5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used RV

5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used RV

Julia   

Buying an RV can be a scary experience. The options are endless and the knowledge required to fish through it all can be overwhelming. When you start looking at used RVs, the questions of what to look for double as you shop.

While buying used never comes with a guarantee, there are some things to look for to make you feel a little more confident in your buying experience.

1. Water damage

This is the most important thing to look for in a used RV as water damage can lead to other major problems like structure issues and hidden mold. Often times if you look closely enough, you will be able to spot the signs.

As you look through the RV, check for the following:

1. Water spots - These can be found anywhere, especially along ceilings and near bunks. Take a small flashlight to look into cabinets where they may be harder to spot.
2. Smell - Mildew and mold have a very prominent smell, so keep your nose open from the moment you walk in. As you look around, you will get more used to the smell, so be sure to pay attention the second you step into the home.
3. Fresh paint - Be sure to question fresh paint, especially if it is just certain sections. It may be the owner trying to hide some important signs.

2. Cracked tanks

Because they are under the RV, some may forget to look the holding tanks over thoroughly. Make sure you use a flashlight and look closely for any signs of cracks, wear, or leaks in the freshwater, gray water, and black water tanks. These would be unwelcome surprises on your first trip out.

3. Sun and salt damage

Look around the entire outside of the RV from roof to bottom, checking for signs of sun or salt damage. These exposed sections can lead to rust and leaks quickly so it's important to decide how much damage there is and if it would be worth the cost to fix it. Don't be afraid to climb up the ladders and crawl under the rig.

4. Tires

Tire blowouts are a very scary thing when RVing, so having good tires is a must. Check the dates on the tires and look them over for excessive wear. If they are older or worn, weigh the upfront cost of brand-new tires with the purchase price to decide if it will be worth it.

5. Mileage versus age

There is a fine balance between the mileage in comparison to the age of the RV. If the mileage is very high, consider it as you would a used vehicle purchase. Over 100,000 miles would clearly indicate more potential maintenance and a shorter overall life. If, however, the mileage is strangely low for the age of the RV (say twenty years old with 5,000 miles), then it is important to ask about its storage. Sometimes, lower miles and older ages can lead to other maintenance problems as RVs are meant to be used, not just sat in a garage.

Purchasing a used RV can definitely save you a lot of money as long as you do it smartly. Being aware of the potential risks and upfront costs is your best defense against buying a lemon or a money pit. Take your flashlight, wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and don't be afraid to look closely at every part of the rig and you are sure to come out with a great deal.

Dangerous Herbicidal Effects on People

Dangerous Herbicidal Effects on People

Julia   

Herbicides affect people in positive and negative ways. Herbicides help farmers produce more crops, which increases the food supply. Also, herbicides remove unsightly weeds and help gardeners protect their ornamental plants. However, herbicides may contain active ingredients that can cause human health problems when these chemicals get into food and water supplies.

While herbicides are designed to kill plants, these chemicals can have harmful effects on humans. To develop herbicides, compounds are tested for their harmful effects on plants. Some research has been done on the effects of some herbicides on humans, but more research needs to be done. Therefore, gardeners should use the minimum necessary dosage of herbicide possible to minimize human health risks.

Roundup is one of the most common herbicides and has been the subject of controversy. The Roundup herbicide can inhibit human placenta cells. This characteristic can encourage the likelihood that women suffer from miscarriages when exposed to this herbicide, according to the Third World Network. Research in 2008 by the University of California San Francisco found that Roundup can also cause abnormal birth rates, which has caused Europe to ban herbicides. The chemical atrazine found in Roundup interferes with enzyme production and steroid synthesis.

Water Poisoning

The journey of herbicides from farmlands and gardens to our taps begins with soil erosion.

As rain falls and land washes away, herbicides are carried into rivers, lakes, and, eventually, into the human water supply. This process not only threatens aquatic ecosystems but also poses a direct risk to human health. Alachlor, for instance, a herbicide once widely used, has been linked to serious health issues affecting the eyes, kidneys, liver, and spleen and is also known to be carcinogenic.

Another common herbicide, Atrazine, disrupts cardiovascular and reproductive systems. Endothall, yet another chemical used to control aquatic plants, is notorious for causing stomach and intestinal problems. These examples underscore the need for stringent regulations on herbicide usage, especially near water bodies, to ensure they do not contribute to water poisoning.

Toxicity and Application

While many herbicides are deemed safe under controlled conditions, their toxicity cannot be underestimated.

The key to minimizing risk lies in responsible application and adherence to safety guidelines detailed on product labels. These labels are a vital source of information, offering insights into the herbicide's potential side effects and the necessary precautions to avoid exposure.

For instance, certain herbicides require applicators to wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin contact, as they can cause severe rashes upon exposure. Moreover, in cases where herbicides come into contact with the eyes, immediate flushing with water is crucial to prevent lasting damage. Such measures are not mere recommendations but essential practices to safeguard health and mitigate the risks associated with herbicide toxicity.

Residual Herbicides

Some of the most dangerous herbicides are ones that are residual. Unlike the herbicides that break down, residual herbicides can remain in the soil. Children playing outside can get herbicide-filled dirt on them, which may result in short-term or long-term health problems. However, water tends to wash these residual herbicides more into the soil, diluting them.

The use of herbicides is a double-edged sword, offering the promise of agricultural efficiency and the peril of environmental degradation. As society grapples with these challenges, the focus must shift towards sustainable practices that balance the benefits of herbicide use with the imperative of environmental stewardship. This includes the development and promotion of herbicides that are not only effective but also break down harmlessly in the environment, reducing the risk of water poisoning and soil erosion. Furthermore, education and awareness about safe application practices are crucial in minimizing the health risks associated with herbicide exposure.

Herbicides, while instrumental in modern agriculture and gardening, bring with them a host of environmental and health concerns that cannot be ignored. The issue of water poisoning, compounded by the dangers of soil erosion and the inherent toxicity of these chemicals, calls for a concerted effort to regulate and manage herbicide use. By prioritizing safe application practices and advocating for the development of environmentally friendly herbicides, we can protect our health and preserve the natural world for future generations. The balance between reaping the benefits of herbicides and ensuring the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants is delicate, but with informed action and collective responsibility, it is achievable.

The 5 Most Common Types of Colostomy Pouches

The 5 Most Common Types of Colostomy Pouches

Julia   

If you have a colostomy, then you know that there are several different types of pouches that you can use. These pouches are essential to colostomies because it is what allow the stool to be discarded through the opening in the abdomen. Deciding on which type of colostomy pouch you have or should use can be a difficult choice because there are a few different types.

Here is the basic information about the types of colostomy pouches you could use, which can help you decide which is right for your personal needs and situation.

Open-ended pouches

Open-ended pouches are one of the most common types of pouches and are one of the easiest to empty. The open-ended pouch has an opening at the end from which the stool can drain. A clamp is usually used to close the open end of the pouch so that it is secure and protects you from waste seeping out.

The open-ended pouch is used mostly by people who have had ascending or transverse colostomies. The ease of emptying the waste in an open-ended pouch is beneficial to people with those types of colostomies because of the unpredictability of fecal matter amounts and consistency. Someone who has a transverse or ascending colostomy might have loose stool one day and harder stool the next, so the ease of being able to drain the content as needed is crucial.

Close-ended pouches

Close-ended pouches are removed and then thrown away in the trashcan once the pouch is full. These types of pouches are mostly used by people who have a descending or sigmoid colostomy, mostly because they have harder stool output.

The close-ended pouches are basically disposable, which allows someone to use them one time and throw them away instead of reusing them by emptying them. The drawback to this type of pouch is that you will need a new pouch each time you change it, which can be more costly.

Cut-to-fit pouches

Pre-cut or cut-to-fit pouches for colostomies are really nice for people who are unable to find the pouch that is the right size for their needs. These pouches already have holes cut into them, which are centered on top of the stoma. Some of the other pouches are cut-to-fit, which means you can cut them according to the size of your stoma.

The cut-to-fit is usually given after surgery because the size of the stoma will decrease as it heals, which can help you save money during this time instead of buying a new size each week. These are also great for people who are susceptible to infections and irritation because you can cut the pouch bigger if there is an infection or inflammation near the stoma.

Two-piece pouches

Two-piece pouches contain two important components of a colostomy, which are the adhesive flange and the pouch. The adhesive will stay in place as you remove the pouch and put a new one back on. These are great because they can stop skin irritation since they are not attached to the skin directly but are instead held on by the adhesive.

These types of pouches are really good for those who have sensitive skin or those who have to change their pouches often. Since you only have to change the pouch and not the adhesive every time, you can cut down on the irritation to your skin, which can decrease infection. The two-piece is also good for people on the go or who travel often since it will take less time to change your pouch.

One-piece pouches

One-piece pouches for colostomies are sold as the adhesive barrier and pouch all in one. The skin barrier is the piece of adhesive that attaches to the skin and surrounds the stoma.

The one-piece allows you to not have to worry about two different pieces for your colostomy, but it comes with a drawback. Each time you change your pouch, you will have to discard the adhesive as well and put a new one on the stoma. So essentially, you have to discard the adhesive even if it is still in good condition because it comes as one unit.

This type of pouch might also lead to skin irritation because you will have to change both parts of the pouch each time.

You should always talk to your doctor about which type of pouch would work best for you, depending on the colostomy you have had. It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor before you change what type of pouch you are using to prevent infection or skin irritations. Hopefully, this guide will help you figure out which type of pouch would be more beneficial to your personal and professional needs.

The Difference Between Herbalists and Doctors

The Difference Between Herbalists and Doctors

Julia   

Do I get teased for my occupation? Yes. In fact, almost every day. Granted, the majority of people are just having fun with some good-natured teasing, but I do have to deal with the occasional jerk who thinks I believe that I'm better than them somehow.

I am an herbalist. I'm not a doctor, a mad scientist (although that would be really cool, you have to admit), or even someone with a formal education above a high school level. I've never been to college simply because college wouldn't necessarily help me in my field of work. Sure, I could major in human anatomy or botany, but what I have learned is that it's not a piece of paper that would make me a good herbalist. Time and experience would be things that take me further in my career. Listening to people's stories and hearing what they have to offer are the things that will make me a better herbalist as I grow and learn.

An herbalist is not a doctor. I am fully aware of this fact. The problem is some people either don't know the difference themselves or think we (myself and other herbalists like me) don't see the difference. I think I speak for any herbalist (with a sound mind, that is) in saying that when you're an herbalist, the fact that you aren't a doctor is very clear to you every day. Sometimes in good ways and sometimes in bad ways, just like being a doctor has its perks, and sometimes it just doesn't.

You see, Doctors have a diploma. They spend a lot of money and time and even more effort to obtain their license, while an herbalist will read book after book after book and do research to find clinical trials to get his/her information for someone who may need it. An herbalist will listen to customers who walk into their store with stories of their own. While a doctor will spend anywhere from eight to ten years in college, an herbalist is always in college. We never stop researching. We never stop learning, and every day that we work, we learn something new and exciting to add to our store of knowledge.

Another major difference between a doctor and an herbalist is that a doctor will pick one field of medicine and stick with it for the rest of their career. An herbalist needs to know everything he/she can about every possible subject of the human body and how different plants affect different aspects of the human anatomy. They'll also need to get any and all information they are able to on what herbs counteract with what medicines and which one could, in theory.

An herbalist may have a harder time diagnosing someone than a doctor could. While I do know a few really good herbalists who can identify several different kinds of ailments, an herbalist is still pretty limited since he/she can't just run labs on everyone who walks through our doors. Most of us know the basics, though; if there's fever, there's probably an infection, bread-like smells are yeast, strep leaves white stuff in your throat, people with mono are photosensitive, etc. Some of us even have training that is comparable to nursing skills, which is always handy. I've known a few nurses who have later become herbalists, whether by chance or due to preference. It's a bit of a learned skill that I'm still trying to get the hang of, so more often than not, I'm saying things like, "You should talk to your doctor about your concerns and see what he or she says first."

Another major difference between a doctor and an herbalist is that doctors also prescribe medication. A herbalist will suggest alternative medicine using the DSHEA (Aka The Dietary Supplement Health Act of 1994) as a reference and guide for what we can and can't say.

We aren't allowed to say things like, "This will cure you." We say things like, "This may treat your symptoms," or "Studies have shown that..." or "Y" has been used for "X" number of years to help treat your ailment and ailments like yours." you might even hear the occasional, "Now, I knew a person who tried this supplement to help with a problem similar to yours. They had some good results, so you could try this too."

An herbalist realizes that he/she has a lot more restraints on what he/she can and can't say to people. We certainly can't give "doctor's orders" to anyone. Even if we know for a fact that rest is the best thing for someone, we were just speaking with.

Doctors don't get money for you taking their prescriptions (That would be the pharmaceutical companies or pharmaceutical representatives). Some herbalist do get paid for buying their products in some cases. For example, Jordan Rubin, the founder of Garden of Life, gets a bit of money every time someone buys a Garden of Life multivitamin, protein powder, green food supplement, or any other product made by the Garden of Life company.

In other cases, such as my own, we work in a GNC, a Vitamin Shoppe, Vitamin World, or our own little store that we were able to scrape together in order to educate and help the people of our community. Depending on the store an herbalist works for, they may or may not get a commission for the products inside the store, but they're still not getting paid for products that they have formulated and are now advertising like it's the "Best Cure-All EVER!" like some herbalists do.

We never forget that we're not doctors, and even if we did there are PLENTY of people who love to remind us that we aren't so there's not often a chance for an herbalist to let his/her head get that big.

How to Turn Ordinary Shoes into Formal Shoes

How to Turn Ordinary Shoes into Formal Shoes

Julia   

Face it: formal occasions are costly at best. From having to buy a dress to having hair and makeup done to purchasing accessories or jewelry, formals are fabulous but expensive. You can cut the cost in many ways, from making your own dress to borrowing jewelry. You can even use shoes from your existing wardrobe after you doctor them up a little bit.

The shoes, of course, must be dressy-looking to begin with. Sneakers or flip-flops, no matter how much you dress them up, will not make the cut. Choose a pair of heels or mules, and let's get busy.

Something as simple as a bobby pin can help you turn your ordinary heels into works of art. Simply use contact cement to glue a jewel, faux or real, to the top front of the bobby pin. Slide the bobby pin onto the top of the shoe in the center. Snip excess parts of the bobby pin with wire cutters, and you're good to go.

Maybe you have a decent pair of high heels, but there are scuff marks on them. Use fabric paints to make them new again. Choose fabric paint in silver or gold, then use an ordinary paint-by-number brush to apply the paint to the shoes. Pat it on for more depth, or smooth it on for a sleek, sparkly look. When the paint is wet, it doesn't look that glittery, but when it dries, it'll sparkle like a million bucks.

The fabric paints come in other nice varieties, like pearl-look and metallics. These paints can be applied to just about any shoe surface and can be combined with other designs to give an overall look of elegance.

Glue appliques onto the heels or toe area of the shoes. Appliques are available in all sorts of styles and colors nowadays, and most are very reasonably priced particularly small ones. Hot glue them on if you're in a hurry, or use fabric glue or another epoxy to hold the appliques in place. Choose ones with gold or silver designs that'll give an elegant look to your shoes.

There are all sorts of gold, silver, bronze, and other metallic objects which can be glued onto shoes. Look around a craft store to find a selection of these objects that might be suitable for shoes. Choose flat creations that will attach easily.

Craft stores also have a huge variety of faux jewels, from teeny-tiny ones to larger shapes. Use the jewels, with fabric glue, to make any design you wish. Or, look for the designs already made. They generally are on a piece of paper that displays the jewel designs. Just remove the entire design and put it on the shoes. The diamond-look ones are fabulous, but you can also choose from shades of blue, emerald, or even red. Or, eliminate the jewels altogether and opt for a bow placed at the front opening of the top of the shoe.

Combine techniques to make even more formal shoes. Paint the shoes with glitter paints, for example, and then use different jewel colors to outline the heel. Or, use the bobby pin design along with the faux jewels outlining the shoe opening. There are many combinations you can try. You'll save so much on shoes that you'll be able to buy the ultimate accessories and gown.

5 Cleaning Products I Will Never Buy

5 Cleaning Products I Will Never Buy

Julia   

There are a lot of cleaning products on the market. Most grocery stores have at least two aisles devoted to keeping a clean home. Many are overpriced. Several are unnecessary. And quite a few cause me to cringe at the idea of having them near my children.

But the products that really bother me are the ones designed for a "band-aid" effect.

These are the products that give the illusion of a clean home without actually having to clean anything. Note that each of these products is designed to make cleaning convenient, but let us take a minute to look at how clean they really keep your home:

Automatic toilet bowl cleaners

These products are not only filled with harsh chemicals, but the area of surface they cover is very minimal. Few reach under the toilet rim and I have not seen any that touch the actual toilet seat.

Febreze Fabric and Air

Though this product may trap and eliminate odors, it does not actually clean the source of the odor. Once you properly clean that source, this freshening element no longer becomes necessary. If you are looking to fill your home with nice scents, consider using more frugal, natural, and effective methods.

Pledge Fabric Sweeper

These are very convenient for quick fur pick-ups, but they may cause you to vacuum your furniture far less frequently than you should. This product barely touches the surface and does nothing for dust mites, dust, dirt, or small particles that reside within the fabric.

Powdered carpet fresheners

Not only can these cause a lot of harm to your vacuum filters, but they can quickly ruin your carpets by creating build-up. Much like Febreze, carpet fresheners only mask odors temporarily and do not actually clean the fabric. Consider simple carpet cleaning methods instead.

Arm & Hammer Refrigerator Deodorizers

We have all refrigerated a potent pasta dish or found a buried rotten potato, but if your refrigerator smells so strong that you need continual freshening, perhaps it is time to focus on a deep refrigerator clean and regular upkeep.

Some use these items for freshening in between regular cleaning, but consider whether or not you rely on them as a crutch. It may not be a conscious thought, but as long as these products give you the feeling of being clean, you may be more likely to let your cleaning routine slip.

If you use any of these products, I challenge you to take a break from them and see if it encourages you to clean more often. If so, perhaps you need to alter your regular cleaning schedule to ensure that your home is actually fresh and sanitary and does not just give the illusion of clean.

Do you use any of these products? Do you feel they help or hinder your cleaning process?

Tips for Picking the Right Travel Backpack

Tips for Picking the Right Travel Backpack

Julia   

Choosing the right travel backpack is essential for a comfortable, hassle-free journey. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first big trip, selecting the perfect backpack can significantly impact your travel experience. This article delves into practical tips for picking the right travel backpack, ensuring your adventures are nothing short of amazing.

The first step in choosing the right travel backpack is understanding your specific needs. Consider the type of travel you'll be doing: are you backpacking across Europe, going on a weekend getaway, or embarking on a wilderness adventure? The duration of your trip, the climate of your destination, and the activities you plan to do all play crucial roles in determining the right backpack. For city travelers, a sleek, compact backpack might suffice, while outdoor adventurers may require something more rugged and spacious. Acknowledging your travel style and needs will guide you in selecting a backpack that's not just good but perfect for you.

When I travel, I wear my backpack nearly everywhere. It's stuffed full of everything I need for a trip -- from spare shoes to a tent. I wear it in cities and on 15-mile hikes alike. It has become a part of me. Getting that comfortable wearing a backpack requires some thinking and practice. Here's how I do it -- my methods should be able to help you swap your suitcase for a backpack.

Figure Out How You Like to Travel

Will you actually hike and camp with your backpack? Or will it function as a wearable suitcase? Answer this question before you proceed to step two. It's important to be honest here: Sure, it seems cool to paint yourself as an extreme sports adventurer, but if you're really not, you'll get the wrong gear.

Don't Buy a Backpack Because Your Friends Have the Same One

Every person is different, and you need to try before you buy. Find an outdoor store with good salespeople: Explain your plans, your destinations, and what you plan to do. If you find the right salespeople, they'll have you try multiple backpacks. They'll help you make adjustments to dial in the fit, and they'll even load it with some weight so you can see how they feel. This is essential -- otherwise, you risk heading abroad with an ill-fitting backpack. And it will be too late to do anything about it.

Look for the Right Features

If you have some hardcore outdoor plans, you might want to add daisy-chain gear to your pack using built-in loops like those on my Kelty pack. You might need a slot for a hydration pack, which I consider an absolute must for long hikes. If you're not planning to hit the outdoors, you won't need these features as much.

Load Your Backpack Right

I load my pack full of lightweight, quick-drying clothes that resist odors. I particularly like bamboo-cotton sports clothes (shirts, shorts, underwear), though there are even some very cool shirts made with recycled coffee grounds. And I don't just toss them in; I pack everything into compressible stuff sacks that keep it all organized. I also bring as little as possible -- just two pairs of shoes, and I make sure that all the clothes can handle multiple wearings without getting stained and stinky.

Get Your Body Ready

Don't just show up at the airport and hope for the best. Load your backpack as close to your travel setup as possible, then take it to your local hiking trails and practice. Get comfortable with the load. Get to know the many straps, adjustments, and compartments of your pack.