If you're eating genuine hardtack, and would like to consume it in a historically authentic method, you'll need to soak the hardtack for 1 or 2 hours. Submerge as many pieces of hardtack as you like in a bowl filled with tap water, and let it soak. Keep an eye on the hardtack as it soaks. Pull it out of the water once it's softened to the touch, but before it's started to dissolve. For a more flavorful hardtack, soak it in a large mug full of hot coffee. Dry hardtack is not meant to be eaten quickly. Nibble and gnaw at the edges and corners of the hardtack, then eat the small bits that break off in your mouth. Think of the hardtack as if it were a bread version of beef jerky. Work through the food slowly and don't bite off too much at once, or you'll be chewing 1 bite for 15 minutes. Hardtack needs to be both flavored and softened before being eaten. Frying the hardtack in bacon grease can both flavor and soften it. Add about 2 tablespoons (30mL) of bacon grease to a skillet, and heat it on medium-high until it starts to sizzle. Then drop in 3 or 4 pieces of hardtack. Cook the hardtack for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the hardtack has absorbed enough grease to be slightly spongy. Since hardtack is essentially a thick, hard water cracker, it can be eaten in the same way that many water crackers are eaten. Top the hardtack with a creamy cheese like brie or gouda, and add your favorite fruit jam or jelly. Bite into the hardtack gingerly at first. Despite its soft toppings, the hardtack itself will be tough to gnaw through. If you'd rather have the hardtack break apart easily in your mouth, soak it in water for 5 minutes before adding the jam and cheese. For a sweet take on eating hardtack, use your hands to break up 1 or 2 pieces of hardtack over a large bowl. Aim for chunks about 1 inch (2.5cm) wide. Add about 2 tablespoons (30mL) of melted butter and 1 tablespoon (15mL) of brown sugar to the bowl. Stir the ingredients together until the brown sugar has melted. If you have whiskey on hand, add about 2 ounces (57g) to the hardtack and sugar mixture. Then, use your spoon to stir all of the ingredients together. The end result should be a thick, chunky "pudding."

Summary: Soak the hardtack in water for 2 hours until it becomes spongy. Gnaw on a chunk of hardtack for 20-30 minutes if you'd rather not soak it. Fry a few pieces of hardtack in bacon grease for added flavor. Top the hardtack with jam and cheese in you prefer not to fry it. Crumble hardtack with butter and brown sugar for a dessert-like option.

In order to unclog the drain from inside the dishwasher, you need to remove the bottom rack. This way you will be able to access the drain, catch basin, and filter. Always make sure the power is fully disconnected before you begin working on the dishwasher. Using a screwdriver, remove the drain catch and filter that is typically located in the center of the bottom of the dishwasher. You can consult your owner's manual in order to locate and remove the filter. Once the filter and drain catch have been removed, you should be able to see down the drain. Remove any clogs from the drain using a straightened wire hanger or auger. In order to remove any additional debris, grease, or scum from the drain, you can use a baking soda and vinegar mixture to flush out the drain. Pour 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of vinegar down the drain. Alternatively, you could use a commercial drain cleaner, but these can contain harsh chemicals that may remain in your dishwasher for some time. The baking soda and vinegar will help to break up any clogs that may remain in the drain. After 10-15 minutes, pour hot water down the drain to help remove the mixture along with any remaining debris. Once you have unclogged the drain, reconnect the dishwasher and run it on a normal cycle. The dishwasher should now drain properly and water should no longer pool in the bottom of the machine.

Summary: Remove the bottom rack from the dishwasher. Unscrew the drain catch and filters. Use a straightened wire hanger to remove the clog. Pour a baking soda and vinegar mixture down the drain. Let the mixture sit in the dishwasher for 10-15 minutes. Reconnect and run the dishwasher on a normal cycle.

Choose between a classic pair of knee-high riding boots or a daring pair of fitted over-the-knee suede boots. Wear some tights or add a pair of cozy knit socks to your riding boots for extra warmth. Let the tops of the socks peek out above the boots for a cozy, layered look. For example, you could pair some charcoal suede over-the-knee boots with a black fitted turtleneck and a burgundy sleeveless dress. These shoes are a popular fall staple, perfect for pairing with any length of dress, from summer dresses to maxi dresses. Choose a sleek leather pair for instant class or a pair in suede for a soft, autumnal texture. For example, you could wear a rust-colored T-shirt dress with a chunky cream-colored cardigan and some tan leather ankle boots. Pairing your summer dresses with pumps instead of sandals will help you stay warm, chic, and fall-appropriate. Go for a pair in a neutral shade, such as black, navy, or taupe, and choose a pair of opaque tights that matches. For example, you could wear a patterned, burgundy summer dress with some black tights and a pair of black pumps. Add a warm gray blazer to finish off the look.
Summary: Go with a pair of tall boots to stay warm and chic. Opt for a classic pair of ankle boots for style and versatility. Trade in your summer sandals for a pair of heels to wear with dresses.