Over the last month or two I noticed some weeds growing in my front lawn. My lease requires me to take care of the lawn, which is usually a relatively easy task that doesn't take much time. A couple of weeks ago I decided to finally tear out the weeds. I grabbed my gardening gloves and went to town. After 5 or 10 minutes I glanced at the weeds I was pulling out and was reminded of the old phrase "leaves of three, let it be." I was pulling out poison ivy plants!

I was preparing to go out of town on a trip in two days and the last thing I wanted was poison ivy rashes. I immediately entered my house and went to the internet for advice. I followed the advice and took the following steps:

1. Swab all exposed areas with alcohol
2. Take a COLD shower and rinse thoroughly.
3. Wash all clothing including shoes

After following these steps I also headed to the store in search of "Tecnu," a product which is supposed to work miracles if applied early enough. I followed the instructions and thoroughly rubbed the tecnu into my skin. I also washed my clothes a second time just to be sure they were safe.

I can say with great success that two weeks later I have not had any kind of outbreak. My advice is to stay out of your garden!!! I never even considered the idea that poison ivy would be freely growing in my yard. All plants are evil and should be avoided at all costs. If you absolutely must go near those evil little things I highly recommend having a bottle of tecnu on hand in your house. I also recommend you actually look at the plants before you touch them.