How to Brew Coffee with a French Press

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Buy the freshest, unground roasted coffee beans you can find.

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If you shop for coffee beans in a local store, look for beans in a tightly sealed bag, rather than in open dispensers or bins. Check packaging dates. The fresher the beans, the better the brew. Roasted beans lose their flavor quickly, and ground coffee becomes stale even faster.

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Store unused beans carefully to maintain flavor.

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Don’t refrigerate coffee beans; condensation of water in beans can speed up degradation. Keep the bag sealed until you need to open it, and reseal the bag after every use. Store your coffee beans in a cool, dry place.

If you have more beans than you can use in two weeks, put the sealed bag in a plastic bag and close tightly before saving to your freezer. When you need more coffee beans, take the bags out of the freezer and let stand to room temperature before opening the outer bag.

Moisture is your coffee beans’ arch enemy.

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Measure fresh filtered or spring water into a kettle and bring to a boil.

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Turn off the heat and let the water sit for 30 to 60 seconds, which is called “off-boil.”)

Bad-tasting water may affect the flavor of your brewed coffee. Do your own taste test by brewing up a batch of coffee with tap water and another pot with bottled water. Heavily chlorinated water may not please your palate.

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4

Grind your beans to a coarse ground with a burr grinder.

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Coffee grounds spend just a short time between the toothed discs before falling to the bin below. (A blade grinder works differently: Grounds stay in contact with blades until grinding stops, which can create friction and heat — and damage to the beans.)

Clean the burr grinder bin regularly to remove stale coffee grounds that can ruin the taste of your next pot of coffee.

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5

Place ground coffee in the French Press pot and pour all the “off-boil” water on the grounds.

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Put the plunger on the top of your French Press pot, and set a timer for 4 minutes (a little longer if you like bolder-tasting coffee).

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Push the French Press plunger down to the bottom of the pot.

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Pour off or decant the coffee immediately after pressing down the plunger. You don’t want your coffee in contact with the grounds after brewing.

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Savor the flavor of the first cup — and beyond.

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Coffee is a perishable beverage. To have refills ready and waiting, pour your fresh brew in a vacuum-insulated carafe.

Fill the carafe with hot water before making your coffee, to have the storage container heated up and ready to go. Empty out the hot water and pour in the freshly brewed coffee. Close up the top tightly and prepare to enjoy great-tasting coffee made right at home.

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Stephen Buchwalter and Paivikki Buchwalter, First Prize Winners of the Knol for Dummies contest. This entry has been modified to meet Dummies.com style. See the original entry.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-brew-coffee-with-a-french-press.html

Quick-Fix Low-Glycemic Meals

Short on time? Serving low-glycemic meals doesn’t have to mean hours in the kitchen. Serve your family healthy, lower-calorie, low-glycemic meals, and everyone will be happy. Try the following quick-fixes:

• Black bean burgers, bulgur wheat pilaf, and cherry tomatoes

  
  



• Scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and low-glycemic bread

  
  



• Canned lentil or minestrone soup with a tossed salad

  
  



• Grilled cheese sandwich (use a whole-grain, low-glycemic bread) with celery sticks

  
  



• Grilled fish with a variety of grilled vegetables

  
  



• Cheese tortellini mixed with olive oil, garlic, and grated Parmesan paired with a tossed salad

  
  



• Chili (be sure to make — or purchase — the kind with beans)

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/quickfix-lowglycemic-meals.html

Shooting Better Digital Video

Once your digital camcorder is configured and set up the way you want it, it's time to start shooting some video. Yay! One of the most important things you'll want to work on as you shoot video is to keep the image as stable as possible. Your camcorder probably has an image stabilization feature built in, but image stabilization can do only so much. You'll be better off using a tripod for all static shots, and a monopod or sling for moving shots.

Pay special attention to the camera's perspective. The angle of the camera greatly affects the look and feel of the video you shoot. You may find that lowering the level of the camera greatly improves the image. Some high-end camcorders have handles on top that make shooting from a lower level easier. Virtually all digital camcorders have LCD panels that can be swiveled up so you can easily see what you're recording, even if you're holding the camera down low.

Be especially careful to avoid letting the camera roll to one side or the other. This skews the video image as shown in Figure 1, which is extremely disorienting to the viewer. Try to keep the camera level with the horizon at all times. The following sections give additional recommendations for shooting better video.

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Figure 1: Don't let the video image get skewed like this — it's very disorienting.

If you're shooting a person in a studio-like situation, complete with a backdrop and fancy lighting, provide a stool for your subject to sit on. A stool will help your subject remain both still and relaxed during a long shoot, and (unlike a chair) a stool will also help the subject maintain a more erect posture.

Panning effectively

Moving the camera across a scene is called panning. You'll often see home videos that are shot while the person holding the camcorder pans the camera back-and-forth and up-and-down, either to follow a moving subject or to show a lot of things that don't fit in a single shot. This technique (if you can call it that) is called firehosing — usually not a good idea. Practice these rules when panning:

• Pan only once per shot.

• Start panning slowly, gradually speed up, and slow down again before stopping.

• Slow down! Panning too quickly — say, over a landscape — is a common mistake.

• If you have a cheap tripod, you may find it difficult to pan smoothly. Try lubricating the tripod's swivel head with WD-40 or silicon spray lubricant. If that doesn't work, limit tripod use to stationary shots. Ideally you should use a higher-quality tripod with a fluid head for smooth panning.

• If you're shooting a moving subject, try moving the camera with the subject, rather than panning across a scene. Doing so reduces out-of-focus issues with the camera lens, and helps keep the subject in-frame.

Using (not abusing) the zoom lens

Most camcorders have a handy zoom feature. A zoom lens is basically a lens with an adjustable focal length. A longer lens — also called a telephoto lens — makes far-away subjects appear closer. A shorter lens — also called a wide angle lens — allows more of a scene to fit in the shot. Zoom lenses allow you to adjust between wide-angle and telephoto.

Because the zoom feature is easy to use and fun to play with, amateur videographers tend to zoom in and out a lot. For the best results, you should avoid zooming during a shot as much as possible. Overuse of the zoom lens not only disorients the viewer, it also creates focal and light problems whether you're focusing the camera manually or using autofocus. Some zoom lens tips include

• Avoid zooming whenever possible. Yes, you'll be tempted it to zoom in on something cool or interesting in a video shot, but you should exercise restraint whenever possible.

• If you must zoom while recording, zoom slowly. You may need to practice a bit to get a feel for your camera's zoom control.

• Consider repositioning the camera instead of using the zoom lens to compose the shot. Wide-angle lenses (remember, when you zoom out you make the camcorder's lens more of a wide-angle lens) have greater depth of field. This means more of the shot is in focus if you're zoomed out. If you shoot subjects by zooming in on them from across a room, they may move in and out of focus. But if you move the camera in and zoom the lens out, focus will be less of a problem.

Avoiding timecode breaks

Each frame of video is identified using a number called a timecode. When you edit video on your computer, timecode identifies the exact places where you make edits. On your camcorder, a timecode indicator tells you how much video has been recorded on the tape. This indicator usually shows up in the camcorder's viewfinder or the LCD panel. A typical timecode looks something like this:

00:07:18:07

This number stands for zero hours, seven minutes, eighteen seconds, and seven frames. If you have a 60-minute tape, timecode on that tape probably starts at 00:00:00:00 and ends at 00:59:59:29. In some cases, however, the timecode on a tape can become inconsistent. For example, suppose you record one minute of video, rewind the tape 20 seconds, and then start recording again. Depending on your camcorder, the timecode might count up to 00:00:40:00 and then start over at zero again. An inconsistency like this is called a timecode break. A timecode break is more likely to occur if you fast-forward a tape past a blank, unrecorded section and then start recording again.

When you capture video from a digital camcorder into your computer, the capture software reads the timecode from the tape in your camcorder. If the software encounters a timecode break, it will probably stop capture and be unable to capture any video past the break.

The best way to avoid timecode breaks is to make sure you don't shuttle the tape (fast-forward or rewind it) between recording segments. An alternative approach is to pre-timecode your tapes before shooting. If you do have to rewind the tape — say, someone wants to see a playback of what you just recorded — make sure you cue the tape back to the end of the recorded video before you start recording again. Many camcorders have an end-search feature that automatically shuttles the tape to the end of the current timecode. Check your camcorder's documentation to see whether it has such a feature.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/shooting-better-digital-video.html

How to Make Pomander Candles for Christmas

Pomander candles are old-fashioned fragrant balls of citrus and cloves that fill the room with the scent of Christmas. The embedded candles enhance your room with a festive holiday atmosphere via flickering light. To make these candles, you need to use tealights, which are half-dollar size candles about 1 inch thick. Make sure that your tealights come in small metal cups (most do).

To make 6 pomander candles for your Christmas party, gather these supplies:

• A very sharp paring knife with a short blade

  
  



• A few round toothpicks (optional)

  
  



• 6 thick-skinned oranges

  
  



• 1 cup whole cloves (or more or less, depending on your preference)

  
  



• 6 tealights in metal cups

  
  

After collecting your supplies, follow these steps to make your pomander candles:

1. Slice a thin piece of skin from the stem end of the orange to create a stable base. On the opposite end, use a sharp paring knife to cut out a hole that’s just large enough to fit the tealight into.

   
   

   The tealight should fit down in the orange with the top of the tealight even with the skin of the orange. Do not insert the tealight yet.

   
   



2. 2Insert cloves into the fruit in any pattern, even covering the whole fruit if you like.

   
   

   If the cloves are not going in easily, poke holes with a toothpick first and then insert the cloves.

   
   



3. 3Place one pomander on a small plate, or a bunch of them on a tray. Insert the tealights, light, and enjoy.

   
   

You can use any citrus fruit. Try small grapefruits, lemons and limes, or an assortment of citrus. Kumquats, while a bit more difficult to work with because of their tiny size, make adorable little pomanders. These would not be hollowed and filled with candles, but just left as is and used for their spicy scent. Pile the kumquat pomanders in a small bowl and place them in the living room or bathroom or tie a thin ribbon around them and hang them on your tree.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-make-pomander-candles-for-christmas.html

Choose What to Leave in and What to Leave Out of Dog Photographs

You don’t always have to include all of the scene or subject in your image. Sometimes you can create a much more interesting image by leaving things out. When photographing your dog, cropping creatively can really bring certain details to light.

For example, instead of photographing Lucky head on standing in the grass with her ball, try getting a shot of just her back end from the side so you can capture her wagging tail. Or maybe zoom in just to get a detail of her dirty paws, leaving the viewer to guess how she got them.

You can also leave an area around your subject that’s completely void of any elements and is only one color. When you do, you’re using negative space.

You can use this technique when you have distracting elements in your frame or you simply want to add extra emphasis to the subject. You can position your camera so that you have your subject in one of your thirds with negative space filling up the rest of the frame.

The opposite of using negative space is filling the frame. You use this technique to create an up-close and personal sense of “being there.” If you want your subject to really shine, consider eliminating the background elements altogether and zooming in close for a more intimate photo.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/choose-what-to-leave-in-and-what-to-leave-out-of-d.html

A Timeline of World History

The history of the world isn’t easily condensed, but the timeline here does a good job of hitting the high notes and most significant events of roughly 4,000 years from the beginnings of Hinduism to the freeing of Nelson Mandela.

After Columbus sailed and Constantinople fell, Europeans continued to search out trading routes and thinkers and doers around the globe made history in their various ways.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/a-timeline-of-world-history.html

Retarded Ejaculation: When a Man Can't Ejaculate

9 of 14 in Series:
The Essentials of Men’s Sexual Health

Believe it or not, there is such a thing as lasting too long during sex. Retarded ejaculation (or male orgasmic disorder) is a condition in which a man can’t make himself ejaculate. Whether in a man or woman, the inability to orgasm can make sexual intercourse frustrating or even undesirable. Finding the cause is the key to learning how to fix retarded ejaculation.

While rare, retarded ejaculation is a real problem. Sometimes a medical problem causes retarded ejaculation, in which case only a urologist can help. Sometimes the cause is psychological, and a sex therapist can treat the problem. A relationship problem can be one of the psychological causes, which may lead to a man unconsciously holding back his ejaculation. In that case, fixing the relationship is key to curing the problem.

Although being able to last a long time is something our society puts great value on, retarded ejaculation is a problem. Don’t cover it up by bragging about your power to “last all night long.”

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/retarded-ejaculation-when-a-man-cant-ejaculate.html

Tools for Chatting with Your Online Community

Live chats are extremely valuable for growing your online community and creating trust between you, the company you work for, and the people who make up your community. Keep in mind that these sessions require a bit of a commitment as you have to promote the event, invite the community, and moderate the chat. There are a number of tools available to facilitate chatting with your community members.

Many forums host regular chats with team leaders or prominent members of the community. Simply create a host folder for the live chat and use the forum’s announcement folder to alert the community to the day and time.

On the day of the chat, create a thread where community members can ask questions and you or your guest of honor can respond. The beautiful thing about forums is that the transcripts remain in the folder for members to view on demand.

Skype

A live Skype conversation is easy to follow, and you can even save the transcripts and post for community members to access later. What sets Skype apart from other chat methods is that members have to commit in advance so you can individually invite them to the chat.

If you have a regularly scheduled chat, most members can save the account so that they don’t have to receive invites every time. Choose a different topic for each chat so that they’re not a free for all and bring in special guests to make them more interesting.

If a community member has a question that needs an instant response, you can arrange a Skype chat via voice, video, or text. Most community managers don’t list their Skype names as they don’t want to be pinged throughout the day. Skype does come with Invisible and Do Not Disturb settings so you can make it clear that you’re not available, if you’re too busy.

Twitter

You may have noticed your friends and followers using hashtags (#) to follow particular topics on Twitter. Hashtags work especially well for live chats because they allow anyone to search for and isolate the tags in their Twitter applications.

For a popular example of a hashtag chat, check out #blogchat every Sunday at 9 p.m. Eastern time. Use Tweetchat.com or Tweetgrid.com as an easy way to participate in Twitter chats.

Facebook

Many Facebook communities host chats for their members or those who “like” their pages. In fact, participants can keep track of the chat from their own Facebook status pages. Because Facebook updates tend to fall off status pages after a while, it’s best to announce upcoming chats every day for a week in advance. At the time of the chat, start a post to receive questions and comments from the community and respond in kind.

Be mindful of posting too many posts on your community Facebook page. Members will unlike the page if they see to many status updates from a brand. For a Facebook chat, try and use the same post or thread for a Q&A so members statuses aren’t cluttered with posts from your brand.

Online groups

Both Yahoo! and Google allow you to create groups. Groups allow you to keep conversations going without having to worry about members’ schedules. They’re simple to use; community members can sign up just by clicking a link. For a moderated group, you have to approve each new member. But moderating a group is recommended over letting people in without approval, because unmoderated groups are spam magnets.

The downside of groups is that you receive an e-mail every time someone posts a question or response.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/tools-for-chatting-with-your-online-community.navId-323004.html

Great Tips for Mexican Cooking

If you love to cook (and eat) Mexican food, these terrific tips will help you make the most of preparing delicious, festive Mexican dishes and beverages:

• Garnish freely. That doesn't mean a sprig or two of wilted parsley strewn across a plate. In the Mexican kitchen, the garnishes — fresh diced onion, sliced radish, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, diced chiles — are integral to the dish. They add the crunch, the freshness, and the bright acidity that completes a dish.

  
  



• Recycle. Yesterday's salsa and chips are today's tortilla soup is tomorrow's chilaquiles. It's good for the planet, and it tastes good, too!

  
  



• Start good taste at home. Try making our homemade corn and flour tortillas and our salsas rather than purchasing the store-bought variety. Then you'll recognize the difference between a so-so tortilla and something great.

  
  



• Try unusual cuts of meat. Mexican cooking provides an excellent opportunity to explore inexpensive cuts of meat. Slowly cooked butts, shoulders, and shanks will reward you with silky tenderness and intense flavor at half the cost of prime cuts.

  
  



• Aspire to be an acid queen or king. Acid accents, particularly from lime juice, are necessary in Mexican cooking to balance the richness and spice, especially in posoles, ceviches, and tacos.

  
  



• Roast and toast freely. Roasted tomatoes, onions, and chiles add a unique layer of complexity to salsas and sauces that is characteristic of real Mexican cooking. Don't skip this step. The same advice applies to toasting pastas or grains.

  
  



• Make homemade beverages. Mexican cuisine offers an array of wonderfully vibrant beverages, alcoholic and not. Get in the spirit and abandon predictable soft drinks and wines for a refreshing change.

  
  



• Embrace chiles. Don't be intimidated by chiles. With a little know-how, you will find that they are easy to work with and extremely healthy and add a wallop of lowfat flavor that will grow on you if you give them a chance.

  
  



• First say yes. Before you automatically say no to a new food or taste experience, think again and take a bite. Remember that it took Europeans about 400 years to figure out what to do with a tomato. Just think of all that great tomato sauce they were missing.

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/great-tips-for-mexican-cooking.html

Things to Check If Emotional Freedom Technique Is Not Working

Sometimes, you may not get the results you hoped for or expected from the Emotional Freedom Technique of energy therapy. If an EFT session is not bringing the relief you’d hoped for, try the following:

• Check that you’re following sequence properly.

  
  



• Drink water.

  
  



• Consider whether something else is hiding away that needs to be addressed.

  
  



• Be patient.

  
  



• Be persistent.

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/things-to-check-if-emotional-freedom-technique-is-.html

Skew and Rotate an InDesign CS5 Shape

In an InDesign Creative Suite 5 publication, you can skew and rotate any shape. Skewing a shape is the same as changing its shear, or slant. Rotation pivots a shape around a reference point, such as the shape's center, or a point on its outline.

Skew (shear) a shape

You can change the shear (skew) of a shape by using the Transform panel. After skewing/shearing, the shape is slanted, so you create the appearance of some form of perspective for the skewed or sheared element. This transformation is useful if you want to create the illusion of depth on a page.

1. With a basic shape selected, choose Window→Object and Layout→Transform.

   
   

   The Transform panel appears.

   
   



2. Select a value from the Shear drop-down list in the lower right corner of the Transform panel.

   
   

   After you select a new value, the shape skews (or shears), depending on what value you select. Manually entering a numerical value into this field also skews the shape.

   
   

Rotate a shape

You can change the rotation of a shape by using the Transform panel. The process of rotating a shape is similar to skewing a shape.

1. With a basic shape selected, choose Window→Object and Layout→Transform.

   
   

   The Transform panel opens.

   
   



2. Select a value from the Rotation drop-down list.

   
   

   After you select a new value, the shape rotates automatically, based on the rotation angle you specified. You can also manually enter a value into the text field.

   
   

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/skew-and-rotate-an-indesign-cs5-shape.html

One-Person or SOHO Business: Putting a Price on What You Do

Knowing the value of the product or service you offer as a sole proprietor or self-employed business owner (that is, as a SOHO - small office/home office) is important. As large companies shed jobs during the latest downturn, many people discovered that working for themselves was just about the only option available, but figuring out how and what to charge for their services as an individual can leave even the most talented people scratching their heads.

Most self-employed service providers charge in one of the following ways:

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  By the hour: You establish an hourly rate, keep track of your time, and bill clients for hours spent on their behalf. This is the standard pricing approach for service businesses handling small-project jobs.

  
  


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  By the project: You and your client agree in advance on a fixed price for a defined amount of work. This is the standard pricing approach for service businesses handling large-project jobs.

  
  


• 
  

  A combined approach: A building contractor, for example, may bid on a set of plans and establish a fee for the project. But he may also stipulate that additional client-requested work over and above that covered by the estimate is to be paid at an established hourly rate.

  
  

Other businesses follow other billing approaches. For example, authors often receive a royalty, or a percentage of the cover price, for each book sold. A photographer might sell rights to photos based on the way the purchaser will use them. And some professionals are paid retainers, or upfront payments, in return for their availability to work on an as-needed basis.

As an example, a computer network expert might charge clients a monthly retainer. In return, he agrees to keep their computer systems updated and up and running. If a client needs him, he’s available 24/7. If not, he enjoys his free time. The monthly fees provide him a steady month-by-month income, and his clients couldn’t be happier because they view the monthly fee as a computer insurance policy that’s always in effect.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/oneperson-or-soho-business-putting-a-price-on-wha0.html

How to Fix a Squeaky Floor That’s Carpeted

Gather your materials: Hammer, sticky notes or masking tape, drill, carpet repair kit.

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A carpet repair kit contains an alignment and depth control device and snap off screws, which break off below the carpet.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-fix-a-squeaky-floor-thats-carpeted.pageCd-storyboard,pageNum-1.html

Format of a Digital Photo

Format is the way your camera records and stores the data that make up a digital photo. Camera Raw or a high-quality JPEG format, which usually comes standard on digital cameras, is your best bet for a clear image. A low-quality JPEG can result in a blocky, defected image like this one:

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/format-of-a-digital-photo.html

Casino Gambling Games with Decent Odds

For gamblers, four casino games offer decent odds. That is, if you made a hundred $1 bets at these recommended casino games, your average loss would only be about a buck. These odds aren’t good enough to retire on, but they stretch your bankroll as far as possible, even if you’re on a limited budget.

Neither life nor gambling offers any guarantees, and your actual daily results may be far different than your theoretical loss, so plan accordingly.

Jacks or Better Video Poker (the 9/6 Version)

The 9/6 version of Jacks or Better is considered full pay because you get a payout of 9 for 1 for a full house and 6 for 1 for a flush. The 9/6 version is the only one whose payout rate makes it worthwhile to play. Tips for playing this game well include:

• Make sure you’re playing a full-pay 9/6 version by looking at the Full House/Flush payouts for one coin.

  
  



• Because of the increased payouts for a royal flush, always play the maximum coins to get the best odds — even if that means finding nickel or quarter machines to stay within your bankroll.

  
  



• Never keep a kicker (a high card along with a pair).

  
  



• Throw away a small pair (tens or lower) if you have four cards to a flush or three cards to a royal flush.

  
  

Blackjack

The way to win at Blackjack is to get better cards than the dealer. The aim is to have your cards add up to a maximum of 21.

• Play the table with the least number of decks.

  
  



• Stay away from gimmick games like 6-5 blackjack, Spanish 21, or Super Fun blackjack.

  
  



• Remember the following important tips

  
  

  Double down on 10 or 11 when dealer shows 2 to 9. (To double down means you double your bet and are allowed just one more card.)

  
  

  Stand on 13 to 16 when dealer shows 2 to 6.

  
  



• Hit on 12 to 16 when dealer shows 7 or higher.

  
  



• Never take insurance.

  
  

Craps

Rolling two dice is the essence of craps and what number those dice add up to determine whether bettors on the Pass line win or bettors on the Don’t Pass line do. A new player’s first roll is her come-out roll, and other players wager on what the shooter will roll. The smartest strategy is to stick to the following bets in craps:

• Pass line bet with odds bet

  
  



• Come bet with odds

  
  



• Don’t pass bet with odds

  
  



• Don’t come bet with odds

  
  

Baccarat

You may be intimidated by baccarat with its glitz, glamour, and European aura, but behind the stiff exterior lies a decent game for the average bettor because there are only three possible results of each hand and there’s no skill involved — it’s strictly the fall of the cards. A couple tips for doing well:

• Always bet on the banker (house edge is 1.06 percent, meaning if you made a hundred bets of $1, your average loss would be about a buck).

  
  



• You can also bet on the player’s hand. (The house edge is only slightly worse than the banker’s hand at 1.24 percent.)

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/casino-gambling-games-with-decent-odds.html

Working with Clients as a Flash Web Designer

Unless you're independently wealthy, you create Web sites for friends, or you play with Flash as a hobby, you need to generate a profit from your work. If you're going to survive working with clients and still keep your sanity, you need to do a few things.

Don't hesitate to seek the advice of a competent attorney who can advise you on contract details.

Create a client survey

On your Web site, you likely have information about yourself, information about the services you offer, and examples of your work. Web designers can and often do get clients from distant locales. Sometimes the only way you can establish a preliminary contact and know what the client needs is to create and post a customer survey on your Web site.

Customer surveys can be kind of lengthy, so think again about using a form created in Flash. Instead, rely on its butt-ugly — that's a technical term — HTML counterpart to gather information. In your questionnaire, you need to get the following information:

• The potential client's contact information.

• Whether or not the client has procured a domain name.

• Whether or not the client will provide edited text, images, and so on for the Web site.

• The client's expectations and why he wants a Web site. This should be a definite reason, such as promoting a product or expanding the customer base. If the client says he just wants a Web site, this should raise a red flag — the client has no earthly idea of what his expectations are.

The information from your client survey will help you establish a line of communication and eventually will be used to create your proposal and price quote.

Create a static mock-up

After your initial meeting with the client, you should have a pretty good idea of what he wants for the final Web site. You can easily create a mock-up of the banner and the navigation menu in less than an hour by using the powerful tools built into Macromedia Fireworks. After you have these areas laid out, you can create the area of the page where the initial content appears. Typically, this will be a combination of text and images. If you don't have an extensive portfolio or don't come highly recommended, some clients will want to see something before they sign on the dotted line.

Get the client to sign off on the design

After the client decides on the winning mock-up, get the client to sign the mock-up. In fact, you might consider having a stamp made that says Approved By:on the first line and Date: on the second line. Stamp each of the mock-ups, and when the client swoons, whip out your pen — or felt-tipped marker if you print your mock-ups on glossy paper — and ask the client to sign. After the client signs off on the design, file it in the client's folder in case there are any questions later.

Cover the bases

When you're done with the Web site, the contract can serve as your checklist. Go through every paragraph and clause of the contract. For example, if you say you're going to submit the site to six search engines, make sure you have done so.

Document that you've done everything listed in the contract. One problem that arises is documenting sundry details like submitting the site to search engines. Your client won't know the results of search engine submissions for several weeks. Take a screenshot of the site being submitted to each search engine and keep this with the client's file. If any questions arise after you've completed the site, you have all the documentation needed to prove you've done what you said you would.

Get it in writing

Never do business on a handshake; it will always come back to haunt you. Make sure your client signs and dates your original contract. If minor changes are to be made, cross out the original and then write in the revision. Both you and the client need to initial the revision. If the client requests significant changes in the contract, rewrite it — or tell the client to take a hike. Then make sure all additional client requests — with the exception of really small requests — are handled with a change order.

Get an initial payment

When you submit the contract to the client, make sure you add a payment clause. Always ask for an initial payment of at least 40 percent of the total contract price. Because this is a Flash design and you won't have anything to show the client until your initial prototype is published, 40 percent of the total price is a fair initial payment. Your contract should also include an additional 40 percent payment when the site has been published and uploaded. The final 20 percent is paid when the client signs off on the site.

Get feedback in writing

When you request feedback from a client, don't rely on a hasty telephone call where he tells you, "Yeah, it's great. Rock on." Unless you've recorded the conversation — which may or may not be legal in the state where you live — this won't hold up in court if the client pitches a hissy fit when you're done with the site. Get the client's feedback in writing. If you rely on e-mail for client feedback, after you receive the client's feedback, send an additional e-mail to the client acknowledging and thanking him for the feedback.

Bill for extras

Your contract states everything that you and the client have agreed to. Your contract should also have clauses for extra work. When you perform extra work, generate an invoice immediately and send it to the client with the invoice for the applicable incremental payment. For example, if you perform the work at the final stages of the project, send the invoices for the extra work with the request for final payment.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/working-with-clients-as-a-flash-web-designer.navId-323004.html

Traveling with Your Puppy by Plane or Car

Everybody likes a vacation. The most depressing part, however, is parting from your beloved puppy. Why not take your puppy along when you travel? Having your pet with you can be great fun, but you’ll also come across some risks.

Packing a bag for your puppy's needs

A lot of planning goes into a trip, and overlooking your puppy’s needs can be easy. Familiar objects are as soothing to your puppy as a fuzzy, warm security blanket is to a child. Here’s a checklist of your puppy’s needs:

• A familiar mat or other bedding

  
  



• Regular food that’s separated for each feeding, plus an extra meal or two just in case

  
  



• A selection of familiar bones and toys

  
  



• Food dishes

  
  



• Water, if you’re visiting an environment where bottled water is recommended for human consumption

  
  



• Housetraining bell, if your puppy uses one

  
  

Taking your puppy on a plane

Sometimes air travel is unavoidable, so follow these tips to make flying easier on everyone when your puppy accompanies you:

• Do your best to plan direct flights in the evening or early morning when ground temperatures are cooler (heat-induced suffocation is the biggest risk in airline travel). If you can’t fly direct, book a flight with a layover that’s long enough for you to take your puppy out for a stretch, drink, potty break, and hug.

  
  



• Airlines require health certificates and proof of vaccination, so you need to get them from your veterinarian and forward a copy to the airline immediately. Carry one with you the day of the flight, too, in case any questions arise about your dog’s clearance to travel.

  
  



• On the top of the traveling crate, in 1/2-inch letters, write the flight’s destination, including your name and the name, address, and phone number of the person or place you’re visiting.

  
  



• Don’t feed your puppy within six hours of the trip.

  
  



• Prep the crate for takeoff with light bedding and paper (taped down) in one end to absorb mistakes. Affix kennel bowls inside the crate. Freeze water in one so your puppy can have a drink while in flight.

  
  

  If your puppy is a champion chewer, you may need to nix the bedding. If you suspect that your puppy will be distressed, ask your veterinarian for a sedative.

  
  

Traveling by car with your puppy

Most puppies and dogs love road trips. Cars can be a dangerous place for dogs, however, so you must take certain precautions:

• Don’t leave your puppy in the car on a warm day. Even with the windows down, your car will bake like an oven.

  
  



• Keep an extra set of keys on hand. If you must leave your puppy, keep the engine running with the air conditioning on full-blast and lock the doors. Keep the second set of keys with you to get back into the car.

  
  



• Got a pick-up truck? Let your puppy ride in the cab. On a leash or off, the bed of a truck is no place for a dog.

  
  



• Keep the windows cracked but not wide open. Some people think that letting a dog hang her head out the window is cool, but it’s actually very dangerous. Dogs can get hurled from the car in an accident or have debris fly into their eyes, causing permanent damage.

  
  



• Secure your puppy with a seat belt. Give your puppy her own area in the backseat. Secure a doggie-style attachment to the seat belt and decorate her area with a mat and toys to keep her comfortable and occupied during the drive.

  
  

Are you planning a long journey? Following are some guidelines to ensure that both you and your puppy get through the trip with minimal hassle:

• Keep your pup’s diet and feeding times consistent. A change can upset her system, and that’s one discomfort that you can easily avoid.

  
  



• Avoid traveling in extreme heat unless you have a good air-conditioning system. If you’re in extreme heat, plan to travel at night or early in the morning.

  
  



• Keep your puppy on a leash at every pit stop. When traveling, a puppy’s homing device shuts down. If she wanders off or gets momentarily distracted, she may have trouble finding her way back to you.

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/traveling-with-your-puppy-by-plane-or-car.html

Understanding the Difference between a Correction and a Bear Market

In the summer of 2006, precious metals, energy, and other commodities experienced a correction, or a temporary pull-back in their prices. Gee, why say correction? It sure as heck doesn't feel correct (it feels pretty incorrect, actually). A correction is a temporary, normal, and healthy part of a bull market. Sure, it might make you flinch when you see your investment go down 10 percent or 20 percent. It's not unusual to see precious metals corrections go down an unsettling 30 percent. What are you going to do?

First, understand the difference between a correction and a bear market. It's like the difference between fainting and dropping dead. In a healthy, long-term bull market, frequent corrections are part of the process. Prices drop temporarily for various reasons, such as profit taking and similar events that are not evidence of a fundamental change in the prospects of that asset or industry.

Take gold for example. If you saw a chart spanning 2000–2007, you'd see a beautiful sight: a gorgeous zig zag sloping upward through that seven-and-a-half-year time frame. It went from under $300 (technically, the bottom was in 2001 at $252), and it went over $670 in early August 2007. But during that time it had some scary, financially bruising periods. That chart would show you no less than seven corrections of 10 percent to 30 percent. Ouch! However, that's part of the world of investing. Bull markets and corrections go together like Jekyll and Hyde (sort of).

How do you know the difference between a correction and a bear market? In a word: fundamentals. What are the fundamentals? This is a general reference to things that affect the price of an investment, such as supply and demand, economic trends, and other factors. Over the span of this decade, investment and industrial demand for gold rose significantly while supply (mined from the earth) did not. As China and India became economic powerhouses, their appetite for gold also grew. The bottom line is that gold's market looks strong for years to come.

A good example of a bear market (when an asset or industry has a very long period of dropping prices) is what happened to Japan's real estate market during the 1990s. Real estate values hit an all-time high in early 1991. However, the very expensive prices diminished demand. More houses put on the market increased supply. What followed was 12 consecutive years of falling prices. In late 1991, Japan's housing market didn't faint; it dropped dead.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/understanding-the-difference-between-a-correction-.html

Translate Access Lingo into SharePoint Online Terms

Before embarking on an integration project between SharePoint Online and Access, it’s best to understand some geek terminologies to ensure success and, of course, to impress your co-workers.

In Access, you have fields and records. In SharePoint, fields translate as columns, and records are rows.

If you are using the desktop application of Access 2010, take note that an Access database contains forms, reports, queries, macros, and tables. These are called objects. Each of these objects can either be a Web Object or a Client Object.

As the name implies, Web Objects is web compatible and, therefore, what you see in your desktop application translates well when you view it from a web browser. Client Objects can only be used in the client or desktop application.

An object can only be either a web object or a client object. You can’t convert one into the other. You can, however, save a web object as a new client object.

An Access database can only contain either web tables or client tables — not both. It can, however, contain both web and client forms, queries, and reports.

Knowing this is important because if you plan to publish a database to your SharePoint site, you need to create a web database (as opposed to a client database) to ensure data integrity and compatibility.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/translate-access-lingo-into-sharepoint-online-term.html

Working with the Task Pane in Office 2003

Sometimes when you choose a command in an Office 2003 application, such as the New command in the File menu, Microsoft Office 2003 needs more information from you before it can do anything else. In the case of the New command, Office 2003 has no idea whether you want to create a new blank file or a new file based on a template.

So when Office 2003 needs to display additional options for you to choose from, Office 2003 shows those options as links in a window, called the task pane, which appears to the right side of the screen, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: The task pane displays different options while still letting you see the contents of your file.

Every Office 2003 program includes several different types of task panes. Each type provides options for performing one particular task, such as creating a new slide (in PowerPoint), creating a mail merge document (in Word), or displaying help for that particular program (in all Office 2003 programs).

Using the task pane

When you choose a command, the task pane may appear to show you all the options available. To choose an option, just click a link, which appears highlighted in blue.

You can also identify links in the task pane by moving the mouse pointer over text. If the text appears underlined and the mouse pointer turns into a pointing hand icon, that means the mouse pointer is over a link.

After you choose an option from the task pane, Office 2003 removes the task pane from view so you can get back to work again.

Hiding and displaying the task pane

In case you want to display the task pane without waiting to choose a command that will open the task pane for you, do one of the following:

• Click View --> Task pane

• Press Ctrl+F1

If you want to hide the task pane from view, just click the Close box of the task pane.

Navigating through the task pane

The task pane can display different types of information at various times, which means there's a good chance that the task pane won't display the information you want to see at any given moment. Fortunately, you can change the type of information that appears in the task pane by using either the task pane list box or the Back, Forward, or Home buttons (see Figure 2).

Figure 2: The task pane gives you additional options to choose.

The Home button displays the home page of the task pane, which is where you can create a new file or open an existing one. If you click a link in the task pane, the task pane displays different information.

Clicking the Back button displays the previous information that appeared in the task pane. If you click the Back button and suddenly decide you want to return to that task pane, just click the Forward button.

If you click on the Task Pane list box, you can view all the other types of information that the task pane can display, such as the Help task pane or the Clipboard task pane, as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3: The Task Pane list box lets you quickly see all the types of information the task pane can display.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/working-with-the-task-pane-in-office-2003.html

Samples of Professional Branding Statements

Professional branding statements briefly explain who you are, what you do, and what you're best known for in the workplace. Use your professional branding statement in cover letters and other job search messages, network connections, and spoken in job interviews.

The professional branding statements that follow were created by free-agent writers whose names appear beneath their work.

• Whiz of a Sales Executive: I was born knowing about selling the sizzle, not the steak. An executive risk taker, I drive business to the next level. Application of enthusiastic confidence generates new customers and competitively positions products. I consistently overcome obstacles and generate product loyalty while increasing company’s profits and global market recognition.

  
  

  Kathleen Marshall, NRWA — Medford, N.J.

  
  



• Turnaround Ace: I rescue troubled companies. I have a documented track record of business development, operational planning, and leadership. My ability to find solutions that lead to success, foster team cohesion, pursue excellence, and work with a high degree of integrity has become my brand. In one case, I led a company through unparalleled growth and success, increasing revenue from $30 million to $60 million. In another, managed significant software changeover/upgrade for more accurate and timely processing of accounting functions, inventory reports, and financial statements.

  
  

  Sheri K. Czar, CPRW — Lake Oswego, Ore.

  
  



• Helpful Career Coach: I leverage my avid love of learning and mastery of online technology to facilitate career management for trend-setting professionals who strive to be dynamic and high achieving in their business.

  
  

  Kristen A. Jacoway, CRC, CPRW, CCC, CPBS — Seneca, S.C.

  
  



• Career Management Natural: Before I moved into the trenches of actually experiencing the workplace or studying its dynamics, I successfully — but informally — advised legions of friends on their career choices. Now, after gaining HR generalist employment in the allied health field and completing the HR certificate program at the University of Lowell, I realize that the ability to guide individuals in career management issues comes naturally to me.

  
  

  Gail Frank, NCRW, CPRW, JCTC, CEIP — Tampa, Fla.

  
  



• Teacher Who Uses Appealing Learning Technique: As a dedicated educator, I stimulate curiosity and make learning approachable and rewarding for all students. I implement a unique teaching technique that successfully addresses individualized learning variables by incorporating sight, written, and hearing applications in all material presentations. I get good outcomes: Improved test results by 50% and decreased student drop-out rates by 25%.

  
  

  Kathleen Marshall, NRWA — Medford, N.J.

  
  



• Change Agent in Human Affairs: As a catalyst for positive change, I have a history of engaging board and staff members to generate new ideas and increase overall performance. I am adept at establishing policies, procedures, and technologies to enhance efficiency, financial health, and service to organize constituents. I enjoy building and strengthening strategic alliances. My passion is to guide nonprofits, specifically those focused on youth empowerment, to achieve new heights.

  
  

  Tamara Dowling, CPRW, MCRS — Valencia, Calif.

  
  



• Super Science Marketing Specialist: Recognized for 20+ years of success in linking science-based achievements with decisive market leadership to build high-performance organizations with significant financial rewards. Led strategic and operational breakthroughs in proactive health informatics and communications technologies, evidence-based prevention and care management products, and cost-effective healthcare delivery systems. Pioneer in wellness and prevention programs, disease management and population health.

  
  

  Wendy Enelow, CCM, MRW, JCTC, CPRW — Coleman Falls, Va.

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/samples-of-professional-branding-statements.html

Choose Print or Onscreen Resolution for Photoshop Elements 10 Images

The importance of resolution in your Elements work is paramount to printing files. 72-ppi images can be forgiving, and you can get many of your large files scrunched down to 72 ppi for websites and slide shows. With output to printing devices, it’s another matter. There are many different printing output devices, and their resolution requirements vary.

For your own desktop printer, plan to print a variety of test images at different resolutions and on different papers. You can quickly determine the best file attributes by running tests. When you send files to service centers, ask the technicians what file attributes work best with their equipment.

Resolutions and Printing

Output Device	Optimum	Acceptable Resolution
Desktop laser printers	300 ppi	200 ppi
Desktop color inkjet printers	300 ppi	180 ppi
Large-format inkjet printers	150 ppi	120 ppi
Professional photo lab printers	300 ppi	200 ppi
Desktop laser printers (black and white)	170 ppi	100 ppi
Magazine quality — offset press	300 ppi	225 ppi
Screen images (web, slide shows, video)	72 ppi	72 ppi
Tablet devices and smart phones	150+ ppi	150 ppi

For a starting point, look over the recommended resolutions for various output devices listed here.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/choose-print-or-onscreen-resolution-for-photoshop-.html

How to Gather Feedback for Your Job Search

Remaining objective about your personality and career can be a difficult task. This problem doesn’t relate only to job seekers; even long employed professionals struggle with really knowing what they’re good at and what they need to improve on. So a tool was developed called 360-degree feedback, or multi-source feedback, where the subject receives honest input from his peers and managers.

Today, almost one-third of all U.S.-based companies rely on some kind of 360-degree feedback system to improve employee performance. As a job seeker, you want to take advantage of this type of feedback in order to better understand your strengths and guide your career search.

If you just go up to someone and say, “Hey, tell me what I’m bad at,” you’re not likely to get an honest answer. That’s why you have to either put some time into crafting your questions or use a tool that asks the questions for you.

If you plan to conduct your own 360-degree feedback, be sure you know exactly what you want to get out of your colleagues’ feedback before you send out e-mails or develop survey questions. If you need this feedback to double-check your values, find out what your passions are or see whether the next job is really going to be a fit and then be sure to ask questions that get you the information you need.

For example, if you’ve done blue ocean analysis and a values-elicitation exercise and the results show that you’re enthusiastic and even optimistic, then you may want to make sure people really perceive you this way. So your questions may be something like this: “On a scale from one to ten, how enthusiastic would you say I am?”

You also need to pay special attention to the sensitivities of your friends and co-workers. They may not have the time to write feedback for you. Or they may be afraid of offending you. So before you blast an e-mail out to everyone you know, asking them what they think about you, follow some of these tips:

• Frame your questions in the future tense. Asking “What can I do to be better at . . . ?” moves the focus from feelings to future processes. People find it easier to respond honestly when they don’t have to worry about offending you.

  
  



• To respect people’s time, offer them a chance to respond with numerical values. “On a scale from one to ten, with ten being the highest, would you say I’m passionate about serving clients?”

  
  



• Make it possible for people to provide anonymous feedback. The more anonymous the feedback format, the more accurate the answers. You may consider using Google Docs to create a survey form or using SurveyMonkey, which is a free online survey tool.

  
  



• Keep your opinion on the feedback to yourself. If you’re receiving feedback from someone in person, the only two words you should say when they’re done are thank you.

  
  

Conducting your own 360-degree feedback is great for keeping complete control over the types of questions you want to ask and is also much more personal than the form e-mails some tools send out.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-gather-feedback-for-your-job-search.html

Choosing Foods for Weight-Loss on a Low-Glycemic Diet

7 of 9 in Series:
The Essentials of Losing Weight on a Low-Glycemic Diet

While on a low-glycemic diet, choose the right foods to get the most nutritional bang for each bite. The point of going on a low-glycemic diet is to keep your body working at peak performance to ensure an increased metabolism, improved health, and success with long-term weight loss — therefore, you need to make the foods you eat work for you.

Choosing lots of fruits and vegetables

Two food groups are generally safe to eat in greater amounts when you want to lose weight: vegetables and fruits. These foods (particularly vegetables) contain lower calorie levels and lower glycemic loads than most other foods. In fact, most vegetables aren’t even measured for their glycemic index/load because the amount of carbohydrates in them is so low (approximately 5 grams on average). As for the calorie factor, a whole cup of raw vegetables or a half cup of cooked vegetables is, on average, a mere 25 calories. That’s a lot of food for such a small calorie amount! On the fruit side of things, most fruits tend to have a low glycemic load, and one small piece averages out to 60 calories. Sure, that’s not as low as the veggies, but it’s still lower than many other food groups.

When you want to lose weight, you can choose to either have tiny portion sizes of high-glycemic foods or pump up the volume with fruits and vegetables and still maintain a lower calorie level.

As you can see, for the same volume of food, you can consume far fewer calories by eating more fruits and vegetables. The beauty is that most of the foods in these two food groups end up on the low-glycemic food list! (See for yourself in Appendix A.)

The following examples illustrate how you can cut the calorie level of your dinner and dessert with some simple, low-glycemic food swaps:

• Dinner: Grilled garlic chicken served over 1 1/2 cups of pasta = 345 calories;
  Grilled garlic chicken served over 1/2 cup of pasta with 1 cup of broccoli, red pepper, and snow peas = 235 calories. You save 110 calories,

  
  



• Dessert: 1 cup of ice cream with chocolate sauce = 440 calories; 1/2 cup of ice cream with 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries = 230 calories. You save 210 calories.

  
  

By incorporating more low-glycemic fruits and veggies, you get the same volume of food on your plate but with fewer calories, a lower glycemic load, more fiber, and more nutrients. Not bad for a simple switch!

You can also use vegetables and fruits to increase your overall volume of food for the calorie level. For example, you can have a large salad with 3 cups of mixed greens plus 1 cup of assorted veggies (including tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers) with grilled chicken and light vinaigrette dressing for around 250 calories. Compare this meal to the grilled chicken over 1 1/2 cups of pasta for 345 calories. You get around 4 1/2 cups of food for the salad meal compared to around 2 cups of food for the pasta and chicken dish. Eating more vegetables and fruits at a meal means you can have more food for fewer calories. That’s a great plan in anyone’s book!

Including healthy fats and protein

Of course, you can’t pursue weight loss and health without taking a look at all the foods you consume, including your protein and fat sources. These are two of the nutrients that make up the Big Three of calorie sources (carbohydrates being #3). Not only that but they also help you feel full and give you long-term energy.

Choosing lean-protein foods is essential for weight loss and general health. Some examples of lean-protein sources are skinless chicken breasts, lean cuts of beef and pork, egg whites, fish and shellfish, and soy foods. You also need to eat fat. Believe it or not, fat is healthy when it’s the right kind and when you consume it in moderate amounts. Look for unsaturated fat sources, specifically oils, seeds, nuts, nut butters, olives, and avocados. Do your best to avoid saturated and trans fats such as butter, cream, lard, and hydrogenated oils.

Consuming a protein source and a fat source at each meal is a great way to slow down your body’s digestion and conversion of carbohydrates into sugar to provide long-term fullness and nutritional health . . . both of which are keys to long-term weight loss!

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/choosing-the-right-foods-to-help-you-lose-weight-o.html

Making Machine Stitches Work for You

Chances are that your sewing machine has a few tricks up its sleeve — stitches that you almost never think to use. Whether you're getting to know your machine for the first time or you're starting to take your trusty machine for granted, it's time to take a closer look at everything that sewing gizmo can do.

The basic machine stitches

Figure 1 shows the very basic machine stitches. Of course, your machine may offer more, or fewer, of these stitches. Compare them with what's available on your sewing machine. You may find that you have more options than you realized!

• Straight: You use the straight stitchfor basting, seaming, and topstitching.

• Zigzag: The machine adds width to the straight stitch to make the zigzag stitch. You use the zigzag stitch for stitching around appliqués, making buttonholes, sewing on buttons, and embroidering. The zigzag stitch is as practical as it is fun.

• Three-step zigzag: When used on the widest width, the ordinary zigzag stitch pulls the fabric into a tunnel and the fabric rolls under the stitch — not very desirable. To eliminate this problem, the sewing gods handed down the three-step zigzag stitch. The needle takes three stitches to one side and then three stitches to the other side, keeping the fabric flat and tunnel-free. Use the three-step zigzag for finishing raw edges, sewing on elastic, mending tears, and making decorative effects.

• Blind hem and stretch blind hem: The blind hem stitch is designed to hem woven fabrics so that the stitches are almost invisible when looked at from the right side of the garment. The stretch blind hem stitch has an extra zigzag or two that stretches to invisibly hem knit fabrics. Both stitches have decorative applications, too.

• Overlock: Many of the overlock-type stitches on today's sewing machines are designed to stitch and finish seams in one step, simulating the serger stitches that you see on ready-to-wear garments. Some of these stitches work well on woven fabrics; some work better on knits.

• Decorative: Decorative stitches fall into two basic categories: closed, satin-type stitches (such as the ball and diamond) and open, tracery-type stitches (such as the daisy and honeycomb). Many newer machines can be programmed to combine these stitches with other stitches, elongate the designs for a bolder decorative effect, and even stitch someone's name.

The newest high-end sewing machines can also create intricate embroidery designs (like those you see on ready-to-wear garments) by using embroidery cards. Embroidery cards are small computer discs that can store several large, intricate motifs. Some machines also offer scanners, which allow you to add additional patterns to the machine's stitch library.

>

>

Figure 1: Basic machine stitches.

Before taking your machine through its paces, you need to know how to select a stitch, set the stitch length, and set the stitch width.

Selecting a stitch type

If your sewing machine does more than straight stitch and zigzag, the machine must give you some way to select the stitch you want to use.

Older machines have dials, levers, buttons, or drop-in cams as stitch selectors.Newer, computerized models have keys or touch pads that not only select the stitch but also can automatically set the stitch length and width. You must consult the Operating Manual that comes with your sewing machine to get the specifics on how to select a stitch type.

Selecting the length of the stitch

The length of the stitch determines the stitch's durability. Short stitches (1 to 3 mm, 13 to 60 spi) are very strong and are meant to be permanent. Longer stitches are usually temporary or are used as a decorative topstitch.

Stitch length isdetermined by the distance the feed dogs move the fabric under the needle. When the feed dogs move with shorter strokes, stitches are short. When they move with longer strokes, stitches are longer.

Feed dogs, sometimes referred to as "feed teeth," are teeth or pads that move the fabric through the machine. The fabric is sandwiched between the presser foot and the feed dogs, and as the needle stitches up and down, the feed dogs grab the fabric and move it under the foot. Feed dogs are not built-in alarms that remind you to stop sewing long enough to feed your pets and family. But, please, don't get so wrapped up in providing clothing that you forget about food and shelter!

Stitch length is measured two different ways — in millimeters (mm) and in stitches per inch (spi). The setting used depends on the brand and model of your machine. Check out Table 1 if you want to compare stitch length in millimeters to stitch length in inches.

Table 1 Converting Stitch Lengths

Stitch Length in Millimeters	Stitch Length in Stitches per Inch
0.5	60 (fine setting)
1	24
2	13
3	9
4	6
5	5
6	4

Use the following as a general rule for stitch lengths:

• The average stitch length for mid-weight fabrics is 2.5 to 3 mm/10 to 12 spi.

• The average stitch length for fine fabrics is 2 mm/13 to 20 spi.

• For heavier fabrics, basting, or topstitching, use 4 to 5 mm/5 to 6 spi.

Setting the stitch width

The stitch-width control sets the distance the needle moves from side to side while creating a stitch. You don't need to worry about the stitch width when sewing straight stitches — just set it to 0 (zero).

All machines measure the stitch width in millimeters (mm). Some makes and models have a maximum stitch width of 4 to 6 mm. Others create stitches as wide as 9 mm.

Is wider better? When it comes to decorative stitches, it usually is. A 5- to 6-mm width is sufficient for most stitches where you're overcasting the raw edge, blind hemming, or making buttonholes.

Stitching-in-the-ditch

You use this simple technique to tack down facings and to tack up a quick cuff or hem. All you do is follow these steps:

1. Place the crack of the seam right side up and perpendicular to the presser foot so that the needle is poised over the seamline.

2. Using a straight stitch, sew so that the stitches bury themselves in the crack of the seam.

Instead of backstitching, pull threads to the wrong side of the project and tie them off.

Topstitching

Topstitching is an extra line of stitching sewn on the right side of the fabric that parallels a seamline or is used to sew a hem. Topstitching is usually visible on a project, so it needs to look good.

Your pattern instructions tell you exactly where on the project to topstitch. To topstitch, simply place the project under the needle, right side up, and stitch at the specified location. Because topstitching is usually an important part of the overall garment design, you usually want to tie off the threads rather than backstitch.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/making-machine-stitches-work-for-you.html

Prostate Cancer For Dummies

Screening and testing for prostate cancer are important for early detection and treatment. You can talk with your doctor about any concerns you may have, like prostate cancer treatment and side effects, finding a good specialist, and support from your partner, family and friends.

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Prostate Cancer: Essential Screening and Testing for Men

Prostate cancer is often curable, if the disease is diagnosed and treated early (before the cancer spreads). The following diagnostic tests should be done with your annual physical exam starting at age 50, or earlier if you have a history of prostate cancer in your family.

• Digital rectal examination (or DRE): The doctor inserts his lubricated finger into your rectum to feel for lumps on the prostate, which is normally smooth. Nobody likes this test, but it can be a life saver.

  
  



• Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test: This blood test shows if you have elevated levels of PSA, which may indicate cancer is present.

  
  

If your digital rectal exam, PSA, or other indicators (such as urinary symptoms) point to the possibility of prostate cancer, you’ll see a urologist, who will order some or all of the following tests. Use this list to keep straight the name and purpose of each test:

• A biopsy: The doctor will remove tissue samples from your prostate to be checked for cancer. You can’t know if you have cancer until a biopsy is done.

  
  



• An ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to check for the presence of tumors. The doctor may use an external ultrasound in addition to the internal ultrasound (transrectal probe) used as part of the biopsy.

  
  



• A bone scan: Some doctors also perform a bone scan in addition to a biopsy, to check whether cancer may have spread to the bones.

  
  

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Finding a Cancer Specialist and Asking Questions about Prostate Cancer

If your primary care doctor says you may have prostate cancer, he will want you to see a specialist, usually a urologist, to prescribe treatment and to answer your questions. When looking for a qualified specialist in your area, use these helpful tips:

• Ask your doctor for a referral.

  
  



• Ask your dentist, your chiropractor, and others in the general health care field for recommendations of doctors.

  
  



• Check out information about physicians on the Internet.

  
  



• Talk to other people who’ve undergone treatment for prostate cancer, in your family and at work.

  
  

Be sure to ask your doctor the following questions about treatment if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer. If you are uncomfortable asking the questions, have a family member or friend ask your doctor for you.

• "What treatments may be best for me and why?"

  
  



• "How much time can I take to decide on a treatment?"

  
  



• "Is nerve-sparing surgery an option for me, so that I can have a good chance of staying sexually potent?" (assuming surgery is recommended).

  
  



• "Should I have radioactive seeds implanted, external radiation treatments, or both?" (assuming radiation treatments are recommended)

  
  



• "Do I need to consult with other doctors? If so, what kind of doctors should I see and why?"

  
  

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How to Deal with Side Effects of Prostate Cancer Treatment

The possible side effects of prostate cancer treatment cause most men to worry. The following information can help you talk to your doctor about overcoming and controlling the side effects that may accompany treatment for prostate cancer:

• Impotence: If your doctor recommends prostatectomy surgery, ask him if nerve-sparing surgery, which can often preserve the ability to have erections, is an option for you. Also, if you do experience impotency after treatment, talk to your doctor about good solutions (such as Viagra, vacuum pumps, injections, and penile implants).

  
  



• Incontinence: Your doctor can prescribe drugs that will relieve you of the constant feeling that you have to go --- right now! You can also practice bladder exercises such as Kegels, which strengthen your bladder muscle. If the problem is severe, surgery to implant an artificial bladder sphincter can help resolve it. This should get you urinating normally again.

  
  



• Fatigue: If the problem is fatigue (and often, it is!) make sure you get at least seven hours of sleep a night. Also, a simple exercise regimen or regular walks can counteract tiredness. If fatigue stems from cancer-fighting drugs, ask your doctor about medications to combat your fatigue.

  
  



• Irritability, mood swings, and depression: Overcome emotional problems with therapy and support groups. Often your doctor can prescribe medications that can help.

  
  

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Tips for Partners of People with Prostate Cancer

It may feel like the world is falling apart if your partner is diagnosed with prostate cancer. It is scary for both of you. Here are some tips for you to help your partner as he struggles with prostate cancer.

• Be supportive. Let your partner know that you hate the cancer, too, and that you’re going to be there to help him fight it.

  
  



• Offer to go with your partner to see the doctor. If he is still upset over the diagnosis, he may miss half (or more) of what the doctor says. If you go to the doctor with him, you can take notes and ask a few questions.

  
  



• Realize that your partner will likely have at least a few weeks (if not months) before having to decide on a treatment. Take that time to help him gather information about treatments, support groups, and specialists.

  
  



• Convince your partner to take timeout from thinking about prostate cancer. Take in a football game or movie, walk in the park, or do other activities you enjoy together. Replenish your mental energies so that you’ll be better prepared to tackle the disease, treatment side effects, and long-term prognosis.

  
  



• Take some time out just for you — go to a movie or eat out with friends. Don’t devote all your time to thinking about resolving your partner’s prostate cancer problem. You’ll burn yourself out, and that won’t help him or you.

  
  

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/prostate-cancer-for-dummies-cheat-sheet.html

Strategic Planning: Ensure Your Business Continues after You Leave

The fact that you’ll leave your business at some point is a given. If you’ve been ignoring this point, you’re not alone. People start and run businesses for numerous reasons, and so much energy goes into that process that most owners never really consider how it may end.

The reason most business owners avoid this entire discussion is because it’s not the most inspiring topic. Nevertheless, setting a clear exit strategy is imperative to ensuring that your years of hard work pay off in the end. Take a self-assessment to see where you are with your exit planning.

Planning an exit strategy shouldn’t begin when you decide to sell your company. Although setting aside time for planning in smaller organizations is hard because you don’t have a person who can dedicate her time to strategic planning, take the time to make strategy part of your culture. Knowing your options and a few best practices can make this task seem less intimidating.

Don’t leave anyone out of the planning process because, in a smaller organization, you run the risk of alienating some people. Although you may not think that including everyone on the staff is appropriate, how will it look if everyone but two or three members is included? Be sure to find ways to engage everyone in the process.

The first phase of your transition is called exit planning — directing how to transfer the business when you leave. Exit planning is a key part of your organization’s strategic direction because it dictates how you set up your business for the long run. The following list outlines the four different ways you can exist your business. Each one results in a different outcome.

• Transfer ownership to a family member. If you’ve groomed a relative to take over, this approach is probably your most likely exit strategy.

  
  



• Sell to employees or other owners. If you have other owners or a pool of dedicated employees, this approach will most likely ensure your business lives on under its current operating state.

  
  



• Sell to a third party. Depending on your business’s valuation, this approach may be the most lucrative to you and other owners.

  
  



• Liquidate. Probably the most unattractive, this exit strategy is often used when no other options exist.

  
  

The second phase of your transition is succession planning, which involves determining who runs the business when you depart. Succession planning is necessary for three of the four strategies listed in this section (not liquidation).

Consider drafting your own personal vision statement that includes your exit strategy for your business. This statement doesn’t necessarily need to be shared with your staff, but it can guide the strategic growth of your organization.

When creating your vision, consider the following: Do you want to grow or stay small? If you want to grow, by how much? What future do you want to create for your business? Being crystal clear about your owner’s vision is really important, because if you’re fuzzy on your vision, it will never materialize.

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Source:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/strategic-planning-ensure-your-business-continues-.html