INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Copic pens come in a variety of colors and nib sizes, just as the markers do. Pens allow for very precise, thin lines when drawing, and sketch markers allow for slightly thicker, but still precise lines. The beginner artist can always draw in pencil first, then go over the lines with a Copic pen or sketch marker when satisfied with the initial sketch. Alternatively, you can use a rubber stamp to create the outline of a design, then color in the image using Copic markers. You can use either end of the Copic marker when coloring. Move the marker in small circles over the area you want to fill in order to cut down on visible lines and streaks. Experiment with using either end of the pen to find out which one works for you when coloring. When adding dimension, be sure to pick a color one or two shades darker than the base color, but still in the same color family. If you don't know where shading would look best, start with the outer edges of the design. In the space where the darker and lighter shades intersect, color the area with the lighter shade of marker, using circular motions. Copic markers work extremely well for blending, but you must blend while the colors are still relatively wet in order to create a seamless color transition. Try using different colors in different areas, practicing blending in each section. Allow the paper to dry completely before touching, framing, or handling in any way. If you plan on using colored pencils to add depth to an image, apply them as the last layer. The Copic marker's alcohol-based ink can't absorb into the paper through layers of pencil.

SUMMARY: Draw the outline of your design with a Copic pen or sketch marker. Begin coloring with the lightest shade of your choice. Add in the darker shades to give depth or volume when coloring illustrations. Use the base shade to blend the two colors together. Continue coloring until you complete the illustration.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: With addiction, you need to approach the topic from a place of love. You want your family member to feel supported, not alienated, by you. Ultimately, your goal should be to get them the help they need so they do not steal from you again. You are probably angry and hurt by your family member. It is okay to express this, as your family member needs to know their addiction hurts others. However, remember your family member likely feels guilt and shame on their own end. Come at it from a place of love. For example, do not say, "I'm furious that you took my medication." Instead, say something like, "I love and care about you. I'm angry you took my medication, but I'm also concerned by the behavior. I'm worried you have an addiction." Blame-oriented language can make the person feel guilty. While your family member should take responsibility for treating their addiction, a physical addiction itself is largely beyond someone's control. You do not want to say things that sound like you're blaming the person. This will only increase negative feelings and make your loved one less likely to seek help. It can be helpful to use "I"-statements here, as they are designed to reduce blame. They start with "I feel...", after which you immediately state your feelings. From there, you state the actions that led to those feelings, and explain why you feel the way you do. For example, "I feel hurt that you took my medication without asking because it's a huge betrayal of my trust." Getting angry in these situations, no matter how emotionally taxing they are, will make things worse. Remember, you want to help your family member confront their addiction and get help. It's best to remain calm to achieve this. Addicts may try to confuse you or deflect blame. They may even deny wrongdoing at first. Be calm and continue to state your case. For example, your family member says, "Maybe you took more than you intended and didn't realize." Respond with something like, "Please do not lie to me. We need to talk this over." You want to end the conversation on a note that allows you both to move forward. Talk to your family member about seeking treatment for addiction. This is vital if your family member has been stealing medication. End the conversation with something like, "I think we should get you treatment so this does not happen again. I love and care about you and I just don't want you getting hurt." Remember to keep your expectations in check. Your loved one might not be willing to make a change right away. They might need some time to think and want to return to the conversation later.

SUMMARY: Express love and concern. Avoid blame or guilt-tripping. State things in a calm and assertive fashion. Offer to help them get treatment.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Start twisting the ring gently back and forth, while slowly pulling the ring out.

SUMMARY: Place your index finger gently on the stuck ring, and thumb under.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Get into your comfiest pajamas and wrap yourself in your softest robe. Sit in your favorite chair and pick up that book you've been halfway through for the last three months and finally let yourself relax and read. If books aren't really your thing, pick up your favorite magazine, newspaper, or blog and catch up on some lit. When pampering yourself, you don't have to ask anyone's opinion on what to watch, or argue with anyone about your pick. Instead, watch the movie you've been wanting to watch for ages that keeps getting vetoed by your partner or family. Watch a chick-flick without guilt, or a documentary without being afraid you're going to bore your friends. This day is all about you after all. . Meditation is about releasing your worries and allowing yourself to mentally decompress. Find a quiet, calm place, sit down, and close your eyes. Focus on your breathing and let your worries float away from you. If meditating isn't really working, practice some breathing exercises. These can help you to release the tension that has built up in your body and will help you to destress. Thinking about the things that you are really passionate about can often get swept aside in the madness of the present. When pampering yourself, set aside sometime to consider your life and what you hope to attain. Create a bucket list, or revisit a past bucket list that you made and consider how your goals have changed (if, indeed, they have). Look in the mirror and list everything about yourself that you love. Tell yourself that you are amazing, and that you deserve to be loved. Think of the things you have accomplished, and the experiences you have had. At the same time, consider the things you would like to improve, without thinking negatively about those things. For example, instead of thinking 'I suck at managing my time", tell yourself, "I am going to work harder to manage my time well", and go buy yourself a fantastic organizer.

SUMMARY:
Put on some comfy clothes and read. Curl up and watch an engaging movie. Try meditating Consider your goals. Practice some self love.