Okay, I know this is a bit "irreverent", but I thought it might set the tone for this post:)  One of the issues that I have been concerned with in learning and making emergency preparations is in the area of hygiene.  In particular...what do you do with human waste?  Well, I have learned a great deal and have different options depending upon where we happen to be. 

Let me just say that there is a family recreation property....that is very popular.  It is a rare week when someone is not there.  Knowing that, the issue of "the potty" is a significant one.  

What a view huh?  Yes, it is the little out-house.

What lies behind that door?  Let's find out!

This is the Excel Composting Toilet by Sun-Mar.  If you have never been exposed to this before, let me show you how it works.

Certainly, you have a toilet seat. See large opening?  It is part of a drum.  The opening is where.....everything goes.

This container holds Peat Moss with a 1 cup measuring cup.  If you only go "#1", you address it, clean yourself with toilet paper (and we toss the paper into a trash container).  However, if you go "#2", this is what needs to happen.  

Get a cup of Peat Moss and poor it in.

Then, just under the toilet set you pull a handle out and rotate the drum until you see the opening again.  Replace the handle back into the unit.

It may interest you to know that a ventilation pipe runs from the top of the device to the ceiling....

And up through the roof.  Now, you may ask what the 'aroma' is like. Usually, there isn't a big issue, which was a surprise to me.  However, if it gets very hot, you can have an order issue....and some flies.  That is why there is a door and additional windows (with screens)  inside to help with ventilation.

And....the first photo on this post is of a picture that actually hangs in our little 'privy'.  It keeps things 'light' when you are doing your business.  It is certainly something to take into consideration.  It may be worth saving your pennies for!