keep track of when it was painted. Right after you sign your name, put the year you made the painting. If you don’t want the year on the front, paint it on the back so people can reference it. You can abbreviate the year if you want. For example, instead of signing “2017,” you could just put “17.”

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Sign-a-Painting", "language": "en"}

How to Start a Horror Story

Writing your own horror story can be a fun personal project or an interesting assignment for a class. Perhaps one of the more challenging elements of the horror story is the beginning of the story, or the opening lines. You can start your own horror story by first creating a story idea and crafting a strong beginning. You should then revise your beginning pages so they fit with the rest of the story and are as engaging as possible. 1. **Describe something that scares or revolts you.** Think about your greatest fear or fears. This could be the fear of losing a friend, a fear of heights, a fear of clowns, or even a fear of velcro. You can then tap into this fear and explore it as an idea for your story. Use your fear as material for a story about something scary or revolting. Consider how you would react as a character if you were forced to confront these fears. Another option is to ask family, friends, and partners what scares or revolts them the most. You can then use their fears as an idea for your story. 2. **Turn an ordinary situation into something horrifying.** You can also take a normal, common situation like going for a stroll in the park, preparing a meal, or visiting a friend and add a terrifying element to the situation. Use your imagination to add a horrifying spin to a normal, everyday activity or scene. For example, maybe you come across a severed ear during your morning stroll in the park or perhaps a vegetable you are cutting up for dinner turns into a finger or a tentacle. Get creative and consider how you can skew or twist around a situation that seems commonplace. 3. **Trap your characters in a terrifying setting.** You can also limit or trap your main character in a setting that is terrifying and scary. Restricting your character’s movements will allow you to build tension and terror in the story using setting. Consider a confined space that scares you or frightens you. Ask yourself where you would dread or fear being trapped in the most. Maybe you trap your character in a confined space like a coffin, a cold dank cellar, an abandoned police station, an island or an abandoned city. Trapping your characters in a scary setting will introduce fear into the story right away and create immediate tension and suspense. 4. **Create distinct main characters.** You can also start your horror story by focusing on character development. You should strive to create a main character or several main characters that are distinct and detailed. You may create a character study for each character so you can get a sense of how they live, how they think, and how they might react in a conflict. Even if every detail in your sketch doesn't show up in your story, they can still impact how you write the character and how your readers perceive your character. A well-rounded character will be noticeable and memorable for your readers. Start your sketch by asking yourself about things like: The character's age and occupation The character's marital status or relationship status The character's view the world (cynical, skeptical, anxious, happy-go-lucky, satisfied, settled) Any specific or unique physical details, such as a physical trait like a certain hairstyle, a scar, or a certain style of dress The character's speech, dialect, or language spoken around others 5. **Give your main character an extreme emotion.** Horror hinges on the reader’s reaction to the material. You can create extreme emotion in the reader by giving your character an extreme emotion that they then have to struggle with over the course of the story. Emotions like shock, paranoia, and dread are all strong emotions that can motivate a character to take action or have intense internal thoughts. Making your character experience an intense shock, like the death of a loved one or the loss of a job, can also create a conflict for your character. This can then lead the character to make decisions they would not make if they were not in shock or dealing with the aftershock of a major event. You can also give your main character a dose of paranoia, or a sense that something is not quite right. This will make the character suspicious and view things from a skewed perspective. This is also an easy way to help set up your protagonist's relationship with other characters. Paranoia is also great at unnerving your reader and making them also doubt their understanding of the events happening in the story. Another option is to give your main character a sense of dread or a feeling that something bad is going to happen. Dread can help to build tension in the story and keep the reader on edge. 6. **Create a plot outline** Once you have a clear story idea, you should create a plot outline so you have a general sense of where your characters are heading in the story. Coming up with the structure in advance like this will make your story stronger in the long run. The plot outline can act as a map or guide for your story, though you may end up deviating from the outline if inspiration strikes as you write the horror story. You may use a plot diagram to create the outline. The plot diagram will have six distinct sections, forming the shape of a triangle, with the climax at the top of the triangle. The six sections are: the set up, the inciting incident, the rising action, the climax, the falling action, and the resolution. You can also use the snowflake method to create the outline. You will do this by creating a one sentence summary of the plot, followed by a one paragraph summary of the plot, and then a spreadsheet of scenes. 7. **Create an informative, engaging first line.** The first line of your story should raise questions in the reader’s mind but also ground the reader in the story. A good opening line will tell the reader what the story is about, have a distinct voice or point of view, and a hint of characterization. For example, you may decide to write a story about your fear of velcro, set in a dystopian world. You may have the following opening line: “Sara tried to sit still while the men tightened the velcro straps around her wrists, squeezing her eyes shut to block out the terrifying sound.” This opening line introduces the main character, Sara, and places her in a scene where she is experiencing fear and discomfort. It also raises questions in the reader’s mind, such as who are “the men” and why is Sara being strapped down? These questions will keep your reader engaged and willing to keep turning the page. 8. **Start in scene.** Try to start your story in scene, where your character or characters are moving, interacting, or doing something. Starting in a scene with action will engage your reader right away and hook them in so they are encouraged to keep reading. It will also help to ground the reader in the story and help them to feel carried along by the story. Try to place your main character in a scene where they are in distress or unsettled in some way. This will introduce the horror element of the story right away. For example, you may open your story with a scene where your main character is being strapped into a device. You may then describe how it feels for your character to be in the device and her thought process of trying to escape the device while her captors try to keep her strapped down. 9. **Introduce terrifying or unsettling details right away.** You are writing a horror story after all, so do not be afraid to introduce terrifying or unsettling details within the first paragraph of the story. By the end of the first paragraph, your reader should know the setting and the conflict. Your reader should also have a good sense of terror or fear by the end of the first page of the story, as you want to evoke strong emotions from your reader. For example, you may try to include gory details like blood, guts, mucus, brain matter, or saliva in the first paragraph of your story. Try to use the gory details sparingly and a little at a time so the story does not feel cliche or familiar. That way, when you do include some gore, it's more impactful for your reader. 10. **Include a main conflict.** Your horror story should also include a main conflict, where your main character is spurred into action in some way. The main conflict of your horror story should appear within the first several paragraphs or the first one to two pages of your story. Having a conflict in your story as soon as possible will keep your reader engaged and help to build tension in your story. For example, you may have a main character who is trying to get rid of a ghost in her home. This could be the main conflict that you introduce in the story right away. The rest of the story could then be about her attempt to get rid of the ghost in her house without getting hurt or harming anyone in her family. Another common overarching conflict is the theme of survival, wherein your character must face a terrifying situation that threatens their life if they cannot escape it. If you decide to withhold the conflict from the reader until later in the story, you should have a good reason for doing this. Withholding information should only be done intentionally and for the benefit of the story, as your reader may get confused or lost without this information. 11. **Use the active voice.** You should also try to always use the active voice in your opening section and throughout your story, rather than the passive voice. The passive voice can end up making your sentences sound bland or dry. You want to create sentences that are engaging and dynamic to your reader, with a lot of action and forward momentum. For example, rather than start your story with the line: “The straps are cold on Sara’s skin as the men strap her into the chair," which is passive and confusing, you may start with: “Sara feels the straps, cold and metal, on her skin as the men hold her down in the chair.” The second sentence uses the active voice and places the subject of the sentence,“Sara," next to the verb in the sentence, “feels.” Using the active voice does not mean you are limited to only using first person, present for your point of view. You can still use the active voice in the past tense, using third person or second person. 12. **Read example beginnings.** You can get a better sense of start your horror story with a bang by reading example beginnings from popular, well known horror stories. Use these openings as a model or guide for your own story. Examples include: The beginning of “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allen Poe: “True! --nervous --very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am; but why will you say that I am mad?” The opening lines tell the reader right away that the narrator is unsettled, very nervous, and possibly mad. It is a great opening that puts the reader on edge right away and prepares them for an unsettling story. The beginning of “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” by Joyce Carol Oates: “Her name was Connie. She was fifteen and she had a quick, nervous giggling habit of craning her neck to glance into mirrors or checking other people’s faces to make sure her own was all right.” The beginning lines are deceptively simple but they introduce the main character, provide her young age and gender, and characterize the main character as possibly vain and naive. These lines prepare the reader for a story about the main character that is flawed and possibly susceptible to outside influence. The beginning of 1984 by George Orwell: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.” This beginning line is well known and admired for its ability to cram all the craft elements of the story in one sentence. The reader is grounded in setting and set up with an unsettling image, a day that is bright and cold. The clocks striking thirteen also feel like a bad omen and sign of misfortune to come. 13. **Read the opening lines out loud.** Once you have written the opening of your horror story, you should read them out loud to hear how they sound on the page. Note if the opening lines feel unsettling or disturbing. Check if the opening lines contain plot, characterization, setting, and voice. You may also read the opening lines out loud to a trusted friend or peer to get a second opinion. Ask your listener if they find the story creepy, disturbing, or horrifying. Be willing to take constructive criticism and feedback about the opening, as getting a second viewpoint on the beginning can make it stronger. 14. **Revise the beginning once you have reached the end.** Often, cracking the beginning lines can make it easier to then write the rest of the story. Once you have created a satisfying ending to your horror story, you should go back and revise the beginning. This will ensure your beginning still fits with where your story ended up. You should consider if the beginning section flows well with the rest of the story. You should also adjust the beginning to reflect any changes to your character or your setting that you made later on in the story. You want your beginning to feel like a natural start to the rest of the story. 15. **Edit the beginning for clarity, voice, and style.** You should also read over the beginning section to ensure it is not confusing in anyway and that it is easy to follow for the reader. There is nothing worse than an opening section that does not make sense to a reader, as they may get so frustrated they stop reading any further. Make sure the character voice in the beginning section matches the character voice in the rest of the story. You want a consistent character voice throughout your story so it feels cohesive.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Horror-Story", "language": "en"}

How to Help Someone with Anger Issues

Anger is a common emotion and can easily spiral into rage, so there's a chance you will someday encounter a friend, family member, or partner who has trouble controlling their anger. You can help them, first and foremost, by reeling in your own emotions, as becoming upset yourself will likely worsen the problem. After responding appropriately and de-escalating their anger, try motivating them to get help for their anger. Having a loved one with a fiery temper can be stressful, so be sure to look after yourself too. 1. **Stay calm during tense situations.** If your loved one gets angry, the only way you can effectively defuse the situation is by getting a hold of your own anger. Losing your own temper will only make matters worse. Breathe in and out deeply. Count silently to 100 or go splash water on your face to clear your head. 2. **Speak in an even, moderate tone of voice.** Lower your voice, so that it's just above a whisper. Doing this helps you maintain calm without shouting, but it also reinforces appropriate communication. Your loved one will likely follow suit and lower their voice, too. 3. **Give your full attention when listening.** Many angry people get that way because they feel no one is listening to them. Turn off your loved one's angry switch by giving them 100% of your attention. Turn to face them and hear them out without interrupting. Being a good listener could help defuse the situation completely. Be sure to pay attention to the underlying issue. 4. **Show compassion towards the other person.** Your loved one may act angry because they don't believe they are being heard or understood. Be sure to validate their experience and let them know that you are taking them seriously and respect their opinions. Demonstrate your understanding by using reflection techniques. This might sound like, “I can see why you feel angry about the teller being rude to you,” or “I think I understand the problem. You feel overlooked.” 5. **Assert your boundaries.** Insist that your angry loved one treat you with respect. In a calm and cool manner, say something like, “I will leave if you don't stop shouting,” or “I won't continue this conversation if you engage in name-calling.” Once a boundary has been communicated, be firm and follow through if the person crosses the line. 6. **Use “I” statements to discuss the problem.** You want to steer clear of criticism or blame, so interact using “I” statements that convey your needs without placing blame. These statements don't attack the other person, but they do let you communicate how you feel about the issue. For example, instead of saying “You are always shouting at me!” say “I feel anxious when you shout. Can we try to use indoor voices?” 7. **Resist the urge to give advice.** Angry people often view advice as criticism, so avoid trying to fix their problem. Just actively listen. If you want to try to work out whether your loved one merely wants to vent or needs a solution, ask them— after they've finished talking. You might ask, “Do you want help with the problem or did you just want to get everything off your chest?” before you try to offer advice. Or, you could say, “I understand your anger. How can I help?” If your loved one tends to view you as critical, save your solutions for another time when they've cooled off. 8. **Take a break if you need one.** If you feel under attack or overwhelmed during communication with an angry person, ask for a timeout. You might say, “I don't think we're going to reach an agreement if we're shouting at each other. Let's take 10, okay?” Go someplace where you feel safe and get your own emotions under control. Listen to soft music, watch a silly YouTube video, or call someone who tends to calm you down. 9. **Focus on the issue, not the person.** Have a talk letting your loved one know how their angry behavior affects you without making it seem like they're the problem. This increases the odds of them cooperating with you and shows that you are concerned. Say, "I've noticed you're angry a lot lately. It prevents us from connecting like we used to. It'd make me feel better if you talked to someone about it." Take note of patterns regarding what angers the person to determine underlying issues. For instance, if they often get upset when people gossip about them, the underlying issue may be that they value privacy. Once you've determined the underlying issue, you can help the person develop strategies or create boundaries to deal with it. For example, if the person values privacy, you could caution them not to share personal information with their co-workers if it leads to office gossip. 10. **Become aware of the anger scale.** Anger doesn't usually start out as anger. It may begin as annoyance, which increases to frustration, irritation, anger, and rage. Learn to identify signs of annoyance in your loved one so you can help de-escalate the situation before they become explosively angry. If your loved one seems to jump straight to anger or rage, skipping the earlier stages, it would be beneficial for them to receive professional help to identify their triggers and learn intervention strategies to diffuse their anger. 11. **Offer to accompany them when seeing a professional.** Don't just tell your loved one they should get help without offering your support. Tell them that you are willing to help them find a therapist or an anger management class. Offer to drive them to sessions and sit in the waiting room if they'd like. 12. **Pick your battles.** You won't make any headway if you have a tendency to nag your loved one about their anger problem. Plus, not every single issue requires a disagreement. Try to be selective when addressing issues. Pick your battles based on whether you feel like your boundaries have been violated. Also, choose your battles based on timing. Aim to talk through difficult issues when your loved one is calm, sober, and in a relatively positive mood. 13. **Encourage your loved one to decrease their stress levels.** People who are stressed are more likely to get angry more quickly, as stress feeds anger. If your loved one has a lower stress baseline, it will take more time for them to reach the anger stage. This gives you more time to recognize the early signs of anger and take steps to calm them down. Your loved one could try meditation, yoga, exercising, breathing exercises, or other strategies to control their stress. 14. **Be patient.** Working with a loved one who has anger issues is like the waltz: you will take nearly as many steps backward as you do forward. Strive for patience with the person as they come to acknowledge they have a problem with anger. 15. **Confide in a trusted friend.** Offering your support to someone with anger issues can feel draining. Be sure to get support of your own by reaching out to close friends and family. Ask them to hear you out as you talk through problems or simply distract you when you don't want to discuss the issue. Avoid gossiping about the angry person or rehashing their issues. Instead, focus on what you need to do to de-stress. 16. **Spend time with happy people.** If everyone in your social circle is angry, you may become angry too. This is because people have a tendency to mimic the behavior of those around them. Make sure you have a well-rounded social circle that includes generally happy or optimistic people as well. 17. **Practice self-care.** An angry environment can make you feel stressed out or anxious. Combat stress with regular self-care activities, like getting a massage, listening to soothing music, soaking in a warm bath, or doing relaxing yoga sequences. It's fine to want to support your loved one, but try to carve out some “me time” a few days each week to do nourishing activities to fill yourself back up. 18. **Attend an anger management support group.** Another way to get support is by seeking out others who understand what you are going through. Locate anger management support groups in your local area and consider attending a few meetings. You might feel relieved to hear that others are having similar experiences. Plus, they may have useful advice to help you cope. 19. **Get help if anger turns violent.** If your loved one becomes abusive, all bets are off. It is never okay to hurt someone else out of anger. At that point, you must direct your energy towards keeping yourself safe. Leave the environment if possible. Call a friend, family member, or speak to someone anonymously on a helpline. If your spouse becomes violent, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. If you are a child and afraid of an adult with violent tendencies, contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Help-Someone-with-Anger-Issues", "language": "en"}

How to Get Your Parents to Like Your Boyfriend

Are you worried that your parents won’t like your boyfriend? Help them to be more at ease by talking with them, listening to their perspective, and responding to their concerns with respect. It may take time for your parents to like your boyfriend. Find ways for your parents and your boyfriend to see eye-to-eye through common interests. By making your boyfriend feel more like part of the family, you can show your parents why your relationship with him matters. 1. **Talk with them about your boyfriend.** Instead of hiding the fact that you’re seeing someone, discuss with your parents about your boyfriend when the relationship becomes more serious. Tell them more about him, and how long you’ve been dating. Open communication with your parents will likely feel better and healthier for you in the long run. If you are fearful that they will disapprove, be calm and polite. Focus on showing them why he is a good fit for you, and what you like about him. Explain how your relationship will not interfere with your work, life, or school. 2. **Listen to their perspective.** While hearing that they don’t like your boyfriend may be tough, give them a chance to explain themselves. Have them provide clarity about why he’s a bad fit for you. While you may not like what your parents have to say, sometimes it comes from a place of wisdom. Ask them why they have an issue with your boyfriend. Are they worried that your boyfriend doesn’t respect you? Are they concerned about the way he talks to you? Do they think that he’s controlling? If this is the case, these may be serious concerns to consider. 3. **Avoid being immediately defensive.** While you may want to talk back to your parents, and provide criticism about their choices, this will not help you get any closer to having your parents like your boyfriend. Being overly defensive will likely make them even less approving of your relationship with him. Avoid putting your parents down or stating that their views are wrong. Tell them that you love them. Explain that you came to them for support rather than judgment. Focus on being calm even if they make you upset. 4. **Respond to their concerns with respect.** Your parents or family history may be rooted in certain traditions or norms. It may seem like they are outdated in their views or don’t understand your perspective. While there may be differences, focus on keeping a positive relationship with them. Even if you and your parents disagree, that doesn’t mean you should be rude and disrespectful of their concerns. If you are kind, mature, and respectful, they are more likely to take your relationship seriously, and try to find the positives in your boyfriend. 5. **Prep your boyfriend about expectations.** Before introducing your boyfriend to your family, provide him with your family’s possible expectations. By prepping your boyfriend for certain behaviors and questions, then he may feel less overwhelmed and more at ease. Avoid blindsiding your boyfriend about how your parents may act. Provide him with reassurance. Teach him ways to win your parents over. Good manners in particular will help. Consider asking him to dress up for the first meeting with your parents. Tell your boyfriend to avoid cursing or crude language that could bother your parents. Tell your boyfriend what to call your parents, such as Mr. and Mrs. Smith or by their first names if less formal. 6. **Have introductions in low pressure settings.** When you and your boyfriend meet up with your parents, make the settings less awkward or uncomfortable. Find ways for your boyfriend to meet your parents well before a big family gathering or a holiday dinner. Make the interactions seem natural between your boyfriend and your parents, rather than awkward, big events. Have opportunities for you and your boyfriend to meet your parents at home or at a family dinner on a Sunday night. Consider having your parents meet you and your boyfriend at a neutral place like a shopping mall or a restaurant. The interactions between your boyfriend and your parents don’t have to be long, but should help to put both sides more at ease. 7. **Find ways to connect your parents’ interests to your boyfriend.** Just like when you meet new people. You’re more likely to enjoy being with someone who has common interests. Figure out ways to connect the hobbies, interests, and personalities of your parents to your boyfriend. For example, let’s say that your boyfriend is soccer sports fan and watches other sports. Maybe your parents are devoted sports fans. Even if they aren’t fans of the same team or sport, there may be things that they can talk about. Or let’s say that your boyfriend plays a musical instrument, and your parents love jazz, you could see if your boyfriend could play a song that they enjoy. 8. **Avoid taking sides.** You may feel torn between your parents and your boyfriend. But it’s not about who’s right or who’s wrong. It about reconstructing each side’s ideas about each other. Focus on being understanding. Tell you parents that ultimatums will likely be less helpful than having your parents get know your boyfriend. Find ways to see compromise as a benefit for them and your boyfriend. Remind your parents that you love them, and you’re not trying to hurt them with your choice of boyfriend. 9. **Ask for mutual respect from your parents.** It may be hard to understand your parents’ ways or beliefs. They may seem to show little respect for your own choices. Try to take the high road and focus on being kind even if it’s tough. Show them that you can be respectful, even if you continue to see your boyfriend. Avoid alienating yourself from your family just because they say they don’t like your boyfriend. Understand that their thoughts about your boyfriend may change with time. If you continue to be kind, polite, and mature, they are likely to be less overbearing about your boyfriend. Treat them as you would like to be treated. 10. **Find ways for your boyfriend to feel more included in your family.** Even if your family may be initially hesitant to include your boyfriend, find ways to have your boyfriend become more integrated into your family’s life. If your parents say they don’t want to see him, don’t assume that they will always act that way. Your parents may feel initial shock or worry when meeting a new boyfriend of yours. It may simply take time for them to feel more comfortable. Make your boyfriend feel welcome at your home or in your life. Provide your boyfriend with reassurance that your parents may change their minds with time.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Your-Parents-to-Like-Your-Boyfriend", "language": "en"}

How to Make Waterproof Matches

Waterproof matches are expensive, but you can make your own for only a fraction of the price. Listed below are a number of effective and proven ways to make waterproof matches you can use for camping, backpacking, and emergencies. Note: All the methods below involve some risk. If you are a minor, do not carry out any of these activities without the permission of a competent adult supervisor. The list is ranked from safest to least safe. The best and safest method is to use turpentine. (Turpentine has a higher "flash point" relative to acetone, which is commonly used in nail polish and does not involve the use of flame as is needed in the Wax or Paraffin methods.) 1. **Pour 2 to 3 large tablespoons of turpentine into a small (tumbler sized) glass.** 2. **Place the matches, (head down) into the turpentine and allow the matches to soak for 5 minutes.** During that time the turpentine will soak into the head as well as the stem. All the water will be driven off by the turpentine. 3. **Remove the matches and spread them out to dry out on a sheet of newspaper.** Generally, 20 minutes for excess turpentine to evaporate is recommended. Matches treated in this way remain waterproof for several months or longer. 4. **Dip the head end of the match into clear nail polish far enough to cover at least an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) of the stick below the head.** 5. **Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the polish to dry and then place the match on a table or counter so that the head is suspended off the edge of the surface.** 6. **Place a sheet of newsprint below to catch anything that may drip off.** 7. **Light a candle and let it burn down until you have a good amount of liquid wax (about a half of an inch or 1 centimeter).** 8. **Extinguish the candle.** 9. **Dip the head end of the match into the wax far enough to cover at least an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) of the stick below the head.** 10. **Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the wax to harden slightly and then place the match on a table or counter so that the head is suspended off the edge of the surface.** 11. **When the wax has cooled, but not completely hardened, pinch the end of the wax coating (towards the stick), forming a tight seal.** 12. **Melt enough paraffin wax in a double boiler to be able to coat with wax about a half of an inch (1 centimeter) deep.** 13. **Wrap some twine or jute string around several matches from the bottom, to just below the wax quickly.** This makes a torch that can burn for 10 or more minutes.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Waterproof-Matches", "language": "en"}

How to Stop Being Afraid of Ghosts

Ghost stories have been part of human culture for thousands of years. It is widely believed that ghosts are the spirits of the living who have passed away. Because humans are themselves a source of energy, some argue that when we die our energy lives on in the form of a spirit. Ghosts then, are nothing more than spirits who wind up on earth for one reason or another. While there is no absolute proof that ghosts exist, the fear that accompanies them is all too real for some people. 1. **Ask yourself why you’re scared.** The first step in facing your fear of ghosts is to find out where your fear is coming from. Fear can be a helpful feeling as it often alerts us to danger; but other times, fear becomes an automatic response to fear of the unknown. This feeling can make situations appear worse than they really are. So ask yourself if there is really a ghost or if you are just afraid of the unknown. Ask yourself, “What am I actually afraid of?” Pick apart your fear by determining if you are actually in danger, or if your fear of the unknown is getting the better of you. 2. **Stop an overactive imagination.** What we create in our mind has the ability to create silly fears. Even if you’ve never experienced a ghostly encounter, your mind has a way of pulling together all of the worst images possible to make you afraid. Realize that you (and not the ghost) are the one doing all the scaring. By recognizing the power of your imagination, you can control your thoughts and get a handle on your fears. Calm an overactive imagination by watching less television. TV plays a major part in what we think about on a daily basis. By limiting the amount of movies and TV watched, you can stop buying into the false sense of reality created by media. At a minimum, limit the amount of ghost-themed TV you watch. Try meditation to learn to calm an active mind. By concentrating on different thoughts, objects, or chants, you can learn how to focus your mind and block out unwanted thoughts. 3. **Remember they can’t hurt you.** Popular belief says that ghosts have no power in this world and therefore cannot cause any physical harm to humans (after all, they are only spirits). It is believed that ghosts are either spirits who are passing by (and have no interest in you) or spirits of loved ones (who wouldn’t want to hurt you anyway). So rest assured that ghosts can’t do much harm aside from making your heart beat faster. There has been no proof that ghosts have ever caused any person physical harm. Most accounts are more legend than fact. 4. **Forget what you’ve seen in movies.** The movie industry has made millions of dollars by using people's fears to create an exaggerated view of the spiritual world. Though the spiritual world isn’t as terrifying and dangerous as depicted in film, it can play to the fears of those who are unfamiliar with spirits and ghosts. Avoid watching these exaggerated realities and instead try to connect to the spiritual world in a more natural and positive way. 5. **Believe in your ability to stop being afraid.** Believe in your ability to overcome your fear of ghosts and believe in your ability to face the unknown with strength and bravery. If you don’t trust your power to overcome this fear, you will never be successful. Don’t beat yourself up over your fear. Realize that it is perfectly natural. Recall your past successes. Think back about a time where you faced a difficult situation and came out on top. Allow yourself time to overcome your fear and if you fail, always set your mind to try again. 6. **Realize you’re a spirit too.** Remember that you yourself are composed of a spirit as well—the only difference is that you are living in both the physical and the spiritual worlds, while what we think of as ghosts live in only the spiritual world. Connecting to the spiritual world should not be considered something that is supernatural when spirit is who we are. Make an effort to embrace both the physical and spiritual world equally. Make an effort to think of ghosts or spirits as non-scary and non-threatening entities—just like you. 7. **Imagine the ghost as something nice and warm.** All life starts from the same place, so instead of viewing a ghost or spirit as a scary, otherworldly being, view them as a light that comes from the same place that you do. Know who your higher power is. If you believe in God, Christ, Santa Claus, or any other being, hold that all energy and life stems from them. Imagine that both you and the ghost or spirit stem from this higher power in the form of warm, glowing light. Allow that light to protect you from anything that is dark. Invite only love and light into your life. 8. **Use humor to fight fear.** What better way to get rid of fear than to laugh? This can be done in a number of ways: watch a funny movie, think of a funny joke, or turn what is scary into something funny. For example, think about how often ghosts have been used in comedy like the movies Casper the Friendly Ghost, or Scary Movie. 9. **Say a prayer or sing a song.** If fear of ghosts seems to be crippling you, say a prayer or some words that will help to give you peace and strength. For example, a religious person might recite the Lord’s Prayer or sing a happy song. 10. **Do something to take your mind off of your fear.** Sometimes the fear of ghosts is nothing more than our imagination playing tricks on us. What better way to avoid the fear than to take your mind off of it? Try an activity that will help keep your mind busy such as talking to a friend, watching cartoons, exercising, or doing homework. 11. **Practice taking action even though you're scared.** The key to happiness and success is the ability to act in the face of your fears.By confronting your fear of ghosts, you take away all of the power that it (or the ghosts) might have over you. For example, if you're afraid of the dark, try going to sleep without a nightlight or walking to the kitchen in the dark. Choose a minor situation that makes you afraid and use it as practice to build up to standing up to your fear of ghosts. For example, if you’re afraid of spiders, try to conquer this fear first. Always set a timeline on your goals to avoid backing out of them or giving up on them. 12. **Stand up to your fear.** Whether you have had interactions with ghosts or not, sometimes the best way to handle your fear of them is to stand firm. Speak clearly and firmly and tell them what you will not tolerate from them.The important point to remember is that you actually have to believe in your determination or they won’t believe it or respect it. Even if there are no ghosts around, this can be a very powerful way to change your focus from thinking negative thoughts to positive ones.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Being-Afraid-of-Ghosts", "language": "en"}

How to Welcome a Foster Child

Welcoming a foster child into your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience. You may be worried about making the child feel welcome and comfortable in his or her new home. Getting the foster child settled can be challenging for all parties involved, but with the right preparations and steps, you can ensure they feel like they belong in their new space. 1. **Introduce yourself by the name you would like the child to use.** Your welcome begins as soon as the caseworker walks into the home with the foster child. Use a soft, friendly voice to greet the caseworker and the child. Introduce yourself by the name you would like the child to use when referring to you. Do not insist the child call you “Mom” or “Dad,” as this will be confusing to the child. Instead, add a “Miss” or “Mister” to your first name, such as “Mrs. Sandra” or “Mr. Keith.” You may also offer the child a few options on how to address you. Doing this will give the child the power to choose and make his or her own decision. If there are other members of the household, you should introduce them as well or allow each person to introduce themselves. The child should not be expected to call other members of the household “sister” or “brother.” Instead, use first names. 2. **Take the child on a tour of the house, including their new room.** You should then take the child on a tour of the house, from the kitchen to the living room to the upstairs bedrooms. You should also make sure the child’s new room is ready and set up. Keep their room or area of a room simple and clean, providing a bed, a bedside table, and a bureau or closet. You may also set up a desk in the room, if available. Include fresh bedding on the bed and keep the walls bare. Tell they child they can decorate the walls how they sees fit and make the room their own. You may include a personal detail based on information you received previously about the child. Maybe the caseworker shared that the child loves a certain sports team or is a big reader. You may then include a poster of the child’s favorite sports team or a stack of books in their room. You may also include a night light for the child, especially if the child is younger. Some foster children have a hard time sleeping in the dark in a new space. 3. **Give the child a welcome book.** To really make the child feel welcome, you may create a “welcome to your new home” book. The book could include photographs of your family and brief biographical information about your family. Try to make the book feel welcoming and specific to the child by including the child’s name in the book. You may also include photographs of each room in the house, including information on what the foster child can and cannot do in each room. You can include a list of the house rules in the book so the child can read them on their own. This can be a good way to set boundaries and rules for the child early. 4. **Provide a welcome basket for the child.** Another option is to create a welcome basket for the child. The basket could be filled with new clothing, books, small toys, and photograph frames. These items could help the child to feel welcome and comfortable in your home. Giving the child a basket of items also gives them a chance to claim items that are their own in their new home. This can feel empowering for the child and give them a sense of ownership. The empty photograph frames are a good option as they give the child a chance to frame any pictures they may have of their biological family or any close friends. Over time, the child may also decide to put a photograph of you and your family in the frame. 5. **Have comfort foods ready to offer the child.** The smell of freshly baked cookies or pizza warming in the oven can be a real comfort for a child in a new environment. Have a tray of cookies on hand or pop pizzas in the oven while you give the child a tour so they will be ready by the time the tour is done. Comfort food can really ease the stress of being in a new environment for the child. Try to share a meal with the child and the family on the first night. Encourage everyone who lives in the house to come to the dinner or meal. This will help the child to feel comfortable and give them a sense of the routines in the house. 6. **Prepare familiar meals for the child.** Eating meals may be a big routine in your home and it can be a good way to reinforce bonding and comfort with the child. You may need to teach the child table manners and healthy eating gradually so they can adapt. Do this by first sticking to the diet the child is used to and prepare comfort foods. This may mean making fast food or processed foods for the first week so the child can feel comfortable and less nervous at the table. Over time, you can start to teach the child to choose healthier food options. You can also reinforce table manners and etiquette at the table. Do not rush and be patient, as the child may need time to get used to these expectations. 7. **Share the house rules and expectations.** Try to sit down with the child and establish the house rules on the first day. Lay out your top five No-No’s in your home so the child is aware of your expectations. For example, your first rule may be to give everyone in the house privacy and not touch or talk about other people’s bodies in inappropriate ways. You may also have a rule where no one hits or speaks unkindly to anyone in the house. You may say, “In this house, we talk to each other with respect and kindness. We listen and we do not interrupt.” You may also ask the child for their own set of expectations and rules. If some of their rules do not align with yours, gently explain that in your home, this is how it is done. 8. **Warn the child before you enforce your expectations.** Avoid discussing consequences with the child until an incident occurs. Try to deal with the incident by reminding the child of your expectations and by giving out a warning. You may then enforce the consequences if the child disobeys you even after you have given the warning. Do not hit or spank the child, as this can be triggering for the child. Try to treat the child as you would any other children in your home. Be firm and reinforce consequences for bad behavior, but be reasonable and never be violent with the child. 9. **Give the child house chores to do.** Make the child feel part of the family by giving them house chores during their first week in the home. These could be simple, easy chores like wiping the table after a meal or helping to wash the dishes. This will show the child that they have the same responsibilities as everyone else in the house and make them feel like an active member of the family. You may also ask the child if they feel comfortable doing certain house chores. Give the child options and allow them to choose from two to three chores. This will give her or him the ability to decide what they feel most comfortable doing in their new environment. 10. **Discuss the child’s school options.** You should also sit down with the child and discuss their schooling. Most foster children will be required to enroll in school right away as it helps them adjust. You may ask the child if they will be okay going to the same school as the other children and if they had any special interests or needs at their previous school. You may also gently let the child know that they have to attend school and work hard in school to be a member of the household. Most foster children qualify for special benefits and assistance at school, depending on the school and state or area. 11. **Ask for the child’s input in family activities and plans.** You can also make the child feel welcome by asking for input on upcoming family trips or activities. This will help them feel like they have a voice in the house. Doing this can also allow you to get to know the child better, as they may suggest a surprising and interesting family activity or plan. Get them involved in the decision making in the home so they feels their opinion matters. 12. **Do not expect the child to fit in right away.** Remember that the child is likely frightened, uncomfortable, and confused when they walk into your home. They may also be angry or upset at being in a new environment. It is important that you are patient and understanding with the child. Give the child time to get used to the routines and habits of their new home. Over time, they should start to feel like they belong. As the child's new guardian, you may also need to reinforce feelings of welcome and comfort toward the child on a daily basis. You are building a relationship with the child over time, so focus on being understanding and considerate of the child’s needs. 13. **Support the child if they are required to go to therapy.** Most foster children will need to attend weekly therapy sessions with a therapist as part of their foster care. You may have the option of having school based therapy for the child or home based therapy. School based therapy happens at school, where the child is pulled out of class or lunch once a week for a therapy session. Home based therapy requires the therapist to visit the child once a week at home. Both options allow you to save time by not having to commute every week for the child’s sessions. It also gives you more time to spend with the child and more time for the child to spend with the family. If home based or school based therapy is not an option, you may have to take the child to therapy sessions at a facility or a therapy office. You should make a plan with the child so the therapy day is in their schedule. Try not to miss any of these appointments and bring the child to the sessions on time, as this will show that you are supporting the child's need for therapy. 14. **Focus on creating positive memories with the child.** Perhaps one of the biggest ways you can foster comfort and welcome is to focus on building memories that are positive for the child. You may take photographs of the child spending time with the family and with you. You may also document big moments in the child’s life, such as their first day at their new school or their first family outing. Doing this will help to build a long term relationship with the child that is positive and sustaining.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Welcome-a-Foster-Child", "language": "en"}

How to Help a Suicidal Family Member

Hearing a family member talk about suicide, or suspecting that they're thinking about it, is extremely difficult. Knowing how and when to help is a tough call, and being there for a depressed loved one can be very stressful. While there aren’t easy answers, you can help a suicidal family member if you recognize their risk for suicide, look for warning signs, and support them over time. 1. **Notice how they are acting.** A big change in behavior is one warning sign that someone may be considering suicide. Paying attention to how the person is acting can help you prevent their suicide. Sometimes people start acting recklessly when they are considering suicide. For example, if your dad starts riding his motorcycle without a helmet, he may be considering suicide. Look for signs like giving away possessions that they really care about. For example, if your cousin gives you her favorite necklace for no reason, she might be suicidal. Pay attention if they don’t seem interested in things they usually enjoy. For instance, if your aunt loves swimming, but suddenly stopped going for no reason, this might be a warning sign for suicide. 2. **Listen to what they are saying.** There are several phrases and comments your family member may say that are warning signs that they are considering suicide. You can help your suicidal family member by listening for signs of hopelessness or giving up. If your family member says things like, "I don’t have anything to live for" or "I'm just so tired of life" it is probably a sign they’re considering suicide. Listen for phrases that suggest your family member feels like the world would be better without them. For example, "Everyone is better off without me" or "It’ll be better if I’m just not here.” Notice if they say no one gets them or cares about them. For instance, comments like "No one cares or understands me" or "You don’t get me." 3. **Pay attention to their feelings.** You can help a suicidal family member if you notice when they seem to be having lots of feelings that may indicate suicide risk. Being aware of their feelings of depression, hopelessness, extreme frustration, and exhaustion can help you help your family member. For example, your brother used to be pretty calm and laid-back. Now he is grumpy, sensitive, and sad all the time. It might be a warning sign for suicide. You can ask how your family member is feeling by saying, “How have you been feeling lately? Have you been depressed or upset a lot?” If they mention having feelings of guilt, failure, hopelessness, depression, or anxiety, you should pay attention. Some people are more peaceful and less agitated when they are considering suicide because they think they’ve found a solution to their problems. 4. **Determine their intent.** If your family member is in the middle of a suicide crisis or you think they might be, you can help them by determining how serious they are about attempting suicide. Knowing their intent will help you decide the best thing to do to help. Let your family member know you care and ask them if they are thinking about suicide. You could say, “I’m concerned. Have you thought about suicide?” If they say they have thought about suicide, you should find out if they have thought about how, when, and where they will do it. You might ask, “Do you have a plan for how to do it? Do you already know when you will do it?” If you think they intend to attempt suicide soon, then don’t leave them alone. If you can’t stay, contact someone else to come stay. Don’t leave until the other person arrives. 5. **Use your 'CLUES'.** Remembering the acronym CLUES will help you know what to do if your family member is suicidal right now. It reminds you to connect (C) with your family member and listen (L) to them. It also reminds you to understand (U) their feelings, express (E) concern, and seek (S) help. 6. **Connect with your family member.** You can help your suicidal family member by letting them know that you care about them and are there for them. Connecting with them lets them know that someone realizes how bad things are for them and wants to help make it better. Connect with your family member by saying things like, “You may feel alone, but you aren’t. I’m here for you.” Don’t tell them that their problems aren’t that bad or that they should cheer up. It will make them feel like you don’t understand. Don’t ask them to explain the reasons for their feelings either because this may seem like you are minimizing their feelings. Just let them know that you are there for them. Try saying something like, “I know it’s really hard for you right now, and there aren’t any easy solutions. But we can work this out.” 7. **Listen to what they have to say.** You don’t have to talk to your family member a lot or say anything at all. Just being with them, giving them a chance to talk about how they are feeling, and listening to them will help them. Let your family member know they have your attention by getting rid of distractions. Cut the TV or music off. Put your electronic devices on silent. Keep your phone nearby in case you need to call for help, but don’t keep checking notifications. 8. **Understand their feelings.** Don’t try to offer advice or tell your family member what to do. Instead, put yourself in your suicidal family member’s shoes and think about how they are feeling so you understand what they are going through. Think to yourself, “How would I feel if I was in this situation? Can I understand how they might feel like they do?” You can tell your family member, “I know what it feels like to be discouraged. I can only imagine how hard it must be for you.” 9. **Express your concern for them.** You can help a suicidal family member simply by letting them know that you care about them, are worried about them, and want to help. Like connecting with your family member, expressing your concern is a way to show them you understand the seriousness of their feelings. Be sincere and genuine when you are talking to them. You can say, “I don’t know everything you are dealing with but I know that I want you around and that I love you.” You might say something like, “I’m concerned about you and want to help you with this situation.” 10. **Seek help for your family member.** If things get too out-of-hand and you think your family member is going to attempt suicide right now, then get help immediately. Even if your family member doesn’t want help, you should get it so that you can keep your family member safe and prevent them from attempting suicide. In the United States, you can call 911 or a crisis hotline like 1-800-442-4673, or 988. You can also message the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to talk to someone over text, or call your country's suicide prevention hotline if you're outside of the United States. A suicidal person can be taken to the emergency room if they might be in immediate danger or are hurting themselves. Tell your family member that you are worried and want to keep them safe so you are getting help. You might say, “I want to keep you safe and I know this is the best way to do that right now.” If you need to, then call for help without them knowing or text someone and tell them to call for help. If your loved one is seeing a mental health professional currently, then you may want to alert their therapist that you believe they are suicidal or encourage your loved one to call their therapist. 11. **Spend time with them.** The easiest way to determine your family member’s risk for suicide and see warning signs is to spend time with them. Being around them allows you the opportunity to notice what they are saying and how they are acting. It also gives you the chance to talk to them about things going on in their life. You can do something as simple as call or video chat with them. You can also spend time in person just by visiting them or hanging out for a little while. Ask them how their life is going in general. For instance, you might say, “How are things going? Anything major happened recently?” 12. **Ask about recent risks.** There are some stressors that can make it more likely that someone may attempt suicide. Asking your family member about these things can help you understand how at risk they may be for attempting suicide. Find out if anyone they care about has died recently. Death of a loved one, and in particular suicide, can put your family member at greater suicide risk. You might indirectly ask your family member about recent deaths by saying, “How is everyone doing? Are all your friends and family doing okay?” Ask about recent losses like a break-up, losing a job, or losing a title or position. For example, you could ask, “How’s school and your job going? How are you doing with basketball?” 13. **Find out about on-going and past risks.** Some things may be going on in your family member’s life that have been happening for a while that may put them at risk for suicide. There may also be some things in your family member’s past that put them at greater risk. Finding out about these things will help you prevent them from attempting suicide. Determine if they have attempted suicide before because this puts them at greater risk for trying it again. Find out whether your family member is being or has been abused, bullied, or victimized. If your family member has chronic pain or a mental illness they may view suicide as a way to end their suffering. Ask whether anyone else in the family has attempted or died by suicide. A family history of suicide can increase a person’s risk of attempting it. You might ask, “Has anyone in the family attempted or died from suicide that you know of?” You may also want to find out if they are taking any SSRI antidepressants because these can increase thoughts of suicide in some people. 14. **Form a support team.** Your family member may ask you not to tell anyone else what is going on. But, to help them, you need to let someone close to both of you know what is going on. Having a support team will make it less stressful for everyone involved and will make it easier to make sure the person isn’t suicidal anymore. Let your suicidal family member know that you want to tell someone else can help you all with the situation. You might say, “I’m not trying to tell everyone what is going on, but we do need to let someone else know so that they can help us with this.” Try to avoid going behind their back, but if the suicidal person is a child, is being abused, or if you’re under 18, you should definitely tell an adult you trust as soon as possible. If you have to, you can tell someone else without specifically mentioning suicide. For example, “My cousin is dealing with emotional stuff we need help with.” Recruit the help of a doctor or therapist as soon as possible, because they have the necessary training to deal with these situations. Support groups can also help with specific problems. Try looking online for support groups in your area, or ask your loved one’s doctor or therapist for support group recommendations. 15. **Create a safety plan for the suicidal person.** This plan helps your suicidal family member in a lot of ways. It lets you and the support team know what to do and who to call if your family member shows signs that they may be considering suicide again. Download or print a copy of Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s Suicide Prevention Safety Plan. Share it with the people on the support team Ask your family member to take part in creating their safety plan. This can help them know that people care about them. For example, you could say, “I’d like to put together a plan so that if you are feeling really bad again we’ll know how to handle it in advance.” If possible, get a therapist or doctor to help you create the plan. They will have great suggestions on how to make the plan the most effective. 16. **Check on your family member often.** Sometimes people will stop checking on their suicidal family member after the immediate threat is over. But your family member still needs support and still needs to know that you care. Checking on your suicidal family member also helps them by letting you know if something is wrong before the situation gets really bad again. Tell your family member, “I’m just checking in to see how things are going with you.” Spending time with them on a regular basis is a way to check on them without it seeming weird. Make sure that your loved one is not left alone for long periods of time because this may cause them to ruminate. Encourage them to keep a regular schedule and to see friends and family often. You don’t even have to mention suicide when you are checking on your family member. Just observe them and see if things seem okay. If you have a doctor or therapist on the support team, ask them if they can check-in with your suicidal family member on a regular basis. 17. **Promote healthy choices for your family member.** Emotional stress, like considering suicide, can cause physical problems. At the same time, some physical problems can cause a person to become so emotionally stressed that they consider suicide. You can help a suicidal family member by encouraging them to take care of their emotional and physical health. Talk to your family member about getting the right amount of sleep. You could say, “Make sure you’re getting six to eight hours of sleep, but don’t overdo it.” Promote physical activity by inviting your family member to go for a hike, a game of racquetball, or a quick tennis match. Encourage them to avoid drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with their feelings. Substance abuse can increase the chances that your family member will attempt suicide. Help your loved one come up with proactive solutions to their problems. For example, if their financial situation is driving their decision to take their life, then helping your loved one develop a plan to get out of debt, then this may help them to feel better about the situation. 18. **Remember to take care of yourself as well.** Supporting your loved one is important, but it can also be difficult to focus on your own well-being as well. Be sure to practice self-care so you don’t feel stressed and to help you understand your own needs. If you develop a plan and you still feel like you’re overwhelmed physically or emotionally, try finding professional help to guide you through any difficult times.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Help-a-Suicidal-Family-Member", "language": "en"}

How to Install Peel and Stick Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a durable alternative to hardwood or tile, and it's more economical. It's also easy to install on your own. While vinyl is usually installed by spreading an adhesive on the floor first, peel and stick planks have adhesive on them already so you can put them in one at a time. If you're not sure where to start, don't worry. This article will walk you through the entire process step-by-step. 1. **Remove any baseboards** Locate the nails along your baseboards that are holding them in place and position the angled side of a pry bar on the baseboard above one of them. Lift the other end of the pry bar so it forces the board away from the wall and pulls the nail out. Work down the entire length of the baseboard and prying out each nail individually so the pieces don’t break. You may also have to remove your floor vents if you have any in the room. 2. **Remove the old flooring to access the subfloor.** The way you remove the old flooring depends on what you currently have in your room. If you have carpet, use your pry bar to lift the edges of the carpeting and pad so you can easily remove it. If you’re taking out tiles, chisel out the old tiles and scrape off adhesives stuck on your subfloor. To remove linoleum or existing vinyl, slide the end of a vinyl floor scraper under the seams to lift up the pieces. You can install vinyl planks over other types of hard flooring, like existing vinyl, linoleum, or tiles, if it’s completely level and flush. However, you need to remove the existing flooring if you want a fresh start. 3. **Install ⁄4 in (0.64 cm) luan plywood over a wood subfloor.** Luan plywood has a smooth surface and makes it easier to lay your planks on top. Get enough ⁄4 in (0.64 cm) luan to cover the entire floor in your room and apply a thin layer of flooring adhesive on the back side. Press the luan plywood onto your floor, and staple or nail the board down every 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) so it stays in place. The existing plywood for your subfloor may have various dents or wear that will show through your planks when you install them. Make sure the nails or staples you use to secure the luan is flush or lower than the surface of the plywood so they don’t form any bumps. 4. **Put a leveling compound on a low concrete or ceramic floor.** Stir the leveling compound and then scoop some into a low spot on your floor with a flat trowel. Spread the compound out around the area with the edges of your trowel so it’s flat on the ground. Let the compound dry for 24 hours before checking the area with a level to see if you fixed it. You can buy leveling compound from your local hardware or home improvement store. You may apply the leveling compound just in the low areas or you can apply it to the entire subfloor to ensure it’s level. Contact professional flooring specialists if you notice large cracks or damage since there may be deeper problems causing them. 5. **Sand or grind any raised areas of the subfloor until it’s level.** Lay a level across your floor to see if it’s perfectly flat. If you notice raised areas on your plywood or luan, then use a belt sander or a sanding block with 80- to 120-grit sandpaper to get a smooth finish. If you’re working on a concrete subfloor, use a concrete grinder to smooth the area out. Check multiple times with your level while you’re working to see if you’ve removed enough material. Wear safety glasses while working with a sander or grinder so you don’t get any of the dust or debris in your eyes. You can usually buy or rent sanders and grinders from your local hardware store. Contact a few stores ahead of time to see if there are any available that you can use. 6. **Sweep the subfloor to get rid of any dust.** Dust prevents the adhesive on your planks from sticking well to your subfloor or underlayment. After you’ve leveled your floor completely, use a broom to sweep away any dust or debris that you made. Go over the area 2-3 times with your broom or until you don’t see any more dust when you’re finished sweeping. Don’t keep any windows open in the room where you’re installing your vinyl since dust and particles could blow in and make the room dirty again. 7. **Find the area of the room where you’re installing the vinyl flooring.** Start your tape measure in the corner of your room and extend it for the full length to the other corner. Then, find the width of your room from one of the side walls to the other. Multiply your length and width measurements together to find the total area of your room. For example, if the length of your room is 11 feet (3.4 m) and the width is 13 feet (4.0 m), then the total area is 143 square feet (13.3 m). If you have an oddly shaped room, try breaking it into multiple rectangular shapes. Find the areas of the individual rectangles and add them together to find the total area. 8. **Measure the size of one of the vinyl planks.** Check the length and the width of one of the vinyl planks you plan on installing. Use your tape measure or a ruler to take your measurements. Multiply the length and the width together to find the area of a single plank. For example, if the length of your plank is 2 ⁄2 feet (0.76 m) and the width is ⁄2 foot (0.15 m), then the total area of each plank is 1 ⁄4 square feet (0.12 m). Vinyl planks usually have a width between 6–11 inches (15–28 cm). 9. **Divide the area of the room by the plank’s area to find out how many you need.** Take the area of the room and divide it by the area of a single plank. When you solve the equation, you’ll know how many planks can fit on your floor. Get 10% more planks than you need so you have extras to use if you make a mistake later on. For example, if the area of the room is 143 square feet (13.3 m) and the area of a plank is 1 ⁄4 square feet (0.12 m), then you would need 115 planks total for your floor. With 10% extra, you would need 126 planks. 10. **Snap chalk lines through the center of your room so it’s split into 4 equal sections.** Measure down the length of your room again until you reach the halfway point and make a mark. Stretch a chalk line across your room and snap it against your floor. Then, measure across the width of your room up to the halfway point and snap another chalk line on the mark. Your room will be divided into 4 quarters with the chalk lines intersecting in the center of your room. Starting in the center of your room makes the planks look more even and reduces the chance that you need to cut narrow strips of your planks later on. 11. **Lay a row of planks on the longest chalk line to see how they fit.** Place one of your planks in one of the corners made by the intersection of your chalk lines. Line up the longest side of the plank with the longest chalk line to enhance the look of your room. Add more planks to the end of the first one, making sure the seams are tight against one another. Start making additional rows of planks to see how they fit in your room. You can snap chalk lines or trace around your planks if you want to know exactly where to place them later on, but it’s not required. If your planks have arrows on the back, make sure they all point the same direction when you install them or else the pattern won’t look consistent. 12. **Peel the backing paper off of the first plank you’re laying.** Flip the first plank over so it’s face down and grab the corner of the backing paper. Slowly peel the paper off of the plank, being careful not to touch the adhesive. Once you remove the backing paper, throw it away so it isn’t in the way later on. Don’t take the backing paper off of a plank until you’re ready to install it since the adhesive could get covered in dust and not stick as well. If you have trouble peeling the corner of the backing paper, carefully separate the plank and paper with a razor blade or utility knife until you can get a good grip. 13. **Press the plank into one of the corners made by the center lines.** Flip the plank over so the patterned side is face-up, and be careful not to touch the adhesive. Align the plank so it’s flush against one of the corners where the chalk lines intersect. Once you have it lined up, set it against the floor and rub it down with the side of your hand so it sticks in place. Press it down firmly so the edges and corners don’t lift up from the floor. You can also start your planks against one of your walls if you want, but you may have to cut your planks into narrow strips later on if they don’t fit and your room won’t look as balanced. 14. **Line up the ends of the planks to complete a row.** After you place your first plank, take the backing paper off of the next one you want to place. Line up the short ends of the planks and ensure the long edges are flush with one another. Press the second plank into place with the side of your hand, and continue adding more planks to finish your row. Use the chalk line as a guide to ensure your first row is straight. 15. **Cut planks** Measure the distance from the end of the last plank in your row to the wall. Set your vinyl plank face-up on a safe cutting surface and transfer your measurement onto it. Drag a sharp utility knife along the mark you made 3-4 times to score it. Grab the edge of the plank and pull it up to snap off the piece you need. Peel the backing paper off the plank piece you cut and install it on the end of the row so the cut edge is against the wall. Always line up the cut edge of the vinyl plank against your wall since your cut may not perfectly line up with the edges of the other planks. Peel and stick vinyl flooring doesn’t expand so you can place it directly against the wall without leaving a gap. 16. **Stagger the rows of planks so the seams are offset by halves or thirds.** Don’t line up the seams on your floor when you start your second row since it can make your floor look unnatural and affect the pattern. Move the first plank of your second row so it’s ½ or ⅓ of its length offset from the end of one of the planks in your first row. With each additional row you add, offset the ends of each plank to hide the seams better. For example, if your planks are 3 feet (0.91 m) long, then place the end of the plank in your second row 1–1 ⁄2 feet (0.30–0.46 m) from the end of the first plank in your first row. 17. **Flatten the planks with a floor roller so they firmly adhere to the subfloor.** After you install all of the planks in your room, rent a floor roller from your local hardware store or buy a handheld one to use. Press the roller onto the planks and walk it across the length of your room. The roller will force out any air bubbles under the vinyl and make it adhere better.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Peel-and-Stick-Vinyl-Plank-Flooring", "language": "en"}

How to Create a Mobile App

The mobile app industry has already crossed the critical figure of billion dollars. Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices make a considerable chunk of internet users. The determining factor for the success of an app is the quality and user experience. 1. **Make new user your benchmark for design.** The design should be simple enough for a new user to navigate easily. Test your app with a few friends or ideally a larger group of people who are not well versed in cell phone use. See how they perform, where they get stuck, are these intuitive, attractive and fun to use? Change your design accordingly. Similarly, people who are less educated and young users (kids) are a big market sector. The design must be intuitive enough to help them use your app without hassle. 2. **Keep different operating systems in mind.** Mobile internet market is divided among different operating systems. Consider these differences before designing the app. Use responsive design to ensure that your app appears as intended throughout different platforms and operating systems. For making an app for Android your need and for making an iOS app you can use . 3. **Make sure your app works across different platforms seamlessly.** Use responsive design strategy to create an app that is flexible and customizable for different platforms. Responsive design refers to the idea that app or website changes its layout, fonts, and graphics according to the hosting device. Don't go for the strategy of creating a trimmed down version of your site for cell phones. Instead, first build the site for the small screen and then enlarge it for the bigger screens. 4. **Don't ignore grids.** The grid is an excellent tool to keep your app design consistent and on the track across multiple pages. Consistency in graphics, fonts, and icons create a professional look. Not to mention, it reflects your brand image. 5. **Don't forget the offline experience.** Not all areas have network coverage. Decide on offline usability factor of your app. Make sure that most of the features in your app work during offline sessions. In some parts of the world power outages are a regular feature of daily life, so ideally your app would be usable even if you don't have an internet connection. For making an offline experience, you need to learn serverless computing. It will be helping you in creating an offline software application. 6. **Decide what your goal is.** Clearly, set your objective about your app objective. E.g., Find petrol stations on a highway in a particular state or country. The best apps are those that solves a big problem. So if you find it hard to pick a goal, think about your problem first. 7. **Do some paperwork.** Visualize how your app will look on the screen. Draw a rough diagram of screens or skins. What are the functions and everything in between? 8. **Research the market.** Know if your idea is already used. Find out what users are looking for? How to tap the market financially? Chalk out a marketing plan. Marketing isn't the last step in app making. It should be taken along in every step i.e., pre-production, production, and post-production. 9. **Storyboard.** Storyboarding helps you have a blueprint of app functionality. Similar to storyboarding for movies, the more elaborate storyboard is, the more lucid the process becomes. 10. **Make a prototype or wireframe.** Prototyping tools let you see and test your app in real time. You can check and modify accordingly. Ask your friends and family to check your app and give feedback. Incorporate their feedback in your modifications. 11. **Build the backend.** Now after testing the prototype, begin your work on the backend. It is the developer's' side of the application. It includes storage, APIs, setup servers, and databases. 12. **Get registered.** App store requires you to get registered as a developer. You don't need to be expert in programming but it requires a fee. Check out the sites for more info. 13. **Skin/Screen it.** It is the actual creation of the skins or screens that the users will use. You make UI at this stage. 14. **Consider using an app builder service.** App making usually requires a lot of hard work and money. Not all can afford it. Here is a solution. You can use app builder platforms abundantly found on the web. They start from free and go to monthly/yearly subscription. Moreover, they don't need you writing code. They offer graphical user interface. You just need to drag, drop, upload photos, checkboxes, and your app is complete. Bingo! 15. **Search app builder online.** There are numerous sites offering app building services. Go through some and read content and testimonials. Consider intuitive and easy interface. Some offer free services while others charge fees. 16. **Sign up.** Make sure you have read the above section on digging deeper. Do some paperwork and visualization before starting the process. Storyboard how your screens and functions are going to work. 17. **Start building your app.** Most of the sites are very easy to use. Anyone with some basic knowledge of computers and internet can do it easily. 18. **Apply the "Setting the Benchmark" tips.** Read the above section titled "Setting the Benchmark". Your app should have enough features that work offline. Make an intuitive design, so new users can use it easily. 19. **Consider visual elements.** Consider text, typography, colors, icons, tabs, etc, beforehand to give a consistent look. 20. **Do it yourself if you're game.** The famous apps and websites are results of coders' blood, sweat, and tears. You can't get all the features with app building sites. So if you have some brilliant idea for an app, learning to code isn't bad. This is the usual way of making apps: 21. ** Learn programming** The basic languages a programmer should know are: C, C++ , Objective-C, JavaScript, HTML5, CSS,C#, Swift, ReactJS, PHP, Node.js,and Ruby. You may learn additional. That is a bonus. However, master a couple of languages and learn the basics of others. Either get admission in a college or learn online through tutorials and videos. No dearth of either! 22. **Get a system.** Research the market to get an appropriate system for your work. 23. **Apply tips given above.** Read the above sections: Setting the Benchmark and Digging Deeper. The first sections are the tips by ace developers. The later outlines the basics of successful app making. 24. **Build the environment.** Set the environment for app development. Install the environment according to your system and app. 25. **Create your app.** After you have thoroughly done paperwork and you have clear cut idea of look and functions employing the tips given above, now begin coding. Create project source code, resource files, manifest files. 26. **Debug and test.** During this stage, you build your app in a debuggable package. Use SDK tools for a testing app. 27. **Publish and test.** During this phase, you once again check your app in release mode. 28. **Recheck.** Now the actual app is ready. Check it using app test app (there are apps for checking apps). 29. **Publish.** You can either publish it directly through your iTunes or Google Play app stores developer account or submit it to the site you used to build it. Now, wait and create buzz about your app. 30. **Market your app.** The marketing process you started from pre-production through research and continue with a blog and social media, now gets momentum. Make microsite for your app. Use promotional videos. Advertise on social media. Run some contest or other marketing tactics to gain attention. You should have a business model too.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Mobile-App", "language": "en"}

How to Be Led by the Holy Spirit

Paul said in Acts 23:1 that he always followed his conscience. Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, "My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day." And in I Timothy 4:2 Paul said that a sign of the last times is that people would not follow their conscience; "paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron,..." (I Timothy 4:2)This article explains how to say a good prayer, keep on loving God and Jesus and be led by the Holy Spirit. 1. **Recognize that the primary way that God will lead you is through your conscience and the Bible (Romans 8:14-16, John 17:17).** Even Jesus followed His conscience (Mark 2:8). You should follow Him first before expecting your prayers being met. John 15:7 says, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." 2. **Avoid all that sinful.** For your conscience to be a good guide, you must avoid associating with sinners or it will contaminate your spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). 3. **Ask God for Guidance (Jeremiah 33:3, James 1:5, John 16:13).** 1 John 5:14-15 says, "And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us..." You can pray for wisdom (Ephesians 1:17). James 1:5 shows that God wants you to have wisdom and He wants you to have it in abundance but you must ask in faith. 4. **Be still (Psalms 46:10).** You don't have to be on your knees. God gets your prayer anyway, though you must be in a state of reverence. 5. **Address Jesus.** Start with saying, "Dear God," or "Dear Lord" 6. **Ask what He would like you to do.** You must show willingness to leave everything for Jesus just like Abraham showed willingness to give his only son to God. God happily gave his son back to him. But a certain wealthy man turned away when he asked Jesus and Jesus told him to sell all he has. He denied Jesus. James 4:3 says, "Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss..." 7. **Ask for forgiveness for your sins.** You can then end with, "In Jesus name I pray. Amen" 8. **Allow silence.** The next type of leading is when God is silent. This is where I do not have any leading in my conscience. God is saying, "Wait it is not His timing or it is not His will." In I Kings 13, the younger prophet lost his life when he proceeded without a leading from God. 9. **Find God's peace.** The next type of leading is the green light where you feel joy or peace or God's presence. This is God saying, "Yes" and sometimes it comes with a revelation as to what to do (like Acts 16 and Acts 27), you just know supernaturally what to do inside your conscience. 10. **Renew your mind as spoken to you.** Renew your thoughts and desires with the Word of God as that will help you to mature (Roman 12:2) and make better decisions.You must be able to perceive the No's before you actually get guidance (I Corinthians 14:10, Acts 16:6-7, Acts 27:10). Paul says that there are many voices in the world and they all have their significance. There is the voice of diet, exercise, education, mastering a trade, but what is God telling you to do? When you perceive a "No", you may not usually feel good inside. God is trying to warn you that if you proceed, there will be danger or failure. 11. **Thank Him for His blessings.** Praise Jesus as you feel a sudden positivity. Do not hate God if your prayer is not answered the way you wanted! God has your whole life planned. Keep on following what is true and evaluate if your journey thus far has been blessed outside of your effort.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Led-by-the-Holy-Spirit", "language": "en"}

How to Import, Graph, and Label Excel Data in MATLAB

Whether you are an experienced MATLAB user or a novice, you may not be fully aware of MATLAB's graphing abilities. MATLAB allows you to easily customize, label, and analyze graphs, giving you more freedom than the traditional Excel graph. In order to utilize MATLAB's graphing abilities to the fullest, though, you must first understand the process for importing data. This instruction set will teach you how to import and graph excel data in MATLAB. 1. **Open a fresh MATLAB Screen.** To make the process of importing and graphing data easier, clear any text in the command window with the command . 2. **Open your desired Excel file.** Be sure to record the name of the Excel file for later use. 3. **Save the Excel file into your MATLAB folder.** The pathway for the folder typically is: . Be sure you save the file as an Excel Workbook in order to have the proper file format for the import. Once this step is complete, you should see your Excel file in the current folder section in MATLAB. 4. **Locate the columns that will be exported.** Identify the range of each column to be exported. The range of the column is the first cell in a column to the last cell in a column. The proper format for this range is the first cell followed by a colon followed by the last cell (I.e. “B1:B30”) 5. **Import the data columns to MATLAB.** Enter the command into the command window for each column you want to import. In this command: Var is a variable name of your choice (Example: “x” or “y”) Filename is the name of your excel spreadsheet Xlrange is the range of the desired column in the form “X--:X--“,with X being the letter of the column followed by the cell number. 6. **Create a graph.** Enter the command in the command window. In this command, indep is the independent variable and dep1 and dep2 are the dependent variables. If you wish to graph more than two dependent variables, follow the same format and add a dep3 variable. If you wish to graph only one dependent variable, only graph the first pair of x and y values (Example: plot(x, y1)). 7. **Change the line color.** Enter the command into the command window to change all the graphed lines to the same color. In this command, p is a reference to the variable you set your plot equal to in step 6. If you wish to change the color of only one line enter into the command line. The x in p(x) is the number that corresponds to the order that the lines are plotted in (Example: y1 = p(1), y2 = p(2)). 8. **Change the line style.** Enter the command into the command window to change all of the graphed lines to the same style. If you wish to change the style of one line only, enter the command into the command line. In this command, the x in p(x) corresponds to the number in which the lines were graphed (Example: y1 = p(1), y2 = p(2)). Common line styles include: dashed lines= '--' dotted lines = ':' solid line = '-' dash-dot line = '-.' 9. **Label your axis.** To label the x-axis, enter the command in the command window. To label the y-axis, enter the command in the command window. 10. **Add a title to your graph.** Enter the command in the command window. The title will display at the top of your graph. 11. **Add text within the graph.** If you wish to enter text near your graphed lines, enter the command . Once you enter the command, a cursor will appear on the graph allowing you to click the area you wish to apply the label. The label can be put anywhere in the graph space. 12. **Add grid lines to the graph.** If you wish to put grid lines in your plot for easier reading, enter the command into the command window. Entering the command again will remove the grid lines. 13. **Save your graph.** Click on upper right hand side of the MATLAB graph screen followed by in the menu. Save the graph to the desired location.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Import,-Graph,-and-Label-Excel-Data-in-MATLAB", "language": "en"}

How to Start a Car Insurance Company

Since car insurance is required to drive in most places, and since driving continues to increase in popularity, demand for car insurance companies continues to rise as well. If you can come up with the investment capital, and are looking to get in the business of making money by offering a service that fulfills a legal requirement levied upon everyone who drives, starting a car insurance company may be right for you. 1. **Obtain a property and casualty insurance license from your state.** This license allows you to legally sell car insurance in the state in which you hope to operate your business, and ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to do so. Attend a pre-licensing course. You will likely be required to takes courses covering both insurance and ethics. These courses will be specific to the state in which you are hoping to acquire a license. Most are available online and can be completed at your own pace, but do require courses fees. Take a state-administered exam. This is required to obtain an insurances license in most states. Find out what the requirements are for your state from its department of insurance (which sometimes go by various names). They will also notify you of the financial and other requirements related to licensing. Some states will allow you to transfer your license from state to state. 2. **Construct a business plan for your car insurance company.** Your business plan should outline how you'll attract customers, which insurance carriers you'll work with, and what your start-up costs are expected to be, as well as your projected income for the first few years of business. Of course, there are some simpler decisions to make as well. Choose the specific location of your business. You must know the state or states in which you intend to operate to get an insurance license. Determine the actual city in which you will locate your business as well. This will help you start to consider whether you will be buying, leasing, or building an office. Know that the specifics of your business plan are likely to change as you begin to build your business. One immediate necessity of an insurance company is the ability to determine risk when insuring your clients. (Larger companies, with whom you may be able to partner or purchase information from, will have the best access to this sort of information and the cutting-edge technologies with which it is derived.) 3. **Be prepared to offer as much as possible to your customers.** The more policies you have, the more policy options and different rates you can offer your clients. You can even sell policies offered by other larger insurance providers. Be sure to offer liability insurance, collision insurance, and comprehensive insurance, as well as multi-car insurance policies and umbrella policies. Diminish unanticipated surprises by getting advice on your business plan from lawyers, accountants, public relations professionals, and other business people as early as you’re able to do so. Develop strong relationships with contacts at other insurance providers and carriers, at all levels of the industry. These people, who you should treat as both professional peers and as friends, will likely become key avenues of information, if not formal business partners. Research what’s available independently. Familiarize yourself with all of the plans you will have the capability to offer (both when you open and as you grow), as well as what it will take to offer them. Some of these will necessitate cooperation with other insurance businesses. The sooner you know who you need to work with, and who you would like to work with in the future, the better you can develop those relationships. 4. **Consider purchasing an existing car insurance agency.** Business acquisition has the advantages of saving time, acquiring an existing customer base, and avoiding startup costs. There are always opportunities to franchise or partner with successful insurance companies as well. Purchasing or buying into an existing company is both easier and more reliable than starting your own business – in part because the business plan is already developed and has likely been put into effect. Build your own brand to have full control of your insurance company by starting from scratch. Add an insurance company to your business portfolio by buying a franchise or partnering with an established insurance agency. 5. **Know the cost of starting a car insurance company.** You need to have a good idea of how much it will cost to get the company up and running. There’s no benchmark amount that is required to start a car insurance company. Your business model, your location, your experience, and your business partnerships will all greatly affect this figure. There are guaranteed expenses associated with licensing, which can be quite substantial – figures in some states can reach several hundreds of thousands of dollars. While you may be able to fully license your company for under $100,000, recognize that costs such as rent, your own salary, and other necessary expenses can quickly add up. Contact the Small Business Administration (SBA) for information regarding the likely costs you will incur in starting a business, and for help securing the funding to do so. 6. **Secure sufficient financing to get your business running.** If you're planning to run your car insurance company as a full-time job, you will likely need to secure financing to do so. This will likely require either a loan or investment capital from private investors to cover your start-up costs and living expenses until you start generating revenue. Whereas banks are sometimes hesitant offering new business loans, the SBA exists specifically to help start and run small businesses. Reach out to any personal connections you have in the business world. Private investors can be a great source of investment capital. Have a carefully prepared proposal ready when you apply for financing. This should contain details including the total capital you require, the salary you intend to pay yourself, and other initial expenses for the first few years. This will help potential financiers assess the risk involved in a potential loan or investment. 7. **Acquire a business license and insure the business itself.** In order to sell insurance, you need to register in the city in which you tend to do business. You also need to get a business license from the city. Fill out all necessary applications and pay the associated fees. While it is unlikely that you will have to undergo any further testing or coursework, there will certainly be paperwork and necessary payments. If you intend to hire employees or hope to incorporate your business, you will also need to acquire an agency license. 8. **Revisit and finalize your business plan.** Other aspects of your long term business plan will necessitate identifying customers and the specific sales strategies that will appeal to them, hiring qualified employees, and identifying competitors. Once it feels like you’re ready to go, there are likely a few more things to do. Be sure you’ve met all legal requirements and have protected yourself and your business. Purchase liability and property insurance for your car insurance company to protect your assets in case of a natural disaster, an accident, and to protect from losses associated with lawsuits. Finalize which specific insurance policies you want to sell. Though much of this will have been determined by this point, you may realize you have more of a capacity to differentiate options than you had previously thought. Again, be sure you’re equipped to provide as much as possible to your customers. For instance, consider selling insurance for special niches, such as vintage car insurance, motorcycle insurance, and RV insurance. 9. **Market your car insurance company.** You need to be able to identify and contact potential clients. Advertising is a necessity, and it’s worth reaching out to people you know. The keys to marketing are identifying your target market, noting what makes your products unique, and developing a strategy to communicate the reasons to purchase insurance from your company. Advertise in local publications, at driving schools, at the DMV, and online. Contact family members, friends, business associates and everyday acquaintances to notify them of your new business. Emphasize – in both conversations and all marketing materials – opportunities for potential clients to save money by switching to an insurance policy offered by your company.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Car-Insurance-Company", "language": "en"}

How to Hang a Dartboard Cabinet

Whether you play darts as a casual pastime or you’re a pro at hitting the bullseye, sooner or later one of your darts is going to miss. To avoid damaging your wall or bending your dart tips, it’s a good idea to hang your dartboard in a cabinet. Luckily, installing your own dartboard cabinet is easy. 1. **Make sure there's at least 8 feet (2.4 m) between the board and throwing area.** You'll need about 8 feet (2.4 m) between yourself and the board, plus additional space to account for your arm movements while you throw. Just in case a stray dart misses goes way off course, don't hang your dartboard cabinet near any valuable paintings or close to anything fragile. 2. **Measure the wall to make sure the cabinet will fit when it's open.** Don't just measure the width of your cabinet when it's closed, or else the doors might be obstructed when the cabinet is fully unfolded. 3. **Measure a height of 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m) for a regulation board.** Regulation height for the bullseye of a dartboard is 5’8”, or 68 inches (1.7 m). If you're playing on a league or you just want to go by the official rules, hang your cabinet so your bullseye will be at this exact spot. 4. **Measure so that the bullseye is at eye level if you are just playing for fun.** If you're not concerned with having a regulation board, you can adjust the cabinet to a height that will be comfortable for you. Centering the cabinet so the bullseye will be at about eye level. 5. **Use a stud finder** Slide the stud finder across the wall until it indicates that it has detected a stud. Once you've found the first stud, mark it with an X at the height you decided on for your bullseye. 6. **Locate the next stud.** You'll need to anchor your cabinet in 2 studs to make sure it's secure. You can either use the stud finder again or you can measure 16 inches (41 cm) from the first spot, since that is the standard width between studs. Mark this spot with a pencil as well. 7. **Use wall anchors to secure your dartboard if you can't find studs.** If you don’t have a stud finder or if there are no studs where you want to hang your board, you will need to use wall anchors to attach your cabinet to the wall. These are plastic or metal pieces which you place into the wall so the screws have something to attach to. Depending on the style of anchor you choose, you may have to drill a hole first, or they may be self-drilling. 8. **Center the cabinet over your studs at the bullseye mark.** Most cabinets are made so that the bullseye will be located at the center of the cabinet. If this is the case, the mark you made to indicate your dartboard's height will be the center of your cabinet. Center the cabinet, then use your pencil again to mark where the pre-drilled screw holes are located. 9. **Use a level to make sure the cabinet hangs straight.** You can purchase a level at a hardware store, or you can download a levelling app on your smartphone. Simply place the level on the top of the cabinet and adjust the angle until the indicator on the level is in the middle. If you are using a laser level, attach it to the wall and hang the cabinet so the top is parallel to the laser line. 10. **Drill holes if your cabinet doesn't have them.** Most dartboard cabinets come with pre-drilled holes for easy installation. In your cabinet, if your cabinet doesn’t have pre-drilled holes for the wall screws, you will need to drill 4 holes, one near each corner. Make sure the distance between the holes doesn't exceed 16 inches (41 cm) or you might not be able to anchor the cabinet in your studs. 11. **Use screws to mount the cabinet to the studs in the walls.** Most dartboard cabinets come with all of the hardware you will need to mount it. Use a cordless drill to secure the cabinet using the provided screws. 12. **Use a #8 screw if your cabinet doesn’t have screws with it.** A #8 screw, also known as a ⁄32 inch (4.0 mm), is a standard screw for installation projects. Look for one in about a 2” (51mm) length. 13. **Adjust the cabinet as needed.** After you hang your cabinet, check it again with the level and measure the height of the bullseye. If you need to make any adjustments, remove the screws, shift the cabinet until it's in the right location, then resecure the cabinet with the screws.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Hang-a-Dartboard-Cabinet", "language": "en"}

How to Grow Yams

Yams are delicious, healthy, and fairly simple to grow. While this particular crop tends to thrive in tropical climates, it is easy to grow yams in colder climates with the right planning and forethought. You can grow your own sprouts and slips to plant, and then grow, harvest, and cure yams. 1. **Start growing the sprouts.** Yams aren't grown from seeds like most other vegetables - they grow from slips, which are derived from the sprouts of adult yams. To grow sprouts, cut a yam in half and submerge one portion in a glass of cool water. Insert toothpicks at three points around the middle of the yam and suspend it over the container, half-submerged in the water. Make sure the yam you choose looks healthy. If you notice discoloration or lesions on the skin, your yam could be diseased, which means its sprouts could be diseased, too. Choose a yam variety like TDA 291 or TDA 297 that is resistant to Scorch, a fungal disease that causes spots and lesions. 2. **Keep the sprouts warm.** The growth process requires warmth, so place the glass near a heat source. If possible, position the glass near a window so that the sprouting yam gets sunlight as well. Otherwise, place it near a heater to absorb warmth that way. 3. **Let sprouts develop.** Refill the water in jars or glasses if necessary to keep the submersion level of the yam consistent. Wait for sprouts to form on the yam; this will take a few weeks. Once sprouts are leafy, take each one and gently twist it off of the yam. Each yam can produce up to 50 sprouts. 4. **Root the slips.** Lay each sprout in a shallow container, with the bottom half of the stem submerged in water. Allow the leaves to hang out over the rim of the container. Over the course of a few days, you should see roots emerging from the bottom of each sprout. When the roots are about an inch long, they are then slips that are ready to be planted. Slips can also be purchased online. 5. **Loosen the soil.** To ensure that the roots don't meet resistance as they expand, make sure that the soil is very loose and well-drained where you want to plant the yams. When the ground starts to dry in the springtime, till the soil approximately 8 to 12 inches deep and remove debris (i.e. rocks, root pieces, etc.). Spread compost or manure over the soil and till it approximately 8 inches into the ground, to improve the soil's structure.Rake the area, spray it with water, and let it sit for 2 or 3 days before planting. 6. **Make space.** Ensure that you have enough room to accommodate the slips that you'll be planting. Large tubers need a lot of space to grow, as do the vines of the plants, which grow vigorously. Ideally, you should leave approximately a meter of space between each plant. 7. **Wait for the right temperature.** Yams do not grow well in cold temperatures, so it's best to wait until a few weeks after the last frost to plant your slips. Mid spring is the ideal time to do so. Yams require a long growing season, so don't wait too long into the spring or summer to get started. 8. **Bury the slips into the soil.** Dig holes about 4" or 5" deep and 3" wide (approximately 10 or 12 cm deep and 7-8 cm wide). Place slips in the holes (dug about 8 to 10 inches apart), positioned with the roots pointing down and the leafy tops above the soil. Very gently fill the holes with soil, being careful not to jostle or bruise the slips too much. Press soil down lightly to get rid of any air pockets. 9. **Water the plants generously.** Newly planted slips should be watered every day the first week, every second day the second week, and less and less as they grow. Be generous in hydrating them but pay careful attention to the crop to avoid waterlogging. Yams thrive in sunlight, so if the soil gets dry, adjust the watering schedule accordingly. 10. **Fertilize the plants.** Use a fertilizer during the growth period to help improve the state of the produce. Purchase a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen, an element which can compromise root development, and is high in phosphorus. It is best to fertilize the crop every two to four weeks. 11. **Stake** Yam plant vines are not sturdy and require support in order to produce a large yield. Keep an eye on the plants and stake the mounds approximately 4 weeks after the vines first emerge. Use bamboo canes as support for these yam vines, which can grow up to 10 ft. 12. **Watch out for diseases.** Your yams may fall prey to different pests and diseases from time to time. Keep an eye out for the following conditions when growing your yams and choosing your sprouts: Yam mosaic disease. Caused by aphids, this condition results in yellow and light green discoloration on the leaves. To prevent this disease, keep the growing area free of weeds and use disease-free slips. If you notice diseased plants, remove them immediately. Dry rot disease. This condition causes light yellow lesions on the outer skin, eventually turning the entire yam black. Use disease-free slips to prevent dry rot. If your yams have this disease, soak them in hot water for an hour post-harvest to lessen the effects. Mealy bugs. This insect looks like a white, cotton-like oval. Mealy bugs can hinder growth and attract ants. Treat mealy bugs by removing infected plants and using insecticide sprays for large infestations. White scale insects. These insects create tiny white scales on the skin of yams and can slow growth. Treat infected plants with insecticidal soap. 13. **Keep an eye on the plants.** Yams typically take about 14 weeks to mature. They should be harvested when the tops of plants start to go yellow and wither. Harvesting generally occurs in autumn. 14. **Remove yams from the soil.** Use a pitchfork or similar gardening implement to gently dig into the soil and remove the tubers from under the surface. Start digging a safe distance from the stem. Be careful not to pierce the skin of the yams when removing them from the ground. 15. **Cure your yams.** Refrain from washing yams after harvesting. Instead, sort yams into boxes or baskets to cure them before storage. Curing can be done in approximately 2 weeks. To do so, place yams in a warm, dark place with some ventilation and leave them undisturbed. This process will allow bruising and wounds on the yams to heal, and seal out rot bacteria. 16. **Store your yams.** Once harvested, yams can be kept for several months. Store yams in a cool, dry spot like a kitchen cabinet. There are multiple ways to cook yams, so look up yam recipes and enjoy the fruits (or root vegetables) of your gardening.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Yams", "language": "en"}

How to Be a Loner in School

Not everybody likes to join others and be social during school. Being a loner in school means you don’t want to make friends or interact with your peers. To be a loner, keep to yourself, use the right body language, and focus on your interests. 1. **Keep to yourself at school functions.** If you have to go to school functions, like a pep rally or assembly, sit by yourself if you can. Sit at the back of the room if possible. You may want to put on headphones and listen to music, read a book, or play on your phone. If you can, try to get out of going to school functions. But don’t skip it if you are going to get in trouble. 2. **Sit alone at lunch.** Lunch is one of the most common times during the school day where people socialize. However, if you want to be a loner, you should sit alone if you can. Try sitting at a table by yourself or on the floor, if your school allows that. If you cannot sit in an area by yourself, sit at the end of a table with people you don't know. Find solitary activities to do during lunch. For example, you can draw, read, or listen to music. If your school will allow it, go to the library or a teacher's classroom where you can eat lunch alone. If your school has open lunch, you can go up town to restaurants and other places to eat lunch or you can go home if you live close to the school. 3. **Keep to yourself during physical education.** P.E. is another time during the school day where people try to talk to you and get you involved. Keep to yourself during P.E. If you have a choice of activity, consider walking, running, or lifting weights alone. If you are allowed, put on your headphones and listen to music. If your teacher makes you participate with others, do what you have to do well in the class. Play basketball or volleyball on the team, but don't go out of your way to talk to people. If your teacher will allow you to, sit on the bleachers or off to the side whenever you can. 4. **Avoid starting conversations with people.** Loners keep to themselves and don’t go out of their way to talk to other students. This means you wouldn’t go up to someone and start talking to them, or join in a conversation when you’re in a group. Instead, you should keep to yourself. If someone speaks directly to you, don’t be rude. Answer the question, but don’t follow up or ask the person a question in return. 5. **Focus on your interests.** One way to be a loner in school is to engage in your interests during the day. This may mean taking classes you are interested in, like art or music classes. Spend your downtime at school doing things you like. 6. **Choose classes that let you be independent.** When you are choosing elective classes, choose ones that will let you work independently or that don't require group activities. Some classes that may let you be independent include computer or technology classes, shop classes, art classes,music classes, or foreign language classes. You may also want to take sports classes that allow you to exercise alone, like weight lifting or cross-country. Since you are a loner, you wouldn't want to take drama or chorus classes. Independent vocal or instrumental music lessons such as piano are a better class to take. 7. **Avoid making eye contact with people.** Loners keep to themselves and don’t want people to try to interact with them. To help with this, discourage people from approaching or talking to you by keeping your eyes down. Don’t look people in the eye and encourage them to speak to you Make sure not to make eye contact with people in areas where they might come and talk to you, like in the lunchroom or the classroom. To show respect, be sure to make eye contact with teachers and other authority figures. 8. **Keep your arms folded.** Try folding your arms over your chest. This signals that you don’t want to be bothered and want to be left alone. This body position helps make you look closed off and unapproachable. Fold your arms loosely across your body and keep your head down. This will help people realize you don’t want to be bothered. 9. **Use accessories to keep people away.** Adding accessories helps put up a barrier between you and others. They will see you doing something with the accessory and not disturb you. The accessories also give you a reason to ignore everyone around you. For example, you can wear headphones, read a book, look on your smartphone, or draw on a sketchpad. 10. **Ask if you can work alone.** If your teacher puts people in groups, ask them if you can work alone. Generally, loners don’t like to work and interact with other students. If your teacher gives you the option to work together or alone, work alone. If your teacher won’t allow you to work alone, do your part of the group work, but don’t talk to the other students unless you have to. 11. **Pay attention in class.** You may prefer to be a loner and not socialize with your peers, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore your classes. One way to successfully be a loner is to focus on your studies and be a good student. Listen in class, take notes, and study so you will make good grades. It doesn’t make a difference where you sit in class, just as long as you are paying attention. 12. **Ask and answer questions in class.** Being a loner doesn’t mean that you can’t speak up and participate in class. Raise your hand and ask questions when you have one. If the teacher calls on you or asks a question, answer. Being a loner means you don’t really hang around with other students. It doesn’t mean you don’t participate in class. 13. **Look for a friend outside of school.** If you aren’t interested in being friends with people at school, consider friends or acquaintances outside of school. This may be a cousin or neighbor. You may also look for friends or acquaintances at any out-of-school activities. For example, you may meet people at a music or computer class in the community. You may consider getting a tutor through the Boys and Girls Club or with a local college kid who can teach you a skill. Even if you prefer to be a loner, it's healthy to connect with people sometimes, even if it's only 1 or 2 other people who share similar interests as you or who you get along with. 14. **Join out-of-school activities.** You don’t have to join clubs or organizations through the school. You can instead find a club or organization to get involved in through the community. You may do things through the library, with a religious organization, or through a volunteer group. Many communities have after school clubs you can get involved with. Doing things through a community organization allows you a chance to be a loner while still enjoying doing things. 15. **Consider making friends with other loners.** You may not want to be friends with most of the people at your school, but you may find other loners and shy kids you can connect with. Maybe there are other kids who are sitting by themselves that you can talk to or work with on projects. You may also look for shy people or introverts in any clubs or organizations. These people may have similar interests as you.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Loner-in-School", "language": "en"}

How to Get Rid of Bug Bites

All types of bugs bite — mosquitoes, black flies, horse flies, fleas, mites, chiggers, bedbugs, ticks, etc. — and not a single one of them is any fun. While the bite or sting itself may not be too bad, the swelling and itching afterwards can be extremely annoying. Thankfully, there are a lot of things you can do, with and without medical supplies, to help relieve the pain and itching of a bug bite and eventually get rid of the bite altogether. 1. **Clean the bite area.** Before doing anything else, thoroughly clean the area where the bite occurred. Use soap and warm water to do this. If there’s swelling in the area of the bug bite, you can put a cold compress or ice pack on the bite to help reduce the swelling. The cold will also temporarily help relieve the pain and itching. Apply a cold compress or ice pack for a maximum of 10 minutes at a time. After the 10 minutes of application, leave it off for another 10 minutes. Do this rotation for up to an hour. 2. **Do not scratch the bite.** The bite area will most likely be itchy and you will be tempted to scratch — don’t. Do your absolute best to resist the urge to scratch. Unfortunately, scratching a bug bite can make things worse by causing an infection. 3. **Apply anti-itch lotions and creams.** If the bite continues to be itchy, you can apply calamine lotion, a topical antihistamine, or a corticosteroid cream to help relieve it. All of these lotions and creams are available as over-the-counter medications at your local pharmacy. If you aren’t sure which one might work best for you, talk to your pharmacist. 4. **Take oral medications.** You can take acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol), ibuprofen (i.e. Advil), or an antihistamine (e.g. Claritin) orally if you need to relieve the pain or itching. If you take a daily allergy medication, be careful if you want to take an additional antihistamine. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you can increase the dose, or combine it safely with another type of medication. 5. **Use a baking soda paste.** Applying a homemade baking soda paste to your bite can help to draw out toxins and relieve itching. It has been said that it can also speed up the healing process. 6. **Consider a meat tenderizer.** Yes, you read that right! Mix a non-seasoned meat tenderizer with warm water until it forms a paste. Apply that paste directly to the insect bite to help ease the itching. Wash the paste off after 15 to 20 minutes. 7. **Try a wet tea bag.** Steep a tea bag for a short time in warm water, then apply the wet tea bag to the insect bite to help relieve the itching. If you used the tea bag for an actual cup of tea first, make sure it’s cooled down enough before putting it on your skin. Leave the tea bag on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes. 8. **Chop up some fruits or vegetables.** There are several fruits and vegetables that contain enzymes that may help reduce swelling and itching. Try one of the following options: Papaya — Lay a slice on the bug bite for an hour. Onion — Rub a slice of onion on the bug bite. Garlic — Crush a clove of garlic and apply the garlic to the bug bite. 9. **Soak the bite in apple cider vinegar.** Immediately after the bite has happened, soak the area in apple cider vinegar (if possible) for a few minutes. When the bite is still bothering you, pour apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball, and tape the cotton ball on top of the bug bite with a bandaid. 10. **Crush an aspirin.** Use a spoon or a mortar and pestle to crush a pill of aspirin. Add some water to turn the powder into a paste, then apply the paste to the bite. You can leave the paste on your skin (similar to what you would do with calamine lotion) and wash it off when you have your next shower or bath. 11. **Drop on tea tree oil.** Put one drop of tea tree oil onto the bite once day. This may not help with the itching, but it may help reduce and eliminate the swelling. As an alternative, use one to two drops of lavender or peppermint oil to help stop the itching. 12. **Look for ticks.** Ticks live outdoors and are very small. Unlike other bugs, they don’t just bite and leave. They embed themselves into the skin and continue to feed off their human host. They like small, hairy areas like: the scalp, behind the ear, in the armpit or groin, between fingers and toes. When checking for ticks, start in these areas, but check your whole body just to be sure. 13. **Remove the tick.** The tick must be removed from its human host. The person who has been bitten will likely need assistance from another person, especially if the tick is someplace hard to reach. Do not touch the tick with bare hands. 14. **Save the tick.** Yes, you should keep the tick temporarily. Because ticks can carry diseases like Lyme disease, you may wish to have the tick tested if you show signs of Lyme disease, or even if you don't. If it tests positive for anything, you may need additional medical treatment. Place the tick in a plastic baggie or small container (e.g. empty pill bottle, etc.). If the tick is still alive, store it in the fridge for up to 10 days. If the tick is dead, store it in the freezer for up to 10 days. If you aren’t able to submit the tick within 10 days, throw it out. Even frozen or refrigerated ticks won’t be viable for testing after 10 days. 15. **Go to the doctor.** If the tick is embedded deep in the skin, or someone was only able to remove a portion of the tick, you’ll need to go to the doctor and have it removed. You should also go to your doctor if you have any of the symptoms of Lyme disease. 16. **Wash the area of the tick bite.** Use soap and water to wash the area of the tick bite. Apply some type of antiseptic to the area to disinfect the bite. You can use rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, etc. Make sure to wash your hands after you’ve completed this step. 17. **Submit the tick for testing.** Testing is usually done by your local public health authority. Check with your health department to see if testing is available in your area. The public health lab will start by checking what type of tick it is, as only some carry diseases. If the tick is of concern, they may then perform tests, or send it to a national lab for further tests. If you live in Canada in a province that does not have a provincial lab that tests ticks, you can submit the tick directly to the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) for testing. Follow the instructions on the Government of Canada website to submit a tick to the NML. If you live in the United States, each state’s public health department will have a procedure on how to submit a tick for testing. Check your state’s public health website for detailed instructions. If you show signs of infection but are still waiting on the results of the tick test, do not delay treatment, and remember that false negatives are possible, or you may even have been bitten by another tick and not be aware. 18. **Do not wear scented items.** Some bugs are attracted to certain scents, or just the fact that something smells different from what they’re used to. Avoid wearing any perfume or scented lotions and creams when outdoors. 19. **Use insect repellent.** Insect repellent comes in both spray and lotion versions. Use insect repellent before going outdoors to help prevent bugs from landing on you in the first place. The spray is easier to cover your whole body, as it can also be sprayed directly onto your clothing. However, the lotion can be applied directly to your skin and can be targeted at exposed areas. Read the instructions for the repellent lotion as to whether you can use it on your face. Never apply it near your eyes. Insect repellent that contains DEET is the most effective. Wait at least 30 minutes before applying the repellent if you’ve just applied sunscreen. 20. **Wear protective clothing.** In addition to wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, you can also wear clothing specifically designed to keep the bugs out. This special clothing includes a hat with thin netting that comes down to cover your face, neck, and shoulders. If you’re going to an area with a lot of bugs, this might be a better option than repellent. You can also tuck your pants into your socks to keep the bugs from biting your ankles. 21. **Remove standing water.** Water that’s built up in puddles and ditches, or any water that isn’t moving with a current, can become breeding grounds for mosquito eggs. If there’s standing water on your property, remove it to help eliminate the possibility of mosquitoes. If you’re outdoors, avoid areas with standing water if you can. 22. **Light a citronella candle.** Candles made with citronella, linalool, and geraniol have all been shown to keep bugs, mainly mosquitoes, away. In fact, there are studies that show citronella reduces the number of female mosquitoes in the area by 35%, linalool reduces the number by 65%, and geraniol reduces the number by 82%! They even make citronella-scented badges that you can wear on your clothing. 23. **Create an essential oil repellent.** There are some essential oils that are known to help repel bugs, and when combined with water can be applied to your skin to help keep the bugs away. You can also try an essential oil diffuser instead of a candle. The following essential oils work to repel bugs: eucalyptus, clove, citronella, neem oil or cream, and camphor and menthol gels. If you’re applying a solution directly to your skin, be careful to keep it away from your eyes. 24. **Recognize the symptoms of a bug bite.** While this may seem quite obvious, it is important to be sure you’re treating a bug bite and not something else, like poison ivy. Plus, some symptoms may be similar to other medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to the bug that bit you. 25. **Know when it is an emergency.** If someone was stung inside the mouth, nose or throat, or is experiencing a possible severe allergic reaction, call 911 or 999 or take the person to the ER right away. People who are suffering in this way may need medical intervention to help them breathe, and will likely need some sort of medication in order to alleviate the symptoms (e.g. epinephrine, corticosteroids, etc.). If the person who was stung has a known allergy to certain bug bites, she may carry an EpiPen (a portable shot which delivers epinephrine) with her. If she has one, follow the instructions on the EpiPen to administer the medication to the person immediately. The person must still see a doctor immediately, even if you have administered a shot of epinephrine. 26. **Know when to follow up with a doctor.** If the person who was stung is not having a serious allergic reaction (or wasn’t stung inside his airway) he may be okay temporarily. If he starts to experience any of the following symptoms, he may need to go to the doctor for further treatment. Secondary infections can be caused by itching and causing a break in the skin through which bacteria can enter. The skin is the first layer of defense against infection. Persistent pain or itching, fever, signs of infection at the bug bite location. As an example, if this person has an infection, he will most likely need antibiotics in order to fight that infection.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Bug-Bites", "language": "en"}

How to Apply Mascara

Do you wish your eyelashes were thicker? Do you wish you had eyelashes the length of Heidi Klum's legs? Are you afraid you're going to poke yourself in the eye with a mascara wand if you don't know what you're doing? In this article we'll show you how to choose and properly apply the mascara that best suits your lashes and gives you the full, long eyelashes you want. 1. **Decide what you want out of your mascara.** There is a mascara for just about any kind of lash enhancement--volumizing, lengthening, defining, faster growth, waterproof--plus many products that combine these effects. Take a look at your lashes and decide what sort of enhancement they need. For sparse lashes, look for a thickening or volumizing mascara with a large, round brush with lots of bristles. You can also find a combination primer and mascara formula, which is perfect for bulking up lashes and keeping them healthy. If you have short lashes, look for a lengthening mascara with a smaller brush with thick bristles. A small wand will allow you to get very close to your eye and make sure you coat each lash. If your lashes are full but you want length and definition, choose a lengthening mascara, but one with a long brush with evenly-spaced bristles to separate your lashes. If your lashes are uneven in length or damaged, check the ingredients on the mascara. Phyto-keratin and panthenol can help your lashes grow. Use a fatter brush on your lashes. You should only use mascara for three months before replacing it, so go ahead and experiment with different brands and formulas until you find your perfect mascara. Use waterproof mascara only for special events, like if you’re going to a pool party or a movie that might make you cry. It’s difficult to remove and can dry out your lashes, making them brittle. 2. **Pick your shade.** For the most part, black is the way to go. It gives the illusion of thickness and length and can really make your eyes pop. If your lashes are red or blonde, however, make brown your go-to shade, wearing light brown for everyday and a dark brown to amp up the drama. Experiment with colored mascaras. Green can bring out violet in blue eyes, purple can enhance green eyes, and blue and purple can brighten your complexion. 3. **Invest in an eyelash curler, while you're at it.** If you're serious about getting knock-out lashes, an eyelash curler is key. This will lift your lashes and allow more light to hit your eyes so they look bigger and brighter. It may not seem like it, but an eyelash curler can make a huge difference. Look for a curler with a rounded rubber pad, which will help curl your lash instead of bend it at a sharp angle. 4. **Apply any other eye makeup first.** If you’re planning to wear eyeshadow, eyeliner, or any other eye makeup, brush it on before you do your mascara. This will ensure that you don’t smudge any of your mascara by trying to put other products on around it. Other non-eye makeup, such as foundation or blush, can be applied at any time. Most people choose to apply full-face makeup first, then finish with eye makeup. 5. **Curl your lashes first.** Position the curler as close to the base of your lashes as possible without pinching your skin. Close the curlers and gently squeeze for about 10 seconds. Then, release the curler.If you don't have a curler or you're too afraid to use one, use your fingertips to push up and curl wet lashes. 6. **Remove the wand from the mascara tube by twisting back and forth instead of pumping it up and down.** Twisting will allow the brush to pick up the mascara, which is what most people think they are doing when they pump the brush in the tube. What they are actually doing is forcing air into the tube, which dries out the mascara. 7. **Wipe off excess mascara on a tissue or on the lip of the tube.** Too much product can lead to clumping. Giving the wand a little wipe will leave you with just the right amount. 8. **Look up to lift your lashes.** You should still be able to see yourself in the mirror out of your peripheral vision. If you are afraid you are going to blink when you approach your lashes with the wand, open your mouth. It's harder to blink when your mouth is wide open. 9. **Place the wand against the base of your lashes and wiggle it back and forth a little.** You want the most product to be applied to the roots, which will make your lashes look longer and keep them from getting weighed down on the tips. The wiggle will also help lift and curl your lashes. 10. **Pull the wand out toward the tips of your lashes with a zig-zag motion, or another little wiggle.** The zig-zag adds length and volume, and can reduce clumping. 11. **Go over your lashes with a second coat.** Try to leave it at that--do a third coat at the most. The more you layer on the mascara, the more likely it is the mascara will dry on your lashes and cause the new coat to clump. Mix mascaras to combine their specialties. For example, you could use lengthening mascara for one layer, then add a layer of thickening mascara on top. Try this at home before you wear it out, as some mascaras might not blend well and cause clump. 12. **Don't neglect the lashes on the inner and outer part of your eyelid.** A lot of times, people apply mascara only to the very center of their eyelid, which can actually make your eyes look narrower. Make sure you apply to the inner, middle, and outer lashes. If you are having trouble reaching your inner lashes with your brush, you can very carefully bend the brush to a 45 degree angle (don't worry, you can bend it back). This will make it easy to brush those inner lashes without getting mascara all over your face. You can also apply the mascara to the back side of the lashes for an easier application. 13. **Take a spoon, a kleenex or the thin wedge of a makeup sponge and hold it underneath your lower eyelashes.** This will allow you to apply mascara without getting it all over your skin. 14. **Put mascara only on the roots of the lower lashes.** Brushing on mascara on the full length of your lower lashes, from the roots to the tips, creates an unnatural, spidery effect. Instead, apply your mascara at the roots of the lashes and lift up and away as you get closer to the tips. If you apply too much, simply brush or pull it off of the tips with your fingers. 15. **Use the very tip of the brush to apply mascara to your lower lashes.** If you have a very small wand, you'll want to use that. It will be easier to control the application and get close to your eye. If you have brown mascara, consider using that on your lower lashes, even if you used black on your upper lashes. It's not quite as heavy as black and can add some dimension to your look. 16. **Remove any mistakes with a cotton swab.** If you get mascara on your face or eyelid, allow it to dry so you don't smear it and make things worse. Once dry, put a bit of moisturizer on a cotton swab and press it to the mascara spot. Spin it gently in place. This should remove the spot without messing up your eyeshadow. 17. **De-clump with a clean mascara wand.** Either use a disposable wand or repurpose an old one (wash it thoroughly with soap and water first). Comb through the top and bottom of the lash, spinning the brush as you sweep forward. This should remove clumps and give your lashes definition. Try to comb through your lashes while the mascara is still wet. If you don't have an extra wand on hand, try using a clean toothbrush to comb out any clumps. 18. **Thicken your lashes even further with baby powder.** If you don't feel like you're getting the thick, voluminous lashes you want, try this trick. Apply one coat of mascara , then dust your lashes with translucent powder or baby powder (you can use a makeup brush or a cotton swab dipped in powder). Then add another coat of mascara. The powder gives the mascara more to cling to, which allows you to build more volume. 19. **Remove your mascara every night with an eye makeup remover.** It might not seem like a big deal, but it can dry out your lashes at night and cause them to become brittle and fall out.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Mascara", "language": "en"}

How to Make Virgin Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is super versatile. You can use it in your cooking, turn it into a DIY hair moisturizer, or apply it to your skin. Making your own coconut oil at home is a great way to avoid unwanted additives and preservatives, and you actually have a few different methods you can try. This article will walk you through each method step-by-step so you can whip up your own coconut oil in no time! 1. **Split a coconut with a sharp cleaver.** Use a mature, brown coconut, rather than a young green one. 2. **Scrape the meat of the coconut from the shell.** Use a coconut scraper, sharp paring knife, or a sturdy metal spoon. Removing the meat is tricky. A butter knife is much better than a sharp paring knife. You can slide it in between the meat and the shell and 'pop' pieces off, rather than slip, and cut your hand. 3. **Cut the coconut meat into small pieces or shred the coconut flesh with the scraper.** 4. **Place the pieces into a food processor.** 5. **Turn on the food processor to medium speed and blend until well shredded.** Add a little water to help it blend if necessary. 6. **Filter the coconut milk.** Put a coffee filter or cheesecloth over a wide-mouth jar. Pour or spoon a small amount of the coconut mixture onto the cloth. Wrap the cloth around the coconut mixture and squeeze the milk into the jar. Squeeze hard, to make sure you get every last drop. Repeat this process until all of the coconut mixture has been used. 7. **Leave the jar unattended for at least 24 hours.** As it sets, the coconut milk and oil will separate and a layer of curd will appear at the top of the jar. Refrigerate the jar so the curd hardens more quickly if you'd like. If you'd prefer not to refrigerate it, leave the jar in a cool room. 8. **Scoop out the curd with a spoon and discard it.** The pure virgin coconut oil is left in the jar. 9. **Start with dried or dehydrated coconut.** You can buy dried unsweetened coconut flakes from the grocery store. Be sure the only ingredient the bag contains is coconut. If you want to start with fresh coconut meat, cut the meat into pieces and use a dehydrator to dry it out over the course of 24 hours. You can use the oven at its lowest temperature to dry coconut meat. Cut it into small chunks, place it on a baking sheet, and cook it at a low temperature for 8 hours, or until its completely dry. If you're using store-bought coconut, go for the coconut flakes, rather than shredded coconut, which tends to clog the juicer. 10. **Put the coconut in your juicer.** Juice the dried coconut in small batches, since placing a lot of coconut in the juicer will cause it to clog. The juicer will remove the oil and cream from the fiber. Continue processing the coconut until all of the flakes have been run through the juicer. 11. **Process the coconut again.** The juicer won't be able to extract all of the oil the first time around, so run the coconut flakes through it once more to make sure you get every last drop. 12. **Place the coconut oil in a jar and store it in a warm place.** Wait 24 hours for the coconut cream to settle at the bottom of the jar. The pure coconut oil will rise to the top. 13. **Spoon the oil into a new container.** Once the oil has separated from the cream and solidified, use a spoon to remove it from the first container and place it in a new container. It is now ready to use. 14. **Heat 4 cups of water.** Place the water in a saucepan and put it on a burner. Turn the burner to medium-high and heat the water until it starts steaming. 15. **Grate the meat of 2 coconuts.** Use a fully developed brown coconut instead of a young green one. Open the coconut, scoop out the meat and grate it into a bowl. 16. **Blend the coconut and water.** Put the grated coconut in a blender. Pour the hot water over the coconut and close the lid of the blender. Hold the lid of the blender in place and puree the coconut and water into a smooth mixture. Don't fill the blender more than halfway full with hot water. If your blender is on the smaller side, blend the coconut and water in two batches. Filling the blender too high may cause the lid to fly off. Hold the lid in place while you're blending the mixture; otherwise, it could come off while you're blending. 17. **Strain the coconut liquid.** Place cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Pour the pureed coconut over the cloth or strainer so that the coconut milk drips into the bowl. Use a spatula to push the pulp and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. If it's easier for you, you could pick up the cheesecloth and squeeze it over the bowl with your hands. To extract even more liquid, pour more hot water over the pulp and squeeze it again. 18. **Boil the coconut liquid.** Place it in a saucepan on a burner and turn the heat to medium-high. Bring it to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, until the water has evaporated and the cream has separated from the oil and turned brown. The process of boiling the liquid until it reaches the right state could take over an hour. Be patient, and stir constantly. If you'd rather not boil the mixture, you can allow it to separate on its own. Place the liquid in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Leave it at room temperature for 24 hours, then place it in the refrigerator so the oil solidifies and floats to the top. Strain the oil from the liquid.

en.wikihow.com

{"url": "https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Virgin-Coconut-Oil", "language": "en"}