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One Door Closes & Another One Opens

Joel x OFC!Divorce Lawyer

Explicit, 18+

Voice To The Face

Main MasterList & Series Masterlist - My AO3

Summary: She’s a divorce attorney and he’s a husband looking for help to save his daughter, and himself, from his gambling addict wife. Renae Russo is a woman who fights for her clients and wins. She’s satisfied with her life and what she does - but she wishes she could have a little more. What happens when Joel Miller becomes her client and an old flame of Renae’s reignites in the same breath?

Chapter Summary: Both Joel and Renae finally find the courage to make the right decisions to better their lives and find true happiness, partially together and partially not. Better late than never.

Word count: 5.8k

—

Mindlessly pacing back and forth in Tommy’s backyard, Joel can’t seem to stop talking to Renae. The conversation flows so easily, there’s no awkward silence, no vile words being thrown around, no drunken nonsense, and no slot machine music in the background. It’s the first time in years Joel feels listened to and has someone who actually engages in conversation.

His flip-flops pop on the cement that surrounds the inground pool - he’s probably done at least two dozen laps in a matter of minutes. The sky has changed to a soft blue with a hue of orange coming from the sun that’s starting to set, soft bubble-like clouds scatter the sky, and the vibrant oak and ash trees dance with the wind that lightly blows. Summers in Austin can be outright magical, but they can also be dangerously hot. Thankfully this year has been more of the cooler weather, but Joel’s not gonna jinx it because he’s noticed as he gets older, he hates the heat.

Joel didn’t expect to be by the pool for this call, so his jeans stick to his sweaty legs and groin as he paces, making him adjust his semi-hard cock that's been fighting with his zipper. If he would’ve known the first call with a divorce lawyer would’ve gone this way, he wouldn’t have been around Tommy. He started the call sitting with Tommy in his front lawn, both sitting around an ash-filled fire pit with whiskeys in each other's hands, but after about five minutes of Tommy wanting to know every tiny bit of what she was saying, Joel just stood up and walked to the backyard, whiskey in hand.

The phone call started out professional; he went into extreme detail about his financial details, how he wants physical and sole custody of Sarah with no strings to Annie, and that he wants to keep everything except the Toyota. She can keep that damn thing for all he cares, it’s of no use to him.

However, about thirty minutes into the call, after Joel mentioned he also wants to keep the cabin he and Annie bought when they first got together, Renae is the one to change the energy of the call from business to somewhat casual. She talks about how she loves camping in cabins and that she hasn’t gone camping in over a decade, and Joel makes sure to remember that she’s been to ten different campsites in Texas.

If things go a certain direction, he might be able to help her add to that list. At the same time, Joel can’t stop from thinking how he’s already looking into the future with her, during a time where he’s getting divorced. But he quickly finds himself getting distracted by the way her business voice morphed into this bubbly, sarcastic one that has Joel hypnotized by her every word.

And just like that, the floodgates open and the divorce talk is forgotten about completely by both parties.

Another thirty minutes go by of Joel and Renae getting to know each other through talking about fun activities they’ve individually done in the past and things they both enjoy. He talks about things he’s done with Sarah throughout her life, the memories of going to Disney World, to Cedar Point, the Grand Canyon all start to play out like a movie in his brain. Joel hasn’t thought about some of the things that play for him right now in some years - he’s been too occupied to reminisce about the past, so he goes silent for a moment getting lost in little Sarah giggles and hugs.

“That reminds me of the time my sister and I went tubin’ and both of us flew- and when I say flew, I mean we went like ten feet in the air!” She laughs on the other side of the phone.

Seriously? Joel can’t help but chuckle as he asks her, his left hand rubs the back of his neck as he passes the metal handle that leads to the pool steps. Circling for what could very well be the hundredth time.

“Yes, Joel, my dad is insane when it comes to his boat. But I wouldn’t have anyone else drive it, and he wouldn’t either.”

“That sounds like a smart man to me. Sounds like me with my pontoon.”

“Joel, stop it right now,” her southern twang takes control as she drags out her words almost in a whiny voice, but not annoying like Annie. Quite the opposite, actually, any tone from Renae has Joel drooling from his mouth and dick.

“You keep surprisin’ me with these fun little facts about you.”

Heat rushes instantly to his face, and he’s so taken aback that his feet plant themselves and he drags his fingers through the top of his curls and stops them on the back of his head, where he softly scratches his scalp. Something about her smart-ass attitude, silk-like voice, and confident cadence all combined and tied with a large bow to make it better has him not feeling like himself, and he can’t tell if that’s good or not.

“I’ve lived a pretty full life darlin’, there’s lots of things you’d learn from me.”

Joel feels like he must be on a roll or something because of the way she giggles; it’s almost like he can see her sun kissed cheeks start to turn red and her teeth shine from her smile. His heart beat thumps in his chest and cock that’s now supported by the waistband of his boxers and jeans. Thankfully he’s somewhat smart enough to have his back facing the two story home to hide the effects from this one woman.

“Well, since you’re offering, I couldn’t possibly pass that up. That would just be pretty dumb of me.” Joel knows she’s serious but he also hears the bit of sarcasm that laces her words. It’s like a fun game of cat and mouse, who’s gonna fold first, and Joel is loving every second of it.

Joel’s body feels light and airy, his chest isn’t tight. Most importantly, he’s not walking on eggshells. It’s become so natural for him to always be on alert and pay attention to the little inflections of someone’s voice and body language, but that hasn’t happened once since he’s been on this call. It’s refreshing to have a simple, yet meaningful, conversation with someone - her slight southern charm with some street knowledge, and with him knowing her physical attributes, Joel can’t complain in the slightest.

He feels like he’s hit the lottery with Renae and he hasn’t even met her yet.

“Well sugar, how about I come to see ya’ tomorrow ‘n I’ll teach ya’ some things.” The second glass of whiskey gives Joel the confidence he needs to keep up the playful banter and not feel self conscious about it. A second goes by and he swears he hears her try to cover up another giggle, I still got it. Joel hasn’t flirted in years, after so long he was convinced he could never do it again and he was going to be this cold hearted old man for the rest of his life.

“Come by anytime between noon and four,” she says, her voice low and sweet, “Just say you’re here for Russo and she’ll bring you to me.”

“Someone’s eager,” Joel can’t help but grin, “But it sounds like a deal, darlin’.”

“Well I wanna put a face to the smooth voice- uh, I-” she’s now stumbling on her words trying to hide the fact that she just slipped up more than she wanted to. “You may want to bring paper copies of bills, properties you own, and any evidence against Annie that you have. Ya’ know, for our first conciliation- free of charge for you.”

“Will get as much as I can by then-”

“Dad!”

Joel spins around and sees Sarah standing in the doorway with her Nightmare Before Christmas pajama set and her brown hair is pulled up in a high bun that sits on her head. “Are you done yet? I wanna play uno before bed!” She shouts with both of her hands sitting on her hips as she pops her left hip out dramatically and her face has a scowl the size of a monster.

He can’t help but snort at the amount of attitude that spews out of his four foot daughter - oddly enough, he hears Renae snickering in his right ear.

“Give me one minute, kiddo, just gotta finish this call.”

“Ugh, you said that over an hour ago,” Sarah groans and spins around to storm off into Tommy’s, but before she takes a step Joel is quick to check her. He lets some attitude and smart ass comments fly, but not when it comes to something like this. It’s too close to her coming off as a snooty kid - which is not the kind of behavior he will tolerate.

He rests his phone on his chest as his voice booms across the pool and yard from her, “Would ya’ rather just go to bed?” This stops her and causes her to turn her head. I’m sorry, she apologizes. He nods and she’s gone inside. Then he shakes his head, raising his left hand to his face as he rubs the corner of his eye for a moment to collect himself.

“Sorry ‘bout that-“

“Don’t be,” Renae interrupts him, “When duty calls you gotta act on it, I get it. Well, not cause of kids, but- you know what I mean. Anyways, I’ll let you go for the night and I’ll see you tomorrow Mr. Joel Miller.”

He doesn’t want to hang up, he could talk with her for hours and hours. But ultimately he knows he has to, there’s no other option. He’s been dreading this part of the call, partially due to the fact he knows he’s gotta go back to reality.

“Alrighty, Ms. Russo,” he purrs, “Rest up so ya’ can see if my face meets your expectations.”

Renae giggles and the shaking of her bracelets clangs together faintly in the background. “Night, Joel.”

Then just like that, she hangs up. Leaving Joel smirking like a fifteen year old boy who just talked to his first crush and got her number. But now he’s alone with his conflicting thoughts and feelings about how he should handle this delicate situation.

—

On my way back now, a client surprised me. Be home in 10<3

Renae hits send to Gia, who texted her about five minutes ago reminding Renae that she said she’d be home no later than six-thirty - it's ten after seven. Renae had gotten distracted by her phone call with Joel, that she forgot her sister and niece were even in town. There was just something about him that entranced her and kept her wanting to learn more and more about him and who he is as a person.

Renae’s phone goes off with a ding, and she picks it up and unlocks it to see a response.

Kk I just got B out the bath and she’s playing with Frankie, see you when you get here<3

Renae smiles and holds down the message and presses the heart reaction, letting Gia know she read it. After tossing her phone in her purse on her passenger side, she puts her car in drive and heads home.

But she can’t stop thinking of Joel. The way his southern drawl slurs his words just a bit, his laugh deep and sounds like it starts in his belly and climbs into his chest, and the way he talks so highly of his daughter like she’s the most precious thing to him. It’s almost too perfect - but yet again, he is getting divorced, so maybe that’s his red flag. She can’t help but think maybe he wasn’t so innocent in the way things ended with Annie, because there’s two sides to every story.

Even with those negative things floating around her head, she can’t leave the idea of Joel alone. Renae can’t think of the last time a man who has been open about emotions and relationships and a stand up guy all around.

Well, that’s kind of a lie.

Dominic Amaro.

That man will forever be the standard of a boyfriend that Renae will ever have. When they broke up, she told herself that she would never settle for anything less than that and she has upheld that since then. It hasn’t been easy, Renae’s used to the toxic, needy guys - for some god awful reason - so she’s had to learn how to steer clear from those people.

Joel seems to be the opposite of what she would be into, however she’s only basing this off of his voice and personality with a mix of his playful humor.

Sugar, darlin’, Ms. Russo.

Renae can’t stop replaying those words in Joel’s voice. She’s hooked, addicted even. She’s not sure how she’s gonna be able to keep her composure tomorrow. If he looks anything like she imagines - she’s fucked, and not in a good way.

Well, maybe…who knows?

By the time she reaches her apartment complex, she’s already looking forward to sleeping. But she knows she can't. Bianca is going to want to watch The Princess Bride before she goes to bed tonight. It's become tradition since the first time Bianca traveled five years ago. The first night they stayed, Gia suggested it and Bianca just fell in love with the movie. The next time they visited, Renae surprised Bianca with baking sugar cookies before the movie so they would be done about half way through. Then they could snack on some treats while enjoying the movie before they all went to bed.

It’s helped heal a bit of Renae’s broken heart that she denies having; being able to create joy for Bianca out of something so minuscule is all Renae needs.

“I’m back!” She announces as she pushes her front door open and instantly spots everyone in the living room to her left. “So sorry I’m late, I got caught up on a call.” She can feel Gina’s eyes scorning her back as Renae faces her kitchen, setting down her purse and laptop bag. Like she always does.

But before Gia can get a word out, Bianca is at Renae’s hip, saving her from any bullshit her mom was about to unleash. “It’s okay, we got the movie all set and got the cookies mixed up, they just gotta go in the oven!” Bianca squeals as she looks up at Renae with this enormous smile that Renae can’t help but feel warm and fuzzy; she looks so much like a mix of Gia and Renae, the Russo genes are strong.

“Lovebug, you are the bomb,” Renae lowers her right hand a low five, which Bianca smacks hard. “Just lemme’ go change and we can start!”

“Okay!” Bianca cheers as she hugs Renae’s hips and runs back into the living room with Gia and Frankie. The apartment is now filled with puppy barks and growls as Bianca plays tug-a-war with him on the dark gray carpet that has a hint of navy blue to it, that covers the living room.

“Can I talk with you for just a second?” Gia asks with a snide tone while standing up from the navy leather couch, then walking behind Renae who’s heading to her room.

“Don’t think I have much of a choice,” Renae sighs in defeat while opening her bedroom door. In a strange way, she now feels like the little sister who’s about to get scolded by the older one for god knows what. However, deep down Renae knows that Gia can sense something is up. When she and Bianca are in town, Renae is never late and won’t ever give a half-assed excuse, for anything - so Gia definitely knows something is different.

Before Renae can even get one heel off, Gia is already shooting off a hundred questions at once. To anyone else it would sound like pure gibberish, but Renae has no problem making out each word and being able to understand them.

So who’s the guy? How old? Does he have money? Is he tall? Fat? Skinny? Short? How long has this been goin’ on? Are you and Dominic talking again? You only glow like this when you’re with or talking with him- She takes a split second to gasp out of a realization, oh my god…it is Dominic. When were you gonna tell me? How long?

By the time she’s finished with her array of questions, Renae has already changed into her oversized tee and shorts and is now in her bathroom relieving her face from the makeup that’s melted to her face from the brutal heat. Completely ignoring her sisters ridiculous blabbering, but yet hating the fact that she’s right - partially.

With both her hands flat on the pearl white countertop next to the matching white square sink that sits above the counter, instead of in it. A little touch of something different than any other place she was looking at to rent, the bathroom is really what sold her on this one bedroom, one and a half bathroom apartment.

She observes her reflection opposite of her, she can tell there is a small glow that shines from her face; her cheeks have a brighter color to them, her green eyes piercing but soft, her shoulders are relaxed and low. She’s not tense, like she has been for the last few years. Not because of anything in particular, she just hasn't been able to let loose like she wants.

After a few more seconds of taking in her appearance, she sees how happy she looks. The defined lines in between her eyebrows are softer, the smiles lines grow from the permanent smile that paints her lips. Her eyes are full of hope and desire, much like how she feels about tomorrow. The promise of tomorrow is what’s keeping her light on her toes; the possibility of something new and unfamiliar excites Renae.

She has to venture out of her comfort zone, Dominic can’t be her safety net forever.

“Hello,” Gia drags out as she vigorously flips the light switch on and off, “Earth to Renae, anyone home?”

“Shit, yeah.” Renae shakes her head before she slides her bracelets off, along with her rings, and hoops. Then setting them on the counter next to the sink; knowing that she’ll more than likely wear them tomorrow, she doesn’t put them in her jewelry stand.

Quickly glancing over to her sister and her bump, who’s no more than a couple meters away, Renae smiles at the fact Gia is living her life exactly how she wants. The jealousy still lingers in her soul, it always will, but it’s pushed into the back of her mind for now. She goes back to her reflection and starts to put her thick hair into a low bun that sits at the bottom of her neck.

“For your information, Dominic and I aren’t back together, but we have been talking-“

“I knew it!”

Renae now completely faces Gia with a playful - kinda annoyed - expression, “Bitch, are you gonna let me finish? Or do ya’ not want the story?” Crossing her arms in front of her chest and popping her right hip that bumps into the drawer.

“Can’t help myself!” Gia scoffs as she turns around and sits on Renae’s bed, one hand planted behind her supporting her body up and the other one spreads across her belly. Her worn gray Yankee’s tee lifts enough for her belly button to pop out, Renae can't stop her lips from curving up. Pure love and compassion pours out of her whole demeanor. Seeing Gia legitimately happy and enjoying herself and her life, getting everything she wants and needs for her and her family, is such a beautiful feeling for Renae.

The big sister finally feels like the baby has finally found herself and it digs at her a little bit because she doesn’t need Renae. At least not like they did as kids. But it also fills her with this accomplished spirit because Renae was the one who pushed Gia to move to New York and make that one last step.

Now look at Gia; a badass business owner, wife, mother, and homeowner.

“I get excited when this shit happens to you, Rae… Cause you deserve it and I want it so badly for you.” Gia’s tone is now low and sincere, her body language even. She swipes the loose pieces of her shoulder length hair that’s a bright cherry blonde behind her ears and slightly sitting forward. Almost too fast for Renae to catch but she sees a small tear fall down Gia’s cheek before she quickly wipes it away with her right hand.

“Please know that I’m rooting for you in every way possible, even with our little tit-for-tat shit we do.”

Renae now in the doorway between her bedroom and bathroom with the right side of her body leaning against the frame, her left leg crossed behind her right one that supports her body and her arms still folded. The image of her pregnant sister in front of her instantly soothes her body and mind, she can never stay mad at Gia.

“Don’t go gettin’ all fuckin’ sappy on me,” Renae chuckles, “Buck up, camper.”

“Whatever, so how’s Dominic and his ma?”

“Not good, uh, he told me she’s maybe got a year left in her. Her organs just are not functioning like they should, so he’s pretty shaken by that.”

“Aw, Rae. I’m sorry, honey.”

“Yeah, well, anyway Dominic is comin’ to visit next month, so I invited him to stay with me for those few days he’s here.” Renae watches as Gia’s eyes bulge and her mouth starts to open, however she’s quick to stop her. “Nothing serious is gonna come outta it, I just figured if he’s gonna be in Austin he could save money by staying here. And maybe we’ll fuck or not, I don’t know okay?”

“I didn’t say anything,” Gia smirks as she raises her hands in surrender. “But I know that’s not everything that happened today… Spill.” Both her hands back on the mattress supporting her body as she leans back a bit with a cocky smirk.

Renae can’t help herself from laughing as she turns to flick the light off in the bathroom and slides past Gia towards the door that leads out to the rest of her apartment. She doesn’t want to explain the Joel situation right now mostly because she hasn’t even met him yet, so she really has nothing to go on. She’ll fill Gia in tomorrow after her meeting with him.

“Nice try, your daughter’s waiting for us.” She flicks her bedroom light off, “In five seconds I bet she’ll call for us. Five…four…three…two..”

“Mamaaa, are y’all almost ready?”

In her dark room the two sisters can’t help the burst of laughter and snorts that leave their mouths at the perfect timing of Bianca’s voice from the living room. Renae was just trying to switch the topic of conversation off of her before she got stuck answering to her sister.

Even though she’s a lawyer - a very good one - Gia is able to corner Renae into telling her things. She’s never been able to understand why her baby sister is the one to crack her and it’s been like this since Gia could talk. So Renae found out she has to switch the conversation or just leave the area, because otherwise Gia will sit there and pick apart every minute detail that Renae subconsciously tells.

“We’re comin’, lovebug!”

—

The flicking of Renae’s nails on her thumb and ring finger on her right hand takes over the office, her nerves tingling with anticipation. It’s the first time she’s ever been nervous to meet a client. Well frankly, she’s never had a client like this before.

She can’t stop pacing her office; around her desk, around the table that sits in the middle of her room, up and down the length of her five foot window as she stares down twelve stories at the people who look like ants. Her stomach is in knots, her throat feels dry even though she’s pounded a couple of bottles of water.

Burning rays of sun shine down on her through the window pane, causing her to turn back to her office as she scans her surroundings. Making sure everything is exactly how she wants it and nothing is slightly out of place; first impressions are huge for her.

Renae’s office is her prized possession, she’s worked her ass off to get where she is; right after high school she jumped into college - four years of college to get her bachelors in Sociology and then she did three years in Law school. Luckily she knew Rachel York through a family friend, who put a good word in for Renae and was able to start at R&R Law Firm immediately. So the last thing she wants is for a client to walk in and be instantly turned away by how her space is decorated or kept together.

Maybe that’s a stretch for anyone to think but she’s heard plenty of stories from other attorneys, where their desk wasn’t kept up completely and the client complained about him being disorganized. So ever since then Renae has been a stickler about her work space.

Why did I give him such a huge window of time? She repeats on a loop in different ways so she can try to understand her logic, but there’s no right or wrong answer. She was simply too distracted by him and too eager to meet him to even think about giving correct information. She cracks her thin fingers on both hands and a little bit of her tension is broken, at least in her hands - the other parts of her body are another story.

She tilts her head up to the clock above her desk, one o’clock on the dot. She inhales through her nose and lets it sit in her chest for a second, then exhales through her mouth once to try to escape the reality of meeting Joel. But it doesn’t help. She walks about her mahogany desk and sits in her matching colored office chair, adjusting her fitting white button-up that’s tucked into her high waisted baby blue dress pants so she’s comfortable.

Her usual curly hair, now pin straight with a middle part, reaches the top of her butt and a few money pieces in front of her shoulders and temples on her face. The gold of her jewelry shimmers with her sun-kissed skin that lays underneath the thick, choker-like chain necklace, accompanied by her medium sized hoops, bangles on each wrist and groupings of rings on either hand. Her French tipped acrylics being the cherry on top for her.

“Knock, knock.”

Renae stops like she just got caught sneaking out the house as a teenager.

He’s here. Holy shit. Fuck, fuck, fuck.

With her open toed white heels she spins her chair towards her door to see the mystery man that she already knows is going to uproot her life. Her body stops all movements, but her brain is working a mile a minute.

He’s from the diner… He’s the hot man from the diner.

But he’s cleaned himself up. He’s now crossed the threshold of the door about five or six feet away from her, give or take. First thing that catches her eye is how he shaved his face, keeping the mustache so not quite a baby face but not the full beard she loved yesterday. His salt and pepper curls are combed back and not messy, it even looks like he may have gotten a small haircut on the top. His dark chocolate orbs glistening along with his tanned skin from the sun that beats in from the window across the room.

She can’t believe this, it’s almost comical. In fact, she can’t help but laugh and slightly shake her head side to side while she stares up into his eyes. Joel does the same as he holds a stack of papers in a Manila folder tucked between his left bicep that’s covered by a light gray button up, which is bunched up and about ready to rip and his side.

“So you’re Joel Miller?” She giggles as she pushes herself out of her chair and steps towards him to properly greet him, for real this time and not just a quick moment of intimate eye contact while she walks away.

“This is me, darlin’,” he says, and she watches his eyes do a quick up and down gaze of her body as she gets closer. Her heart flutters at his voice, it's soft but deep like it comes from his chest and his southern tone is heavy when it comes to pet names.

Now directly in front of him, Renae extends her arm to shake his hand - for more reasons than one - her thin gold bangles chime together.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Miller”

Joel’s quick to grasp her hand, which is completely swallowed by his thick, calloused hand that squeezes for a second, “Likewise Ms. Russo.” His voice is like honey that drips and drips, having Renae begging for more of it.

—

“So you did know it was me before you came here?” Renae questions Joel with a smirk, as she barely sways her chair and pops her gum, while he sits across her desk.

Joel shifts his body just enough so his shoulder blades now rest on the back of the leather swivel chair, his right hand scratches his stubble while he chuckles at her reaction. His eyes roam around her body, even though she’s all he wants to look at. He’s partially embarrassed because he feels like a stalker of some kind, even though she’s reassured him that he’s not dozens and dozens of times.

It’s been close to two hours since he arrived at her office. The first hour was all about the divorce bullshit he’ll have to go through; canceling insurance on Annie’s Toyota and changing the title to her name, taking her off his phone plan, changing locks, taking her off of the family insurance policy. Then the worst two things that he wanted to avoid at all cost, he found out he’s going to have to deal with it - the whole process will take four months minimum because there’s a child involved and that he’s going to have to fight for physical and sole custody because Annie’s going to, and already is, fighting it.

Renae could tell he was feeling down and out of sorts just by the way his whole body tensed when Sarah came up in the conversation. So she swiftly changed the course of their conversation and turned it more easy-going and natural than the previous. Which ended up turning into an hour of joking about the fact they have somewhat already met one another and the fact the odds of that happening are slim to none.

“Yes… But,” he sits up, now halfway off the seat and his elbows rest on his knees, while his palms and fingertips pressed together, “I just happened to click on R&R Law Firm. I saw your picture - beautiful one by the way - ‘N I told myself, or, made myself is a better way to describe it. And I had to just make the call.”

Joel loves the way her face brightens whenever he compliments her or he makes a joke that she finds hilarious; the way her nose scrunches when she tries to hide her laughter or smile, makes it hard for him to stop staring. He’s just getting to know her and he’s already obsessed, addicted, fixated. It’s kind of scary how possessive he already feels around Renae.

“Thank you. It’s an old picture, I’m sure you can tell,” her hands gesture to her face for a moment before she rests them back on her armrests and scoffs. “Side note, I believe you Joel. Don’t have to defend yourself, that’s what I’m here for!” Her teeth gleam with her smile as she rolls her chair a bit to her right and gently pulls the middle drawer of her desk open and grabs a sheet of paper.

“Exactly why I wanted ya, darlin’.” He draws out the beginning of ‘exactly’ as he watches her move so smoothly behind her desk. Gliding to one side and her orange strands of hair fly with her, grabbing a pen for him to use and the top part of her button-up open just enough for Joel to get a peak of her breasts, and back in the middle as she turns the paper to him.

“Just sign here,” she circles the bottom section on the front, then flips the sheet over, “‘n here and I’m all yours.” She purrs, handing the blue pen to Joel who happily takes it. Joel rarely liked the look of Annie’s too long, bright acrylics but Renae’s simple style and length makes him rethink his opinion on acrylics. He starts to think about how pretty her French tips would look wrapped around his throbbing cock or how ravishing she looks when she’s dripping with arousal as she glides through her folds and teases herself.

Mindlessly he signs the form and sets the pen on top of it before he slides it back to Renae who’s admiring him from behind her desk. Joel's brain can’t wrap around the fact that someone as gorgeous and intelligent as Renae, is even interested in a guy like Joel. Maybe too much of the belittling and the trauma from Annie has diminished his self esteem, but he can slowly feel it coming back.

She’s all mine.

[972getasam-dfw]

5 Different Priorities To Consider for Your DFW Move

Priorities. We have them with everything from time and money to household tasks. They even apply to moving and storage.  After all, each of us has a different definition of what's important when it comes to relocations. Is it access to nightlife and entertainment? Safety and security? Something else? Let's go over some of the top priorities people consider and give you recommendations on where to move in Dallas-Fort Worth for them. 1. Safety and Security Whether you have children or peace of mind is a top priority in general, safety and security is one of the top considerations for people moving to or within Dallas-Fort Worth. In general, the suburbs will be safer than urban areas like downtown. But some cities are safer than others. Here are the Top 5 cities listed in Niche’s 2023 Safe Suburbs in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area list: - Coppell - Southlake - Frisco - University Park - Flower Mound 2. Dining Perhaps you’re a foodie and access to top-rated dining is a priority. This isn’t uncommon in Dallas-Fort Worth, as plenty of its residents are obsessed with cuisines like BBQ, Tex-Mex and other fine fare. Downtown Fort Worth and Downtown Dallas are both great options for this priority, but here are five others from Thrillist’s The 10 Best Eating Neighborhoods in Dallas. - Deep Ellum - Bishop Arts - Greenville - Trinity Groves - Knox-Henderson-Fitzhugh 3. Nightlife and Entertainment DFW sometimes gets a reputation outside of Texas for seemingly having nothing to do, but this couldn’t be further than the truth and is based on an outdated stereotype. Dallas-Fort Worth is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the country and its nightlife and entertainment offerings reflect that. Here are five neighborhoods from Visit Dallas’ Top Dallas Neighborhoods for Nightlife, Shopping + More list:  - Deep Ellum - Uptown Dallas - Oak Lawn - Design District - Fair Park 4. Traffic/Commute One of the negatives of living in DFW is unfortunately the traffic. It can get really frustrating and inconvenient depending on the part of town you live in, so this is obviously a top priority for many people. Here are some options to consider from IMS Relocation’s The 5 Most Commute-Friendly Suburbs in Dallas-Fort Worth list:  - Arlington - Irving - Coppell - Frisco - Plano 5. Residence Last, but not least, the house or residence itself might be the main thing you care about with your DFW move. Certain suburbs give you more acreage, bigger homes or a combination of both. Here are five options from Niche’s 2023 Best Suburbs to Buy a House in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area list:  - Southlake - Trophy Club - Oak Leaf - Lantana  - Double Oak We all have different priorities when it comes to moving. If you’re considering a move from, within or to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, trust SAM (Store & Move) to treat your priorities as our own. Contact us for a no-obligation quote today! Read the full article

[le-trash-prince]

My new neighbor, who has been in the process of flipping their house, tore down their 40+ yr old oak tree, and at first I was going to give them the benefit of the doubt that maybe the tree was sick or smth and they hadn’t done it just for aesthetic reasons because can you imagine? Tearing up a tree that old because it’s in the way of your landscaping??

But then they also tore up all their grass and replaced it with a softer, non-drought tolerant grass that they have had to water for an hour every week in the middle of a drought. And there’s now a massive strip of dead grass just beyond the boundary of their sprinkler because they re-sodded with non-native grass during Texas summer. When they had perfectly good and healthy grass before all of this! There was no need to “improve” the landscaping!

So yes, I’m thinking that they tore up this beautiful, old tree just for aesthetic reasons even though shade trees are a selling point ahdhfjf

I’m growing so tired of flipping culture that only cares about the way a house looks in its listing photos and not the sustainability or livability of what they’re doing to a place. Whoever lives there next is going to have higher electric bills now that the tree is gone, and they’re going to have to waste so much water trying to keep their grass alive. It’s so stupid!

I don’t care if ppl leave their lawn uncut or unkempt or if they’ve got weeds or if they haven’t power washed their driveway or taken their trash bins in or whatever. But I do care when they make stupid and wasteful decisions that harm the environment like killing a giant oak tree, just so they can turn a profit! It’s so stupid and I hope they lose money on this.

[chai-ky]

Hey y'all! It's pretty bad down here in Texas. No heat. No power. No water. So if you want to donate to help us out, we'd really appreciate it. Also friendly reminder that the 25,000+ homeless in Texas are suffering disproportionately, so if you can, please give to them.

Austin Mutual Aid is raising funds to book hotel rooms for residents living outside without water or shelter.

The Texas-based Ending Community Homelessness Coalition has put together a list of organizations that are currently working to support unsheltered people in Austin and Travis County.

The Solid Ground Ministry is now serving as a cold weather shelter for families and individuals. You can donate to their operations here.

The organization Maximizing Hope is raising money in order to purchase hotel rooms for people in the Austin area.

Dallas-area organizations Austin Street Center, OurCalling, The Stewpot, Union Gospel Mission, and Oak Lawn United Methodist Church are pooling money together to pay for temporary shelter as well as COVID-19 rapid tests for those in need.

Plus, if you live in Texas and do have power, you can also help your neighbors by trying to conserve electricity as much as possible. Find best practices here.

I recognize that a lot of these places are church based, so here's some non-Christian organizations to donate to if you'd rather do that:

Donate a care package to Integral Care

Pets and animal shelters are also in danger, so give to Austin Pets Alive

Dallas Stop Evictions is moving people off the streets and into hotels, as well as providing them with food, water, clothing, and toiletries

And of course, donate to local mutual aid funds:

Austin Mutual Aid Venmo: @austinmutualaidhotels

Dallas Mutual Aid

Venmo: @feedthepeopledallas

Houston Mutual Aid

Venmo:@mutualaidhou

North Texas Mutual Aid ��� Website and Facebook

Feel free to add on and please reblog.

[chain-unchained]

Camilla Hollows Pt. 1

November 14th again. Another year, another birthday to not celebrate. Vincent’s father didn’t even so much as acknowledge the now 28 year old as he headed out the oak front door of their lavish estate. Too busy planning the next town ordinance.

Vincent wonders what his sire will outlaw next. Just a week ago he’d gotten the city council to ban unique hedge shapes for residential lawns. Says it makes neighborhoods look tacky. A waste of taxpayer’s money if you ask Vincent, but, well, nobody does.

His long legs take long strides towards his car, parked amongst the three others in the driveway. The 2016 Volvo stands out like a sore thumb against the vintage makes in their pastel colors, which look washed out against the almost wintergreen tint that cloaks the whole town.  

The engine purrs to life, and Vincent takes a second to look at his reflection in the rearview mirror as he adjusts it. Marigold eyes gaze back at him, and he runs his large hand through his dark hair. He just had it cut this afternoon—undercut, rather. He has to have it like that, else it grows in far too thick to manage. Danica did a good job cutting it this time.

From the pocket of the jean jacket he’s wearing he retrieves a thin hair tie and tugs the rest into a short ponytail. His phone, he takes from the pocket of his jeans and sets on the charging port in the dash. The seatbelt is tight against his muscular chest, but the seat is already pushed back as far as it can go to accommodate his long legs.

The car reverses out of the long driveway and onto the street, and he heads off towards the center of town. Towards the local watering hole to drown his first-world problems in some free booze.

 ###

 He pulls up outside of Talia’s Tavern and makes his way inside. The interior is dark and cramped, both with chintzy furniture and people. The clientele  is all young, the kind of folk that the conservative bar across town won’t serve. Many are dressed in dark clothing, though there are plenty who are practically blinding in their garishness. A few witches have set up their fortune telling booth in one corner, but they only give readings to the girls. And more than a few same-sex couples are busy sucking face throughout the establishment.

The speakers pump out the low wub-wubs of dubstep and the air is thick with the smell of scented vape pens and weed. Both of course were banned in Camilla Hollows, which was why they were being smoked indoors. Talia didn’t care much to enforce B.S. laws like that.

“Hey, there’s the birthday boy himself.”

Talia’s voice calls out to Vincent as he passed through the door. She waves him up to the bar, the bracelets on her wrists jingling together with the motion.

“So, what did your old man get you this year?”

She slides him a full mug of lager as he takes a seat.

“Same as last year,” he takes a sip and licks the foam from his upper lip, “jack shit. Too busy trying to codify how long the grass on lawns can be.”

“Yeah, sounds about right. I’m sorry, hon.”

He shrugs and takes another sip. It’s a self-inflicted misery. He’s more than old enough to live on his own, but he’s reluctant to give up the comfy lifestyle his family name afforded him. Besides, by werewolf standards, he’s just barely a teenager.

“Me and the girls got you a little something-something.”

A little red box is presented to him. He sets the mug down.

“Talia, you didn’t—”

“Shush. I don’t want to hear it.”

He rubs his forehead and sighs. The box is covered in a thin layer of velvet, and held closed by a golden ribbon. He tugs it off and opens the lid. Inside are a pair of—

“Really?” He looks back at her disdainfully. “You got me silver earcuffs?”

She snickers. “They’re painted. Jadewood. Got you good though, didn’t we?”

“Yeah, that shit’s real funny to joke about.”

Hesitantly he picks them up—thank God they really weren’t silver—and snaps them onto his left ear. “Thanks.”

“Hey, it’s the least I can do for my favorite fur baby.”

“… Don’t call me that.”

Back to the beer and to his brooding. Another year, and he still hasn’t done anything with his life. No job, and he's half-assing his classes at the university. It was hard to put in the effort when he didn’t even know what he wanted to do yet.

A few minutes pass, and someone comes to stand beside Vincent’s seat.

“Oh, yours is a face I don’t recognize.”

Vincent’s pointed ears twitch slightly. Strangers in town are rare.

The stranger gives a weary smile from behind oversized spectacles as he takes a seat. “Yeah, I’m… not from around here. What’s the cheapest drink you have?”

“I’ve got a pale ale for $4.”

“That, please…”

“Coming right up. As soon as I see some I.D.”

The bespectacled stranger produces it, and she studies it with a critical eye.

“A Texas license? You’re a long ways from home.”

“It isn’t my home anymore.”

“Don’t blame ya.” She hands it back and goes to pour him his drink. Vincent sets his mug down and sniffs. The hops were covering up the unmistakable scent of—

“Here you are.”

Talia sets the mug down in front of the stranger, and he pays in crumpled singles. “And this is for you, Vince.” She sets a single cupcake on a plate in front of him. A lit candle dances in the pink swirled frosting. “Happy birthday~”

“…. Thanks, Tal.” The sarcasm drips from his voice as she places a cheap paper birthday hat on his head.

“Oh, today’s your birthday?” The stranger gives him another weary smile and raises his mug. “It’s mine too. Well, happy birthday, er…”

“… Vincent.”

“Happy birthday, Vincent.”

The glasses clink softly together.

After a minute, “Can’t say it back if I don’t know your name too.”

“O-Oh. Right, sorry. Benjamin. Just Ben is fine.”

“Happy birthday Ben.” Vincent slides the cupcake towards him. “You want this? I hate sweet shit.”

Behind the thick square rims, Ben’s green eyes are wide. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah. Have it.”

“Oh sure,” Talia looks up from pouring another beer and squints his way, “just give away my gifts why don’t you?”

“It’s your fault for giving it to me when you know I don’t do sugar.”

“Er—”

Ben is hesitant to eat it now, but Talia waves a hand his way.

“We’re joking, sweetie. Go ahead and eat it. You need the calories more than Mr. Macho here anyway.”

“O… Okay. Thank you.”

He blows out the candle and picks it out so he can take a bite, and Vincent studies him out of the corner of his eye. Talia’s right. He looks like a walking stick, hidden beneath a tartan cardigan three sizes too large—he has to keep shrugging the sleeves up past his wrists just to use his hands. His legs look like a pair of twigs in skinny jeans, and the whole ensemble is covered in patchwork squares.

“You know,” Talia comes back over to them and leans on the bar, “we don’t get many out of towners. What brings you to the Pacific Northwest?”

“Well…” Ben shifts uncomfortably. “I… let’s just say that I’m not exactly welcome back home anymore. I heard that it’s a little more… accepting up here.”

[wiremagazine]

DESTINATIONS: DALLAS, TX -WHERE EVERYTHING IS BIGGER...

By Michael W. Sasser | Photos provided by VisitDallas

They (as probably defined by locals there) claim that everything is bigger in Texas. And while the truth of the assertion might take a little first-hand investigation, there is this: whatever your interest, exploring Dallas is a lot of fun. It might not be the capital of the state (Austin), nor the largest city in the state (Houston), nor the hipster city in the state (back to Austin). But in terms of quintessential Texas… you got it.

Cue the Dallas theme song. Admit it, you heard it in your head as soon as you read that last sentence if you are even close to old enough to remember who shot J.R.

However, cowboy – and rural – driven Dallas might have once been, today is a huge, thriving metropolis with everything one would expect from a city its size anywhere in the country. It's a driver's town, so don't expect public transportation to help you much and don't think you will be able to get around with just a map. This is one of the cities for which you will need Siri or her ilk. Drivers are fast and aggressive, it's crowded and if you aren't careful, somehow, amazingly, every road you take will get you to the airport. Yes, it's a mystery.

But settle in somewhere nice, plan your itinerary and you are in for a Texas-size dose of entertainment. 

So, where to settle in? The glitz and glamor of the Ritz Carlton Dallas is appealing to some. More boutique if no less gorgeous is the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. The impossibly named  Hotel ZaZa Dallas is a full-service spa setting. The Adolphus is stylish and has long had a reputation for elegance. All of that said, Dallas has many accommodations as it does cowboy hats... well, maybe not that many. Since crossing town during high travel times can be a nightmare, the best bet is to choose somewhere close to the parts of town or attractions in which you plan to spend most of your time. Dallas is best enjoyed when one is not commuting. 

One's itinerary could be quite diverse. You could spend days exploring Dallas culture. Yes, Dallas has culture – and lots of it. The Dallas Museum of Art is spectacular, taking a full day at least to take everything in. The Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center is memorable. The same is true of Winspear Opera House. It is entirely possible to plan an entire week in Dallas around the visual and performing arts calendar. Then, for some fresh air, step out to the spectacular Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens or White Rock Lake Park.

If history is your thing, it's hard not to first consider The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, one of Texas' most visited historic sites, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza chronicles the life, death and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The Museum is in the former Texas School Book Depository building, from which Kennedy was shot. Let's stick with allegedly shot just to keep the peace. There are numerous related tours if you want to experience the whole route of Kennedy that dreadful day in history. Morbid? Maybe, but is also an essential Dallas experience that will impact your view of one of the most historic events in 20th century U.S. history.

All that culture and slightly creepy history might make you hungry and Dallas is a good place to have an appetite. Dallas is a lot more than Texas bbq and steaks. Oh, do understand. The bbq is legendary for a good reason – think brisket in this part of the country. And steaks? Well, those steaks you spend half a paycheck on at home in Miami, in Washington D.C. or New York. Well, search around the Dallas area – or the vicinity of most cities in the orbit of Texas – and you will find a better steak at a fraction of the price crafted by a veteran steak-maker who wastes no time also making quiche and avocado toast. Now, while you remember that, also keep in mind this is a major international city in the West – so from Mexican to Japanese to elegant dining – it's all here.

Try Tex-Mex, great ceviches, and eclectic spins at Jose. Upscale that with international influences at Tulum. Go Asian at Namo and get on the latest hipster train and indulge at the amazing Khao Noodle Shop (a must). Macellaio, a charcuterie-focused spinoff of another local favorite, offers something completely different – a terrific culinary landmark.

For bbq, it's hard to really go wrong and the competition is fierce. Without leaving Dallas proper and in no particular order (hey, I am no fool...), think Peggy Sue BBQ, Smokey's John's Bar-B-Que (save room for the peach cobbler dessert), and the classic Mac's Bar-B-Que. There are many others, many, many others. Skip the chains and go with Nick & Sam's, Knife Dallas or Pappas Bros. Steakhouse for a nice steakhouse. Or virtually any independent for a more affordable, but more traditional steak experience. It is hard to go wrong. Serve a bad steak in Dallas and well... good luck to you...

After dinner, don't miss Dallas nightlife. It's an energetic, pulsating scene that while isn't as artsy or alternative as Austin or as cutting edge as the Coast, is not to be missed. The ample gay community in Dallas isn't as integrated as it is in Miami – there are distinct gayborhoods, at least for nightlife. Oak Lawn is the upscale district known for Cedar Springs Road, the heart of the city's gay scene. It's lined with lively bars and DJ-driven clubs, country western dancing, drag – and it comes alive particularly on weekends.

Following an eclectic itinerary and weekend nights out in Dallas, you will be well prepared to answer the whole everything is bigger in Texas thing...

Michael W. Sasser has been a travel writer for more than 20 years, for publishers ranging from Time Out and Frommer's to Miami Herald Custom Publishing and ABARTA Media. He is author of thousands of travel stories and dozens of travel books. Reach him at mikewsasser@yahoo.com.

This was originally published in Wire Magazine Issue 3.2019

[kangacav69]

Garden Center San Antonio Bandera

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[poop4u]

Raising a Dog in the Country

#Poop4U

The post Raising a Dog in the Country by Nikki Moustaki appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Rural dog training

Rural dogs have more freedom than city dogs, but that comes with its own set of training challenges, all of them for the safety of the dog and the people and other critters he encounters.

Photography ©KariHoglund | Getty Images

“I had to teach Sofi not to kill our chickens,” says Berta Bader, a full-time student from Boise, Idaho, of her 11-year-old Miniature Poodle. “I supervised Sofi with the chickens and distracted her when she looked at them. Next step was a lot of praise every time she ignored the chickens. Now chicken killing is not her main focus.”

Lisa G. Shaffer, PhD, from Spokane, Washington, has trained her four dogs — two Dachshunds and two Saint Bernards — to stop on command.

“We don’t want our wiener dogs in with our miniature horses,” Lisa says. “The horses don’t like the small dogs, and we worry that they’ll get stepped on. If we say stop, they stop and wait for us to pick them up, or it gets their attention and we can call them back.”

Shannon Bridwell of Greer, South Carolina, lives with two Greyhounds and five Ibizan Hounds. “A lot of rural dogs have issues with barking, reactivity and other behavioral concerns associated with a lack of socialization, training, and mental and physical stimulation,” she says. “A lot of rural owners do not take their dogs out as often as city people do.”

Sharma Sonntag of Lander, Wyoming, who lives with three Rat Terriers, says that rural dogs need to be trained not to chase wildlife and that they should be “snake trained” as well.

Emily Hurt of Sherman, Texas, who lives with seven Border Collies, says that the biggest training must-have for a rural dog is good check-in  behavior. “I know when I’m out on the property I can count on my dogs to check in with me periodically just to be sure they know where I am. This is reinforced from the time that they’re very young, and it’s something I make sure to continuously reinforce and strengthen as the dogs go through different stages of maturity.”

Photography ©eAlisa | Getty Images ©ktmoffitt | Getty Images

Country dog health

Rural dogs need flea and tick control, heartworm prevention, the leptospirosis vaccine and intestinal parasite control, says Lisa Whitney, DVM, from St. Johnsbury, Vermont.

Emily also says that the biggest health must is staying up to date on preventives. “All of my Border Collies naturally seem to avoid or ignore snakes, but my Jack Russell was a master snake hunter back in the day,” she says. “I gave her the rattlesnake vaccine a few times. I didn’t want to be in a bad spot and have her completely unprotected.”

Wendy also believes in preventive care due to the country dogs’ love of nature’s snacks. “Deer poop looks like doggo kibble, turkey poop looks like ice cream, and dead mice and rodents are part of life in the country,” she says. “They’re all delicious to dogs. Got to keep them on the worm preventives.”

Other animals pose a big hazard to the country dog, from snakes to predators, from rabid animals to those who seem like not much of a threat, like deer.

“Petey once thought a deer reclining under an oak tree was our late Greyhound, Magic,” says Wendy of her Chihuahua. “When he went to say hi, the deer hoofed him! He had a huge gash across his torso. Thankfully it didn’t need stitches, but he learned his lesson — and I did, too!”

Linda Chekanow of Sparta, North Carolina, has also had an unexpected experience with a dog and a deer. “Waffles, my Chihuahua mix, fell in love with a doe who kept coming into the fenced acre where we have our fruit trees and chickens,” Linda says. “They ran along the fence together, like playing. After several days the deer turned up in our garden one evening at dusk. Before I could stop him, Waffles went running full speed to her, barking all the way. She eyeballed him, and when he got close enough, she raised one hoof and kicked him. He came yipping back to the door with poop hanging out of his butt! It sounds funny now, but at the time I was scared he might have been hurt. Luckily nothing was broken but his heart.”

Susan Daffron of Sandpoint, Idaho, says that her dogs are never left unsupervised and that they are always on leash, confined in a fenced area or inside the house. “One of our neighbors had their dog stomped on by a moose, which broke the dog’s back. Other dogs in the area have been shot by property owners because the dog was messing with their livestock, such as eating chickens.”

Weather can also pose a health danger. Make sure that your dog stays hydrated in hot weather, especially if he has a thick coat.

“Frostbite can be a hazard, and poor visibility during snowstorms can cause disorientation,” says Kelly Leathers from Vail, Colorado, who lives with Lily, a 10-year-old Newfoundland/Golden Retriever mix. “If you live in a mountainous region, avalanches can be a serious risk. This year there was an avalanche almost every day. Many dog parents choose to put a beacon on their canine companions.”

Even plants in the environment can cause a dog pain and illness. When Sharma worked as a veterinary technician, a young Springer Spaniel, Yukon, was brought into the clinic with thousands of foxtails embedded in his body. The owners wanted the dog euthanized.

“He had them in his ear, his legs, belly, neck, pretty much everywhere,” Sharma says. “I adopted him and then spent nine months removing foxtails and getting him well. Yukon went on to be a therapy dog.”

Challenges and advantages

“We run into a major issue with off-leash, unsocialized dogs,” Shannon says. “There’s a mentality in the country that dogs can just run loose. We can’t even take walks on our road because there are so many loose dogs. I also feel that many rural dogs do not get the same level of socialization and intentional exercise because owners rely on big yards and don’t take the dogs out very often.”

Lisa says that her Dachshund, Trixie, is an excellent mouser, and that if they don’t watch her, the dog will tear up the garden. “She has destroyed a lawn mower trying to get to a mouse nest, torn up sprinklers trying to get to mice, has dug under the deck — basically she’s always in search of mice,” Lisa says.

Rural dogs also find strange things because many are allowed to roam and explore their land.

“My Collie, Emma, brought home an empty tortoise shell,” says Terry Albert, who lives in Poway, California, with four dogs. “Another time she brought home the head of a steer my neighbor had butchered. He had thrown the head into the nearby brush.”

Life as a country dog also has many advantages, and there are advantages for dog lovers as well. Most rural areas allow people to keep many more dogs than they could in a city or the suburbs.

Country Pup Hazards

Embrace Pet Insurance’s data shows that their top five claims for rural dogs are:

✯  Cranial cruciate ligament tear

✯  Allergy

✯  Seizure

✯  Lymphoma

✯  UTI

Embrace concludes that perhaps dogs who have property or larger yards aren’t always leash walked and have access to unrestricted running (leading to cruciate ligament tears), versus city dogs, which tend to be leash-trained.

Other hazards facing rural dogs include:

✯  Ticks and other biting bugs

✯  Skunk (getting sprayed isn’t fatal, but it’s inconvenient)

✯  Porcupine

✯  Venomous snakes

✯  Foxtail grass

✯  Poisonous plants

✯  Predators + other critters: Mountain lions (also known as cougars, bobcats, coyotes, bears, wild boars, deer, moose, elk, hawks, eagles, owls and raccoons

✯  Rabid animals

✯  Cars zipping down country roads

✯  Unfriendly people and dogs

The post Raising a Dog in the Country by Nikki Moustaki appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Poop4U Blog via www.Poop4U.com Nikki Moustaki, Khareem Sudlow

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Kids Tree Houses – Many Hours of Fun Year-round

Kids Tree Houses – Many Hours of Fun Year-round Outdoor Living

, Kids Tree Houses – Many Hours of Fun Year-round,

Children love to spend time outdoors and explore their sense of adventure in kids tree houses. As a parent, ensuring that your children have an interesting and safe place to play outdoors in the yard means children who are having fun and letting their imagination take over.

As long as you teach your children the basics of safety as they climb up and down their kids tree house, you will be able to help your children play plenty of imaginative games while they spend their time constructively and energetically.

Kids Tree House Ideas

A tree house will free your child’s imagination and become a castle, a ship, an island, a spaceship, or a new planet, depending only on their current interests. By building a sturdy tree house in your backyard you will be gifting your child hours of fun over the years.

While kids tree houses are a fun play area in the outdoors, parents need to ensure that young children are supervised when using it. Also, a tree house can cause stress to the tree, so select only mature trees that can withstand the weight of the tree house and its occupants.

If possible spread the weight of the tree house over more than one tree or branch. You might also need to obtain local and municipal permits before you build a tree house.

Constant trampling of the soil around the kids tree house will compact it, making it difficult for the roots to breathe. As such you need to take additional care of the soil around the tree house each year, adding more compost or loosening the soil to prevent damage to the tree.

Ask your landscape expert to check the soil around the base of the tree and treat it to prevent long term damage to your tree and tree house.

Effect of the Wind on the kids tree house

A strong wind will make the tree house function like a sail and put additional pressure on the truck of the tree. To minimize this stress, you need to place the tree house a third of the way from the base of the truck, not further up.

Best Trees for Tree Houses

The first step to building a tree house is selecting the right tree. Ideally, pick a hardwood tree such as oak, hemlock, beech, or fir. The load bearing branches should be at least 8 inches in diameter.

While the branches need not be very high, they should be high enough that people do not bump their heads against the floor of the tree house as they walk past.

Build the Tree House Platform

The platform for the tree house should be built as close to the main trunk as possible. Moreover, it should be braced using diagonal bracing that is secured to the base of the trunk.

The tree house platform is unlikely to be a square, but that is okay, as long as the platform balances well and can support people on it.

Leave Space for Tree Growth

When building the platform and roof, leave some space, two or three inches around the trunk to allow for future growth. This will ensure that the tree is not constricted or strangled.

Keep the Tree House Floor Level

Before you build the rest of the tree house, you need to ensure that the platform or floor is level. This can be done by spreading the weight of the platform across other tress or branches, or bracing the weight against the main trunk or cantilevering the platform.

Assemble the Kids Tree House at Ground Level

Before building the walls and roof of the tree house on the platform, complete as much of the tasks at ground level as you can. This means assembling the walls and roof at ground level, and taking the help of another person to hoist them to the platform where they can be fixed as needed.

Floating Bracket Support

One of the main issues with building a tree house is ensuring that the tree is not damaged and it continues to grow. You can use floating bracket supports that do not cause much harm to the tree. They are flexible and ensure that the tree continues to grow.

You should use large bolts instead of through bolts since this will cause less harm to the trunk. Also, you need to use fewer large bolts instead of many small bolts since the latter will cause more damage to the tree.

A tree which is not damaged and constricted by the tree house will live longer, enabling the kids tree house to survive for a longer period of time without any danger to the children and kids who play in it and underneath it.

The post Kids Tree Houses – Many Hours of Fun Year-round appeared first on OLT.

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Austin: Postcards from places.

It’s a common thing for tourists to pick a single item in each place they travel to. I guess it’s kinda a cool idea- I mean then you have items that remind you of all your travels. On a trip like this I can’t exactly start collecting pottery mug or anything though (although y’all know how much I love a hand crafted item). Besides that, I’m also trying to *cut down* on my own personal possessions as I make steps towards moving into my future cabin at Red Clay. Collecting items like that feels slightly less personal/sentimental than I usually am, anyways. For the past few years of my life I’ve been collecting postcards which I keep in my top drawer for sentimental emergencies. They are postcards from all over the world that my friend’s have sent me. Some of them are silly (like one my friend grace sent me of a burnt piece of toast, without much written on it-- adding to the mystery of it) & some filled entirely up on the back with worlds of love & amazing stories. For the past few years, I’ve been collecting postcards for myself as well. Postcards are abundant when travelling generally (except in Colombia I learned). I make sure to sit down at a cafe soon after buying one & write a little note to myself. Like a diary entry on how I’m doing, what I’m experiencing & what I hope for myself in the future. I mean- these are the best gifts to myself I could ask for honestly. An added bonus is that they are beautiful on the outside & don’t take up much room at all. It’s really a win-win-wine x million. 

______________________________________________

Austin has a very particular aesthetic to it. I mean, I can’t tell if it’s just millennial aesthetic taking over, or it’s were that aesthetic was kinda born. I think it may be the latter, though. Like any big city, of course there is aspects on anonymity in terms of grey skyscrapers. In the parts of town that aren’t populated with them, there is a lots of colours to explore. If you liked mural art, Austin would be the perfect spot for an art walk of sorts- I mean, I’ve unintentionally kinda been doing that myself. There are some really famous ones like “you’re my butter half”, “I love you so much” & of course the “welcome to austin” one. There are also TONES of Willie Nelson, who is basically the unofficial mascot (or spiritual mayor or something). Also. I will note that Matthew Mcconaghey does the announcements for the Austin metro system. I was sitting there going “wow that voice is familiar” & then he literally said “it’d be pretty cooool if you did” in regards to keeping the bus clean. I just about fainted. And then I really wanted to watched Dazed & Confused again. 

Austin has a thriving food truck & drive-thru culture. Which sounds potentially tacky & disengaged, but it’s actually very cool. I mean- this is still a place that says “howdy” completely unironically... but now it makes me question if that is really as grampa-ish as a sentence as I mean most of the food trucks have lawns or picnic tables that you can sit outside on etc. All the trucks are all decked out with cool graphics & paintings too. Or they are in really cool airstream trailers. Volkswagen bus’ are abundant here as well. I wouldn’t be entirely shocked to learn there is also a thriving micro-home community as well. I really feels like the vibe of this city- modern, but with one toe in the past, just out of sentimentality. There is also a huge chunk of kitsch met with a self-awareness that makes the city a really fun place to be. I mean it’s light hearted enough. People are here to have a good time & enjoy being young. In a very Montreal kind-of-way there are a lot of people zooming around on bikes,& yoga in the park, yada yada. Aesthetically speaking, Austin sure does love their neon signs too. They also love a good round lightbulb. And decorating their trees in lights all year round.   Walking around South Congress has been my favourite thing to do so far. The stores are quirky, but also filled with a lot of locally made art. There is still a maintained “you are in the heart of Texas” vibe to it. Tex-mex style & food all around. Skulls, colours, leather good, crosses, tin sculptures. In this neck of the woods there are also some great costumes & Vintage stores which I had to try my very best to shut my eyes in. Of course I find myself being my own personal juke box walking around these streets. Singing Willie Nelson, Kacey Musgraves & Paul Simon songs. I feels like a really happy, sunshine-y city. Even in grey, cold weather, I myself have been very happy and sunny too. Just enjoying being. 

And eating. I’ve really really been enjoying eating. Which has been a struggle for me for the last year or so. But I’m really falling in love with food again. Between the amazing Ramen here, and the Tex-Mex & the Southern-comfort food. Equally, I’ve really been enjoying excersizing & riding bikes. I can’t wait to get my bike back home all tuned up again. (I haven’t ridden it since I got into a bad bike accident a couple years ago & re: kicked my concussion again). I feel excited again about my life back home (not that it ever really went away, but you know, it feels shiny and new again). I’m happy. 

________________________________________

I am feeling strangely about time. I think it’s because I’m feeling a shift coming up, with the upcoming trip to the Ashram. To prepare, I’ve been trying to stretch & meditate on my own more regularly again, although I’ve been struggling with the discipline of it all a little bit. Mostly in terms of the sitting for a long time. I feel too wiggly & ready for adventure. But my abundant mind-energy is something I’m working on soothing & making friends with again- and not let her run as wild as she always craves to do.

I have made more efforts to ground myself in my life back home a little bit more, which honestly feels good again. I’m going to be secretary of the Red Clay Studio this year. I’m getting excited to go back to the farm & to start getting affairs in order for White Rabbit. I’ve been speaking to lots of friends back home, and in Ontario. I didn’t realize how big of a deal it’d be to spend time back where I’m from. I am an ocean girl through & through these days. But there are things about Ontario that are important to me too & I haven’t given myself anytime in the last 5 years to really sit with them. I’m glad I’ll get to spend a lot of time in the country out there though. Because after so much city time, I know I can really ground that way. (Although I did try a grounding excersize by “holding hands” with a cactus... not a spike-y one... but it felt right. Anyways, it was definitely less affective than the oak trees in Louisiana. So I found some other trees & made friends with the loud birds that lived in them & had a little ritual for myself in the half-sun.)

I booked my trip to Europe too. The last leg of my trip. I feel time pulling quickly towards me again. Greece has been the trip my sisters & I have talked about for our whole lives & it’s finally happening. I’m gonna meet my extended family & see where my grandparents grew up. It’s gonna be super special. ...And then I’m flying right back into Halifax & going to crash back into my life again. I guess I should start looking for apartments too- but I’m not quite ready for that yet. 

I think it’ll be easier to be silly around people I know again. I’ve had a very adult-hat on. Which is probably good for me. I’m taking good care of myself & being firm with strangers. (Including multiple strange men that have invited me back to their apartments without any prompting.) I talked to Bria again on the phone yesterday, because she had to notify me that she bought a Donkey in Morocco. Which made me laugh really hard & filled me up with silliness that I’ve missed. 

I’m learning that there is a difference between adventure & travel. Travel is more about changing space. Adventure could be near or far, but it’s about experimentation with life itself. If that makes sense. You can travel without adventure. You can Adventure two blocks from where you grew up. I hope I am doing both on this trip. 

[greentoplawncare-blog]

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Native Trees from the Four Corners of the Country

A big trend in gardening is growing native plants. This began with wildflowers, but it has spread to trees and shrubs too, especially with all the alarming stories of invasive species escaping gardens and interfering with the natural ecology of wild areas. These plants can cause significant problems, so many gardeners want to grow native plants, making their gardening fit in more closely with the environment. They want to feel more in tune with the natural world around them. When you are thinking of planting a tree – or several – making a choice from a selection of native trees is especially important, since trees live so long, become large, and make a significant contribution for good or bad to the local environment.

What then, would be a suitable native tree for your area? Is it enough to just plant a tree that grows somewhere in North America? Probably not, yet that would satisfy the ‘native tree’ rule. A tree from Texas might feel out of place in New Hampshire, and it makes a lot of sense to grow something more suitable. A more local tree will be better adapted to your climate, soil, and rainfall pattern, so it is more likely to succeed. For every alien plant that escapes and takes over, there are a dozen that grow poorly in any given place, because the climate and conditions don’t suit them.

With all that in mind, let’s look at some trees that come from the four corners of the country – the north-east, south-east, south-west and north-west. Whatever area you live in, there are going to be local trees that will grow well for you. It makes sense to choose trees that grow in your area, even if not growing exactly where you are. That way you will be respecting the local ecology of your region much more.

Native Trees for the North-east

When we think of this area, our minds automatically turn to the tree that brings millions every year to admire its beauty – the Sugar Maple, Acer saccharum. Not only spectacular in fall, with its stunning shades of golds and oranges, this tree is also useful, as the source of maple syrup. You may not decide to tap your own tree for that natural bounty, but you can certainly add to the spectacle in fall by growing this grand tree. It is a large tree, so remember not to plant it too close to a building and give it plenty of room to show off its great beauty.

For something native and beautiful for the other end of the growing season, look no further than the White Dogwood, Cornus florida. Native through all but the coldest parts of the east, this choice tree is a real highlight of spring. At that time it is covered with large white ‘blossoms’ that are in reality modified leaves surrounding the tiny true flowers. These make a wonderful show on a tree that usually grows 15 to 30 feet tall in a garden environment, but can grow a lot taller in the wild, after enough years have passed. With its bright red fall colors too, this tree certainly gives the lie to those who say that native trees are boring compared to alien species.

Native Trees for the South-east

Another place to look for native trees in the east generally is among the oaks. These symbols of longevity make wonderful shade trees, and among the best is the native Willow Oak, (Quercus phellos), a tree that grows from New Jersey to northern Florida, so could reasonably be grown anywhere along the east coast. This magnificent tree can grow to 80 feet tall, and it makes a great shade tree for a large lawn. In fall it turns lovely shades of golden yellow, with some red tones as well. Although it won’t grow in standing water, it loves areas that are damp, so if you have a damp garden, this is a wonderful choice from among our native trees.

We can’t mention the South without considering the Southern Magnolia, Magnolia grandiflora. This iconic tree is a true native child, stunning the early explorers with its enormous pure white and fragrant flowers. An evergreen, as many trees from warmer places are, it is the perfect native choice all through the southern states, into Florida and along the Gulf. This is a tree that can be very variable, so it pays to choose a selected variety. That way you get reliable size and structure, with good flowering even on younger plants. Of the larger forms, the one known as ‘Claudia Wannamaker’ is considered the best.

Native Trees for the South-west

Climate conditions in the South-west are very variable, ranging from the balmy climate of San Diego and southern California, to the arid conditions of New Mexico, and the cold of Colorado.

A tree that will span all those conditions is the Western Redbud, Cercis occidentalis. This flowering tree will reach 15 feet in time, and every spring it is covered in the most spectacular display of pink-purple blooms, all over the bare branches. Unlike its Eastern relative, this redbud is drought-resistant and heat-resistant too. The lovely heart shaped leaves make it a charming tree in summer, and the fall colors are often brilliant red and golds – an ideal all-season flowering tree for smaller spaces.

Native Trees for the North-east

Conditions further north tend to be cooler, and sometimes wetter, although in many parts dryness is still normal. A good group to look at for useful native plants are the junipers. These tough evergreens survive cold, heat and drought, always looking good. They thrive in hot sun too, so if you are looking for tough plants, look no further. Many of the junipers grown in gardens are not native, but one that is would be the Rocky Mountain Juniper, Juniperus scopulorum. This upright conifer can reach 10 or 15 feet in height, but stays much narrower, perhaps 4 to 6 feet wide. That makes it ideal for screening, or as a specimen. With these trees foliage color is important, and a top variety, with brilliant blue leaves, is ‘Moonglow’. Just as tough as the wild tree, it survives right down into zone 3, but also takes moderate heat and it is very drought resistant. For low-maintenance native plants in dry areas, Moonglow Juniper is a top pick.

Make Your Choice

These are just a sample of the native trees available, that are wonderful choices for the environmentally conscious, without giving up on beauty and top growth. All of them are easy to grow. They are also adaptable enough that if you aren’t a purist, and don’t care where exactly your native trees come from, you can grow them all across this fine country of ours, from sea to shining sea.

Native Trees from the Four Corners of the Country published first on https://www.thetreecenter.com

[blackpjensen]

WNLA’s 100th Anniversary Honored With Proclamation From Governor: This Week’s Industry News

Want to keep up with the latest news in lawn care and landscaping? Check back every Thursday for a quick recap of recent happenings in the green industry.

Governor Issues Proclamation Honoring WNLA’s 100th Anniversary Commemorating its 100th Anniversary, Governor Scott Walker issued a State of Wisconsin Gubernatorial Proclamation on January 3, 2018 officially declaring it as Wisconsin Nursery & Landscape Association Day (WNLA). Governor Walker presented the Proclamation to WNLA President Ross Swartz in a ceremony at the State Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin. Also on hand were WNLA Board members and officers, Executive Director Brian Swingle, Representative Paul Tittl of Wisconsin’s 25th Assembly District, and Representative Amy Loudenbeck of the 31st Assembly District. The Proclamation recognizes the economic impact of WNLA and acknowledges the environmental and social impact of nursery plants and landscaping, mentioning the benefits of erosion control, noise abatement, water filtration and purification, air quality improvement, oxygen production, energy savings, community beautification and pride, plus the advantage to wildlife and pollinators that a robust landscape provides. The Wisconsin Nursery and Landscape Association serves the Green industry and its 225 members, which include growers, landscapers, and industry suppliers. WNLA is celebrating its 100th Anniversary with events in 2018.

MGIX Kicks Off January 15 with Powerhouse Lineup The Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association’s regional conference, Midwest Green Industry Experience (MGIX) takes place January 15-17 at the Columbus Convention Center. Featured presenters include Marty Grunder (Attain, Train, Retain and Entertain a Modern Day Green Industry Workforce), Jeffrey Scott (Nine Proven Profit Strategies for Tree Lawn and Landscape Contractors). In addition to business education, the MGIX is loaded with courses on pruning, plant maintenance, identifying weeds and planning pest management strategies. It also includes a State of the Industry report by Craig Regelbrugge, AmericanHort.

Portland’s New Pesticide Ban Expected to be Costly Beginning July 1, 2019, residents and city workers will no longer be able to freely use synthetic pesticides in Maine’s largest city, except in a few limited cases, reports the Portland Press Herald. The City Council on January 3 unanimously passed an ordinance regulating pesticide use in Portland. Advocates say it’s one of strongest anti-pesticide ordinances in the country, with scofflaws facing potential fines ranging from $100 to $500. Portland will start using organic pesticides on all city-owned properties beginning this summer. The only exempt properties will be Hadlock Field, Riverside Golf Course and five high-use athletic fields that remain exempt until 2021. City staff estimates that the ordinance could cost up to $700,000 to implement. Those costs would cover new employees, equipment and up to a $250,000 set-aside to replace the turf on athletic fields.

WaterSmart Innovations Conference Issues Call for Abstracts Experts in the field of urban water efficiency are invited to submit abstracts for the 11th annual WaterSmart Innovations Conference and Exposition (WSI), slated for October 3-5 in Las Vegas. Abstracts must be submitted to speakers no later than Monday, February 26. Professionals, scientists, government employees, organizations, public and private institutions, policy makers, students and all others working in an industry related to water efficiency are invited to submit an abstract for an oral presentation, panel discussion or workshop. A complete list of topics and submittal guidelines is available at the WSI website. Candidates chosen as presenters will be notified by email and postal mail no later than Monday, April 30.

Industry Consultant Dan Pestretto Forming Peer Groups Landscape business consultant/coach Dan Pestretto is forming “Mastermind Peer Groups” focused on helping owners build businesses that work for them. The groups will be based on honesty, accountability and the sharing of diverse perspectives in a safe haven of confidentiality. Group members will learn how to implement the “Seven Step Business Systemization” plan along with developing a complete operations manual specific to their own company and brand. Pestretto says affordable groups (no more than six members each) are being formed for different revenue-range companies, including companies of $500,000.

CASE Announces “Kickstart” Landscape Business Development Contest CASE Construction Equipment is now accepting entries for the CASE Kickstart Contest, a business development contest where landscaping contractors can win a suite of prizes designed to take their company to the next level. Business owners are encouraged to enter the contest online by answering basic questions about their operation, and describing how they would evolve their services by winning the contest. The deadline for entry is March 30, 2018

Six Landscape Pros Earn Jeffrey Scott’s 2017 Mighty Oak Awards Six outstanding lawn and landscape companies earned business consultant and author Jeffrey Scott’s 2017 Mighty Oak, based on their performance as a business leaders. Scott announced the awards at his Leader’s Edge peer group meetings. The award winners: Seth Kehne, The Lawn Butler, Knoxville, Tenn.; Loriana Harrington Beautiful Blooms Landscape & Design, Menomonee Falls, Wis.; Douglas McIntosh, McIntosh Grounds Maintenance, Milan, Mich.; Bob Drost, Drost Landscape, Petoskey, Mich.; Sean Baxter, Lawn & Landscape Solutions, Olathe, Kan.; and Chris Cotoia, Executive Landscaping, South Yarmouth, Ma.

Website Launch for Drought Tolerant TamStar St. Augustinegrass TamStar St. Augustine is a new drought tolerant, low water use grass developed by turfgrass breeders at Texas A&M University. A new website dedicated to TamStar at tamstargrass.com, was launched recently by the Turfgrass Producers of Texas to serve as a resource for industry professionals and homeowners. The site offers research and information about TamStar’s benefits, installation, maintenance and where to purchase this scientifically advanced sod. TamStar St. Augustine is the result of more than a decade of  research at Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Dallas. It was bred to stand up to drought and specifically meet the demands of commercial and residential lawns and landscapes in Texas.

LiveWall Installed To Bring Comapny’s Corporate Values To Life Applied Imaging installed a 198-square-foot LiveWall Living Wall as the main design element in the lobby of its new corporate headquarters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Applied Imaging is an independently owned provider of document imaging technology and managed IT and network services. LiveWall is the developer and supplier of the green industry’s most sustainable, durable and low-maintenance living wall system. The 198-square-foot living wall is 9 feet tall and 22 feet long. In total, it includes 98 LiveWall modular planters, which contain inserts that hold the growing medium and a mix of six different tropical plants, chosen for their ability to thrive indoors. The integrated irrigation components use drip stake assemblies, which inject water into the growing medium. The light fixtures above the green wall use LiveWall Norb (Nutri-Orb) bulbs, a specialized white-light LED grow bulb that provides the light spectrum and light nutrition plants need while giving off a white light like regular indoor lighting.

Greenworks Commercial And Carswell Establish Partnership Greenworks Commercial, producers of battery-powered outdoor equipment for landscaping and turf management professionals, and Carswell Distributing Company have announced an exclusive partnership to benefit independent lawn and landscape dealers throughout 13 southern states. Through the arrangement, Carswell and Carswell OEI will provide distribution, logistics, service and sales support for both the Greenworks Commercial 82-Volt line of tools and the newly launched Greenworks Elite 40-Volt line of tools, among independent dealers in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Texas and Missouri.

Ruppert Landscape Announces New Branch in Southern Richmond Ruppert Landscape has expanded its Virginia landscape management operations to include a new branch in southern Richmond. This branch joins four existing landscape management branch offices in Virginia located in northern Richmond, Gainesville, Alexandria, and Fredericksburg. Dave Sharry has been promoted to branch manager and tasked with overseeing the new branch. As branch manager, he will be responsible for the overall welfare of the branch, including the safety and development of his team, strategic planning and budgeting, training, and day-to-day operations.

Douglas Dynamics’ Doug Clark Receives Certified Snow Professional Designation Douglas Dynamics LLC, has announced that Doug Clark, product manager for Western Products, has earned his Certified Snow Professional (CSP) designation from the Snow and Ice Management Association (SIMA). Clark joins fellow Douglas Dynamics CSP employees, including Andy McArdle, director of product marketing for Douglas Dynamics, and Daniel Gilliland, training manager for SnowEx. SIMA’s Certified Snow Professional certification was developed for owners, operators, and executives within the snow and ice industry. It focuses on the critical elements of running a professional snow business and recognizes a level of service, quality and value to customers.

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How Europe Built Fences To Keep Individuals Out

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Best Home Remedies for Poison Ivy Dr. Mercola By Dr. Mercola Poison ivy, oak and sumac are closely related plants, and may be found growing in similar environments. In fact, all three grow throughout the U.S. except Hawaii, Alaska and parts of Nevada.1 Poison ivy is found throughout the U.S.; poison sumac is distributed mostly on the East Coast from Maine to Florida; and poison oak is found along the West Coast and the south from Texas to Florida and as far north as Illinois.2 While irritating and uncomfortable, poison ivy is not usually dangerous, unless the oil is aerosolized from burning. Inhaling the fumes can trigger an allergic reaction in your lungs. Nearly three quarters of the population of the U.S. will break out into a rash when exposed to the plant leaves. Only 25 percent appear to be resistant to the contact dermatitis that results from exposure to the oil in the plant.3 The rash can be unbearably itchy if left untreated. However, while your primary care physician may want to prescribe a corticosteroid to address the symptoms, there are much safer treatments you may begin at home that don’t come with a slew of side effects. Steroids are commonly prescribed for a number of different conditions, including contact dermatitis, asthma, ulcerative colitis, cancer and arthritis. They can be given topically, by injection, through inhalation or by mouth. In each case the medication is linked with significant side effects, including fluid retention, elevated blood pressure, osteoporosis, mood swings and increased risk of infection.4 In other words, these are drugs you want to steer clear of as much as possible. Learn to recognize the plant (as prevention is the best medicine) and the treatments you can use at home to alleviate the symptoms as your skin heals. Recognize the Poison Ivy Plant The old adage, “leaves of three, let them be,” is helpful to identify poison ivy and poison oak, but poison sumac grows with seven to 13 leaves on a stem.5 However, depending upon your geographic location, species of the plant and the local environment, even the poison ivy plant may look different. To reduce your chances of coming into contact with the plant, learn how to identify local varieties and differentiate them from other similar looking plants. You may try speaking with your local garden shop, or using online sites such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service,6 or the National Audubon Society Native Plants Database.7 The eastern poison ivy plant (Toxicodendron radicans), typically has small hairs on the leaves and grows on rope-like vines that may grow up a tree or along the ground.8 They have three shiny, green leaves that turn red in the fall. Despite turning color in the fall, the leaves still contain the oil that causes the rash. On the other hand, western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), grows as a low shrub with three leaves and does not climb. The eastern species rarely grows west of mid-Kansas, while the western variety populates most states, except the southeastern U.S;9 either species of poison ivy may have white or yellow flowers and produce green-yellow or amber colored berries. How the Rash Starts The contact dermatitis you get from poison ivy is the result of a reaction to the oil in the plant, urushiol (pronounced you-roo-she-all). This oil is in the flowers, stem, leaves and roots. It takes very little of the oil to cause the reaction and the oil remains active in the plant long after the plant has died.10 Exposure to an amount less than a grain of salt may cause a significant reaction if you are highly allergic. The rash typically begins in the first 12 to 72 hours after exposure to the plant, or any piece of clothing, lawn equipment or pet on which the oil has been deposited. While poison ivy is not truly contagious, if you touch someone who has the oil on their skin and it transfers to your skin, you may share the experience. Within a couple of hours of contact with the urushiol, it is absorbed and metabolized.11 Your immune cells recognize it as a foreign substance, sending out cytokines and white blood cells to take care of the invader. In this process, some of your normal tissue is damaged, which results in the symptoms you experience. In some cases, you may not react with your first or second exposure, leading you to believe you won’t get the rash. However, increasing numbers of people have the allergic reaction to urushiol with repeated exposure. So, if you didn’t develop the classic poison ivy rash the first time you were exposed, you may the second or third time. Symptoms of the poison ivy rash appear on the area of skin exposed to the oil, and any other areas to which the oil transferred. In other words, if you touched the plant then scratched your nose and swatted a fly on your arm, you’ll likely develop symptoms on your hand, nose and arm. The symptoms of poison ivy, oak and sumac include:12 ✓ Redness ✓ Itching ✓ Swelling ✓ Blisters ✓ Weeping at the blisters ✓ Pain or burning at the site ✓ Lesions can continue to appear for up to two weeks ✓ Difficulty breathing if the plant was burned and you inhaled the fumes ✓ Blisters may be in streaks depending upon how the oil was deposited on your skin As much as possible, refrain from scratching the rash as bacteria under your nails can infect the broken skin caused by the blisters. Keep the area clean with soap and water to reduce the potential for infection. In most cases you can treat your poison ivy at home, unless you know you have breathed in plants that had been burned or you begin to have trouble breathing. It may also be necessary to see your doctor if:13 ✓ The reaction on your skin is severe or widespread ✓ Your skin continues to swell over several days ✓ The rash affects the area on or around your eyes, genitals or mouth ✓ Your blisters begin oozing pus ✓ You have a fever greater than 100 F (37.8 C) ✓ The rash doesn’t improve significantly, or get better, within a few weeks Prevention: Getting It and Spreading It If you find poison ivy in your yard there are several precautionary tactics you’ll want to use to prevent getting the rash. The first is to keep exposed skin away from the plants. If you have poison ivy in a wooded area and decide to leave it, ensure the rest of your family and neighbors who may use the area are aware of the situation. If you are clearing an area of garden that may have poison ivy, oak or sumac, or if you are spreading a new load of mulch, you’ll want to wear long sleeves, long pants and gloves. Depending upon your mulch supplier, poison ivy plants and the potent, active oil may have been mulched with the wood chips. Once out of the garden, remove your gloves and clothing as described below and wash your hands and any exposed skin. Hose off your garden equipment with mild soap and ensure your dog didn’t follow you into areas of the garden that may have poison ivy, oak or sumac. For the most part your furry friend won’t experience contact dermatitis from poison plants as often as you do, as their coat protects them from the oil reaching the skin.14 Still, if you suspect your dog or cat has been in or near poison ivy, it may be prudent to give them a bath to prevent the oil from soaking to their skin or from transferring the oil to you or one of your family members. Be aware the oil in the plant is hardy and remains potent long past the life of the plant. Most cases of poison ivy contact dermatitis occur in the summer months, but some cases may show up in the dead of winter. Dr. David Adams, dermatologist at Penn State University, has seen cases near Christmas when people buying live trees rip dead vines off the trees, not realizing they are poison ivy.15 Removing the Plant From Your Yard You’ll want to use a safe and effective method to kill the plants that are in your yard without resorting to chemicals that damage the environment and may poison you as well. No matter what method you use to remove the plants, it’s essential you take a few moments to cover your skin with long pants, long shirt and gloves.16 The extra minutes you spend preparing may save you days of itching and burning. Duct tape your pants around your socks and your shirt around your gloves, ensuring the gloves you’re using don’t have holes. Once you’re done treating or pulling the poison ivy, you will want to strip off the clothes you’re wearing, being careful that you don’t touch the outside of the clothes with your bare hands. You may want to have a friend remove your gloves while they are wearing disposable vinyl gloves. Then, donning a pair of vinyl gloves yourself, remove the remainder of your clothes and immediately wash them twice in hot water.17 This may seem extreme, but could save you days of discomfort and pain. Poison ivy is a perennial plant, which means it could take three or four tries to eradicate it.18 The fastest way to get rid of the plants is to dig them up, ensure you get at least 8 inches deep into the soil to remove as much of the root system as possible.19 Disposal of the plants you dig up is another important factor to reduce the spread of the oil. Do not compost, shred or burn the plants as this causes the oil to spread. During burning, the oil aerosolizes and may cause a contact dermatitis over your face, hands and any other exposed skin.20 Instead, bag the plants and roots in plastic and dispose of them in the garbage. Once the plants are removed, cover the area with cardboard or mulch to help prevent regrowth of the plants. Watch the area around the cardboard for tiny plants that may grow from roots you may have missed. If suiting up and digging up the plants isn’t your style consider a nontoxic solution of 1 cup of salt, 1 gallon of water and a tablespoon of dish soap.21 Mix this solution thoroughly and pour it into a sprayer. Use the stream setting on the sprayer if the plant is close to other plants you would like to save, as this formulation will kill all plant growth. How to Treat Poison Ivy at Home If you know you’ve been exposed to poison ivy, oak or sumac, take precautions to minimize any potential outbreak. James Brauker, Ph.D., spent 25 years as a biomedical scientist studying skin inflammation. In this video, he explains the method he has used to reduce or eliminate outbreaks of contact dermatitis from the urushiol oil. Once you have an outbreak, for the most part you may treat it at home, using natural products to help reduce the swelling, itching and pain without resorting to over-the-counter medications. Try a combination of the following products to address each of the different symptoms. Left untreated, your poison ivy will often resolve spontaneously within two to three weeks. These treatments may help your body heal faster and will often relieve the pain and itching from the contact dermatitis.22,23 ✓ Remove the oil Alcohol wipes may help to remove the oil from your skin if you don’t have immediate access to soap, water and a washcloth. Remove the oil as quickly as possible after exposure to reduce the severity of the rash and possibly eliminate the potential of getting it. Remember to wipe every area of skin that may have contacted the plant or equipment that had touched the plant. Get between your fingers and use a brush to clean under your nails. Oil that remains under your nails may be spread when you touch other parts of your body. Use cool water and not hot to avoid irritating your skin or opening your pores, as this will allow the urushiol to be absorbed more quickly. Another astringent you can use to remove the oil is the juice from a fresh lemon. Squeeze the juice onto a cotton pad and wipe the area. While this may remove much of the oil, it is important to also wash and use a washcloth to continue to remove the oil. Wash the washcloth in hot water through two cycles to ensure the oil has been removed. ✓ Itching and inflammation Cold compresses may help soothe the skin and reduce the discomfort. Soaking the area in a lukewarm oatmeal bath may help reduce the inflammation and soothe your skin. You may use oatmeal in a container that accommodates the entire area or take an oatmeal bath. Filter the water as it leaves the tub or pour the fluid down the garbage disposal from a small basin used to soak an area of your body, so it doesn’t clog your drain. Baking soda in a lukewarm bath is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology to soothe the skin and reduce the inflammation.24 The inside of a banana peel or watermelon rind may also help reduce the itch from the rash. ✓ Do NOT scratch The rash is very itchy, but you must refrain from scratching as much as possible. Bacteria under your nails may trigger a skin infection and scratching increases the damage to your skin and the potential for scarring. If the blisters from the rash do break open, leave them alone and cover them to prevent infection. ✓ Reduce the reaction A paste of bentonite clay and water covering the area where you first notice the contact dermatitis may reduce the reaction your skin experiences, and therefore your symptoms. Bentonite clay is a natural clay that may be purchased at your local health food store. ✓ Speed healing Soak a paper bag in apple cider vinegar and lay it across the rash. If you cool the apple cider vinegar first it will also help to reduce the itch as the vinegar helps to speed healing of the rash. ✓ Cool the burning One of the symptoms of contact dermatitis from poison ivy is a burning sensation over the rash area. The gel from an aloe vera plant may help to cool the burn from the rash in much the same way it helps soothe a sunburn.