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  • What is the Best Way to Save Money On Baby Formula?

    What is the Best Way to Save Money On Baby Formula?

    It’s a glorious time in your life. The dream you have had as long as you have been a conscious human being it about to be realized. Waiting for your whole life to do something meaningful and the time is now. You are going to be a parent. Maybe even a good parent.

    Back to reality, babies are expensive, needy, and very expensive. On top of that, everything they need is expensive. Diapers, food, clothing, toys, educations, hobbies, entertainment, sports, travel sports, college. It just keeps escalating out of control.

    How can anyone afford a whole other person? Let’s take it one step at a time. First, you want to make sure your new baby has food. For starters, babies like mothers breast milk. That’s easy you make it for free. Unless you don’t, or can’t breastfeed. Then it’s onto formula.

    Like all the other things you are stressing about with your newborn, formula cost is a major concern. I’ve compiled a few easy ways to save some money on your new babies formula. While they may seem minuscule and not worth the time, remember your baby will need a lot. This will add up quickly.

    Samples at the Dr’s Office

    It is a great big marketing world we live in, aggregated with our free market economy, that results in large companies vying for the chance to be your formula supplier. You are going to, for lack of a better word, milk this opportunity. Start by asking your doctor or nurse for samples.  Formula companies know the best way to win over a mothers formula loyalty is to get the doctor to recommend their brand.

    They do this by buying the doctor’s office lunch, telling them why their brand is the best, and giving the office loads of free samples. It’s a simple conversation with your doctor, just ask what they recommend, you will go home with at least 2 weeks worth of free samples.

    Cash the Formula Checks

    Now that you got the free sample from the doctor, look inside for the company insert. It is usually in a plastic pouch. Most discard this but don’t. It is full of goodies. In this pouch will be formula checks that can be used like cash to buy formula. How amazing is this? Before redeeming these, go check out the company’s website. It will be in the info in the plastic pouch. Register with them.

    These products are expensive, the companies know this, and are making a fortune selling it. These formula manufacturers like to make coupons and sample packs available to parents. Once you are linked up online, they will shower you with more coupons, checks and additional incentives on other related baby products.

    After you have tapped the online resources, make a  phone call or send an email reaching out to their customer service department. These companies love positive notes, boast about how much you love their product and how your baby loves them. You will be surprised how willing they will reward your gracious appreciations with some valuable coupons in the mail.

    Social Media

    Take to social media and Facebook. There are thousands and thousands of garage sale, mommy, and swap pages you can comb through and find all sorts of precious and modestly priced baby products. Remember people get a lot of coupons in the mail, even people without babies. Some of them even receive formula samples from brands that they don’t prefer or just don’t like. You will be blown away on the coupons or stockpiles of formula you can get from social media.

    Amazon Mom

    Want to save 20% off of diapers and formula? With Amazon Mom Subscribe & Save subscription for moms you can. Plus they throw in additional $1 to $3 e-coupons. You will get the prime shipping free and Amazon will always match Walmart’s prices. Pit them against each other.  20% off formula and supplies is a massive saving. You will save on formula easily with an Amazon Mom membership.

    Also, you will also get a 15% baby registry discount and your first 30 days is free. There is also the option on Amazon Mom to buy diapers and wipes that are returns or that have damaged packaging for less than the regular price. It’s a moderate risk, but there is the option. Desperate times?

    Dads’ To The Rescue

    There is also another great way to load up on formula before the baby is born. It is a new phenomenon called “the dad shower”. Like a baby shower for moms but a lot more fun. Dads get together around a pool or televised sporting event. The new dad-to-be supplies beer and food. Traditionally pizza or bbq. Invites all his buddies and co-workers, in turn, they all bring a gift of diapers or formula.

    It’s an easy, low key good time,  and very beneficial for new parents. You would be surprised how generous single men without babies are. Also, we have no idea what a baby actually consumes so we tend to grossly overcompensate. Free beer, why not.

  • These Window Treatments Help Keep Your Home at the Perfect Temperature

    These Window Treatments Help Keep Your Home at the Perfect Temperature

    Everyone is struggling with energy cost and keeping their home at the ideal temperature. We have upgraded the AC, got thermo smart-filters, and added a Nest thermostat, but what else needs to be done?  The next step is to reduce the energy loss through the windows. The Department of Energy says “about 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. In cooling seasons, about 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat.” That’s a lot of temperature fluctuation.

    In reality, any type of window treatments will result in energy savings. That’s not quite good enough for us here at goodfind.guru, we want the exact savings. Getting a better idea of the numbers depends on how the attachment is used,  the type of attachment, the season, and of course the climate. Let’s talk about blinds and custom window treatments to help improve your energy use.

    Windows are great and terrible for energy loss in your home. They are terrific in gabbing the suns heat for warmth, but a terrible waste of leaking cooled air, Naturally as you would think, that hurts your energy bill. Windows can increase your energy consumption by up to 20 percent due to the cool or warm air loss. Unacceptable! How do we control this? Let’s take a look at some great options.

    Cellular Shades

    Cellular shades fill a need for window coverings that would reduce consumers’ energy use at a reasonable price.  They started to pop up after the energy crisis of the 70s. They use a  honeycomb shaped cells to trap air. This allows the cellular shades to add a layer of insulation. You will want to use double shades rather than a single for better results. They do have without a doubt,  the highest efficiency value of all window treatments.

    This makes them the best choices for energy efficient window treatments. You will want to use the top-down bottom-up style. This will allow for maximum light control and thermal efficiency. They do this by allowing you to control the amount of sunshine that comes in throughout the day. While the energy savings are terrific, they are an elegant and classic design. So even though they are at a low cost and provide the best thermal results, they still look amazing. Can’t go wrong here.

     Shutters

    Now onto the shutters.  Shutters are installed tightly to the window itself. This results in less of a gap, which adds to their thermal efficiency.  Louvered adjustable panels, with a great custom fitting, are a great way to prevent cooled inside air from escaping to the outside. Shutters in the winter will create a seal to keep your warm air in. This will save you in both the winter and hotter months energy bills.

    Closing your shutters during the summer will block sunlight.  Creating a barrier against the intrusion of that warm, moist and sultry summer air. Plus they look fantastic. Enhancing the aesthetics of your home with a classic and wonderful style. If you are looking for a great way to improve the value of your home, control the outside light, fabulous insulators that will save on your energy bill, as well as look fabulous, just get shutters.

    Its Getting Hot in Here, So Install Solar Shades

    For those of us below the deep south, we need to talk about solar shades. Solar Shades utilize an opaque material that allows you an outside view while still creating an energy efficient barrier against UV rays. With an array of transparencies, even a glorious blackout option, there is a great look for every room in your house. Here in Florida, you will want to install them to the exterior of your home to block UV rays before they penetrate inside.

    Don’t worry about a lack of privacy if you go with solar shades either, they can still give you total privacy from the outside in while giving you a full view from the inside out.

    Onto Window Film

    A great way to save your energy is to add sheets of self-adhering plastic that are applied directly to window glass, like window tint. This is called window film, You can use window film to add decorative touches. Create nice and stunning looks like cracked glass or my favorite,  stained glass windows. Or go hardcore with a dark tint, specifically to block heat transfer and solar gain.

    Energy-efficiency tax credits may even come in to play. You can also get a mirrored look for an additional privacy layer. The best part about window film is they can be used in conjunction with any or all of the above-mentioned window treatments.

  • Top Food for Natural Teeth Whitening

    Top Food for Natural Teeth Whitening

    There is no truer statement than the fact that the absolute first thing people usually notice about you, is your smile. They base their lasting first impression from your teeth in your smile. The obvious conclusion is the more attractive your smile, the more likely it is that you’ll be sought out, noticed,  liked, and remembered. It is simple logic, better teeth, better smile, which in turn increases your instant likeability. A study was even performed, and the results show the more attractive your smile, the better you’ll do in your job or career.

    So with all this being said it should seem obvious, you need to have a vested interest in your smile and teeth. The best way to improve your smile is to whiten your teeth. The most effective way to whiten is an in-office whitening. However, this is also the most expensive. Not to mention the chemicals and ultra-violet exposure. We are getting enough harmful chemicals all day every day, do we really need to add more for vanity?

    Fortunately, we do not. There are tons of effective ways to naturally whiten your teeth, which as we talked about will improve your smile, resulting in better first impressions, that will eventually lead to career advancements. Let us take some time to discuss some of the top foods for natural teeth whitening.

    The Foods That Clean

    Let’s start with some foods that will naturally clean your teeth. You remember these from your childhood. Parents and doctors were way ahead of the internet on these, demanding they be eaten daily for good health and good teeth. Apples, celery, and carrots. Sounds familiar? This is mostly what horses eat and they always have beautiful smiles. As a matter of fact, I have never met a horse that didn’t make a great first impression.

    There has to be something to this. These healthy fruits and veggies act like natural a toothbrush. They help in boosting saliva production, and we all know saliva is the mouth’s self-cleaning agent. They work to kill bad breath by eliminating bacteria, and scrub the mouth clean. Also, they are extremely and unreasonably delicious.

    The Natural Mouthwash

    After we have done our carrot/apple tooth scrub, it is time to rinse the mouth with a natural mouthwash. Yep, you probably guessed, there is a great natural mouthwash. Citrus fruits. Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and pineapples. Tart or sour fruits will again increase saliva production.

    The mouths natural self-cleaning agent, remember? These fruits, their pulp, and juices, along with the extra saliva they produce will wash your teeth clean naturally. The lemons can be a bit harsh, proceed with caution.

    The Strawberry Toothpaste

    Strawberries are full of an enzyme called malic acid. Malic acid helps remove surface stains on your teeth. Try mashing up strawberries and rubbing them on your teeth, or try this natural toothpaste, mashup strawberries and add baking soda and peroxide.

    Blend until smooth. Use a soft toothbrush to spread the mixture onto your teeth. leave it for a few mins, then rinse. You may need to floss after, strawberry seeds everywhere.

    Let me add to this by explaining the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Baking soda neutralizes acids that are produced in plaque. Due to its grainy abrasive nature, it also works as a high powered scrub brush. The Hydrogen peroxide is another safe whitening agent due to its bleaching qualities.

    Cheese

    Cheese and smiles just go together, that is why you yell “cheese!” before a picture. Everyone loves cheese and instinctively smiles, try it, it always works. Cheese and dairy get blamed for a lot of bad breath as well. I mean who wants cheese breath? Well,  I do, dairy is great for teeth whitening and protection.

    Dairy products contain lactic acid. Lactic acid can help protect teeth against decay. They also are rich calcium and protein, these help to build your tooth enamel. Even one step further, yogurt is believed to bond to your teeth, protecting it from cavity-causing harmful acids.

    Broccoli

    High fiber veggies like broccoli are great for your mouth health. Broccoli can reduce inflammation in your mouth. You will need to eat it crisp and raw to get the full effect. The broccoli will clean and polish your teeth. Broccoli is also high in iron.

    The high iron veggie has an added benefit of providing a wall of protection for your teeth against bacteria and its enamel eroding effects. Broccoli will also prevent stains and cavities.

  • Lighting and Paint Tricks to Make Your House Look Bigger

    Lighting and Paint Tricks to Make Your House Look Bigger

    When I was a kid I had dreams of playing center field for the Yankees or starting my own internet company. Now that I’m an adult homeowner, I just want a lush green looking yard and to walk into my big, well lit, well-painted home. I guess it’s all about perspective. I mean a well-lit living room,  matched with the right paint colors,  can make your room look so much bigger, inviting, and warm, while totally evolving the feng shui.

    That first step into your own home is important. You want it to completely welcome you home and put you at total ease. To tell you the truth I haven’t decided whether I want that initial reaction to being that of a warm cozy home,  or big open and spacious home. Luckily both of this can be achieved with the right paint and the right lighting. Yes, it’s very true different paint colors and styles can have completely different effects on your rooms.

    The right lighting and paint can set the tone for the rest of your house. You can manipulate this tone at your will based on your color choices. Let’s take a deeper look into how paint colors and lighting can change the feel of the room and the tone of your home.

    Two Main Choices, Light or Dark

    Just like McSorley’s on 2nd ave, there are only two choices. Light or dark. The light will make your eye travel continuously around the room.  This gives the effect of making the room appear more spacious and open. The color of a lighter room tends to recede, giving a cooler vibe. You want to use light colors to create a feeling of openness in a room and make it feel more expansive.

    This is great for small apartments or tight bedrooms. Light colors will bounce whatever light is available in the space, which can help if you don’t have great natural light. We will get to more on lighting in a bit.

    When you decide to go from a dark color to light you will need to prime the wall with a white primer first. This is important, don’t skip this. Pick your colors carefully, know how they will react to their surroundings, i.e. white absorbs no light, just reflects. Whereas blues absorb red lights. When selecting your light colors, remember different colors will draw the eye to the separation and will stop where the colors change.

    If you use one color the eye keeps moving from room to room and judges the space as being larger than it is. I would recommend this for a smaller home.  If you are getting a claustrophobic feeling from your room try painting the ceiling a lighter color then the walls. This will make the ceiling look like it has been elevated and larger.

    The dark paints create a cozier and warmer feel but makes the room feel smaller in doing so. If your house is set up to walk into a big open space, using dark colored paints is a great way to make it feel more comfortable. For a great effect try painting the ceiling a darker color than the walls to make it appear lower.

    I deeply enjoy the look of dark colored walls with a nice bright white trim. The contrast establish a border and boundary that the eye picks up immediately. It’s like it adds a sense of order to the room, but you can extend the trim to other rooms. This will give the effect of a continuous space, with both the coziness and the openness at the same time.

    Don’t Be Afraid of Change

    It’s best to play around with the coloring and change it every so often. I like to change mine for the holiday seasons, adding light colors to the open spaces with some deep reds as a contrast walls. It makes my holiday decorations pop. Speaking of contrast walls, let’s talk about their purpose in small narrow rooms.

    If you paint both end walls of a narrow room darker than the other walls, the end walls feel closer to you. It will make the room appear more of a square shape. In a bigger room, a nice look is to divide the walls with a lighter color on top and a darker color on the bottom.

    Lighting

    Now onto lighting, everything can affect the lighting. Lighting also affects eveything. Let’s start with your room placement. A north facing room will appear cooler and bluish. If your room is south facing dark colors will look brighter; lighter colors will virtually glow.

    To the east is great for reds and yellows, your colors will look warm and yellowy before noon, then turn bluer later in the day. West facing you will want to go with something bold, the morning light makes the colors look dull, however they are stunning in the evening light.

  • Symptoms of Chronic Ulcerative Colitis

    Symptoms of Chronic Ulcerative Colitis

    There are a lot of unfortunately uncomfortable conditions and diseases out there. Most are not life-threatening,  just a life-altering pain to deal with. We are going to talk about one of those conditions today. This may get ugly, so brace yourself.

    This may sound unpleasant but are you suffering from bloody diarrhea? Abdominal pain? These could be the first signs of Ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is a disease in which there is chronic inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. The inflammation can cause the lining tissue to break down, forming ulcerations that can bleed. These signs will often be offset with rectal pain. The rectal pain can give you an emergency need to defecate but you may be ineffective in doing so.

    Ulcerative Colitis is very much like Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s disease is also a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines. The two share a lot of common characteristics. They differ in that Crohn’s disease is not limited to the colon. It can be located just in the colon but often Crohn’s disease implicates the small intestine.  Irritable bowel syndrome is also another source of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Unlike UC, IBS does not share any identifiable inflammation and is mostly caused by dysfunction of the nerves and muscles of the intestines. So if we can move past Crohn’s and IBS is not your problem, let’s dive deeper into Ulcerative colitis, or UC as I will further refer to it.

    The What of UC

    What is UC exactly? Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease of the large intestine, when the lining of the colon becomes inflamed and small open sores start to develop. These are called ulcers. These ulcers then produce pus and mucus. Ulcers combined with the pus, mucus, and inflammation set off the abdominal discomfort. This then results in frequent emptying of the colon. Followed by more discomfort, loss of appetite and rectal bleeding.

    Ulcerative colitis is an abnormal response of your immune system. Normally, the cells and proteins that make up the immune system protect you from infection. When you have UC your body starts to think bacteria, food and everything else in your colon is targeted as malicious cells. It’s designed so that the natural response is to destroy that material.  Your white blood cells will rush to your intestine to start attacking everything they can find. This action is what causes the ulcers and inflammation.

    How Did I get UC?

    Despite lots of universities and scientists researching and investigating the cause, nothing of any substance has been found. There are a lot of complicated factors that have to happen before the onset of UC. The first factor is any  genetics you may have inherited. The next issue would be your immune system. Lastly, they believe is environmental. A stimulation of antigens in your environment may stimulate the body’s defenses into action. These 3 factors all have to be present for UC to happen. Once the foreign substance is entered into the intestine, your defense will then spring into action. In UC patients, their body doesn’t know when to turn the defenses back off. Inflammation then takes place, damages the intestine, and the initial symptoms result.

    A recent breakthrough in UC research says it may be the result of an interaction of a virus or bacterial infection of the colon and your body’s natural immune system response. The immune system is supposed to attack an illness or infection. Normally this will be reduced as you heal and recover. When you have UC, this doesn’t happen. The inflammation will persist after you no longer have the infection.  UC targets both men and women, at an equal ratio. Typically in the mid to late 30s. Like I mentioned before one of the 3 factors are hereditary. If others in your family have this, pay attention to symptoms. If you have a close relative with the disease you have a 20% likeliness of getting UC.

    Symptoms

    If you believe you are at risk, these are the tell-tale signs to watch for. The first is diarrhea, often with blood or pus. This will be prolonged, longer then it should after an illness. Abdominal pain and cramping as well as the oh so delightful rectal pain. This will result in rectal bleeding and you will notice a passing of a small amount of blood with stools. Just terrific. There will be a greatly increased urgency to defecate, but you may not be able to defecate despite urgency. The last symptoms are common among a lot of diseases with weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Typical cases only include mild symptoms and may alleviate themselves for long periods of time. They will however return.

    Different Types of UC

    There are 4 types of UC identified by doctors today. Ulcerative Proctitis, Proctosigmoiditis, Left-sided Colitis, Pancolitis, and Acute severe UC. In Ulcerative proctitis, inflammation is mostly designated to the anal region. You may only experience rectal bleeding and none of the other symptoms. With Proctosigmoiditis the inflammation involves the rectum and the lower end of the colon. With this type you will experience;  bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, and an inability to move to unload the bowels. On to Left-sided colitis. In this type, inflammation extends from the rectum up through the lower and descending colon.

    Typical signs and symptoms will appear but there will be a pain only on the left side and some unintended weight loss. Pancolitis is similar but will affect the entire colon. There will be many experiences with bloody diarrhea with serious complications. Of course, there will be abdominal cramps and pain, fatigue, and significant weight loss as well. Lastly, we have the Acute severe ulcerative colitis. This is rare, and the most severe form of UC. ASUC will affect the entire colon and causes intense pain, major diarrhea, bleeding, fever and an inability to eat.

    The Final Thought

    If left untreated, UC will result in a perforated colon, severe dehydration, liver disease, bone loss, inflammation of your skin, joints and eyes, increased risk of colon cancer,  rapidly swelling colon, and an increased risk of blood clots in veins and arteries. As if this wasn’t bad enough with just the rectal bleeding.

    UC can be diagnosed with a CAT scan, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy. Fun. Treatment usually involves drug therapy or surgery. There are many medications that can reduce the inflammation that causes your symptoms.

  • Top Timeshare Destinations You Should be Looking At

    Top Timeshare Destinations You Should be Looking At

    Time-sharing is one of the most wonderful things to ever happen to America’s middle class. TimeShare gives you the option to own a beautiful piece of property in your favorite vacation spot for a fraction of the cost. How do they do this? It is a simple idea, take one glorious property in a destination spot, divide said property into the 52 weeks a year and sell each one to the hard working people of America for an affordable and attractive price. Just purchase a 1/52nd share of a unit, a room, suite of rooms, condo, or villa. Then stay there for a week each year.

    Then a few decades after this magnificent invention, the timeshare industry evolved into a multi-faceted, consumer-focused product that offers much more than just a week per year at your favorite resort.  Timeshare evolved into vacation clubs. This gives you perks, flexibility and discounts along with your week a year in the paradise of your choice. Now the paradise of your choice can change each year with the vacation club model.

    You won’t only get great ownership accommodations in any given destination, the benefits add up. Real benefits,  like extra rewards and free timeshare exchange, or discounts on airfare, travel, and admission to area attractions. Life just keeps getting better.

    Am I starting to sound like a Timeshare salesperson? I’ll stop, just know timeshare and vacation clubs are a great way to maximize your vacations on a budget, add to your investment portfolio,  and treat yourself to a great time. Now that you are on board let us look at the 5 best timeshare destination spots in the country.

    All of Florida

    Timeshare was meant for Florida, and Florida is prime for timeshare. It’s a match made in fanny pack heaven. Florida timeshares can provide a vacation for everyone. Want to take your kids on yearly trips to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios? Just simply want to relax on soft white sand for a west coast Florida sunset? Maybe a warm weather dive into debauchery and easy living is your get-away. Daytona Beach to Naples or all the way down to the Keys, Florida has your vacation ready. Plus it’s cheap.

    With 4 major US cities, airports and cruise ports galore, Florida is a hot spot for paradise seekers. Let’s talk about the golfing, yeah Florida has that too. All the golf you can handle in Florida. Pack your clubs to hit some of the state’s best and most-cherished courses. Legendary courses, such as the Seminole Golf Course, TPC Sawgrass, The Concession Golf Course, The Bear’s Club. Excited yet? Then try out the entire city of Palm Coast, with 5 award-winning, Pro designed, immaculate courses including The breathtaking Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course of Hammock Dunes.

    Timeshare in Hawaii

    Hawaii timeshare resorts are the essence of luxury, boasting spectacular ocean views, and beachfront access. Illustrious restaurants, spas, tennis courts, golf courses and inspiring views at every resort. Hawaii has several islands, each with its own adventure and sights. The Big Island is famous for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Want to vacation in a volcano?  Hike a coffee plantation? Black sand beaches? Not to mention vibrant cities like Honolulu. Ohau has countless parks, botanical gardens, and museums to keep your itinerary full. That’s just the first island.

    Kaanapali Beach on Maui is quickly turning in to the spot for beachside luxury. Boasting the best selection of posh timeshare, spas, and exclusive resorts. A little tip… try a lomilomi massage.

    Colorado

    I’m talking about a little place where the beer flows like wine, and the women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano… I’m talking about a little place called Aspen, or any of Colorado for that matter. If you like Endless blue sky, lush emerald green forests and astonishing mountains Colorado could be your timeshare spot. You can’t tell me you never wanted to own a hot tub and a ski resort in Colorado. You got downhill skiing or fly fishing. All I hear is my blood pressure lowering.

    Las Vegas

    Vegas Baby Vegas… The timeshare king of the world. In Vegas, all the players show up. From the Cliffs at Peace Canyon, Club de Soleil,  or Diamond Resorts Polo Towers Suites. Even Elare, Grandview of Las Vegas and the Hilton’s Flamingo and Paradise are up waiting for you. Put on your finest silk suit and walk in like you own the place because you do.

    Myrtle Beach

    From North, Central or South Myrtle Beach including Murrell’s Inlet, you have an array of Myrtle Beach timeshare ownership and vacation rental opportunities. Resorts located on the oceanfront, on the Intracoastal Waterway or situated on an award-winning golf course, add in anything you could want in a resort. It’s like Florida, but without the trash.

  • Helpful Tips For Garage Door Repair

    Helpful Tips For Garage Door Repair

    The garage door in your home is the portal to your personal and real life living space. What happens when it breaks? Time for a DIY project.  There are two main components of a garage door, the opener and the door.  While styles vary, the overall idea of a garage door is the same. Let’s start by talking about the door. 

    There are many types of garage doors, roll up in sections, one piece that swings up, large French door style, or my favorite the barn door style roll open. They all work pretty much the same way, the door moves on a metal track inside the garage.

    The power is supplied by a heavy spring or multiple springs. It’s a fairly simple process so most repairs are fairly easy to do. Let’s take a look at 5 basic repair tips for your garage door.

    Check the Metal Tracks

    First thing to check if your garage door isn’t opening is the metal tracks inside. This is the most likely place for an issue and one of the easiest to fix. Start with making sure the track is clear of any obstruction or debris. Next look at the mounting brackets, secure any nuts or bolts, if the track is not secured tightly or has any slack in its movement. If all that checks out, let’s move to the track itself.

    Let’s now look at the garage door track for any dents, damages, or crimps. If any are spotted you will want to hammer them out. A rubber hammer or mallet is usually best for pounding out damaged metal. Lastly if the damage is extensive, replace the track.  Again this is a fairly easy and inexpensive DIY problem you can fix. Now is also the time to check those rollers along the edge of the garage door.

    These should be inspected at least twice a year and replaced every 5 to 7 years. During your inspection, replace any rollers you find that are chipped, cracked, or obviously worn. With the exception for the bottom rollers that may be attached to cables, the other rollers can be easily removed and replaced just by removing the brackets holding them.

    Leveling up

    If step one didn’t solve the problem, the issue may be that the track isn’t level. Making sure the track is level is key for your garage door to operate efficiently with gravity. If you have horizontal tracks, they should slant slightly downward. On vertical track doors the tracks should be dead even. Use a level to check their status.

    You can loosen the bolts and use your rubber mallet to bang them back in to place if need be. Do not remove the bolts entirely just loosen, adjust, re-tighten.

    Spring Into Action

    All fixed?  No!  Well then it is time to check the springs. Odds are you know what failing springs look like already. Do a quick inspection, then check the alignment. If the springs are off the garage door itself will be uneven. Unfortunately spring replacement is not a DIY project..

    For this you need to call a guy.  Remember these springs hold a great deal of weight and are under extreme pressure and tension, there is a real risk to replacing. 

    Grease the Chain

    So we have checked the photo eye to make sure nothing is blocking the door, the tracks, the springs, the rollers and ensured the power source is not disrupted. Now we need to inspect the chain and the switch that bypass the springs in the event of a power outage.

    That switch lets you manually open the door should the need arise.  An issue with the chain is a very unlikely source of the problem but costly if it is the issue. Inspect, if you find an issue or kink, again time to call the guy.  

    Upgrade To a Smart Garage

    Like everything else these days, smart automation for your garage door is right at your fingertips.  With a smart device that is Alexa compatible you can make your garage door open with simple voice commands.. oh glorious day! 

    The Garadget adds voice control and remote access to your existing garage door.  For less than $100 you can add the Garadget to your existing line up of alexa enabled smart home devices. This will give you simple voice command and remote access capability. I do like this device and smart garage option.

    I would love it if I could add it to my smart home routines. Having my garage door open and close at designated times would be Jetsons level cool. Unfortunately that Alexa skill isn’t available yet.

    The Final Thought

    You end up using your garage door more than you would think.  Statistically it is used more than your front door. Looking in to annual maintenance services would be my number one overall suggestion. Paired with these DIY tips you should be able to keep the large portal to your home working great at a low overall cost. 

  • Signs and Symptoms of Eosinophilic Asthma

    Signs and Symptoms of Eosinophilic Asthma

    Asthma has baffled doctors for ages. Until recently it was widely accepted that asthma was just one disease. That is no longer the case. Asthma is now being thought of as a collection of conditions. Each individual case is being evaluated by age, onset, and symptoms. This is letting doctors create a case by case treatment plan with highly effective results. Eosinophilic asthma is one of these asthma conditions. Eosinophilic asthma is a subtype of asthma. Doctors and researchers are still hammering out the details and how to best categorize the different subtypes, which will, in turn, lead to better and more advanced treatments.

    In the past eosinophilic asthma was just a way of saying “increased asthma attack frequency”. It was considered a level of asthma. Now with a more in-depth understanding of the subtype, we know it is its own type. With separate conditions, symptoms, causes, and treatments. This deeper understanding of subtypes has led to new medicines that are revolutionizing how we treat eosinophilic asthma.  Eosinophilic asthma is a form of asthma associated with high levels of a white blood cell called eosinophils.

    Eosinophils can cause inflammation in the lungs. The sinuses and nasal passages become impacted and an asthma attack is triggered.  Eosinophilic asthma is similar to standard asthma in that it inflames airways that are in turn blocked by fluid and mucus. This causes spasms in the lungs making it very difficult to breathe.

    Symptoms

    Symptoms of eosinophilic asthma mock asthma symptoms, with very key differences. Some are more likely to be prevalent only in people with an eosinophilic type of asthma. These symptoms start with wheezing and shortness of breath. It will sound like a slight rasp when taking a small to medium breath. A tightness in the chest will signal a significant asthma attack, followed by coughing and the blockage of airflow. This sounds like a classic asthma attack. Where Eosinophilic asthma differs is the chronic symptoms of sinus infections, such as stuffy nose, nasal drainage, and a reduced sense of smell.

    Add in nasal polyps and a greater increase in the frequency of the attacks.  There can also be cases of Eosinophilic Otitis media. This is only diagnosed occasionally. It’s an infection of the inner ear caused by eosinophilia and resulting in thick yellow effusion and gradual loss of hearing. sadly it is very resistant to traditional medicines used to treat otitis media, making it a severe condition of eosinophilic asthma.

    This can be diagnosed and separated from the standard asthma diagnoses by a blood test. The results in an eosinophilic asthma sufferer will be higher than normal levels of eosinophils in the blood. Eosinophils, the major inflammatory cells involved in asthma pathophysiology, is considered a biomarker for asthma.

    Treatments For Eosinophilic Asthma

    While the majority of patients with asthma can be treated effectively with the proper use of maintenance medications, an estimated 10% to 20% of patients are obstreperous to current standards of treatment. This includes oral corticosteroids for patients that are considered to have severe eosinophilic asthma. The treatment now with the advancements made, still is not that different than one would expect. There is a two-phase attack on eosinophilic asthma, rescue, and maintenance. The goal of this 2 front attack is to set up long-term symptom control, maintenance of normal activity levels, all while minimization of the risk and frequency of asthma attacks. This method will allow a reduced risk and effect to asthma attacks as well.

    Treatment is individualized to fit the patient asthma subtype. This is done by severity and the goals of the patient. Let’s start with the rescue medications. Rescue medications are employed infrequently for quick relief of asthma attacks. As the name infers this is designed to “rescue” the patient from obstructed breathing and asthma attacks.  The most effective and widely used rescue medication is a short-acting beta-agonist. The most widely used and prescribed of these drugs is albuterol. This would be in conjunction with Oral and injectable corticosteroids for a  short-term rescue, typically for 3 to 10 days.

    The next phase of attack is maintenance. Maintenance medications are used regularly and continuously for effective long-term control of asthma. They are used to control symptoms and reduce the risk of future exacerbations only. They do not provide any type of immediate attack relief. Early initiation of daily maintenance medication has been associated with improved clinical outcomes. Based on the asthma severity,  your doctor will set up a maintenance program for you. This is all based on the eosinophilic asthma severity at the time of diagnosis. Therapy can be subsequently stepped up if the disease is uncontrolled. At the same time,  stepped down to the lowest level that achieves the goal of your doctor.

    Causes

    While we have no real cause for eosinophilic asthma, and nothing that stands out has been identified, we do know other forms of asthma are triggered by allergic responses to environmental factors. These factors include a range of things such as pollen or pet hair. We do know eosinophilic asthma does not develop in this way. High levels of eosinophils can develop when the body is fighting off parasitic infection.

    Scientists are still unsure of what causes these levels to spike in cases of eosinophilic asthma or the natural link with asthma. The two disease act very much the same but perform in vastly different ways.

    The Final Thought

    This is not a pleasant disease. It is more complicated and much more severe than standard asthma. You should seek emergency care if your quick-acting medication provides no relief after 15 minutes of your attack.

    If you are having difficulty speaking or walking at a normal pace, your lips or nails are turning blue, if you are taking more than 30 breaths a minute or if breathing causes nostrils to flare and the throat and ribs to feel stretched, don’t take the chance and just seek urgent care.

  • The Easiest Way to Mail Almost Any Packages

    The Easiest Way to Mail Almost Any Packages

    In the more than two centuries since Benjamin Franklin was appointed the first Postmaster General in 1775, the Postal Service has grown and changed along with America, boldly embracing new technologies to better serve a growing population.

    Mailing letters and packages is far more comprehensive and easier than the days of purchasing large books of stamps and doing the math yourself to ensure Fred the mailman would deliver.

    No longer do you need to know that in 1974, the price per .5 ounce package was .02 cents extra. We live in the post digital revolution, an age where everything is done for you with just a few clicks.  Don’t forget though, with conveniences comes options.

    Because there are so many different shipping variables and options to choose from, it’s difficult to make an apples to apples comparison without locking down some of the basic parameters. Shipping can be expensive, and sometimes it’s hard to know which option is best. In addition to the major shipping services — the U.S. Postal Service, UPS, and FedEx — there are nontraditional ways to ship that many people don’t know about.

    Here are some tips and general info to help guide you through shipping and postage in 2019.

    Quick Comparison

    A comparison of the Postal Service, UPS, and FedEx found that the Postal Service generally charges the lowest rates — but not always. UPS and FedEx offer competitive rates for ground shipping and more options if you’re in a rush, so comparing costs can save money.

    The services have their own price calculators, but a good comparison tool will look at more than one at a time. Enter information for a package or envelope traveling within the United States to see cost estimates for different services. Easy!

    The US Postal Service Automated Kiosk

    When it comes to everyday shipping within the United States, it’s difficult to beat the US Postal Service on price and ease of use. Regardless of naysayer opinions, the USPS has more locations in more places than most private shipping companies, and more cost-effective options for people who don’t have accounts or regular shipping needs.

    If you hate standing in line at the Post Office, find a location with a self-serve kiosk near you. You’ll be in and out in no time. Walk up, weigh your item (if it’s necessary), print a label, stick it to your item, put it in the slot, and walk away.

    Try online shipping if you don’t want to make the trip to the post office. One way to save on U.S. Postal Service costs is to pay for your shipping online. You can save up to 16 percent on priority mail orders and up to 60 percent on express mail. You also get free pick-up service, priority mail delivery confirmation and shipping supplies when you pay online with the post office. Pretty cool and convenient.

    Stamps.com

    Stamps.com is a leading provider of internet based mailing and shipping solutions in the United States. Customers of both Stamps.com and its wholly owned Endicia receive discounted rates on some packages relative to both USPS.com and USPS retail locations. Under the ShipStation, ShipWorks, and Shipping Easy Brands, customers access multi-carrier solutions to ship packages through multiple carriers, including the USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

    The first benefit of using Stamps.com is the price. At $19.99/month, Stamps.com is cheaper than most other shipping software solutions, especially if you’re shipping between 50 and 500 orders a month. In addition, a subscription with Stamps.com gives you access to discounted shipping rates from USPS. What’s more, Stamps.com is simple to learn.

    Because it is a bare-bones tool, there isn’t a whole lot to figure out in order to get shipping. What’s more, Stamps.com support is reportedly good, and the company does a great job with their support documentation. You’ll be able to find answers to many of your questions with a quick search.

    FedEX and UPS

    To help cut FedEx and UPS costs, consider prepaid shipping, which offers a discount rate of up to 20 percent. This means you buy a quantity of shipping labels upfront and affix them to packages as needed rather than pay for each package when you send it out.

    Prepaid shipping works best when you know you’ll be sending out the same weight packages repeatedly and can determine the shipping cost in advance.

  • How to Prepare Your Classic Car for Transport

    How to Prepare Your Classic Car for Transport

    Your antique hot rod is like a fine wine that gets more desirable  after every year, which makes finding and preparing for classic car transport a lot more daunting. The easiest way to take the stress out of transporting your classic car is to plan and prepare what you need to do ahead of time, to ensure your vehicle safely gets where it needs to be.

    The calamity and devastation of a beautifully restored classic automobile being damaged during transport can be unbearable.

    Actually, only a small number cars moved by auto transport companies are damaged in the process. Odds are that your antique vehicle will arrive  in pristine condition. You can further protect your investment by choosing your auto transport company carefully and by thoroughly preparing your classic car for its journey.

    When you’ve invested in a classic car, you want to take every precaution to protect your investment. When you move or need to transport your car for service or for a show, shipping your car, rather than driving it can help reduce the chances of accident or depreciation.

    Here are some great tips to help you and your vintage machine out.

    Do Your Research Before Hiring a Transport Company

    If you’re shipping your car, don’t trust just anyone. Doing a little research ahead of time when selecting a classic car shipping company can save you a headache down the road. Ask fellow car enthusiasts or friends who have shipped their classic cars which companies they’ve used. Were they happy with the work? Was anything damaged or missing after the car was shipped? Read up on consumer reviews of classic car transport companies on sites like Angie’s List Classic Cars.

    Once you have a few companies in mind, check their safety records with the local highway patrol, your state’s transportation department or with the federal Department of Transportation. If the company transports across state lines, they should have a presence on the Federal DOT’s safety database, which lists inspections performed and major accidents.

    One of the first things you’ll find out about transportation companies is that there are a lot of them. Many of them carry your normal, everyday cars for people relocating across the country, while others focus specifically on collector cars. There is a wide spectrum of transporters, from guys with dually trucks and one-car open flatbed trailers, to the big names in the industry with their enclosed, double-decker trailers. In other words, do your research.

    Document the vehicle’s condition

    This is highly important. Take photographs of your car and any loose parts before shipping to document their condition. Should an accident or damage occur during the vehicle’s transport, photos will help you get maximum compensation for your insurance claim.

    At the delivery, thoroughly inspect the vehicle upon delivery if your car will eventually be shipped back to you or if you’re meeting it at its destination.  Be sure to completely evaluate the vehicle and check for any damages before accepting it. If you’re shipping your vehicle to a restoration shop or a new buyer, make sure they conduct a complete inspection and review any noted damage description that should have been filled out when the vehicle was loaded.

    The Q’s and A’s You Need To Ask

    How much does it cost?

    “It depends,” is the short answer. Fuel prices, distance and door-to-door services can all add to the price.

    Does the company specialize in collector cars?

    If they do, they know not to handle your collector car like cattle headed off to market.

    Does the company have a U.S. Department of Transportation number?

    Federal regulations require a USDOT number for interstate commerce, and 25 of the 50 states require all commercial vehicles to obtain a USDOT number.

    Does the company have comprehensive insurance that covers its cargo as well as its truck and trailer?

    Have the company mail or fax you a copy of its insurance policy. $100,000 liability on transported vehicles is common.

    What is the company’s policy on deposits?

    Is it non-refundable and when does the company require the deposit?

    What is the company’s payment policy?

    Is it strictly cash, do they accept money orders, do they accept checks or do they take credit cards? Do not ship with a company that demands payment in full before the car is dropped off.

    Where does the company drop off and pick up cars?

    Most trucks and trailers can’t fit down or turn around on narrow residential streets, so they’ll need a big parking lot for loading and unloading.