Honesty is usually the best policy. It is disrespectful to lie to someone. If you don't want to date someone, you should say so.  Sometimes it is easy to be honest. For example, you might be able to truthfully say, "No, thank you, I already have a date for that party." Other times, you might need to find a kinder way to be nice. Maybe you are not attracted to the person. Instead of bluntly saying that, try saying, "No, thank you, I just don't think we would be a good fit." Avoid making up a phony excuse. For instance, don't tell someone you will be out of town this weekend if you won't be. There's a chance that you might then run into them at the movies, which would definitely cause hurt feelings. A compliment sandwich is a really effective way to provide feedback. Essentially, you "sandwich" your negative comment between two positive things. Try using this method when you need to reject someone.  An example of a compliment sandwich is to say something such as, "You're an awesome person. Unfortunately, I'm not interested in dating you. Someone else is going to be really lucky to date someone with such a great personality!" You could also try, "You are a really nice person. I'm only interested you as a friend. I like when we hang out in big groups together!" Be sincere. If you offer false compliments, the other person will likely be able to tell and feel hurt. If you do not want to date someone, it is best to be upfront about your feelings. Do not beat around the bush. If your mind is made up, it is best to clearly state your response.  If someone asks you to date them and you don't want to, you can be direct and kind at the same time. State your answer clearly. You can make your feelings clear without purposefully hurting someone else's feelings. Try smiling and saying, "That sounds fun, but no thank you. I'm not interested in dating you." Don't beat around the bush. If you do not want to accept the date, there is no need to say, "Let me think about it." It is best to get the rejection over with. You don't want to give someone false hope. Avoid saying something like, "Let me check my schedule and get back to you." Try to treat the person the way you would want to be treated. This means that you should choose your words carefully. Be thoughtful in your response.  It's okay to pause before responding. You might be taken by surprise and need a moment to collect your thoughts. Say thank you. It is a compliment to be asked out. You can say, "I'm flattered. Unfortunately, I can't accept." Don't laugh. Many people laugh nervously in awkward situations. Try to avoid giggling, as that is likely to result in hurt feelings. Sometimes it is not what you say, but how you say it. If you need to reject someone, think about factors other than your words. Non-verbal communication matters, too.  Use the right tone of voice. Try to sound gentle but firm. Make eye contact. This helps convey that you are being serious, and also shows respect for the other person. If you are in public, try not to speak too loudly. It is not necessary for everyone around you to know that you are turning down a date.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Tell the truth. Use a "compliment sandwich". Be direct. Treat the person with respect. Communicate effectively.


Go online and simply search “Decor Style Quizzes” in order to get some direction. These quizzes will determine your personal style by having you choose between different rooms, accessories, and pieces of furniture. As you take the quiz, reflect on whether or not you could see yourself relaxing and/or entertaining guests in each space. Some styles that these quizzes may determine you have include:  Happy modern Warm industrial Eclectic collector Classic glam Keep in mind that a single style may not fit your tastes. Feel free to mix and match elements to create a unique, but cohesive, style. Buy some interior decorating magazines and cut out any rooms, furniture pieces, and accessories in the magazines that you like and then make a collage or scrapbook out of the clippings. Search your specific decor style on sites like Pinterest and save any pins that you like to your “Decor Style” board. This should help you develop a clearer sense of style. Include your specific style in your Pinterest search. For example, search “modern style large living room” or “traditional style large living room.” You likely already own several furniture pieces and accessories that fit your style, so go through your home and make note of what you enjoy having and what you’d like to replace. Get rid of the pieces that don’t fit your vision and purchase new pieces that stay true to your style.  If you can’t afford to get several new pieces at once, keep your current furniture and accessories and replace one at a time over the course of several months. To save money, consider changing the pieces you can without replacing them. For instance, you could paint an old boring dresser that you have a bright color or change the upholstery on your dining room chairs to better fit your style. You can also repurpose items to fit your needs. For instance, instead of buying a new coffee table, make one out of crates or a large trunk. As you’re trying to determine your style, consider who you are and what kind of life you live. For instance, if you’re always planning your next trip and are passionate about seeing the world, you may want to go for a boho world-traveler theme that incorporates bright worldly colors, antique furniture, and organic textures, such as wooden stools and leather poufs. Some other styles you may consider include:  Top-notch tastemaker: classic designer pieces, neutral backdrop, and high-tech gadgets. Life of the party: bold colors, playful accessories, and mixed patterns. Avoid displaying breakable items and using fabrics that stain easily if you have pets or children.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Take a quiz online to find your style. Look online and in magazines for inspiration. Go through what you already own before you purchase new pieces. Match your decor to your personality and lifestyle.


The size of a shuffleboard table can range anywhere from nine feet to twenty-two feet. Keep in mind the amount of space you have to build and store it. You wouldn’t want to build a fourteen foot long table in a twelve foot shed. Remember you need at least two feet of additional space on each end of the table to actually play. The size you decide on will affect what dimensions and plans you use for the playing surface, the bed and the legs. You can find dimensions for shuffleboard tables online. They can save time and help you avoid mistakes. Looks for plans that are detailed and that tell you exactly how long the table should be, the width of the box, and the height of the legs. Map out the dimensions of each board you use, if you make plans yourself. Find pre-made plans at http://www.zieglerworld.com/shuffleboard-plans.htm. While maple or oak will give you the most durable table, these materials may be too expensive. For something more moderately priced, consider using plywood and bamboo flooring for the surface, which can be just as good once it's sealed and polished. Use mahogany for the trim, if you want a classic touch.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Determine what size you want your table to be. Plan or find dimensions for each part of the table. Decide on the type of wood for the playing surface.


When you’re ready to start writing, dip the nib in the bottom of ink to fill the vent. Then, with the pen still held just inside the bottle, give the pen a quick downward shake. This should help remove any excess ink built up on the pen tip. You don’t need a protractor to get exactly the precise angle, but you should practice holding the pen the right way. Use a normal pen grip, then hold the pen so it’s perpendicular to the paper, or straight out with the nib pointed at the sheet. Then, bring the pen down until it’s angled almost halfway between parallel and perpendicular.   This will give you more control over the pen, making it easier to create the strokes. Touch the tip of the nib to the top of your x-height, or the middle row on your lined paper. Then, using even pressure, draw the tip of the nib straight down to create a vertical line. Repeat this several times, trying to leave an equal amount of space between each line. Once you feel comfortable with your vertical strokes, it’s time to add a flourish. Draw a vertical line just as you did before, then stop about 1 nib-width above the baseline and pull the pen to the right.  The serif should be a horizontal line about 1 nib-width across. If you lift the pen before drawing the serif, make sure it’s completely connected to the previous stroke, without any spaces. Practice this several times, as well. Many letters also have a serif at the top. To create this, start at the waist line, or the second line on your ruled sheet, and draw a horizontal stroke that’s about 1 nib-width to the right. Then, without picking the pen up from the paper, draw a line straight down to the baseline. You can also practice starting your serif at the top line, rather than the waist line. Now that you’ve practiced creating serifs on the top and the bottom of the letters, it’s time to put it all together. Draw a serif at the top of your waist line, then draw a straight line down, stopping about 1 nib-width from the baseline. Finish by drawing another serif at the bottom of the line.  Keep practicing until the top and bottom serifs are the same size each time you draw this shape. This is a basic lower-case “i,” or a lowercase “l” if you start from the top line. It can sometimes help to trace a letter to get a feel for its construction. Once you've mastered drawing a line with a serif, lay a sheet of printer paper over the sample alphabet you printed. Then, trace over the letter with your calligraphy pen, trying to match the serifs and flourishes as closely as possible. It can be helpful to practice one letter several times before moving on to the next one. Once you feel comfortable tracing the letters, start writing them freehand. Try practicing letters that are entirely contained in the x-height to start. Letters made up of all straight lines, like i, m, n, and w, are the easiest to learn first.  You’ve already practiced drawing “i” and “l,” so try drawing “m” next. This is an easy letter because it’s made of 3 straight lines, then 2 serifs as connectors. The letters “a,” “c,” “e,” “i,” “m,” “n,” “o,” “r,” “s,” “u,” “v,” “w,” “x,” and “z” will all be contained within the x-height. The row above the x-height is for your ascenders, or the long lines reaching up above letters like “b” and “h.” The top serif on the letter “t” also goes into your ascender row, although it’s not quite as tall as the other ascenders. Other letters with an ascender are “d,” “f,” “k,” and “l.” For letters that drop down, like “g,” or “j,” draw your lines below the baseline, reaching all the way down to the bottom row. In some cases, you might add decorative flourishes that reach down in the descender’s row, also. Other letters with descenders are “p,” “q,” and “y.” ” When you’re dotting an “i” or “j,” a dot will look too small, while a full nib-mark will be too wide. Instead, use the tip of your pen to create a very thin, angled stroke on top of those letters. Typically, the mark will be angled upward from left to right. However, you can play around with this if you'd like to take more of a creative approach to your calligraphy.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Dip the pen nib in the ink, then shake it firmly. Hold your pen at about a 40° angle to the paper. Start by drawing a simple downward stroke. Add a serif stroke to the bottom of a line. Create a serif stroke at the top of a line. Practice a line with a serif at the top and the bottom. Try tracing the letters before you draw them on your own. Start practicing letters that fit in your x-height. Draw ascenders above the x-height. Mark your descenders in the space below the x-height. Make a hairline stroke with the pen to dot the letters “i” and “j.


Being a man of your word means more than simply following through with the commitments you think people will remember; it means following through no matter what.  Place the same value on keeping small promises as you do on keeping the big ones. Remember that being a man of your word is about integrity, and integrity matters even when no one is watching. Writing your commitments down can help you change how you think about them, as well as being a great tool to help you remember them.  Use index cards to write important commitments or promises out and keep them someplace safe that is preferably visible to you on a daily basis.  Writing your commitments down may make you feel more accountable for actions. The act of writing your commitments down can help you to remember them. It can sometimes be easy to make commitments that would be unpleasant to keep because we tend not to think of things in the medium to distant future in a real way.  If someone asks you to help them move next month, for instance, you are more likely to say yes than if they were to ask about this Sunday.  That's because discomfort in the distant future doesn't seem real in the present.  Viewing future events in an abstract sense is called the “planning fallacy” and it can lead you to make commitments for the future that you may not otherwise have made. Try to think of the things you are agreeing to do as though you were about to go do them right now.  Don't agree to do things you wouldn't normally accept doing. While it's easy to see the commitments you have to others as burdens, try to reframe the way you see them to reflect the trust others must have in you.  You have earned the respect of people in your life, and as a part of that respect, commitments have arisen.  Following through on your word is a great way to show the people in your life that you care about them. People rely on you based on trust and respect.  Having commitments to others is borne out of the respect and trust people have for you.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Treat small promises with the same level of importance as big ones. Write your commitments down. Bridge the gap between abstract long term commitments and short term experiences. View your commitments as a privilege.


If you want to go directly to a specific page on a website, you will need to enter the file path. The file path always follows a "/". The "/" in a URL represents a subdirectory within the website. Each "/" marks that you are descending one level deeper into the site. The file path is followed by the file name, and sometimes the file extension "example.com/subdirectory/filename.html". Most URLs do not require the file extension – it fills automatically. However, it is often necessary to include. Make sure you are entering the correct file path, as /page.php and /page.html are completely separate files You may be more likely to make a mistake when copying long chains of characters into the address box by hand. If you have access to the text of the web address, simply copy and paste it into the address bar. Strange characters may appear in the address bar: ?, #, and series of numbers. You don't need to worry about these, except insofar as you must copy out the chains of digits to reach certain specific sites.  A "?" with numbers/letters following the url is called a parameter. Parameters are automatically generated and not necessary to type in. A "#" followed by letters/numbers is called an anchor. Websites sometimes have certain points specified on a page, that let you jump directly to a specific place on the page. The page will automatically scroll to the place the anchor is found.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Enter the file path to go to a specific page on the site. Use the computer's Copy function, if possible. Understand parameters and anchors.


It's perfectly possible to apply for incorporation and tax exemption without consulting a lawyer, but it's not the most straightforward process in the world and it would be beneficial to consult a lawyer after preparing the paperwork to the best of your abilities. Always get your work double-checked, but try to save money by doing as much of it as possible yourself. Your church must satisfy the following requirements:  The organization must be organized and operated exclusively for religious, educational, scientific, or other charitable purposes. Net earnings may not inure to the benefit of any private individual or shareholder. No substantial part of its activity may be attempting to influence legislation and may not intervene in political campaigns. The organization’s purposes and activities may not be illegal or violate fundamental public policy. Obtain the documents of incorporation from the Business Bureau in your state. If you've already configured your corporate offices, composed a belief statement, and meet the proper requirements, you're halfway there. Get a few copies of the same documents to practice on. If you mess up, just start over. At the regional IRS office, ask for a formal revue of your documentation and a notice of exemption. As long as you meet the requirements, all churches should automatically qualify for 501 status without more action.  It's not necessary to take any extra step to ensure tax exemption. However, many churches take the extra step of IRS recognition to ensure to church leaders, members, and contributors that the church is recognized, exempt, and in good legal stead with the state. This is especially important when a church is just starting out and hoping to promote legitimacy. You can also fill out IRS form 1023, found here: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1023.pdf Regardless of whether or not you hire employees, it's important to acquire an EIN from the IRS to allow you to open a church bank account and also to file returns with the IRS. Find this form here: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf Use your EIN and other documentation to open an account used specifically for the church's funds. To open an account, you'll typically be asked to provide:  Proof of your EIN Photo ID, and social security numbers of the principal signers Master list of the church's board of directors and corporate officers

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Consult a lawyer. Understand the guidelines and rules of tax-exemption and structure your corporation accordingly. Get incorporation documents in your state. Confirm your 501(c)(3) status. Fill out the SS4 form with the IRS to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Open a church bank account.


To give the brisket a delicious smoky flavor, you need to barbecue it with wood chips. Take 6 cups of hickory or mesquite chips, and soak them for an hour in enough cold water to cover the wood. When the hour is up, drain the water from the chips so they’re ready for the grill. If you’re using wood chunks in your grill, it isn’t necessary to soak them beforehand. In fact, soaking wood chunks can actually make it take longer to get them burning. When you’re ready to start your grill, place your charcoal in a chimney starter. Use an electric starter or lighter fluid to ignite the coal and allow the pieces to burn until they are red. Once the charcoal pieces are hot and red, add them to the bottom of the grill. However, make sure to create two piles, one on each side of the grill with the center area free of coal. Some grills have special baskets that are designed for holding the charcoal in piles on either side of the grill. If your model has them, you can place the coals in the baskets. Fat may cook off the brisket as you barbecue it, and you don’t want it to reach the charcoal. To catch any fat or other debris that may fall off the meat, place a drip pan between the two piles of coal in the center of the grill. An inexpensive foil pan works well as a drip pan for your grill. When the charcoal and drip pan are in place, toss ¾-cup (177 g) of the wood chips on each of the piles of coal, for a total of 1 ½ cups (354 g). Next, place the grate over the charcoal and wood chips to prepare for barbecuing.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Soak your wood chips. Light the charcoal in a chimney starter. Place the hot coals on either side of the grill. Set up a drip pan between the piles of coals. Add the wood chips and insert the grate.


If you're at home with a box of macaroni and cheese but aren't sure what to do, read this article to find out how to quickly and easily make your own mac and cheese out of a box. Add some protein to your mac and cheese in a creative way by reading the linked article.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Make packaged macaroni and cheese. Make hamburger macaroni and cheese.


Make sure to stand in natural light and wear white clothes when determining your skin tone. Colored clothing may reflect artificial light which can affect how you see your skin color. Use a mirror to determine the surface color of your skin. Surface color skin tones are fair, light, medium, or dark.  Fair skin tones are light and burn easily. Light skin tones are also fair but have more beige and yellow undertones than fair skin. Medium skin tones are darker and have olive undertones and usually have green, warm brown, or hazel eyes. Dark skin tones are deep and rich. Those with dark skin tones typically have dark brown eyes.  Your surface skin tone may change depending on the season or how much time you spend in the sun. Unlike surface skin tone, undertones remain constant regardless of skin conditions like rosacea and acne. To determine your undertone, look at the color of your veins in your wrist. If your veins appear blue or purple, you have a cool undertone. If they appear greener, then you are warm-toned. Neural toned people will have blue-green veins.  Many people from African or Indian who have an easy time tanning have warm undertones. If you get red, flush easily, or burn when tanning, you most likely have a cool skin undertone. The color of your eyes also contributes to your overall tone. Those with golden brown, green, and blue eyes are normally warm-toned. Additionally, those with gold specs in their eyes commonly have warm undertones. Those with black or deep, steel blue, or hazel with gray or blue flecks have cool undertones. Keep your eyes in mind when considering your hair color.  Light blue or gray eyes look good with light blonde hair.  Darker toned people look good in dark brown or mocha hair. If you aren't looking to make a fashion statement or have people notice you, then you may want to pick a color that compliments your tone. Doing this will allow your dye to look natural and attractive.  Those with a cool tone look good in colors like wheat blond, walnut brown, tawny blond, golden caramel, or copper. Those with a medium tone look good in gold, honey, auburn, cinnamon, ebony brown or mocha.  Chocolate brown, mahogany, toffee, or other warm and rich colors are best for people with darker complexion.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Look at the color of your jawline. Determine your skin's undertone. Think about the color of your eyes. Pick a hair color that compliments your tone.


Add 10 to 15 drops of lemon or tea tree oil to two cups of white vinegar in a bowl. Lightly stir the solution to combine the oil and vinegar.  Commercial leather conditioner can be used in place of a homemade solution. Read the label on the product to ensure proper use. Avoid using olive oil as it can damage the leather over time. Dip a corner of a clean rag into the conditioning solution. Gently rub the solution into the leather using a circular motion. Allow the solution to dry onto the sofa overnight. Be careful not to drench the rag in the solution or leave the sofa too wet. The liquid could damage the leather sofa. The next day, gently buff the leather to restore the shine. Begin at the top of the sofa and work your way down, buffing the leather in a small, circular motion. Repeat the conditioning every six to twelve months to keep the leather soft and shiny.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Create a homemade solution. Apply the solution to the entire couch. Buff the sofa with a clean cloth.


Drilling is one large factor that contributes to oil spills. Contact legislators in your state and ask them to vote for bills that ban drilling and any other environmentally friendly policies. You can also sign petitions calling for your state representatives to sign environmentally friendly bills. Google “oil spill volunteers” to see what organizations are asking for volunteers. Call the organization and ask how you can help. In some instances, like caring for animals, only qualified professionals will be able to help. For other volunteering opportunities, like administrative help, volunteers may have to be trained. Untrained volunteering opportunities, like picking up trash, should be abundantly available.  Do not try to help wildlife unless you have the permission and knowledge to do so.  The Audubon Society, which protects birds and their habitats, is one place that you can contact for volunteering opportunities. If you are in the area where the oil spill occurred, call the local authorities to report injuries and damage that you feel has gone unnoticed. It is likely that there will be a hotline specifically for injured and dead animal sightings, but it will change depending on the event and location. Do not try to help injured animals unless you are qualified to do so. In some cases, a donation is more helpful and preferred over volunteering. A couple of places you can donate to are the National Wildlife Federation and the Save Our Seabirds organization. During oil spills, companies like Dawn will donate a portion of your purchase to help the clean up effort.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Take preventative measures. Volunteer your help. Report injuries and damage. Donate to organizations.


Approaching someone at the wrong time can sabotage your chances before you really even get started.  Don’t try to start a conversation at an obviously bad time, like in the middle of a quiz or while the person is distracted by other things that seem to be commanding their attention. Realize that some people don’t like talking in certain situations. Some people don’t enjoy talking while riding the bus or wiping the cafeteria tables. If they don’t seem to warm up to your attempts to engage them in conversation, let it go. The adage that people like to talk about themselves turns out to be largely true. And questions are also great icebreakers.  If you don’t know how to start a conversation with someone, begin with a question like, “What’s the homework?” or “Who are you taking for biology?”  A good way to get closer to someone is to ask them questions about themselves. Ask questions about their hobbies, their family. their pets, etc. If they tell you about something they did or accomplished, ask them how they got into it and why. Key to getting to know someone is listening carefully to what they say.  Show that you’re giving them your full attention by holding eye contact, nodding your head, and pitching in small comments here and there to show you’re following the thread of the conversation. As you ask the other person questions, listen carefully to their answers to find out what the person is most interested in or passionate about. If one topic doesn’t elicit much of a response from them, don’t keep asking more questions about it. Instead, move on to another topic. Once you find a topic the other person seems excited about or has more to say about, ask follow-up questions and pitch in your own thoughts to keep the conversation going. People feel more at ease when you mirror their body language--subtly. Don’t pantomime their every movement, just subtly adopt similar body postures.  If they’re leaning forward, do the same. If they’re sitting with their legs crossed, cross yours. If they’re showing negative or closed-off body language (arms crossed, legs crossed while standing, or hands in their pockets), don’t mirror the negative body language. Instead, take that as a cue that they’re not feeling at ease. Adopt an open body language (leaning forward if sitting, arms at your sides with palms out, shoulders back, and legs shoulder-width apart, with feet towards the other person if standing) and try to redirect the conversation to something that elicits a more positive response. When you’re nervous or tense, you make other people nervous or tense--which most people don’t like.  Don’t psych yourself out. Practice quieting the doubting voice in your head telling you “you look so awkward right now” or “they’re just going to laugh at you.” Realize that it’s only the voice of insecurity and it doesn’t have any actual merit. Breathe. When you’re nervous you tend to hold your breath or take quick, shallow breaths, which perpetuates your nervousness. To calm yourself, take several full, deep breaths before approaching the person you want to talk to and remind yourself to keep taking deep, regular breaths throughout the conversation. Sharing too much about yourself too quickly can be off-putting.  Don’t tell the other person your entire life story. Not only do they probably not care enough to listen to you talk all about yourself at this point, people tend to see people who overshare about themselves as having poor boundaries or being self-obsessed. When first getting to know someone, keep the personal details fairly general. Don’t get into details that might make the conversation awkward, like your cousin’s stint in jail or your sister’s habit of eating paper towels.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Choose your moment. Ask questions. Listen attentively. Mirror their body language. Relax. Avoid oversharing.


You can ask your friends who have Kindle books in their collection for a copy of some of their books. This is the easiest way to collect free Kindle books Many Pinterest users offers different links to free Kindle books on their board to increase their subscribers. It is an easy way to find free Kindle books using their collected links.  Go to the “Free Kindle Books” section of Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/explore/free-Kindle-books. You should see a free Kindle books board on the left side and pins on the right side. Click on one of the listed boards or pins to open its page. Click on the “Visit site” button at the top of the pin post to browse the original website or blog offering the free Kindle books of different categories. Browse the book list on the original site and download your free Kindle copy. You can subscribe to or follow a board to get regular updates of new released free Kindle books. Sometimes you’ll find pages or groups offering a great list of free, popular Kindle books you can download. Go to the home page of Facebook at www.facebook.com and log into your account. Type the keywords “Free Kindle books” in the search box at the top left corner. Facebook should show you different lists of pages and groups offering free Kindle books. Browse those pages and groups to view their list of free Kindle books. You can download free popular Kindle books on those pages and groups easily.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Ask your friends and get Kindle books from their collection. Check the Pinterest pin boards offering free Kindle books. Search on Facebook.


Heavy digging and cultivation can cause weed seeds to come to the surface and begin growing. Only disturb the soil when you have to, so that you don’t inadvertently raise weed seeds.  Weed seeds can lay dormant under the soil for years.  Hoeing or tilling in weed prone areas may inadvertently bring up dormant weed seeds in the process.  Many plants need an exposure to sunlight to germinate. Cultivating at night reduces the chance that weeds will germinate. If you are having an issue with weeds growing in between cracks in a walkway or sidewalk, try using salt to prevent future weed growth. Be warned that salt will also kill other vegetation in the area, so make sure to use it only in spots that are weed prone.  Amine salt is a good solution for killing weeds and can be combined with water in a spray bottle for easier application.  Borax is another, more caustic solution to killing weeds in small cracks. Make sure to use gloves when handling it. Weeds like to grow in open areas that are abundant in nutrients and minerals. You can prevent them by maintaining a thick and healthy lawn that has grass and other lawn plants to compete with weeds that may want to grow in the area.  Keeping your lawn fertilized will promote healthy growth for all plants on your lawn or garden bed.  Reseeding lawns in the fall will promote healthy grass growth next season because many weeds die late in the fall, and the grass seeds will have less to compete with.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Refrain from disturbing the soil. Sprinkle weed prone sidewalks with salt. Maintain a thick and healthy lawn.


Traditional language packs translate the majority of the UI elements, and are only available to Ultimate and Enterprise users (see the above section). For everyone else, there are LIPs. These are smaller packs that translate the most-used parts of the interface. They require a base-language installed, since not everything is translated. You can browse through all of the available LIPs here. The third column of the table will let you know what base language the LIP requires, as well as what versions of Windows it works with. If the LIP requires Ultimate or Enterprise, you'll need to upgrade your copy of Windows to change the language. This will open the page for the language you've selected. The page will be displayed in that language. This will open a new window displaying the language files. You will have the option to choose between a 32-bit or a 64-bit file. You can find the version that you have by opening the Start menu, right-clicking "Computer", and selecting "Properties". Look for the "System type" entry. The LIP file will be downloaded to your Downloads folder. This will open the language installer with your new language automatically selected. Click Next to start the installation. You'll be asked to read and accept the Microsoft terms before the language is installed. The ReadMe file for the language you select will be displayed before it is installed. You usually don't need to review this, but it may contain information about known issues or compatibility problems. This may take a few moments. After the installation is complete, you'll see a list of all of your installed languages. Select your newly-installed language and click Change display language. If you want the Welcome screen to change, as well as any system accounts, check the box beneath the list of languages. You will be prompted to log out in order for your new language to be applied. When you log back in, Windows will be using the new language. Anything that isn't translated with the LIP will be displayed in the base language. Some programs designed for certain languages will only display the language if the system is set to that region.  Click the Start menu and open the Control Panel. Open the "Region and Language" option. Click the Administrative tab and then click Change system locale. Select the language that you just installed, and reboot your computer when prompted.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Understand the difference between language packs and Language Interface Packs (LIPs). Visit the LIP download page. Check the requirements. Click the "Get it now" link. Click the "Download" button. Select the appropriate file for your computer. Check the box for the file and then click the "Download" button. Double-click the downloaded file. Review the ReadMe file. Wait for the language to install. Select and apply your new language. Log out to complete the change. Set a new system locale if some programs don't recognize the new language.


Click or double-click the Microsoft Edge app icon, which is either a dark-blue "e" or a white "e" on a dark-blue background. It's in the top-right corner of the Edge window. A drop-down menu will appear. This option is near the bottom of the drop-down menu. A pop-out menu will appear on the right side of the window. It's in the middle of the pop-out menu. This option is in the middle of the menu.  You can uncheck every other box here, but the "Form data" box must be checked. If this box is already checked, skip this step. It's at the bottom of the menu. Doing so will clear your Microsoft Edge search box history.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Open Microsoft Edge. Click ⋯. Click Settings. Click Choose what to clear. Check the "Form data" box. Click Clear.


Heat is the main culprit of dry, frizzy hair, and hairdryers can wreak havoc on your beautiful curls. Fortunately, because your hair is so short, it should not take very long for your curls to air-dry.  If your hair is soaking wet, pat it dry with a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel, since this can create frizz. If you must blow dry your hair, use a diffuser to prevent voluminous frizz. Avoid detangling your hair with a regular hair brush or fine-toothed comb since they can create frizz. Instead, work a wide-toothed comb through your hair. Start by combing out the ends and gradually work your way to the roots to prevent additional tangles. In a pinch, you can also detangle your hair by running your fingers through your curls. How much styling mousse you use depends on how short your hair is. Start with a dime-sized amount, then add more as needed. Work the mousse into your hair evenly from root to tip. You can also experiment with curling gels, creams, and setting lotions. You can deep-condition your curls with keratin-based treatments or masks. Apply the conditioner to your hair, give it time to penetrate the hair shaft, then rinse it out according to the instructions on the label.  Hydration helps your curls look silky and defined. You can buy keratin-based treatments in salons and beauty supply stores.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Let your hair air-dry, if possible, to prevent frizz. Detangle damp hair with a wide-toothed comb. Apply styling mousse while your hair is damp to define your curls. Deep-condition your hair every 1-2 weeks to combat dryness and frizz.


Place your underwear face up and flat on your bed. Fold the bottom up toward the waistband. Fold both sides inward toward the middle. At this point your underwear should look like a square. Then fold the square in half. Stack the underwear on top of each other, or line them side by side in the drawer. Place the underwear flat on your bed face up. Starting from the waistband, tightly roll your underwear down toward the bottom. Leave 2 inches (5.1 cm) of fabric at the bottom. Flip it over. Fold both sides in toward the middle, and fold the bottom up. Once you fold the bottom up, there should be a pocket. Finish the roll method by: Folding one side of the pocket up and around the entire piece of underwear until it looks like a little roll or a burrito. Some underwear garments may be too small to fold like thongs. Place the underwear flat on your bed or floor. Stack the underwear one on top of the other into a pile. Place the pile in your drawer. You do not have to fold your underwear if you do not want to. You can choose to just haphazardly place your underwear in the different sections of your drawer. You can also stack them flat, one pair on top of the other. Place one bra cup into the other to fold your bras. If a bra has a matching panty, place the panty in between the cups. You can either stack your bras on top of each other, or place one in front of the other in a row in your drawer.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Use the traditional "square" method to fold your underwear. Use the roll method to maximize space. Stack up small underwear garments that can't be folded or rolled. Choose not to fold your underwear. Fold your bras.


To use this method, you need to know the length of the base, or you need to be provided with a line segment that represents the base. You also need to know the measurement of the two angles adjacent to the base. Remember that the two angles adjacent to the base of an isosceles triangle will be equal. For example, you might know that an isosceles triangle has a base measuring 9 cm, with two adjacent 45-degree angles. If you know the measurement of the base, use a ruler to draw it the appropriate length. Make sure to measure exactly, and to create a straight line. You can also draw the base by setting the compass to the same width as a provided line segment. Draw an endpoint. Make the other endpoint using the compass. Then use a straightedge to connect the two endpoints. Use a protractor to draw the angle on the left side of the base. The vector should pass a little more than halfway over the base, so that it will intersect with the other side of the triangle.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Assess what you know. Draw the base. Draw the first angle.


The faster you get to the wood stain, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to remove it. Wash the stained item as soon as you discover the wood stain. If you find the stain and it has already dried, you can still attempt to wash it out. But it might not be as effective. If you rub the stain (especially if it is still wet), you run the risk of making the stain bigger and spreading to other parts of the fabric. Rubbing it can also push the stain deeper into the fibers of the fabric and make it set into the fibers more firmly. If you must rub the stain (in order to clean it, for example), try to rub the stained part of the cloth against itself as best you can, leaving the unstained part alone. If you’ve got a wood stain on your clothes, you should wear protective gloves as you attempt to remove the stain. This will protect your hands and skin from coming into contact with any potentially harmful stain-removal products. Rubber gloves work best for this kind of protection.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Treat and wash the stain as soon as possible. Avoid rubbing the wood stain. Wear gloves to treat the stained clothes.


Before you can take a screenshot, you must make sure that the screen which you want to screenshot is up with no distractions (e.g., open windows or programs). It's typically found in the upper-right side of the keyboard, just right of the row of "Function" keys (e.g., F12) at the top of the keyboard. Pressing the Print Screen key will take a picture of the entire screen's contents.  The Print Screen key may be entitled "PrtSc" or something similar. If your computer has an Fn key in the lower-left side of the keyboard, you might need to press Fn and ⎙ Print Screen at the same time. This program comes installed on all Windows computers. To open it:  Open Start {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/0\/07\/Windowsstart.png","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Windowsstart.png\/30px-Windowsstart.png","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":460,"bigWidth":"30","bigHeight":"30","licensing":"

I edited this screenshot of a Windows icon.\n<\/p>
License: Public Domain<\/a>
\n<\/p><\/div>"} On Windows 8, open Search   Click the search bar at the bottom of the Start menu. Type in paint  Click Paint at the top of the Start window. On Windows 8, Paint will be in the Search results.  For a Windows XP computer, click Start, select Programs, select Accessories, and click Paint. Once the Paint window opens, press Ctrl+V to paste in the screenshot. You should see the screenshot appear in the Paint window. Press Ctrl+S, then enter a name for your screenshot, select a save folder on the left side of the window, and click Save.  You can change the screenshot's file type by clicking the "Save as type" drop-down box at the bottom of the window and then clicking a different format (e.g., JPEG) in the drop-down menu. The most common file types are JPG and PNG. The recommended format for screenshots is PNG, due to the high quality and small file size.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Go to the screen that you want to screenshot. Press the ⎙ Print Screen key. Open Paint. Paste in the screenshot. Save the screenshot.


Although your body requires sodium in small amounts, consuming too much sodium is bad for you and can lead to hypertension, heart disease and stroke. If you suffer from high blood pressure, take steps to reduce your sodium intake:  Do not add salt to foods when cooking but use other spices instead (cumin, lemon pepper, fresh herbs). Rinse canned foods to remove sodium. Buy foods that are labeled “low sodium” or “sodium free.” Avoid processed foods, such as crackers, fried items, and baked goods, that often are high in sodium. Also avoid eating fast food and ask for reduced sodium when ordering in restaurants. A high fiber diet may help reduce your risk of hypertension. Fortunately, it’s easy to get fiber from the healthy foods you’re likely already eating. Incorporate more whole grains, fresh veggies, and fruit with the skin on it into your diet. This will help you consume at least 25 grams of fiber each day.  Make sure you get at least six to eight servings of whole grains every day. Switch refined grains to whole grains, such as brown rice and whole wheat pasta and bread. Potassium-rich foods should be a part of your hypertension management diet. Foods you should add include sweet potatoes, tomatoes, kidney beans, orange juice, bananas, peas, potatoes, dried fruits, melon and cantaloupe. Keep your target potassium levels moderate (around 2,000 to 4,000 mg a day). Dark chocolate may help lower blood pressure, though it might not work the same for everyone. Eat dark chocolate whenever you’re craving a treat. Choose a bar that has at least 70% cocoa.  Eat a half an ounce of dark chocolate that has at least 70% of cocoa per day.  Because dark chocolate is high in calories, be sure not to overindulge. Besides being bad for blood pressure, caffeine and alcohol also have other negative health effects to you and your baby during pregnancy. Thus, you should avoid both, especially if you suffer from high blood pressure.  Drinking caffeine during pregnancy has been linked to declined placental blood flow and a risk of miscarriage. Although more studies are needed to confirm the effects of caffeine, it is best to switch to decaf during your pregnancy.  High alcohol consumption is known to raise blood pressure and it is also known to have negative effects on your unborn baby. Before drinking any alcohol, even just one glass of wine, consult your doctor. A clinical study demonstrated that systolic blood pressure can be lowered by adding these foods to your diet.  Add low-fat or fat-free dairy products (such as milk, cottage cheese, yogurt) to your diet. If you are lactose intolerant, try a milk alternative, such as almond, coconut, or hemp milk.  You can also try soy milk, but you may want to limit soy products during pregnancy since it may increase estrogen levels in your fetus.  Go easy on the amount of cheese you eat (even low-fat) due to their high sodium content.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Avoid salt and high-sodium foods, which increase your risk. Consume more whole grains and fresh produce to get fiber. Eat potassium-rich foods to help lower your blood pressure. Indulge with dark chocolate. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Add soy and low-fat milk products to help lower your blood pressure.


Walk around your tractor doing an inspection before climbing on. Loose wheel lugs, nuts or bolts may need periodic tightening. Low pressure in one or more tires may cause instability and create a safety hazard. If you're not driving your tractor every day, make it a routine to give the tires a quick once-over so you know they're in good shape before you get way out in a field. Do this when your tractor attachments are behind the tractor. Check the cooling system, radiator and battery levels to make sure they are in the proper range.Make sure you have enough oil and fuel to complete the job or task at hand. Wear good-quality boots with gripping soles, and keep any long hair tied back. Avoid dangling jewelry that could become caught in moving machinery, and avoid wearing loose or baggy clothing while operating a tractor. Always climb into the tractor using the proper hand holds.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Look for tractor safety issues. Check your tractor's tire pressure. Inspect your stabilizer chains to ensure they are properly secured. Open the hood of your tractor. Be safe at all times.


You can make use of apps that can be used to make it appear as if you are receiving a phone call. Browse the app store on your iPhone, Blackberry, Android or other smartphone device by using a search term such as "fake call." There will be options on the app store that are offered for free or can be purchased. Be sure to read reviews to determine what features will suit your needs best as the features will vary between apps. You may also find apps that generate prank calls by offering specific personalities such as celebrities, characters or even a significant other. These may not provide the same versatility as general apps, but may be useful for themed occasions such as the holidays or birthdays. You may have options available such as making a fake identity for your mystery caller, using a contact from your contact’s list, pre-recording audio and scheduling the call. Plan out when you are to receive a call to use in an appropriate situation.  Apps will allow you to create a name, phone number and provide a photo to create an identity to a fake caller. When receiving a call, the phone call interface will look similar to the phone call interface of your phone. You can also choose between other phone interfaces if it does not match your device. In some apps, you are allowed to create your own interface. Try to match it as close as possible to yours. Handing the phone to someone who is familiar with your phone device may uncover your prank. Apps can provide an array of audio clips that provide different topics, personality types or you can even create your own by providing a compatible audio file. The app may not allow you to record a conversation, but you will be able to use other apps to record audio. Apps will allow you to place the call immediately. If you want the app to call at a later time, you can set it’s scheduler to place a call after a certain period, or you can have it place a call at a specific time. You can use allow the app to run in the background or place your phone in sleep mode to simulate receiving a call. Be sure to practice the situation beforehand. Try to rehearse and memorize the call in order to provide a convincing situation. If you are to give the phone to someone, make sure the prank app is not visible. Your phone will still receive regular calls from other phones which can interrupt your prank. Be sure not to schedule your call when you are expecting to receive an actual call.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Download an app for your mobile device. Configure the app. Activate the call.


People who are narcissistic tend to consider themselves to be better than other people and this kind of attitude is often easy to recognize. Pay attention to the things that people say and do and consider whether the person seems to have a higher opinion of him or herself than is appropriate. You might notice that the person:  seems to live in a fantasy world where he or she has unlimited power, ideal love, beauty, or success. claims to be special or important and only wishes to associate with other people who he or she deems special or important. behaves in an arrogant way, such as by making rude remarks or commenting about being superior to other people. People who are narcissistic think very highly of themselves, but they also expect people to praise them endlessly. If you encounter someone who gets upset if you do not focus all of your attention on how intelligent, accomplished, beautiful, or otherwise valuable he or she is, then this might be a narcissist. For example, the person might purposely talk about accomplishments, small or large, and he or she might sulk if you do not provide the praise that he or she desires. People who are narcissistic often treat other people poorly. If you meet someone who treats you poorly or who you have noticed treats other people poorly, then this person may be a narcissist. Some behaviors to watch for include:  Exploiting or taking advantage of other people. Not empathizing or considering other people’s feelings. Envying other people or accusing other people of being envious of them.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Note a sense of grandiosity or self-importance. Watch for someone who needs to be admired constantly. Pay attention to how the person treats other people.


If your ham turns out to be overly salty, you can diminish some of the saltiness by serving it with dairy products like cheese, sour cream, or cottage cheese. The dairy products will help counteract the salty flavor of the ham.  Try chopping up the ham and cooking adding it to scalloped potatoes. Add salty ham to an omelet with cheddar and vegetables for a quick breakfast or lunch. Acid can help mask the salty flavor of ham. If your ham is too salty, consider drizzling a little lemon on it to help mask the ham’s saltiness. Make sure you only use a tiny amount and no more than a tablespoon for the entire ham. Rub the lemon juice on the outside of the ham and let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving.  You can also try white vinegar to help mask the saltiness. Taste the ham after fifteen minutes. If it is still too salty, allow the vinegar or lemon juice to soak in for another ten to fifteen minutes. If you are dealing with leftover ham that is too salty, you can still make use of it by using less. For example, if you are adding the ham to a soup or stew, use two-thirds of the amount called for in the recipe. This can help cut back on the salty flavor while still allowing you to make the most of your leftovers.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Serve it with dairy products. Add a little lemon juice to cooked ham. Use less ham in the recipe.


Line up the device so that the display sits on the top (or backside) of your wrist. This will allow you to get a clear look at the readout anytime, whether you’re out for a jog or just checking the time.  Make sure the display is facing the right way so that it will be visible whenever you look down. It’s also possible to strap your Fitbit to an ankle if you need to keep your hands free, though this may skew your stats. Wrap the straps around either side of your wrist until they overlap. Holding the device with one hand, slide the top strap along the series of holes in the bottom strap until you find the setting that feels best.  Aim for a fit that's snug but not too tight. You should be able to slide the Fitbit about half an inch up or down your arm without difficulty. Insert the double clasp into the two holes that correspond to your ideal fit, then press them firmly until they click into place. If you’re wearing a model with a traditional buckle, like the Charge 2 or Surge, run the top strap through the buckle, then guide the prong into the desired hole and pull to tighten.  Brand new bands can be a little stiff. It may help to flex or practice snapping them closed a few times to loosen them up. To keep the Fitbit from coming undone, make sure the clasps have been pushed all the way through both holes.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Place the Fitbit around your wrist. Adjust the straps until you achieve the desired fit. Secure the straps.


At the very least, find one other person to play you in a one-on-one contest. If more people are available, include up to five others in a game, for a total of six players. Either use a brand new pack fresh out of its wrapping, or double-check your old one to confirm that all cards are there. Either way, make sure you’re starting off with all 52 cards that make up a standard deck.  A full deck should include:  Four “suits:” clubs, diamonds, hearts and spades. 13 cards per suit: ace, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, jack, queen, and king. Expect a standard 52-card deck to also include two jokers. However, you won’t need these to play Tonk. Weed them out from the deck and set them aside before you begin. If you’re playing for money, establish what the stakes will be for each hand played per game before the game begins. Expect one game to include at least a few hands. Also bear in mind that stakes can be doubled during each game, so take that into account before agreeing to the basic stake played per hand. Have each player draw one card from the deck. Then lay your cards out on the table. Assign the first deal to whoever has the highest card. Aces vary between being the highest and lowest card from game to game. In Tonk, however, aces are always the lowest. When dealing, give each player five cards. Keep them facing down so no one can see each other’s cards. Deal each card individually so you don’t accidentally deal more cards than intended to any one player. Five cards per player isn’t a hard-and-fast rule. Some people deal as little as three, while others go with seven or even as many as twelve. Feel free to adjust the amount however you see fit.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Gather enough people to play. Make sure your deck is full. Discard the jokers. Settle on the stakes if gambling. Cut cards to settle on who deals first. Deal the first hand.


If you have a repair kit, it’ll have the material you need to create a patch. Otherwise, an old bath curtain or pool liner are great substitutes. Use scissors to cut a patch that is a little larger than the area you wish to cover. This will ensure the patch stays tight and in place over the hole.  Repair kits come with some mattresses and can also be purchased wherever air mattresses are sold. Bike tire patch kits also work well for repairing air mattresses. Find them at bike and general stores. Brush the rubber cement over the back of the patch. Also spread a layer over the leaking area. You can use a rubber glove to smooth the glue in order to ensure the patch stays flat against the mattress.  Other strong glues, such as super glue, contact cement, or epoxy, may also work. You can also find glue that is specifically designed for surfaces such as air mattresses, pool floats, or whitewater rafts. This glue can be found where these items are sold. Set the patch over the leaking area and press down on it until it’s flat. Weigh the patch down with a heavy object, such as a book. Leave the patch there for up to 12 hours if possible. If you don’t have time to wait for the glue to dry, the patch may come off. Try using duct tape or another cover material until you can cover the leak properly. Hook the mattress up to the pump and fill it with air. Listen for any leaks. To test this, you can put talcum powder around the patch. If the mattress is still leaking there, the air will blow off the powder.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Cut a patch out of a vinyl shower curtain. Spread rubber cement over the patch. Set the patch in place and leave it for 6 hours. Inflate the mattress to test it.


Lyft is available for free from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Lyft is not available on Windows phones.  You can also sign up by visiting lyft.com in a web browser. The process is virtually identical. Lyft is not currently available in all cities. For a full list of cities that Lyft is available in, see lyft.com/cities. Click a city to see a more detailed map of the coverage area, and whether or not drivers serve the airports. You'll be taken to the account creation screen. If you use Facebook, you can tap the "Facebook Connect" button to log in with your Facebook account. If you have the Facebook app installed, you'll be logged in automatically. If you don't, you'll be taken to the Facebook website to log in. If you don't have or don't want to use a Facebook account, you can enter your first and last name, as well as your email address, and tap "Next." If you're using the app to sign up, your phone's number will be displayed. You can change this to a different number if you'd like. The phone number must be a mobile phone and be able to receive SMS messages. If you're signing up through the website, you'll need to enter your phone number.  Make sure you enter an actual phone number, as you'll need to verify it to create the account. You'll need to check the box indicating that you agree to Lyft's Terms of Service. You will be prompted to enter the four-digit code that is sent to your number via SMS. If you are using the number for the phone Lyft is installed on, the code will be entered automatically as soon as you receive the text. This will verify your number and activate your account.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Download and install the Lyft app on your smartphone. Tap the "Sign Up" button. Login with Facebook or create an account with your email address. Enter your phone number. Enter the code that is texted to your phone.


Your body converts vitamin B3 into NAD, so supplements intended to boost NAD levels usually contain B-group vitamins. However, too much vitamin B can damage your liver and cause other harmful effects. Furthermore, dietary supplements can negatively interact with some medications, so you need to discuss your diet and any medications you take with your doctor before starting one.  Ask your doctor, "Should I be concerned about getting enough nutrients from my diet? Would a dietary supplement negatively interact with any of my medications? Do you recommend I make any changes to my diet?" A negative drug interaction can cause harmful side effects or make your medication ineffective. NR is a type of vitamin B3 and is gaining credibility in the scientific community as an effective way to increase NAD levels. You can find over-the-counter NR supplements online, at pharmacies, and at health stores. Try taking 100 to 250 mg with a glass of water before your first meal of the day. While 100 to 250 mg is a recommended dose, it’s best to ask your doctor about proper dosing. Some NR supplements also contain pterostilbene or resveratrol, which might enhance your body’s ability to use NAD. They’re also available as supplements on their own. Be sure to discuss proper dosages with your doctor and ask them if taking a dietary supplement is right for you. Vitamin D is important for a variety of bodily functions, and it might boost NAD levels. While you can get vitamin D from milk, fortified cereals, and direct sunlight, you could also ask your doctor about taking a daily supplement to reach your daily recommended amount of Vitamin D. While the daily recommended amount of Vitamin D for adults is 800 IU, you could need more or less depending on your age, diet, and daily exposure to sunlight. Keep it mind it’s better to get B-group vitamins, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients from healthy foods instead of dietary supplements.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Talk to your doctor before taking any dietary supplement. Take 100 to 250 mg of nicotinamide riboside (NR) per day. Try taking pterostilbene or resveratrol supplements. Start taking vitamin D supplements.


The big bad strings of a bass can take a lot of abuse, and you should feel free to really play with them. Strum softly with your thumb, then pluck hard on a lower strings to get the crisp, satisfying pop. Slap the string with your palm to get it ringing. Play muted notes, where you aren't pressing fully on the fret, to get a percussive "note" instead of a melody. Varying these "textures" is a great way to build an essential sense of rhythm into your bass lines. Funk gains power through repetition. You are the one keeping the band and melody on track, providing a sturdy base to dance on. You don't want to be switching up your licks or grooves every 2-3 bars, you want to be reliable. However, the occasional deviation is exciting, fresh, and funky. Every 4 bars or so, mix it up -- hitting a higher version of your root note, sliding out of the lick, etc. By restraining yourself, you make your subtle deviations even more exciting. Stevie Wonder's "Higher Ground" has a kicking, relatively regular bassline. But, when Stevie's' voice kicks it up an octave, he switches up the final two beats with a nasty little slide that signals the shift in and out of the chord change. The notes you play are just as important as the ones you don't. Syncopation, which is when you leave pauses and spaces where listeners expect a note, is crucial to good funk. In general, spaces are used to make the note immediately before or after feel more important, meaning the two and four beats are great places to put a little silence.  Rhythmic variety is created by having spaces. And variety, especially when synced up with your drummer, is where the funk starts to shine. Check out Kendrick Lamar's "King Kunta", paying attention to the just barely syncopated pause after the three beat. You expect the note to hold, like it does after the one, but the unexpected syncopation gives it a fresh, immediately danceable feel. Once you have the rhythm down, getting the groove with a few simple notes, you can expand your funky chops but copying the masters. Look up the tabs to every song that catches your ear. Focus on getting them perfect, note for note. How do other masters fill in the gaps? How do they emphasize the one and three? How do they use silence to their advantage? While you should listen to anything you love, some classic bassists to start with include:  Larry Graham (with Sly and the Family Stone, Graham Central Station) Bootsy Collins (with Parliament-Funkadelic, James Brown, his own band) James Jamerson (with the James Brown Band) Victor Wooten (solo, with SMV)

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Get physical with your strings. Let repetition become your friend, to a point. Don't be afraid of spaces and silences. Learn funky bass lines that you love to expand your vocabulary.


Fenugreek interacts with a variety of medications prescribed for diabetes as well as some blood thinners. For this reason, it is essential that you check with your doctor before adding fenugreek to your regimen. It may interfere with the medications that you are taking to help treat diabetes as well as other conditions. Always check with your doctor first before discontinuing or adding any medication or supplement. The recommended dosage for fenugreek is between 2.5–15 grams (0.09–0.5 oz) daily, so it is important to talk to your doctor about your intentions and ask for a recommendation based on your weight and other factors. You may also want to consult an experienced herbalist or naturopath. The most common dose used in studies was 12.5 grams (0.4 oz) of powdered fenugreek taken twice daily. However, some studies have shown benefit from taking only 2.5 grams (0.09 oz) twice daily. Some people do not like the taste of fenugreek seeds, so capsules are often recommended.  If you choose to take fenugreek in supplement form, make sure that the product you choose is of high quality. The packaging should provide:   Realistic information about the effects of taking the supplement Information such as dosage recommendations, side effects, and ingredients A label that is easy to read and understand Company information such as a phone number, mailing address, or website. Some people do like the taste of fenugreek and may opt to add the seeds to food. You can seek out recipes that include fenugreek or simply sprinkle the seeds on your food as a garnish. Keep in mind that you should still follow your doctor’s recommendations for healthy eating. When adding fenugreek to food, 15 grams (0.53 oz) was a common dosage in some studies. Making a fenugreek tea seems to produce the best results according to some studies. One study showed no significant results for patients who took fenugreek with yogurt, while those who took fenugreek with hot water experienced significant improvement. Participants in this study consumed a total of 10 grams (0.35 oz) of fenugreek per day. Crush or pulverize 2.5 grams (0.09 oz) of fenugreek seeds using a mortar and pestle or food processor. Then, add the seeds to a mug and pour eight ounces of boiling water over them. Stir well with a spoon. Then wait for the mixture to cool to drinking temperature and enjoy.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Talk to your doctor before adding fenugreek to your diet. Consider the dose range for fenugreek. Choose a high-quality fenugreek supplement. Add fenugreek to food. Drink fenugreek with hot water.


The types of devices onto which you might want to install a toggle switch will have electrical configurations that vary greatly. Thus, no single guide is likely to provide a one-size-fits-all solution. The steps in this section are meant to be taken as general guidelines for a simple on-off ((single pole, single throw or SPST) toggle switch. They should never supersede any instructions included with your toggle switch or the device into which you're installing it. When in doubt, consult a skilled electrician to save time and avoid inadvertent damage. For your toggle switch to function as an on-off switch, you'll need to wire your toggle switch to the device's power supply. Use wire cutters to cut your device's supply wire in a location that best allows for routing either or both ends of the wire to the switch. Strip approximately 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) of insulation from each end of the wire using a wire stripper. A pigtail is a short length of wire (usually about 6 inches (15 cm)) with both ends stripped. It can be connected to wires that aren't quite long enough to reach your toggle switch as a sort of "extender." Add a pigtail as follows:  Determine the gauge of the existing wire and obtain a wire of the same color and gauge. Cut a piece of the wire long enough to reach from the cut end of the supply wire to the toggle switch. Strip 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) of insulation from each end of this piece of wire. Connect one end of the pigtail wire to the supply wire by twisting the ends of the wires together clockwise. Twist a wire nut of the proper size clockwise over the wire joint until the wire nut is tight. At this point, you've made a break in the device's supply wire, you'll need to add your toggle switch in the middle of the break so that it can regulate the flow of electricity through the circuit. The way you do this depends on the type of toggle switch you have. See below:  If your toggle switch has wire leads, twist the end of each lead to one of the supply wires (or pigtail extensions) and twist a wire nut over each wire connection until they're tight. If your toggle switch has screw terminals, loosen the terminal screws, loop the ends of the supply wires and hook each loop over a terminal screw so the loops point clockwise around the shaft of each terminal screw. Then, tighten the terminal screws. If the toggle switch has solder connections, bend the ends of the wires around the switch terminals. Needle-nose pliers may be useful. Heat each terminal with a soldering iron while holding the end of solder wire in contact with the terminal (but not in direct contact with the soldering iron tip). When the solder begins to melt, withdraw the soldering iron tip and allow the melting solder to flow and cover the wire-terminal joint. When your toggle switch is wired properly, carefully reconnect the device's power supply and test the function of the toggle switch. If it works as intended, you may replace the panel or device housing. Congratulations! You've successfully installed a toggle switch.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Defer to the instructions provided with your switch or your device. Cut the supply wire in your device. Add a pigtail if either end of the wire does not reach the switch. Connect the supply wire to the toggle switch. Test your switch.


What's a swordsman without an opponent to duel with? If you want, you can repeat the prior steps and make a second sword. It's usually more fun to get a friend to make one of his own however. That way, your duel will be a test of your craftsmanship as well as your duelling skills. Now that you have a sword, you could go the extra mile and make matching armour to boot. Armour may constitute a breastplate, grieves, gauntlets and even a shield. Part of the fun is thinking up ways to transform the cardboard you have into functional pieces of armour, but plenty of fancy designs are available online as well.  Don't forget to decorate your armour! Anything from felt-tipped markers to glued-on construction paper can liven up your cardboard and bring the armour to life. If you're tired of working with cardboard, you can make great looking armour sets using crafts foam. Duelling is possibly the most enjoyable part of having a sword. It allows you to put your sword design to the test. If your friend has a cardboard sword of his own, you should lay down some quick ground rules and jump into it. Duels are most enjoyable when there are rules of how to win. Going in blindly usually results in the swords being swung as hard as possible and getting broken within the first couple of minutes.  Bear in mind that the swords are relatively fragile when compared to real swords, and they should be used with that in mind. Start a cardboard fighting group if the idea interests you enough. There are already groups in existence where people meet up and play fight with cardboard weapons. Instead of starting one of your own with friends, you can look online to see if there's already a group in your city. Working some kind of live-action roleplaying (or LARPing) into the game can be fun if you're interested in fantasy or Medieval history. Cardboard swords are perfect for use in costumes and events like Halloween. Even if you have a costume in mind that doesn't necessarily befit a sword, feel free to mix and match ideas. You might be surprised at the response you get when you combine unexpected ideas together. Now that you're relatively experienced in the art of sword craft, you might go back to the drawing board and make a better kind of sword. Consider what was good and bad about the sword you made. If you were to make one again, what would you improve? There's nothing so helpful as hands-on experience, and you'll probably find the second sword is a lot easier (and more enjoyable) to make, now that you know precisely what you're doing.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Get a friend to make a sword. Make cardboard armour. Duel with a friend. Apply your sword to a costume. Develop an improved sword design.


Using your forefinger and thumb, pinch your upper eyelid. Be sure to grab the outer ridge of skin on your eyelid, not just your eyelash, as this may lead to you pulling out some eyelashes. Once you've got a good grip on your eyelid, pull it up above your eye, around where your eyebrow is. This will probably feel strange, so don't freak yourself out! In one smooth motion, use your thumb to press your eyelid against the bone under your eyebrow (the supraorbital arch) and withdraw your forefinger. Your thumb will then be holding your eyelid up against your face without your forefinger. Now, with your thumb, gently push your eyelid down so that it folds over itself and flips inside-out. The push-force should be more against your face as you lower your eyelid with your thumb. This is so your eyelid doesn't slip from under your thumb. Follow the same steps you used for your other eyelid. If you're not ambidextrous, this may feel very awkward, but after a few tries you should begin to get the hang of it. After you are satisfied with your friends' freaked-out reactions, you'll probably want your eyelids back in normal, functioning order. Simply look up really hard with your eyes or blink really hard with your eyelids to return your eyelids to normal.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Pinch your eyelid. Pull your eyelid up. Press your eyelid. Push your eyelid down. Repeat this process with your other eyelid. Return your eyelids to normal.


This is the most savory type of sherry, aged for around two years. It’ll be light in color and might have some notes of almond, oak, and possibly vanilla. Another dry, savory wine similar to Fino, but this must be matured in the seaside city of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. This gives the sherry a sharper, fresh, acidic and even slightly salty taste. When a Fino or Manzanilla is aged for even longer, it becomes Amontillado. This lengthier aging process turns the sherry a darker color and imparts notes of peanut, hazelnut, and a salty-caramel quality. These sherries tend to have a higher alcohol content, as well as being sweeter and more full-bodied than other types. A good Oloroso will be amber-colored, but its flavors can vary from dried fruit to leather to wood. This will provide some of the dryness of Amontillado, but maintain the sweetness of Oloroso. Palo Cortado will be a little thicker, with a slight nuttiness and potentially hint of honey. This sweet and acidic sherry is made by allowing the grapes to dry out and turn into raisins before fermenting them. Moscatel and other sweet sherries would be similar options, differentiated mostly by the grapes than any specific style. This might be the most familiar of all types, typically made by combining Oloroso with something sweeter to create a rich and smooth sherry. The flavors of cream sherries can range from coffee to notes of apricot.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Opt for Fino if you like dry sherry. Try Manzanilla for something more acidic. Pick Amontillado for a darker drink. Try Oloroso for something a little sweeter. Pick Palo Cortado for something in between Amontillado and Oloroso. Enjoy the sweetness of Pedro Ximénez. Indulge your sweet tooth with a cream sherry.


They may rest in the back of the closet if it’s an on-trend color that you don’t wear often. You will have more options if you can coordinate some matching hues with your current wardrobe. They may not earn you the right kind of attention at work, but they are ideal for sunny days and barhopping. Pair pastel jeans with a brighter top in the same color. For example a pale pink with a strawberry top.  Finish the look with neutral or metallic shoes. Alternatively, pair bright jeans with a pastel top in the same color. Combining bright colored pants with bright colored tops is the latest style. Try green with red, blue with orange or purple with yellow to take advantage of complimentary colors. This look can be as daring as you want to make it, which is why it is ideal for after work or weekends. Chambray shirts are gaining in popularity, and they are ideally paired with black or colored jeans. Take full advantage of this trend by wearing a cropped denim jacket over your outfit. If you bought the wrong length of pants for your body type, turn it into a summer outfit by cutting at or above the mid-thigh. Pair with tank tops, t-shirts and peplum tops.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Pick your favorite color when you choose colored pants. Choose the neon colored pants and denim for casual outfits, rather than work clothes. Try a monochromatic look. Color block your outfit. Wear colored pants with denim shirts. Cut your colored denim into cutoffs.


Hygiene plays a key role in maintaining skin integrity. Soap, although important in hygiene, can cause irritation and may not help in removing any of the dead skin caused by dryness. Instead, rinse your feet thoroughly with warm water every time you bathe in order to promote moisture. Warm water (40 to 34°C) promotes circulation and both comforts and refreshes your feet. Always wash the bottoms of your feet well and between your toes. You should use a washcloth to get between your toes or use a long handled sponge on your feet if you prefer not to have to bend down in the shower. Make sure you dry well between your toes with a towel as this will prevent the develop of infection, and reduce any odors or bacteria on your feet. Tight, uncomfortable shoes can cause painful foot growths and distort your toe shape. They can also irritate your feet and lead to blisters and cracked skin. Try to wear comfortable shoes that fit well on a daily basis, especially if you are always on your feet throughout the day.  If you wear high heels, look for heels that are wide, stable, and no higher than two inches. Make sure there is enough room in your heels for your toes, as your shoes should not narrow until well past the balls of your feet. You should also alternate your heels heights regularly to prevent your Achilles tendon from shortening. Avoid wearing flip flops and completely flat shoes, as they do not provide arch support. You should also avoid walking around barefoot to avoid developing flat feet. Minimize the amount of time you wear shoes with no arch support to keep your feet healthy and strong. Try to alternate your shoes so you do not wear the same pair every day, even if you have two pairs of the same style. This will prevent shoe odor, and foot infections. You should also change your socks every day so you wear a fresh pair. This will prevent foot irritation and infections, which could trigger dry and cracked skin. Promoting hydration is one of the best ways to keep any part of your skin healthy, including the skin on your feet. If possible, drink whenever you are thirsty--thirst is your body’s way of telling you that you are becoming dehydrated. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Make sure the nail salon sanitizes and cleans every metal instrument before they use them on your feet and only go to a nail salon that is known for its good hygiene. A good nail salon can help remove dry skin from your feet, massage your feet to improve blood circulation, and moisturize your feet so they look their best.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Wash your feet every day. Dry your feet well after a shower or bath. Wear comfortable shoes that don’t restrict or rub your feet. Alternate your shoes and change your socks every day. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Be cautious when getting a professional pedicure in a nail salon.


There are a lot of products on the market for creating fake smoke on stage, one of which is called "Pure Smoke." This product is similar to an e-cigarette, but instead of inhaling the smoke, you can squeeze the trigger and it will generate vapor.   This device takes AA batteries for its battery pack, which is connected to a long wire that reaches the squeezable trigger mechanism. The mechanism is made to be attached to your chest, but can be placed anywhere. A hose then runs from the mechanism to the dispenser tip, which you can place near your mouth so it would appear as if you are smoking. Pure Smoke creates similar vapor to that of fog machines used on stage, but in lesser quantities. When purchasing this product, you will receive 11 cartridges, which is about 850 puffs of smokes. It may be a little pricy to some, but it's effective! Make sure when buying Pure Smoke that you are buying the kind specifically to create fog or fake smoke on stage. There are other types of pure smoke used for Hookah and electronic cigarettes, so you'll want to avoid those. These can be very useful if you are trying to trick someone and make them believe you are smoking a real cigarette. They can be purchased online, or you can create your own. The trick to these cigarettes is to blow out -- don't inhale.  To make toy cigarettes, take a white piece of paper, roll it up, and tape it closed. Place cotton at one end and then pour a white powder into the other end. Now, blow from either end and it will look like you are smoking a cigarette! Be aware that these cigarettes don't last very long. They allow you to make a few puffs of smoke, but because you are just making smoke with the powder inside the cigarette, you won't be able to use it for hours on end. A really unique way to create smoke is by using the powder that ground up Smarties create. You can do this by grinding up the candy and rolling it into a piece of paper like a toy cigarette, or you can use the wrapper.  When using the wrapper, smash the Smarties inside the wrapper, keeping both sides wrapped and then open up one end and gently inhale the Smartie dust and breathe out. Unlike the toy cigarettes, you will inhale the smoke from the Smarties, but make sure you don't take too deep of a breath. Try to keep the air in your mouth, not letting it go to the back of your throat and into your diaphragm.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Purchase theatrical smoke creators. Create or buy toy cigarettes. Use Smarties.


Rubbing alcohol, acetone, and paint thinner are all great options. You can also use a household cleaner with pine oil in it, like Pine-Sol. If you’re using rubbing alcohol, be sure to get the highest percentage that you can find: 91% or 99%. If the percentage is lower than that, the rubbing alcohol won’t have any effect.  If you have sensitive skin, it would be a good idea to wear plastic or vinyl gloves. Acetone may damage some types of plastic, such as Plexiglass or vinyl-based plastic. It’s safe for fiberglass and polyester resin, however. This is important, because different types of plastic react different types of solvents. Pick up a drop of your solvent with a soft paintbrush a Q-tip, or even a toothpick, and place the drop onto an inconspicuous area on your item. Wait a few minutes, then rinse the solvent off.  If nothing happens to the plastic, the solvent may be safe to use. Keep in mind that some solvents may need hours before they have an adverse effect on your item. If the plastic changes color or texture, don’t use the solvent. You might even want to press the area with your fingernail; if you see an indent, choose a different solvent. This will work the best with acetone, but you may be able to use rubbing alcohol as well. Simply soak your cotton ball with your solution, then rub it across the painted area until the paint comes off.  Discard the cotton ball when it gets dirty, and use a new one. Acetone evaporates fast, so you’ll have to re-soak the cotton ball often. If you don’t do this, the fuzz will stick the the paint. If the cotton ball is not working, pour your rubbing alcohol or acetone over the painted area, then scrub it with a stiff-bristled brush. Keep applying your solvent and scrubbing until the paint comes off. Avoid nylon brushes if you are using acetone, or the bristles may melt. Place your item into a container, then fill the container with enough of your solution to submerge the item. Leave the item in the solution for 15 to 60 minutes, then pull the item out. Scrub the paint off with a stiff-bristled toothbrush or manicure brush. Clean the item with soap and water afterwards, then let it dry.  This method works best with paint thinner and household cleaners. You can soak most plastic items in household cleaner for up to 24 hours.  If there’s still residue on the item, dip it into the solution, then scrub it again. Think of this as scrubbing dried food off of a plate.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Choose your solvent. Test your solvent in an inconspicuous area. Wipe small areas down with a cotton ball soaked in your solution. Use a stiff-bristled brush for stubborn stains. Soak fully-painted items in your solution, then scrub the paint off.


Some college career centers have advisors who can help you prepare with a mock interview.  Take advantage of this service if it’s available.  If mock interview help is not available at your school, sit with a friend or family member (preferably someone with engineering experience) and provide them with a list of potential questions you expect to be asked during your job interview. Invite the mock interviewer to ask their own relevant questions if they think of any. Employers want to see someone who has self-knowledge and a certain degree of passion for engineering.  For instance, you might say, “I am passionate about engineering because I love the creative process, the collaborative lab environment, and the knowledge that my engineering is contributing to a better world.  I’d like to bring that passion to your company.” Be able to describe your career goals in a sentence or two. Read the company’s values and mission statement, and make note of how they resonate with you.  Do some research into what sorts of products the company makes or what sorts of services it provides, and use this information in the interview to explain why you’re interested in working for them. For instance, if you’re applying to be a medical device engineer, you could say, “I believe in your company’s mission of empowering doctors and medical professionals to do their jobs better and, ultimately, save lives.” For instance, when you’re asked about what experiences make a great engineer, don’t talk about the importance of generosity.  Talking too much or rambling will make the interviewers doubt your competency. Be as direct, focused, and concise as possible when answering your interviewer's questions. Your answers should typically be 30 to 90 seconds long. Deliver your answers with confidence.  Speak at a normal pace and an audible volume.  Look your interviewers in the eye and smile as you speak.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Do a mock interview with your college advisor or someone you trust. Be prepared to explain why you’ve chosen to become an engineer. Do some background research into the company you’re applying to. Stay focused on the questions you’re asked when answering. Don’t rush your answers or mumble.


The grooves on towels can pull apart the strands on your hair, creating frizz. This makes static more likely. Instead of using a towel to dry your hair, have an old t-shirt in your bathroom. Use that to pat your hair dry after a shower. Shampooing your hair too frequently dries it out. This can lead to an increased risk for static. Cut back on how often you shampoo your hair. Try applying shampoo every other day or every three days instead of every day. If you want your hair to still feel smooth even without shampoo, add a small amount of conditioner instead of shampoo. An iconic hairdryer can be purchased at most drug stores for about $20. They work differently from regular hairdryers and can neutralize static. If you dry your hair frequently, an iconic hairdryer may be worth the investment. Brushing your hair can create friction. This encourages static. Instead of using a brush on your hair, use a comb.  Opt for a wide-toothed comb. The wider the bristles, the less static you'll generate. If you strongly prefer using a brush, try one with boar bristles. These fibers tend to be less harsh on hair.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Dry your hair with a t-shirt instead of a towel. Do not shampoo your hair every day. Switch to an iconic hairdryer. Comb your hair instead of brushing it.


There is no single career path for herbalists. Find a niche that you can fill based on your expertise and the needs of the community. For example, you might specialize in making tinctures for specific conditions, like menopause, or work primarily with a particular population, such as pregnant women. Possible livelihoods for herbalists include:   Naturopathic physician or practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical herbalism, in a private or integrated practice Making herbal products, such as tinctures or tea blends Retailing and marketing herbal products, online or in a brick-and-mortar store Teaching about herbalism, for instance in herbal schools, community centers, conferences, or camps Researching herbs for universities or governments, or doing GMP testing on products. Alternatively, you could work with a supplement manufacturer. These jobs can get you connections in the field and help you network with other herbalists and related specialists. The paycheck can also help you financially as you try to grow your career as an herbalist. Search online for full- and part-time jobs in the herbalist field. Check out https://www.naturalindustryjobs.com/currentjobs.asp for listings of relevant positions. Market yourself and your business with a nice website and social media pages. Connect with successful herbalists and healthcare practitioners online, by following them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and signing up for mailing lists. Analyze the ways that they advertise, get clients, and connect with their communities, and implement successful practices into your own marketing plan. Try writing articles for blogs or local papers to get your name out there and showcase your expertise. Start with friends and family members and ask them to refer people they know to you. You can also post ads in the newspaper, at local businesses, or online to get new clients. Ask your clients to pass your information along to anybody they know who might be in need of herbalist services. Join small business associations and try taking a course in business, bookkeeping, and marketing. Some herbal schools also provide business-focused training programs, such as the Herbal Academy’s Entrepreneur Course or the Commonwealth Herbs’ Business Mentorship. Check out the book Business Mastery by massage therapist Cherie M. Sohnen-Moe for a helpful guide in mastering the business side of your career.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Choose your specialties or services, depending on interest and demand. Work in a natural food store to get your foot in the door. Develop an online presence. Build up a client base. Get business training if your money and marketing skills aren’t strong.


You can season the fries with regular salt, Old Bay seasoning, or even Cajun seasoning. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup or ranch. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Provide a summary of the article in two or three sentences:

Season the fries with salt, if desired, and serve them.