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Getting outside is a wonderful way to decompress and enjoy the natural world. Of the many activities you can choose from, hiking is among the best because it’s thrilling and works for all experience levels. The essence of any hike is to enjoy it wholly without worrying about fatigue or discomfort. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you remain comfortable on hikes.

Pack Water and Snacks

During your hike, you’ll need to keep hydrated, so pack a large water bottle or two and an electrolyte-rich drink to keep your body hydrated. Additionally, you should pack some healthy snacks or even a sandwich for your outdoor adventure. Stick to snacks that supply complex carbs, natural fats, and protein. Trail mix is an excellent example of a perfect hiking snack. 

Remember to eat something and drink water before your hike to keep your body fueled with energy.

Invest in Quality Gear

Buying quality gear can enhance your hiking experience and keep you comfortable on the trail. Get a walking stick to support your movement, quality boots to keep your feet comfortable and protected, and a hiking backpack that can accommodate all your essentials,. 

Additionally, invest in an outdoor belt or suspenders to keep your pants securely around your waist; one of the key reasons to add suspenders to your wardrobeis that they’re comfy and perfect for any outdoor adventure.

Use a Map

As you pack your backpack, remember to include navigation tools. More specifically, you’ll need a compass and a path map. Relying on your phone’s GPS isn’t ideal because you may encounter areas with no signal.

Dress in Layers

During a hike, you’ll probably encounter various elevations, which can leave you feeling a bit colder as you climb higher. However, all the movement will also warm your body up, so there may be periods when you feel hot. By wearing layers, you can easily add or remove clothing according to what you find the most comfortable. 

Consider buying moisture-wicking apparel or clothing designed for athletic activities. Some garments regulate temperature better, so they’ll be able to trap more heat or keep you cooler as you hike. 

Move at Your Pace

Our final tip to help you remain comfortable on hikes is to walk at a pace that works for you. Not pushing yourself beyond your limits is essential. Hiking is about having fun, not making it a strenuous task that can lead to injury. Therefore, choose a path within your experience level and take breaks whenever you need to.

Owning a vintage Jeep means having a piece of history on four wheels you can use anytime. These classic vehicles have a unique charm that modern cars can hardly match, and their special characteristics make them turn heads on the road.

To ensure your classic vehicle remains in optimal condition and continues to dominate the off-roads, you must follow a comprehensive vintage Jeep maintenance checklist. These steps will help you keep your vintage Jeep running smoothly, looking perfect, and active for a long time.

Regular Inspection and Cleaning

To keep your vintage Jeep in its best shape, you must make it a habit to inspect it regularly. Check for signs of rust, loose or damaged parts, leaks, and listen for any unusual noises while driving. Regularly cleaning your Jeep, inside and out, will preserve its aesthetic and prevent dirt from accumulating on the exterior.

Fluid Checks and Changes

Regularly check the oil level and quality, coolant levels, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and differential fluids. The seals in older vehicles can deteriorate over time and cause leaks. Promptly address any fluid leaks to prevent damage to the engine or other components.

Brakes and Suspension

Regularly inspect and service the brakes, including the brake pads, rotors, and brake lines. You should also check the suspension system for any signs of wear, like worn-out bushings or shocks. A damaged suspension is one of the most common vintage Jeep problems, and this system is crucial for a safe and smooth driving experience.

Tire Maintenance

Tire maintenance is essential for vintage Jeeps. Check tire pressure regularly, and inspect them for signs of wear. Rotate the tires regularly to promote even wear and maximize their lifespan. Ensure the spare tire is in good condition and inflated, especially before off-roading when you might need to install it.

Electrical System

A vintage Jeep’s electrical system is more basic than modern vehicles but still requires attention. Check the battery regularly for signs of corrosion, and ensure it holds a charge. Inspect the wiring for damaged sections, and clean the electrical connections to prevent poor conductivity and potential electrical issues.

Lubrication

Lubrication is essential to reduce friction and extend the life of moving parts within your vehicle. Regularly grease the fittings on your vintage Jeep, paying particular attention to the drivetrain, suspension, and steering components.

Owning a vintage Jeep is a rewarding experience, but it demands extra attention to keep it running smoothly and looking its best. By following this maintenance checklist, you can preserve the charm and character of your classic vehicle while enjoying a safe and reliable driving experience!

Do you love the thrill of off-roading but worry about its environmental impact? Preserving these fantastic overlanding trails is paramount to the future of this widely enjoyed activity! Read on to discover how to be an environmentally conscious off-roader by balancing adventure with respect for our planet.

The Environmental Impact of Off-Roading

Before we dive into being an environmentally conscious off-roader,you should understand the importance of sustainable overlanding practices. Off-roading can contribute to environmental issues, such as habitat destruction and climate change. Unfortunately, the native vegetation and wildlife in many off-roading destinations are the first to feel the pain of irresponsible overlanding activities.

Remember, you’re not the only off-roading enthusiast in the area—many off-roading trails see thousands of motorists every year! Over time, irresponsible off-roading can significantly interfere with the safety of various locations.

Tip I: Purchase a Fuel Efficient Off-Roader

As you embark on your journey to becoming an environmentally conscious off-roader, consider investing in a green off-roading vehicle. Hybrid options, such as the Jeep Hybrid 4xe, offer a blend of traditional fuel and electric power, reducing emissions without compromising performance. For people looking toward the future, the Jeep Recon EV signifies a shift to fully electric off-roading, eliminating tailpipe emissions entirely.

A diesel engine 4×4 is a very practical choice for off-roading enthusiasts. Diesel engines are often more fuel-efficient than their petrol counterparts. This increased fuel efficiency results in fewer carbon emissions per mile driven, making diesel a more environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, diesel engines provide more torque at low speeds, which is ideal for off-roading situations where slow, powerful movements are common and often necessary. You can purchase a used Jeep Wrangler on the second-hand market that features excellent diesel configurations!

Tip II: Respect Trail Signage, Wildlife, & Surrounding Communities

Trail signs are not there to limit your adventure but to ensure you leave no trace of your off-roading activities. Sticking to designated trails is crucial for preserving the environment’s integrity. Off-trail driving can damage sensitive vegetation, disrupt native wildlife, and contribute to soil erosion. Trail signs also serve as protective barriers for surrounding communities, preventing potential conflicts with locals. By respecting these boundaries, your off-roading adventures won’t negatively impact the natural world or the people in the area.

Tip III: Plan an Eco-Friendly Route

Before setting out, research the area you plan to explore. Learn about its ecosystem, the local wildlife, and any environmental concerns. Use this knowledge to avoid sensitive areas, and choose routes that cause the least disturbance.

Consider the timing of your adventure. Off-roading during certain times of the year, such as breeding or nesting seasons, are more disruptive for local wildlife. Lastly, factor in the distance and fuel efficiency of your route. The eco-friendliness of your route is a factor to consider before off-roading.

Adventure doesn’t have to come at the expense of our planet. With mindful practices and respect for nature, you can enjoy the thrill of off-roading while preserving the environment.

In Texas, gardening is war. Though there are plenty of native plants that find a way to thrive in the heat and humidity, many typical garden plants are hard to grow. This difficulty can be a source of frustration for vegans looking to grow fruits and veggies. Below are four tips for Texas gardeners to tackle the heat.

1. Make the Most of Shade

The main problem with gardening in Texas isn’t the soil or humidity; it’s the summer heat. In August, you can expect temperatures to reach triple digits on most days. That’s just too much time in direct sunlight for many plants. Delicate herbs, especially, don’t stand a chance. So, if you want to try gardening in Texas, figure out which side of your house or apartment gets the most shade during the late parts of the day and turn that space into your gardening haven.

2. Use More Mulch Than Usual

Keeping plants watered when temperatures are high can feel downright impossible. As soon as you water your plants, it seems like the sun just evaporates everything. The trick is to choose your watering times carefully and put down a thick layer of mulch around your plants to protect their roots. The mulch will help keep the sun from getting to the water before your plants can take a drink.

3. Slow Flow Irrigation Is Your Friend

It pays to install a slow-flow irrigation system for in-ground gardening. These systems allow water to drip into the ground near your plants over time. You won’t have to worry so much about staying on top of the watering during the hottest parts of the day, and your plants will get plenty of hydration.

4. Consider Installing a Greenhouse

Installing a greenhouse in your backyard could be worthwhile if you’re struggling with gardening. A greenhouse helps Texas gardeners tackle the heat by controlling where the sunlight comes from. Looking to set up a greenhouse quickly? Consider getting a versatile dome greenhouse to control pests and allow for customizable insulation.

Gardening in Texas can be difficult if you’re new to the region, but plenty of people make it work. Make sure to check out some books on Texas gardening and focus on plants that grow well in your zone.

Texas is a vast state with some amazing animals. There’s a park for you; whether you want to see exotic creatures from far-off lands or want to admire some animals you’re likely only to see in the Lone Star State. Here are a few incredible wildlife parks to see in Texas and some of the animals that you may encounter.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Austwell is a fantastic park for those who want to experience rare animals. This park is one of the only places on earth where guests may encounter the critically endangered whooping crane. While guests are in the area, they may also want to swing by the nearby coastal regions for a chance to see dolphins.

Ann W. Richard Congress Avenue Bridge

While not distinctly a park on its own, those looking to see wildlife around Lake Travis may want to swing by Austin in the summer and walk the Ann W. Richard Congress Avenue Bridge. This bridge is the largest urban colony of bats in the world, and those interested in seeing the beauty of them flying through the night skies won’t want to miss the opportunity.

Franklin Drive-Thru Safari

Some of the most incredible wildlife parks to see in Texas allow you to experience animals from far-off lands. Texas is home to many exotic wildlife parks, with the Franklin Drive-Thru Safari being one of the best experiences. The drive-thru park has over 1,000 animal species, such as zebras, giraffes, camels, and kangaroos. It even has designated areas where guests may walk around and interact more closely with the animals. It’s an incredible experience for any animal lover and one you don’t want to miss.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

The Big Bend Ranch State Park is the largest park in Texas and has positively breathtaking landscapes and scenery for visitors to take in. Additionally, those wanting to see some wild animals won’t leave disappointed. Guests may frequently see mule deer, collared peccary, gray foxes, jackrabbits, and desert cottontails. Keep your camera ready when you head to this park because there’s something beautiful around every bend.

Everyone has been to at least one barbeque, and nothing is quite like them. Nothing is better than getting together with friends after work to celebrate whatever you feel like over great food and refreshing drinks.

Some of the other things you might find are great games you might not otherwise play. If you’re looking for a good time, here are some of the best games to play at a barbeque with friends.

Giant Jenga for Adults

A timeless classic supersized is the game of Jenga! This game focuses on an individual’s ability to remove blocks effectively without causing the tower to crash. While it might sound like a huge stress bomb, it’s actually a great stress relief! Even if you don’t succeed and witness the blocks crashing in front of you, the good news is you can always stack them and go again and again.

Tug-of-War Is a Classic

This classic game is more of a team builder where everyone will need to participate. The toughest part of this game is picking sides and forming teams. You’ll build new relationships and strengthen old ones with this game. Because it’s a team game, you can continually develop new teams and challenges lasting for hours—a true classic for any memorable backyard barbeque.

Bean Bag Toss for the Win

One of the more up-and-coming games would have to be cornhole or bean bag toss. This game takes a little more finesse, having to toss a bean bag into a hole roughly twenty to thirty feet from you.

While it might sound simple enough, it can become challenging after a few throws—and the competition gets steeper the longer the game goes on. This challenge rings true if you’re playing game after game with seemingly no end in sight, which might be a sign you’re obsessed with cornhole. Though, it isn’t the worst problem to have.

These are just some of the best games to play at a barbeque with friends if you are looking for extra entertainment for your barbeque. As simple as they seem, these games are well worth your time while hanging out with friends.

Everybody loves a creepy story around the campfire when you’re out in the woods. Cryptids are strange or unusual creatures that may or may not exist. Most of us are familiar with bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster, but do you know about some of the most incredible monsters living here in Texas?

Caddo Critter

Nearly every culture has its own take on the sasquatch legend. Ape-like cryptids are widespread from the Hibagon in Japan to the Florida skunk ape. Whether it’s bigfoot, a yeti, or whatever you want to call it, mysterious ape-like figures supposedly roam the woods. Texas has its own humanoid monster known as the Caddo Critter, named because people saw it near the town of Caddo in the 1960s. The Caddo Critter is around eight feet tall and has dark gray fur.

Ole Hippie

Lake monsters are another of the most common cryptids because these monsters can be anything from a log popping out of a lake to a blurry photo of the exact moment a bird grabs a fish from the water. Texas has quite a few lake monsters, but one of the most fun is the legend of Ole Hippie, a giant creature that likes hanging out around nude beaches. Ole Hippie is just one of the peculiar mysteries of Lake Travis, and people still aren’t sure if it exists.

Goatman

Most cryptids are mysterious because we believe them to be animals that usually want to get left alone and avoid humans. However, one of the most incredible monsters living in Texas is Goatman. Some people believe this monster is a relative of the more well-known Chupacabra, while others think it may be a human serial killer pretending to be a monster. Goatman stands out from other cryptids by being openly hostile to people. They say the humanoid beast with the head of a goat hunts down people and may even be able to do accurate impressions of their friends or loved ones to lead people into a trap.

Teaching Little Leaguers the basics of the game can be challenging. Yet, practicing the best Little League drills that help improve a team can be the difference between a successful season and a frustrating one.

Soft-Tossing Fly Balls

Catching flyballs is one of the biggest bugaboos for youngsters just starting out in Little League. While the professionals make every flyout routine, children will find creative ways to missplay basic popups. \ The primary reason kids struggle in this aspect of the game is difficulty judging how to catch a flyball due to a lack of depth perception.

It takes time and hours of practice before each flyout becomes instinctive. Fear is another underlying issue that plagues some young athletes. A single injury can scare them away from the ball for the rest of the season. Using softer baseballs and throwing them a short distance in the air as a drill can solve this predicament and turn your squad into gold-glove outfielders.

The Bucket Drill for Grounders

Another fielding fundamental all Little League players should master is handling the groundball. You can take several avenues to help hone their skills, but the bucket drill might be the most effective.

Place a bucket up the middle at second base and have them make two lines on each side of the bag. You will hit choppers through the infield, giving each side a chance to field the grounder and toss it into the bucket before moving to the opposite side.

Perfecting the Relay Throw

An underrated aspect of elite defense is perfecting the relay throw. Some coaches focus so much on throwing strength that they lose sight of fundamentals. You don’t need a rocket arm in the outfield to consistently throw out runners when you hit the cut-off man.

With your full team at every position and a baserunner on the bag, drive a ball into the gap and watch the action play out. Observe how everyone reacts and instruct them where to throw the ball. The second baseman should go halfway between the center and right fielder, while the shortstop should set up halfway from the left and centerfielder. The team’s defense will drastically improve when the relay throw becomes second nature.

Double-Tee for Leveling a Swing

The double-tee drill is one of the finest baseball-hitting workouts for young players to learn proper swing mechanics. This training exercise helps hitters make solid and consistent contact with the baseball, giving them a power stroke regardless of how heavy and powerful their bat is.

Take two tees and place one a foot behind the other. The idea is to put a level swing on the tee with the ball. If they swing with an uppercut or downward, they will strike the second tee behind it. A level swing that doesn’t graze the second tee produces a line drive, which is the result that pleases all coaches.

Incorporating these Little League drills that help improve a team will pay dividends as the season progresses. Fundamental baseball is the key to winning at these earlier levels.

High school football is huge in many communities across the country, but it hits differently in Texas. It’s safe to say that Texas high school football games draw as many fans as some college football games. A handful of NFL talents got their start in the Lone Star State, proving to be the most legendary high school football players from Texas.

John Randle

There were very few players as intimidating as John Randle in the NFL. By covering his face in eye black like a wrestler, Randle was a dominant force for the Minnesota Vikings, eventually earning Hall of Fame honors. Although he was an elite interior defensive lineman as a professional, Randle didn’t receive the recognition as a high school player in Texas.

Due to his smaller size and inconsistent academic history, Randle had to begin at Trinity Valley Community College. After two years, Randle received a scholarship from Texas A&I Kingsville, accumulating 34 sacks and two conference titles in his two seasons.

Adrian Peterson

Adrian Peterson is the subject of a few NFL fun facts, such as the single-game rushing record of 296 yards and becoming the last non-quarterback to win the MVP award in 2013 after surpassing the illustrious 2,000-yard mark. But those numbers look pedestrian compared to his high school totals. The fifth all-time leading rusher was a three-sport superstar at Palestine High School, achieving great acclaim in track, basketball, and on the gridiron.

In his junior year, Peterson had 2,051 yards and 22 touchdowns, averaging an astonishing 8.3 yards per carry. Peterson didn’t suffer from senioritis because the numbers in his swan song were an unfathomable 2,960 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 11.7 yards per carry.

LaDainian Tomlinson

LaDainian Tomlinson will forever be a fantasy football legend for his 2006 campaign that saw him eclipse 2,300 yards from scrimmage and an NFL record of 31 scores. But he began his football career at University High School in Waco. Like Peterson, LT was an all-star athlete in various sports, including track, baseball, and basketball. Yet, nothing holds a candle to what he did on the football field.

In his final year, Tomlinson had 2,554 yards and reached paydirt 39 times. LT could have gone to any school in the country, but he settled on going to TCU, elevating their program from a laughingstock to a good squad.

Forrest Gregg

Unfortunately, football statistics weren’t prominent in the 1950s, so there’s no numerical evidence of Forrest Gregg’s greatness. However, we have tales from the past that encompass how dominating the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame lineman was at Sulphur Springs. The best evidence we can offer is that Gregg’s opponents all had the same game plan of running away from him.

Drew Brees

If you look at the passing records in any NFL record book, you’ll find Brees’ name near the top of every category. Therefore, it makes sense that the state-champion quarterback from Westlake would have the pick of the litter to play college football. Brees only received two offers from Purdue and Kentucky because he was smaller than typical quarterbacks. Brees ultimately settled on the Boilermakers, becoming their most decorated signal caller.

The most legendary high school football players from Texas range in positions and eras. The one thing they do have in common is that they were some of the best to lace up their cleats and strut their stuff underneath the Friday night lights.

Porta-potties are not everyone’s favorite place in the world. There is no secret there. Because of their location, function, and frequent usage, people tend to give them the stink eye. It’s all perfectly understandable, but not permanent. Portable bathrooms don’t need to have a stigma associated with them. Here are some tips to make porta-potties more appealing.

Invite People In

It always feels better to entire a space that’s welcoming. No one wants to go inside an area that promises a bad time. Welcome mats don’t just belong in front of residential homes; you can place one in front of the portable restroom section.

Because it’s a bit unusual to see a welcome mat by porta-potties, it might quip people’s interest. Now you’ve opened the door for a nice surprise inside, and you’ve already made the experience a little bit more tolerable for them. Start thinking of ways you want to wow them with the interior now.

Provide a Structure

Placement is important for portable restrooms. You never want to put them in areas where they can potentially fall over and create more issues. Before doing anything, make sure the units are on a flat, dry surface.

Next, consider building some sort of fence around them. The fence provides more security for the porta-potties. However, if you are hosting an event that already provides a fence, save yourself the trouble and set up the unit there.

Keep It Clean

No one wants to enter a smelly portable restroom. That’s part of the reason why they get such a bad reputation. If you want to debunk this, the answer is simple: Keep the porta-potty clean. It’s as easy as that!

Control the odor of porta-potties by continuously maintaining and cleaning them. Stepping inside a clean portable restroom will surely shock people. They already have preconceived notions, and proving otherwise certainly makes portable restrooms more appealing.

Add Some Lights

Because they are not like standard restrooms, they have no light switches on the inside. Using the bathroom in a poorly lit area is not fun and can be uncomfortable. Make it easier for patrons by adding a couple of light fixtures in the area.

With proper lighting around and inside, people can see what’s lurking and hiding out. It also improves the safety of everyone using the units. They will identify spills or messes in the porta-potties and avoid them for their benefit.

Porta-potties might not be everyone’s best friend, but they don’t need to be their worst enemy either. Work on making them more appealing and reverse the status quo surrounding the contraptions.

For many Texans, fall is the best season of the year. After swelteringly hot summers, it’s great to welcome cool, crisp weather and spend time outdoors. Explore the top fall activities to do with your Jeep.

Go on a Scenic Drive

No doubt about it, fall is beautiful. While New England lays claim to some of the most iconic leaf-viewing sites in the country, Texas has its fair share of beautiful scenery to enjoy. Check out the Pineywoods Autumn Trail that loops for 145 miles between Athens and Palestine. There will be plenty of color-changing deciduous trees to take in.

Texas is a huge state, so there are many other scenic places to visit. The hill country is a favorite for people who enjoy seeing natural wonders any time of year. In the fall, visit places like Lost Maples State Natural Area, located just a couple of hours northwest of San Antonio.

For something a bit different from the usual fall scenery, visit West Texas—the temperatures at popular places like Big Bend National Park are lower at this time of year. And while you won’t see fall foliage like in other parts of the state, the brilliant autumnal hues of the land itself will charm you.

Join an Off-Road Group

If you’d like to go off the beaten path, you can off-road. And if you’d like to largely eliminate the stress of off-roading without sacrificing the fun, join an off-roading group.

You’ll find welcoming groups of Jeep enthusiasts that make off-roading exciting. Being part of a community of off-roaders will help you develop your skills more efficiently than you would on your own, too.

Check out the rules of the group before you head off for any excursions; community guidelines will help you prepare for your trip. And as the days grow shorter in the fall, it’s prudent to invest in accessories that improve your visibility while off-roading.

Tailgate

Another top fall activity to do with your Jeep is participating in a tailgate party. Have a blast this football season by tailgating in your Jeep before the big game. Like any great get-together, you’ll need food and beverages, utensils, and comfy chairs.

Modifications to your Jeep can improve your tailgate experience. Installing a cargo carrier makes it more convenient for carrying items like your grill, chairs, and cooler. And accessories like a folding rear tailgate table give you more surface area for preparing food.