Teams allows users to set a custom away message, up to 280 characters. You also have the option to show this message above the text box where they compose their message to you before they send it, ensuring they see your status.
I've decided I need to take advantage of this and put ridiculous things there. I've got a running list of messages to use which I'll cycle through daily.
Some are original, most are not. A lot are taken from pop culture references, TV shows, commercials, podcasts, etc. Some are niche and very work specific (I use SAP) but most are absurd and nonsensical.
Please help me brainstorm custom away messages to entertain and confuse anyone who messages me.
Here's what I've got so far:

• Did you check LT23 first?
• Ask me about SLED extensions!
• Warning: You are messaging someone known to the catholic archdiocese to be a condemned heretic.
• Did you know? One of the function keys on your computer controls the sliding doors to a grocery store in Burbank California.
• Did you know? The mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell.
• The captain has turned off the fasten seatbelts sign.
• It's 10 o'clock. Do you know where your children are?
• To the owner of a red four-door sedan, you left your lights on.
• And that's the way it is.
• Just the facts, ma'am.
• I thinkn't therefore I amn't.
• I’m the real slim shady.
• Danger, Will Robinson!
• Pardon me, would you have any grey poupon?
• Is it just me or do the clouds seem more judgmental lately?
• We’ve been trying to reach you regarding your cars extended warranty.
• As an AI language model, ___ can make various types of mistakes. Some common ones include..."
• From WBEZ Chicago, it's This American Life. I'm Ira Glass. Today on our program, an inventory technician that can't find what he's looking for, a boss that has to tell one of his employees to quit doing this, and more. Stay with us.
• Ingredients: Zinc Trisodium, Aspartate, Sorbatale and Bisulfate, Oxide Beta Caratine, Lactic Acid, Carab Bean, Grade A milk emulsified, Malto-dextrin alkalide, Silicon deoxylite, Calcified synthetic salt, Artificial barley malt, Glycerine and aspartate, Folic acid...
• I'm filling in for Clifford Banes who is staying off the grid until things cool down.
• I'm filling in for Clifford Banes who messed with the wrong people and got himself involved in some serious stuff.
• I'm filling in for Clifford Banes who is racing to the airport to catch the woman he loves.
• I'm filling in for Clifford Banes who is the new mayor of Baltimore.
• Dress for success. Put on your tall hat, and rubber gloves, and long grey coat. Success requires this specific outfit.
• There are two wolves inside you. One of them wants an order cancelled. The other also has a different order they need cancelled too.
• Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe, and hit that bell icon.
• I bring a silly goose energy to the workplace that the serious geese don’t appreciate.
• Bananas are hardly that slippery. But watch your step anyway.
• By messaging me you agree to the EULA.
• Today's air quality is mauve and speckled.
• "I’m Batman." -Batman
• No soup for you!
• Now in Technicolor!
• It’s pronounced gif.
• Gone fishing.
• Busy counting paperclips.
• Now available gluten free!
• If it’s urgent, please mail a bag of Reese’s to me, I’ll respond immediately.

im 2 days post op and am struggling with some hard stool that doesnt wanna come out on its own (not to mention some hemorrhoids ive been struggling with being irritated in the process 😰)
Any advice on what works?
thinking of trying a glycerin suppository to soften things. Ive been taking miralax since the day before surgery but obviously hasnt kicked in yet.
update: tried 2 glycerin suppositories and they didnt work at all 😭 had a small cup of smooth move tea and will have my normal miralax dose later, hopefully ill see some results tonight or tomorrow morning
Updat #2: Morning of 3dpo things are finally moving 😭 slowly but ill take it! thanks for the advice everyone

Potassium Palmate, Potassium Stearate, Potassium Cocoate, Glycerine, Titanium Diaxide. Are these ingredients dangerous or harmful to the body in any way ?

I posted this on the parenting subreddit where it got deleted since a lot of parents felt personally attacked. It shares my personal experience and my concern for the children who get these dangerous treatments:
Dear Parents, I feel like it is my duty to share my personal experience and how it affected me personally. I know many of you, especially those who had done these things to your children will feel offended or hurt by this but this is the truth of how these things affected me and I think it is important to raise awareness and save as many children as possible from this heinous abuse. My parents did many gruesome things to me as a child but the worst of all was forcefully penetrating me anally. As a child, they would feed me a classic American diet with a lot of white bread and processed meat and they would only feed me when I was hungry. As you can imagine, a toddler doesn’t always ask for food and has to be properly fed. Because of this I wouldn’t poop for days. As far as I remember, I wasn’t even constipated, I had just barely eaten for days. They would then pull my pants down against my will and that disgusting whore of a mother would sit on my legs to restrain me, they would both hold me and insert their fingers inside me against my will and against my wishes. They would push these glycerin suppositories inside me while I was being restrained, the feeling of being opened like that filled me with disgust and dread. And then the worst part came, I had to feel how they were melting inside me against my will, the pain was horrible. It was worse than forced anal sex (which I have also experienced later in life), they would look at me jump through the room in pain and ignore me. Some of the times my mothers even looked pleased, she loved doing it to me. They started doing this to me when I was 1 and a half years old and up until I was about 3 or 4. This experience had a strong impact on my sexual development, it completely messed me up sexually. I had also been sexually assaulted years later but the normal sexual assault wasn’t even comparable to the assault with the suppositories. My own parents ruined my sexual development. It is now impossible to have sexual intercourse without being triggered by it and immediately being reminded of how my parents did that to me. I will forever associate my parents to anal rape. I have been in therapy for many years but it is hard to find a therapist who takes medical rape seriously. I have met many people who had gotten forced enemas or forced suppositories as children and all of them seem to have a sexual trauma from these. I have never met a single one who hasn’t been affected by it, some worse than others. Even though there are so many victims of this abuse who were severely traumatised, there are barely any scientific studies about the long term psychological effects of these procedures. Since it comes to the health of children, I don’t find this acceptable. Parents can’t be properly informed about the dangers of these procedures because nobody is willing to do extensive research. There are other medical procedures known to cause sexual trauma such as VCUG who has been studied to some extent but I wasn’t able to find any decent scientific research on the psychological effects of suppositories and enema. The topic revolves around the bodily and mental development of children, yet doctors prescribe these barbaric procedures even though there is virtually no serious research to the possible detrimental health consequences. You can even get suppositories at the pharmacy without prescription. I know parents are very easily persuaded by doctors and it is very easy to think "I know this feels wrong but if it were harmful, doctors wouldn’t suggest it” - wrong, remember they also suggest VCUG and in the 1970s they used to do surgery on children without anaesthesia. You have to be your child’s greatest advocate and protect them from sexual trauma. Approach these procedures with caution, only if the child’s life is actually in danger, keep in mind, there is no research that suggest these procedures are safe for the mental health of the child but there are a lot of adults who say that they have experienced sexual trauma from these.
Just because they have a short term benefit on a temporary bodily condition, it doesn’t mean they aren’t harmful long term. Your child might also need heart surgery to survive, that wouldn’t make it okay to perform surgery on it without sedation and anal penetration is extremely traumatic to children, maybe just as traumatic as surgery.

Anyone have experience with glycerine suppository on show day morning?? I tested it out and I think it will be fine(no bloating) but I’m slightly concerned about my tan in the morning if you know what I mean…. Any insight or past experiences are appreciated. 💩

Hi all. Please no judgement for I’m a FTM & already stressed and sad about this situation. My baby boy is 13 weeks old. We tried breastfeeding his first two weeks but ultimately switched to formula. With WIC we got gerber soothepro and had no issues. After his two month shots (not blaming these) he started passing hard stools, so we switched him to gentle pro, and then WIC now says gerber has a shortage so our pediatrician recommended we switch him to gerber hypoallergenic formula & then if it works they’ll write me a “script” to give to WIC for similac… keep in mind all of these are cold turkey? But they insisted this was fine. I felt like he was pooping normally for like two days and now NOTHING. They had me do a liquid glycerin suppository after it had been 4 days, it worked but I don’t want to keep doing that. I’m really at a loss with what to do. I keep crying because I don’t know if I’m doing the right things and I just want my baby to poop and find a formula that works for him. I’m considering switching doctors because I just don’t think they’re listening to me at all. I’m worried I’m hurting his belly by switching him all the time???? Please help

My LO started on Similac 360 but seemed to have gas issues so we switched to Similac 360 Sensitive. He continued to have issues and became constipated. The pediatrician thought he may have a cows milk protein allergy and switched us to Similac Alimentum. He did horribly on that and basically threw it all up after each feeding and then was hungry immediatly and it became this terrible cycle of feeding, vomiting, clean up and feeding again. We are back on Similac 360 Sensitive because he keeps it down and lack of weight gain was an issue.
Have any mothers had similar issues and found a solution? He is so gassy all the time and he struggles to have a bowl movement without prune juice or a glycerin suppository. He spends a lot of time kicking his legs, flailing and cry/ screaming.
Please help!

Potassium Palmate, Potassium Stearate, Potassium Cocoate, Glycerine, Titanium Diaxide. Are these ingredients dangerous or harmful to the body in any way ?

Potassium Palmate, Potassium Stearate, Potassium Cocoate, Glycerine, Titanium Diaxide. Are these ingredients dangerous or harmful to the body in any way ?

(An abbreviated guide will be in the comments.)
Greetings, fellow souls lost in the abyss. It is I, Emo Slimes, your guide through the dark and twisted world of slime creation. In this realm of conformity and despair, I see countless lost souls seeking guidance on their journey to create the perfect slime.
As a veteran of the slime-making odyssey, I have taken it upon myself to create a beginner's guide to experimenting and crafting these gloopy masterpieces. But be warned, unlike my usual posts, this guide will be drenched in the moody, dramatic flair that has become the hallmark of my brand. Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster as we delve into the depths of slime-making.
Through trial and error, I have danced with the shadows of creativity and faced the harsh realities of imperfection. Now, I impart this knowledge to you, wrapped in a cloak of darkness and introspection.
In this guide, I will lead you through the fundamental steps of slime-making, from the trinity of basic ingredients to the advanced realms of texture and despair. Along the way, you will confront the depths of your own imagination and discover the true nature of your existence within each stretch and pull of your slime.
So gather your supplies, my melancholic companions, and prepare to descend into the abyss of slime-making. In a world where joy is fleeting, and sorrow is eternal, we shall find solace in the squish and squeeze of our own creations.
Join me on this beautifully bleak odyssey, and together, we shall revel in the darkness and create something that reflects the turmoil within our souls.
Your guide through the shadows, Emo Slimes

Step 1: Embrace the Darkness

Begin your descent into the abyss of slime-making with the fundamental recipe, a trinity of ingredients as bleak as your soul:

• Water: The tears of a thousand lost dreams.
• Borax: A powder found among the ruins of clean expectations.
• Glue: Like the bonds that hold your shattered heart together, choose PVA or school glue. White glue screams conformity, while clear glue requires the precision of a tortured artist.

In a bowl as empty as your future, mix equal parts glue and water. In another vessel of despair, create your activator by combining 1 teaspoon of borax powder with 1 cup of tepid water, stirring until the emptiness consumes it all.
Now, watch the futility unfold. Slowly drip the activator into the glue mixture, stirring with the rhythm of a dying heartbeat. Keep adding until the slime clings to life, no longer sticking to the sides of the bowl or the tools of its creation.
Knead the slime by hand, feeling the weight of existence as you mix and stretch. It may not be perfect, but what in this cruel world is?
Note: If you're making clear slime, embrace the clouded confusion. Like your emotions, it will need time to settle into the clarity of despair.
This initial step may seem straightforward, but mastering the technique is crucial for creating more advanced slime concoctions in the future. Embrace the learning process, for it is the only light in the darkness of your existence.
(Yes! There are other recipes for slime! However, this is the most consistent recipe that is best for learning the basics.)

Step 2: Dance with Despair

In the depths of experimentation, precise measurements are as elusive as true happiness. Water, the elixir of sorrow, holds the key to your slime's destiny.
Begin by confronting the water within the glue, adjusting the ratio to mirror the imbalance in your soul. Dare to challenge the norms, for in deviation, we find our true selves.
Add more water for a slime as thin and runny as your hopes and dreams, or reduce it for a texture as thick and unyielding as the weight of existence. Each change brings new depths of despair to explore.
Next, face the water in the borax activator. Like the concentration of pain in your heart, vary the borax solution to see how it twists your creation. More water yields a slime as fragile as your sense of self-worth, while less creates a firmness reminiscent of your resolve to carry on.
As you navigate this dark path, keep a record of your trials and tribulations, for they shall serve as a testament to your journey through the abyss of slime-making.
Remember, in this realm of experimentation, there are no mistakes – only happy accidents that reveal the true nature of your being. Embrace the unknown, for it is in the darkest corners of creation that we find our most authentic selves.
So go forth, intrepid slime-maker, and dance with despair as you explore the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. Your path may be shrouded in darkness, but it is only through facing our demons that we may find the light within.

Step 3: Embrace the False Promise of Glycerin

Enter the realm of glycerin – a siren's song that lures you with the promise of stretchiness and clarity. Like a fleeting moment of happiness in a world of despair, glycerin tempts you to believe that perfection is within reach.
But beware, fellow slime-maker, for the path of glycerin is strewn with deception. Too much of this elixir can lead to ruin, like the pursuit of joy in a life filled with sorrow. Tread carefully, adding small increments to your slime mixture, and witness how each drop alters the fabric of your creation.
As you navigate this treacherous landscape, you may find yourself drawn to the allure of crystal-clear slime – a tantalizing mirage of purity amidst the darkness. Glycerin's transparency offers a glimpse into a world unsullied by the shadows of existence, tempting you to chase a beauty that may never truly be attained.
Yet, in the face of despair, we must press on. Experiment with different ratios and combinations, seeking the perfect balance between stretchiness and sorrow. Let your creativity be your guide, for it is in the depths of our imagination that we find solace from the harsh realities of the world.
Remember, dear slime-maker, that the path of glycerin is but one of many in this twisted journey. Embrace the false promise of clarity and stretchiness, knowing that true fulfillment lies not in the destination, but in the trials and tribulations of the experimentation itself.

Step 4: Mold Your Misery with Clay

Enter the realm of clay – a medium as malleable as the facade you present to the world. Like the masks we wear to conceal our true selves, clay can be shaped and molded to add texture and structure to your slime creations.
Begin your descent into the abyss of clay by adding small increments to your slime mixture, feeling the weight of despair as it becomes one with your creation. As you knead the clay into the slime, consider how it mirrors the way you mold yourself to fit the expectations of others.
Experiment with different amounts of clay, from mere specks to substantial portions, and witness how each addition alters the consistency and feel of your slime. Will it provide a satisfying thickness, like the heavy burden of existence, or will it crumble under the pressure of your touch, like the fragility of your own psyche?
Explore the effects of clay on both under-activated and over-activated slime, observing how it interacts with the different states of your creation. Like the ever-shifting nature of your own emotions, the impact of clay may vary depending on the base it encounters.
As you embark on this clay-infused journey, consider the different types of clay available to you. Each one brings its own unique characteristics to the table, much like the various personas you adopt to navigate the treacherous landscape of life. From air-dry clays like plasticine and Model Magic to the enigmatic allure of Daiso, the choices are as diverse as the roles you play.
So go forth, dear slime-maker, and mold your misery with clay. Let your creativity be your guide as you sculpt and shape your slime, pouring your sorrows and frustrations into each squeeze and stretch. For it is in the act of creation that we find a temporary respite from the anguish of our existence.
Remember, in the end, we are all just clay in the hands of an indifferent universe – malleable, fragile, and destined to crumble. But through the art of slime-making, we can find a fleeting moment of control amidst the chaos.

Step 5: Embrace the Bitter Chill of Instant Snow

Prepare to plunge into the icy depths of instant snow – a deceptively innocent ingredient that holds within it the power to transform your slime into a frigid wasteland of despair. Like the fleeting moments of joy in a world of eternal sorrow, instant snow offers a temporary reprieve from the harsh realities of existence.
When selecting your instant snow, choose wisely. Opt for a variety that absorbs water, allowing it to become one with your slime, rather than a hollow imitation composed of shredded plastic. For in the pursuit of authenticity, we must embrace the truth, no matter how cold and unforgiving it may be.
Now, as you stand on the precipice of experimentation, steel yourself for the bitter chill that awaits. Begin by adding small amounts of instant snow to your existing slime creations, witnessing how each icy addition alters the texture and consistency of your work. Like the numbing effect of despair on the human soul, the instant snow will transform your slime into a frigid, unyielding mass.
But do not be content with mere surface-level exploration. Delve deeper into the abyss by experimenting with both dry and pre-moistened instant snow. Each approach offers its own unique path to misery, allowing you to craft a diverse range of soul-crushing slime concoctions.
As you toil in the icy wasteland of instant snow, let your imagination be your guide. Create jelly slime that squelches with the weight of a thousand sorrows, or cloud slime that drifts listlessly through the empty void of existence. In the end, it matters not what form your slime takes, for all paths lead to the same inevitable conclusion.
Remember, dear slime-maker, that even in the depths of despair, there is a twisted beauty to be found. Embrace the bitter chill of instant snow, and let it numb the pain of your mortal existence. For it is only in the coldest reaches of our creations that we may find a moment of solace in this unforgiving world.

Step 6: Dance in the Abyss of Creativity

And so, dear slime-maker, we find ourselves at the precipice of the final step – a leap into the vast, unknowable abyss of creativity. It is here, in the depths of your own imagination, that you will find the true essence of your slime-making journey.
Gone are the days of guided instruction and measured ingredients. Now, you must cast aside the shackles of conformity and embark on a path of pure, unadulterated experimentation. Embrace the chaos, for it is in the wild, untamed reaches of your mind that true innovation lurks.
As you stand on the edge of this creative chasm, feel the weight of endless possibilities bearing down upon you. The voices of a thousand unborn slime creations call out from the darkness, begging to be given form and substance. Will you answer their call, or will you turn away, forever haunted by the ghosts of your unrealized potential?
If you choose to take the leap, know that the path ahead is fraught with danger. Mold and bacteria lurk in the shadows, waiting to consume your creations and render them nothing more than festering masses of decay. But fear not, for with great risk comes great reward.
Scour the depths of your imagination for the rarest and most exotic ingredients. From the glittering sands of forgotten beaches to the shimmering scales of mythical beasts, no component is too outlandish or too sacred. Dive into a world of textures with foam beads, fishbowl beads, and plastic snow, each addition a new layer of complexity in your slime's story. Embrace the allure of color with mica powders, food coloring, and acrylic paints, transforming your slime into a vibrant tableau of emotion and depth.
Infuse your creations with scent, from the comforting aroma of vanilla to the mysterious allure of dragon's blood, each fragrance a doorway to a new dimension of sensory experience. Explore the boundaries of texture with sand, glitter, and even small toys, each element a testament to your slime's unique personality.
Combine these disparate ingredients in ways that defy logic and reason, creating slime that transcends the boundaries of what was once thought possible. Let your creation be a mirror of your own inner world – a kaleidoscope of emotion and turmoil, forever captured in a semi-solid state.
But remember, dear slime-maker, that with boundless creativity comes the ever-present specter of failure. For every transcendent slime creation, there will be a dozen that fall short – misshapen, lifeless, and devoid of purpose. Do not let these setbacks discourage you, for they are the necessary sacrifices on the altar of innovation.
In the end, it is not the destination that matters, but the journey itself. Embrace the abyss, let it consume you, and emerge reborn as a true master of the slime arts. For it is only in the depths of our own darkness that we can find the light of true creation.
So go forth, intrepid slime-maker, and dance in the abyss of creativity. Let your imagination run wild, your inhibitions dissolve, and your slime be a testament to the power of the human spirit. For in the end, we are all but mere vessels for the primordial ooze that binds us all.

Hello. I am looking for a face lotion for that at least has no petroleum or paraffin in it since it is dangerous for people who use oxygen breathers. I used to use Dermagor's Atopicalm, but sadly it has glycerin in it. Any and all tips are appreciated ❤️.

A 6-month-old boy is brought for a follow-up examination because of chronic constipation since the age of 1 week. Current treatment with rectal stimulation, glycerin suppositories, and 4 ounces of prune juice produces one firm string-like stool every 4 days. He was breast-fed until 2 weeks of age and then switched to a cow's milk-based formula. His current diet also includes cereals, fruits, and pureed vegetables. He has no vomiting but does occasionally spit up after meals. Growth and development are appropriate for age. Immunizations are up-to-date. Abdominal examination shows distention with no tenderness. Rectal examination shows no palpable stool in the ampulla.
As per NBME its Hirschsprung but I was thinking like microcolon/hypothyroid
Please let me know what you think

DAY: APRIL 12 2024
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I posted a few weeks back that my son was set to have a tonsillectomy and was looking for suggestions. Well he had the surgery about 2.5 weeks ago and I don't have words for how awful the experience has been. He wouldn't take pain meds in any drink we gave him. He wouldn't take pills. So we had to manage his pain somehow....and the only way we could come up with was suppositories. So i contacted a compound pharmacy and had tylonel and ibuprofen ones made. It was unpleasant for all involved.
Well a little less than 2 weeks of that, and now he absolutely freaks out whenever we have to change a BM. And I mean freaks out. Full throated screams and entire body clenching. He tenses up so much I can't even describe. So our options are force his legs open and clean (which we hate) or do what we can and then have him take a shower or bath and hope for the best. The 2nd approach we fear is going to lead to sores if he's not cleared properly.
He won't be reasoned with. We've tried calmly talking. Showing him we don't have "butt medicine" which is what we called the suppositories. We've literally tried everything. But the screaming is more intense than a normal tantrum. His eyes turn blood shot. His face gets red. This last time, there was bloody snot in his nose. It's like watching him be in the most excruciating pain 3-4 times a day.
And then...within 10 minutes, he's fine. Acting normal. Happy again. And then I'm left almost sick that he's literally giving himself nose bleeds he's so upset. Changing a poop now involves at least 2 people, and at least 1 strong enough to open his legs. We're getting kicked incredibly hard. We'll never find childcare with this problem (my wife is off until mid may and then starts a new job).
How am I going to explain this to anyone? I'm seriously contemplating just taking a video of him next time just so we have proof of what's happening. God forbid he be in public because the cops would ABSOLUTELY be called based on his yelling.
What kind of shitty parent worries about a 6 year old having a stroke? What have we done to him that he won't even let us do the thing we've done his entire life? Should we have let him go pain med free after major surgery? It just seemed so cruel. And that he could cause his throat to open and bleeding.
I'm just lost.
Edit: The worst part is that my wife saw this coming. She kept getting upset when we'd don't he suppositories because she said that it made her feel like we were raping him. I told her I hated it too but we needed to do it because if we didn't he would be in immense pain. He also had 4 teeth pulled at the time of the tonsillectomy and his ears cleaned out because he can't do the dentist or ENT so we scheduled as much as we could under that anesthesia. We were told that's the most dangerous part for kids so we didn't wanna make him go through that more than once if we didn't have to.
But poor guy, literally his entire face hurt and he can't express or understand why. The first couple days we cried just as much 2nd guessing our choice as he did in pain. But my wife saw the trauma coming and I convinced her it was the lesser of 2 evils b/c of the pain. Idk what we could do differently, but i was wrong and my child is paying the price.

Surgery was 4/1.
Finally had a good 💩 on day 7! I was good about taking the stool softeners but it took adding Miralax days 5/6 and glycerine suppositories to get the damn trains out of the station. Been regular since!
Back to work (day 7) but was already cleared to work from home until 4/22.
Found out day 8 eggs are a big no go right now. I felt nauseous most of the day and stuck to broth, crackers, and oatmeal. Still didn’t feel great yesterday and finally cleared up today.
Finally sleeping on my side (day 8) - but for short stretches.
Had trouble sleeping day 8/9. My stomach was making me very uncomfortable.
Day 10 - think I may be past the worst of the discomfort where the wee lil beastie used to be. I was able to laugh without hold my belly and am taking deep breaths without fear. I still feel a little twinge but it’s not even uncomfortable. I ate normalish today but also took an anti gas pill tonight and that provided a lot of relief.
Next milestone will be getting back to walking 1-3 miles a day.

Recycling used cooking oil is not only an eco-friendly practice but also a crucial step towards reducing waste and conserving resources. In Florida, various methods are available for properly disposing of and recycling cooking oil, ensuring that you contribute to a cleaner environment and support the local economy.
One of the best methods to recycle cooking oil in Florida is to take advantage of the county's recycling programs. For instance, Brevard County Solid Waste Management Department provides used vegetable oil recycling drop-off locations, where the oil is processed into products such as biofuel and soap. Before disposing of your oil, make sure to filter it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any food particles and store it in a dark place to maintain its quality.
In addition to county recycling programs, many Florida restaurants also manage and dispose of their used cooking oil in an environmentally friendly way, following best practices and adhering to state regulations. As a consumer, you can support these restaurants by dining at their establishments, knowing that they take their responsibility for sustainable waste management seriously.
Educating yourself on proper (cooking oil disposal and recycling) methods will ensure that you do your part to maintain a greener Florida, one drop of oil at a time.

Understanding Cooking Oil Disposal

Environmental Impact of Improper Disposal

Disposing of used cooking oil incorrectly can lead to environmental consequences. Pouring it down drains, sinks, or toilets can cause blockages in your plumbing, and it can even reach local water systems. This can lead to water pollution and harm marine life and ecosystems.
Improper disposal in natural areas, such as bushes or parks, can harm local wildlife, as the oil contaminates soil and water sources. Additionally, it can also release greenhouse gases contributing to climate change.
To mitigate adverse environmental impacts, proper recycling or disposal of cooking oil is essential. Furthermore, recycling used oil can produce renewable energy sources like biodiesel, which can help reduce the carbon footprint.

Florida's Regulations on Cooking Oil Recycling

Florida has specific regulations in place to ensure the responsible recycling of used cooking oil. Both residential and commercial guidelines exist for cooking oil recycling.
Residential recycling: Many local waste management programs in Florida accept used cooking oil. You should:
​

1. Cool and strain the oil, removing food particles.
2. Store in a sealed, food-safe container.
3. Dispose of the oil at designated recycling centers.

Here's a suggested method for Florida residents:
​

• Check with your local waste management for cooking oil disposal options.
• Locate nearby recycling centers that accept cooking oil.
• Bring used cooking oil to the appropriate facilities and follow guidelines for disposal.

Commercial recycling: Florida has regulations in place for restaurants and commercial kitchens handling large volumes of cooking oil. Companies must employ licensed grease haulers and follow comprehensive guidelines. Establishments have specific responsibilities to ensure compliance:
​

• Maintaining records for oil disposal
• Working with licensed haulers
• Ensuring waste containers are properly stored and labeled

Recycling Methods for Home Use

Cooling and Containment

When recycling used cooking oil at home, it's essential to properly cool and contain the oil.
First, allow the oil to cool before handling it. Metal coffee cans or plastic butter containers with lids work well for storing used oil. However, make sure the container is labeled to prevent accidental consumption. You don't need to refrigerate the used oil unless you plan to reuse it. Keep filling the container each time you cook until it's full.
Some additional tips for home disposal include:
​

• Absorbing used oil with paper towels and disposing of them in the trash.
• Repurposing old oil for non-culinary uses, like lubricating tools or hinges.

Remember: Only store completely cooled oil in containers and avoid using plastic bags, as they may leak.

Local Drop-Off Locations

After properly cooling and containing the used cooking oil, you can take it to a local drop-off location for recycling. Many cities in Florida have designated recycling centers for used cooking oils. To identify nearby locations, you can:
​

• Search online for "cooking oil recycling near me" or check your city's waste management website.
• Call your local waste management facility for information on drop-off centers.

Commercial Recycling Solutions

Grease Collection Services

In Florida, numerous companies provide grease collection services for your commercial kitchen. These services help you manage and dispose of used cooking oil in an eco-friendly manner.
When choosing a provider, make sure to look for certifications, such as EPA licenses, to ensure a reputable and reliable service.
Some benefits of using grease collection services include:
​

• Convenience: Collection services come to your location and pick up your used cooking oil.
• Safety: Proper disposal helps prevent potential hazards that could result from improper handling of used cooking oil.
• Environmentally friendly: Many grease collection providers recycle the oil, reducing its environmental impact.

Biofuel Conversion Programs

Another excellent method to recycle used cooking oil in Florida is through biofuel conversion programs. By participating in these programs, your business can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to a greener environment.
Some essential points to note about biofuel conversion programs are:
​

• Conversion Process: Used cooking oil is treated and transformed into biodiesel, a cleaner-burning fuel alternative.
• Multiple Applications: Biodiesel can power various vehicles and equipment, minimizing carbon emissions.
• Economic Benefits: Such programs support local economies by creating jobs and promoting sustainable practices.

DIY Recycling Projects

In this section, we will explore two DIY projects you can undertake to recycle used cooking oil: soap making and homemade biodiesel production.

Soap Making

Transforming cooking oil into soap is an eco-friendly and creative way to recycle used oil. To begin, you'll need the following materials:
​

• Used cooking oil: It's essential to filter the oil to remove any particles or debris before the process.
• Lye: Sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide.
• Distilled water: To dissolve the lye.
• Essential oils, fragrances, and colorants (optional): To add aroma and character to your soap.

The basic soap making process involves these steps:
​

1. Prepare lye solution: Mix the lye with distilled water, taking necessary safety precautions, as lye is a caustic substance. Allow it to cool.
2. Mix oil and lye: Preheat your filtered cooking oil and then slowly add the cooled lye solution as you stir gently.
3. Blend the mixture: Use a hand blender to blend the mixture until it thickens and reaches trace—the point at which the soap starts to form.
4. Add fragrance and colors (optional): Customize your soap by adding essential oils, fragrances, and natural colorants.
5. Mold and set: Pour the mixture into soap molds and let it harden for 24 hours.
6. Cure: Remove the soap from the molds and let it cure in a well-ventilated area for 4-6 weeks.

Remember to research thoroughly and follow safety guidelines while working with lye.

Homemade Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a renewable and biodegradable fuel made from used cooking oils, animal fats, or vegetable oils. Here are the primary materials needed for biodiesel production:
​

• Used cooking oil: Filtered to eliminate debris.
• Methanol: Acts as a catalyst in the process.
• Sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide: Also called lye, used as a catalyst.
• Distilled water: For washing the biodiesel.

The process for making biodiesel at home is as follows:
​

1. Determine the amount of catalyst required: Test your used oil to calculate the amount of lye needed, as it varies depending on the oil's acidity.
2. Prepare methoxide: Combine methanol and the calculated quantity of lye, wearing safety gear while handling these chemicals. This mixture creates a catalyst known as methoxide.
3. Heat the oil: Warm the filtered cooking oil to around 130°F (55°C).
4. Add methoxide to oil: Slowly and carefully incorporate the methoxide into the oil, stirring thoroughly for even distribution.
5. React and settle: Allow the mixture to react for at least 2 hours. Two layers will form: glycerin at the bottom and biodiesel at the top.
6. Separate glycerin and biodiesel: Carefully remove the glycerin layer and reserve it for other uses, such as additional soap making. The remaining liquid is biodiesel.
7. Wash and dry the biodiesel: Wash the biodiesel using distilled water until it runs clear. Then, let it dry completely before use as fuel.

Keep in mind that your homemade biodiesel may not meet industry standards, and using it in engines may void warranties. Conduct thorough research before attempting this process and using the resulting fuel in your vehicle.

Best Practices for Cooking Oil Recycling

Storage and Handling

It is essential to store and handle used cooking oil properly before recycling it.
Ensure the oil is cool before proceeding, as hot oil can be dangerous and damage recycling equipment. Strain the oil by using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any food particles or debris. This will help maintain the oil's quality and prevent it from degrading too quickly.
A suitable container, such as a metal coffee can or plastic butter container, should be designated for storing used cooking oil. Label the container to avoid confusion and accidental consumption.
Store it in a dark place, as exposure to light can hasten the oil's breakdown, affecting its flavor and usability.

Reducing Oil Usage

Implementing measures to reduce cooking oil usage will decrease the overall amount of oil that needs to be recycled. Here are some tips on how to minimize oil use in your cooking:
​

1. Choose the right cooking method: Opt for healthier, low-oil cooking methods such as steaming, grilling, or baking instead of frying, where possible.
2. Use non-stick cookware: This reduces the amount of oil needed to prevent food from sticking to the pan.
3. Measure oil carefully: Use measuring spoons or cups to help limit the oil used in recipes.
4. Control oil absorption: Use paper towels to drain excess oil from fried foods, and if frying is necessary, ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding food to minimize its absorption.

Community and Government Involvement

Local Initiatives

In Florida, numerous local initiatives actively promote the responsible recycling of used cooking oil. These programs often involve collaborations between community members, businesses, and recycling facilities. An example of such an initiative is the Grease for Green program, which encourages restaurants and residents to recycle their used cooking oil. These programs partner with local biofuel producers, and they play a vital role in reducing waste and producing sustainable energy. As a resident in Florida, you can contribute by locating and participating in these initiatives within your community.

Government Incentives

The Florida government recognizes the importance of recycling used cooking oil. It supports various incentives for both private and commercial entities.
One example is the Renewable Energy Tax Credits. Businesses investing in biofuel production can get this incentive. This incentive encourages companies to convert used cooking oil into biofuels. It also helps make them economically viable.
Additionally, the state government provides grants for projects focusing on the research and development of new recycling technologies.
As a Florida resident, you can benefit from these government incentives. You can stay informed and support businesses that promote sustainable practices. Examples include biofuel manufacturers and eco-friendly restaurants.
By participating in local initiatives and supporting government incentives, you actively contribute to the sustainable and eco-friendly recycling of used cooking oil in Florida.

26F, possible PCOS(lap was to see if I had endo, no endo found but doc said I have enlarged ovaries so it could be PCOS, I find out more at my post op visit), only meds I have taken are two Percocet’s last week for pain and the week before surgery I took an anti diarrhea cause I had stomach issues.
This is so gross so TMI but I had surgery 6 days ago on 4/2. I didn’t poop until 4/6 and it was just a few pebbles. I have passed a ton of gas though. Finally today I went again but same problem, barely anything. I did a glycerin suppository and a few minutes later felt like I had to go. Nothing but the suppository and another larger pebble came out. I decided to take one more since the suppository came out full. I waited and then held it till I couldn’t fight the urge. This time about 4-6 inches of stool came out in a regular stool way but a bit harder form. I don’t wanna do another suppository tonight and currently feel like I don’t have to go again at the moment. Should I just take a stool softener maybe tomorrow afternoon? I am afraid to take one tonight because I have somewhere to go tomorrow morning and the last time I took a stool softener was when I gave birth and it messed my stomach up. I’m just so afraid of getting impacted of something but I don’t really have terrible pain in my stomach. Just some near my belly button and pelvis but that’s where my incisions are. Is the stool I had enough to show that it will hopefully be improving with some stool softeners? Also, I have been eating normally since about 4/4 and have not taken anything for the constipation besides the suppositories today because I just was hoping it would work itself out.
Also, do my incisions seem to be healing? Both incision were glued. I don’t see my doc again until next Monday.
TW: Belly button incision: https://ibb.co/T8KV8G2
TW: Left lower pelvis incision: https://ibb.co/YNSwcNH

This is so gross so TMI but I had surgery 6 days ago on 4/2. I didn’t poop until 4/6 and it was just a few pebbles. I have passed a ton of gas though. Finally today I went again but same problem, barely anything. I did a glycerin suppository and a few minutes later felt like I had to go. Nothing but the suppository and another larger pebble came out. I decided to take one more since the suppository came out full. I waited and then held it till I couldn’t fight the urge. This time about 4-6 inches of stool came out in a regular stool way but a bit harder form. I don’t wanna do another suppository tonight and currently feel like I don’t have to go again at the moment. Should I just take a stool softener maybe tomorrow afternoon? I am afraid to take one tonight because I have somewhere to go tomorrow morning and the last time I took a stool softener was when I gave birth and it messed my stomach up. I’m just so afraid of getting impacted of something but I don’t really have terrible pain in my stomach. Just some near my belly button and pelvis but that’s where my incisions are. Is the stool I had enough to show that it will hopefully be improving with some stool softeners? Also, I have been eating normally since about 4/3-4/4 and have not taken anything for the constipation besides the suppositories today because I just was hoping it would work itself out.

We are at our wits' end. We've tried everything -- massages, prunes, prune juice, water, pears, constipation ease prune extract. She hasn't pooped in 3+ days and tiny hard smeapellets come out. She's miserable and writhing and crying red in the face. We are ready to try the glycerin suppository.
​
Those parents who gave it to relatively young children (<1 yr old), can you share your experiences and any tips/tricks during application?
Thanks in advance.

Our son was born at 28+3 gestational age back in December. After 75 relatively smooth days in the NICU, he finally came home with an NG tube at the beginning of March. He never really got above 50% bottle volume and has always been fairly inconsistent. We were told his light should "flip on" (as it seems many others have also been told...) in 2-4 weeks at home, and the NG will likely be able to be removed, but that hasn't been the case. While elated that he's home and healthy, it's been a struggle getting him to feed, as I'm sure many others can relate.
Around 34 weeks gestational age, he began baby led feeding on bottles, but around 37 weeks gestational age, my wife and I noticed that the NICU seemed to give up on baby led feeding and started offering him bottles every 3 hours, whether he was cueing or not.
At home, he had been making seemingly pretty decent progress on his bottles. Some days taking a full bottle here and there. He's always been gaggy and we've had to be very careful offering bottles to him. Second attempt on a bottle almost always makes him gag, then usually spit up quite a bit. After seeing speech outpatient for the first time, they said moving the gag reflex back in his mouth is something that will take time and something we will have to work on. We've been referred for an OT and PT evaluation, but haven't been seen for that yet. Personally, I think the continuous gagging along with forced feeding has possibly led to an oral/feeding aversion. And I think this should have and could have been caught and cautiously treated much, much sooner.
It feels like he's treated like a robot, not a human. 75mL every 3 hours, otherwise he won't grow properly. I'm sure this could also be contributing to his possible aversion? It feels like we overfeed him, then he spits up or is much more likely to gag/spit up.
Finally, this past week has been the roughest. He was constipated for about 3-4 days, which also seemed to be affecting his feeding, and he's totally regressed since. Our pediatrician's office recommended giving him a glycerin chip suppository that worked great, but since then, he still no longer wants anything to do with bottles, and even fusses quite a bit during his NG feedings. I'm worried that we've given him an association that feeding = feeling constipated/full. I'm also worried that we haven't been given a true solution to the constipation, and he will continue to become constipated, and therefore continue to struggle with feeding. We are seeing his pediatrician on Tuesday, where we will certainly be mentioning all of our concerns.
Reading through the subreddit, my wife and I had seen Rowena Bennett's book mentioned many times, and we've begun to read it. Obviously, like so many others, the book has really resonated with us. I guess I'm just incredibly frustrated at this point, feeling like the medical system could do a much better job at feeding/oral aversion education all around. All of this frustration appears to be entirely avoidable simply through proper education of all parties involved. We're preparing to try the techniques from her book next week after he sees his pediatrician.
Shouldn't there be more education for parents, nurses, and doctors to avoid situations like this? It was barely even ever mentioned during his NICU stay. And his pediatrician hasn't mentioned anything about it either. I think what frustrates me the most is it seems like everyone is unaware of the aversion as a possibility and even unable to treat it. And we (my wife and I), who aren't medical professionals, are doing the hard work, research, and advocating for what we think is the best care for our son. Shouldn't the medical professionals be knowledgeable about this? Shouldn't it be standard education for everyone who deals with preemies to avoid aversion? Maybe it just isn't standard in our area. Again, it seems to me like it's almost completely avoidable. We're feeling very disillusioned and left out to dry by the medical system at this point. No one seems to care about his feeding and getting him off the NG aside from us. No one has skin in the game, so no one appears to truly, actually care aside from us. I'm sure it's mostly just frustration, but I feel like speech therapy or his pediatrician or the NICU or SOMEONE should have seen the warning signs of a possible feeding/oral aversion.
TL;DR: Feeling very frustrated and overwhelmed with a possible feeding aversion that I think is almost completely avoidable. But the medical professionals we're dealing with don't seem to be aware of this.

Hi mamas. I feel like I have Damocles' sword hanging over my head and I'm at loss of what to do. I appreciate any comments you may have on the matter.
I'm 15 weeks pregnant and recently got back my results from the transnuchal scan. Chromosomic anomalies-wise everything seems to be good, baby had a nasal bone, 1.5 mm at that point in the nape of his head where they measure him/her (at 12 weeks), his heart seemed good, so did his brain, his bladder, etc. All peachy.
Problem was the other part of this whole shebang, where they measure my uterine arteries and do the blood draw. The report said I have a 1:71 chance of pre eclampsia and IUGR and the doctor's recommendation was to put me on 150 mg aspirin nightly until week 34, additional to the labetalol I'm on because of Innappropriate Sinus Tachycardia + higher than preferred BP (120/80 usually) and progesterone vaginal suppositories every night as well because I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and I'm at high risk of cervical incompetency.
I was devastated. I spent two days alternatively crying and going further down the Google rabbit hole for all these terms I had never concerned myself with and grappling to terms with the possibility of having a really premature baby. Then yesterday I had my appointment with my OBGYN to go over the results.
He was mostly calming and reassuring and my husband at least was a lot more at peace than when we came in, but I was (still am really) ruminating on it. I'm on quetiapine for OCD and it's not doing a lot of favors as far as intrusive thoughts, my main compulsion, goes. I used to be on ziprasidone and it was the most beautiful thing in the world but my shrink switched it after I became pregnant.
Anyway, the issue right now is that last night my husband asked me "for the last time, do you want to move back to Buenos Aires?"
I was born in the capital and my entire family is there. I did mention after the dr's appointment, while crying, that all I needed was a big group hug from my family and it killed me that I couldn't have it. 2 years ago shortly after we married we moved to his hometown 500 km away because he was going through a very rough time psychologically and needed to be near his folks. He's doing much better now but I HATE it here. His family is the coldest I've ever met, I tried really hard these past 24 months to bond with them to no avail, and his twin sister outright despises me (she lives an hour away thank God). I have no friends here other than his friends and I haven't had any luck joining the free random classes that the municipality offers, like decorative painting and stuff. People my age don't attend those kinds of things here.
Next month our lease is up and we have to either renew the rent contract for another two years or move someplace else. The thing is, here rent and utilities are far, far cheaper than in Buenos Aires, even if groceries and produce are a bit more expensive and (considering this is a small town) I don't have nearly half anything available as easily as I would in the capital, the cost of living is still about half of what it would be there. And, the best thing in my opinion, there is seldom any crime. Worst tragedy this year so far is that last week an elderly man with dementia in the next town over (!) wandered off his house early one morning and was found dead in a corn field or something three days later. I can go out at night when it's pitch black outside and I know that absolutely nothing will happen to me. There are enough public (so free) daycares available and the (private, bilingual) kindergarten I'm interested in is very cheap in comparison to the cost of private education in the capital, which is easily x10 times more expensive.
On the opposing side, we have the fact that the job availability here is non existent, whereas there's a lot more and better paid in Buenos Aires. I would be close to my family, which I'm sorely needing right now, and if my baby were to be premature and/or require any specialized care, it would be minutes away. Where I live currently there are no neonatology centers and the baby would have to be derived elsewhere anyway, effectively hours away in many possible directions.
But life in Buenos Aires right now is like living in GTA city as far as crime goes. I grew up in a very nice neighbourhood (don't have the slightest chance of moving back exactly there right now) and even there there have been robberies and break ins and carjackings ending in multiple deaths, everyday. The only place we have any real possibility of moving to so far is in an even worse part of town. Last time I visited, a little over two months ago, I spent the whole time there absolutely paralyzed in fear that we could be assaulted at any time. My husband just very narrowly avoided us being victims of an actual carjacking. It's so so dangerous even inside of your own house. Nowhere is safe, and Argentina is currently going through the worst economic and social crisis of this century, even worse than 2001, so it's going to get a lot worse before it gets better. More than half the population, myself and my family included, have fallen below the poverty line. People are going so hungry they have started eating street dogs. I have no job, no one will hire me for any position when I'm pregnant, and my husband is making around $350 USD a month when the cost of living (for 2 people, not even counting a baby) is around three times that.
I just don't know what to do. Do I move and bet for my husband to find a better job, plus the possibility of my baby having better medical attention if they were to need it, but risk us being robbed or killed any day? Or just stay here and hope and pray that the situation will get better, at least economically, and that my baby will be fine, but go with absolutely no outside support other than my husband?
What would you do in my position? Please be sincere. I'm analyzing every possible side to this issue and still can't come to a conclusion I feel okay with.

For some background info I’m 24 years old, 6’4, 170 pounds and have a pretty terrible diet. I work at a grocery store so I’m constantly moving and on my feet.
Over the past month or so I’ve been experiencing what I believe to be constipation or some sort of blockage. I will eat, and feel the urge to go, but only get small soft stools, or semi long stools that vary in size. Some are long and thin, and the others are flat. I feel fine for the most part, it’s just when I’ve eaten a lot and haven’t had a good bowel movement over the course of a couple days, I start to get a pain around my ribs, and on my lower left side, primarily and sometimes my right lower side, right around my hips. I can pass gas, and don’t feel nauseous or anything like that.
I’ve been doing some lurking here for a bit and tried the following remedies:

• I went from drinking 30-40oz of water a day to 80oz a day.
• I have tried a fleet glycerin suppository. I felt like there was a fairly large stool ready to come out but I couldn’t push it out.
• Prune juice is what I take the most of. I will drink an 8oz can warmed up every couple of days or so to clear out whatever I ate in the last couple of days. It comes out like diarrhea though, never solid.
• I tried a fleet glycerin enema, but I could barely keep the liquid in for a minute.

I’ve been chatting with my doctor and they told me that I need to take miralax and colace twice a day and eat more fiber on top of some things that I’ve mentioned in the list above. My only concern is that with adding more fiber on what I believe to be a blockage doesn’t seem like it would do much.
I’m going to try the miralax and colace next but I’m just tired of spending money on things that don’t seem to be working.