INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Actively listening to someone will help you determine not only what someone is talking about, but potentially why they are talking so much. While some people talk a lot because of egos or aggression, some people talk because they are nervous, want to make friends, or have something on their chest. Knowing why people won't shut up will help you end the conversation gently. Ignoring people, creating conflict, or feigning interest will all create longer conversations. Being polite but honest is usually best. If you know someone is a known talker, and you will have a hard time getting away, state early on that you have somewhere to be. Example: "Great to see you, but I only have a few minutes to talk." When you are at work you often have your best opportunities to get some peace and quiet. Mentioning "that you have a deadline upcoming," you are "trying to focus more on work," or that "I would rather not talk about this at the office" can get you out of long or awkward conversations easily. If someone has a habit of pestering you, consider talking to HR or a supervisor. Example: "Great to see you, but I have only have 5 minutes!" Example: "I have to pick up the kids soon, so I need to run." When you spend most of your time with the same person, you will inevitably need some time away from their voice. Most likely, they need time away from yours, too. Find activities together, like reading, movies, or mediation, that require silence. "I need some time to relax and think, let's talk in an hour." Spending some alone time will allow both of you to focus on what is really important, and be able to talk about it later. Example: "Today was the longest day! I could use a few seconds for some peace and quiet." We all love our parents, but they have a knack for talking our ears off. While you should always be respectful, there are a couple ways to get free without causing family drama. Sending letters or emails, and inviting them to do the same, will help you catch up on your own time. Be brief talking about problems or stress as many parents will want to know every last thing that is wrong in their child's life. Don't be a brick wall -- give them some details! If you are sullen and silent, many parents will try to keep talking to figure out what your problem is. Communicate regularly. It may seem counter productive, but giving periodic updates to your parents can prevent an information overload if you only talk once a month or year. Example: "I'm so glad we had the chance to catch up Mom, but I have to run. I'll call you soon!" Getting a bully to leave you alone can be tough, but getting them to shut up is often as simple as eliminating their ammo. Laugh at their insults, ignore them, and resist the urge to get into a shouting match. Being coy or sarcastic takes the rug out from under their feet. "Would your poor mother approve of that language?" "Someone watched one too many R-rated movies," or "Sheesh, did someone treat you poorly as a child?" are sarcastic, but resist being too hostile.

SUMMARY: Listen for a reasonable amount of time. Set a time limit on the conversation. Getting a colleague to stop talking. Getting a friend or significant other to stop talking. Get your parents to stop talking. Get a bully to stop talking.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: If you do not have a canner, you can make your own. Find a pot or saucepan that is large enough to hold the jars. There should also be room for an inch of water above the jars. Place a washcloth or towel at the bottom of the pot before you put the jars in. This will keep the jars from directly touching the metal of the pot. Canning time varies according to the type of canner you have and the altitude of your location. Be sure to check your canner's instructions. If you are using a boiling water canner, these guidelines should help. For 01,000 feet (0.0304.8m) above sea level, cook for 10 minutes. For 1,0013,000 feet (305.1914.4m), cook for 15 minutes. For 3,0016,000 feet (914.71,828.8m), cook for 20 minutes. If you are above 6,000 feet (1,828.8m), cook for 25 minutes. If you are using a dial gauge pressure canner or a weighted gauge pressure canner, you will need about 8 minutes. Clarify with the instruction manual of your canner.

SUMMARY: Place jars in a canner, leaving 12 inches (2.55.1cm) of water above the jars. Calculate the canning time.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: If you really want your room to look different and have some money to spend, you can buy new furniture. You don't have to replace everythinga new dresser, desk, or armchair can make a big impact. Choose statement pieces that match the vibe you want to create. A sleek white desk would be a great addition to a modern room while a brocade armchair is best for a more traditional space. If you're on a budget, check garage sales and thrift stores for second-hand furniture. You may also be able to find free pieces online through sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Even if you can't afford to buy new furniture, you can still make it look different. Stick with bright white for a chic, modern style or paint it your favorite hue to add a pop of color. Be sure to remove the hardware first, put the furniture on a drop cloth, and use paint formulated for whatever surface you're working with. You can even add new hardware, like pretty drawer pulls, to further change the look of your furniture. One of the easiest ways to make over your room is to rearrange it! If your bed is in a corner, move it to the center of the room against a wall. If your desk is on the west wall, move it to the east wall. Just be sure to keep the flow of the space in mind and make sure you can easily access the door. You can create little alcoves or nooks dedicated to your favorite activity. For instance, place a comfy chair, a lamp, and a blanket in the corner for a cozy reading nook. Or, set up a gaming chair and mini fridge near your TV if you love to play video games. To easily give your room a new look, splurge on a new comforter and sheets. Pick a large-scale pattern for a bold look or a solid color for a more traditional feel. Add a few decorative pillows and set a folded blanket across the bottom fourth of your bed for an upscale vibe. Choose a pattern or color that you love and that works well with your furniture and accessories. If you can afford it, go for sheets with a high thread count and an eiderdown comforter. You'll love lounging on your new bedding. Your bed is the staple piece of your room so adding a headboard or swapping out an existing one can make your room look totally different. Choose a style that reflects the rest of your space, such as one with curves for a feminine room or a studded headboard if you have an edgier vibe. You can create tons of cool headboards yourself, like an upholstered headboard, a faux leather headboard, or even a light-up headboard! A canopy can easily give your room a whole different feel. If you're the romantic type, this might be just the thing for you. Opt for a traditional four-poster canopy or add some whimsy with a chandelier-style canopy. White, gauzy tulle creates a soft, feminine look, while rich brocade gives off a sophisticated vibe.

SUMMARY:
Swap out your old furniture for new pieces for a dramatic change. Paint your furniture for a quick and easy makeover. Rearrange your furniture to create a whole new look. Swap out your bedding for an instant upgrade. Add a headboard to make your bed a focal point. Put a canopy over your bed for a romantic accent.