| How to Dye Eggs for Easter Posted: 01 Apr 2018 05:00 PM PDT Coloring hard boiled eggs is an Easter tradition. The fun part is, there are so many ways to do it! You can do single coloured eggs, but an added touch never hurt anyone. You can eat these eggs, give them as gifts, or use them for decoration. - Organise the supplies needed. There are a few things you need to do before commencing:
- Buy a half dozen to a dozen eggs at the grocery store, or collect them fresh from your hens.
- Hard boil the eggs. Do this by placing the eggs into a saucepan with a pinch of salt and covering with water. Bring to the boil and then reduce to a simmer. Simmer for at least ten (10) minutes and then lift the eggs out carefully with a spoon or tongs. Place them under cold running water until they are cool enough to handle, at least a minute, and cool completely on a rack in the refrigerator before using.[1]
- Buy an egg decorating kit! These usually consist of several dye pellets, colour coded cups, a special egg spoon, and, of course, directions to make the dye. Or buy a set of little bottles of food colouring, which you can use for all kinds of projects such as tie-dyed cake.
- Follow the directions on the dye packaging carefully and make the dye. In most cases, you drop the pellets into water or vinegar (about 1 tablespoon of vinegar). (Liquid food colouring usually requires vinegar). Make sure to have both nearby. You can use a glass, cup, or a bowl to pour the water into, just make sure the container has enough space for the egg. A disposable plastic cup (suitable for hot liquids, if you're using them) would be perfect because staining it won't matter and it may cushion eggs dropped in a little.
- Set the containers of dye in a row. Place the hard boiled eggs in one spot for easy access. It's also a good idea to set up the work surface by covering it with newspaper (you can then rest the eggs on this as you add more dye effects, and it will also catch dye drips.) And add an egg carton or a wire rack for drying the eggs on after they are dyed.
- Decorate each egg before dyeing if you intend on adding features. If wished, you can draw on the eggs with crayon, or place rubber bands or dot stickers on the egg. Covering parts of the egg with tape, stickers, crayon wax from drawing, or rubber bands will result in the covered parts of the egg not being coated in the dye you are about to dip the egg in but will create their own cool effects.
- You could dye an egg a light colour, mask off parts, and dye the rest a darker colour.
- Naturally, you can add decorative effects after dyeing as well. It's really up to you and a good way to find out what you prefer is to try decorating both before and after dyeing the eggs.
- Set the egg on the egg spoon, and lower it into the desired colour. You can either lower it in partway to dye only a certain segment of the egg, or lower it in all the way. Leave the egg in for at least 3 minutes before considering removing it.[2]
- The egg will soak up more colour the longer you wait, so if the colour isn't what you want just yet, leave it a little longer.
- Place the removed egg onto a work surface that has been covered in newspaper. At this point, you can place a different drop of colouring on the egg for added colour effects and then blow through a straw to disperse the drop of dye across the egg. This will make interesting new patterns. You can also use a paintbrush to move the dye around if you like.
- To make an especially beautiful egg, repeat these steps as much as desired. Continuous re-dipping of the eggs will result in colours mixing together, multiple layers of patterns (some coloured), and varicolored stripes. You can take off the bands and stickers in between rinses or not; experiment with different methods, as explained in the next sections.
- Leave the eggs to dry in the egg carton or, better yet, a wire rack which will minimise the marred contact points. Place each egg there as done, and get on with the next egg until you've finished with them all.
EditMarbled Eggs - Prepare the egg dye according to the package or make your own using natural food colourings. If you plan to eat the eggs, make sure to use food-grade dyes.
- Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to each container of dye. Note that if you want to dye some eggs normally or give them a base colour before marbling, do that first. Once the oil is in the dye, you can't go back! Experiment by adding a bit more oil to the dyes; different amounts create different amounts of marbling.
- Better yet, float droplets of a concentrated food coloring-vinegar (for colorfastness) mixture on a bed of shaving cream or float droplets of an oil-based immiscible food coloring on water, rake the color into a loose pattern, and dip the egg briefly to marble it as one would marble paper.[3] You may need to dip one end or side of the egg at a time. A pair of tongs with loop-ended jaws would hold the egg securely and mask very little of its surface. If you use shaving cream, let the egg dry before rubbing off the excess foam.[4] With either method, be prepared for the possibility that the colour may stick to you or what you're wearing better than the egg, even after it's dry.
- Dip quickly. Using a spoon or the dipper that comes with a kit, lower the egg completely into the dye and remove it quickly. Because oil and water don't mix, you'll get colour on some parts of the egg, and none on others, creating a marbled effect. Keep dipping to get a brighter color.
- Dry the eggs on a paper towel. Lightly pat the just-dipped eggs with a paper towel, or the colour may become muddy. If you want to dip them in another colour, wait until they're completely dry first.
- Add some shine. Moisten a paper towel with vegetable oil and lightly wipe down the finished eggs with it to add a nice shine.
- Refrigerate. Refrigerate the eggs until you're ready to display them.
- Wow everyone with your masterpiece!
EditSponge Dip - Put five drops of food coloring in a cup and add a few drops of water.
- Dip a sponge into the cup and press onto egg.
- Let it dry.
- Do the same with a different color.
- Continue using other sponges with different colors, but let dry in between.
EditPolka Dot Eggs - Stick dot stickers on the egg.
- Color it with any color or colors.
- Let the egg dry completely.
- Carefully peel off the stickers.
- Alternatively, paint the dots onto each egg as preferred.
EditGlitter Egg - Dye the egg the desired color or colors.
- Add white vinegar to the dye for a deeper color.
- Cover with glitter paint. Or, add glitter to the dye beforehand (this is easier).
- Let dry. You now have a very glam egg for Easter.
- Finished. The glitter egg is now ready for displaying.
- You can combine techniques for an even cooler looking egg.
- If using crayon/candle wax to draw patterns on the egg before dying, the egg needs to be room temperature for the wax to stick to the shell.
- Use natural dyes like crushed blueberry juice or turmeric.
- Try not to make all the eggs too dark or too bright. If they are, they won't stand out as much.
- Did you know? In 2005, Belgian chocolate maker Guylian created a 27-foot, 3-inch tall, 4,299-pound edible chocolate Easter egg out of 50,000 praline chocolate bars.
- The more vinegar you put in with the dye, the more vibrant the colours will be.
- Why eggs? The egg is a symbol of Christ's resurrection because the egg represents new life. Various cultures around the world have traditions focused on giving dyed or decorated eggs, with some countries having very distinctive methods for dyeing eggs.[5] It can be a fun thing to do with kids to look up the different styles of egg decorations from around the world; ask them which ones they'd like to try to decorate their eggs.
- The longer you leave an egg in the dye, the darker the colour will be. So, you can do a "quick dunk" for a lighter colour.
- Blow out an egg for a hollow shell to decorate elaborately and keep for a long time. When dyeing a blown egg, it can help to leave the spoon (or whatever else was used to dip the egg in) on top of the egg, because hollow eggs float. After you take them out, make sure to have newspaper or paper towels under the eggs to catch any dye that drips from the holes.
- Hard boiled eggs will keep for 4 days in the refrigerator.[6]
- The glitter egg is for decoration only, so don't eat it.
- Peel the eggs before eating, and don't eat the shells!
- Only eat the eggs if you have kept them refrigerated and you have used non-toxic, food-grade dyes and decorations. Egg shells are very porous!
EditThings You'll Need - To Set Up:
- Hard boiled eggs
- Egg decorating kit
- Egg carton(s)
- Vinegar
- Water
- Measuring cup(s)
- For the "Fancy" Eggs:
- Crayons
- Rubber bands
- Dot stickers
- Sponges
- Glitter paint
- Vegetable oil
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| How to Move Overseas Posted: 01 Apr 2018 09:00 AM PDT If you are moving overseas, there are many steps that you can take to make the process less stressful. Contact your local consulate to get all the necessary information about applying for an appropriate visa or residency permit. Make sure that you are organized and financially prepared for the move. Once you arrive in your new country, make an effort to explore and socialize to make the most of your time there. EditTaking Care of Essential Details - Visit your local consulate for information. To find out what steps you should take to move to an overseas country, visit your local consulate. Ask about long-term visas, and whether the application process has to be completed before you embark on your move. These laws vary from country to country, so it is important to inquire about the specific requirements for the country you want to move to.[1]
- Apply for a work visa if you have a job in the country. Most travel visas last no longer than 3 months, making them unsuitable for a move overseas. Visit your local consulate to get the proper paperwork to apply for a work visa. As a general rule, the application process either requires that you prove that you are working at a job that is sending you overseas, or that you have a job lined up for when you arrive in the country.[2]
- Have your current or new employer issue official proof of employment to you to present to the government.
- You can also apply for a temporary residency if you do not have work lined up. [3]
- Register for the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program if you're a US citizen. The STEP program allows U.S. citizens to enroll with a local embassy or consulate when they are travelling or living abroad. As a member, you will receive information, assistance, and the possibility of contacting friends and family back home in an emergency.[4]
- Visit https://step.state.gov/ to enroll.
- If you are not a U.S. citizen, look online for a similar program in your country.
- Work out your health coverage plans for your new country of residence. Most medicare and insurance policies will not cover the cost of overseas medical expenses. Ask your insurance provider for a quote on high deductible policies that would cover your medical fees abroad, or look for an insurance provider in your new country and get a quote. Research the cost of paying out of pocket for different everyday or emergency services in your destination country to compare costs.[5]
- Do research online to see if your medical fees might be covered by your new country's government.
- Contact your bank to inform them of your move. Moving to a new country can have financial implications due to the change in currency and distance from your own financial institution. Contact your bank as soon as you decide to move to work out the details of your overseas financial situation. Depending on the institution, your bank may still be able to serve you without drastically altering fees or account settings.[6]
- Redirect your mail to a trusted loved one or mail forwarding service. You are bound to receive mail after you move overseas, which will end up at your former residence or get lost. Visit the post office to redirect your mail to the address of someone you trust to open certain correspondence that might be important. Alternatively, you can register for a mail forwarding service, where an employee will scan your mail and open it for you whenever necessary.[7]
- Prepare to file taxes in both your home country and destination country. After moving, be sure to address your tax requirements by consulting government resources or getting professional help. Contact the nearest municipal tax office in your new country or visit the department's website to get information about filing requirements and deadlines. If you are unsure about how to proceed, hire an accountant or tax preparation service to file your taxes for you.[8]
- Visit your doctor for vaccines and an international proof of immunization. Depending on where you are moving overseas, it might be necessary to complete your immunizations before you leave. Visit your doctor several weeks before your move so that any vaccinations you may receive have time to take effect in your body. Your doctor can provide you with an International Certificate of Vaccination booklet, which may prevent possible visa complications down the line.[9]
- Visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel for more information about what you should do to safeguard your health before travelling to your destination country.
- Learn the country's primary language for easier communication. If you are moving to a country that communicates primarily in another language, take the time to learn basic words and phrases before moving there. In emergency situations it may be beneficial or necessary to communicate clearly. Buy language books or software, visit translation websites, or take an introductory class to learn the fundamentals of the language.[10]
EditCompleting the Moving Process - Research living options online. Get a sense of the apartments, condos, and homes available in the neighborhood you will be working in overseas. Visit real estate websites for that region to see listings and inquire about some by email if you are interested in them. Online classified ads for the city you are moving too may also yield good living options.[11]
- Take a short trip overseas to find a living space if you can budget for it. The best way to find somewhere to live in your new overseas home is to visit before your move. If you can afford it, take the trip at least a month in advance to secure a new home. Make arrangements with the landlord or real estate agent about when you can pick up the keys upon your final move.[12]
- Book your flight overseas as soon as you decide on your moving date. If you want to find cheap airfare, it is best to book your flight overseas as early as possible. This will also leave you time to contact the airline about issues that might come up about bulky or heavy luggage or other concerns. If possible, book a refundable flight in the event that your moving date needs to be changed.[13]
- Sell or give away belongings that are difficult to move. It can be difficult and very pricey to move your possessions with you overseas. Pare down your belongings as much as possible before leaving. Sell furniture, heavy possessions, or unnecessary items through online classified ads, social media listings, or within your own social circle.
- Hire a relocation company if you have a lot to transport overseas. If you opt to bring furniture, appliances, and other belongings with you, hire a relocation company. A relocation agent can take care of the scheduling and paperwork for this transport, which is usually done through sea containers. Ask your relocation agent how you should pack your boxes to optimize the transport and prevent issues, such as damage or customs delays.[14]
- If you choose to handle this alone, you will have to handle customs declarations, insurance coverage, port documents, packing details, and other legal considerations on your own.
- Pack the boxes securely with bubble wrap and tape. The boxes you pack your belongings in should be secure enough to protect their contents during their voyage. Use thick cardboard boxes that are assembled with strong packing tape. Cover your items with bubble wrap before packing them.[15]
- Add extra layers of bubble wrap around breakable items like lamps or dishes.
- Pack the items you will need right away in your travel suitcases. When you actually move overseas, keep the things that you need immediately in your suitcase. These items should include clothing, shoes, toiletries, and medications. You should also be sure to have your wallet, cell phone, identification cards, and important travel documents with you.[16]
EditAdapting to the New Country - Make new friends by frequenting local hangouts using networking apps. To make friends in a new country, you must be proactive. Visit the same local coffee shops, restaurants, bars, or other hangouts to build up a familiarity with the staff and local patrons. You can also sign up for a social networking app that will connect you to other people in your area. For instance, Meetup will allow you to meet individuals with similar interests for organized activities.[17]
- Watch local TV, listen to local radio, and read local newspapers. Staying up to date with local news and events is good way to feel included in your new country. Exposing yourself to the country's language in audio and visual form will also help you absorb it better. Tune into local TV and radio shows and read the local paper as much as possible to stay informed.[18]
- Do tourist activities in your new home to get to know the culture. Immersing yourself in the cultural activities of your new city is the best way to settle in and feel at home. Visit tourist centres or ask local people about the main attractions of the region that any traveller should visit. Read up on the history, customs, and traditions known to the area.[19]
- Update your wardrobe to suit the country's weather and style trends. A move to a new country will likely mean adapting to a new climate. If your current wardrobe is not appropriate for the weather, purchase the items you need to be comfortable and practical. To fit in with local fashion, observe style trends and visit local stores to shop for new items.[20]
- For instance, if you move to a very rainy region, you might invest in rain boots.
- Fight homesickness by staying active and engaged. Feelings of culture shock or homesickness are best dealt with by keeping your mind and body occupied. Exercise and participate in activities that make you happy, such as dancing or listening to your favorite music. This will improve your mental and physical health, making you feel better overall.[21]
- Contact loved ones back home with email and video conferencing. While regular phone calls can be very expensive on landlines or cell phones, you can use the wifi to communicate cheaply. Use a video conferencing platform like Skype to communicate with audio or video calls to loved ones. You can also keep in touch with email if busy schedules or a time zone difference prevent live calls.
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| How to Block a Credit Card Posted: 01 Apr 2018 01:00 AM PDT If your credit card goes missing, you'll need to act quickly to prevent fraudulent activity. Fortunately, temporary blocks are quickly becoming an industry standard. If your creditor allows you to temporarily deactivate your card, simply call them or go online to block it. Turn it back on if your card turns up, or report it lost or stolen if you can't find it within 2 days. If necessary, get a new card with new numbers. If you're concerned about identity theft, you can also freeze your credit, which will prevent anyone from opening a new line of credit in your name. EditBlocking a Card Temporarily - Call your creditor or log on to your online account. Many credit issuers allow customers to temporarily block a missing card. If your creditor offers this feature, visit their website or open your mobile app. You can also call your creditor and have a customer service representative make the switch.[1]
- If you have an online account, you'll only need to log into the website. If you call customer service, you'll need to provide your account number along with identifying information, such as your Social Security number.
- You can reach Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit https://www.chase.com.
- Call Capital One at 1-877-383-4802 or go to https://www.capitalone.com.
- Call American Express at 1-800-528-4800 or visit https://www.americanexpress.com.
- If you have another creditor, look online to find their customer service line.
- Go to account management and switch off your card. After logging on to your online account or mobile app, find the account or card management section. Look for a link titled "Misplaced Card," "Lock Your Card," or something similar. Clicking the link will direct you to a page where you can simply toggle an on/off switch.[2]
- Report suspicious activity immediately. If your card is missing or stolen, monitor your statements closely, even if you've temporarily blocked it. Contact your creditor if you see any strange charges, no matter how small.[3]
- Thieves often make a tiny purchase to see if you'll notice before making large charges.
- Unblock your card if you find it. You can quickly reactivate your card if you find it in the sofa cushions or under your car seat. Head to your online account or mobile app, or call customer service. Toggle the on/off switch if you're handling it yourself, or ask the customer service representative to reactivate your card.[4]
- If you have an online account, simply log into your creditor's website. If you call customer service, provide your account number and identifying information.
- Report your card as lost if you can't find it within 2 days. Temporarily blocking your card is no substitute for reporting it as lost or stolen. If it doesn't turn up within 2 business days, call your creditor and let them know your card is gone for good. Ask the representative for a replacement with a new number.[5]
- If you report your lost card before any fraudulent charges are made, you won't be liable for any losses. If you report it within 2 business days, you'll only be liable for $50 (USD) if fraudulent charges were made before you turned off the card. If you wait longer than 2 business days and fraudulent charges are made, your maximum loss could be $500.
EditReplacing a Lost or Stolen Card - Ask your creditor for a new card and account number. You can call customer service or report your card as stolen and request a replacement online. Fill out the online form or ask the customer service representative for a replacement. Verify that your new card will have a new set of numbers.[6]
- If you call customer service, write down the name of the person who helps you. Keep their name and the date you called in your records.
- Ask if they update merchants that charge recurring payments. Creditors often automatically send your updated credit card information to companies that make regular charges. If you used the lost card to pay bills, you won't have to go through the hassle of contacting each company yourself.[7]
- If an automatic updater service makes you uncomfortable, ask the customer service representative if you can disable it.
- If your creditor doesn't update merchants automatically, you'll have to update your recurring payments before your bills are due. Call utility providers and other companies that charge recurring payments or log into your accounts on their websites to update your billing information.
- Send a written letter to your creditor. While you're on the phone with your creditor, ask for a mailing address where you can send a written notice. Write a letter that includes your name, address, the old card number, the date your card went missing, the date you requested a replacement, and details about any suspicious transactions.[8]
- For example, you might write, "I am writing to dispute a fraudulent charge on my account in the amount of $98.24 dated 1/2/2018 at 3:15 p.m. I reported this card as lost or stolen via telephone at 4 p.m. on 1/2/2018, and spoke to Jane Doe. I did not make this charge, and am requesting that it be removed, that my account be credited, and that I receive a corrected statement."
- Following up with a written letter provides a paper trail. Suppose your lost card isn't deactivated when you requested and a thief makes fraudulent charges. You'll have proof that you fulfilled your responsibilities and shouldn't be liable for those charges.
- Expedite shipment if you need a new card in a hurry. Depending on your creditor, you'll have to wait anywhere from 24 hours to 10 business days for a new card. When you call for a replacement, ask how long it'll take to arrive. If you need it sooner, ask customer service for the account number so you can make online purchases, or ask them about rush delivery.[9]
- Some companies expedite replacement cards automatically, so you might receive it within 2 days. If not, you might have to pay up to $30 for overnight or priority shipping.
- Ask to see the results of your creditor's investigation. If any suspicious charges were made, your creditor will conduct an investigation within 10 business days. Follow up with them after that length of time and ask about the investigation's status. Ask if results are available or when they will become available.[10]
- Creditors are legally required to share their findings with you. While many cases of credit card fraud are beyond your control, the information could help you lower your risk in the future.
EditFreezing Your Credit - Opt for a freeze instead of a lock. Credit reporting companies offer free or lower cost credit locks, which are not the same as a credit freeze. A credit lock is just a contractual agreement between you and a reporting bureau. While locks and freezes essentially do the same thing, credit freezes are guaranteed by state law, so you'll have absolutely no risk of financial liability.[11]
- If you freeze your credit and someone opens a new line of credit in your name, you'll be legally protected from any financial liability. A credit lock doesn't offer this same legal protection.
- Furthermore, a lock contract with the reporting company could include undesirable terms. For example, a credit lock agreement could prohibit you from participating in a class action lawsuit if something goes wrong. Freezes do not involve a contractual agreement, and the reporting bureau would be liable for any losses.
- Note that credit freezes and locks do not affect your credit score.
- Call each of the credit reporting companies. In order to freeze your credit, you have to contact all 3 nationwide credit reporting companies. Inform the customer service agent that you want a credit freeze. You'll need to provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and other personal information.[12]
- Pay each reporting company a fee. Fees depend on your location and are typically between $5 and $10. In some states, credit freezes are free if you're 65 or older.[13]
- Send written freeze requests to each reporting agency. When you're on the phone with the reporting companies, ask each for a mailing address. If you filed online, check their website for the mailing address that processes freeze requests. Include your name, address, date of birth, and the date that you requested the freeze.[14]
- If you're the victim of identity theft, include a police report with the letter you send to the reporting companies.
- A written letter will provide proof that you requested a freeze on a certain date. If something goes wrong, such as someone opening a line of credit in your name, it's helpful to have documentation that you exercised due diligence. You'll be able to prove that you shouldn't be liable for fraudulent charges because the reporting bureau failed to execute your freeze request.
- Keep your confirmation letters and PINs safe. Each reporting company will send a written confirmation. It will include instructions about lifting the freeze and a PIN you'll need in order to lift it. Store these documents in a secure place, such as a safe.[15]
- Lift the freeze if you're applying for new credit, a lease, or a job. A credit freeze will prevent anyone from running an inquiry into your credit history. While freezes expire after 7 years in some states, they remain in place indefinitely in the vast majority of states. If you apply for a new line of credit, job, or apartment lease, you'll need to lift the freeze so the company can run an inquiry.[16]
- If you'll frequently be applying for lines of credit, leases, and jobs, you might want to lift your security freezes permanently instead of paying fees to temporarily thaw them every few months.
- Ask a new creditor, leasing company, or potential employer which reporting company they'll use to check your credit. That way, you can lift the freeze with that company alone instead of having to pay fees to have all 3 lift your freeze.
- Follow the instructions in the confirmation letters to lift the freeze. You'll call the reporting company or go online, provide your personal information and PIN, and specify the dates you want the freeze thawed.
- If you live outside of the United States, you'll still call your creditor and follow similar steps to temporarily block your card or replace a card. The major difference is that each nation has a different set of credit reporting agencies. Search online for your nation and "credit reporting agencies" to find information about your national agencies' procedures for security freezes.[17]
EditSources and Citations
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