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How to transform your backyard this summer to celebrate the mini-moments

2022-07-19T01:01:00

(BPT) – Recent changes in how people use and enjoy their homes have led to major shifts in home design — especially when it comes to outdoor living. Whether you want to bring more of the indoors out for entertaining, enjoying family time or working from home surrounded by nature, outdoor living design has the power to highlight mini-moments: those day-to-day memories that make up the true meaning of everyone’s lives. Celebrating those moments at home can start by reimagining your own backyard.

This summer, join the annual Belgard Summer Giveaway and Celebrate the Mini-Moments for a chance to win a Belgard Weston Stone Round Fire Pit plus the Elements Smoke-less Insert and a set of two POLYWOOD Modern Curveback Adirondack chairs to elevate your backyard experience. As the leader in outdoor living essentials for the patio and beyond, Belgard celebrates summer with POLYWOOD in its annual giveaway. To enter the contest, Belgard asks homeowners to share where they experience their favorite mini-moments, along with a photo of their family enjoying their backyard space. Entries can be submitted now through Aug. 12 at Belgard.com/Summer.

What improvements could enhance your mini-moments?

Think about how you use your yard, deck or patio — and how you could personalize your space to enhance the way you and your family spend time outside. Would you like to have an outdoor yoga area? An open air addition to your home office? More space to entertain family and friends? What could further inspire those special memories?

1. Use thoughtful hardscaping to create cozy seating areas

Encourage intimate gatherings and memorable mini-moments with your loved ones by installing hardscape pavers perfectly set up for cozy get-togethers. For example, sturdy benches made from Belgard pavers in your yard or garden will invite friends and family to sit, take a breath and enjoy the moment, smell the roses or watch the sunset together.

2. Light up the night with a fire pit as the focal point

One great spot for a permanent and durable seating solution is around a fire pit, where guests and family members of all ages can gather for a fireside chat, melt marshmallows for s’mores on a pleasant summer evening or enjoy watching the fire on a cool fall night. Consider buying a Belgard fire pit kit for an easy DIY weekend project.

3. Cook up a party al fresco

Whether your dream is to have a full outdoor kitchen setup or just a welcoming seating area near your outdoor grill, why not consider some permanent additions to make your space even more inviting? Popular trends include creating an entire cooking area, complete with options like bar seating, a wine cooler, a grill/smoker and pizza oven for just about any kind of get-together you could possibly want. Don’t forget to include features for added comfort, like shade structures and fans.

Need help imagining the possibilities? Check out Belgard.com/Rooms to help you visualize all the ways you can transform your outdoor space.

4. Inspire fun and games

For the young and the young-at-heart, nothing entices you outdoors like spaces dedicated to play. Set up areas for games like badminton, a putting green, life-size chess and more. The kids will spend more time outdoors off their devices with plenty of options available. You can even keep the fun going into the evening hours using elements like enhanced lighting and sound options.

5. Celebrate the nature all around you

The beauty of being outdoors is enjoying the peaceful backdrop of your natural surroundings. While you may want all the creature comforts in your outdoor furniture, don’t forget to incorporate elements of nature into your design. Creating a water feature like a bubbling fountain or water bowl can get you in touch with your inner Zen, and a vertical wall of plants will keep your hardscaping green. Even without a green thumb, you can enjoy plants and flowers around you with thoughtful hardscaping, including built-in planters to make your gardening efforts simple and successful.

Don’t let summer pass you by without making the most of your mini-moments. Get inspired at Belgard.com.

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Navigating life with interstitial lung disease: How to be your own advocate

2022-07-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – A diagnosis of interstitial lung disease can be devastating. This group of rare lung diseases is characterized by scarring and/or inflammation of the lungs causing lung damage that may worsen as the disease progresses.

Journey to Diagnosis

Patty was no stranger to interstitial lung disease when she was diagnosed with one of the most common forms of the disease—idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis—in 2017. Her father and one of her sisters passed away from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and after struggling with shortness of breath for several months, she knew she could no longer ignore her symptoms. “I remember turning to my sister and saying, ‘I think I have what Dad had,’” recounts Patty. She made an appointment with her primary care provider, who referred her to a pulmonologist for further care.

During the visit with a pulmonologist, Patty was quick to share her family history of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, but her pulmonologist expressed doubt that it was causing Patty’s symptoms. “He said it could be a possibility, but my CT scan wasn’t what you would typically see with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis,” she recalls. After she underwent a lung biopsy, with labs and pulmonary function tests confirming, Patty was officially diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Patty’s experience isn’t unique. Interstitial lung disease is often treated by pulmonologists, who specialize in the treatment and management of lung disease. Still, misdiagnosis is common. In fact, interstitial lung disease has a misdiagnosis rate as high as 50% because providers may confuse it with other conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and congestive heart failure. Fortunately, Patty’s time as an idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis caregiver and a former nurse had prepared her well to be her own advocate. “I was lucky that I knew the importance of advocacy and research, but I know that not everyone has that background,” she says.

When her pulmonologist suggested OFEV® (nintedanib) capsules, a twice-daily treatment approved to treat adults with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Patty immediately began her research. “I went online and learned about the different types of testing and treatments available, and I liked that it [OFEV] might help slow the progression of my idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis,” Patty says. She started treatment and began tracking her side effects.

OFEV’s most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, liver problems, decreased appetite, headache, weight loss, and high blood pressure. These are not all the possible side effects of OFEV.

Connecting With the Interstitial Lung Disease Community

An accurate diagnosis can be a relief for patients like Patty, but it also has the potential to leave them feeling overwhelmed or wondering what comes next. Although interstitial lung disease covers a broad range of diseases—including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease, and chronic fibrosing interstitial lung disease—there is limited information available following diagnosis. After her diagnosis, Patty recognized an opportunity to use her experiences to build a local support group for others navigating an interstitial lung disease diagnosis.

“I recognized how important it was to learn from the experiences of others with pulmonary fibrosis. People thanked me for putting it together, and it made me realize just how important something like a support group really is,” says Patty. While the support group was intended to offer support to others, Patty says it also helped her cope with her own diagnosis. “The support group really helped me with some of the difficult parts of daily life with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Starting a support group made me feel like I was still helping people, and it continues to inspire me every day,” she says.

To learn more about OFEV® as a treatment option and patient support services, visit www.OFEV.com.

What is OFEV?

  • OFEV is a prescription medicine used:
    • to treat adults with a lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
    • to treat adults with a long lasting (chronic) interstitial lung disease in which lung fibrosis continues to worsen (progress).
    • to slow the rate of decline in lung function in adults with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) (also known as scleroderma-associated ILD).
  • It is not known if OFEV is safe and effective in children.

Important Safety Information

What is the most important information I should know about OFEV?

OFEV can cause harm, birth defects, or death to an unborn baby. Women should not become pregnant while taking OFEV. Women who are able to become pregnant should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment and should use highly effective birth control at the start of treatment, during treatment, and for at least 3 months after your last dose. Talk with your doctor about what birth control method is right for you during this time. Birth control pills may not work as well in women having vomiting, diarrhea, or other problems reducing the drug absorption. If you have any of these problems, talk with your doctor about what highly effective birth control method is right for you. If you become pregnant or think you are pregnant while taking OFEV, tell your doctor right away.

What should I tell my doctor before using OFEV?

Before you take OFEV, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you have:

• liver problems.

• heart problems.

• a history of blood clots.

• a bleeding problem or a family history of a bleeding problem.

• had recent surgery in your stomach (abdominal) area.

Tell your doctor if you:

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if OFEV passes into your breast milk.

You should not breastfeed while taking OFEV.

• are a smoker. You should stop smoking prior to taking OFEV and avoid smoking during

treatment.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements such as St. John’s wort.

What are the possible side effects of OFEV?

OFEV may cause serious side effects.

TELL YOUR DOCTOR RIGHT AWAY if you are experiencing any side effects, including:

• Liver problems. Unexplained symptoms may include yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes (jaundice), dark or brown (tea-colored) urine, pain on the upper right side of your stomach area (abdomen), bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, feeling tired, or loss of appetite. Your doctor will do blood tests to check how well your liver is working before starting and during your treatment with OFEV.

• Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Your doctor may recommend that you drink fluids or take medicine to treat these side effects. Tell your doctor if you have these symptoms, if they do not go away, or get worse, and if you are taking over-the-counter laxatives, stool softeners, and other medicines or dietary supplements.

• Heart attack. Symptoms of a heart problem may include chest pain or pressure, pain in your arms, back, neck, or jaw, or shortness of breath.

• Stroke. Symptoms of a stroke may include numbness or weakness on one side of your body, trouble talking, headache, or dizziness.

• Bleeding problems. OFEV may increase your chances of having bleeding problems. Tell your doctor if you have unusual bleeding, bruising, wounds that do not heal, and/or if you are taking a blood thinner, including prescription blood thinners and over-the-counter aspirin.

• Tear in your stomach or intestinal wall (perforation). OFEV may increase your chances of having a tear in your stomach or intestinal wall. Tell your doctor if you have pain or swelling in your stomach area.

• Increased protein in your urine (proteinuria). OFEV may increase your chances of having protein in your urine. Tell your doctor if you have any signs and symptoms of protein in the urine such as foamy urine, swelling, including in your hands, arms, legs, or feet, or sudden weight gain.

The most common side effects of OFEV are diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, liver problems, decreased appetite, headache, weight loss, and high blood pressure.

These are not all the possible side effects of OFEV. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Click here for full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information or visit OFEV.com or contact Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals at 1-800-542-6257.

CL-OF-100056 01.18.2022

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Traveling with pets this summer? [Infographic]

2022-07-18T13:01:00

(BPT) – If your travel plans this summer include bringing along a pet, there can be a lot of logistics to think through. The expert team of veterinarians and pet behaviorists at Purina want to make your summer travel plans a success, so we’ve gathered tips from the best in the business on ways to prep your pet for camping, hitting the road, hiking the trails, and fun in the sand.

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Simple pest control steps to take at home before calling an exterminator

2022-07-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Home is where the heart is, and you strive to make it a welcoming place. Whether you’re just moving in or you’ve been living in your house for decades, bugs can become a concern at any time — even in brand-new builds. The moment you notice ants, roaches and other pests, it’s time to act and take cues from those with experience, before you have to hire an expensive exterminator.

There are many pests that can damage property with one of the most common across the United States being roaches. In fact, 14 million of the approximately 124 million occupied U.S. housing units reported seeing roaches in their homes during the last 12 months, according to the 2019 U.S. Census Bureau American Housing Survey.

Whether it’s roaches, spiders, wasps or other insect species, having to hire an exterminator to handle a pest problem can be costly. According to 2022 HomeAdvisor estimates, the cost for a one-time pest control visit averages between $300 and $550. Depending on your specific pest problem, that figure could rise into the thousands.

Taking a proactive approach to protecting your home and family by treating issues yourself can save you hundreds of dollars per year and is easy to do. Backed by 65 years of research and innovation from entomologists at the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health™, Raid professionals are sharing their library of knowledge with everyone to help solve bug problems this year. Below are some of the most effective steps homeowners can take:

Secure the perimeter: Inspect the perimeter of the home and cover up any cracks and openings to prevent bugs from entering your home. If you see any holes, caulk them or conduct repairs to cover them up.

Seal doors: Cover unsealed gaps in doors that go outside and install a door sweep for added protection. Add weather stripping or door-seal kits to the frame to keep insects from entering along the sides or top of the door.

Tidy the kitchen: The kitchen attracts a wide variety of insects. Open or improperly stored food can quickly turn the kitchen into a breeding ground for bugs. Make sure your food is stored in tightly sealed containers or bags. Make a habit of keeping your floors and counters clean and clear of food crumbs by sweeping, vacuuming and wiping down surfaces throughout the day.

Tackle your pest problem: If you notice pests, treat the problem right away. The Raid brand offers a variety of products designed to help you control infestations as soon as you spot them — so small bugs don’t become a big problem.

Use screens: If you want to naturally ventilate your home, install screen mesh windows. A 20 mesh or finer screen will keep out most household pests. If your home already has screens, repair any holes or tears that would allow insect entry.

Avoid standing water: Eliminate pooled water outside the home to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs, and ensure that channels such as drains and gutters flow smoothly and aren’t blocked by leaves and waste. Lastly, inspect the surroundings to ensure that rainwater doesn’t collect in idle pots, tanks and tires.

Clean surroundings: Insects are attracted to food sources including uncovered trash. Ensure that garbage, recycling bins and composting food matter are closed and tightly sealed. Also, clear up trash near and around the home as soon as possible.

For more tips on how to avoid an expensive visit from the exterminator and get bug advice on demand, visit Raid.com.

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Want a simplified morning routine that sets the stage for school success?

2022-07-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – No matter what grade your kids are in, a new school year comes with optimism and opportunity. Everyone is excited for what the year will bring, until the first early alarm goes off and it’s time to get ready for school. Suddenly that joy becomes complaints as they beg for just one more minute and then later scramble to find their backpack while nearly missing the bus.

Morning routines don’t have to be stressful for kids or adults, with a little proactive planning. Consider these six morning routine tips to transform your a.m. from awful to amazing, setting the stage for everyone’s success:

Reduce morning work

The first trick to a smooth morning is to start the evening prior. Whether you have a preschooler or teen, have them select and set out the outfit they are going to wear tomorrow. Additionally, packing backpacks, snacks and lunches the evening before streamlines the morning and sets everyone up for a drama-free morning. Set backpacks and all items that don’t need refrigeration by the door so the family is ready to head out early.

Use alarms strategically

Students of all ages need structure to succeed, and alarms can serve as useful reminders to stay on task and manage time appropriately, which is an important executive functioning skill. Therefore, don’t just use alarms to wake kids up; set them throughout the morning to help them focus. For example, set an alarm for 20 minutes to eat, 20 minutes for dressing and tidying rooms, and a five-minute warning before it’s time to go to the bus.

Simplify breakfast

Breakfast helps fuel growing minds, but unlike weekends, there’s not much time to make food on weekday mornings. Save time by planning out easy grab-and-go breakfast items. Things like pre-portioned yogurt, fruit, granola bars and trail mix are easy to eat at home or on the way to school. Since food calms hunger pangs so kids can focus and learn, underscore the importance of eating in the morning, especially for older kids who may be tempted to skip.

Add in vitamins

Getting the right nutrients is essential, so consider adding a vitamin to your morning routine. SmartyPants Vitamins, for instance, has delicious, comprehensive gummy multivitamins for everyone in the family — including kids, teens and adults.

“We know that the vitamin aisle can be overwhelming, so our goal is to give families the utmost confidence that they’re selecting an efficacious vitamin … that’s also easy to add to your routine. Our kids, women’s and prenatal formulas include more premium nutrients than the leading multi gummy brand for each respective formula*. This includes omega-3s and other important nutrients for child development and adult whole body health,” said Aletta Mayorga, Registered Dietician and Director of Nutrition Science at SmartyPants. “What’s more, we are committed to the highest standards of quality and safety. Each of our products is Clean Label Project® certified, which is a third-party verification given to products that exceed the strictest standards of purity and have tested free of contaminants and chemicals of concern.”

SmartyPants Vitamins are available nationwide at dozens of major retailers, in-store and online at SmartyPantsVitamins.com and Amazon.com, with 1% of profits supporting the health of women and children in need through a partnership with Vitamin Angels.

*based on IRI InfoScan, MULO, $ Sales, 03/2021-03/2022

Make checklists

Even though you do your best to plan ahead, mornings can be hectic for everyone. Making checklists is a way to help kids be empowered and stay organized. Plus, they’ll accomplish more independently so you can focus on what you need to do. Every child will have different to-do’s based on their age, abilities and needs. Small children may benefit from simple visuals to remind them to brush their teeth and make their bed. Older kids can have checklists that go into detail about what they need to do and pack based on the day’s activities, such as extracurriculars.

Stay positive

The best way to start the day in a positive way is to model a positive attitude. Compliment your kids, smile and wish them a wonderful day. Model staying calm and organized yourself so they can reflect that energy. If you feel like mornings are becoming stressed, caregivers can try getting up 15-30 minutes earlier. Not only does this give you a little cushion of time, it also is time before kids wake up where you can enjoy a quiet house and prepare yourself for the day ahead.

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Homeownership 101: The ultimate guide to lawn care

2022-07-15T13:13:00

(BPT) – Amid a pandemic and a potential recession, Americans went on a near-record homebuying spree over the last couple of years. Many were first-time homebuyers and, according to Realtor.com, more buyers searched for homes out of state in 2021 than the previous year.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer or buying a home in a new city, you know what an exciting and overwhelming experience it can be. Knowing which home maintenance projects are the most important can make things a lot easier.

“When making a house a home, many homeowners often focus on the interior. However, the exterior of the home is equally important,” says Brian Feldman, senior director of technical operations at TruGreen. “A green lawn is often the first place you will see as you make your way to the front door, and to keep your outdoor living space looking its best, you’ll need to know key seasonal maintenance practices to achieve a lush, healthy lawn.”

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner who may not have had a yard before or are moving to a new home in a different climate, it can be tough to know how to care for your lawn. TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care provider, highlights six maintenance tasks homeowners can follow to help learn the basics of lawn care and start creating a healthy outdoor living space.

1. Aeration and overseeding

To ensure a healthy, thicker lawn, you’ll need to aerate your lawn. And if you have a cool season grass, we recommend you overseed at the same time. While this is an often-overlooked step in lawn care, it can help prevent weeds during the warmer months. In many areas of the country, homeowners should aerate and overseed in late summer heading into the fall (August through October) to reap the rewards the following spring.

2. Controlling weeds

Weeds can be a huge nuisance for homeowners, and fighting them off early is critical. Before you begin your war on weeds, find out what type of weeds are on your lawn and learn the best ways to control them. If removing weeds leads to more complicated projects, consider hiring a professional to help.

3. Fertilization

Many homeowners dream of a green lawn, but your lawn needs nutrients to look its best. The best way to give your lawn the nutrients it needs for healthy growth is through fertilization. But with several complicated names and a range of fertilizing options, it can feel like a lot to take on. To ensure your outdoor living space gets the proper care, consult an expert to determine what best suits your lawn and soil conditions.

4. Mowing

While it’s nice to have a routine of mowing your lawn once a week, you need to watch how your lawn grows to determine how often it needs a trim. During hot, dry periods, your lawn may only need mowing once every two or three weeks. During cool, damp periods, your grass may grow quicker and need mowing twice a week. Remember, lawns grow at different rates depending on the season, weather, region and species. No two lawns are the same. Learn how yours grows so you don’t under- or over-mow it.

5. Insect control

Many common lawn-damaging insects can rapidly overtake your grass and other plants, so it’s best to be vigilant when examining your outdoor living space. They can cause significant damage, making your outdoor living space much harder to manage. New homeowners should educate themselves about their area’s various insects so they can better care for and invest in their lawns. This knowledge can save you significant time and money in the long run.

6. Watering

As a rule of thumb, it’s time to give your lawn a drink when it starts to take on a dull hue. Most lawns need an inch of water per week. To achieve optimal results, you’ll want to perform long, infrequent watering one or two times per week. Remember to always be respectful of water restrictions if they are present in your community.

Whether your new house will be your home for the next few years or your forever home, living happily ever after is far more possible when you consider hiring a professional to help. If you have questions about lawn care or could use an extra set of hands to achieve the results you’re looking for, consult a lawn care professional. To learn more about lawn care maintenance and speak with an expert, visit TruGreen.com.

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Kitchen backsplash 101: How to master a simple DIY project

2022-07-15T05:01:00

(BPT) – Looking for an easy weekend project to help transform the look of your kitchen, bathroom or bar? Swap out your old, tired backsplash for new tiles or a stylish mosaic pattern. The first step is to find tiles you like, as your choice will determine the products required to help set your tiles like a pro — even if it’s your first time.

Here are the basics to get you started.

Using mosaic sheet tiles

If you prefer smaller tiles, you can choose a mosaic sheet for quick and easy installation of your new backsplash

To apply mosaic sheet tiles without messy mortar or mixing, SimpleMat® Tile Setting Mat lets you complete your project in a day because there’s no waiting between setting and grouting. If you prefer, you can install for an hour at a time, or over several days. Regardless of your pace, you must grout within 24 hours of setting your tile. SimpleMat is suitable for walls or countertops, and can be used with ceramic, porcelain, stone or glass tile measuring 1×1 inches or larger. SimpleMat can also be used with mosaic tile with open mesh backing, as long as the skinny side of the tile is at least 5/8 of an inch. Tiles should not be heavier than 7 pounds or larger than 8×8 inches.

Beyond backsplashes, SimpleMat is also suitable for kitchen or bath counters, shower walls and tub surrounds. SimpleMat grips tightly from the start, so it’s great for mosaic sheets and perfect for first-time DIYers. Just ensure your surface is sound, clean and dry before starting, then follow the easy step-by step instructions at TheSimpleMat.com/StepsToSuccess.html.

SimpleMat is available exclusively at The Home Depot.

Installing individual tiles

If your plan is for larger, single tiles, like subway tiles for your backsplash, it’s still an easy project with the right products. For example, SimpleSet® Pre-Mixed Thin-Set Mortar provides a ready-to-use, no-mix, no-mess alternative to traditional thin-set mortar that’s recommended for ceramic, porcelain and stone tile up to 8×8 inches. Additionally, it’s ideal for smaller tiles if you wish to create your own pattern instead of using mosaic sheets designed by others. It’s easy to use — just spread the mortar and set your tiles. Importantly, SimpleSet allows you to move and adjust tiles after placement in case a bit of adjustment is needed to get them right.

Instructions for SimpleSet application:

1. Make sure your tiling surface is sound, clean and dry.

2. Use a properly-sized notch trowel to ensure proper coverage. Using the flat side of trowel, apply a skim coat of SimpleSet to the surface where you are applying the tile.

3. Apply additional SimpleSet with the notch side of the trowel held at a 45-degree angle to the surface, combing in one direction.

4. Press tile firmly into place in a perpendicular motion across the ridges, moving back and forth. With larger tiles, back-buttering (spreading a thin layer to the tile itself just before placing) is advised.

5. Adjust tile promptly and beat in with a beating block and rubber mallet. Periodically pull up a tile and check the back to ensure complete coverage with SimpleSet.

6. Do not apply more SimpleSet than can be covered by tile in 30 minutes. If SimpleSet starts to skin over (is not sticky), re-trowel before setting tile.

7. Do not apply more SimpleSet than necessary to achieve a sufficient bond — the thickness should not exceed 3/16 inches.

8. Unlike SimpleMat, SimpleSet needs to cure at least 24-72 hours before grouting. Dry time will vary depending on tile size, porosity of the surface you are tiling and ambient conditions.

SimpleSet is available at The Home Depot and other home improvement retailers.

Applying grout

After setting your tiles or mosaic tile sheet, you’ll need to grout. Fortunately, SimpleGrout® Pre-Mixed Grout is an easy-to-use, no-mix, no-mess alternative to traditional grout. It uses a sanded, shrink- and crack-resistant formula that resists common household stains.

With these ready-to-use products, you can tackle a variety of projects to enhance your home environment, even if you’re a DIY novice.

Learn more about easy DIY home projects at CustomBuildingProducts.com.

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6 Tips from a Caregiver of a Child with Peanut Allergy: How to Handle Travel, Camp, Sports, Birthdays and Other Moments That Matter

2022-07-14T11:01:00

(BPT) – While many of us may know someone living with peanut allergy, what most of us may not know is how much it can impact daily life and key moments that we often take for granted. Peanut allergy can be a lifelong condition, and reactions to peanut can range from mild to potentially life-threatening. Some children with peanut allergy may not want to participate in certain activities due to the potential of accidental exposure.

Kirsten and her family have lived with peanut allergy for 13 years since her son Maddox was first diagnosed and have had to learn to navigate events such as birthdays, traveling and even family holidays to avoid accidental exposure to peanut. This has required constant vigilance daily as practicing a strict peanut-free diet alone might not be enough, since even a small amount of the allergen can prompt an allergic reaction. Maddox is currently taking PALFORZIA® [Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) Allergen Powder-dnfp]. PALFORZIA is a treatment for people who are allergic to peanuts that can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur with accidental exposure to peanut. PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis, please see below for important safety information.

However, despite his peanut allergy, Kirsten has been committed to making sure that Maddox and their family can still enjoy doing the things they love. Below, she shares six proactive tips for caregivers of children with a peanut allergy to consider.

1. Vacations/travel

Kirsten and her family have visited many places — they make sure to carry injectable epinephrine and ask everyone they are traveling with not to bring any food containing peanut. If traveling by plane, train or bus, contact the company to find out their peanut allergy protocol and board early to wipe down your child’s seat, seatbelt, tray table, and controls. If traveling to a foreign country, Kirsten has found it helpful to learn how to say “peanut allergy” in the country’s language or to bring laminated cards to hand to waiters with peanut warnings in the country’s language.

2. Summer camp

It is important to inform the camp staff before camp begins about your child’s allergy and the potential for allergic reactions. If it feels necessary, you can hold a call with the camp personnel to discuss your concerns and share an emergency action plan that includes your allergist’s contact details, epinephrine, and a recent picture of your child so people who are unfamiliar with your child know what they look like. Kirsten expressed how important it is for children to be able to recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction and understand how to advocate for themselves. You should discourage your child from sharing foods, encourage them to read every label and be sure they know which snacks they can’t have. If the camp does not give out name tags where you could include a warning about your child’s peanut allergy, make sure they are wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace. Lastly, make sure your child or your child’s counselor carries injectable epinephrine in case of an emergency.

3. Sports

At Maddox’s sporting events, Kirsten always comes prepared with plenty of snacks for during and after the game. Kirsten has found it helpful to have their coaches send an email home to all parents before practice starts asking them to please not share any food with the team that she has not approved of first. Since Maddox plays baseball, peanuts, a staple at ballparks, can be a big issue. Because of this, Kirsten is constantly reminding the coaches and other parents throughout the season of Maddox’s peanut allergy and stays close during halftime and post-game activities to monitor any snacks being passed around. She shares that sunflower seeds have served as a great alternative to peanuts, and they are always sure to bring extra in case anyone forgets and brings peanuts.

4. Birthday parties

Since birthday parties are common events in children’s lives, the risk of accidental exposure for children with peanut allergy at these events is clearly present. As a little boy, Maddox would go to birthday parties but wasn’t allowed to eat the cake — or anything for that matter. Kirsten would go with him to the parties and bring foods he could eat — typically cake or something fun so he did not feel left out. Kirsten typically calls the host beforehand to find out what they are serving. She also notes that you must always carry injectable epinephrine with you just in case.

5. Holidays

Holiday gatherings are an important time for many families to be with loved ones. Prior to parties, Kirsten calls the host to find out what kind of food they are serving. If you are able, ask the host to take pictures of/keep the food labels so you can read the ingredients. If the holiday dinner is buffet style, Kirsten makes sure Maddox can be served first to limit cross contact. Kirsten usually gives Maddox a snack or meal before the event so that he is not tempted to grab appetizers that may contain peanut. As she does with birthday parties, Kirsten will also bring a peanut-free dish or dessert so Maddox has something to look forward to that he knows he can eat. These proactive tips for holiday dinners also hold true for any large gathering such as summer barbecues and picnics.

6. Peanut Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)

No matter how hard families try to remain vigilant, accidental exposure to peanut can still occur. Kirsten wanted to do something proactive to help manage Maddox’s peanut allergy in addition to avoidance alone. When she heard about an FDA-approved treatment that could potentially be an option for her son, she was eager to learn more and find out if it could be a fit. PALFORZIA is the first and only FDA-approved OIT that is intended to gradually decrease sensitivity to small amounts of peanuts that may be hidden in foods. PALFORZIA does NOT treat allergic reactions and should not be given during an allergic reaction. You must maintain a strict peanut-free diet while taking PALFORZIA. Peanut OIT is an approach that can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions by introducing small daily doses of an allergen into an individual’s diet to gradually build up to larger amounts over time. While Maddox must continue to avoid peanut and carry injectable epinephrine, Kirsten is grateful for PALFORZIA because it can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur if Maddox was accidentally exposed to peanut.

WHAT IS PALFORZIA?

PALFORZIA is a treatment for people who are allergic to peanuts. PALFORZIA can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur with accidental exposure to peanut. PALFORZIA may be started in patients aged 4 through 17 years old. If you turn 18 years of age while on PALFORZIA treatment you should continue taking PALFORZIA unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

PALFORZIA does NOT treat allergic reactions and should not be given during an allergic reaction.

You must maintain a strict peanut-free diet while taking PALFORZIA.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis that may be life-threatening.

  • You will receive your first dose in a healthcare setting under the observation of trained healthcare staff.
  • You will receive the first dose of all dose increases in a healthcare setting.
  • In the healthcare setting, you will be observed for at least 1 hour for signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.
  • If you have a severe reaction during treatment, you will need to receive an injection of epinephrine immediately and get emergency medical help right away.
  • You will return to the healthcare setting for any trouble tolerating your home doses.

Stop taking PALFORZIA and get emergency medical treatment right away if you have any of the following symptoms after taking PALFORZIA:

  • Trouble breathing or wheezing
  • Chest discomfort or tightness
  • Throat tightness
  • Trouble swallowing or speaking
  • Swelling of your face, lips, eyes, or tongue
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Hives (itchy, raised bumps on skin)
  • Severe flushing of the skin

Because of the risk of severe allergic reactions, PALFORZIA is only available through a restricted program called the PALFORZIA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about the PALFORZIA REMS program and how to enroll.

You should NOT take PALFORZIA if you have uncontrolled asthma, or if you ever had eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) or other eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease.

Tell your doctor if you are not feeling well prior to starting treatment with PALFORZIA. Your doctor may decide to delay treatment until you are feeling better. Also tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have and if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription and herbal supplements.

Your doctor may decide that PALFORZIA is not the best treatment if:

You are unwilling or unable to receive (or self-administer) injectable epinephrine.

You have a condition or are taking a medication that reduces the ability to survive a severe allergic reaction.

What are the possible side effects of PALFORZIA?

The most commonly reported side effects of PALFORZIA were: stomach pain, vomiting, feeling sick, itching or burning in the mouth, throat irritation, cough, runny nose, sneezing, throat tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, hives, and/or itchy ears.

PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis that may be life-threatening.

PALFORZIA can cause stomach or gut symptoms including inflammation of the esophagus (called eosinophilic esophagitis). Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis can include:

  • Trouble swallowing
  • Food stuck in throat
  • Burning in chest, mouth, or throat
  • Vomiting
  • Regurgitation of undigested food
  • Feeling sick

For additional information on the possible side effects of PALFORZIA, talk with your doctor or pharmacist or visit https://www.palforzia.com/.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including an Important WARNING about anaphylaxis.

2022 Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. PALFORZIA is a registered trademark of Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc.

PALF-PM-USA-0170 06/22

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Travelers dread Florida airspace issues

2022-07-13T11:01:00

(BPT) – Many fliers are seeing firsthand a worrisome trend in the air – travel delays and cancellations to numerous cities across south Florida, fueled by growing competition for limited space where airlines are forced to contend with general aviation (i.e. private aircraft) and frequent space launch activities over the Atlantic Ocean.

The problem itself is primarily rooted in how air traffic is regulated, as aircraft no matter the size or number of passengers are weighed on a first-come, first-served basis. This leaves commercial airlines increasingly drawing the short straw in the resulting struggle.

“With consumers buffeted by countless forces over the past several years, the last thing they need is to wonder if they can arrive at their intended travel destination,” said Dee Stewart, president of the Center for Innovation and Free Enterprise. “The federal government needs to keep all options on the table to help alleviate the situation.”

Over the past several years, with the effects of COVID-19 notwithstanding, Florida has remained one of the most popular spots for leisure and business travelers. Emblematic of this trend, in the first quarter of 2022 alone the state welcomed approximately 36 million visitors. While many of these arrive on commercial flights, private aviation has seen incredible growth with Florida now becoming the busiest state for private jet travel in the U.S.

While general aviation has steadily expanded, space businesses have not rested on their laurels. The Space Coast has seen more activity in the last months than it has in decades. And with each launch, the federal government closes not only the area surrounding the path of the rocket, but for hundreds of miles to ensure any possible debris will be far from the routes aircraft are flying.

Between the two competing entities and their outsized impact on commercial flights, the extra traffic has brought with it additional headaches for consumers and business owners who rely on a constant flow of tourists, particularly during the spring and summer months when Florida’s beaches beckon potential visitors.

Along with the infamously fickle Florida weather, what has this meant for the average flier? Simply put, more time waiting in airports or rescheduling plans. Consumers have been forced to prepare to run what has steadily become an insurmountable aerial blockade each time they book a flight to the region.

The government – including the Federal Aviation Administration and National Aeronautics and Space Administration – have also seen a deluge of headlines, especially locally, on the growing difficulties experienced by travelers, and could be examining potential measures to relieve some of the acute pain they are now feeling. With no end currently in sight, it could be possible that, for the foreseeable future if recent trends hold, fliers should continue to expect the unexpected and build in contingencies to their travel itineraries.

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Heading outdoors with your family? These expert tips help you get more out of your outdoor moments

2022-07-13T10:01:00

(BPT) – People are enjoying the outdoors in record numbers — whether they’re adventure-seeking outdoor enthusiasts, casual hikers, or families looking for more time to discover the outside world. Enjoying Mother Nature has countless benefits for people of all ages, like encouraging healthy habits while having fun, but it’s important you’re prepared for your adventure.

This summer, Duracell has teamed up with outdoor adventurer Bear Grylls to share some tips on how to make the most of your time outdoors with your family and friends. From dedicated planning to establishing necessities for your trip, like sunscreen and powerful batteries, you will be ready to explore the great outdoors.

Be Your Own Expert

Have a plan for your time outdoors, and don’t be afraid to be your own expert. You don’t always need a survival guide or wilderness warrior to get the most out of your adventure, but remember the importance of being flexible, especially if adventuring with small children. Summer is the perfect time to plan a trip with your friends and family and have fun the way you want to. As long as your trek is planned out and you have the appropriate gear, devices, and power sources packed, then you will be set up for the adventure of a lifetime! And remember, gear like headlamps, radios, walkie talkies and flashlights are just as important as your sleeping bag and water. Without a power source these won’t work, so make sure you pack reliable and powerful batteries which will help you find your way or communicate when out on your adventure!

Pack Smart

Packing can be a challenge for outdoor family activities. You want to have everything necessary to be comfortable, but you don’t want to lug around any more than you need. To direct your packing, focus on the activities you’re doing and the predicted weather. Some necessities include sunscreen, bug spray, water bottles, batteries and food. Having a small kit with bandages, wipes and ointment is good for any bumps or scrapes. If rain is in the forecast or conditions are damp, pack a disposable poncho for each person. Always wear proper shoes for whatever activity you’re doing and add an extra pair of socks to ensure dry feet.

Stay Powered

From helping flashlights and headlamps stay bright to powering your instant camera, batteries are an outdoor essential that helps you have fun and stay safe. When packing, make sure to include the new Duracell batteries with Power Boost Ingredients, which are Engineered for More and can deliver more life in some devices or more power in others*, making them THE battery to power all of your outdoor adventures this summer.

Spending time outdoors is a fantastic way to bond with your family and friends. These simple planning tips can help ensure people of all ages and outdoor abilities enjoy their time in Mother Nature and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit Duracell.com/PowerBoost to learn more about how to get the most out of your outdoor adventures, and for information on, and how to get involved with, the brand’s mission with Make-A-Wish this summer to help power outdoor wishes for children with critical illnesses.

*vs previous coppertop batteries, new Duracell with Power Boost ingredients can deliver more life in some devices or more power in others in a wide range of devices