How to Learn Old English

Old English is the language used by the Germanic peoples that lived in parts of what is now the United Kingdom between the 5th and 11th centuries, C.E.^[1] Although Old English is no longer a spoken language, many texts still exist in it.^[2] Some academics or other professionals, such as historians or archivists, may need Old English in order to do their work. But you may need to learn Old English to complete classwork or simply be interested in studying the language as a window to the past.^[3] By enrolling in an Old English course or teaching yourself with different media, you can learn Old English.

EditSteps

EditTeaching Yourself Old English

1. Start reading Beowulf. Beowulf is well-known and easy to find, so this will be the best text to start with as you attempt to teach yourself Old English. Find a copy that includes both the Old English text and the modern English translation.
   • You may find it helpful to go line by line. Read the Old English version and then look at its modern English translation. Many line by line or word by word translations are also available online.^[4]
   • You can even find a copy of Beowulf online. Websites for universities such as Oxford or the University of Texas have Beowulf and other Old English texts available.^[5]
2. Learn about special characters. Old English includes many of the same letters that we use today, but it also features some unusual characters. Become familiar with these characters so that you will know how to pronounce them, but bear in mind that despite the fact that "true Ænglisc," or "true Old-English," used Runes, rather than the Latin script, Runes were dropped before the Middle-English Era in favor of the Latin Script, though modified, as you will see next. One other letter, the Medial(Long-)Es was added by the time of the Early-Modern English, otherwise known as its derogatory name: "King-James-English;" it has been added to the following list so that you may recognize it, when reading old English texts:
   • Ææ = this is an Æsh and it sounds like the “a” in “hat(American Pronunciation)”
   • Ðð =this is an Eð and it sounds like the “th” in “weather,” or "the;" Eth fell out of favor, in place of thorn -- eth was created by drawing a line through a "d," and in writing, you can either write a "d," and draw a line through it, that it looks like a "đ(d-stroke,)" or the classic way, as a backwards six with a stroke through it
   • Þþ = this is a Þorne and it sounds like the "th" in "thorn," however the previous letter, eth, fell out of favor, and was replaced with either "th" or thorn, by the time of Middle English, soon thorn suffered the same fate...
   • ſ ʃ = this is a "Medial-'S,'" or "Long-'S.'" The Long-Es was created as an equal to the primary form of the Greek letter Sigma; the Medial-Es functions exactly the same as the Final-Es, which replaced the Medial-Es -- "stress," by in the time of Early-Modern/Late-Middle English was written: "ſtreſs," the word "blessings" was written: "bleſſings;" as you have probably figured out, the Capital-'S' was the same, and the Lowercaſe-'s' were the same as they are today -- "s" only came at the end of a word, it is a "Final-Es." The "ʃ," not to be confused with the African Esh(Sʃ,) was the design of the Medial-Es not common in English, this design was mostly used in Germany.

^[6]

1. Watch for kennings. Kennings are common features of Old English poetry and there are more than a thousand kennings in Beowulf. Kennings take two words from the Old English language and combine them to create a new word that means something different. Kennings were a way for poets to play with language in interesting ways.^[7]
   • For example, in Beowulf, the ocean is referred to as “hwælweg” which translates to “whale road” and the human body is referred to as ”bānhūs” which translates to bone house.
2. Use a textbook. A textbook on Old English can help you to learn more about the language as you read Beowulf.^[8] There are many different textbooks on Old English available and consulting the websites of different scholars who teach the language can help you identify different options that might work for you.^[9] Some areas you’ll want any textbook to cover are the Old English:
   • Alphabet
   • Pronunciation
   • Vocabulary
   • Sentence structure and grammar
   • Word forms.^[10]
3. Keep a glossary available. Chances are that you’ll run into words in your textbook and other Old English readings that you don’t understand. Having a glossary at your fingertips can help you understand the text more effectively and quickly.^[11]
   • Purchase an Old English dictionary or glossary in a bookstore.
   • Search for online glossaries. Many universities, such as the University of Pennsylvania, offer Internet dictionaries and glossaries in Old English.^[12]

EditTaking a Class in Old English

1. Sit in on a class at a local university. Although not common, many colleges and universities offer classes in Old English because young scholars need the language to do their work.^[13] Seeing if any of your local learning institutions have classes in Old English can help you find a beginner class or any other level you may need.^[14]
   
   • Check university websites to see if they offer courses in Old English. You may find that English, history, archaeology, or other humanities and social science departments offer Old English classes.
   • Find faculty who specialize in English literature from that period. They can often tell you when and where courses are offered.
   • Figure out if you can sit in, or audit, Old English courses without enrolling at the university. You may first want to contact the professor to inquire if she minds having someone audit the course. Once you have her approval, contact the university registrar to see how you audit a course. You may want to ask if you have to pay anything or if you can just sit in on the lectures.
2. Take an online class. Some universities or other institutions may offer online courses in Old English. Conduct research online and see what your options for online courses in the language are.^[15] If a local university or institution in your area doesn’t offer an Old English, consider an online course from an accredited institution like the University of Texas or the University of Calgary.^[16]
   • See what the requirements for registering for the class are. You may be able to participate without paying any fees.^[17]
   • Try and find a course from a university or other institution of learning because they are more likely to have useful sources to help you successfully master Old English.
3. Hire a private tutor. In some cases, professors or even graduate students may be able to give you private lessons in Old English. Realize that this may be expensive, but an excellent way to learn the language.
   • Contact professors in your local area to see if they teach private lessons in Old English. If not, see if they know of other professors or graduate students who may be able to offer a private course.
   • Be prepared to pay at least $20/ hour. Old English is not a common language and using the time of a scholar to teach you takes away from their time. Ask what they would expect as payment and see if you can negotiate if it seems too high.
4. Join an Old English study group or forum. There are enthusiasts for Old English around the world, many of whom stay in touch and expand their knowledge with study groups and online forums.^[18] Inquire if you can join one of these study groups or online forum to learn the language and network with others who have this common interest.^[19]
   • Be aware that some of these groups require registration or subscription, which means that you may need to send an email stating why you’d like to join. You also may need to commit to participating regularly as well.^[20]
   • Keep in mind these forums may also provide you with other resources or opportunities to learn old English.^[21]

EditTackling the Challenge of Old English

1. Recognize the difficulty of Old English. You may recognize certain basic words in Old English, but a written passage may be impossible to comprehend for a Modern English speaker. Just because Old English is an early version of our modern language doesn’t mean you’ll necessary grasp it quickly, and understanding this can help the ways in which you approach learning it.^[22]
   
   • Learn that the some of the biggest differences come in phonology—Old English is very guttural, much more complex grammar based on proto-Germanic languages, and the largely Germanic vocabulary. Modern English is a much more Latin-based language as a result of the Norman invasion in 1066.^[23]
2. Treat Old English as a foreign language. Old English will be a foreign language to Modern English speakers. You can adopt many of the strategies commonly used for learning foreign languages to studying Old English.^[24]
   
   • Be prepared to learn everything from the start, including the writing system, grammar, and vocabulary.
   • Realize that if you speak German, one of the Scandinavian languages, or any of their dialects, that you may be able to recognize more of the Old English vocabulary and grammatical structures.^[25]
3. Be prepared for a challenge. Learning any new language is a difficult task, and one that requires constant practice. Do not be frustrated by these inevitable challenges, and instead stay focused on your goal.
   
   • Recognize that mastering another language usually takes 5-7 years depending on a variety of factors including your abilities and how much you practice.^[26] Because there are fewer people who understand and speak Old English, this may not give you the chance to practice it very often and may prolong the process of acquiring it.
   • Remember to keep practicing reading texts and speaking whenever you get a chance. This can help you master Old English more quickly.
4. Look for ways to make Old English fun. Whether you are studying Old English for a school requirement or simply out of curiosity, find ways to make the learning process fun and enjoyable. Studies have shown that you are more likely to excel at learning if you enjoy it.^[27]
   
   • Take the process as an opportunity to learn something that other people can’t understand. For example, if you and a friend can both speak some Old English, it can help you have “secret” conversations.
   • Immerse yourself in the history of early England to help you visualize what texts like Beowulf might have looked like.
   • Ask a friend to quiz your knowledge. This can help you learn and be fun for both of you as she laughs at how strange the words sound.

EditTips

• Look at course outlines from university classes in Old English for ideas on books, lessons.^[28] You can also often find other educational material on Old English from these sites.^[29]
• Check your textbook to see if it contains quizzes. If so, doing these can help you gauge your level of understanding.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Speak Old English
• Learn Any Language
• Learn a Language
• Learn French

EditSources and Citations

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How to Determine if Your Rabbit Is Sick

Rabbits are adorable pets, and generally fairly easy to take care of. They can become sick, however, and it is not always immediately apparent when this is the case. Recognizing common gastrointestinal and respiratory problems can help you determine when yours is sick. Noticing any physical or behavioral changes can also give you clues. If you suspect that your bunny is sick, you’ll want to care for it and have a vet examine it.

EditSteps

EditRecognizing Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Symptoms

1. Take notice when your rabbit isn’t eating. Pay attention if your rabbit’s food dish stays full all day long, or if your pet doesn’t eat like it usually does. If your rabbit has a sudden loss of appetite, it can indicate a number of possible illnesses.^[1]
   
2. Make sure your rabbit has regular droppings. Normally, rabbits will produce plenty of even, round droppings. However, if your rabbit has any of the following problems, it may have either a gastrointestinal illness, or an issue that causes this as a symptom:
   • No droppings at all^[2]
   • Irregularly shaped droppings^[3]
   • Diarrhea (loose or runny droppings)^[4]
   • Hair embedded in droppings^[5]
3. Listen to your bunny’s tummy. You can use an ordinary stethoscope (available from many pharmacies and home medical supply stores) to check on your rabbit’s digestive system. Simply place the stethoscope on your pet’s belly and have a listen. If you hear unusual sounds (gurgling, rumbling, etc.), this may indicate that your pet is having gastrointestinal problems, especially when combined with other symptoms such as decreased appetite or diarrhea.^[6]
   • Carefully pick up your bunny by cradling it in your arm and holding it close to you. Never pick it up by the paws or ears. Even if the rabbit kicks or squirms, keep it gently but firmly snuggled next to you so that it does not fall.^[7]
   • Sit down and set your bunny in your lap. Pet it and talk to it in a soothing voice to calm it down.
   • Gently place the stethoscope against your rabbit's side and have a listen.
   • When finished, carefully lower your bunny to the ground or its home. Never let a rabbit drop to the ground, as this can injure it.
4. Learn the signs of snuffles. Rabbits are susceptible to a common illness called snuffles. Ordinarily, this is accompanied by runny eyes and a runny nose as well as sneezing. If you see any of these symptoms (or all of them at once), you will want to have your bunny inspected by a vet.^[8]
   • Unlike human colds that are caused by a virus, rabbit colds are caused by bacteria. Therefore, they can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a vet.^[9]
5. Listen to your bunny’s breathing. Rabbits are obligatory nose breathers, meaning they won’t breathe through their mouths. Normally, you shouldn’t hear or see any labored breathing. If your rabbit seems to be breathing loudly, or moving its chest significantly when breathing, this may be a sign of a respiratory problem or other issue.^[10]
6. Notice when your rabbit sneezes. Occasionally, a rabbit may get some dust in its nose and need to sneeze. If you notice chronic (frequent) sneezing, however, your rabbit may be sick.^[11]

EditWatching for Physical Changes

1. Feel your rabbit’s ears. Rabbits are able to regulate their temperature by radiating heat through their ears. If you notice that your bunny’s ears are unusually hot or cold, it can indicate that it is sick.^[12]
   
2. Take your rabbit’s temperature. If you suspect that your bunny’s temperature is unusually high or low, you can take its temperature to be sure. This can help you or a vet make a diagnosis.^[13]
   • Use a plastic rectal thermometer to check your pet’s temperature. If you are uncomfortable with this, or unsure of how to do it, take your rabbit to a vet for help.
   • A rabbit’s normal body temperature ranges between 101 F - 103 F (38.3 C - 39.4 C).
3. Inspect your rabbit’s eyes. If you see tears or a discharge coming from your rabbit’s eyes, this could indicate a variety of illnesses. Aside from respiratory issues, dental problems could be the culprit. The roots of some rabbits’ teeth are close to their tear ducts. Dental problems may put pressure on these parts, which will then cause the tearing.^[14]
4. Watch out for changes in weight. Once your rabbit is fully-grown, it will ordinarily maintain a fairly consistent weight. If you notice that your pet has gained or lost significant weight, especially if this happens suddenly, this may indicate that it is sick.^[15]
5. Check your rabbit’s skin and fur. You will be familiar with the color and texture of your bunny’s fur and skin. If you notice that your pet is losing clumps of hair, or that its skin has become reddened, this may indicate an issue such as ringworm.^[16]
   
   • Some conditions can cause a rabbit to have incontinence. Urine-soaked hindquarters are a clear sign of this problem. Contact a vet right away if you notice this issue.
6. Inspect your bunny’s genitalia. Rabbits can suffer from a virus known as myxomatosis. This is spread by biting insects such as mosquitos, and can cause redness and swelling of the genitalia, as well as runny eyes and nose.^[17]
   • Sit down with your bunny in your lap. Pet it and talk to it soothingly for a few minutes to calm it down.^[18]
   • When the bunny is calm, very carefully roll it over, using your non-dominant hand to support its back. Place it so that its head is curled against your abdomen, and its hind feet are sticking out away from you.
   • Whether male or female, your rabbit's genitals will be a fuzzy protuberance between its hind legs. Normally, they will be hidden by fuzz and not completely visible. If you see any obvious or abnormal swelling or redness, however, this may indicate myxomatosis or another problem.
   • You can also gently press on your bunny's abdomen above the genital area. This will make the genitals more visible and easier to inspect.^[19]
   • Your bunny may not like to be inspected in this way. To avoid accidentally harming it, always be sensitive and keep in mind any injuries or disabilities it may have.

EditPaying Attention to Behavioral Changes

1. Watch out for any changes in attitude. Rabbits can develop their own personalities, and can display a wide range of normal behaviors. If you notice a sudden change in behavior, however, this may indicate an illness or other health problem. For instance, if sick, a normally playful bunny may not want to be bothered, or an aloof bunny may suddenly become clingy.^[20]
   
   • Regardless of your bunny’s normal behavior patterns, sudden lethargy can be a clear sign that it is sick.
2. Pay attention if your bunny drools. Rabbits are susceptible to a variety of dental problems, such as malocclusion (misalignment) and abscesses. If you notice your pet drooling, this may be happening because they cannot close their mouth or are in pain due to one of these dental problems.^[21]
3. Observe how your bunny moves. If your rabbit has started to hop unusually, this can indicate a variety of illnesses. For instance, if your pet seems to have lost its balance or moves with its head tilted to one side (a condition called wry neck), this may actually be due to a bacterial infection of the ears. Similarly, if your bunny seems to lean to one side when hopping, this may indicate sore hocks.^[22][23]
   
4. Listen for teeth grinding. When happy, many rabbits make a kind of purring sound by grinding their teeth. If your bunny is noisily grinding its teeth together, however, this can indicate that it is in pain.^[24]
   • You may notice your rabbit making a happy grinding noise when you are petting it, feeding it treats, or calming it down. Pay attention to this behavior, so that you can know what to expect from your bunny.
   • Grinding as a reaction to pain will be much louder than the "happy" version. You may also notice that the louder grinding is accompanied by other signs of discomfort, such as squirming or kicking.
5. Pay attention if your rabbit shakes. A particular virus known as the calicivirus can cause a variety of symptoms, including loss of appetite, lethargy, and breathing difficulties. It can also cause your bunny to shake, however, which may be a more obvious sign.^[25]
6. Notice if your bunny is scratching or itching excessively. Like dogs, cats, and other pets, rabbits are susceptible to fleas, mites, and other pests. These parasites can cause scratching, itching, and general irritation.^[26]
   • If your rabbit has fleas, you may also notice dark, dry dust on your pet’s fur or skin. Known as “flea dirt,” this is dried blood that is a waste product of fleas.
   • Do not give your rabbit dog or cat flea medication. It can make your pet very sick, and may even be fatal. Talk to your vet about safe ways of eliminating parasites from your rabbit.

EditTips

• Anytime you are concerned that your bunny is sick or injured, have its veterinarian inspect it. He or she can make a diagnosis, and help you come up with a treatment plan if there is a problem.

EditSources and Citations

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via Peter

How to Improve Your Relationship With Your Spouse

Marriage is the ultimate bond between two partners. You made a vow to love one another for better or for worse, but sometimes things become strained. Perhaps you had a bad fight, you feel yourselves drifting apart, or you may have simply reached a point where you realize you need to improve the relationship. Relationships require work and commitment to keep your love for one another strong, and marriage is no exception. With a little effort, some understanding, and a bit of patience, you and your spouse can improve your marriage and remember why you pledged your love to one another.

EditSteps

EditWorking on Communication

1. Listen to your spouse. Often times couples that have been together for a long time take the things that are said for granted. For example, your spouse might tell you that something you're doing has been bothering him/her, but you might assume that it's not a big deal because you've been together for so long. However, little things add up, and when your partner feels invalidated or unheard, that can lead to bigger trust and intimacy issues down the line.^[1]
   
   • Start with spending quality time with your spouse. Quality time is time that you reserve unconditionally and completely for your spouse. No matter what happens, you reserve this time for your spouse. Phone rings? Hang up and shut it off in front of your spouse. Mean it. And then ... listen. Sit together, watch each other, enjoy each others presence and enjoy being together. At least once a week for 30 - 60 minutes. And while you're at it, remember why you married your spouse.
   • If your spouse tells you there is a problem, you need to take that statement seriously. Work on solving the problem, either alone or together, but make sure you take your partner's concerns seriously.
   • Address your partner's needs. If your spouse is telling you what he or she wants from the relationship, you need to put in the effort to make it happen or work together to find a compromise.
2. Be open and honest with each other. Honesty is tremendously important in a relationship, especially if you're married. You want to feel that you can trust your spouse, and you want your partner to feel the same way. But honesty and openness extends beyond just telling the truth; it also means not withholding information, and not holding back when there's something you want to address.^[2]
   
   • Never lie to your partner. Even a small lie, like saying something doesn't bother you when it secretly does, can eventually boil over into resentment and arguments.
   • Open up and let yourself be vulnerable with your partner. Tell your spouse your secret hopes and dreams, your deepest fears, and other things that you keep hidden.
   • Let your partner open up and be vulnerable with you. This can help build trust and foster a stronger sense of intimacy and affection.
3. Work on compromising. Compromising can be difficult, especially when emotions are running high after an argument. However, needing to be right for 30 seconds isn't worth the strain that argument could put on your relationship down the line. It's normal to disagree or even argue from time to time, but you need to be willing to let go of your side in the name of compromising and collaborating.
   
   • Don't think of arguments as something that need to be "won." This is dangerous thinking, as it pits you and your spouse against each other.^[3]
   • Let go of things that aren't worth fighting over. Even if you weren't in the wrong, it's not worth the stress and frustration of an argument.
   • Be willing to cede an argument. Just because you think you're right, it doesn't mean arguing your point any further will get you anywhere, so work on dropping it before it escalates.
   • Compromise makes your relationship stronger. When you both set aside your needs, including your need to be right, you can work together as a team for the betterment of both partners.^[4]
4. Use "I" statements. When you and your spouse have a disagreement, it's important to avoid using accusations or insults. One way many spouses inadvertently hurt their partners is by using "you" statements instead of "I" statements. Using "I" statements can help convey the way you're feeling and promote a productive, positive conversation, instead of hurting your partner's feelings.
   
   • A "you" statement conveys blame to your partner. For example, "You're always late, and you make me look bad as a result!"
   • An "I" statement reframes the conversation in a way that focuses on the feeling, not on pinning blame or guilt. For example, "When you don't keep track of the time and we have somewhere to be, it makes me feel like you're not taking my feelings into consideration."
   • An "I" statement has three components: a concise and non-accusatory description of the specific behavior you're having problems with, your feelings on that behavior, and the tangible, concrete effect your partner's specific behavior has on you.^[5]
   • The behavior component should stick to the facts of the situation, your feelings should be directly related to that behavior, and the effect should either specify the consequences or support your feelings on the matter.^[6]
   • The goal is to be as specific as possible and stick to the issue at hand. Don't drag up other unrelated issues or feelings, just focus on the tangible effects of the current problem.
5. Never yell at your partner. Many people begin yelling without even realizing it. When you have an argument, your emotions may be running high, and you might feel very passionately about the thing you're debating. However, yelling at your spouse will only have one of two results: either your partner will yell back, and you'll be screaming at one another, or your partner will become fearful of you. Either way, it's a damaging situation that can put a huge strain on your relationship.^[7]
   
   • It may feel relieving in the moment to yell and let out your frustrations, but your emotions will be running high.
   • You're more likely to say things that you don't mean when you yell, and you won't be able to take back those hurtful words later when you're calmed down.
   • Avoid talking about important things when you (and/or your partner) are upset. Take a walk, or simply excuse yourself from the room for 5 or 10 minutes, then restart the conversation when you're both calm.

EditRekindling the Romance

1. Change up your routine. Whether you've been married for two years or twenty years, it can easily feel like you and your partner have fallen into a rut. Routines form because they are convenient and they make it easier to navigate your day-to-day life, but falling into ruts and routines in your relationship can slowly kill the romance without you even realizing it.^[8]
   
   • If you usually eat in most nights, try going out for a date night. If you typically make your own separate meals, try cooking a meal for your partner and eating together.
   • Do something exciting together that you and your spouse wouldn't normally do. It doesn't have to be anything crazy, but it should push you both to have fun and get excited together.
   • Take a romantic vacation together, or just plan a fun and exciting day together - even if it just means going to a carnival or an amusement park.
2. Flirt with one another. When you and your spouse were dating, you probably flirted with one another all the time. So why did you stop? Most couples get comfortable with one another, which is obviously a good thing. But the downside of getting comfortable is forgetting how to turn on the charm, often because you haven't had to in several months (or even years).^[9]
   
   • Make eye contact.
   • Smile at your partner and act giggly.
   • Use romantic body language, and mimic your partner's body language.^[10]
   • Stand facing one another, avoid crossing your arms, and lean in towards one another when you speak.
3. Increase your physical contact. Physical contact is an important component of intimacy. Physical contact makes you feel desired, and it can make you feel comfortable and closer with your partner. If you're already very intimate and have a lot of physical contact, then keep doing it. If you've lost that part of your relationship, make an effort to bring it back.^[11]
   
   • Physical contact doesn't just mean sex (although many people do consider sex a healthy part of marriage). It can mean holding hands, snuggling, embracing, kissing, or any other kind of affectionate contact.
   • Your partner probably wants physical contact as much as you do, but may be too shy or worried that you don't also want it.
   • Don't stress over physical contact, just initiate it. Your partner will appreciate it, and it will help you both feel closer to one another.
   • Remember that feelings often follow actions. If you put forth the effort and try to make a romantic evening for one another, the romantic feelings will follow.^[12]
4. Make time for intimacy. If you've been married for a while, you probably both feel overwhelmed from time to time with trying to balance your work life and your home life. This can be even more daunting if you have kids. But making time for intimacy without any distractions (kids, work calls/emails, etc.) can do wonders to bring back the spark in your relationship, especially if you make it a consistent priority week after week.^[13]
   
   • Spending time with one another, especially with physical contact, often sets the stage for sex and will make you both feel closer to one another.
   • If you have to, schedule time for intimacy and/or sex. Experts advise that even setting aside 30 minutes for some intimate time alone can do wonders for your relationship.
   • Drop your kids off at a babysitter's, or if they're old enough to be out alone you can give them money to go see a movie or shop at the mall. That will buy you some alone time with your spouse.
   • Turn off your cellphones when you're being intimate together. Nothing kills the mood like your partner getting dragged into a long work-related phone call.
   • Intimacy isn't just a one-time thing. You'll need to work hard to make time for it every week, or several times a week, or however often you and your partner need it.
5. Convey your sexual preferences. This relates to being honest and open in your communication with one another. Some people are afraid to convey their desires to others, even to a spouse. However, your preferences are nothing to feel embarrassed or ashamed of. Talk to your partner about what your sexual preferences or fantasies are, and ask your partner about his or her preferences. And no matter what you or your partner want, be mutually respectful of one another's needs.^[14]
   
   • Feeling like your sexual preferences aren't being met can make sex unfulfilling, which over time can feel almost like a chore.
   • The best way to mutually enjoy sex is to communicate to your partner what you like or don't like, and ask your spouse to do the same.
   • Be willing to explore new things together in the bedroom so that you and your partner are both having your needs met. Plus, trying new things in general can lend a spark to your relationship, and you might find you both enjoy your new routine.
   • Being respectful of your partner's needs doesn't mean putting yourself in an uncomfortable situation. It's okay to have boundaries and to expect your partner to respect those boundaries.
6. Consider seeing a couple's therapist. Some people have the impression that couple's therapy is only for people who are on the verge of divorce. However, that is simply not true. Couple's therapy can help you and your spouse work on communication skills, find ways to feel more intimate, and work through any difficulties that arise in your marriage.^[15]
   
   • There's no shame or stigma in seeing a therapist. Couple's therapy can help you and your partner at any stage of your relationship.
   • If you or your partner experience little to no sex drive after previously having a sex drive, your therapist may refer you to your primary physician to see if there are any medical explanations.
   • Sometimes certain medications can reduce sexual urges or the ability to perform sexually. Other times there may be an emotional reason why a person's sex drive decreases.
   • Be honest and open with your therapist and with your doctor to address any intimacy issues you're experiencing.

EditStrengthening Your Marital Bonds

1. Express gratitude for the little things. A big risk in long-term relationships is taking one another for granted. No matter how much you love and appreciate your spouse, there's always a risk that you might get so accustomed to one another that you forget to be grateful for all that your partner does. If you make an effort to express gratitude, your partner will almost certainly do the same.^[16]
   
   • Say thank you when your spouse does something for you, whether it's cooking a meal, fixing a broken cabinet, or just picking something up for you at the store.
   • Letting your partner know that you appreciate the little things will make your spouse feel appreciated, and your partner will be more likely to continue doing nice things for you (and vice versa) in the future.
2. Take the time to notice your partner. Another facet of taking your partner for granted is forgetting to compliment one another. You may think that your partner knows you love him or her, and that may be true. But nothing brings a smile to your face like hearing that someone finds you attractive and desirable, so work to make one another feel special as often as possible.^[17]
   
   • It doesn't take much to notice your partner. Compliment your spouse on an attractive outfit, a recent haircut, any developments after beginning a new workout routine, and so on.
   • Try to praise your partner for his/her efforts in front of others. Bragging about your spouse's accomplishments when he or she is too shy to can really make your spouse feel loved.^[18]
3. Go on a date with your spouse. As your relationship goes on, you might find that it's harder to make time for a date, or to go out and have a romantic evening alone. This can be particularly troublesome if you have children. But having regular date nights spent alone with your spouse can bring back the excitement and the passion that you felt for one another when you were actually dating, and that passion is important in sustaining a long-term marriage.
   
   • Commit to spending the night alone together. Get a babysitter for your kids, or have them sleep over at a friend's house.
   • Choose a romantic restaurant. If you have a favorite place to go or if you can recreate your first date, even better.
   • Get dressed up for one another. Try to impress your spouse as though you were still just dating and not yet married.
   • Take a romantic walk after dinner, or go see a show together. Focus on making it an intimate evening alone together.
4. Make sure you feel fulfilled. In addition to feeling your sexual needs are fulfilled, it's imperative that you feel like your life has meaning and that you've accomplished something. It may come as a surprise, but experts agree that having your own personal goals and accomplishments separate from your spouse can actually strengthen your marriage.^[19]
   
   • When you feel like your own personal goals are being fulfilled, it's easier to devote yourself to your partner.
   • If you're very career-driven, take time for your career. If you're an artist, work on your art. If you're athletic, train for a marathon.^[20]
   • No matter what your partner's goals and accomplishments are, it's important for you to have your own goals. You and your spouse should be supportive of one another, and should celebrate each other's accomplishments.

EditVideo

EditTips

• If you feel jealous, don't make a scene. Talk in private with your significant other, and make sure to say something like: "Look, you know I love you and I trust you, but I can't help it and I do feel jealous of you and that other person. I'm sorry for it". Your significant other should understand and explain the situation so that you won't feel jealous anymore.
• Always show affection. Kiss or hug one another and tell your spouse that you love him or her.
• Go out together. Have a date, whether it's at a fancy restaurant or a hot dog stand. The important thing is that you make time to go out together and talk with one another.
• Respect your partner. Never do anything to betray your spouse's trust, like lying or cheating on them.
• Be nice to your partner's friends, and try to socialize with them a little. Every time you see them, say hi and talk a bit. Friendship is probably important to your spouse, so getting to know his or her friends will go a long way in strengthening your relationship.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Build a Good Relationship With Your Husband
• Improve Your Relationship with Shopping

EditSources and Citations

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How to Recycle Biodegradable Waste

Biodegradable waste is animal or plant matter that breaks down naturally with exposure to microorganisms, heat, and oxygen. Recycling biodegradable waste into a nutrient-rich, usable material is often called composting. The material created through composting can later be added to soil. Since it is not always convenient to compost your own organic waste at home, public services and private organizations are now making it easier than ever for urban and suburban residents to recycle their biodegradable materials.^[1]

EditSteps

EditCollecting Biodegradable Materials

1. Gather organic food waste and scraps. Collecting compostable material requires little additional work—you simply place organic items, such as food waste and scraps in a collection container separate from your trash can. While you may purchase a designated indoor compost bin, many people collect their food scraps and waste in repurposed plastic food containers, trash cans, or compostable bags. After preparing or eating meals, place your food scraps into a compost collection bin.
   
   • Acceptable items include table scraps, fruit, vegetables, and eggshells. These items are considered “green” waste as opposed to “brown” waste.
   • If you are participating in a public or private program, only place approved compostable materials in your bin.
   • If you are composting in your backyard, do not save meat and fish products for your compost pile—these items attract rodents and pests.
   • Store your collection bin under the kitchen sink, on the kitchen counter, in your fridge, or in your freezer.^[2]
2. Collect green manure. If you are composting in your backyard, your pile should include about 50% green waste or manure. These items, which introduce nitrogen into your pile, serve as a catalyst to the compost process. Table scraps and food waste are just two forms of green manure. Other green waste items include:
   
   • Grass clippings
   • Clover
   • Buckwheat
   • Wheatgrass
   • Coffee Grounds
   • Tea leaves or tea bags
   • Store these items in an outdoor yard waste bin.^[3]
3. Set aside brown waste for your compost pile. Brown waste should make up the other 50% of your compost pile. The brown waste adds carbon to your compost pile. You may find brown waste items both inside your home and outside in your yard. These items include:
   
   • Shredded newspaper
   • Shredded paper
   • Shredded brown paper bags
   • Dead branches
   • Twigs
   • Leaves
   • Straw
   • Untreated sawdust^[4]

EditParticipating in a City Composting Plan

1. Contact your city's waste management facilities. Cities across Europe and the United States have committed to reducing or eliminating their residents' waste. In an effort to achieve this goal, these cities have established curbside composting programs. For more information on your community’s public program or to determine if your city provides this service, call your city’s waste management facilities of visit its website.
   
   • Inquire about the cost of the service.
   • Ask if the city provides indoor and curbside collection bins.
   • Ask how frequently the city picks up compostable material. Do they collect it twice a week, once a week, every two weeks, etc.?^[5]
2. Sign-up for your city’s composting program. When you contact your city's waste management facilities or search its website, inquire about or look for instructions on signing-up for the service. Every city’s sign-up process will be slightly different. To join the program, you may need to fill out an online form or send in a paper copy of the contract.^[6]
   
   • Before opting into the city program, renters, especially those in apartments, should contact their landlords.
   • If your building already participates in the city’s program, your landlord may be obligated to provide you with all of the necessary equipment and information. They may also be required to provide tenants with a central composting location.^[7]
   • If your complex is not currently involved in the municipal composting program, head up the initiative to join the composting movement.^[8]
3. Receive a composting starter kit and guidelines. Once you have joined the program, your local municipality may provide you with the equipment and educational resources you need to start composting. The equipment provided may include an indoor collection bin, an outdoor bin, and/or compostable bags. The city may also provide you with a set of instructions, a list of approved biodegradable materials, and a list of unaccepted organic materials.
   
   • The indoor collection bin is typically intended for your kitchen. Many people store this bin under the kitchen sink or on their kitchen counter. Line your inside bin with a compostable bag, newspaper, or a brown paper bag to keep it clean. If you are concerned about the smell or mess, you may also freeze or fridge all of your compostable food materials.^[9]
   • The outdoor collection bin is emptied by city workers. If you live in an apartment building, you may be required to share this outdoor collection bin with other residents.
   • If the city does not provide an indoor composting bin, you can find composting containers at many kitchen supply stores or purchase one online. You can also use takeout containers, food containers, pails with lids, or lined trash cans with lids.
   • Read the guidelines for your city's composting program. Make note of the correct procedures and your city’s approved compostable materials.^[10]
4. Collect your compostable materials throughout the week and place them outside on collection. Throughout the week, place your organic materials into your indoor compost bin. You can also collect biodegradable materials in your home office, bathrooms, and bedrooms. When your biodegradable collection bins are full, add the contents to your outdoor compost bin. On your a designated compost pick-up day, leave your outdoor bin at the curb each week. Once the bin is emptied, bring it in from the curb.
   
   • Your city may have specific requirements regarding the placement of the pin.
   • If you live in an area that receives a lot of snow, you may have to shovel a path from the street to your bin.
   • Officials may contact you if you fail to comply with the city’s procedures and rules.^[11]

EditComposting Your Biodegradable Waste at Home

1. Select a composting container. In order to compost in your backyard, you need to build or purchase a composting container. This container should be placed in a shady location that is near a source of water. Types of containers include:
   
   • Homemade Containers: Construct your own round or square composting container out of fence posts and wire mesh siding, fence posts and lattice, or brick and wood. Build a structure that is at least three feet wide and three feet deep.^[12]
   • Compost Bins: This product, also known as a compost digester, is enclosed on the top and sides. Its open bottom sits directly on the ground. While these bins are small and inexpensive, it is difficult to turn the compost pile inside of them.
   • Compost Tumblers: These rotating composting containers are the most effective and mobile bins on the market. The rotating drum makes it easy to turn and aerate the compost. The drum also serves as insulation, which keeps the composting materials at the ideal temperature year round. The center paddle helps to aerate the compost and prevents the materials from clumping.^[13]
2. Layer your organic materials inside the container. Begin your compost pile in late spring or summer when it is hot and slightly damp. Organic materials must be placed thoughtfully and carefully in the compost pile. A well laid out compost pile will promote drainage and aeration while deterring clumping and rotting. Place your biodegradable materials in thin, even layers.
   
   • Place brown waste, specifically twigs and straw, on the bottom of the pile to encourage drainage. This layer should be a few inches thick.
   • Add alternating layers of moist and dry green and brown waste. Keep this layers thin to avoid clumping. Moist items include food scraps, food waste, coffee grounds, and tea bags. Dry items include straw, twigs, leaves, and untreated sawdust.^[14]
3. Maintain a moist, covered, and well turned compost pile. In order for the microorganisms to breakdown the green and brown waste into compost, the pile must remain moist, warm, and well aerated. Monitor your pile frequently.
   
   • Your compost should maintain the moisture of a damp sponge. If it is too dry, add water to the pile with a hose or let the rain water it naturally. If it is too wet, your organic materials may rot instead of compost.
   • Your compost pile should retain an interior temperature between 135° to 160° F. You can monitor the temperature with a thermometer. Covering your compost pile with a lid, carpet squares, wood, or a tarp will help regulate the temperature of the pile.^[15]
   • In order for the compost process to work, your pile must have a sufficient amount of air. Add oxygen to your pile by turning it every two to four weeks. You can turn the pile with a pitchfork or rotate your compost tumbler.^[16]
4. Add green manure and bury new materials ten inches down and turn the compost. When your compost pile is well developed, you can introduce new green waste and green manure to the compost. These products add nitrogen to the pile. The nitrogen serves as a catalyst for the composting process.
   
   • Use a pitchfork to add and mix in green manure to your pile. Acceptable green manure items include grass clippings, buckwheat, wheatgrass, and clover.
   • Bury new vegetable, fruit, and food scraps at least ten inches below the top of the pile.^[17]
5. Add the finished compost to your garden. Once the material at the bottom of your pile is a rich dark brown, the compost is ready for use. This can take anywhere from two months to two years.
   
   • Open up your composting container and empty its contents onto the ground.
   • Add the compost to your garden, vegetable patch, or orchard.^[18]

EditExploring Alternative Methods of Recycling Your Biodegradable Materials

1. Subscribing to a private composting service. If your city does not offer a public composting service, search for a private composting business in your area. Select a business and a plan that is within your price range, meets your needs, and fits into your schedule. Once you sign-up for the service, the business will typically provide you with a composting bin or bags.
   
   • Many services will take the full bin and leave you with a sanitized bin.
   • If you do not produce much food waste, find a service that will pick up your compostable materials every two weeks or once a month.
   • If you are interested in using compost in your yard, select a service that provides you with compost for free or at a discounted rate.^[19]
2. Bring your compostable materials to a composting collection site. Instead of paying for a public or private composting service, bring your organic materials to a designated biodegradable waste drop off site. These sites may be operated by the city, private organizations, or nonprofits. Before bringing your materials to one of these locations, make sure all of the items in your compost bin or bags adhere to the site’s standards.
   
   • Find these drop off sites through a quick internet search.
   • Instead of paying for your city’s composting service, you may be allowed to bring biodegradable materials to a drop-off site yourself.^[20]
3. Donate your organic materials to local farmers or community gardens. Giving your biodegradable materials away is an excellent ways to support the farmers and systems that produce food for your community. Contact farmers and community gardens in your area to see if they accept organic donations.
   
   • This is a great option for business and restaurants looking to cut costs while giving back to the community.
   • Some farmers and gardens may already have drop off boxes for composting donations.^[21]

EditVideo

EditThings You'll Need

• Compost bin
• Compost guidelines
• Countertop compost container
• Rake
• Hose

EditSources and Citations

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Which Pair Of Animals Are You And Your BFF?

Find out which animal duo sums up your relationship.

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This Eight Cat Picture Test Will Reveal A Deep Truth About You

Let these cats stare into your very soul and tell you something about the person you really are.

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This Adorable Dog Is Living Its Best Life At A Baseball Game

It me.

A lot of people find baseball games boring.

Mitchell Layton / Getty Images

But you wanna know what's definitely not boring? THIS.

CSN / m.mlb.com

Yesterday, two Phillies fans brought their pupper to a spring training game.

CSN / m.mlb.com

And like, just look at this fuzz bucket basking in the sun!

CSN / m.mlb.com

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